First-Degree Magic

by J.M. Linkhart

Bernice Chandler is a woman with a sword and a lot of problems it won't fix. She's got a ritual murder case on her hands and an angel appearing in her dreams again, a sure sign of disaster just around the corner. To make matters worse, a ghost from her past has returned to haunt her, threatening the peace and stability she's carefully built for herself in Chicago. To banish it, she strikes a devil's bargain with a bootlegging gangster, who is only too happy to oblige her-for a price.

Valentino Morandi is a demi-demon with a curse he can't wait to slip. For eight years he's been bound to the city by the Order of Joan, but that's about to end. He only needs one more item to free himself, and when a knight of the Order comes around needing a favor, he can't wait to make her an offer. But Bernie isn't the only one whose ghosts have come back calling.

Jack Donovan is a detective with a history he wants to keep buried in the trenches of Europe. One slip and secrets like his have a tendency of getting out, and a secret freed is a secret hard to control. He's hoping that his new partner Chandler can keep one, and maybe even help him with designs of his own beyond their immediate case. But they must catch a killer first-and survive.

Secrets, lies, and magic bind the three together as they race to solve a series of tarot-style murders. If they fail, the killer could summon forth an evil of the highest degree, upsetting the balance between the infernal and divine and leaving Chicago burning in hellfire.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical

456 pages, Paperback

Published May 6, 2025

Reviews

[Lukasz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The First Degree Magic is dark, bloody, and full of demonic bargains. Set in an alternate 1927 Chicago, it follows Bernice Chandler, a knight of the Order of Joan. Bernice is investigating a string of ritualistic murders with the help of a weary detective and a bootlegging demi-demon. It’s a promising setup, and it mostly delivers.

Let’s start with the good. The setting is fantastic - Linkhart built a cool world where magic is an integral part of history and daily life. Bernice is a battle-hardened, no-nonsense heroine with a past full of ghosts (literally and figuratively), while Tino, the demi-demon gangster, brings charm, danger, and moral grayness. I loved their reluctant partnership.

Now, the rougher edges. The prose is sometimes beautifully immersive, sometimes trying way too hard. There are moments where the writing gets so dense that I had to hack my way through it. And for a book this long, the worldbuilding sometimes feels oddly thin. Chicago in this universe has a wildly different history, but outside of a few key details, it still reads like Generic Roaring Twenties City with Magic.

Anyway, I found The First Degree Magic worth a read. Fans of dark fantasy, capable heroines, and dangerous but charming demons should check it out.

[Denise Ruttan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked a lot of things about First-Degree Magic. I was really hoping for Carnival Row meets The Tainted Cup except with paranormal creatures and magic instead of fae, but I felt like it had a bit of missed potential.

For one thing the book was longer than it needed to be. I frequently found myself having to push through the story as it was heavy on police procedural and magic system descriptions, which I usually find boring, and light on character development and worldbuilding. I wanted the mystery to be a little more twisty with less obvious misdirection and I predicted the killer early.

I liked Bernie's character the best, a fearless knight from the Order of Joans who has an interesting back story. Her back story just sort of dribbled off though and didn't factor much into the plot. I loved her friendship with the demi-demon Tino and their grudging respect for each other. I felt her slow-burn romance with the mysterious occultist police officer was forced and I liked them better as friends. I did like the history of the war effort and the use of sorcerers, and how this factors into the mystery and touches the characters' lives.

For such a long book I think I just wanted more worldbuilding. This was a thrilling gaslamp universe with an intriguing alternate timeline but it could have been set anywhere in historical America the way it was written. I wanted more color, at least more vivid descriptions of food and cultural traditions. Instead it was a typical paranormal fantasy. More about that unique world and how that affected the characters would have made this 4 stars for me... and a less predictable mystery.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bella Toric · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the cover so much of this book that I needed to get my hands on it to read it! The plot seemed really interesting and I couldn't wait to dive into it. The characters were really interesting and the plot hooked me from the get go. The magic system was minimal, and the world building definitely could have used some time to really flesh itself out!


