Headline lands Viking adventure from Courtenay

Headline has landed a romantic Viking timeslip adventure from Christina Courtenay in a two-book deal.

Senior commissioning editor Kate Byrne struck the deal for world English language rights from Lina Langlee at the Kate Nash Literary Agency. First novel Echoes of the Runes, will be published in March 2020 with the second following later in the year.

Set in Sweden, Echoes of the Runes tells the sweeping story of Ceri, a Welsh noblewoman who is taken as a hostage by a Viking, the White Hawk. Back in the present day, an archaeological dig at her late grandmother’s home, leads Mia to uncover secrets of the past which will influence her life in ways she could not have imagined. A second novel is planned, which will begin an “epic Viking timeslip series”.

Courtenay, a romance writer who has previously had 11 titles published by Choc Lit, said: “I’m so delighted to be working with Kate and her team on this new series and, being half Swedish, it is especially thrilling to be able to bring this period of history into the spotlight. Vikings have had a bit of a 'bad press' and I’m looking forward to showing a different side to them. Dual-time and time travel stories have always been my favourites and to have both Kate’s and Lina’s support and enthusiasm for this project is just amazing! I am beyond excited and can’t wait to get started.”

Byrne added: “As a huge fan of both dual-time and timeslip novels, the prospect of working with Christina on Echoes of the Runes and her planned Viking series is a dream come true. I absolutely love the fact that Christina’s own heritage adds such great authenticity and affection for the Viking period and her heartfelt love stories are complemented by page-turning plot and history brought vividly to life which makes for a dazzling read.”