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Border Magic Series
The Gate
This is a perma-free short story of 7.5k words.
It's 1919, and Matty returns home to the family farm from the trenches only to find his brother Arthur dying of an unknown illness. The local doctor thinks it might be cancer, but Matty becomes convinced it's connected to the mysterious books his brother has left strewn around the house.
Matty confides his suspicions in his friend Rob, a hired hand on the farm and potential lover. Rob has found something that looks like a gate of some kind, something Arthur referenced in his papers which may rest at the heart of his illness. But a gate to where?
This perma-free short story was the start of the Lost in Time Universe and has now been expanded and continued in the 35k novella Inheritance of Shadows .
It's 1919, and Matty returns home to the family farm from the trenches only to find his brother Arthur dying of an unknown illness. The local doctor thinks it might be cancer, but Matty becomes convinced it's connected to the mysterious books his brother has left strewn around the house.
Matty confides his suspicions in his friend Rob, a hired hand on the farm and potential lover. Rob has found something that looks like a gate of some kind, something Arthur referenced in his papers which may rest at the heart of his illness. But a gate to where?
This perma-free short story was the start of the Lost in Time Universe and has now been expanded and continued in the 35k novella Inheritance of Shadows .
26 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 23, 2017
45 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Lester
26 books152 followersWriter of queer, paranormal, historical, romantic suspense. Lives in the South West of England with Mr AL, two children, a badly behaved dachshund, a terrifying cat and some hens. Likes gardening but doesn't really have time or energy. Not musical. Doesn't much like telly. Non-binary. Chronically disabled. Has tedious fits.
For updates, giveaways and general shenanigans: My newsletter and a free novella - my facebook group - twitter - instagram - tiktok.
I also write higher-heat contemporary MM romance as Frances Fox.
For updates, giveaways and general shenanigans: My newsletter and a free novella - my facebook group - twitter - instagram - tiktok.
I also write higher-heat contemporary MM romance as Frances Fox.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 16, 2022
3 ‘teaser’ Stars
Decent short. Likeable characters, a promising romance, an atmospheric post-WWI setting, and some mystery and intrigue that might lead to some very interesting (and fantastical?) things.
It was only upon completing this compelling 28 page (FREE) short story that I realized it was just the stepping stone to a larger series (the Border Magic series), and that this short has in fact been extended into a much larger and satisfying story in Inheritance of Shadows (where this short acts as chapter one).
This story has good bones and I look forward to exploring the larger book (and series) further.
Decent short. Likeable characters, a promising romance, an atmospheric post-WWI setting, and some mystery and intrigue that might lead to some very interesting (and fantastical?) things.
It was only upon completing this compelling 28 page (FREE) short story that I realized it was just the stepping stone to a larger series (the Border Magic series), and that this short has in fact been extended into a much larger and satisfying story in Inheritance of Shadows (where this short acts as chapter one).
This story has good bones and I look forward to exploring the larger book (and series) further.
April 23, 2019
An intriguing short with an open ending
2.5*
I've knocked a star off just because it's so short and because nothing really happens in the way of a completed story.
This is more of a set up for the series as a whole as I understand it so we get an odd take about a mysterious illness which has taken the life of the MCs brother, a strange light in the barn, a potential romance with a farmhand, a short battle with an otherworldly creature and then it ends!
2.5*
I've knocked a star off just because it's so short and because nothing really happens in the way of a completed story.
This is more of a set up for the series as a whole as I understand it so we get an odd take about a mysterious illness which has taken the life of the MCs brother, a strange light in the barn, a potential romance with a farmhand, a short battle with an otherworldly creature and then it ends!
July 23, 2021
A well-written short story that apparently is the first book in a series. Matt returns home after The Great War (WWI) and finds his older brother Arthur gravely ill and engrossed in his books and papers. In his last week of life, Arthur raves about a Gate and how it must never be opened, and asks that Matt burns all his books and papers after his death.
After Arthur's death, Matt and his friend Rob, who served together, continue to work the farm, and one evening Rob tells Matt he found something strange out in the barn .....
This story blends historical fiction, being set in the 1920's in England, there's just the beginning of a relationship between Matt and Rob, and then there's The Gate. The build-up is very well done, and I can't wait to learn more about what powers are behind The Gate. 4.5 stars.
