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Wrath of the Stormking #2

Daughter of the Dragon

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The Stormking has brokered an uneasy peace with the west, but the threat of an elven invasion looms in the east. Hoping to prevent a bloody war, Will departs in search of the mythical hidden gate to the elven homeland, and believes the country is safe in his absence.

He is wrong.

Adept at manipulation, the elves seek to conquer from within, and their spies have already infiltrated the kingdom. As Selene prepares to defend her throne, she discovers that the elven plot runs deeper than the blackest shadows. Duty demands she put her nation first, but a loathsome ally urges a darker choice. Beset by foes and without the Stormking, she has never been so alone… or vulnerable.

She cannot win without power. To gain it, she must embrace an ancient evil, or make the ultimate sacrifice. But she is Selene, the lich queen of Terabinia, and defiance is in her blood. When the hour comes, she will rise to face her legacy—and curse—as the Daughter of the Dragon.

512 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 30, 2024

190 people are currently reading
130 people want to read

About the author

Michael G. Manning

30 books2,087 followers
Michael Manning was born in Cleveland, Texas and spent his formative years there, reading fantasy and science fiction, concocting home grown experiments in his backyard, and generally avoiding schoolwork.

Eventually he went to college, starting at Sam Houston State University, where his love of beer blossomed and his obsession with playing role-playing games led him to what he calls 'his best year ever' and what most of his family calls 'the lost year'.

Several years and a few crappy jobs later, he decided to pursue college again and was somehow accepted into the University of Houston Honors program (we won't get into the particulars of that miracle). This led to a degree in pharmacy and it followed from there that he wound up with a license to practice said profession.

Unfortunately, Michael was not a very good pharmacist. Being relatively lawless and free spirited were not particularly good traits to possess in a career focused on perfection, patient safety, and the letter-of-the-law. Nevertheless, he persisted and after a stint as a hospital pharmacy manager wound up as a pharmacist working in correctional managed care for the State of Texas.

He gave drugs to prisoners.

After a year or two at UTMB he became bored and taught himself entirely too much about networking, programming, and database design and administration. At first his supervisors warned him (repeatedly) to do his assigned tasks and stop designing programs to help his coworkers do theirs, but eventually they gave up and just let him do whatever he liked since it seemed to be generally working out well for them.

Ten or eleven years later and he got bored with that too. So he wrote a book. We won't talk about where he was when he wrote 'The Blacksmith's Son', but let's just assume he was probably supposed to be doing something else at the time.

Some people liked the book and told other people. Now they won't leave him alone.

After another year or two, he decided to just give up and stop pretending to be a pharmacist/programmer, much to the chagrin of his mother (who had only ever wanted him to grow up to be a doctor and had finally become content with the fact that he had settled on pharmacy instead).

Michael's wife supported his decision, even as she stubbornly refused to believe he would make any money at it. It turned out later that she was just telling him this because she knew that nothing made Michael more contrary than his never ending desire to prove her wrong. Once he was able to prove said fact she promptly admitted her tricky ruse and he has since given up on trying to win.

Today he lives at home with his stubborn wife, teenage twins, a giant moose-poodle, two yorkies, a green-cheeked conure, a massive prehistoric tortoise, and a head full of imaginary people. There are also some fish, but he refuses to talk about them.

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5 stars
399 (61%)
4 stars
155 (23%)
3 stars
65 (10%)
2 stars
26 (4%)
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5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
8 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2025
Michael Manning you needed to root canal the Selene hole you made and instead you kept digging

Since Michael lost his mind and had a character he loving created turn into a kid killing undead flesh sculptor these books have gone wrong.

Personally I blame Covid.
Profile Image for Jkane.
719 reviews2 followers
July 27, 2025
I'm usually a big fan of Michael Manning's novels, but I'll typically read his entire series at one time. Here, I read Book 1 when it came out, but by the time this installment was released, I had forgotten most everything other than the basics.

I did not care for the shifting narratives. the story is told from Will's perspective the least, then his son's perspective, and most is told from Will's wife's perspective. This made the story very disjointed, and boring. Also, when my expectation is one thing and I am thrown a curveball regarding who the story is about, I become disinterested.