There is definitely room for the characters and story to continue growing, so hopefully there is more to come that can fully realize the potential of the story and where it could go!

Thank you NetGalley for an eARC!

[Ashley Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

First-Degree Magic by J.M. Linkhart is a unique debut that blends historical urban fantasy and murder mystery together. Intense world building, unique plot, and interesting characters are some highlights of this book!

In an alternate 1920's Chicago, magic is woven into daily life. Bernie (Bernice) Chandler is a knight with the Order of Joan, a group of demonslayers sworn to protect the city. With her sharp mind and the help of Jack Donovan and Tino Morandi, they are tasked with solving a string of Tarot themed murders. Secrets and lies force all three to work together before the killer can set forth an evil more powerful than any of them could imagine. Can our badass magical detective Bernie, her secretive partner Jack and the cursed demi-demon Tino stop the killer before they unleash hellfire on Chicago?

This was definitely a different genre then I usually read but the summary intrigued me so I was excited when I got approved by NetGalley. The setting is great, where magic is woven into every part of daily life. Out protagonist Bernie is badass and will take no sh!t from anyone, but also has a ton of ghosts, literally and figuratively, in her past. I did feel like this was a bit too long, 456 pages, some parts got to be a bit repetitive but for a new to me author and unfamiliar genre, I enjoyed this debut! Can't wait to see where this story goes!

Thank you to NetGalley, J.M. Linkhart, and Goblin Booth Productions for this ARC!! Publication date: May 6th 2025.

[Liana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. The magic system and world is interesting, even if just hinted at rather than thoroughly explored. The characters and their history really drive the book and make it what it is. The mystery of the murders and investigation was interesting, and I was along for the ride rather than trying to solve it myself -- that's not really the vibe of this book, I feel. You're not given the pieces to do so, it's more watching the way the characters interact around it. The chemistry between the characters was the only issue to me. It made sense to me and I enjoyed what it developed into, though I didn't necessarily feel it naturally on the page until the very last conflict. A lot of threads are left hanging and a sequel set up, explaining why Bernie's roommate was a POV though she's very much in the background of this book. I'll be interested in reading it and continuing in this world and watching how especially the antagonistic friendships grow.

Thanks to Netgalley and Goblin Booth Productions for an ARC copy of this book.

[Jason S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book. The characters hit, the plot is quite strong.

Will probably read again sometime.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

He looked like a depraved movie star, with his gaudy glasses and slicked-back platinum hair. Acted like one too, nothing but oozing arrogance

Sorcerers were like angry cats, they didn't like to share territory to power.

I was thrilled to receive a free ARC of this book from NetGalley and Goblin Booth Productions in exchange for my honest review - Thank you for taking a chance on me as a new ARC reader.

4.75 ✨, rounded up to 5✨

First-Degree Magic is an urban fantasy mystery set in an alternate-history 1927 Chicago, shaped by the Prohibition and the aftermath of a magic-infused World War I. The spellbinding first instalment in the Degrees of Magic series, follows the adventures of three compelling characters: Knight Maiden Bernie Chandler, her detective partner Jack Donovan, and their reluctant ally, demi-demon and crime lord Timo Morandi. Together, they unravel Tarot-laden murders terrorizing the city while grappling with their own hidden secrets and supernatural besties haunting their every move.

⚗️The characters in this story are undeniably captivating. Linkhart masterfully blends all the tropes I adore into her three protagonists.
Bernie is everything you could ever want in Knight Maiden paladin with a twist - her Templar-inspired coat and sword are paired with a 1920s bob, fashion, and lipstick, bringing an urban flair to her strength and bravery. Bernie in First-Degree Mahic was everything I enjoyed from Dresden Files, but with feminine power, class and grace. Secondly, Valentino "Tino" Morandi gave me such strong '90s Spike from Buffy vibes (Maybe its the hair), and I instantly adored everything about him. I sincerely hope he's just as prominent in the next installment (which I will definitely be picking up!).

