Colleen Houck is the New York Times Bestselling author of the Tiger’s Curse series. Read our interview below to learn some interesting facts about the author, including how she initially self published the first two books in her series.
Synopsis for Tiger’s Curse:
The last thing teenager Kelsey Hayes thought she’d be doing over the summer was meeting Ren, a mysterious white tiger and cursed Indian prince! When she learns she alone can break the Tiger’s curse, Kelsey’s life is turned upside-down. The unlikely duo journeys halfway around the world to piece together an Indian prophecy, find a way to free the man trapped by a centuries-old spell, and discover the path to their true destiny.
Tell us 5 random facts about yourself?
Sure…I am a sign language interpreter, the oldest of seven children, I love chocolate, I’ve never been on a cruise, and Halloween is my favorite holiday.
Tell us a little bit about your process and how you became a writer.
I started writing after reading about J.K Rowling and Stephenie Meyer. They were two women that wrote books I fell in love with and I was inspired by their publishing stories. Both of them were just moms who got up one day and wrote a book and I thought, “If they can do it, then why not me?” That was the day the Tiger Series was born. I self-published my first two books and was discovered by an agent and an editor. Since then my books have been sold to many other countries, were published in America traditionally, and have been optioned for film.
Why do you feel you had to tell this story?
I have always loved the story of Beauty and the Beast, so when I set out to write my own book, I chose that idea for a theme. The idea of redemption and sacrifice appealed to me and I wanted to write a romance/adventure that could be read by people of all ages. Ultimately, I wrote a story that I’d like to be in myself.
What was your favorite chapter/scene to write and why?
I think one of my favorite scenes is when Ren fights Li for Kelsey. I’ve always loved the romantic notion of two knights jousting over a girl and this is a modern take on that. It’s just plain fun to write and envision.
What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?
The toughest criticisms for me are that I got the mythology all wrong and that I have no right as a Caucasian woman to write about other cultures. At the same time, I have a lot of fans from other countries who thank me for embracing other cultures. My goal has always been to be respectful and as accurate as possible but at the end of the day it is a fantasy book so I do use creative license.
Where’s your favorite place to write?
At my home computer in my bedroom office. I have a window with a great view of Oregon pine forest. It’s very inspiring.
What character do you relate most to?
Kelsey. We are a lot alike. We’ve share the worst date ever, an abiding love of all things chocolate, and both of us prefer wearing tennis shoes.
If you could have lunch with one of your characters who would it be and why?
I would love to chat with Mr. Kadam. He is a character that fascinates me. I’d love to hear all his stories and ask questions about the amazing life he’s had.
What is easier to write: The first line or the last line?
First line. Last line is very emotional for me.
What one YA novel do you wish you had when you were a teen?
The Twilight Series. I would have been a crazy fan and bought every tee shirt, game, and piece of jewelry.
Do you have things you need in order to write ie. coffee, cupcakes, music?
I always light a scented candle and I have a mini fridge standing by with snacks and drinks.
What are you working on now?
Tiger’s Destiny. Book four in the Tiger’s Curse Series.
Places to find Colleen:
twitter- @ColleenHouck
Trailer for Tiger’s Curse
