Welcome to the world of Chosen, the first novel by writer Jerry Ibbotson.

Chosen is a coming of age tale and fantasy story in one (note: that’s fantasy with a small f). Imagine Nick Hornby’s lovechild with C S Lewis.

Magic books, undead vicars, God and fondue forks are brought together in the story of Alex Preston: a grumpy, daydreaming office worker who finds a tunnel in the basement at work. It leads to a land full of magic and fantasy. Armed with a sleeping bag and a small torch, Alex leaves his family behind and sets off to explore.

It’s not long before his adventure begins to unravel rather alarmingly and the story builds to an explosive climax. Alex finally discovers the meaning of real magic and learns that when love is stronger than fear, marvellous things can happen.

Chosen, published in the UK by Media Mill, is available to buy from this site.