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After Arthur's death, Matt and his friend Rob, who served together, continue to work the farm, and one evening Rob tells Matt he found something strange out in the barn .....
This story blends historical fiction, being set in the 1920's in England, there's just the beginning of a relationship between Matt and Rob, and then there's The Gate. The build-up is very well done, and I can't wait to learn more about what powers are behind The Gate. 4.5 stars.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
March 16, 2019
This was great. It's a well written historical short story that sets up/ties in with Lost in Time.
There's the start of a romance but it's very subdued. The focus is on The Gate and Matty's grief, as it should be.
I'm going to start the next one straight away.
There's the start of a romance but it's very subdued. The focus is on The Gate and Matty's grief, as it should be.
I'm going to start the next one straight away.
February 13, 2022
Interesting, to a degree
The setup of the supernatural grabs my attention, but nothing is explained. There's a gate. We don't know why it exists or what's on the other side. We don't know why anything from the other side wants to come to this side and it's never explained.
The next book suggested is set in same year but with different characters so we won't be following up with Matty and Rob. It's a shame, too, because they were just coming to understand what they meant to one another. In 1919, I imagine it was a very big deal for two men to hold hands, even on private farmland. I would have loved to see where this was going.
I like all the elements in this story. I understand that this was something of a teaser but I would have hoped it would have continued on with these men. Since that doesn't seem to be the case I can't rate this story any better.
The setup of the supernatural grabs my attention, but nothing is explained. There's a gate. We don't know why it exists or what's on the other side. We don't know why anything from the other side wants to come to this side and it's never explained.
The next book suggested is set in same year but with different characters so we won't be following up with Matty and Rob. It's a shame, too, because they were just coming to understand what they meant to one another. In 1919, I imagine it was a very big deal for two men to hold hands, even on private farmland. I would have loved to see where this was going.
I like all the elements in this story. I understand that this was something of a teaser but I would have hoped it would have continued on with these men. Since that doesn't seem to be the case I can't rate this story any better.
March 29, 2018
What a wonderful short story. I absolutely loved this. I look forward to exploring more about these wonderfully developed characters in the next installment. They are so well-drawn that you feel you know them and you care about what happens to them.
This is a wonderful introduction to Rob and Matty. Their budding romance is hinted at and we see the story developing as to the mystery of The Gate. It is all executed well, and makes the reader want to find out what happens next.
This is a wonderful introduction to Rob and Matty. Their budding romance is hinted at and we see the story developing as to the mystery of The Gate. It is all executed well, and makes the reader want to find out what happens next.
June 25, 2022
This was a great teaser to what could be a very good series.
June 26, 2018
This is a very brief introduction to an alternative universe, set in post-WWI England. It really feels like a prologue, and I don't expect to see any of these characters again (I could be wrong). It's about a pair of young war veterans who might be interested in each other romantically. A visitor from another world (I think?) appears on the farm, and there is some action. This story does not stand alone, because nothing is explained. It's free on Amazon, but I would say only read it if you plan to read Lost In Time.
April 29, 2019
I’d already read and enjoyed the first book in this series Lost in Time, before realising this one existed, so wanted to read it before I read book 2 in the series.
I thought it introduced the world of the series very well, and for a short piece, it did a great job in not only doing that, but also exploring Matty’s character in particular, and the potential damage being too close to a gate can do. It left me wanting to know more about this world, and these characters.
I liked the description of Arthur and Matty’s brotherly relationship, and how different they are. And also the subtle way in which Rob and Matty are attracted to each other. I thought it fit the time period well as it would be dangerous to just come out and admit their attraction. Being post WWI, it also didn’t shy away from the impact of Matty’s war experience. I liked how Lin introduced both men to the idea of the gate, and the dangers that lurk beyond it. I thought it did what it set out to do – set up and introduce the bigger story, although I would like to see more of Matty and Rob.
I’d recommend The Gate to readers who want a taste of the series, and who enjoy historical settings with a mix of fantasy.
I thought it introduced the world of the series very well, and for a short piece, it did a great job in not only doing that, but also exploring Matty’s character in particular, and the potential damage being too close to a gate can do. It left me wanting to know more about this world, and these characters.
