THE LAKE

Written by Manuel Soto

Illustrated by M. Patrick Duggan

The Lake is a heartwarming story about friendship—the kind that lasts a lifetime! True friends are special, and finding one is like discovering a treasure. This book reminds us that even if you don’t see your friend every day or move far away, a real friend will always be there for you. So, hold on tight to the friends who make you laugh, cheer you up, and know you better than anyone. Because a true friend? They’re worth keeping forever!

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Goldenheart Mysteries

Poison and Power - book 1
Dead Mourner’s Grove - book 2

The Last Goldenheart

In a time when civilized young ladies finished school and secured a suitable husband, Georgia Goldenheart was an anomaly. Born to a noble family, the burden falls to her to uphold an ancestral pact by protecting the Three Realms from malicious darkness.

Superb strength.

Unmatchable wit.

In polite society these attributes aren't necessary. Yet when her cousin dies, leaving her as heir to the family business, they become the tools she relies on to survive.

Guided by a kindly wizard, Georgia investigates a mysterious murder. But there's far more to this crime than meets the eye.

Demonic bats.

Blood-thirsty zombies.

Other creepy-crawls that go bump in the night.

Once, Georgia’s biggest worry was finding a husband. Now, she's hoping to make it to the end of the season without being eaten alive.

Goldenheart Magical Mysteries is a glorious combination of fantasy, intrigue, a bit of regal manners, and a dash of humor. Perfect for readers looking for stories of a strong heroine, surrounded by her loyal friends, solving supernatural murders and mysteries!

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“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.”

— Dominick Z, Amazon

“This book was a joy!! I am flabbergasted that this is Mr. Duggan’s first novel. The characters are well fleshed out and intriguing. The way he describes this familiar yet beautiful world, where our heroine and her friends live, draws you in and creates vivid images in your mind. The plot keeps you turning the page. It’s is a fun mix of Jane Austen’s “Emma” with William Goldman’s “The Princess Bride” with a sprinkle vampires and zombies! I adored this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series....please please please hurry (and maybe include an apple fritter recipe or two!)!
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— Tiffany G, Amazon

“This is a wonderful novel, which introduces a world I can’t wait to know more about. As an avid reader of mystery novels, I am pleasantly reminded of Agatha Christie - the clues to the mystery are there if you pay close enough attention. M. Patrick Duggan also weaves in society balls, fashion, matchmaking, manor living, tradition vs modern, magic, and friendship in such a delightful fashion, I am eager to read more.”

— Rebecca E, Amazon