On a positive, the author was able to link this case to Mordecai and Penny's story, which was pretty cool.
Profile Image for Steve.
630 reviews24 followers
February 26, 2025
I dove into the audiobook "Daughter of the Dragon" by Michael G. Manning with high expectations, given the author’s knack for weaving intricate fantasy tales. Published in 2025 and narrated by the masterful Tim Gerard Reynolds, this 2nd installment in the Wrath of the Stormking series delivers a gripping continuation of Will and Selene’s saga. Here’s my take on this experience.

The story picks up with the Stormking, Will, brokering a fragile peace with the West while an elven invasion brews in the East. Hoping to avert war, he sets off to find a mythical gate to the elven homeland, leaving his kingdom—and his wife, Selene—in what he believes is safety. He’s mistaken. The elves, cunning and manipulative, have already infiltrated the realm, setting the stage for a tense, multi-layered conflict. Selene, the lich queen of Terabinia, steps into the spotlight here, defending her throne against a conspiracy that slithers through the shadows. Her isolation without Will amplifies the stakes, forcing her into a moral crucible: embrace an ancient evil for power or risk everything she holds dear.

Manning’s world-building remains a standout, painting a vivid tapestry of political intrigue and magical peril. The elves aren’t just foes—they’re architects of chaos, their schemes unraveling with a slow-burn intensity that keeps you hooked. Selene’s character arc is the heart of the tale, her defiance clashing with vulnerability in a way that feels raw and human, despite her undead nature. Will’s journey, meanwhile, offers a counterpoint—his absence from the kingdom underscores the weight of his choices, leaving you wondering how his path will reconnect with Selene’s.

Tim Gerard Reynolds’ narration elevates the experience to another level. His deep, resonant voice captures the gravitas of Selene’s struggles and the urgency of the unfolding plot. He shifts seamlessly between characters, giving each a distinct flavor—Selene’s steely resolve, the elves’ sly menace, and even the loathsome ally’s unsettling drawl. Reynolds’ pacing mirrors the story’s rhythm, lingering on moments of tension and accelerating through bursts of action, making the audiobook a cinematic treat.

Highlights include a particularly chilling scene where Selene confronts the depth of the elven plot—her realization is a gut punch, delivered with Reynolds’ perfect timing. Another gem is Will’s exploration of the elven gate, a sequence brimming with mystery and subtle danger. Manning’s signature cliffhangers are present, though they’re less jarring here, weaving anticipation into the narrative fabric without breaking it.

As for flaws, some side characters—like Oliver—feel overstretched, occasionally bogging down the momentum. Yet, this is minor against the story’s strengths. It’s not perfect, but it’s a compelling, beautifully narrated chapter in Manning’s saga, leaving you eager for the next without fully resolving the tension—just as a great series should
Profile Image for Liora Lunis.
18 reviews
August 9, 2025
I'm not going to spoil it, but the ending of this book had me sobbing, heart-wrenching, and gasping to catch my breath.
32 reviews
December 14, 2025
Can it get worse?! (Great book)

Will and Selene are, once again, in a dragon's load of trouble and this time Oliver is in it up to his neck as well. I have loved all the books Michael Manning has put out the only thing that makes me want to rip out my hair is the penchant for cliffhangers. One of my favorite quotes fits well here: "Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup"
Profile Image for Kristine.
3,404 reviews52 followers
March 15, 2025
4.75 Stars ⭐️

THIS. This was my surprise read of the week!

I sometimes forget how much I can love a series when I have been away from it for a long time and it is such a nice and pleasant surprise to jump back into a story and remember how much you loved it in the first place.

This series is actually the continuation or maybe a better way to say it is that it is a spin off of a previously completed series - The Art of the Adept. If you haven't read that series....stop.

Stop right now and go find it and start with book 1.
You will NOT be disappointed.
I LOVED that series.
Truly.

So, that series ended and time has moved on, and THIS series picks up years later. As you might have guessed by the title of the book, this book focuses on Selene. Selene, who was the daughter of a King, who actually happened to be a dragon....make sense? If not, don't worry, it is a bit confusing.

