Hermit: A powerful debut novel about one boy's journey into incel culture

A powerful and offbeat debut novel about one boy's journey into incel culture, from acclaimed Scottish author of Hings and HWFG, Chris McQueer.

''A deeper look into the loneliness of modern masculinity. Superb.'' DOUGLAS STUART, author of SHUGGIE BAIN

''An utter triumph . . . Far and away the best debut novel I''ve read in a very long time'' JOHN NIVEN, author of O BROTHER

''A grimly addictive, empathetic novel. Hermit is a visceral examination of the misogynistic rot permeating the minds of young men and putting women at risk. A dreadful - but masterful - read'' ALICE SLATER, author of DEATH OF A BOOKSELLER

''A story of shame, transgression and the distances we will travel in order to feel less alone. I was so moved'' ANNIE MACMANUS, author of MOTHER MOTHER

''As compelling as doom scrolling'' THE HERALD MAGAZINE

''Arguably the most eagerly-awaited novel of the year. McQueer writes with humour and an insight into human nature which is striking.'' SNACK MAGAZINE

''HERMIT is brave, bold and ambitious'' SUNDAY POST

Since dropping out of school three years ago with no qualifications, no pals, and no ambition, Jamie Skelton spends most of his days asleep and most of his nights wanking, playing video games with his online friend, Lee, and occasionally making the journey downstairs to the kitchen for a microwave burger. He hasn''t left the house in months, and now he''s not sure he can.

Fiona, Jamie''s maw, is trying her best, but since finding the courage to kick out her abusive husband her confidence has never recovered. She goes to work every day, but otherwise she''s not that different from her son - withdrawn from life, without friends. She knows their lives can''t carry on like this, but she''s at a loss to know how to change things.

When Fiona tries to get Jamie to apply for a job, he sees her as the cause for all of his problems. Then Lee tells Jamie he''s realised there''s a name for what they are - incels - and that there''s a guy he''s met through the forums they can go stay with in London, to get away from their nagging mams.

But in running away from his problems at home, Jamie may actually be running towards something much worse.

Praise for Chris McQueer:
''Charlie Brooker on Buckfast'' Martin Compston, Line of Duty
''[McQueer''s] talent zings off the page'' Guardian
''Impressive'' Eric Idle, Monty Python

• | Author: Chris McQueer
• | Publisher: Headline Publishing Group
• | Publication Date: Feb 27, 2025
• | Number of Pages:
• | Language:
• | Binding: Hardback
• | ISBN-13: 9781035409815
• | ISBN-10: 103540981X