⚗️The supernatural monsters featured in First-Degree Magic are truly terrifying. I felt such a tingle of fear when reading about Gollum's posed as dress makers mannequins. The story delivers all your favourite supernature beasties, with an added sense of dread that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The end sequence through the funhouse trapped with magical illusions felt especially final finale t.v drama to me, and I ate up every page

⚗️ The pacing throughout this book is absolutely spot-on. There's never a dull moment, as the narrative flows effortlessly from one thrilling event to the next. Whether it's heart-pounding action scenes, mysterious twists, or quick witted dialogue, each moment builds upon the last, maintaining a steady momentum.

⚗️ Side note: I also enjoy any book that manages to weave the title into the main body, it adds such an extra layer of enjoyment.

⚔️ My only critique - I would have loved a more detailed description of our gal Bernie. We get them for almost every other character but none for Bernie.


This book is perfect for anyone who thinks the world needs more stories featuring paladins - really why is that such a hard trope to find. If you loved T Kingfishers Saints of Steel but wanted a female paladin, or if you enjoyed Jim Butchers Dresden Files but would prefer a female perspective. If you loved the monster-of-the-week episodes from Supernatural or have a soft spot for '90s bad boys with bleached hair. Add it to your TBR in time for May 2025!

TW: Moderate: Violence, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Child abuse, Medical Trauma and Death of parent

[Zoe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I desperately want to like this. I’ve tried to read it multiple times. Every time, within five minutes, I put it down and go do something — anything — else. I think it’s the descriptions that are doing me in; a character puffed up while baking. Someone crowed a response. I’m finding the word usage so annoying I can’t actually pay attention to the characters or the story.

I may try again at a later point, because the premise is right up my alley, but for now, I’m having to put it down and move on.

[Shelby Underwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. No character is flat, even the most unassuming ones. Linkhart has an incredible way of getting you wrapped up in her world and curious how its politics function with all of the characters so beholden to its rules. You learn how this world works through witnessing the characters in living motion. Every character has their unique storyline and dynamics with each other. I found myself interested not only in how the mystery unfolded, but how it would change the characters Linkhart effortlessly made me care for as their lives unravel. I would 1000% give it a read. You never have to wonder if why a character is making a decision because, even when you don't have the facts behind their actions, you still recognize the consistency in them. You learn quickly how these characters make decisions through the unique shifts in writing technique between perspective characters.

Linkhart has put love into every piece of this work, from its narrative clearly having been crafted for a place of passion and forethought to the smallest details within the project itself. The designs on the covers, small, but iconic insignias for characters to signal whose perspective you are about to read are a labor of love not just to put a book out, but to put out something that tells a story in every aspect beyond the writing.

Nothing feels contrived as every sentence contributes to a cohesive world and plot, but if you prefer your books with a minimalist approach to writing, this isn't for you. Linkhart's prose and style of writing flows well and guides you into the thoughts of the person you are reading. The ways that Linkhart describes scenes is gripping, but no skilled hypnotist is capable of hypnotizing you if you don't want to be hypnotized and Linkhart will not grip you if you go into this without the desire to be gripped. These characters are multi-faceted and flawed, so if you don't want characters in media to make choices that you don't fully agree is the “right choice,” this isn’t the book for you. As you read about each character and how they have carved out their own places in the world, you come to understand what choices they make and find consistency in the ways they react in every scene. I loved all of the characters, but as far as the two main POV characters, here are my closing thoughts:

Bernie:
Bernie is a deeply moving character and truly the heart of this story. She is the glue that connects each of the plotlines together. While I think Tino and Bernie are both important characters in this story and those we will read in the future, Bernie is both the main character in my heart and, in my opinion, the objectively correct choice to start the book off with. We open with the investigation of a crime scene with Bernie fresh from a club in her flapper dress while attempting to maintain professionalism with people who spite her for the larger organization that she is a knight of. Every scene with Bernie takes you down a rabbit hole to her past, how it has come to haunt her present, and none of it is pain for pain's sake. Every struggle and frustration Bernie faces is grounded through the pragmatic lens it takes on magic and the paperwork that comes with operating within such a large organization while maintaining the extraordinary and magical in ways that fit seamlessly together. Even in the first scene, you are made to understand the local detectives' perspective and why they treat "Joans" the ways they treat Bernie. You also understand why the knights clash with the police when the two organizations seem to be the rock and the hard place you have to stand between and hope their red tape and paperwork don't lead to the mishandling of fragile or dangerous evidence. The Joans and the police need each other-- extremely begrudgingly. You learn all you need to know about Bernie within her first scene. She prefers to think more than she speaks and she doesn't deal in half-formed inferences. She is empathetic, but has long since learned the professionalism necessary of someone working as a knight. The more you learn about Bernie, the more you understand where she's coming from, but even when you don't know what the full story has planned for her, you can feel her personality through the pages.

Tino: (Take a drink every time I make a demon joke.)
Everything about Tino can be described in a word: Theatrical. The iconic image of the laughing and crying faces of the theater depicted throughout the performing arts world are the extremes of the emotions they strive to bring to you. He walks a fine line between comedy and tragedy like he walks the line between human and demon in a suit worth too much money and designer cigarettes to show you that he’s not like other girls (read: bootleggers). In the media, you witness the concept of a hedonistic demon with a devil-may-care lifestyle, but they don’t often come in the form of Tino. You don’t have to wonder what his goals are because they are the kind anyone would want if they were in his position: freedom. And he’s going to get it come hell or high water. Tino operates within his own self-interest and makes working with him a living hell if he doesn’t benefit from the end result of his labor. He is petty, spiteful, and bitter, but there are these brief glimpses of humanity not necessarily just within the present story, but in the background of the book. You don’t see Tino secretly having a heart of gold by sneaking around performing community-building acts or donating to charities. You witness him and the real extent of the desperation of a man trying to run, but having exhausted all else with nowhere else to go. He balances out Bernie’s perspective in morality, but not in their desires. His story walks beside Bernie’s to show their dynamic shift from one of reluctant familiarity to one of dependency in seemingly impossible situations. Through Tino’s perspective, we explore ultimately the intricacies of a man seeking freedom through pushing back in any way that he can find.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

J.M. Linkhart’s First-Degree Magic is a gripping debut that blends historical urban fantasy with a murder mystery, set in an alternate 1920s Chicago. It drew me in with its richly detailed worldbuilding, compelling characters, and fast-paced plot.

The setting was a real highlight. Linkhart crafts a fascinating version of 1920s Chicago where magic is woven into daily life. I loved the inclusion of non-Christian magical traditions, which added depth and diversity to the world. The appendix at the back was a great touch, offering extra details on the book’s unique cultural elements.

The protagonist, Bernie (Bernice) Chandler, is a badass magical detective from the Order of St. Joan, a group of demon-slayers sworn to protect the city. Armed with a magic sword and a no-nonsense attitude, she felt like a mix of Buffy and Van Helsing, and I enjoyed following her journey. Her partnership with Jack Donovan, a magician working for the police, added another layer of tension. The police and the Joans have a complicated relationship, and Donovan himself is a layered character with secrets that unfold as the story progresses.

Then there’s Valentino Morandi, aka Tino, a powerful demi-demon and Chicago gangster. Tino is wealthy, charming, and dangerous, but his reality is more complicated. He’s magically bound to the city by the Order and is desperate to break free. His relationship with Joey, his right-hand man, gives insight into his past, making him sympathetic despite his criminal approach. As the plot unfolds, it turns out Tino and Donovan have shared history, which makes their present-day interactions even more tense and intriguing.

The book’s magic system is another great element, one that I've been thinking about since. The title First-Degree Magic gives a hint towards the layered nature of magic in this world, where different practitioners have varying levels of power, with demonic magic being especially dangerous. I loved the variety on display, from a baker who could scry using her dough to magical, compass-like artifact that gives instructions to find lost objects. However, the price of magic is steep, with many practitioners risking possession or corruption by demons.

The pacing of the story was excellent, with plenty of twists and tense moments. I enjoyed the historical vibes, and the author used great little details to embed me in the world. From Bernie’s beaded party dress to Tino’s gangster slang, everything felt authentic to the era. I found myself reading in extra sessions just to see what happened next.

