Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Ari Gray

Book Title: Shadow in the Ward

Released:  01/13/24

Genre:  Sci-Fi/Medical Thriller

Interview by Heather L. Barksdale

What inspired you to write “Shadow in the Ward”?

Gray: The writing process was therapeutic. I approached the novel as a journal, capturing the real-life dramas that unfolded before me in the emergency department. I wanted to create a story that honored healthcare professionals on the front lines, highlighting their dedication, sacrifices, frustrations, and the pressures they face. The core theme of the novel challenges the unrealistic expectations placed on them, and it explores how the pursuit of perfection is an unattainable and flawed paradigm - sometimes leading to unintended consequences. Throughout the book, I tried to give a voice to the often-overlooked struggles of these important workers, emphasizing that their challenges and triumphs deserve recognition and understanding.

How did you come up with the names of your main characters?

Gray: It was a collaborative effort between my wife and me. We looked for names that not only fit the personalities and backgrounds of the characters but also subtly hinted at their roles and journeys. This was intended to enhance the reader's engagement and connection with the story, making the characters' experiences more vivid and impactful.

Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?

Gray: During the writing process, my goal was to remain true to myself and the realities of the medical world. In order to preserve the authenticity and credibility of the hospital setting depicted in the book, it was crucial to use descriptions and terminology that were as accurate as possible. My hope is that non-medical readers will be able to follow the plot and feel the intensity of the scenarios presented, while healthcare professionals and computer scientists will have a deeper level of appreciation for the attention to detail. Ultimately, I wanted to bridge between general interest and professional accuracy, offering a story that was both informative and compelling.

If "Shadow in the Ward" was adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?

Gray:  Cilian Murphy as Seth, Joe Keery as Cody, Haley Lu Richardson as Daria, and Liam Cunningham as Dr. Winter.

When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?

Gray: Whenever I hit a wall or encountered writer's block, I found it helpful to take a step back. During these breaks, I would think about the broader vision and trajectory, which helped me navigate the complexities of the story. It took about two years to fully articulate the depth of the concepts I wanted to share.

Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?

Gray: If your passionate about an idea, pursue it wholeheartedly. Writing is a deeply personal journey. While it’s helpful to seek feedback from others, it's also important to maintain confidence in your own vision. The essence of your novel should always align with your original intent. Balancing constructive criticism with your own creative instincts can be the key to writing a great story.

What is your favorite genre, book, and/or author?

Gray: As a fan of hard science fiction, I loved The Martian and Project Hail Mary. Weir has a talent for giving plausible explanations for the extraordinary, and he turns each story into an immersive and thought-provoking journey. His novels not only entertain but also educate, making them standout examples of the genre that inspire curiosity about what might be technologically achievable.

What are you working on next?

Gray: I’m brainstorming ideas for a novel about the potential impacts of advanced technology on college sports, focusing on the ethical, social, and psychological ramifications.

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