THE SLEEPER (DEN SOVANDE)
Johan Ehn
Nominated to Prisma Literature Prize 2024 in the category “Novel of the Year”
After a tumultuous relationship, Christian finds refuge in the spiritual movement The Source of Knowledge. But the undeniable sense of community he initially encounters, turns out to be conditional. Homosexuality is not compatible with the teachings, but there is “help” available.
Christian is faced with an ultimatum and is sent to the magnificent Lake District in the north of England to find out what he is willing to sacrifice. There, he meets the charming Lee, who turns everything upside down.
The Sleeper is a poignant story, partially based on real events, about losing oneself in the longing for meaning and belonging.
303 pages
Rights
Italy: Fandango
Sweden: Romanus & Selling
REVIEWS
“Powerful and moving depiction of conversion attempts. Breaking free from a cult can be life-threatening. Based on his own experiences, Johan Ehn has crafted a well-written, intense, and charged novel.”
M-Magasin / SWE
“A strong and overwhelming read that won’t leave anyone untouched.”
bok_stavligt / SWE
“This is the third book I’ve read by Johan Ehn, and I continue to be amazed by his storytelling. His ability to create atmosphere and vivid characters is outstanding, and I am captivated from the first to the last page. In The Sleeper I feel almost bare in front of the character Christian, both his story and its portrayal. Christian is a complex and credible person who struggles with his innermost fears and dreams; it is easy to empathize with him.
Ehn manages to convey a powerful and touching story that lingers long after one has put down the book. I hope many more will get to experience this gripping and well-written narrative. Johan Ehn has once again proven that he is a fantastic storyteller, and I look forward to following his continued authorship. Rating: 5/5”
anna_bokmal / SWE
“I’ve found a new favorite author this year – Johan Ehn.
Earlier this year, I read his book Not Dead Yet, which is a touching story about life and death. A book filled with sorrow, humor, and fantastic characters that feel real and are depicted with warmth. One of my best reading experiences this year!
During July, I read Ehn’s latest novel, The Sleeper, which is a well-written, powerful, and moving book. […] Another fantastic reading experience!”
bokmalin / SWE
“The Sleeper is the third novel I’ve read by Johan Ehn, and he has become a favorite author. I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read, and this is no exception. Ehn manages to tell a gripping story in an even more gripping way. The story moves back and forth in time until the timelines meet, and it does so in a very skillful manner. The reader is kept on edge, and it is impossible to put the book down. With the afterword about its connection to reality, it feels even more impactful. After the last page, you are struck by a sense of emptiness, like after a truly great book.”
mathildalaser / SWE
“Ehn has a fantastic way of writing with a vivid language that captures me as a reader right from the start. […] The Sleeper is definitely a book that evokes many thoughts and feelings, I will carry the story with me for a long time.”
camillasboktips / SWE
“An incredibly gripping story about belonging and the meaning of life. How vulnerable a person is in a crisis and how they become an easy target for religious fanatics and subcultures. […] I really like Johan Ehn as an author; the people he portrays need their place in literature and in people’s consciousness.”
lotta_boktok / SWE