We’re delighted to announce that Sandstone Press is to publish Short Ride on A Fast Machine, by Magnus McGrandle, in June 2017.
Short Ride on A Fast Machine is a quirky and engaging caper: the story of a young cycle courier from London who goes on an improbable journey to Norway, to pick up a stuffed owl for a mysterious client. For his oddest job to date, Sam enlists the help of his friend and fellow courier Poyntz. But as they make their haphazard journey to Mr Sorensen’s mountain hut, its owner is attracting the attention of the Norwegian police. Have Sam and Poyntz become unlikely accomplices in one of the biggest crimes in the country’s history?
Magnus is a distinctive new voice who captures the exuberant joy of being young alongside life’s heartbreaks – the novel is also a moving and mature meditation on love, death, and the passing of time, with a thread of satire woven gracefully through it. Somewhat picaresque and very funny, the book pokes gentle, affectionate fun at modern cultural mores including taxidermy, Nordic crime, cheap air-travel and even the international art market; Magnus is an incredibly observant writer with a lively and intelligent interest in the zeitgeist, and the depth to add a timeless quality, too.
The publisher commented: ‘Short Ride on a Fast Machine’ is fast-paced and funny with a satisfying plot and lively characters. We’re delighted to be publishing such an original and accomplished debut.’
Magnus is represented by Elinor Cooper.
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