AND, to make things even more interesting. Selene has had quite the story arc. She started off as a really great character. Fell in love with our favorite MC William (Will), got married, then everything went to H**l. If I'm being honest, as much as I loved the prior series, I DNF'd the last book in that series because ....well, because. It started going in a CRAZY direction and at about the 40% mark, I started thinking "What the heck?" so I jumped over to read the reviews and EVERYONE was saying DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. Basically, Selene jumped the shark and just devolved into an awful person. So, I did something I would have never thought I'd do and stopped reading right there. Boy, am I glad I did.

Honestly, I think this entire series was meant to rectify that last book. It is definitely meant to be a redemptive arc for Selene, and in part for Will as well. Did I miss anything by not finishing book 5 in The Art of the Adept? Nope. Not a bit. In fact, I think I'm enjoying this series so much more because I didn't have her awful behavior in the back of my mind. To me, it was much easier to see her TRYING to become a better person. Trying to be a good step mom to Oliver - and actually it was a bit humorous because feelings do not come naturally to Selene. Well, they really do not exist at all.

The bad thing about this book...? Not enough page time for Will. It was criminal actually, but it IS called Daughter of the Dragon. This series revolves around the plot line that the elves are attempting an invasion because apparently their homeland is not the nice paradise that everyone seemed to think it was. And elves, well, they play the long game, so there is a lot that has been in motion for a very long time.

We also have the recurrence of a REALLY bad guy that we thought was gone. Well, he's not. And then there is the game that Selene is playing by having a doppelganger playing the role of Queen whenever she is busy doing something else. All of this comes to a head when the war begins.
Not going to go into spoilers but let's just say that this book was full of action.

As usual, things left off creating more questions and while we were given some answers (finally) I am still going to be anxiously awaiting the next book.
Profile Image for Quentin.
49 reviews
February 26, 2025
I am bored and offended.

The title and cover of the book should have been a warning to me that this book is not about our old beloved protagonist but goes on yet another side-quest to make major changes to the supporting cast rather than developing the story of Will. It's a heavy sacrifice to make if you spend almost an entire book on a side quest since many readers like myself have some pressing questions that have been begging to be answered for a while now!

I've read the book then listend to the audiobook as well.
But the "Wrath of the Stormking" series is hardly about the Stormking nor his wrath.

I am not necessarily complaining about the developement of the story. But seriously... waiting for the main story to progress, for the main mystery to be explored further is torture. And having to spend so much time with rather unlikable and boring characters like Celine (in my opinion) doesn't help.

This ignores the inconsistencies in the magic system etc. so many have pointed out as well.
Anyway... I still have hope for the next book.
Profile Image for Tyler Mackey.
91 reviews
February 25, 2025
Complicated thoughts on this one. On the one hand, we had the best examples of the complex expression of magic in the series, and so many things have been built on in interesting ways. On the other, there were so many contrivances that I stopped having any real tension about halfway through, because why would there actually be stakes?

It's interesting to see so much of Seline, finally, and she *almost* becomes a real character this time. I think this is a round-up from 3.5 because while it has a lot of things I liked, so much of this was disappointing or cliché compared to what it could have been. Hopefully Book 3/Book8 will be back to full length, because you could really feel the 300 page lack this time.
1 review
March 6, 2025
I truly enjoy this series!

But I have to say, book 2 of the Warth of the Stormking series "Daughter of the Dragon" has left me disappointed. A lot of pages were spent going off on different story side-lines in verbose detail, not feeling to be of great benefit to the main story. The repetitiveness of a lot of the story line facts and details make it hard to stay engaged with the action and/or emotional level of the moment. It's like you can tell when Michael manning stops and restarts writing because facts and premises that have already been established in the book get repeated in detail over and over. It makes the reading/listening tedious.

And now with that said, I am truly looking forward to book 3!
3 reviews
January 8, 2025
brilliant addition to the series

Daughter of the Dragon

Sometimes, a book in a beloved series falls short of the high expectations built over time, especially after a prolonged hiatus. However, Daughter of the Dragon manages to deliver an enjoyable and engaging plot. Its is full intrigue and excitement. I truly enjoyed the storyline and look forward to seeing where the next installment takes us.
1 review
December 5, 2024
ugh why can’t it be longer!

