Today, I’m joined by writer Ausma Zehanat Khan to discuss how she explores the scope and horror of nationalism, Islamophobia, and racism in page-turner detective novels. As a Muslim woman and former immigration and human rights lawyer, Ausma draws on her professional and personal experiences to craft enticing storylines around topics like criminal justice reform and race relations. In our conversation, we unpack themes and details of her most recent book, Blackwater Falls, and Ausma provides insight into what inspired her to pursue this story. We also touch on some of Ausma’s earlier work, including her decade-long research on The Balkan Wars that informed her debut novel, The Unquiet Dead. Ausma has a unique perspective on American politics as a Canadian living in rural Colorado. She sees first-hand the impact of systemic racism and xenophobia on BIPOC communities in her area. Set in a similar town to where Ausma currently lives, Blackwater Falls illuminates the nuances of how ultra-nationalist movements gain traction and eventually erase multiculturalism. Through the heavy topics, Ausma also artfully weaves in elements of romance, family dynamics, and small town drama. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered: ● What sparked Ausma’s investigation on military intervention and war crimes of The Balkan Wars ● Using crime fiction as a way to communicate about systemic injustices ● The identity challenges that many BIPOC law enforcement officers face ● Ausma’s thought process behind the three main power structures in Blackwater Falls ● The signs and consequences of ‘incrementalism’ in American politics Guest Info: ● Ausma's Website ● Ausma's Instagram ● Ausma's Facebook ● Ausma's Twitter Follow Me: ● My Instagram ● My LinkedIn ● My Twitter ● Art Heals All Wounds Website ● Art Heals All Wounds Instagram ● Art Heals All Wounds Twitter ● Art Heals All Wounds Facebook ● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter