The Peculiar - Stefan Bachmann

A brilliantly written steampunk faery fantasy by a dazzling young talent, this is JONATHAN STRANGE AND MR NORRELL for kids, mixed with a dash of THE BARTIMAEUS TRILOGY.

Bartholomew Kettle won't live long. Changelings never do. The child of a human mother and a faery father, he is despised by both his races. But one day Bartholomew suddenly finds himself at the centre of a web of intrigue and danger that spans the entire country. A powerful figure sits in the shadows, pushing the pieces in place for some terrible victory. Something is coming for Bartholomew. But when you're a changeling, there's nowhere to run.

Only 19 years of age, Stefan Bachmann is a prodigy. He attends the Zurich Conservatory where he is studying composition. As well as writing novels and writing music, he plays the organ, piano, violin, recorder, and harmonica. The Peculiar is his debut novel, and he has composed music to accompany it.

"Bachmann's prose is beautiful, and his story is swift, strong, and entertaining. Highly recommended."-Christopher Paolini

"Stefan Bachmann's sparkling debut is sure to get a lot of well-deserved notice. He breathes fresh life into ancient magic."-Rick Riordan