That said, the final showdown left me a bit puzzled. The climax takes place in a building designed as a trap for Donovan, yet Bernie and Tino enter first, dealing with obstacles meant for him while he waits outside. It seemed odd that they didn’t at least attempt to bring him in sooner, especially since he does eventually join the action. The ending also felt abrupt, raising more questions than it answered. While this sets things up for a sequel, I wished for a bit more resolution.

Overall, First-Degree Magic is an excellent start to what I hope will be a series. The characters are complex, the setting is immersive, and the magic is fascinating. Despite some minor structural issues in the climax, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and will definitely be picking up the next book. If you’re a fan of something like Ben Aaronovitch’s Rivers of London series but want something with a roaring-twenties flair, this is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to Netgalley and Goblin Booth Productions for a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Rianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher & the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Imagine a world where the Roaring Twenties are crackling with more than just jazz and bootlegged booze—where magic weaves through the streets of Chicago like cigarette smoke in a speakeasy. First-Degree Magic by J.M. Linkhart delivers exactly that, blending Prohibition-era grit with an undercurrent of supernatural intrigue. Think Boardwalk Empire meets The Dresden Files, with a dash of The Maltese Falcon for good measure.

At the heart of this spellbinding noir is Bernice Chandler, a Knight Maiden of the Order of Joan (yes, as in THAT Joan). She’s armed with a sword, a sharp mind, and a mission—tracking down a string of Tarot-themed murders that are just a little too infernal for comfort. Helping—or maybe just tolerating—her is Detective Jack Donovan, a man with more secrets than a backroom poker game, and Tino Morandi, a bootlegging demi-demon with a curse hanging over him like an unpaid bar tab. Together, they unravel a mystery that threatens to tip Chicago into a full-on supernatural turf war.

The worldbuilding here? Chef’s kiss. This isn’t just a story that happens to take place in the 1920s; Linkhart brings the era to life, from the clandestine jazz clubs to the smoky backrooms where deals (both mundane and magical) go down. The magic system is seamlessly woven into the setting, feeling like a natural part of the world rather than an overlay. It’s the kind of book where you can practically hear the clink of glasses and the distant notes of a saxophone while demons lurk in the shadows.

The characters are a motley crew of troublemakers, and I mean that in the best way. Bernice is tough but not invulnerable, Tino is the kind of roguish charmer you know is bad news but root for anyway, and Jack… well, Jack broods like it’s his full-time job. Their dynamic crackles with tension, banter, and just the right amount of reluctant camaraderie.

Now, if I had one bone to pick, it’d be that the pacing sometimes stumbles—like a flapper who’s had one too many sidecars. Some sections drag a little, and I found myself wishing for a slightly tighter edit. But honestly? The rich atmosphere and compelling mystery more than make up for it.

If you’re into historical fantasy with a noir twist, First-Degree Magic is worth the read. It’s stylish, immersive, and just the right amount of dangerous. So pour yourself a drink (preferably something illicit), step into the shadows, and prepare to be enchanted.

[Jensen Potrykus · Rating 5 out of 5]

First-Degree Magic has all the makings of a magnetizing murder mystery with the added elements of a fantasy world. Bernie is a Joan, a detective of magical crimes. She finds herself on the case for a bloody double homicide with etchings of a ritual. Unfortunately for her, she has to deal with not only the flaky-at-best Tino, a demi (human/demon), but also an occultist from the police, Donovan. While they work to prevent more of these gruesome murders in a 1920's Chicago, there is more to uncover than just who the murderer is.

There is so much going on with all three main characters that the ending still has you wondering what will happen next. Half the time I couldn't take Tino seriously because the way he talked felt so Looney Tunes, but I also just loved him too much to care. He has more heart than any full human ♡ I am curious to see what happens with Tino and The Order considering certain events in the book.

Donovan is not what he seems, and yet perhaps exactly what you think? He is running, and it seems that those demons of his past have caught up now.

