We chat with New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Lim about her latest release Her Radiant Curse, which is a tale of two sisters—one as beautiful as the other is monstrous—who must fight to save each other when a betrothal contest gone wrong unleashes an evil that could sever their bond forever.
Hi, Elizabeth! Welcome back! How have you been since we last spoke in 2021?
I’ve been great, thank you! Added another baby to my family, as well as a couple of books!
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
I’ve loved writing from an early age, but I never thought I was good enough at it to become an author. It was more of a hobby for me – I wrote a lot of fanfiction growing up, and posted a few stories online. I didn’t seriously consider trying to get published until after I graduated from college.
Your next novel, Her Radiant Curse, is out now! If you could describe it in five words, what would they be?
Beauty & Beast as sisters.
You’re known for writing beautiful fantasy tales, but if you were to dabble in another genre, what would you pick?
I’d love to try historical fiction one day.
Do you have to do much research for your books, or are these stories ones you’ve grown up with?
I definitely do research for my books, but I try to write the first draft of each story before doing any, so that I can rely on my memory of the stories I grew up with and keep the core of my story close to the heart.
In all of your books, who is your favourite character, and why?
Channi, because there’s so many layers to her personality and she goes through the greatest character change. She’s so tough and brutal and capable, yet underneath it all, she has this desperate desire to be part of a family and be loved for who she is. I just want to hug her!
In the acknowledgements for Her Radiant Curse, you mention that you started writing it before Six Crimson Cranes, what made you switch focus?
Once I discovered that Her Radiant Curse was really a prequel story, I decided that it’d be more prudent to write Six Crimson Cranes first—it’d be an easier sell to my publisher. It was very tough to put the story aside, but I’m glad I did!
Can you tell us if you have anything upcoming in the works?
I’m working on another book in the universe. This one’s also got Beauty and the Beast vibes, but with dragons.
Do you have any advice for any budding writers out there?
Read as much as you can, but listen too. A good ear can improve one’s writing immeasurably. Give yourself goals, not a timeline. Don’t let rejections get you down. Persistence is key.
Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for our readers?
I’m very excited for What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez and Darker by Four by June Tan!
