In this episode Kelly and Alix interview one of their favorite authors, Jay Kristoff. They discuss Jay's writing process, his design experience, and what it's like co-writing a book. Jay also shares insight behind his plots and characters and what works by other authors he adores. Jay Kristoff is a #1 international, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of fantasy and science fiction. He is the winner of eight Aurealis Awards, an ABIA, has over two million books in print, and is published in over 35 countries, most of which he has never visited. He is as surprised about all of this as you are. He is 6’7" and has approximately 11,000 days to live. He does not believe in happy endings. To learn more about Jay’s books, click here. Topics Discussed: [2:05] When did you know that you wanted to be a writer? [5:18] How did working at an ad agency play a part in your books? [9:28] Do you have a say in the design of your book covers? [11:30] What was it like co-writing the Illuminae Files series with Amie Kauffman? How did you two meet? [16:40] "Plotter or Pantser" writer? [17:30] When did you know who the Nevernight narrator was going to be? [19:20] Jay and Amie's writing process; the story of when "mom and dad" fought [26:55] Fangirling over Stephen King [29:00] Jay's favorite Stephen King book of all time [36:14] Let's talk about the Nevernight footnotes, lol! [41:44] Defacing a Nevernight ARC [43:50] Elevator pitch for Empire of the Vampire [49:40] The three novels Jay studied before writing The Empire of the Vampire [54:20] Favorite scenes that Jay's ever written [1:00:12] Fans, the best part of the job [1:06:00] Three final questions Books by Jay Kristoff: Empire of the VampireAurora Cycle Nevernight ChroniclesLIFELIK3Illuminae FilesLotus War Books Mentioned: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen KingStrange the Dreamer duology by Laini TaylorSalem's Lot by Stephen KingInterview with the Vampire by Anne RiceThe Vampire Lestat by Anne Rice Blood Song by Anthony RyanDark Rise and Dark Heir by C.S. PacatHouse of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski Artists Mentioned: Bon OrthwickJason ChanKirby RosanesMicaela Alcaino Join our Lunacorns private membership group at https://litjoycrate.com/podcast-lunacorns Follow us on Instagram @litjoycrate Follow us on TikTok @litjoycrate Check out LitJoy's officially licensed Jay Kristoff Collection! Use the code PODCAST10 at litjoycrate.com/podcast for a 10% off discount! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.