Midnight Sun: ‘Darker’ Twilight book coming out in August, says author Stephenie Meyer

‘Midnight Sun’ tells Edward and Bella’s love story from the vampire’s perspective

Stephenie Meyer has announced that a new Twilight book will come out this summer, 12 years after the last volume in the original book series.

Midnight Sun will be released on 4 August by Hachette’s Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

The book tells the same story that unfolded in the four original instalments, ie that of the love story between high school student Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen – but while the previous Twilight books unfolded from Bella’s perspectives, Midnight Sun will be told in Edward’s voice.

A description released by the publisher teases the upcoming book as such: “This unforgettable tale as told through Edward’s eyes takes on a new and decidedly dark twist. Meeting beautiful, mysterious Bella is both the most intriguing and unnerving event he has experienced in his long life as a vampire.

“As we learn more fascinating details about Edward’s past and the complexity of his inner thoughts, we understand why this is the defining struggle of his life. How can he let himself fall in love with Bella when he knows that he is endangering her life?”

Meyer announced the release in a video message broadcast on Good Morning America on Monday morning in the US.

“I am very excited to finally, finally announce the release of Midnight Sun on 4 August,” the author said.

“It’s a crazy time right now and I wasn’t sure if it was the right time to put this book out, but some of you have been waiting for just so, so long. It didn’t seem fair to make you wait anymore.”

Meyer told USA Today that Midnight Sun is “definitely darker” and “more desperate” than its predecessors.

'Midnight Sun' will be released on 4 August by Hachette's Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

“The stakes are way higher from [Edward’s] perspective,” she added.

The news comes days after a mysterious countdown appeared on Meyer’s website, sparking speculation that Midnight Sun‘s release might be on the horizon.

Midnight Sun came to a halt after a draft of the novel was leaked in 2008. The project had remained on hold ever since.