Andromeda
A Novel
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- USD 10.99
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- USD 10.99
Publisher Description
Working her way up at a storied Stockholm publisher, a young woman develops an ambiguous, shifting relationship with her boss, in this shrewd novel about the tension between tradition and modernity, and expectations and reality.
The publishing house is anchored like a ship along Stockholm’s main street, a large, bright building with an impressive rooftop terrace. The facade is a grid of wood and granite; flags with a cursive R sway in the wind. R as in Rydéns.
A young woman starts as an intern at this venerated institution, and over many years gains more and more responsibility for its authors and books. All under the supervision of Gunnar, publishing director of the most prestigious imprint behind the finest literature, Andromeda.
Over time their work relationship transforms into something neither of them can truly define. Perhaps built on mutual trust? Or is it something else?
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
This tender outing from Bohman (Drowned) chronicles the yearslong platonic relationship between two editors at a Stockholm publishing house. It begins in 2009, when Sofie Andersson is about to finish her internship at Rydén's. Though usually quiet around her coworkers, she makes an offhand critical comment about a book on Rydén's list to editor-in-chief Gunnar Abrahamsson, earning his respect, and he sets her on the unexpected path of becoming an editor herself. Their mentor-mentee relationship is one of mutual understanding; they bond over their appreciation for the books published under an erstwhile imprint that Gunnar started years ago, and the fact that they both value craft over commerce. After Sofie becomes an editor, she meets with Gunnar for drinks twice a month, and though their relationship never turns physical, the intimacy the two share increases over the years. Gunnar's declining health leads to his retirement, and his negative attitude about the company after he leaves drives a wedge between the two. The subtly gorgeous prose highlights the affection between two like-minded individuals, both of whom are trying to preserve what they value the most. This is perfect for devouring in a single afternoon.