Bernie, of the three, may be the least interesting. Her background is the most fully explored, which also means there is the least amount of questions in the end. It just leaves me wondering more about Tino, Donovan, and their history.

This is definitely a great pick for both mystery and fantasy/paranormal readers alike! Highly recommend to read with a friend of book club and theorize together.

Thanks to NetGalley and Goblin Booth Productions for providing an eARC of First-Degree Magic in exchange for this honest review.

[boogleloo · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 stars: This is the first entry in Linkhart's Degrees of Magic series which is a Historical Fantasy Mystery that takes place in Chicago, 1927 and features a troubled woman who's an Order of Joan Knight-Maiden, a demi-demon bootlegger bound to the city by the Order of Joan and a detective with a secretive history must work together to solve a series of tarot-style murders before the killer summons forth an evil of the highest degree, upsetting the balance between the infernal and divine and leaving Chicago burning in hellfire. With plenty of plot twists, Linkhart has written a nicely paced mystery that's well balanced and will leave you on edge until the final reveal. The world building is interesting and well done, I really like Linkhart's alternate historical take mixing multicultural and religious elements (without getting preachy.) Written in multiple POV, Linkhart's writing and character work are excellent; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining likable. Bernie, Donovan and Tino are complete opposites and are at opposite purposes in normal circumstances but manage to work together to solve the case. Each one has complex and unique issues and I appreciated how Linkhart unfolded their pasts and stories. With tact and sensitivity, Linkhart touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and CWs. Interesting start to a new series, can't wait to see what's next.

I received this eARC thanks to Goblin Booth Productions in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

[Icywolf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I have mixed feelings about First Degree Magic. I liked the writing style. People and places were well defined and visual. The story developed well through the end. We very clearly had a book-level story arc that was resolved inside a larger arc that will presumably be continued in later books.

The main characters were interesting and one of them grew and changed significantly in the course of the book, but the other two did not. The development of who and what these individuals were and how they fit into the overall story arc also changed significantly over the course of the story. This did keep the mystery and suspense going.

The world building was minimal - only important bits were explained, most bits were just there, for example a protective bracelet that might or might not have been helpful but whose use was never explained, even when it functioned.. Maybe this will come with future volumes (this is clearly intended to be an first in the series book), but it felt unsatisfying.

The setting is an alt-history rendition of post Great War Roaring Twenties Chicago (thugs, flappers and all) with an overarching magic system having 3 degrees of magic. As you would expect from the title, the degrees and who has them matters quite a lot - read the book to see.

My overall opinion: good potential not fully realized.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, publishers, and NetGalley for the access to this e-book ARC in exchange for my honest review.

2.75/5 stars

I really, really wanted to love this book. The theme is intriguing, the mystery had me in the beginning, and the possibilities were really there for this story. Unfortunately, this book was far, far too long and tried to achieve so many different aspects, which resulted in lack of depth in most. I enjoyed Bernie as a character but others fell flat. The world building didn’t feel as impactful as I expected, considering it is introduced as a historical fantasy. This is not necessarily a con for me, I just thought the time period would have more of a presence based on how it is described in the beginning. After I got to about 35% of the book, it felt more challenging to want to come back to this story and my engagement seriously floundered as I got to the end.

I enjoyed Linkhart’s writing style and I think this story/series has a lot of potential in the future. It’s clear the author has many interesting plot points and avenues to write about. I do enjoy the idea of mysteries set in a fantasy world and really believe this author can nail it with the future books. I do recommend folks picking it up if it sounds interesting to them because I think this is something a bit fresher in the genre as of late.

[Sannie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley + Goblin Booth Productions for the free e-Arc of this book!

Overall, I felt that First-Degree Magic had a ton of intriguing elements: a unique magical world and society, a plucky POC character that acts consistently/logically, as well as endearing morally grey characters. It was written pretty well and had a lot of great, creative twists that drew on a diverse background of mythology and witchcraft.

