Like a vengeful Norse God, Captain John Nylander has come from the sea to steal the only home that Callie has ever known. And that might not be all he’s after.
Can a Viking . . .
Orphaned as a child, Nylander has never known a real home. Now he is ready to leave the dangers of his past behind and put down the roots he has always longed for. The only thing standing in his way is a lanky aristocratic lady who is more at home on the farm than in the ballroom. And she has secrets . . .
And a Viscountess . . .
Callie, the Dowager Viscountess St. Alban, has poured all her energy into making Wyldcombe Grange her home. Managing an estate is not what she dreamed of, but her late husband’s rejection made it clear that love and a family would never be hers. Now she may lose even that to the sinfully handsome Captain. But Nylander is making her dream again . . .
Turn passion into love?
Nylander inspires a recklessness in Callie that she can’t control. Soon she finds herself conspiring with pirates and contemplating midnight trysts with the very Viking who has turned her life upside down. For Nylander, being with Callie embodies everything he’s always wanted–home. As midnight strikes, will all their secret, sinful dreams come true?
Uncaged Review: This is an enjoyable regency that is quite original in the genre. Callie has been running an estate since her husband passed away, an estate that has been profitable – and an estate that is going to be sold out from under her to a man who looks like a Viking god. But when Captain Nylander is taken back to the estate to recover from malaria, and she gets to know him and he gets to know her, they find they may have more in common than different. This is a slow burn romance, but not a slow burn sexy novel. The sex in the book does start out early, but the romance takes time to brew, for two people who don’t believe they deserve to be loved to find and trust each other. There is some twists, suspense and danger – that keep the reader involved and turning the pages. One of the issues I did have, is that Callie had always run the estate honorably, and when she was going to stoop low enough to try and save the estate, she knew how to get in touch easily with a pirate – almost too easily. One other caution I have, is that the cover of this book does not represent the main characters at all, and although it didn’t affect my rating, it was still very distracting that the time wasn’t given to it. Reviewed by Cyrene
Uncaged: Can you tell readers more about your latest releases, The Line Between series? How many books are you planning on for this series?
The Line Between, which released earlier this year, is the story of a young woman named Wynter Roth, who has just been expelled from a self-contained doomsday cult right as a pandemic begins to sweep across the nation. As she struggles to start over in a world she’s been taught to regard as evil, she finds herself face-to-face with the apocalypse she’s feared all her life—until the night her sister shows up at her doorstep with a set of medical samples and Wynter learns there’s something far more sinister at play.
It’s a thriller set on the American prairie filled with action, conspiracy, and even a touch of romance.
Wynter’s story continues—and concludes—in A Single Light, which released September 17. Right now, there are just these two books in the series. The duology is, however, in development for TV, so I always say that if the series got made and there were demand for more, I could probably be arm-twisted into writing another. ;D
Uncaged: How much do you edit out of your books?
Mostly just the repetitive or boring or stupid stuff. Anything unnecessary that will slow the story down. I used to really, really overwrite my books—by tens or hundreds of thousands of words. Thankfully, experienced helped me grow out of that!
Uncaged: What do you have coming up next that you can tell us about?
The TV development—by Radar Pictures (Jumanji) and Ed Burns’ Marlboro Road Gang Productions—is fun and exciting to follow. Meanwhile, I’m about to start pitching two new historical novels to publishers, so we’re a bit in an in-between phase, project-wise. Writing-wise, however, I’m really excited to announce that two of my writing friends, bestselling authors Nicole Baart and Kimberly Stuart and I are putting on a writing intensive this coming June called Alchemy Writers, in which we’re basically teaching our participants everything we wish we’d known. You can learn more about that at https://alchemywriter.com/.
To read the full interview, see the issue below.
