New author at Grand Agency!

Axel Hellby is the head teacher of the creative writing course at Åsa Folkhögskola, and has previously been editor-in-chief of cultural magazine Trakten and translated plays into Swedish. After nine crime and suspense novels, Axel is embarking on a new literary direction, the first time with representation. His forthcoming novel is a darkly funny and moving story about identity, community and starting over. Exploring loneliness, belonging and second chances, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Axel’s writing career. 

Having previously worked in a variety of jobs such as a Swedish teacher, DJ, warehouse worker and dishwasher, as well as lived in both remote villages and major cities, Axel draws on a wide range of environments and experiences in his writing. His work often blends darkness with humour, driven by a fascination with human relationships and a keen eye for injustice. Equally at home reading horror and science fiction as he is nature poetry, essays, and literary classics, he maintains a steadfast belief in the transformative power of literature.  

Welcome to the agency, Axel!