I liked the description of Arthur and Matty’s brotherly relationship, and how different they are. And also the subtle way in which Rob and Matty are attracted to each other. I thought it fit the time period well as it would be dangerous to just come out and admit their attraction. Being post WWI, it also didn’t shy away from the impact of Matty’s war experience. I liked how Lin introduced both men to the idea of the gate, and the dangers that lurk beyond it. I thought it did what it set out to do – set up and introduce the bigger story, although I would like to see more of Matty and Rob.
I’d recommend The Gate to readers who want a taste of the series, and who enjoy historical settings with a mix of fantasy.
January 13, 2018
4-1/2 Stars
As much as I enjoyed Lost in Time, I think I found this short story that introduces the reader to the world that brings Lew back to 1919 in Lost to be even better. I didn't like it better because it is shorter or because it has different characters, no I found it appealed to my historical side a bit more. As a 24/7 caregiver for my mother, I was also drawn to Matty's care of his brother upon returning from the war. Perhaps it is these elements that I found myself giving this short story a slightly higher rating than Lost. The Gate is a lovely look at post-war readjustment and the love Matty has for his brother as well as his attraction to Rob but its also a well written and clever introduction to the time-travel and magical elements that are further explored in Lost in Time.
As much as I enjoyed Lost in Time, I think I found this short story that introduces the reader to the world that brings Lew back to 1919 in Lost to be even better. I didn't like it better because it is shorter or because it has different characters, no I found it appealed to my historical side a bit more. As a 24/7 caregiver for my mother, I was also drawn to Matty's care of his brother upon returning from the war. Perhaps it is these elements that I found myself giving this short story a slightly higher rating than Lost. The Gate is a lovely look at post-war readjustment and the love Matty has for his brother as well as his attraction to Rob but its also a well written and clever introduction to the time-travel and magical elements that are further explored in Lost in Time.
June 4, 2023
After enjoying several short stories by this author, my anticipation for Lost in Time was high. However, I must admit that I didn't encounter the same level of depth and character development as I had previously experienced.
To be clear, Lost in Time is not a bad story by any means. It presents an intriguing world, with a unique and captivating portrayal of magic, accompanied by an enticing plot. However, the characters fell somewhat flat for me, lacking the complexity and nuance that I had hoped for. Additionally, some of their reactions felt out of place and didn't quite align with the circumstances. On a positive note, the romance and attraction were skillfully depicted, taking into account the richly crafted setting, which added a satisfying layer to the narrative.
One aspect that left me wanting more was the book's pacing. It seemed to conclude too swiftly, leaving me with a sense of incompleteness. Although the series continues, this particular volume feels incomplete, and it may have been more effective to combine the volumes into a more cohesive whole.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the second volume is not available in Kindle Unlimited, and I didn't find myself sufficiently captivated by this book to justify purchasing the next installment. This speaks volumes about my overall impression of Lost in Time.
In conclusion, Lost in Time offers an engaging world with its own merits, such as its original magic system and an intriguing plot. However, there is room for improvement when it comes to character development and pacing. While it didn't fully meet my expectations, I acknowledge that others may find enjoyment in this book and may be inclined to continue with the series.
To be clear, Lost in Time is not a bad story by any means. It presents an intriguing world, with a unique and captivating portrayal of magic, accompanied by an enticing plot. However, the characters fell somewhat flat for me, lacking the complexity and nuance that I had hoped for. Additionally, some of their reactions felt out of place and didn't quite align with the circumstances. On a positive note, the romance and attraction were skillfully depicted, taking into account the richly crafted setting, which added a satisfying layer to the narrative.
One aspect that left me wanting more was the book's pacing. It seemed to conclude too swiftly, leaving me with a sense of incompleteness. Although the series continues, this particular volume feels incomplete, and it may have been more effective to combine the volumes into a more cohesive whole.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the second volume is not available in Kindle Unlimited, and I didn't find myself sufficiently captivated by this book to justify purchasing the next installment. This speaks volumes about my overall impression of Lost in Time.
In conclusion, Lost in Time offers an engaging world with its own merits, such as its original magic system and an intriguing plot. However, there is room for improvement when it comes to character development and pacing. While it didn't fully meet my expectations, I acknowledge that others may find enjoyment in this book and may be inclined to continue with the series.
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July 14, 2025I didn't look at the length of this book before I started reading it. So I was reading along, becoming interested in what was going on, and suddenly the story ended. I wondered if I had downloaded just a preview of a complete novel, but I checked and indeed I had the whole story.