While those elements kept me going throughout the story, I couldn't help but feel that the ending left something to be desired. It left many questions unanswered and made for an unsatisfying conclusion. It felt like half the major questions were never answered and the ways in which crucial information was revealed was a bit confusing at points - to the point where I felt lost and had to go back to figure out what they were talking about. I also wished it would've immersed me in the world a little better. I kept forgetting it was supposed to be set in the 1920's and when it was finally brought up I was a bit startled by it.

3/5 because although it left me a bit frustrated, it was only because it was setup to be something so good. I'd be interested to see what else could come of this world/magical society!

[Sara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Goblin Booth Productions for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

First-Degree Magic offers an intriguing supernatural murder mystery set against an imaginative, alternative Prohibition-era Chicago. The setting – infused with magic and post-WWI tension – adds an atmospheric and original backdrop to the Tarot Killer case. It’s clear the author put a tremendous amount of care and attention into weaving the mystery and slowly revealing the characters’ connections, which kept me reading to see how it would unfold.

That said, the execution didn’t fully land for me. While the concept was strong, the characters felt underdeveloped – Donovan came across as flat, Tino’s personality felt exaggerated and overplayed, and Bernie, meant to be a strong female lead, often felt ineffective. The writing lacked some of the nuance needed to bring the story and relationships to life, and the pacing dragged at times making it difficult to get through such a long book.

Still, there’s a lot of creativity here and a lot of effort clearly went into this book. Readers with a love for historical fantasy or supernatural mysteries may find more to connect with and enjoy here.

Overall 2.5 / 5 stars.

[Misty · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read this book via Netgalley, and I was not disappointed. From the first page I was all-in. If magical realism, urban fantasy, and historical fiction are your vibe - this book is worth a read. I enjoyed the story and the world building - but there were some questions left unanswered that seemed unnecessary. I also felt the book danced around the villain a bit too much - I liked the challenge of figuring out who was the bad guy and at the same time felt one too many storylines were in play. For me, this did not detract from fully enjoying this story and looking forward to seeing the author evolve more in the next book, but it did make the book drag out a bit longer than necessary.

I also loved the Order of Joans - and all the potential this idea has going forward. One thing I wish there had been more of was the relationships between the main character Bernie and the sisters in her Order. They felt too much like background characters and it seems like there could be some real depth to that history.

Just - so many unanswered questions. I look forward to seeing if they get resolved in the next story.

[Jessie Wallace · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. It sounded right up my alley with magic and mystery and alternate reality 1920s Chicago. A badass heroine from a not-so-secret society named after Joan of Arc teaming up with a cop who seems to be more than he appears and a half demon? Brilliant.

However... this book is way too long with very little character development. Clearly it's a setup for a duology or trilogy, but this book alone could have been a whole trilogy with it's length and the amount of storylines. Fantasy will always be more complex than other genres, but it wasn't that the storylines were complex or hard to keep up with, they just dragged along. There was more development of how magic worked in this world than of the world and characters.

It was a slog to get through, but I am glad I finished it as I did enjoy the overall mystery and the characters, but I didn't actually care about any of them as there was no real development of their characters.

Overall, I liked the dialogue and story, but could have used about 200 less pages.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I’m not a fan of books that take place in the past, I went ahead and requested this book. The blurb appealed to me and I was willing to take the risk. The setting didn’t feel too much like the past, especially with the addition of magic. I really came to like Bernice, even if I’m still a little confused about what happened in her past. I also really liked Tino and Jack for different reasons, even if their past makes them a little gray…or maybe not. You’ll have to read for yourself. This was a little wordy at times and probably could have been pared down quite a few pages, but I did enjoy this book with its interesting plot. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Maddie · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were elements of this book I really enjoyed, such as the alternative history with magic woven into real events and the magic system itself. The world-building was really interesting.

Where the book suffered for me was on the writing. I think it could've done some more fine tuning as parts of the story dragged or felt unnecessary and some of the point of view changes were a bit jumpy.

I liked having the multiple points of view but again I think some were unneeded or just ended up being repetitive - I might be biased though, Tino was my favourite character and I wish there'd been more from his perspective.

It's an enjoyable read I just didn't really connect with it.

Thank you to Netgally and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book.

