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Daughter of Winter #2
Winter's Mantle
Brydie MacKay has accepted that she is the last Daughter of Winter. Her old life soon becomes a distant memory as she is initiated into a world of druidic magic. However, the further Brydie delves into her legacy, the more she realizes that she is up against impossible odds. Training is brutal beyond imagining, and the full power of her birthright eludes her. To make matters worse, everyone has an agenda—even the man required by prophecy to protect her. It soon becomes clear that Brydie must prove not only to herself but to all the other descendants that she is worthy of her legacy. However, time is not on her side. Samhain is approaching, and Brydie can never forget that the Dark One is watching, readying himself for his inevitable attack. Winter's Mantle is the second book in a dark fantasy romance series based on the myths and legends of the Celtic winter goddess, Cailleach Bheur. Featuring dark magic, druids, fae, selkies, mythical creatures, and a morally grey hero with an enemies-to-lovers romance, it is perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and the Fever series.
292 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2020
435 people are currently reading
2346 people want to read
About the author
Corina Douglas
21 books792 followersCorina Douglas lives in New Zealand with her husband and four kids. If she's not running her indie editing business, Burning Legacies Publishing, she can be found exploring the forest, doing that stretchy yoga thing, or with her nose in a good book.
She writes dark fantasy romance stories based on Celtic mythology, with a special focus on Scottish, Irish, and Welsh folklore. Her stories are full of emotional punch, fast-paced action, and morally grey heroes.
You can find her at all the usual places below:
Website: www.corinadouglas.com
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@corina.dougla...
Instagram: https://instagram.com/CDouglas_author
Facebook: https://facebook.com/corina.douglas.a...
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/CDouglas_author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
She writes dark fantasy romance stories based on Celtic mythology, with a special focus on Scottish, Irish, and Welsh folklore. Her stories are full of emotional punch, fast-paced action, and morally grey heroes.
You can find her at all the usual places below:
Website: www.corinadouglas.com
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@corina.dougla...
Instagram: https://instagram.com/CDouglas_author
Facebook: https://facebook.com/corina.douglas.a...
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/CDouglas_author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 25, 2022
I'm so frustrated, I liked the first installment, the lore and Celtic mythology interested me right from the start. I felt like I stumbled onto an amazing series. I had a few issues here and there but I wanted to continue on and get to the main storyline in volume two. Unfortunately all I got was dashed hopes. I'm so sick of Gage's fucking self righteous bullshit. He treats Brydie like crap, he can blame it on the prophecy and its will to protect the Daughter of winter but it is just a sad façade for him to be an ass and call it romantic tension. I mean what the hell he’s the one that knows best, he’s the guardian, everything he does is right and everything Brydie does is wrong, I mean come on, Brydie is supposed to be the damn descendent of the Goddess, shouldn’t they defer to her for some things. Even if she just learned about her heritage, some of it should have been ingrained for God sake its biological (also why doesn’t she remember her dreams its super frustrating that she is given this knowledge, just to have it disappear, negating any progress learn about her past). Its not just Gage either everyone is hostile towards her but Ian. I don’t understand why, they need her and they need to start acting like it or I’m done with this book series. Not to mention that the institute, another group that supposed to help her and guide her, is evil and after their own goals, doesn’t anyone care about Brydie as a person or at least as a savior. I really struggled through the second installment, I just wanted more, from the story and from Brydie. I also need Gage to get his act together because right now I hate him. Brydie needs to step up but with everyone making her feel like crap it's no wonder she can’t grow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
winters mantle
Damn Corina, this book is amaze. And I’m angry that these old gods couldn’t just have nice lives like why do we have to come here and fix it for them haha.
Not going to lie, I was very annoyed at Gage this whole book, anti hero for sure, and Brydie is getting more and more interesting, as well as the story between their ancestors is breaking my heart, stop it! On to book 3!!!
Damn Corina, this book is amaze. And I’m angry that these old gods couldn’t just have nice lives like why do we have to come here and fix it for them haha.
Not going to lie, I was very annoyed at Gage this whole book, anti hero for sure, and Brydie is getting more and more interesting, as well as the story between their ancestors is breaking my heart, stop it! On to book 3!!!
January 19, 2022
very good reading
As I was continuing through this storyline. I was getting more caught up in the characters. This is very good reading to snuggle up to on cold nights.
