Angry Robot to publish 'heart-stopping' novel from Thomson

Angry Robot Books has acquired Spidertouch, a new epic fantasy novel by Alex Thomson.

World rights were acquired by editor Gemma Creffield from Jennie Goloboy at Donald Maas Literary Agency. Publication is slated for 14th December 2021. 

The synopsis reads: "When he was a boy, Razvan trained as a translator for the hated Keda. They keep a tight hold on the citizens of Val Kedić by forcing their children to work in the dangerous mines of the city from the age of 11 until 18. By learning fingerspeak – the Keda's touch language – Razvan was able to avoid such a punishment for himself and live a life outside the harsh climate of the slums. His son, however, was not so fortunate. Now the city is under siege by a new army who are perhaps even more cruel than their current enslavers. At the same time, a mysterious rebellion force has reached out to Razvan with a plan to utilise the incoming attack to defeat the Keda once and for all. Razvan must decide which side to fight on, who can be trusted, and what truly deserves to be saved."

Creffield said: "I’m very excited to welcome Alex to the Angry Robot team. His touch-language system is absolutely fascinating and following the secret rebellion is a heart-stopping ride."

Thomson, author of 2018's Death of a Clone (Abaddon), commented: "I’m delighted to be joining the Angry Robot family, and proud to be part of a list that always pushes at the boundaries of science fiction and fantasy."