In her debut, Doyle offers a heart-throbbing romance full of magic and royal-court intrigue. Penelope and Persephone Leland, 17-year-old twins, will be presented at court in London of 1837. Outgoing Pen is excited about the balls and parties, whereas bookish Persy is full of dread: She’d much rather continue to study magic and become a teacher. When the two arrive in London, their beloved governess, Ally, goes missing and the sisters try to discover her whereabouts. Persy overhears a plot against the soon-to-be-crowned Queen, and the twins must match their magical abilities against those of a powerful wizard. Amidst all the pomp and glory, Persy struggles with her own tumultuous feelings for the dashing Lord Seton, whom she’s loved since they were children. Is it truly his heart professing love, or is it the result of a magic potion? There are many many plot twists and turns, which the author successfully keeps from unraveling. Though magic plays a major part, the story, with references to historical people and events, is firmly grounded in reality. Fans of historical mysteries will find this a page-turner. (Fiction. 12-15)
