The King's Shilling - (Madigan's Leap) by Sydney Acorn (Paperback)

About the Book

In 18th-century Ireland, tragedy plunges the Delaceys into poverty. Haunted by visions of a handsome stranger, Rose seeks dangerous magic for answers. As war threatens and press-gangs roam, can love survive, or is Rose chasing an illusion?

Book Synopsis

Madigan's Leap Book 1: The King's Shilling

Magic, folklore, and history entwine in this wholesome fantasy romance of love, loss, and destiny-an enchanting romantasy rooted in Celtic folklore, perfect for young adult readers.

In the late 18th century, the Delacey family-once prosperous landowners-live on the rugged coast of a mythic Ireland, in the village of Allanwell. Tragedy strikes, and they are plunged into poverty.

Amidst the turmoil, Rose, the youngest of the four Delacey daughters, is haunted by dreams of a marvellously handsome hero. Desperate to know whether he truly exists, Rose seeks the help of a local wise woman steeped in druidic lore, who casts a spell to uncover the truth. But ancient magic is never without risk-will Rose live to encounter the man from her visions, or is it all illusion? Will she find true love-and if so, how long may happiness last?

For a Royal Navy press-gang is raiding up and down the coast, seizing young men to fight in the war against France. No able-bodied fellow is safe. What will this mean for the villagers of Allanwell, for the Delaceys, and for Rose and the dream-bound warrior whose face she knows by heart?

As rumours of war grow louder, Rose must decide whether to hold on to hope-or forge a new path through enchanted landscapes and the pull of fate.

Review Quotes

"A mesmerizing tale of love and adventure. Every page brims with wonder and leaves you looking forward to the next instalment."

Cecilia Dart-Thornton, author of The Bitterbynde Trilogy

"An enchanting blend of magic and passion, this book swept me into a beautifully crafted world where love and destiny collide-utterly unputdownable!"

Barb Dwyer, author of Cyberchicks in Love

"With vivid world-building and a romance that sparkles like starlight, this story is a breathtaking journey into the heart of fantasy."

Lee Cake, author of The Stonehenge Cipher