Character feature: Niklas Kristoffersen
Meet the protagonist of "Black Cordite, White Snow."
Name: Niklas Kristoffersen
Characteristics:
Strategic
Direct
Contemplative
Persuasive
Courageous
Background & Appearance: Fair-skinned, with brown hair prematurely beginning to show gray at the temples. He has a defined, square jawline; gray-blue eyes; and an athletic, stocky build. Niklas' well worn leather Mackinaw coat and tweed scally cap make him look like a down-at-the-heels factory worker.
Motivation: Niklas and his younger brother, Kessler, are Danish immigrants who became naturalized U.S. citizens before enlisting to fight for the Americans during WWI. He sees the way the world uses the working-class man, the immigrant, the displaced, the foreigner, and knows that much of their life is decided for them by those with money and influence. He saw that firsthand on the battlefields of France and continues to see it while working for his wealthy uncle, Ezra. He’s tired of living in the slums, being looked down at by those who aren't better, smarter, or stronger men.
But rather than viewing the wealthy as the anarchists and communists do—with animosity and resentment—Niklas wants to be like them. He wants to elevate his family’s social class by any means necessary. To rise above the masses to ensure the safety and wellbeing of his family. But instead of living a quiet life in some remote Danish village like his father, he wants to elevate his power. He doesn't just want to ride in the car, he wants to steer it. Although he starts out adhering to his moral code, he begins to slip and make excuses for himself and others in pursuit of this one driving motivation.
Habits: Constantly chewing Clove spice-flavored chewing gum (released in 1914). Clove received its first boost in popularity when U.S. Prohibition kicked off in the 1920s: Those walking home from speakeasies used it to cover the smell of liquor on their breath as they walked home for the evening. Niklas doesn't smoke and drinks only in moderation.
Pet peeves: Indecision, laziness, and slowness.
Get to know Niklas better in Black Cordite, White Snow, available February, 2024.