Grace Argento
The Poison Plot (Lost Empire #1)
The Poison Plot (Lost Empire #1)
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A mother's legacy. A daughter’s destiny. A court torn in two.
Marguerite Bonheur, a woman of unparalleled intellect, flees an impending arranged marriage to find refuge at Mrs. Prosper's Academy for Young Ladies. But her escape is just the beginning.
In a world shadowed by her mother's legacy, Marguerite becomes ensnared in a treacherous game of courtly power and ancient rivalries. The King's mistress, once her mother's closest ally turned fierce foe, harbors a deep-seated hatred that threatens to consume them both.
Amid the academy’s hallowed halls, Marguerite’s brilliance captures the attention of the Crown’s Spymaster, who recruits her into his shadowy network. She also draws the eye of Prince Armel – an enigmatic figure at court.
As an unexpected twist of fate propels her into the heart of a covert mission for the Kingdom of Caeledon, forbidden magic begins to claw its way back into a world that has long forbidden it.
Simmering with intrigue, slow-burn romance, and one woman’s quest to prove herself, The Poison Plot is perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Melanie Cellier, and C. F. E. Black. Embark on this riveting adventure today!
Tropes and Content Levels
- Espionage
- Court Intrigue
- Academy Setting
- Strangers-to-Friends-to-Lovers
- Slow Burn
- Snarky Friends
- Enigmatic Male Lead
- Independent Female Lead
- Romance Level: yearning glances and brief touches of the hand
- Violence Level: some fight scenes; mentions of wounds and bleeding; no gory details
- Profanity Level: No swearing. In-world oaths only.
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A very fun read. Loved the heroine and her friends and their growth into themselves
it starts off with going to a finishing school, but it's a lot deeper than that. Though the story itself starts off with a common trope, the well written characters, and writing style help to pave the plot so nothing feels rushed. Along with a compelling storytelling voice, we have a variety of characters with different personalities who have developed throughout the story, and a protagonist who has a tendency to engage in snarky banter to put a smile on your face. Though this is a school setting, it's different than the common academia tropes and settings nowadays, firstly with an older protagonist. Yes, our heroine is in her mid twenties, but regardless, it still makes for a great YA novel with the writing style. Secondly, yes, we have a school setting, but it's not what is commonly presented. think smaller classes and specialized courses for noble girls. Third, it's not romance based; although I believe that there will be a stronger aspect of it in the subplot of the next installments, but it's a clean read, one definitely suitable for young adults and teens of all ages. This automatically is a bonus in my opinion. And fourth, the world building is fascinating. I mean, to have not only a map but an entirely new construct of time is absolutely creative and really helps build the setting. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series continues.
A fun, regency era fantasy, complete with an intelligent, observant, cool headed heroine; a fantasy espionage school that is the sort every girl secretly dreams of attending; the most loveable and supporting friends; court intrigue and mystery; and a handsome prince. The book takes place over a year, and going through the months and seasons with the heroine leaves you feeling like maybe you got to attend school with her too and grow your own confidence along the way. The worldbuilding includes time keeping, history, etiquette and customs with a dash of mystery and ancient ways potentially resurrecting. An entertaining first installment to the trilogy. Looking forward to reading the next books!
I have read traditionally published books that did not have half the heart and soul that this book does. The characters are wonderful, the plot is captivating, and pacing is great. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up.
“The Poison Plot" by Grace Argento weaves a captivating tale in a kingdom divided, where Marguerite Bonheur grapples with her mother's legacy and her own destiny. As she hones her secret skills with the Crown’s Spymaster, Marguerite becomes a linchpin in preventing the Kingdom of Caeledon from descending into chaos. Amidst old rivalries and the specter of dark magic, her exceptional intellect becomes her greatest asset. Argento expertly navigates a web of courtly intrigues, involving the King's mistress, a mysterious prince, and echoes of her mother's past. Facing an unexpected crisis, Marguerite must confront a challenge that could reshape her world and the fate of the royal family. Argento's skillful storytelling keeps readers on the edge, delivering a thrilling narrative of power, loyalty, and the enduring strength of an exceptional young woman.