Axis magazine, August 2022 issue

Axis publisher writes debut novel set in the near future

One of the publishers of Axis magazine has just released his debut novel, which is set partly in Hertfordshire. Outside, by Aaron Gransby, has been published in hardback by Gerard Books and is also available in paperback and as an ebook on Amazon. The book is set in a near future society where the economic powerhouse of The City, administered by an unelected government called The Board, dominates the nation. When journalist Rory Kennet begins to investigate the disappearance of a blameless civil servant on behalf of a friend he finds himself Removed from The City. He has to adjust to a new life on the Outside, away from the riches of the 24/7 metropolis, where he vows to uncover the truth behind The Board’s Removals policy. It is an investigation which in turn sheds a new light on his whole existence. Aaron said: “I’m hoping that Outside will make people think a bit about where our society is heading, particularly after the last few difficult years. But anyone buying the book will find it’s a highly readable thriller which can be enjoyed on that level too.” The striking cover artwork is by the renowned London-based artist and printmaker John Duffin.

WHERE TO BUY YOUR COPY A limited edition hardback of Outside can be ordered direct from Aaron via his website (aarongransby.com) at £14.99. It is also available to buy now from stock at The Book Nook, 65 High Street, Ware and it can be ordered through other bookshops including Waterstones. A paperback (£7.99) and ebook (£3.99) are available on Amazon.

Author Aaron Gransby, photographed by Edmond Terakopian