Eva García Sáenz de Urturi brings inspector Kraken to Venice in a fresh tale of intrigue titled E.angel of the city. The novel has placed the Alicante-born writer back atop bestseller lists, arriving on shelves just a month ago. It weaves a web of mysteries, art, and old books, and its author has long been celebrated for works regarded as educated, high-quality literature, a distinction she wears with pride after winning the 2020 Planeta Award.
How does Kraken retire, lecture, and confront the figure of his mother in this new installment, where black book of hours meets inside angel of the city? The journey takes him to Venice and later to Vitoria to trace his father’s footsteps, all while the call to rest grows louder. Will rest ever come?
Every thriller hinges on a conflict. Kraken faces a double challenge: investigating his father’s death in Vitoria and a palace fire in Venice, a case tangled with his mother’s involvement.
Why choose Venice as the setting for this new chapter of intrigue?
In these novels, the plot drives the setting. In angel of the city, a forgery scheme surrounding Dalí paintings naturally steers the story toward Venice, a city alive with galleries, museums, and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
The routes Kraken follows are real places you have visited before. What is the magic of Venice that fuels your imagination?
Beyond the famous sights lies a Venice rich with texture and character, perfect for a thriller about art fraud. Its hidden corners, its archives of memory, and its quiet conspiracies lend the narrative a palpable atmosphere.
What does the title angel of the city reveal about a guardian figure representing both good and bad aspects within each person?
The guardian figure embodies protection in this context. Venetians often organize matters outside official channels, and a vigilant guardian emerges as a logical consequence of the conspiracy.
“I am proud that my books are seen as quality, intellectual literature”
Art and heritage saturate the novels. The venetian-gem black book of hours sits among art, great painters, and rare books within the narrative.
These works are often labeled as cultured bestsellers. The writer notes influences from the names associated with literary traditions like Umberto Eco or Carlos Ruiz Zafón. Pride in being recognized as quality literature is balanced with a deliberate effort to include substantial documentation, ensuring readers gain knowledge as they follow the thriller’s twists.
The author acknowledges a reader who appreciates didactic depth and explains that meticulous research underpins the storytelling, weaving travel memories, consultations with experts, and an extensive bibliography into the fabric of the novels.
On the other hand, Vitoria, the enduring hometown of Estíbaliz, features in Kraken’s investigation into his father’s death. Why bring this reunion with the hero’s past into the narrative?
Kraken is a deeply rooted character, and his origins are central to every novel. The past clarifies who he is and why he acts the way he does, guiding readers through the emotional landscape of the series.
The plot in Venice opens with a palace fire. Several bodies are missing, and Kraken’s mother, a major fraudster, appears linked to the case. Does this complete portrayal include his father as well?
From the early installments, the dynamic between Kraken’s parents was set to be a powerful, tragic love story. His mother Ithaca emerged as a compelling figure in the preceding book black book of hours and remains a favorite among readers. The second-person narration is used to draw readers closer, while Kraken’s father, Gael, is depicted as a bright, lively presence. Love and loyalty weave through the pages, inviting strong emotional engagement.
“I focus on writing the best chapter I can every day.”
For some authors, the research and planning process are nearly as important as the act of writing. How did the historical details come together for this book?
Everything matters. In thrillers built on documentation and multi-plot complexity, upfront planning is essential. The process includes years of travel, consultations with experts, and a vast bibliography that anchors the narrative in credible history.
Did you return to Venice repeatedly while shaping the plot?
More than six trips were made. The author sought out bookstores in less touristy neighborhoods like Dorsoduro, where booksellers offered guidance on the most culturally authentic pockets of Venice, revealing legends and oral traditions that shape the novel’s texture.
Black book of hours dominated the markets last year. What does following a best-seller path mean for a writer starting a new work?
The angel of the city arrived with great momentum, staying at national number one for weeks while black book of hours topped the mobile charts. A second award and continuing reader anticipation mark a milestone, but the writer stays focused on crafting the best chapter possible each day, disregarding the pressure of expectations.
Will Kraken continue to unfold, or will his world evolve with new settings and stakes?
Kraken and the micro-universe surrounding him have a vast, dedicated readership—millions eager for more adventures. The author remains open to future explorations within that universe, embracing the opportunities that storytelling offers.
Beyond bestseller status, the Planeta Award recognized extraordinary talent. What comes next for the author?
The writing life is deeply rewarding, and the author embraces it with enthusiasm. The coming years promise busy schedules, fresh ideas, and new challenges that keep the work exciting and meaningful.