"Nightbane" is book two of the series "Lightlark" by Alex Aster, where readers can delve deeper into the relationships between characters, explore the world, and more.
What was your inspiration behind Nightbane? What can readers expect from it?
“Nightbane” begins right where ”Lightlark” ends, so they can be read together almost like one big book. Readers can expect to delve deeper into the relationships between the characters and learn more about the world beyond "Lightlark". There will be more adventure, more powers, and, of course, more plot twists! Just like ”Lightlark”, I put everything I love into ”Nightbane” — enemies to lovers, training scenes, mystery, banter, it’s all in there!
“Reading Rainbow” is a column that represents all writers, their stories and their background. Why do you feel diverse representation is so important in books?
Books are often people’s first tools to develop empathy and to experience voices that might be different from the ones they encounter day-to-day. Because of that, diversity in the voices that are published and represented in books is so important. I’m Colombian and have two young cousins who I love immensely. When my first book, the middle grade ”Emblem Island: Curse of the Night Witch” was published, my cousin Luna looked at the cover, pointed at the character that had her same skin tone, and said, “That’s me!” All people — children especially — deserve that.
What are you the most excited about when it comes to being a part of the Miami Book Fair and coming to Miami?
I was born and raised as a child in South Florida, so it is an honor to attend the Miami Book Fair. I’m most excited to be able to share that moment with my family, who still live nearby. My cousins often come to my book events and signings — seeing them get excited about books and writing is so incredible! Also, there are amazing Colombian restaurants I’ve been going to since I was a kid in Miami, and I’m excited to go back!
What inspires your writing style and stories? Are there any authors that you look up to?
Meg Cabot is the writer that inspired me to start writing books when I was 12 years old. I devoured everything she wrote when I was a teenager. She still inspires me today. As far as my stories go, I get inspired by music, walking around museums, asking questions, or sometimes even just a piece of clothing. There are kernels of ideas all around us — sometimes we just have to be open to them.
What’s up next for you that you can share?
I’m busy writing something that hasn’t been announced yet! Hopefully I’ll be able to share everything soon!
Read more about the Miami Book Fair on Nov. 19 here.