As I was continuing through this storyline. I was getting more caught up in the characters. This is very good reading to snuggle up to on cold nights.
July 2, 2020
I'm so happy that this sequel was released so quickly, because I absolutely loved Daughter of Winter (Book One).
Winter's Mantle did not disappoint! In fact, I think I liked it even more than the first book, which I don't say very often! The author really brought the characters to life in this page-turner. I don't want to spoil anything, but expect to meet a variety of new characters in book two, and to learn much more about the prophecy that both Brydie and Gage belong to. It's fascinating the way the author interweaves these character's lives with Celtic Mythology to create a fantastic story that keeps you wanting to know more...and more...and more. :)
I cannot wait to read book three. I recommend checking this series out if you haven't already started it!
Winter's Mantle did not disappoint! In fact, I think I liked it even more than the first book, which I don't say very often! The author really brought the characters to life in this page-turner. I don't want to spoil anything, but expect to meet a variety of new characters in book two, and to learn much more about the prophecy that both Brydie and Gage belong to. It's fascinating the way the author interweaves these character's lives with Celtic Mythology to create a fantastic story that keeps you wanting to know more...and more...and more. :)
I cannot wait to read book three. I recommend checking this series out if you haven't already started it!
December 27, 2023
great read
Found this second in the series unfolded with a few unexpected twists and turns. Brydie and Gage’s tenuous relationship is tested. The relationship developing between Tritus and Cailleach develops and strengths giving the history of the pendant and the impending battle with Talorgan. Highly recommend this series if you’re interested in Scottish Celtic Lore and Druids. 5 stars.
Found this second in the series unfolded with a few unexpected twists and turns. Brydie and Gage’s tenuous relationship is tested. The relationship developing between Tritus and Cailleach develops and strengths giving the history of the pendant and the impending battle with Talorgan. Highly recommend this series if you’re interested in Scottish Celtic Lore and Druids. 5 stars.
April 22, 2024
I am an avid reader and a big fan of fantasy, but I can say that I have never before read the first book in a series, then immediately purchase the entries series from Amazon as soon as I finished the book and then check if my local bookstore had copies because waiting for the one day delivery was too long. Corina Douglas weaves in Celtic lore into her story and character development seamlessly.
June 26, 2024
Better writing than the first book in my opinion. Story/plot is moving along well, though this book didn’t feel entirely like a book more like a novella and could have had more added to it. Moving on to the next!
August 15, 2024
Improving
I still find the characters frustrating but the story is compelling so I will persevere. I really hope Brydie is able to do the thing.
I still find the characters frustrating but the story is compelling so I will persevere. I really hope Brydie is able to do the thing.
July 18, 2025
3.0
I really wanted to love this one, especially after enjoying Daughter of Winter, but sadly Winter’s Mantle just didn’t land for me. I struggled to get into it from the start, and while I did listen to the entire audiobook, I’ve decided to end my journey with the series here. (also would have to wait for the audiobook and I am not sure I will remember what was happening)
What made it difficult for me was the heavy use of flashbacks. They felt long and drawn out, and I found myself losing interest during those sections. I understand their importance to the mythology and backstory, but for me, they disrupted the flow and pulled me out of the present-day narrative.
If the whole book had stayed in the present, I honestly think I would’ve enjoyed it more. I was hoping for more development with the characters I connected with in book one, especially Brydie, Gage, and Chloe, but the pacing and structure made it hard to stay engaged.
I still appreciate Corina Douglas’s storytelling and the unique New Zealand flavor she brings to her work, but this installment just wasn’t for me.
I really wanted to love this one, especially after enjoying Daughter of Winter, but sadly Winter’s Mantle just didn’t land for me. I struggled to get into it from the start, and while I did listen to the entire audiobook, I’ve decided to end my journey with the series here. (also would have to wait for the audiobook and I am not sure I will remember what was happening)
What made it difficult for me was the heavy use of flashbacks. They felt long and drawn out, and I found myself losing interest during those sections. I understand their importance to the mythology and backstory, but for me, they disrupted the flow and pulled me out of the present-day narrative.
If the whole book had stayed in the present, I honestly think I would’ve enjoyed it more. I was hoping for more development with the characters I connected with in book one, especially Brydie, Gage, and Chloe, but the pacing and structure made it hard to stay engaged.
