Eriu, the Dublin-based imprint of Bonnier Books UK, has acquired Spirit Level by debut Irish writer Richy Craven. Deirdre Nolan, publishing director of Eriu, acquired World All Language rights from Bethany Ferguson at Kate Nash Literary Agency.
Spirit Level is a hilariously funny novel following Danny Hook, a directionless twenty-something fresh out of therapy. Dealing with his disappointed family and dead-end career, he’s sure things couldn’t get much worse, until a drink-driving accident leaves his best friend Nudge dead and Danny hospitalised. Danny also discovers he can see ghosts – but only when he’s drunk. Saddled with a best friend who can’t leave his side, they must figure out what’s going on and why Nudge can’t cross over. Can Danny negotiate family life, therapy and a ghost that refuses to fade into the background before time runs out?
Richy Craven said: ‘I’ve been sharing a skull with these characters for a few years now, so I’m delighted to be working with Deirdre and Eriu to make them everyone else’s problem.’
Deirdre Nolan said: ‘Richy Craven has been making me laugh on Twitter/X for years, so I’m thrilled to be bringing his debut novel to a new audience. Danny and Nudge’s antics have me in stiches, I’m sure readers will die laughing at them too.’
Bethany Ferguson said: ‘Richy is an exceptionally funny writer, and every page of Spirit Level is bursting with heart, hope and warmth, as well as plenty of supernatural shenanigans! I can’t wait for readers to fall in love with these unforgettable characters and go on the journey of an (after)lifetime.’
Richy Craven is an Irish writer. He will cautiously admit to having a degree in Environmental Biology, provided there are no follow up questions. He can be found mostly on Twitter for as long as that is still a thing. He lives in Dublin with his girlfriend and a Border Collie named Rio. Richy collects comic books and anxiety disorders. He can be found on Twitter/X at @RichyCraven.
Spirit Level will publish on 25th April 2024 in paperback, eBook and audiobook.