TOSCA LEE is the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Line Between, A Single Light, The Progeny, The Legend of Sheba, Iscariot, and the Books of Mortals series with New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker. Her work has been translated into seventeen languages and optioned for TV and film. She is best known for her meticulous research, masterful prose, unexpected points of view, and high-octane thrillers. Lee is the recipient of numerous awards including a Literary Titan award for The Line Between and the 2014 ELCA Book of the Year in Fiction for her portrayal of the infamous betrayer of Christ in Iscariot, which Publisher’s Weekly calls “impeccable and masterful.” The Legend of Sheba was a finalist for the same award the following year. In addition to the New York Times, her books have appeared on the IndieBound and Christian bestseller lists, Library Journal’s Best Of lists, and as part of Target Stores’ “Target Recommends” program. She has been called the “queen of psychological twists,” and “in a league of her own,” her work praised by Publisher’s Weekly, The Historical Novel Society, Kirkus, Booklist, Woman’s World, Romantic Times, BookReporter, BookRiot, The San Francisco Book Review, The Dallas Morning News, and The Midwest Book Review as “deeply human…” “powerful…” and “mind-bending.” She can currently be heard on American Airlines’ in-flight entertainment system on the Beautiful Writers podcast alongside writing luminaries Lee Child, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Dean Koontz. Lee lives with her husband and two of four step-children still at home in Nebraska and shares her adventures as an author, city-girl-turned-farmer’s-wife, and insta-mom of four (or five, if you count her 140-pound puppy)—on social media.Kristal primarily writes for her publisher, The Wild Rose Press, although she self-released “Hand-Carved Wolf” and “Thief of Hearts.” She writes paranormal, contemporary, and erotic romance.
Enjoy an excerpt from The Line Between
The Line Between Tosca Lee Dystopian Thriller
When Wynter Roth finally escapes from New Earth, a self-contained doomsday cult on the American prairie, she emerges into a world poised on the brink of madness as a mysterious outbreak of rapid early onset dementia spreads across the nation.
As Wynter struggles to start over in a world she’s been taught to regard as evil, she finds herself face-to-face with the apocalypse she’s feared all her life—until the night her sister shows up at her doorstep with a set of medical samples. That night, Wynter learns there’s something far more sinister at play: that the prophet they once idolized has been toying with the fate of mankind, and that these samples are key to understanding the disease.
Now, as the power grid fails and the nation descends into chaos, Wynter must find a way to get the samples to a lab in Colorado. Uncertain who to trust, she takes up with former military man Chase Miller, who has his own reasons for wanting to get close to the samples in her possession, and to Wynter, herself.
Excerpt
CHAPTER ONE IOWA, SEPTEMBER
Conventional wisdom dictates that there’s an insurmountable divide—an entire dimension of eternity and space—between Heaven and Hell. Lucifer managed to make the trip in nine days, at least according to Paradise Lost. That equates to a distance of about 25,920 miles, assuming standard rules of velocity. But I can tell you it’s closer to a foot and a half. The distance of a step. Give or take an inch.
Magnus stands near the gatehouse, shirtsleeves rolled up, collar unbuttoned beneath his brown vest. He nods to the Guardian in the booth and the industrial gate begins its mechanical slide. There’s a small door to the side of it just large enough to admit a single person, but I won’t be leaving by the Narrow Gate. My departure must be a spectacle, a warning to those assembled behind me.
I can feel their eyes against my back like hot iron. The glares mottled by anger and fear. Sadness, maybe, but above all gratitude that they are not me.
Two Guardians stand at my sides ready to forcibly walk me out in case I balk or my twenty-two-year-old legs give out beneath me. I glance at the one to my right and swear he looks impatient. Hungry, maybe; it’s just before lunchtime. I’m crossing into eternal damnation, and all he’s thinking about is an egg salad sandwich—and not even a good one. It’s Wednesday, Sabbath by the solar calendar. Rosella is managing the kitchen, and that pious sandwich is full of chickpeas without a single real egg in it.
The gate comes to a stop with an ominous clang. The road beyond is paved with gravel, a gray part in a sea of native grass strewn with gold and purple flowers in stark contrast to the carefully and beautifully manicured grounds behind me. A meadowlark sings somewhere nearby as a combine rumbles in the distance.
To read the rest of this excerpt, please see the issue below:
Lady Madeline Maddox has a secret. Actually, Maddie has several. The worst one isn’t that she accidentally kissed a known rake, Lord Adam Ridgely, in the garden at the Everston’s Ball. Nor is it that the editor of the London Standard published her scandal for all of London. Her greatest error was sending a series of letters to that same publisher detailing her deepest desires for social change. Even though she sent essays under a nom de plume, they have the power to bring real harm, not just to herself, but to her family as well. But how can she protect herself and them as a ruined woman? And why can’t she stay away from the rake who ruined her? Lord Ridgely will only make her problems worse, won’t he?
The Earl of Ridgely learned long ago to keep his dalliances short and sweet. He has no use for emotional attachments, they only provide unnecessary complication. But when there is a case of mistaken identity in the garden and he inadvertently ruins a respectable lady, Adam has no choice but to offer marriage to Maddie. Except that the duke’s daughter grows more and more interesting with each passing day and her past… well it’s not so innocent. In fact, the lady needs his help. The question is, can he give her what she requires without losing his heart?
