Picture an American storyteller who whisked readers to the jungles of India with shape-shifting tigers and epic romance—meet Colleen Houck! A New York Times Bestselling author, Houck blends young adult fantasy with vibrant mythology, crafting tales that pulse with adventure and heart. Her journey from sign language interpreter to beloved novelist is as captivating as her stories.
The Making of Colleen Houck
Born on October 3, 1969, in Tucson, Arizona, Colleen Houck grew up with a love for books, devouring action, adventure, science fiction, and romance. After studying at the University of Arizona, she spent 17 years as a nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter, a career rooted in connection and communication. Inspired by authors like J.K. Rowling and Stephenie Meyer, Houck made a bold leap in her 40s, trading interpreting for writing. Her debut, Tiger’s Curse, was self-published in 2009, quickly climbing Amazon’s eBook bestseller list and catching the eye of Sterling Publishers.
Colleen Houck’s Unforgettable Stories
Houck’s signature work, The Tiger Saga, spans five novels—starting with Tiger’s Curse (2011) and concluding with Tiger’s Dream (2018). The series follows Kelsey Hayes, a teen tasked with breaking a 300-year-old Indian curse alongside Ren and Kishan, two princes trapped as tigers. Infused with Hindu mythology, the saga dazzles with lush settings, heart-pounding quests, and a love triangle that keeps readers guessing. Her Reawakened series, beginning in 2015, dives into Egyptian mythology, where teen Lilliana Young aids a resurrected prince to save the world. Houck’s writing is vivid and immersive, weaving cultural richness with themes of loyalty, destiny, and romance. Her latest, Tiger’s Tale (2024), reimagines the saga with twin sisters in a magical Kievian Empire, showcasing her knack for reinventing familiar worlds.
Houck’s style is a tapestry of vivid imagery and emotional depth, drawing readers into exotic locales and complex relationships. While some critique her prose as overly detailed, fans adore the escapism and cultural authenticity, making her a staple in YA fantasy romance.
Why Colleen Houck Matters
Colleen Houck has carved a niche in young adult literature by bringing underrepresented mythologies—Indian and Egyptian—to the forefront. Her books, translated globally and collected by libraries, resonate with teens and adults craving adventure and romance. The Tiger Saga’s success, with over 500,000 copies in print and Paramount Pictures once eyeing a film adaptation, underscores her influence. Houck’s transition from interpreter to author inspires aspiring writers, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream. Her stories empower readers to embrace courage and explore diverse cultures.
- Born: October 3, 1969, Tucson, Arizona
- Key Works: The Tiger Saga, Reawakened series, Tiger’s Tale
- Awards: Parents’ Choice Award winner
- Fun Fact: Lives in Salem, Oregon, with a collection of plush tigers
Ready for a thrilling escape? Snag Tiger’s Curse and dive into Colleen Houck’s spellbinding world of myth and romance!