I still appreciate Corina Douglas’s storytelling and the unique New Zealand flavor she brings to her work, but this installment just wasn’t for me.
April 15, 2020
Wow! Another gread read. I loved seeing the story continue, but also so delving into the past, it was really great to get the background on some of the characters. Im still just as captivated and am very much looking forward to book no3.............
July 6, 2020
There are two different story lines in the past and the present, but they’re tied to each other. Brydie grows with her training and as she starts to accept who she is—nice character arcs. Not sure about Gage, but he’s complex, I’ll give him that. Ms. Douglas is a wonderful wordsmith and storyteller! Can’t wait to move on to the next one!
November 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this book because I got more of a back story from the characters’ ancestors. It was a great read.
May 12, 2024
These books seem like they’re all going to be a slow burn. The story is picking up but still slow to give information. Maybe I’m just being impatient but I really like the characters and the story line. The switch between present day and the past and how they are intertwined is very interesting.
October 29, 2021
Hooked from the moment I started reading, great character building and development, couldn't wait to start the next one. Don't wanna out any spoilers out there, so give it a go, Celtic mythology, druids, it was a great start to the adventure
June 29, 2020
The prophecy was something they could not escape. The birthright is a heavy burden. We see a lot of puzzle pieces fall into place as we relive the beauty and tragedy of the past and sit in angst to see how the future unfolds.
October 29, 2020
I can't say enough about this series. Corina Douglas has me hooked until the end. I'm enjoying the mix of ancient and modern day, magic and everyday life - actually not so much of the everyday if I'm honest. I've always enjoyed fantasy where the hero starts as an ordinary person and must take up the mantle of magic to save the world. This one is no exception. Enjoy!
May 10, 2020
This is another seamlessly crafted narrative from Corina Douglas that continues on from “Daughter of Winter”. Once I started reading, I felt like I was transported from Brydie’s modern-day world into Callieach and Tritus’ world of ancient Scotland. The interwoven storylines provided depth and perspective to the book while drawing the reader into Callieach and Tritus’ deepening relationship and Brydie’s ancestry. Just a little heads-up though: the cliff-hanger at the end is definitely going to make you want to get your hands on the next book ASAP!
April 21, 2023
I found this book on the boring side. All the modern day POV was focused around training and how it was going no where.
Those who are charged with protecting Brydie treated her like dirt. McKenzie was especially cruel and it was frustrating to see Brydie take it. I wanted her to remind McKenzie she is the Daughter of Winter and it’s her estate she’s living in!
Gage who is meant to protect her just made her question herself over and over. It was explained the prophecy was controlling him but he still came across as a total arse.
Ian was the only one who treats her with any respect and kindness. Then Gage has the nerve to be pissed about the connection between Ian & Brydie.
The saving grace of this book was the chapters focused on the past. We got to see Cailleach & Tritus relationship blossom and the down fall of Talorgan. It was this part of the storyline that kept me going …
Is it enough to go into book 3? No. Will I come back to this series? I don’t know, let’s see if it plays in my mind enough to want to find out.
But for now, even that mild cliffhanger it ended on isn’t enough to spark my interest.
Those who are charged with protecting Brydie treated her like dirt. McKenzie was especially cruel and it was frustrating to see Brydie take it. I wanted her to remind McKenzie she is the Daughter of Winter and it’s her estate she’s living in!
Gage who is meant to protect her just made her question herself over and over. It was explained the prophecy was controlling him but he still came across as a total arse.
Ian was the only one who treats her with any respect and kindness. Then Gage has the nerve to be pissed about the connection between Ian & Brydie.
The saving grace of this book was the chapters focused on the past. We got to see Cailleach & Tritus relationship blossom and the down fall of Talorgan. It was this part of the storyline that kept me going …
Is it enough to go into book 3? No. Will I come back to this series? I don’t know, let’s see if it plays in my mind enough to want to find out.
But for now, even that mild cliffhanger it ended on isn’t enough to spark my interest.
February 27, 2025
I had to DNF it. Which is a shame bc I was really in to the first book.
BTW, if anyone has a summary of this series, I really need closure 😂
Here's the thing. I like dark romance. I don't even object to bully romance, but this just doesn't make sense.
