With „Der Schwur“ („The Oath“), the exceptional Swiss author Sunil Mann sets completely new standards and is not afraid to touch on uncomfortable topics and to question them critically. „Der Schwur“ takes a crude look at the present and gives a very detailed view on the often controversial subject of refugees. narrated in a ruthlessly realistic, masterfully subtle way, and, despite all seriousness, in Sunil Mann's typical enigmatic and humorous manner. The novel alternates between the harsh reality of refugees, the unmasking mentality of right-wing populist politicians and the attempt of two lonely people to make the world a little better with their 'Agency for Unpleasant Affairs'. Sunil Mann gives a voice to a refugee girl that touches even the most conversative person. At the same time, he creates a counter-image with the figure of an ambitious young political figure, who brilliantly unmasks the double standards of right-wing populist policies on foreigners. Stylistically sophisticated suspense, excellent research, a clear political statement and social criticism without a raised forefinger – this is the very high art of storytelling!

Marisa Greco and Bashir Berisha want to get started with their own detective agency. Although the single mother and flight attendant and the Albanian doorman have no investigative experience, they are a good team – and also have no alternative plan for their lives. In fact, they soon get a case: they are supposed to steal a trolley bag for Joy, a Nigerian woman. Inside the suitcase is her ticket to freedom – the passport confiscated by her procurer. Now that Joy's fourteen-year-old sister Faith has also embarked on the arduous journey to Europe, time is running out if the girl is to be saved from a similar fate.