The Setting as a Character
In “You Lied First,” the backdrop of Oman plays a significant role, intentionally chosen by the author, Kantaria, for its stark contrasts and its rarity in contemporary UK fiction. The quietness of the desert becomes especially critical at a moment of high tension. As Kantaria describes, “When my characters are forced to make their fraught decision, they are in the middle of the desert, nearly two hundred miles from anywhere. They’re alone with no witnesses, and the sun’s blazing down on them, intensifying everything.” This oppressive environment emphasizes the weight of their choices, transforming the landscape into an unyielding adversary.
Exploring Moral Complexities
At its heart, “You Lied First” delves into profound moral dilemmas that challenge the characters when no one is watching. Kantaria poses the question: “How far would you go to protect your family? Would that change if there were no witnesses? Would you break the law if you believed you wouldn’t be discovered?” These questions push the boundaries of loyalty and ethics, inviting readers to reflect on their own values.
Trust is an ever-present tension throughout the narrative. Kantaria questions how well we truly know those around us. She asks, “Is the face they show you ever the truth? Is a family ever perfect?” The mounting pressure leads to fractures in relationships, showcasing how intense situations can unravel even the strongest of friendships. “I was also interested in taking a group of friends and examining how those relationships change when subjected to extreme stress,” she explains.
The Influence of Dubai
Kantaria attributes her ambition to write to the vibrant atmosphere of the UAE, particularly Dubai. She shares, “Living in the UAE gave me the confidence to give creative writing a try. There is an optimism in Dubai, a ‘can-do’ attitude that supports people wanting to explore new avenues.” This environment not only impacts her writing but also enriches her experiences. “We are a sum of our experiences — a sum of the opportunities that come our way, amazing people we meet from all over the world, and the stories we exchange over coffee. All of that feeds into the creative well.”
She notes how the growing literary community, facilitated by initiatives like the Emirates Literature Foundation, has been pivotal for budding writers in the region. Kantaria serves as a resident mentor for the ELF Seddiqi First Chapter Fellowship, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for emerging storytellers.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
The turning point for Kantaria’s writing career came unexpectedly. After stepping away from her corporate job to focus on raising her children, she hesitated to embark on writing a novel, often distracting herself with research on the supposedly daunting publishing landscape. Fate intervened when the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature announced the Montegrappa Writing Competition, which would feature an agent from London as a judge.
With nothing to lose, she entered the competition without any expectations and ended up winning. The agent, Luigi Bonomi, not only became her literary agent but also helped her secure a three-book deal with HarperCollins. “That day, when I entered the Montegrappa Writing Competition, truly marked the beginning of my journey as an author,” she says.
The Reality of the Creative Process
Despite her accomplishments, Kantaria is quick to dispel the myth that the creative process is straightforward or linear. “A common misconception about psychological thrillers is that the process is orderly,” she remarks. “Often, I find myself halfway through a meticulously plotted novel only to realize a better idea has emerged, prompting me to revisit and revise my earlier work.”
She emphasizes that substantial creative work occurs away from the desk. “Writing a book is primarily about typing out a story, but much of the real work involves contemplation. Since ideas often strike while I’m engaged in everyday activities—whether I’m driving the kids to school or strolling through a mall—those moments can be surprisingly productive.”
Like her novels, Kantaria’s career thrives on navigating tension and risk, affirming the importance of trusting one’s instincts in the face of uncertainty. As “You Lied First” reveals, it’s frequently the quiet choices that illuminate our true selves.