Mckenzie and Gage are born to care for the chosen one and they only make it more difficult for her. Apparently Gage is forced by the prophecy, which still doesn't make sense. But Mckenzie is just a bitch.
How do neither of them realise that being hostile towards here and not telling her important things is NOT helping?
Neither is pushing someone so hard during training they vomit. Magic healing or not, that's not how you build a healthy and strong body. Better yet, not explaining shit during training and just throwing punches is also not helping. But sure, the prophecy made him do it.
And now they finally have the chosen one, the last daughter of winter, and absolutely no one is working on bringing all five of her guardians together? I get it's not the highest priority, but come on.
Honestly, if they want to get rid of Talorgan, just throw him in one of these huge plot holes.
BTW, if anyone has a summary of this series, I really need closure 😂
Here's the thing. I like dark romance. I don't even object to bully romance, but this just doesn't make sense.
Mckenzie and Gage are born to care for the chosen one and they only make it more difficult for her. Apparently Gage is forced by the prophecy, which still doesn't make sense. But Mckenzie is just a bitch.
How do neither of them realise that being hostile towards here and not telling her important things is NOT helping?
Neither is pushing someone so hard during training they vomit. Magic healing or not, that's not how you build a healthy and strong body. Better yet, not explaining shit during training and just throwing punches is also not helping. But sure, the prophecy made him do it.
And now they finally have the chosen one, the last daughter of winter, and absolutely no one is working on bringing all five of her guardians together? I get it's not the highest priority, but come on.
Honestly, if they want to get rid of Talorgan, just throw him in one of these huge plot holes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2025
I think the only reason I keep reading is the past lore, not so much Byrdie's story. It was still a drag to get through, and I question whether or not I should continue the series. I think I'll read book 3 and decide.
Things I highlighted while reading:
“And you are mine.” A gasp escaped her, and he pulled back, catching the startled expression on her face—an acknowledgment that her power over him wasn’t all-consuming. For this connection they had, it went both ways.
“You mistake me for a hero. I’m not the good guy, Brydie, and you’ll do well to remember that.”
"And even though prophecy has thrown us together and I’ve accepted our fate, that does not mean I will willingly surrender my body. You need to prove to me you are worthy of it! And I do not mean through stolen kisses and rough groping, but with deeds and words and actions. If you can share this role with me as an equal, then we shall see whether you are worthy of such a gift.”
Things I highlighted while reading:
“And you are mine.” A gasp escaped her, and he pulled back, catching the startled expression on her face—an acknowledgment that her power over him wasn’t all-consuming. For this connection they had, it went both ways.
“You mistake me for a hero. I’m not the good guy, Brydie, and you’ll do well to remember that.”
"And even though prophecy has thrown us together and I’ve accepted our fate, that does not mean I will willingly surrender my body. You need to prove to me you are worthy of it! And I do not mean through stolen kisses and rough groping, but with deeds and words and actions. If you can share this role with me as an equal, then we shall see whether you are worthy of such a gift.”
August 15, 2022
Wow! What an adventure. I adore this series! Douglas has woven together a masterpiece of folk lore, modern living and magical elements. The dual timeline is brilliantly executed and really makes you want to root for all the main characters, both past and present. I also love how she gives the nemesis "page time" which allows us to see how evil took over his heart. I also love the idea that God's and Goddesses can't just do as they please, that laws affect them too. It's led to some pleasantly unexpected twists. I can't wait for the next book to come out!
April 20, 2020
Living into your legacy is not an easy task
Stepping right back into this adventure had me wish I didn't have to leave! With every new discovery had by Brydie, I found myself clinging to every word, wondering what would happen next! Between the love triangles, hidden parts of history, and the frustrations had by trying to unlock dormant powers, this book had be on an emotional roller coaster pleading for this to keep going.
I love this series, and cannot wait to see where all these bloodlines run to, and where they will stand to fight.
Stepping right back into this adventure had me wish I didn't have to leave! With every new discovery had by Brydie, I found myself clinging to every word, wondering what would happen next! Between the love triangles, hidden parts of history, and the frustrations had by trying to unlock dormant powers, this book had be on an emotional roller coaster pleading for this to keep going.
I love this series, and cannot wait to see where all these bloodlines run to, and where they will stand to fight.
