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The Dagger

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"The Dagger" is the first in a mystical, magical series featuring three generations of powerful, headstrong witches from the Madigan family. The family struggles to work together to keep a centuries-old promise. One leg in the real world, one in the magical, Bridget Madigan is a young detective working in Boston. Even though she has sworn never to use magic again, she caves to watch a flashback from the murder. She never dreamed her findings would implicate her own blood.

This unstoppable magical rollercoaster unearths long-kept family secrets. The Madigan family bond is pushed to the limit. Will they be strong enough to keep that century-old promise and protect the elemental power objects from a dark witch?

Kindle Edition

Published November 24, 2020

8 people are currently reading
57 people want to read

About the author

Marieke Lexmond

6 books15 followers
Marieke Lexmond reads tarot cards, loves food, photography, and travel. She has three sassy little dogs that she likes to take everywhere and have their own Instagram account @urbandogsquad. Her background in filmmaking enabled her to travel and live around the globe. Storytelling is in her blood, from saving her allowance from a very young age to buy books to her master's degree from the Dutch Film Academy. Fantasy and science fiction are her favorites. She prefers to write fun and mystical stories. Her attraction to nature and places with a magical history brought her to New Orleans and the West Coast of Ireland. As a pagan, she felt an instant connection to the land; it feeds her imagination and has become the inspiration for the Madigan Chronicles. The Cup (Madigan Chronicles #4) will be released at the end of 2022. You can follow the witches on IG and FB @underthewitcheshat and Marieke on her IG account @Mariekelex

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for _sassy_39.
2,574 reviews156 followers
December 23, 2020
The Dagger is a Paranormal urban fantasy written by the author Marieke Lexmond. It is the first book in the Madigan Chronicles. The story is about Madigan family that lives at the Madigan mansion in the Garden District in New Orleans. Sarah Madigan's ancestor was Mary Madigan. Madigan's are the guardians of the Wand of Wisdom.

The Wand is passed on from mother to eldest daughter since years. Now Sarah has twin daughters Lucy and Tara. Although Lucy is few mins older but Wand was passed to Tara. When Lucy was angry at this decision, Sarah banished her from family and their ancestoral property.

Tara Madigan is now in her mid-seventies. Now her children and grandchildren has to stop Lucy and take the dagger from her. Will they be successful in achieving their mission?

It is a nice story with a suitable title. I enjoyed overall storyline and the world building. Readers who are interested in reading witches stories should go ahead with this book. Cover photo could have been more attractive. I liked the twin concept in the story, the point from where all dispute started. This story is worth reading.
Profile Image for litandcoffee.
263 reviews6 followers
January 10, 2021
Full of magical mystery, intrigue, and suspense, Lexmond’s new urban fantasy series chronicles the story of a powerful family of witches struggling to keep a centuries-old promise.

The Madigan family has its share of ups and downs, but never like the one when one of the four mystical artifacts containing the power of elements goes missing and the young witch entrusted with its safekeeping gets killed brutally. The estranged members of the family must come together to find a way to get the artifact back or risk losing the world to chaos.

Lexmond takes the best of the intriguing world of urban fantasy and infuses it with present-day sensibility and family dynamics, placing the emphasis on family bonds, parent-child relationship, sibling ties, friendship, loyalty, greed, and power. Quick wit and realistic conflicts bring The Madigan family’s story to life with Lexmond tackling solid emotions without ever losing sight of lighthearted fun.

She retches up the tension with a horde of twists, and there’s plenty of suspense that stays in the back. Strong female characters and excellently crafted worldbuilding hold a broad appeal. Readers will fall head over heels for both the deeply realized characters and intriguing storyline.

This is a solid fun.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,738 reviews440 followers
April 20, 2022
In The Dagger: The Madigan Chronicles, written by Marieke Lexmond, Bridget tries her best to keep her witch side shut off and out of her life. However, she doesn’t know that she can ever truly shut her witch side off as she finds herself seeing a recent murder. She is thrust into a flashback and finds out who and why they murdered this witch. Bridget can’t believe her eyes. This discovery leads to her reconnecting with her family, which she has kept more than an arm’s length away. Unfortunately, Reconnecting brings up more secrets that her grandmother has hidden for decades. Bridget has many decisions to make, and she must reconnect with her witch side. But is she up for it?

The Dagger is an absolutely marvelous book. Many readers will find this book relatable in some ways. There is a lot of family drama in this exciting story; the Madigan family has many secrets hidden away. All the characters have unique backstories and well-formed personalities. Each unique individual that the author has created brings an essential element into the storyline, giving readers clues to the family’s secrets locked away for so long.

The grandmother, Tara, is a character full of depth; with secrets and desires to protect her family. She plays a vital role in Bridget’s life, and this is shown in interesting ways as the story advances. However, Tara is holding a secret from the family, which impacts how she interacts and how she is perceived by them and readers.

This intriguing book has an excellent pace for the start of a series. The worldbuilding and character development were integrated well into this first book’s plotline, giving readers enough information but not slowing down the action. The author used multiple characters’ points of view for this novel, so readers could see situations from different vantage points to paint a complete picture of things.

The Dagger is the first book in the paranormal series The Madigan Chronicles. Fantasy readers will be taken in by the unique characters and the dynamic plot. This is a fantastic start to the series, and readers will be anxiously awaiting the next installment.
145 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2021
Brimming with mysterious secret, interest, and tension, Lexmond's new metropolitan dream arrangement narratives the tale of an amazing group of witches battling to keep a centuries-old guarantee. The Lexmond's arrangement kicks in The Madigan Chronicles presents blazing heroes, a mysterious world-building, and a lot of amazing turns.

🌧️The Dagger (The Madigan Chronicles Book 1) by Marieke Lexmond is really a very interesting book which take you on a deep journey where you find lots of magical things which really entertain you and give a feel that all are happening in front of you. This is really an awesome book which creates a magical imagination in your mind when you read it.

🌧️This book start from A Madigan family has a lot of high points and low points, yet never like the one when one of the four magical antiquity containing the force of the components disappears and the youthful witch endowed with its care gets executed mercilessly. In any case, when a severe homicide highlight her own family's association and a mysterious Dagger, another antiquity permeated with the force of the components disappears, Bridget should get back and get equity for the person in question.

🌧️The speed and plot start at a snappy note, and Lexmond keeps the astonishments coming without losing the force. The irritated relational peculiarities, conflict of solid characters, and innumerable turns fuel the story. The expertly executed plot and thoroughly thought out word-building lift the plot further.

🌧️She heaves up the pressure with a crowd turns, and there's a lot of anticipation that stays in the back. Solid female characters and perfectly created word-building hold an expansive allure. Perusers will fall head over heels for both the profoundly acknowledged characters and a fascinating storyline.
119 reviews4 followers
May 26, 2021
This is a kind of book with a unique and interesting storyline that is interesting to read. I am sure once you start reading this book, you won't be able to put down.

"The Dagger" is the first in a mystical, magical series featuring three generations of powerful, headstrong witches from the Madigan family. At so many times, I felt like I was right there with Madigan Family and I have all the magical powers like they have. The story is all about witches and their magic. There is one Madigan family of powerful witches who seems to have one leg in the real world, one in the magical world. There is a lot to know about this family and as the story progresses, you will enjoy more and more. The Dagger have all the qualities of a good and interesting book.

I loved everything about this book. I really enjoyed this novel, I just wish it had been a little more longer because my heart wanted to read more and more. It was full of magic, excitement and adventure. After reading every page, I was curious to jump on to the next. Great characters and the storyline is different and engaging, It kept me interested till the end.

If you need an adventure ride into the world of magic, witches, fairies, and so much more, then this book is for you. It was really an interesting book. The beginning was really intriguing and it grasped my attention and so the ending was equally good. I liked the way this story took me into the world of four main characters. Worth reading!
94 reviews
March 26, 2021
Detailed Review Of "The Dagger (The Madigan Chronicles Book 1 " By Marieke Lexmond

Thanks to author for the review copy.

Genre - Fantasy

Ratings 4.5/5

The Dagger is an amazing book which takes you in the different magical world and story is very intriguing and kept you hooked throughout the end.

Characters and plot are developed at proper pace and also it's an very intriguing story.

Vocabulary of the book is very good and author has narrated this story very nicely and even if you're beginner reader you can easily understand it.

The language of the book is simple and easy to read. The writing style of the author is also pretty simple and error free.

Title of the book is very nice and it's a highlight for me.

The cover of the book is good but can be better. I really liked the way it looks but still didn't caught your attention on first look.

Moreover it's an amazing read and I would highly recommend this book to all the readers out there.
79 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2021
📖Who doesn't like stories with mystery, fantasy and magical creations. The Dagger is one such fantasy world's creation where the Madigan family of witches is struggling to keep there scerets and identities hidden from the real world.

