Sue Lynn Tan
Author Interview - Sue Lynn Tan
Author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess
Daughter of the Moon Goddess is a fantasy inspired by the legend of Chang'e, the Chinese moon goddess — in which a young woman's quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm, in this sweeping adventure of immortals, magic and love.
Author I draw inspiration from: Madeline Miller - Circe swept me away with its incredible story and writing. Holly Black is another favorite of mine, along with Stephanie Garber, S.A. Chakraborty and Shelley Parker-Chan.
Favorite place to read a book: At home, whether on the sofa or in my bed.
Book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with: Nahri from The City of Brass, by S.A. Chakraborty. I have every confidence that she’d get us out or convince someone to.
The moment I knew I wanted to become an author: I've always loved writing ever since I was a child, and the stories I wrote even then were of fantasy lands and magic. It did take me a while to write my first full manuscript—and since then, I’ve never looked back.
Hardback, paperback, ebook or audiobook: I love the feel of paper in my hands, but I like ebooks for night reading.
The last book I read: The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri—a fantasy inspired by Indian epics and history. It was a stunning read, the story, characters, and writing.
Pen & paper or computer: Computer, but writing things down helps me work through plot.
Book character I think I’d be best friends with: Jude Duarte from The Cruel Prince by Holly Black. I love her strength, intelligence, relationships, and ambition—and how fearlessly she forges her own path forward. Would not mind visiting her in the faerie realm either.
If I weren’t an author, I’d be a: Food blogger. I'd still get to write, and also take pictures of food which I'd get to eat - all in the name of work.
Favorite decade in fashion history: I don't know a lot about fashion history, but I love Chinese hanfu - the flowing layers of robes and sashes, the ornaments of jade and silk.
Place I’d most like to travel: Apart from my home in Malaysia, it would be New York and London. It would be such a dream to see my book in the stores, and to meet some of the wonderful people I've been working with, who helped make this happen.
My signature drink: Bubble tea helps get me through deadlines, and a glass of wine - for both the really good and bad days.
Favorite artist: Kuri Huang. I love her incredible artwork, the intricate details and vivid colors—and I’m so thrilled that she illustrated the book cover.
Number one on my bucket list: It used to be having a book published. Sometimes I still can't believe it's real.
Find more from the author:
Instagram @SuelynnTan
Twitter @SuelynnTan
www.suelynntan.com
Author Bio: Sue Lynn Tan writes fantasy novels inspired by the myths and legends she fell in love with as a child. Born in Malaysia, she studied in London and France, before settling in Hong Kong with her family. Her debut fantasy Daughter of the Moon Goddess is inspired by the legend of Chang'e, the Chinese moon goddess.