There are few authors whose names instantly spark nostalgia, excitement, and admiration quite like Veronica Roth.
Best known for her groundbreaking Divergent series, Roth continues to captivate readers with worlds that blur the lines between dystopian intensity and emotional depth. During New York Comic Con 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with her to discuss her newest upcoming 2026 book release, "Seek the Traitor’s Son," a sweeping romantic dystopian fantasy filled with themes of prophecy, power, and destiny colliding.
The conversation ranged from reflections on her early days as a debut author to the energy of connecting with fans at NYCC and, of course, the thrill of introducing readers to her fierce new heroine, Elegy Ahn. Here’s our exclusive Q&A with the #1 New York Times bestselling author.
The Divergent series pretty much started it all for you. I even taught the first novel on the first year that I became an educator at Boca Raton High school. How does it feel looking back now, especially with the anniversary edition on the horizon?
It’s wild, honestly. Divergent feels like it belongs to another version of me, but it also changed my life in every possible way. That first book gave me my career, introduced me to my readers, and its popularity was something that I could have never imagined at the time, and I so thankful to see others enjoying my story and characters.
The upcoming special edition will give readers a chance to revisit that story and will also celebrate its release and anniversary.
You’ve been part of New York Comic Con before. What makes this event so special for you as both an author and a fan of literature?
Comic Con is one of my favorite events because it’s pure connection.
You’re surrounded by people who love stories, and that energy is contagious. Being on panels, meeting readers, and getting to share space with other creators reminds me why I write. It’s a place where people get excited about what’s coming next, and it’s an incredible feeling to see others enjoy this event and to see them connect with those who share their same interests.
Speaking of what’s next, Seek the Traitor’s Son feels like a new chapter when it comes to your storytelling. What inspired this world and its central prophecy?
"Seek the Traitor’s Son" started with the idea of two people who are told they’re destined to destroy each other, and what happens when love and loyalty complicate that prophecy.
I wanted to explore how belief shapes one’s destiny, and what happens when someone decides to fight against their own to try to achieve what they truly want.
Elegy Ahn seems like such a powerful character. She is loyal, fierce, and emotionally layered. What makes her stand out to you as a heroine?
Elegy is driven by love for her people, but she’s also human and has many fears and doubts. Especially since she’s not the chosen one, but someone who earns her strength through sacrifice.
I think readers will relate to her struggle between doing what’s expected of her and following her own heart. She’s flawed, which makes her real and vulnerable. She’s determined to make her own choices.
Without spoiling too much, what can readers expect from "Seek the Traitor’s Son?"
Expect intensity, romance, and questions that don’t have easy answers.
It’s about two people on opposite sides of a war, bound by destiny but trying to break free of it. So, I’m beyond excited for readers to dive in, and it’s a story that I loved to write.
Seek the Traitor’s Son will be releasing on May 12, 2026. For more information, visit https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250347916/seekthetraitorsson/.
For more about Veronica Roth and her books, visit https://veronicarothbooks.com.