December 14, 2023
I am 100% hooked on this story now. Though I gave the first book an average rating, Corina really hits the story’s stride in this, book 2.
What I love about this:
✔️ the relationship dynamics between all the characters
✔️ The care in which she takes in translating Pagan lore into modern day relevance.
✔️ the time hoping is clear and ties back current events to generational past
Highly recommend beginning your journey with Corina Douglas if you’re into dark fantasy, Pagan lore, historical fiction, Celtic interests and generally supporting an up and coming author.
What I love about this:
✔️ the relationship dynamics between all the characters
✔️ The care in which she takes in translating Pagan lore into modern day relevance.
✔️ the time hoping is clear and ties back current events to generational past
Highly recommend beginning your journey with Corina Douglas if you’re into dark fantasy, Pagan lore, historical fiction, Celtic interests and generally supporting an up and coming author.
March 17, 2025
I already grabbed the next book and I am about to start it.
THE ESATE IS GONE?! I cant believe there is yet ANOTHER person/ deity trying to kill them.
Im glad Mackenzie and Aiden are okay, even if i dont like her- also glad the dog survived.
When the fuck are they going to find Chloe? I need her back and to be okay so she can help Brydie!
Bry & Ian? Honestly im down, i know its not endgame- ESPECIALLY with Gages reaction. Man was pissed, that break is going to be blissful
THE ESATE IS GONE?! I cant believe there is yet ANOTHER person/ deity trying to kill them.
Im glad Mackenzie and Aiden are okay, even if i dont like her- also glad the dog survived.
When the fuck are they going to find Chloe? I need her back and to be okay so she can help Brydie!
Bry & Ian? Honestly im down, i know its not endgame- ESPECIALLY with Gages reaction. Man was pissed, that break is going to be blissful
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2020
A kickin’ read
The writing is fresh and the setting and characters are so cool! The mythology builds in book 2 so if you like Celtic mythology, that’s definitely a bonus. If you liked the first one, you’ll love this one as well. If you haven’t read the first one, check it out and then continue the journey in book 2!
The writing is fresh and the setting and characters are so cool! The mythology builds in book 2 so if you like Celtic mythology, that’s definitely a bonus. If you liked the first one, you’ll love this one as well. If you haven’t read the first one, check it out and then continue the journey in book 2!
March 15, 2020
Great sequel
Another page-Turner. Read it in one sitting and all I can say is, I cant wait for Book III!
Also: I know what happens because Book I told us, but I seriously hope there is an epic showdown between Tritus and Talorgan in the next installment.
Diaclaimer for those who like content advisories: There is some violence, sexual content and language.
Another page-Turner. Read it in one sitting and all I can say is, I cant wait for Book III!
Also: I know what happens because Book I told us, but I seriously hope there is an epic showdown between Tritus and Talorgan in the next installment.
Diaclaimer for those who like content advisories: There is some violence, sexual content and language.
March 15, 2020
Winter's Mantle is skillfully written, drawing you into the story so you're right there as all the events unravel, keeping you on the edge of your seat, making it impossible to put the book down. Book 2 really unravel all the characters, their personalities, roles and relationships. There are character you'll love, and characters you'll love to hate! This book is definitely a must read!
March 16, 2020
Book 2 of the series was so gripping I read it in one session and the last page left me wishing I could read more - right now. As I learned more about the characters with both flaws and strengths I loved how the double timeline (ancient Scotland and today) weave together and paint a more complete picture. But still so much to find out. I can’t wait for the next one.
March 17, 2020
Wow...just finished Winter's Mantle - Book 2 in the Daughter of Winter series. This is another superb piece of writing by author Corina Douglas, which has kept me fully engaged following the descendants from 3rd Century BC, Ancient Scotland and Brydie from the modern world who is caught up in this life threatening adventure of Druidic magic and mythology.
It's a gripping read!
It's a gripping read!
April 13, 2024
The beginning was a tad slow/confusing. But the ending tied it all together. And ohh boy am I ready to see what adventures Brydie, Ian, & Gage have.
Also was nice on spice level not to to deep. Which I prefer. Can’t wait to read on in book 3. This kinda series has me intrigued & wanting more after each chapter.
Also was nice on spice level not to to deep. Which I prefer. Can’t wait to read on in book 3. This kinda series has me intrigued & wanting more after each chapter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews