Featured Interview With Rohanthi Wijewickrama
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
Hi! I’m Rohanthi Wijewickrama—but you can call me Ro (it’s easier to shout when you’re chasing after kids or a dog with a sock in his mouth). I was born and raised in the vibrant, history-rich island of Sri Lanka, where mango trees are plenty and inspiration is everywhere.
In 2010, I swapped tropical monsoons for Canadian snowstorms and now call Toronto home, where I live with my husband, two wonderfully energetic kids, and our dog—who firmly believes he runs the house (he’s not entirely wrong).
I write everything from mysterious adventures to heartwarming children’s books and the occasional romantic twist. When I’m not writing, I run Bellybees, my creative brand for kids, and speak passionately about empowering young minds and women dreamers.
Basically, if there’s a story to tell, a cause to support, or a cup of tea to sip while plotting a fictional mystery—I’m in.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I think my fascination with books began the moment I realized they could transport me to places my feet hadn’t yet touched—and let’s be honest, growing up in Sri Lanka, there was no shortage of imagination fuel. At 10 years old, I wrote my first story perched on top of a mango tree, convinced it would become a bestseller (sadly, the manuscript vanished—possibly eaten by a goat or buried under fallen leaves).
Back then, I didn’t even call it “writing”—I just thought my imaginary friends deserved dramatic plot twists and happy endings. Over time, those scribbles turned into real stories with real heart, and I realized this wasn’t just a childhood quirk. This was my passion.
Now, whether I’m writing mysteries, magical adventures, or heartwarming children’s tales, I always aim to bring that same sense of wonder, mischief, and mango-tree-level imagination to everything I create.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Oh, I’m a joyful genre-hopper—both in reading and writing! One day I’m curled up with a cozy mystery and a mug of tea, and the next, I’m racing through an espionage thriller with my heart in my throat. I’ve always had a soft spot for stories with a hint of magic and mystery—witchcraft-themed books like The Secret Circle sparked my imagination early on. And of course, I grew up devouring Nancy Drew and The Famous Five, dreaming of solving mysteries with a flashlight and a packed sandwich.
I’m equally drawn to the adrenaline of espionage tales—spies, secrets, and hidden agendas always keep me turning the page. I love stories that invite you to unravel clues, whether it’s through coded letters or ancient lockets passed down through generations.
Some of my favorite authors? Agatha Christie is my forever muse with her brilliant plotting, Kate Morton for her time-swept mysteries, and Liane Moriarty for her keen insight into the layers of human nature. I’m also endlessly inspired by authors who bring heart into children’s literature—like Oliver Jeffers and Jacqueline Woodson.
And inspiration? It’s everywhere. In the grandmother who weaves family history into bedtime stories. In the child who scribbles magical kingdoms into the corners of their notebooks. In the quiet strength of women chasing dreams between daily routines. I write for them—and because of them.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
I’m thrilled to share two very different stories that are close to my heart, each catering to a different audience but equally packed with excitement and adventure!
Agent 174: In Shadows of Deception is a fast-paced, high-stakes thriller for adult readers. It follows Ella Carter, a retired CIA agent who thought she had left her dangerous past behind. However, when a global terrorist organization threatens to unleash devastation, Ella is pulled back into a world she hoped to escape. With her unmatched skills in espionage, she’s the only one who can stop the threat. But her mission isn’t just about defeating the enemy—it’s about confronting the ghosts of her past, including old enemies and unresolved emotions. Torn between a love she once knew and a new unexpected romance, Ella’s journey is a deep dive into betrayal, conspiracies, and self-discovery. This book is for anyone who loves twists, suspense, and complex characters in a world where every decision could be her last.
On the flip side, The Summer at Great Western is a delightful adventure aimed at children. It takes readers to the magical world of Great Western, a tea plantation surrounded by forests and hidden wonders. Follow 13-year-old Ro and her big brother Dan as they spend their summer with their Uncle Sam. What starts as a fun trip quickly turns into an exciting treasure hunt, where the kids, along with their cousins, uncover the legend of a hidden treasure near a magical waterfall. Filled with riddles, runaway horses, and family mischief, this story celebrates the joys of summer, teamwork, and unforgettable memories. It’s perfect for young readers who love nature, mystery, and the simple pleasures of family adventures.
Both books were launched together, showcasing my range as a writer—one filled with thrilling, grown-up suspense and the other a heartwarming, magical journey for kids. Whether you’re looking for a gripping espionage thriller or a charming children’s adventure, these stories promise to take you on an unforgettable ride!
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