Uncaged Review: I think this is probably one of my favorite books I’ve read from this author. This was a shorter read, and I think my only real complaint is it could have been a bit longer, there were a few areas that seemed a bit rushed. This is a fun and romantic historical, and the characters were easy to enjoy. There was just enough intrigue to keep me guessing what the bad guy was going to do, and I cheered the strength of Maddie. All in all, this is a good story for a quick afternoon read.
The author has a fantastic way of creating characters that makes a reader want to hear their story, and enough of a romantic build up with suspense to keep you turning the pages. Reviewed by Cyrene
Meet Callie Penrose. Is she Heaven’s Devil, or Hell’s Angel?
Callie is a middle-class, Midwest American girl. And a wizard in training. She works for Roland, a member of the Vatican Shepherds – an elite group of twelve warrior priests who travel the world smiting whatever offends them or their Good Lord.
One problem. Callie isn’t a huge fan of churches. Not even a minor fan, really.
She trains with Roland only to learn how to use those strange magical powers inside her. And because Roland had once saved her and her friend from monsters in a dark alley.
But when a Heavenly spear enters an auction in Kansas City and Roland is gravely wounded, Callie finds herself forced to step up as an interim Shepherd, and her first night on the job puts her in a bidding war against the infamous Nate Temple—the billionaire wizard from St. Louis. And when demons, shifter bears, vampires, and Nephilim attack the auction for the spear, Nate and Callie are forced to join teams, and one-time foes become hesitant allies.
Callie must learn where she stands as a wizard. Will she hide behind a man, or light Kansas City afire with a name of her own? And will she finally come to appreciate God? Or will the demons and monsters in the shadows take her for themselves?
Because Callie soon learns she isn’t just a wizard, and it was never just about the spear. Monsters have evidently been hunting Callie her entire life, and now, they’ve finally found her…
Uncaged Review: 73% of the reviews for this book is 5 Stars. I’m not there…..yet. But it’s a hell of a start. Since this is the introductory book for this character and even though this is still within the fantastic Nate Temple world and he’s even featured in this book to help spin-off this series, we still have to learn about Callie and her city of Kansas City, and the supporting cast. In this book we don’t really get full answers as to what Callie is or what she’s capable of, it looks like we will learn along with her. There is plenty of action and violence, humor and plenty of Nate, and the first time I’ve read about Nate with him being as the second narrative as this is in Callie’s narrative. I’m still on the fence on that one. This book starts this series with a bang, I think that Callie will become one of those characters that I love now that the “getting to know her” part is done. I will also see if Callie can hold her own without Nate, time will tell, but I’m along for the ride. Reviewed by Cyrene
Sometimes magic doesn’t get the point across. Sometimes the point of a blade is required. After unleashing the power of the neutralizer, Tristan finds himself without the ability to cast magic. Assured this is a temporary condition, Tristan and Simon decide it’s the perfect opportunity to take some much needed time off. That is until a group of dark mages enters the city looking for Master Yat. Now the Montague & Strong Detective Agency must face and eliminate the threat. There’s only one problem. William Montague—Tristan’s lost brother is leading the mages. Without magic, Tristan must face mages intent on killing his friend and teacher, find a way to restore his powers, and stop his brother from bringing a greater darkness to the city, dooming them all.
Sometimes the best answer isn’t a spell. Some situations can only be resolved with bullets and blades.
Uncaged Review: Mr. Sanchez is a master storyteller. This time out, Simon needs to rescue Monty from The Pit, and he comes into some of his own in this book – and it shows how strong the bond between Simon, Monty and Peaches is becoming. I was all in – and Mr. Sanchez didn’t let me down. The great world building that continues on in each book, building upon what is already there, and the author promises us that we will learn more and more about these characters in every book and even though it seems Simon is going to get in trouble with his wise-ass ways, this book shows us that he’s so much more and stronger than you think. And Peaches? One of the greatest sidekicks ever. Reviewed by Cyrene
Robert Powell’s work as a spy saves the Cabinet ministers from a gruesome death and wins him accolades from George IV. As a reward, the king grants him a baronetcy and a much-deserved holiday at the Royal Pavilion in Brighton where he thinks to indulge in brandy, cards, good horseflesh and women.
But when Muriel, Dowager Countess of Claremont, learns of Sir Robert’s intended destination, she begs a favor…to watch over an “errant child” who is the grandniece of her good friend living in the resort town. Little does Robbie know that Miss Chastity Reynolds is no child but a beautiful hoyden who is seemingly immune to his charms.
