Q&A: Michelle Wong, Author of ‘House of the Beast’
We chat with author Michelle Wong about House of the Beast, which follows a young woman who strikes a deal with a mischievous and alluring god to seek revenge on her aristocratic family—featuring illustrations throughout by the author.
Hi, Michelle! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Hello! I’m an author and illustrator from Hong Kong who loves video games and horror. I have a pet chinchilla named Santa Chin, and I am a Scorpio.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
When I was about 10 or 11 years old. I used to try and draft entire epic fantasy novels by hand, though I never got past chapter 3. This was coincidentally when I discovered my love for new notebooks.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: ‘I Want A Pony’ by Jeanne Betancourt.
- The one that made you want to become an author: ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ by Diana Wynne Jones.
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: Right now, ‘Death in the Spires’ by KJ Charles.
Your latest novel, House of the Beast, is out August 5th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Dark fantasy allegory for depression.
What can readers expect?
I’ve heard friends describe this as a book for fans of Fromsoft games, Fullmetal Alchemist, and gothic manga—all of which I happen to be! There are sword fights, vengeful characters, blood and violence, eldritch monsters, and a crazy bishonen love interest.
Where did the inspiration for House of the Beast come from?
I love stories where magic comes at a price, and daydreaming about that led to the idea of noble families being bound to elder gods, where each family has to sacrifice something in exchange for their power.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
My absolute favorite moment is a big spoiler! But my second favorite is the bath scene. I had that image in my head for a long time, and getting to write it felt so rewarding. I was also pleasantly surprised by Sevelie, who in early drafts was another of Alma’s cousins but became such a different and important character.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
Absolutely. My first edit letter was 19 pages long! I was a comic book artist, so I was used to writing scripts and describing things only visually. My editors did a lot of work pointing out where the prose in HOUSE OF THE BEAST could be heftier and more immersive. I also started reading books with the intention to learn craft. I still have a long way to go!
What’s next for you?
I have a graphic novel from First Second in the works named TERMINAL HOPE. And a lot more I can’t talk about yet!
Lastly, what books have you enjoyed reading this year? Are there any you’re looking forward to picking up?
I really enjoyed ‘Sorcery and Small Magics’ by Maiga Doocy, and recently I have been excited to pick up ‘Tusk Love’ by Thea Guanzon!