My only complaint is the length. Mr. Manning is hands down my favorite author. The problem is even a 1000 page book wouldn’t have been enough. Now I have to read some subpar novel that’s as close to his as possible while I wait for his genius brain to produce the next book. Or reread his series for what will be the 5th freakin time.
Profile Image for Anette.
70 reviews6 followers
May 10, 2025
I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical after the last book, I disliked Selene so much by the end of the first series and I was in no way ready to forgive her, and thought Will did so way too easily.
(Though I suppose he’s had years, while I read the books back to back )
I get it now though, and this one was exactly what I needed it to be, and now I can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Kazi Ananda Shams.
18 reviews2 followers
June 15, 2025
I gave up on the book when they resurrected the dragon. These books are too long and relationship between Selene and Will is boring. The truth is the story about Will's son and elf invasion has some potential but not if Will is in the story. Will is too op and his story ended after the last series. There can be more stories in the same universe but not with Will as the hero.
Profile Image for Sarah Axling.
15 reviews
December 1, 2024
Gripping and so exciting

This book has so many twists and turns that I almost got whiplash! It was nearly impossible to put down. I devoured it and was begging for more! Well done, sir!
45 reviews2 followers
January 13, 2025
Worth the wait!

This one was worth the wait. Selfishly I'm hoping for the next installment soon. The whole concept of this universe is fascinating and I've enjoyed hearing from Mort and Penny again.
Profile Image for Bill Quinn.
57 reviews
April 11, 2025
Amazing!

The best fantasy I have ever read. Manning's writing has grown tremendously over the years, and his readers are reaping the benefits now. If you haven't read any of his books, do yourself a favor and start with The Blacksmith's Son. You won't be disappointed.
1 review
April 23, 2025
Really boring.
This epilogue series is a huge disappointment so far.
I want mode Will, not ridiculous side characters.
Usually I am able the authors books in 2 days, it took me two months this time because it felt like a chore.
12 reviews
May 6, 2025
gah so good

Such a good book with so many twists and turns i couldn’t put it down

Man tho that cliff hanger was so mean and now I’ve gotta wait to see what happens next! Can’t wait for the next book
2 reviews
June 22, 2025
These characters and this series are phenomenal. Easy to read and the magic foundation makes sense and is well explained if you steer with Art of the Adept. I can’t wait for the next one - it’s been the most fun I’ve had reading novels!
2 reviews1 follower
December 2, 2024
Great second book!!!

Great follow up to the first. My only regret is having binge read it… now I will have to wait for the next one.
10 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2024
great!

Micheal I can’t wait to read the 3rd. Chefs kiss on this one. I can’t wait to see what happens next
1 review
December 3, 2024
Solid book. Every time I tried to put it down I got drawn back in almost immediately.
1 review
December 19, 2024
Very enjoying

The book was exciting. I enjoyed it very much so much so that I could not put it down. Lots of action better character development is very enjoyable as well.
26 reviews
December 20, 2024
Great series

Another awesome book by Michael G. Not thrilled about waiting for the next book! I highly recommend Michael g Manning to anyone who loves fantasy!
73 reviews
December 21, 2024
On form!

This was a good book. It had a lot of fights, magical solutions to problems and good MC’s and villains. Well done.
13 reviews
January 2, 2025
Great read

Once again Michael has created a great read with twists and turns galore. Can't wait for the next book to get written.
Profile Image for Jens Scott.
4 reviews
January 25, 2025
Cant wait for next book

Great book. if you know MGM's books you will love it. Cannot wait for next one. Please hurry up and finish the next one.
7 reviews
January 26, 2025
Nice

It was nice to know what happened next to Will and others but the book lacked something. Overall i recommend this book
Profile Image for Steve  Flanagan.
184 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2025
A mite slow in the beginning but then kicked it in gear and was a great read. Made me wish that the next one was already written.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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