Tess Carletta (she/her) chats with Sebastian Nothwell (he/him) about her successful Kickstarter campaign for her queer romantic fantasy novel Goldheart.

After being abducted from his orphanage, Senna Kane was raised and molded into the perfect Goldheart. As his personal guard, Senna accompanies Prince Percy on a journey outside the kingdom of Talsura...and its protective barrier. The Dam has always kept them safe from the sun sickness, a deadly disease that causes its victims to grow plants from their bodies when touched by sunlight—but it also means they must live under a relentless black sky.



They set out to a neighboring rival kingdom and find the citizens of Redwind have embraced the sickness and the gifts it offers. Among them is Captain Emrys Calloway, the handsome guard to the princess who encourages Senna to do reckless, impossible things—like learn to wield the sun's magic himself. They form a furtive plot with Princess Thea and the spirited librarian, Nare, to tackle the dangerous magic and restore the bond between their kingdoms before it's broken once and for all. 



Goldheart is a story about chosen family, choosing love, and the impossible feat of staying good in times of darkness. Coming to a bookshelf near you on June 25th, 2025!

Tess Carletta (she/her) is the author of Kit & Basie, a queer cozy fantasy romance, its sequel collection Patchwork, and the forthcoming fantasy novel Goldheart. You can connect with her at her website: tesscarletta.com

Sebastian Nothwell (he/him) is the author of the Victorian romantasy Oak King Holly King, its sequel Tales from Blackthorn Briar, and the fantasy-of-manners romance Fiorenzo, amongst other titles. You can connect with him at his website: sebastiannothwell.com