A DEVIL COMES TO TOWN
Paolo Maurensig, trans. Anne Milano Appel (World Editions)
Strange things are happening in a quaint, Swiss mountain paradise in Dichtersruhe. The townsfolk, in a bizarre mass effort, are wildly enthused by the notion of publishing their creative endeavours. Even more so when – coincidentally – the Devil comes to stay with the promise of granting a contract and a large sum of money to one lucky winner. A Devil… is a twisted, gothic tale, exploring a town’s misplaced passion, whilst surrounded by rabid foxes, slick-tongued demons and distrusting priests. Maurensig’s writing is crisply unsettling and the novel’s darkly-threaded plot generates a real thirst for answers. Are the townsfolk immersed in magic and mysticism? Or are they just mad with disillusionment and dreams? This parable-like accomplishment will stick its horns in deep and stay with you forever. words Karla Brading
Price: £9.50. Info: www.worldeditions.org