📖The book is thrilling,exicting and a suspense full urban fantasy described by the author.

📖The story revolves around safe guarding the promise which is hidden since centuries. The story takes a turn when the mystical artifact goes missing and also the killing of the witch who was protecting it.

📖Bridget Madigan is the most centralised character of the story.She is working as detective in Boston and living upto her clans expectations of hiding there real identity.

📖In order to set all the things at place she has to return and prevail the justice of all the misconduct done. The book has a good pace and strong plot which will bind the readers to go on.
71 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2021
It is a novel full of mystery and Magical powers . The language is simple and clear for everyone to understand it.

Starting from the book cover ,I would say that it's very unique and creative . When I read the title I wasn't able to guess alot about what's inside it . But when I started reading it took all my attention.

It's a story of a Madigan family where the powerful witches stick together to keep a promise protected basically they were the keeper of the magical wand.

The main character of the novel is Bridget Madigan who is an investigator . So, what according to you will happen with the promise they made ??

The book is a whole some of alot of ups and downs , twists and turns, suspense, curiosity and mystery.

Honestly I loved reading this book. The more you read it the more you will be stuck on completing it.
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
1,988 reviews96 followers
March 14, 2021

🌻When I started this book, I wasn't sure what to expect but trust me I was so much in love while reading it. It's been long that I picked up a book which is this amazing, the storyline is so well written and detailed at times and the best part is it's filled with twists and turns. The story stores legacy, wonders and unforgettable experience which blend the fictional world with the magical world. Bridget is everything I wanna be, she is truly amazing, fierce and unique. I am in love with the magical storyline and the best thing is, it's a blend of everything an avid reader craves for in a good book! This is more than a fantasy - magical - mystery book which will surely blow your mind! I will highly recommend it. Go for it.
.
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Profile Image for Rowan Greene.
49 reviews3 followers
December 10, 2024
Anna Lexmond’s The Dagger: The Madigan Chronicles #1 is a spellbinding tale of magic, family secrets, and the powerful legacy of the Madigan witches. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of New Orleans, the story masterfully weaves supernatural intrigue with complex family dynamics, pulling readers into a world where choices carry life-altering consequences. With richly drawn characters and a plot that keeps you on edge, this is a must-read for fans of enchanting, emotional fantasy. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment of this captivating series!
Profile Image for Olivia Barry.
Author 2 books6 followers
December 4, 2020
This was such a wonderful, entertaining read. I wanted to be part of the Madigan's family and hang out with them and experience their world first hand.
If you need a bit of magic in your life ––witches, tarot cards, fairies, and so much more--then this book is for you.
5*****! I loved it.❤️
Profile Image for The Reviewera.
336 reviews19 followers
January 22, 2021
Amazingly woven like an interesting spell. I didn't think this book was going to be this good. It was , as you might expect , engaging , a total different piece of art from every aspect.
It sets a very high bar for whatever he does that comes next.
Must Read
Profile Image for Nikita.
320 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2021
Five Stars

One of the best books I have read this month!
Highly recommend it! I only leave positive feedback and reviews when I love the book.
Feel free to ask anything regarding this book.
A must read for sure.
2 reviews
November 6, 2025
The Dagger by Marieke Lexmond is a dazzling entry into the world of urban fantasy. It is a seamless blend of crime, family drama, and elemental magic. Lexmond’s writing sparkles with suspense and emotion, inviting readers into the mysterious legacy of the Madigan witches.
4 reviews
November 6, 2025
In The Dagger, Marieke Lexmond delivers a spellbinding tale that bridges generations of witches bound by love, betrayal, and destiny. The story’s blend of realism and the supernatural feels effortless, proving that Lexmond is a master of modern magical storytelling.
6 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2025
An evocative and fast-paced fantasy with real emotional depth, The Dagger captures the struggle between duty and destiny. Lexmond’s vivid storytelling makes the world of the Madigans feel utterly alive.
2 reviews
November 6, 2025
ZRichly atmospheric and emotionally charged, The Dagger takes readers deep into the heart of a family where secrets are as powerful as spells. Marieke Lexmond combines mystery, heart, and magic with remarkable skill.
4 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2025
Blending supernatural intrigue with heartfelt emotion, The Dagger reminds readers that even the most powerful magic cannot protect you from the truth. Marieke Lexmond’s writing is both cinematic and intimate.
Profile Image for Taylor Hartley.
8 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2025
The Dagger is an unmissable start to an extraordinary saga. Lexmond’s portrayal of the Madigan family, flawed, powerful, and fiercely loyal, makes this story both epic and deeply human.
113 reviews7 followers
June 26, 2023
"The Dagger" is a captivating introduction to a mystical and enchanting series that delves into the lives of the Madigan family, three generations of powerful and headstrong witches. Written by a talented author, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with magic, secrets, and a battle between light and dark. As the secrets of the Madigan family are unearthed, their bond is tested, and they must confront a dark witch who seeks to possess the elemental power objects.

At the heart of the story is Bridget Madigan, a young detective in Boston who finds herself torn between the real world and the magical realm. Despite her vow to never use magic again, Bridget is drawn back into the world of spells and sorcery when a murder investigation leads her to startling discoveries that implicate her own family. The author skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, fantasy, and family dynamics to create a spellbinding narrative. The plot is intricately woven, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats until the final page.

The characters, particularly Bridget, are well-developed and relatable, each carrying their own burdens and desires. The magical elements are intricately described, transporting readers into a world where anything is possible. What sets "The Dagger" apart is its exploration of family ties and the complexities of trust and loyalty. The Madigan family's struggles and sacrifices to uphold a century-old promise add depth and emotional resonance to the story. As readers delve deeper into the book, they will find themselves invested in the characters' journeys, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the next twist and turn.

The pacing is brisk, with a good balance of action, suspense, and character development. The author's prose is engaging and evocative, painting vivid scenes and immersing readers in both the real and magical worlds. "The Dagger" is a fantastic start to a series that promises more magical adventures and intriguing revelations. It will appeal to fans of fantasy, mystery, and family sagas, as it seamlessly blends these genres into a unique and captivating tale. Whether you're a longtime lover of witchcraft or a newcomer to the genre, this book will leave you craving more of the Madigan family's mystical journey.

Merged review:

"The Dagger" is a captivating introduction to a mystical and enchanting series that delves into the lives of the Madigan family, three generations of powerful and headstrong witches. Written by a talented author, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with magic, secrets, and a battle between light and dark. As the secrets of the Madigan family are unearthed, their bond is tested, and they must confront a dark witch who seeks to possess the elemental power objects.

At the heart of the story is Bridget Madigan, a young detective in Boston who finds herself torn between the real world and the magical realm. Despite her vow to never use magic again, Bridget is drawn back into the world of spells and sorcery when a murder investigation leads her to startling discoveries that implicate her own family. The author skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, fantasy, and family dynamics to create a spellbinding narrative. The plot is intricately woven, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats until the final page.

The characters, particularly Bridget, are well-developed and relatable, each carrying their own burdens and desires. The magical elements are intricately described, transporting readers into a world where anything is possible. What sets "The Dagger" apart is its exploration of family ties and the complexities of trust and loyalty. The Madigan family's struggles and sacrifices to uphold a century-old promise add depth and emotional resonance to the story. As readers delve deeper into the book, they will find themselves invested in the characters' journeys, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the next twist and turn.

The pacing is brisk, with a good balance of action, suspense, and character development. The author's prose is engaging and evocative, painting vivid scenes and immersing readers in both the real and magical worlds. "The Dagger" is a fantastic start to a series that promises more magical adventures and intriguing revelations. It will appeal to fans of fantasy, mystery, and family sagas, as it seamlessly blends these genres into a unique and captivating tale. Whether you're a longtime lover of witchcraft or a newcomer to the genre, this book will leave you craving more of the Madigan family's mystical journey.
Profile Image for Tanmay Mehta.
294 reviews16 followers
February 10, 2021
🌀The book I recently completed is a perfect book which a reader would enjoy reading and will experience the scenes like they are really happening the book is called " The Dagger”

🎩🌀Starting with the title of the book " The Dagger ". When it comes to the title, I feel it must be the one which explains the content of the book in one word/line which is easily understandable. Whereas this one qualifies an additional part with is the Curiosity to the viewer. I personally was curious to read the book when I saw the title. The cover on the other hand completes the title and give it a picture. Overall, the outer appearance of the book is appealing and for the romance readers I feel this is eye catchy.

🎩🌀The Dagger by Marieke Lexmond is a decent read of 264 pages which I finished reading in just one sitting and trust me I was hooked

🎩🌀So coming to the plot of the story , The story is about the Madigan family staying at the Madigan Mansion in New Orleans' Garden District. Mary Madigan is Sarah Madigan's ancestor. The Holders of the Wand of Wisdom are Madigan's. What an interesting plot right ? Trust me its just the trailer when you will start reading it you will get into the story to know whats next

🎩🌀Bridget Madigan is the most concentrated character in the storey. She works in Boston as an investigator and lives up to the demands of her families of shielding true identity.

