Born in Perth, Western Australia, in 1973, Jay Kristoff is an Australian author who writes fantasy and science fiction for both young adult and adult audiences. He has published numerous novels, with his work often exploring themes of connection, loss, and the significance of sacrifice in achieving victory. Kristoff's early life involved extensive reading and tabletop gaming, and he pursued a degree in Arts before a decade-long career in creative advertising for television. He now resides in Melbourne, Australia.

Kristoff's literary career includes several notable series. His steampunk series, The Lotus War, draws inspiration from historical Japan and was recognized with several award nominations and wins for its initial installments. He also co-authored The Illuminae Files with Amie Kaufman, a science fiction series that achieved significant success, including New York Times bestseller status and film rights acquisitions. His adult epic fantasy series, The Nevernight Chronicle, has also garnered critical acclaim and award recognition, with film adaptation plans announced. Other series include the young adult science fiction series Lifel1k3 and The Aurora Cycle (co-authored with Kaufman), as well as the adult fantasy epic Empire of the Vampire.

Jay Kristoff's extensive bibliography spans multiple fantasy and science fiction series, catering to both young adult and adult readers. His works, such as The Lotus War, The Illuminae Files, The Nevernight Chronicle, Lifel1k3, The Aurora Cycle, and Empire of the Vampire, have garnered numerous awards and bestseller designations across various international markets. Kristoff's narratives frequently delve into profound thematic territories, including the complexities of familial bonds, the strength found in friendship and love, the impact of loss, and the consequences of betrayal. A recurring philosophical undercurrent in his fiction suggests that true accomplishment is inextricably linked to sacrifice, articulating this idea through the sentiment that "victory without sacrifice is meaningless."

Kristoff's literary output has been met with considerable critical and commercial success. His debut novel, Stormdancer, the first in The Lotus War series, was a finalist for the Aurealis Award and shortlisted for David Gemmell Awards. The Illuminae Files, a co-authored series with Amie Kaufman, debuted on the New York Times Best Seller List and saw its film rights optioned by Plan B Entertainment. This series also received multiple Aurealis Awards and the Australian Book Industry Award for Book of the Year for Older Children. The Nevernight Chronicle earned Kristoff further David Gemmell Award nominations and Aurealis Awards for Best Fantasy Novel, with plans for a film adaptation. His other series, Lifel1k3 and The Aurora Cycle, have also received award nominations and bestseller recognition. Empire of the Vampire marked his most commercially successful debut to date, topping bestseller lists in the US, UK, France, and Spain.

“victory without sacrifice is meaningless”