Before the Court of Mystery, Duchess Jacqueline Arienta Xavier reigned as the Ducal Detective. Murder is a royal affair in this enchanting prequel series by Sarah E. Burr. In this captivating novella introducing the Realm of Virtues, Jacqueline Arienta Xavier is the newly crowned Duchess of Saphire after her parents' carriage is found overturned on their way to a knights' tournament. While at first the tragedy is deemed an accident, the Duchess discovers a sinister plot in the heart of her own duchy. She must use her fearless curiosity, with help from unsuspecting friends, to unmask the culprit before the traitor comes for her head. Discover for yourself how the Duchess rose to power in the Ducal Detective Mysteries: The Ducal Detective A Feast Most Foul A Voyage of Vengeance A Summit in Shadow Throne of Threats The Duchess's story continues in the Court of Mystery novels: Paradise Plagued Burdened Bloodline