The writing style was nice and I was interested in the historical, post Great War setting, but the story doesn't really stand on its own. After looking over other reader reviews, it seems like this should be read after or in conjunction with the author's book Lost in Time, which takes place in the same universe. So I guess this is a matter of me accidentally reading stories in the wrong order.
The writing style was nice and I was interested in the historical, post Great War setting, but the story doesn't really stand on its own. After looking over other reader reviews, it seems like this should be read after or in conjunction with the author's book Lost in Time, which takes place in the same universe. So I guess this is a matter of me accidentally reading stories in the wrong order.
August 12, 2018
An enjoyable short story with mystery and intrigue surrounding time travel. I understand this story relates to another of the author's work. Matty and Rob and interesting characters-- perhaps something special will evolve between them in future stories. The loss of Arthur and the mysterious gate give enough of a tease to keep the reader wanting more.
October 18, 2018
I didn't know this was a prequel to another book. But when i read the blurb of the follow up i noticed that the names of the main characters are different so it looks like a new pairing. Hopefully the characters of this story make an appearance because their story is left hanging (that's why i only gave it two stars).
December 14, 2019
For such a short read this grabbed by attention from the very beginning and held it! I wish there is more about these two MCs as the following books in the series skips forward quite a few years and I remain puzzled as to how these two fit in (although I believe the author has an online blog that offers serial offerings on these two - which I have yet to get to).
September 20, 2021
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Lost in Time before working my way through the series, I was very glad to come across this intriguing prequel which helps to establish the atmospheric Border Magic world that A. L. Lester has created.
Both a lovely story in itself, containing elements of romance and the supernatural, as well as another strong tale in this outstanding series.
Both a lovely story in itself, containing elements of romance and the supernatural, as well as another strong tale in this outstanding series.
April 12, 2020
Great buildup
Loved the build up in this story. Yes, it does end in a cliffhanger of a supernatural sort, but the story line is so intriguing, the plot so engaging that you almost can’t help to buy the next in the series.
Loved the build up in this story. Yes, it does end in a cliffhanger of a supernatural sort, but the story line is so intriguing, the plot so engaging that you almost can’t help to buy the next in the series.
October 22, 2020
3.5stars. Brief story set in Britain post the Great War. Principal characters are farmers, encountering a mystic gate. Being brief, we don't get to know them, or the purpose of the gate. Seemingly a prequel for a series.
May 6, 2021
Great story left me wanting more
The story is great though not long enough. Left me wanting to know more about the characters and what happens to them. Do they fall in love and stay together and find out what happened to the brother. Please continue this story
The story is great though not long enough. Left me wanting to know more about the characters and what happens to them. Do they fall in love and stay together and find out what happened to the brother. Please continue this story
December 23, 2017
Couldnt put it down
Excellent short story I will be looking out for more from this author. I couldn't stop reading this today more pls A..L. Lester
Excellent short story I will be looking out for more from this author. I couldn't stop reading this today more pls A..L. Lester
January 7, 2018
I only gave this three stars because it's a short story. But I did find it interesting and it gives a nice lead in to "Lost In Time".
January 29, 2018
I think this could be described as a preview to a series? Short, but ok. A fantasy story that involves a bit of mystery.
May 27, 2018
More!
March 7, 2019
Teasingly short, but lovely.
March 13, 2019
Well. My curiosity is definitely piqued ... I have sooooo many questions. Definitely not a standalone.
February 7, 2020
It was good, but it ended before it really got started. I'm interested to see where it goes though. I would read more from this author.
January 2, 2021
A prequel of sorts to a series...I got it as a freebie but thought I was a whole book...not sure if I will continue on to the actual book.
March 7, 2021
Un corto interesante, aunque demasiado ambiguo y su narrativa dejaba más preguntas de las que debería. Igual me gustó a pesar que parecía que faltaba más para contar de la pareja.
March 27, 2021
A good start, I shall definitely follow up with the next one. Good intro to two main characters, with enough back story to set the scene.
June 12, 2021
Evocative free short that left me wanting more.
Good sense of time and place - intriguing end...
Edit - I now realize it is the first chapter of a longer book/series.
Good sense of time and place - intriguing end...
Edit - I now realize it is the first chapter of a longer book/series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews