Poison and Power: Goldenheart Mysteries Book 1

by M. Patrick Duggan

The strong-willed Georgia Goldenheart is determined to protect the Three Realms from the malicious darkness that threatens it, no matter the cost. Born to a noble family, she must uphold an ancestral pact using her superb strength and wit, attributes that become invaluable when her cousin dies and she is left as the heir of the family business. With the help of a kindly wizard, she investigates a mysterious murder wrapped in the danger of demonic bats, blood-thirsty zombies, and other creepy-crawls. The stakes are high, as Georgia strives to make it to the end of the season unscathed. If you enjoyed the magical mystery and strong female lead in books like The School for Good and Evil and The Magicians , you'll love Goldenheart Magical Mysteries . Buy now before the price changes and start your journey with the brave and determined Georgia Goldenheart!

Genres: Fantasy

282 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2020

Reviews

[Alan Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a LOVELY mix of Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, and J.R.R. Tolkein! The characters were fascinating and well developed, and I never thought I'd be so intrigued with what everyone was wearing. I loved the tales surrounding Lady Georgia's sword and the fight scenes were fantastic. Add to that, an Agatha Christie mystery with a little J.R.R. Tolkein is amazing. I am SO looking forward to more books from this series.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a joy to read

Very clean storyline with characters you really want to be your friends. Georgia Goldenheart is fierce, but kind; strong, but gentle; smart, but humble - my favorite type of heroine.
I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series - get to writing M. Patrick Duggan!!

[Caryl Huffstetler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Georgia Goldenheart is an engaging protagonist with a cadre of intriguing friends and allies that we meet at a challenging moment in her life. She is facing a new and unusual position in life in a society very similar to Victorian Era England. Yet, her new position places her outside and above the conventions of her class as George learns that magic is real and she is now gifted with a magical blade and a job as a defender against magical enemies. Then, before she can grasp the reality of this she is plunged into a murder mystery that begins to unveil the truth of those magical enemies.
The plot is intriguing, the pace rapid and the characters novel. I felt like I was riding a runaway train. I look forward to seeing Duchess George again.
How do I know she will be back? The last line: FINI (POUR L'INSTANT)

[K Lorenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read

I found the novel a fantastic read and quite a wonderful fantasy novel. I hope to see more stories of the three realms in the near future.

[Sheila Noonen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been just a delightful break from the pandemic. This story blends fantasy, mystery, and high society into a wonderful world-building experience. What's more, the women are all sources of power and friendship. This is the type of story Jane Austen wished she could have written, but the world hadn't yet come to believe that ladies are full people. The main character is delightfully sharp and observant, and humbly downplays her kick-ass power as a dragon slayer. Her allies are an extremely sharp best friend, and a wizard in blue. This was an all-around good time.

[Diana Fletcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poison and Power: Goldenheart Mysteries Book 1 is an engaging fantasy mystery with a strong, likable heroine at its center. Georgia Goldenheart is refreshingly different from the typical noble lady, clever, capable, and thrown into danger whether society approves or not.
The story mixes supernatural threats, a murder investigation, and social expectations with an easy, entertaining flow. Dark elements like demonic creatures and magic are balanced with humor and charm, keeping the tone fun rather than heavy. The mystery itself is intriguing and unfolds at a comfortable pace, pulling you along without feeling rushed.
Overall, this is a solid and enjoyable series opener. It’s a great choice for readers who like magical mysteries, a confident female lead, and a story that blends danger, wit, and a touch of elegance.

[Dominick Zurlo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awaiting the next in the series

This is a fun romp through fantasy with a complex mix of myth, monsters, and mystery (not necessarily in order). I thoroughly enjoyed the whimsical nature and development of the storyline with an interesting mythos emerging throughout the book. It had left me wanting more and I look forward to the nectar fantastical mystery.

[Glenda Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delightful Read

Georgia becomes a duchess and a knight protector all at once. This book is a delightful mesh of magic, in which most people do not believe,band fashion and society resembling Regency or perhaps even Victorian times. If you like magic mixed with manners, you will like this. I certainly hope Mr. Duggan writes more in this world.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

Well-fleshed-out characters with intriguing attributes, well-paced progress, and nicely-done investigation/conclusion!
Would highly recommend! I am eager to start the second in the series!