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YA Book Prize shortlist:Catherine Doyle & Katherine Webber talk about Twin Crowns
Caroline CarpenterCaroline is deputy features editor at The Bookseller and chair of the YA Book Prize, as well as being a co-host of children's book radio ...more
Catherine Doyle and Katherine Webber answer our questions about their novel Twin Crowns (Electric Monkey),a novel about estranged twin sisters, a kingdom and one crown, which has been shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2023.
Caroline is deputy features editor at The Bookseller and chair of the YA Book Prize, as well as being a co-host of children's book radio ...more
How would you describe your book to someone who hasn’t read it?
Twin Crowns is an epic romantic fantasy about twin sisters, separated at birth. Rose Valhart has been raised as a princess in Anadawn Palace, and has no idea that she has a sister. Meanwhile, Wren Greenrock has grown up in the secret witch settlement of Ortha, and has been waiting her entire life to steal her sister’s life. It’s the ultimate twin switch, full of magic, adventure and romance!
What inspired the story?
Twin Crowns was inspired by our shared love of romantic comedies, YA fantasy and the epic power of sisterhood. In real life, we’re best friends and sisters-in-law, which added a fun dimension to writing Twin Crowns!
Which character in the book is your favourite, and why?
Catherine: Of course I can’t pick a favourite twin, but I will happily say that I love Elske the wolf.
Katherine: I love both twins equally, and I adore Shen Lo.
What does being on this year’s YA Book Prize shortlist mean to you?
We’re so honoured to be shortlisted for this year’s YA Book Prize. It is such a career milestone and means so much to be selected and be in such wonderful company with the rest of the shortlist. There is so much excellent YA being published right now so we are especially thrilled to have this honour.
What’s the best thing about writing for young adults?
Writing for teenagers is so rewarding—they make the best readers! They are passionate and engaged and voracious. YA is always pushing boundaries and is such an exciting place to be writing and reading.
What was your favourite book as a teenager?
Katherine: I loved anything by Tamora Pierce, and "Gossip Girl"!
Catherine: I loved anything by Meg Cabot and Cate Tiernan!
What’s your top writing tip?
Read as much as you can, and write the story that you can’t stop thinking about!
What do you need around you when you’re writing?
Lots of coffee, candles and snacks!
What songs would be on a playlist for your book?
"Wildest Dreams" by Taylor Swift, "Kings and Queens" by Ava Max and "You Should See Me In a Crown" by Billie Eilish.
Which book, film or TV show would you recommend to someone who enjoyed your book?
"The Princess Bride"!
