Vampires will never go out of style. That is something that Jay Kristoff is very clear about. For this reason, the Australian writer explains to La Vanguardia that “I will always bet on them. Not just because of taste, but because these creatures allow us to explore many aspects of humanity." The author has already given the genre a twist with the Nevernight saga, which has become a publishing phenomenon, and now he returns to bookstores with The Vampire Empire (Nocturna editions), the first installment of his new trilogy.
This installment, which in its original version in English was included in the lists of best books of 2021 on platforms such as Amazon and in prestigious bookstore chains such as Barnes
“I think the book reflects well how ruthless good can become in the face of evil. When you face a monster you have to be careful if you don't want to become another and know how far you are willing to go. This is a reflection that I try to question almost daily in my daily life. That's why I think I tend to create characters that are antiheroes. I don't believe in the typical luminous being that appears in every epic fantasy. I am interested in characters who, although they may be good people deep down, are immersed in terrible situations and, therefore, end up being forced to do bad things. I was always in favor of ambiguity and moving between the greys”.
It is Kristoff's most extensive work to date, “not only in terms of characters but also in terms of complexity. I think that five years ago he could not have written something like that. He has certainly put my skills as an author to the test but I think he has paid off.” Of course, he admits, it is inevitable that this satisfaction generates a certain pressure when I write something new, but I do not let that affect me. When I get in front of the desk I just try to do my best. And that's what he, he claims, is doing during his European tour. In fact, he anticipates, he has already finished the second book in this new series, which is currently in the process of proofreading. "I would dare to say that I know how everything will end, but I prefer to wait for the writing process, because sometimes the story can take turns and I am the first surprised."
Another thing that Kristoff acknowledges that leaves him speechless is the fanart that has been created regarding his works. In fact, he says that his studio has the walls full of drawings that his followers have sent him over the years. And precisely one of those creators is Bon Orthwick, who has been in charge of the illustrations for his new book. “She is a great illustrator. I admire her a lot and it seemed like a nice way to close the circle. On the other hand, I know that in books dedicated to adults it is not so common for there to be images, what happens is that I always set out to test the limits of the book in terms of object”.
Regarding the future, Kristoff explains that he is focused on finishing the trilogy and acknowledges that he already has a new project in mind, "most likely another trilogy." However, he advances, "I have no intention of writing more about Nuncanoche, no matter how much the fans ask for it. The second parts were never good and, although sometimes I have been tempted, I think it would be a mistake since I am not the same person and I don't think I could improve the saga".