🎩🌀Read the book, Gift it to close ones and enjoy. Also, I would like to thank the author for giving me such an experience through the book. I do not want to be a spoiler so without breaking any suspense, I would request you all to read this book. I highly recommend it to all the readers.

Merged review:

🌀The book I recently completed is a perfect book which a reader would enjoy reading and will experience the scenes like they are really happening the book is called " The Dagger”

🎩🌀Starting with the title of the book " The Dagger ". When it comes to the title, I feel it must be the one which explains the content of the book in one word/line which is easily understandable. Whereas this one qualifies an additional part with is the Curiosity to the viewer. I personally was curious to read the book when I saw the title. The cover on the other hand completes the title and give it a picture. Overall, the outer appearance of the book is appealing and for the romance readers I feel this is eye catchy.

🎩🌀The Dagger by Marieke Lexmond is a decent read of 264 pages which I finished reading in just one sitting and trust me I was hooked

🎩🌀So coming to the plot of the story , The story is about the Madigan family staying at the Madigan Mansion in New Orleans' Garden District. Mary Madigan is Sarah Madigan's ancestor. The Holders of the Wand of Wisdom are Madigan's. What an interesting plot right ? Trust me its just the trailer when you will start reading it you will get into the story to know whats next

🎩🌀Bridget Madigan is the most concentrated character in the storey. She works in Boston as an investigator and lives up to the demands of her families of shielding true identity.

🎩🌀Read the book, Gift it to close ones and enjoy. Also, I would like to thank the author for giving me such an experience through the book. I do not want to be a spoiler so without breaking any suspense, I would request you all to read this book. I highly recommend it to all the readers.
Profile Image for Jithendra Jithu.
2,324 reviews119 followers
December 7, 2022
The Dagger (1) (The Madigan Chronicles)

By

Marieke Lexmond

Rating:5/5

Description:

"The Dagger" is the first in a mystical, magical series featuring three generations of powerful, headstrong witches from the Madigan family. The family struggles to work together to keep a centuries-old promise. One leg in the real world, one in the magical, Bridget Madigan is a young detective working in Boston. Even though she has sworn never to use magic again, she caves to watch a flashback from the murder. She never dreamed her findings would implicate her own blood.

This unstoppable magical rollercoaster unearths long-kept family secrets. The Madigan family bond is pushed to the limit. Will they be strong enough to keep that century-old promise and protect the elemental power objects from a dark witch?

Review:

👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.

👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .The Dagger by Marieke Lexmond is a decent read of 264 pagesThe story is about the Madigan family staying at the Madigan Mansion in New Orleans' Garden District. Mary Madigan is Sarah Madigan's ancestor. The Holders of the Wand of Wisdom are Madigan's. The Madigan family, a long-line of powerful witches, is the keeper of a magical wand, one of the four artifacts imbued with the power of the elements. It’s been years since Bridget Madigan, a young detective working in Boston and granddaughter of the Madigans, has a fallout with her mother. But when a brutal murder points toward her own kin’s involvement and a magical Dagger, another artifact imbued with the power of elements goes missing, Bridget must return home and get justice for the victim.

For book link:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/166787...

Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book

👉I just loved reading the book ...

Happy reading!
Profile Image for BooksCoffee.
1,068 reviews
January 8, 2021
Lexmond’s series kicker in The Madigan Chronicles serves up fiery protagonists, a mystical world-building, and plenty of surprising twists.

The Madigan family, a long-line of powerful witches, is the keeper of a magical wand, one of the four artifacts imbued with the power of the elements. It’s been years since Bridget Madigan, a young detective working in Boston and granddaughter of the Madigans, has a fallout with her mother. But when a brutal murder points toward her own kin’s involvement and a magical Dagger, another artifact imbued with the power of elements goes missing, Bridget must return home and get justice for the victim.

The pace and plot begin at a quick note, and Lexmond keeps the surprises coming without losing the momentum. The estranged family dynamics, clash of strong personalities, and countless twists fuel the narrative. The expertly executed plot and well-conceived worldbuilding elevate the plot further.

Headstrong female characters and a tangled mystery make this a lively, deeply engrossing urban fantasy.
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