[Kelsey Ciofani · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, thank you NetGalley for an eARC of this book for an honest review.

I first was intrigued by the cover of this book, and then reading the synopsis I knew it was going to be good. I’m a sucker for anything 1920’s and that’s when this book takes place, in an alternate Chicago.
Serial murders based on Tarot, a badass FMC, two MMC’s (one more likable than the other IMO, which is I’m sure a hot topic since he’s a Demi demon) and all the webs of magic, lies, deceit, and everything else in between that brings them together to stop the Tarot Killer.
Copper books usually aren’t my thing but I have to say I really enjoyed this one with the magic elements mixed in. Also, if you don’t do well with gore/brutality the descriptions of the murders may not be for you. I enjoyed them though. 😇

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantasy mystery crime thriller, somewhat gruesome in places, Police, gangsters and the Joan’s - the female magic police. Gruesome murders means demons, but may be the darkest demons are of human ilk. Bernice is a Joan charged with solving the crimes. She has a haunting past that drives her. Some of which we are shown, but there seems so much more to that story. There’s a lot going on action wise, though it sometimes feels a little repetitive. I also found myself thinking what can happen that’s going to take another quarter of the book. But the author fills that very well indeed. Thank you to Goblin Booth Productions and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

[Tiffannie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had me split down the middle feelings wise.
There were things I loved and things I could have done without..

Loved:
- The writing style
- The people & places within the story
- Paced really well
- Story development

Disliked:
- Character development
- Story was a little all over the place
- Toooo long

Overall I did enjoy the idea of mysteries set in a fantasy world and like I said I enjoyed the author's writing style. I hoping the next is a little shorter but, catches up a lot of the story and makes it feel whole and make sense.

[Grimm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! I particularly liked how the author handled having multiple POVs. I often struggle to read a story that switches point of view and find it a bit jarring. However, the author made smooth transitions that, didn't just not disrupt the flow, of the story but added to it. The same goes for any parts of the story where there was a time shift. I found the story to be very interesting and had a hard time putting down the book. I look forward to reading more from this author!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

thanks to netgalley for providing me with an e-arc of this book!

i really liked this. the setting and time period of 1920s chicago with a gritty urban fantasy feel was a treat. there is so much interesting about this world that i was so juicy to dig into. this was a bit of a slow start, but i found myself really invested with these characters at about the 40% mark. i get the impression that there is more magical lore in this world than the people in it are aware of, and i love that kind of mystery. i hope there are more books set in this world, bc i really want to kn0w more about it lol

[Fable · Rating 4 out of 5]

First-Degree Magic blends historical fantasy with a dark murder mystery, featuring a strong heroine, Bernie, and a compelling cast. The Tarot-themed killings and unique magic system kept me hooked, and the Prohibition-era setting added great atmosphere.

The story moves fast, with sharp dialogue and plenty of occult intrigue. The only downside was a slightly rushed ending, but I’m excited for the sequel.

Great for fans of magical mysteries with a noir twist!

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC

[Samantha Kurtz · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First-Degree Magic is an urban fantasy/crime mystery set in 1920s Chicago. A string of odd murders is causing tension around the city. Bernie (a butt-kicking, heroic Order of Joan) is determined to solve this mystery at any cost.

A mysterious detective
A cheeky bootlegging gangster
A magical, gritty, spooky, dark story.

A stunning debut novel. Thanks Goblin Booth Productions for generously sending us a copy of this book.

[Chelsey Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got the chance to purchase this book and meet the author directly, never did I think that it would be so special to me. I've truly been hooked from the start and being invited into this compelling world with such complex characters has been a ride.

If you want to read about a badass woman fighting her way through the evil of the world, (and have your heartstrings pulled by a sly demi demon along the way) I highly recommend!

[Karah Hullander · Rating 2 out of 5]

To me this book fell flat and was about 100 pages too long. I liked the characters and the overall plot. However I feel like the world building needed work and the magic system was incredibly vague. It felt like author knew all the rules but didn't want to inform the readers. The ending opens it up for a sequel where hopefully more can be explained