Chastity lives in the shadow of her mother and sisters, dark-haired beauties men admire. Her first Season was a failure but, as she will soon come into a family legacy, she has no need to wed. When she first encounters Sir Robert, she dubs him The Rogue, certain he indulges in a profligate lifestyle she wants no part in.
In Brighton, Robbie discovers he is being followed by friends of the conspirators who had planned to murder the Cabinet. Worse, they know the location of Chastity’s residence.
Uncaged Review: The final book in the Agents of the Crown series, but don’t be alarmed, you can easily read these as standalones. Having the background of the family from the beginning just enhances the books. I’ve come to rely on this author to always be a good read, and she doesn’t disappoint here. This book is not just a romance, it’s a thrilling regency, with suspense and danger. There were times I laughed out loud and other times I was reading as fast I could to see what happened next. With real history facts woven thru out the story, you will unknowingly learn as you are entertained with this clean historical.
No spoilers from me, but any reader that loves a good historical romance, won’t go wrong with this book, or this series. Highly recommended. Reviewed by Cyrene
A Witch in Time Kean & Daniels Time Travel Paranormal Romance
Welcome to Cat’s Paw Cove, Florida—an enchanting seaside town and favorite tourist destination. But there’s something unusual about the locals, both human and feline. The popular Shipwreck Museum might just take you back in time, and the historic Sherwood House holds secrets, old and new.
Adopt a furever friend at the Cove Cat Café, treat yourself to a psychic reading at Eye of Newt metaphysical shop, pick up a special trinket from Black Cat Antiquities. And don’t be surprised if you find your heart in the magic of Cat’s Paw Cove.
In a violent storm in 1645, Colin Wilshire’s Barbados-bound ship is swept off course. He’s sure he and his pregnant bride are fated to drown when he’s tossed into the sea. He wakes in a strange land and is saved by a blue-haired angel.
Twenty-first-century witch and cat rescuer Luna Halpern has fallen for more than her share of unsuitable guys—including one with a long-distance fiancé, and another who was more interested in other dudes than in Luna. Finally, a safe, drama-free guy is interested in her, and she’s confident that she’ll muster up an attraction to him. When she stumbles upon a handsome, mysterious man who speaks oddly, seems not to know where he is, or even what century it is, her first instinct is to help him.
Certain he’s either stuck in a crazy dream or in limbo between life and death, Colin stays close to Luna. As his feelings for her grow, he’s forced to choose between his obligations in the past and his hopes for the future.
Uncaged Review: Normally, I am not a huge fan of time travel novels, especially romances – because somewhere along the line, one of the people will have to give something up to keep love, or walk away, and you don’t get to know how it would have been to the ones they leave behind. Not so on this book. This is a charming, shorter read that was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed the characters, the mystery and their world. A few laughs, a pinch of danger. With Colin and Luna, they will have to figure out, should Colin go back in time, or should he stay with Luna?
This is one of those rare time travel books that had the right ending with a fun epilogue that ties it all together. Reviewed by Cyrene
Morgan D’Arcy is an English lord, a classical pianist, and a vampire. He has everything except what he desires most—Isabeau. As the Angel Gabriel he’s steered her life and career choice, preparing her to become Lady D’Arcy.
Many forces oppose Morgan’s daring plan—not the least of which is Vampyre law.
Isabeau Gervase is a brilliant geneticist. Though she no longer believes in angels, she sees a ticket to a Nobel Prize in Gabriel’s secrets—secrets that have led her to a startling conclusion. Gabriel isn’t human, and she fully intends to identify the species she named the Angel Genome. Morgan is ready to come back into Isabeau’s life, but this time as a man not an angel. Will he outsmart his enemies, protect his beloved and escape death himself? For the first time in eternity, the clock is ticking.
Uncaged Review: Sophisticated, arrogant, beautiful, darkness, love. Many things can describe Morgan D’Arcy, these are just a few that came to me right at this moment. He’s as dangerous as he is beautiful, he can be a vampire that is the thing of nightmares, or the passionate lover that everyone wishes for. Morgan is a being of the past, and it still shows even in the modern times. This is a love story, but it’s also a tragic love story and will haunt you long after you finish reading it. This all-consuming love story of Morgan and Isabeau will enthrall the reader as they try to overcome the many obstacles in their path to happiness.
There are enough twists and turns in the story to keep you spinning in a different direction and will pull at emotions you didn’t think you’d have for a vampire story, and I can only hope that Morgan will grace us with further stories. Reviewed by Cyrene
