EPPIE Award Finalist for Historical Romance Novel!
After receiving a gold coin, Amanda suddenly becomes governess to the sister of a duke. Is her good fortune a coincidence, or is it Fate?
A MAGICAL TOKEN--When Amanda Barclay receives a magic token as a gift from a stranger, she is more than skeptical about whether this gold coin can change her fortunes. But then the very man who captured her heart years ago suddenly appears. Is it destiny or cruel fate? Does he even remember her? She desperately needs the position he offers as governess, but how can she endure being near to a man so beyond her reach?
A DIFFERENCE IN RANK--Marcus Hamilton, Duke of Yarborough, is a man burdened by family and political responsibilities. He does not have the time nor the inclination to dally with women beneath his station. But a chance meeting throws him together with Mandy, the engaging young sprite from his past, causing him to reevaluate his beliefs. For once in his life, the call of love beckons far stronger than the duties and obligations of his position.
Excerpt
Clearing his throat, Marcus handed her the basket. “You’d best be getting home, my moppet. Shall I escort you?”
“No, thank you kindly. Do you also return to bed?” Amanda asked.
“Ah, I am doomed to wander the woods ‘til sleep comes to claim me. You see, dear Mandy, I suffer from insomnia. That is why I happen to be out at this ungodly hour.”
He took a step away from her, then bowed. “‘Tis of no import. My thanks for a diverting evening.”
An unfamiliar ache settled over her heart. She did not understand it; nor could she explain it. For some unknown reason, she did not want Marcus to leave. “Wait! I have something that might help you.”
She pulled a small pouch from her basket. “Steep this in boiling water—chamomile tea lets you sleep.”
Marcus’ grin made him appear younger than his years. “What’s this? Are you a traveling apothecary?”
“I want to heal people when I grow up,” she mumbled at her bare toes. No one ever took her ambition seriously.
He accepted the pouch, then lifted her chin. “A noble aspiration. However, I do believe you are already grown up, while I, on the other hand, have a long way to go.”
To her surprise, he brushed his warm lips against her cheek. “I will remember tonight... and your kindness forever.” He turned and walked away.
Amanda skimmed her fingertips across her cheek. Goodness, Midsummer Eve really was a magical night.
She glanced back in his direction, but he had disappeared into the darkness. Humming a little ditty, she skipped down the dirt path towards home. A sudden thought stopped her. What if Lydia’s spell worked? What if Amanda did see her future husband? After all, Marcus’ image had gazed up at her and he did have a certain appeal.
A broad smile stretched her face. Maybe she would see him in the morning.
Professional Reviews
Sime-gen Reviews
Gloriously Magical and loads of fun!... Susanne Marie Knight has taken a magical plot device and whipped up a charming tale in THE MAGIC TOKEN. Her characters are full blown and interesting, while the minor characters add spice. Ms. Knight's writing is bright, and full of that Regency flavor readers enjoy. A sprightly romp which makes for a blast of a read!"
Reviewed by Sime-gen Reviews, Nan Doporto
ParaNormalRomance Reviews
“THE MAGIC TOKEN is an enchanting take on the Cinderella fairytale, complete with an evil step-mother and fairy godmother. This is a well-researched, well-written story with wonderful characterizations. The duke, who has overcome his abusive childhood, is a great hero and Amanda is a caring and compassionate herione. There was, also, a very pleasing secondary romance between the squire's son an dthe Portuguese woman's grandaughter. THE MAGIC TOKEN was a great Regency read, with some magical elements. If you like fairytales, give THE MAGIC TOKEN a try."
Reviewed by ParaNormalRomance Reviews, Marlene Breakfield
Visionary Insight Press
5 Stars! Another fine book from Ms. Knight! Her meticulous research into this period piece shines throughout this wonderful story. From beginning to end, her words paint the scenes with rich visuals which enrich the story line of the two main characters. You will be invested in this story after just a few pages and will not want to put it down. This book deserves its place among the other novels of Ms. Knight.
