I´ve only read one story of this Scottish-based Finnish writer (Deus Ex Homine, in Year´s Best SF 11), but it was a very impressive story to me. So I can say I´m very happy to learn this from his agent, John Jarrold:
"I received this chapter from Hannu by e-mail in the morning (and loved it), mentioned it to Simon when we were talking about other matters, and three hours later I had a very strong pre-empt offer," said John Jarrold. "After fifteen years in an editor's chair I am very aware how unusual it is for an offer to be made for a debut novelist on only twenty-four double spaced pages -- particularly at a time when many publishing executives are more interested in the opinions of their sales and marketing directors than those of their senior editors. So congratulations to Simon for his enthusiasm and the speed of his response, and much respect to those at Orion who trusted his judgement. I think everyone can judge the power of Hannu's writing from the way this deal was done. This chapter leaves me thirsting for more!"
Simon Spanton said: "Yes, acquiring one book, let alone three, on the basis of a single chapter is a gamble; and not one I or any other editor is in the habit of making. But I've never been more sure of a hand than the one dealt to me by John and Hannu.
"Hannu's first chapter was entirely enticing; yes, it was brimful of energy, originality and fascinating science but these were bonuses. What caught me and left me desperate for more was the masterful way he set up the characters, created relationships between them based on intrigue and need and suggested a rich past and a dangerous future for all concerned. I haven't been this excited after reading just one chapter in a long, long time and consequently I'm delighted to be able to welcome Hannu to Gollancz."
The novel is due for delivery in August 2009.
Hannu Rajaniemi short fiction has featured in INTERZONE, Finnish magazines, the anthology NOVA SCOTIA and two Best of the Year SF anthologies. Hannu has a Ph D in string theory and is a co-founder of ThinkTank Maths Limited, a technology consultancy.
All the best for Hannu. Congratulations, man!
illustration by Fabio Cobiaco
I wait with interest to see Hannu Rajaniemi's works. I am very curious about it :)
In his blog, Hal Duncan says Hannu will shake the SF community like Stross did some years back. If I was curious, now I´m desperate to read this guy.