Ridhi Patnam, known as Ridhi P, is an inspiring storyteller, poet, and performer whose words bridge emotion and empowerment. From her uplifting poetry collection Soaring Beyond the Stars to her gripping novel A Game of Truth and Lies, Ridhi continues to redefine creativity with authenticity, courage, and unshakable passion.
The Literature Times: What inspired you to write A Game of Truth and Lies? Was there a particular moment or emotion that sparked the idea for this psychological thriller?
Ridhi Patnam: I was inspired by the complexity of human emotions how love, fear, and lies intertwine. The idea came to me one night when I started wondering how far people would go to hide their darkest truths.
The Literature Times: The story delves deep into fear, trust, and secrets. How did you balance emotional intensity with suspense while writing it?
Ridhi Patnam: I focused on making every emotion feel real letting the fear and trust build naturally through the characters. The suspense came on its own once their emotions started colliding.
The Literature Times: Your background as a poet is evident in your descriptive style. How did your experience with poetry influence your approach to novel writing?
Ridhi Patnam: Poetry taught me the power of emotion in every word. It helped me paint scenes with feeling, not just description so readers don’t just read the story, they feel it.
The Literature Times: A Game of Truth and Lies explores the fragility of friendship under pressure. Do you believe fear reveals or distorts a person’s true nature?
Ridhi Patnam: I think fear does both it reveals who we are deep down, but it can also twist our choices in ways we never expected.
The Literature Times: How did you develop the eerie atmosphere of the book—the sense that “every shadow is watching”?
Ridhi Patnam: I built it through small details whispers, silences, and emotions that linger after a scene ends. It’s less about what’s seen and more about what’s felt in the dark.
The Literature Times: You’ve inspired many through your poetry and performances. How does this novel reflect your personal philosophy of courage and resilience?
Ridhi Patnam: It shows that courage isn’t about being fearless it’s about facing what terrifies you and still moving forward. Every character carries that message in their own way.
The Literature Times: As someone who’s balanced a professional career with creative pursuits, what advice do you have for aspiring writers trying to do the same?
Ridhi Patnam: Make time, even when it feels impossible. Consistency matters more than hours — write a little every day, and protect your creativity like it’s your peace.
The Literature Times: What was the most challenging scene or moment to write in A Game of Truth and Lies, and why?
Ridhi Patnam: The final reveal was the hardest balancing emotion with shock took time. I wanted readers to feel the pain behind the truth, not just the twist itself.
The Literature Times: Your writing often celebrates both vulnerability and strength. How do you personally define courage in life and art?
Ridhi Patnam: For me, courage is being honest with yourself and your art. It’s allowing your truth to be seen, even when it scares you.
The Literature Times: What can readers expect next from Ridhi P — more thrillers, poetry, or perhaps a blend of both?
Ridhi Patnam: Definitely a blend of both I love mixing emotion with mystery. My next works will carry the heart of poetry with the thrill of stories that keep you guessing.
