What do you think?
Rate this book
Winter Black #27
Winter's Legacy
He tortured her husband. Now he wants her soul.
Private Investigator Winter Black has faced monsters before. But Erik Waller is something else entirely—a sadistic fanboy of her serial killer brother who’s obsessed with proving he’s the ultimate predator. He’s already left her family scarred and bleeding. Now he’s taken a boy.
Just like Justin once did.
But Erik isn’t copying Winter’s past. He’s rewriting it, turning her memories into a blueprint for fresh horrors. And he wants her front and center for the grand finale.
As Winter races to untangle Erik’s grisly game, the lines blur between justice and vengeance, survival and sacrifice. Because Erik doesn’t just want to destroy her.
He wants to become her legacy. And to make her his.
Winter’s Legacy, the breathtaking final installment of the Winter Black Season Two series, is a haunting, heart-pounding finale that will leave you gasping. One last case. One final choice. And only one way out.
Private Investigator Winter Black has faced monsters before. But Erik Waller is something else entirely—a sadistic fanboy of her serial killer brother who’s obsessed with proving he’s the ultimate predator. He’s already left her family scarred and bleeding. Now he’s taken a boy.
Just like Justin once did.
But Erik isn’t copying Winter’s past. He’s rewriting it, turning her memories into a blueprint for fresh horrors. And he wants her front and center for the grand finale.
As Winter races to untangle Erik’s grisly game, the lines blur between justice and vengeance, survival and sacrifice. Because Erik doesn’t just want to destroy her.
He wants to become her legacy. And to make her his.
Winter’s Legacy, the breathtaking final installment of the Winter Black Season Two series, is a haunting, heart-pounding finale that will leave you gasping. One last case. One final choice. And only one way out.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2025
639 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
224 books2,146 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 19, 2025
I'm sad to see this series end, but it was time. Winter is one of my favorite characters with so much resilience.
May 31, 2025
Winter's Legacy, Series Season Two: Book Nine. So sad to see the series end. Winter finally finds inner peace glad she and her husband finally found time for each other. A great series. A must read. Great job Mary.
October 12, 2025
Sad to see the series end.. but glad it ended the way it did! Looking forward to another Mary Stone series.
December 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
‘Everything’s bigger—and deadlier—in Texas...
Finally free from the claustrophobic worry caused by her psychotic baby brother’s bloodthirsty reign, former Special Agent Winter Black—newly Mrs. Winter Black-Dalton—is ready for a fresh start in Austin, Texas. With her husband and former partner, Noah Dalton, at her side, she’s hoping to shed the skin of her past and return to hunting down criminals, but in a very different way...’
Winter's Legacy is Book #27 in the Winter Black Series (Winter Black: Season Two Book #9) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
‘Everything’s bigger—and deadlier—in Texas...
Finally free from the claustrophobic worry caused by her psychotic baby brother’s bloodthirsty reign, former Special Agent Winter Black—newly Mrs. Winter Black-Dalton—is ready for a fresh start in Austin, Texas. With her husband and former partner, Noah Dalton, at her side, she’s hoping to shed the skin of her past and return to hunting down criminals, but in a very different way...’
Winter's Legacy is Book #27 in the Winter Black Series (Winter Black: Season Two Book #9) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
May 21, 2025
And what a legacy it is…
**Spoiler Alert!!**
*sigh* We’ve arrived at the final book in the series. I, for once, found myself slowing down to truly take in the ending of a Winter Black story. Normally, I find myself sprinting to the end of the story, desperate to see what happens. This time, sensing that we were about to say our bittersweet goodbyes to Winter & Noah, I forced myself to savor the ending. Reading each word and weighing it thoughtfully.
I love that Winter was Winter from the first page of book one of season one, to the final page of the book of season two. In between she loved, she lost, she grew, and through it all she found the strength to persevere through evil and darkness and ultimately found her way back into the light.
Thank you Mary Stone for creating a main character and a group of supporting characters that kept me company through so many nights. Nights where I spent hours cheering the good guys on & railing against the bad guys and always hoping that somehow Winter would eventually find peace.
Thank you, sincerely, for giving her that gift in the end. It somehow gave me hope that no matter the darkness that we find ourselves in, that somehow, some way, we can all work our way back into the light. 💜
**Spoiler Alert!!**
*sigh* We’ve arrived at the final book in the series. I, for once, found myself slowing down to truly take in the ending of a Winter Black story. Normally, I find myself sprinting to the end of the story, desperate to see what happens. This time, sensing that we were about to say our bittersweet goodbyes to Winter & Noah, I forced myself to savor the ending. Reading each word and weighing it thoughtfully.
I love that Winter was Winter from the first page of book one of season one, to the final page of the book of season two. In between she loved, she lost, she grew, and through it all she found the strength to persevere through evil and darkness and ultimately found her way back into the light.
Thank you Mary Stone for creating a main character and a group of supporting characters that kept me company through so many nights. Nights where I spent hours cheering the good guys on & railing against the bad guys and always hoping that somehow Winter would eventually find peace.
Thank you, sincerely, for giving her that gift in the end. It somehow gave me hope that no matter the darkness that we find ourselves in, that somehow, some way, we can all work our way back into the light. 💜
May 15, 2025
I have read every Winter Black book since the first one was released. While I'm sad to see the series end, this lady needs a rest!
Another serial killer spawned by her brother is after Winter. But he has different designs on her. He doesn't want to kill her; he wants to own her. If he can eliminate everyone around her, he believes he can "train" her. He really doesn't know Winter Black. This woman will fight hammer and tong if you touch her family. So, she's going on the offense. She is determined to track down this monstrous person who had her husband kidnapped and almost killed. Her husband Noah is by her side and together with her trusty secretary they begin to unravel the story behind this killer. It really was a great ending to this series. Winter may have finally found inner peace and released the last bit of love for her brother. I liked that she and her husband are together and facing the future. Fun read. Good work!
Another serial killer spawned by her brother is after Winter. But he has different designs on her. He doesn't want to kill her; he wants to own her. If he can eliminate everyone around her, he believes he can "train" her. He really doesn't know Winter Black. This woman will fight hammer and tong if you touch her family. So, she's going on the offense. She is determined to track down this monstrous person who had her husband kidnapped and almost killed. Her husband Noah is by her side and together with her trusty secretary they begin to unravel the story behind this killer. It really was a great ending to this series. Winter may have finally found inner peace and released the last bit of love for her brother. I liked that she and her husband are together and facing the future. Fun read. Good work!
May 16, 2025
Winter Black-Dalton Private Detective is chasing ghosts. Noah Dalton, Special Agent FBI is healing from his last run in with a psychopath. Justin Black is still creating followers all of them hoping to win his attention with their horrible twisted crimes. Then there is Eric Waller who wants to manipulate people like Justin did and shadow almost exactly the same horrible crimes Justin performed.
Will Eric Waller do what Justin Black couldn't? Force everyone's hand to make himself greater than Justin. Will Winter win or will she fail and this be the end of Winter and Noah?
Winter's Legacy written by Mary Stone has traveled through so many of Winters trials and come out wounded but good. Will this be the End for Winter Black? You need to read this book, really the whole series. I enjoyed reading it very much.
Will Eric Waller do what Justin Black couldn't? Force everyone's hand to make himself greater than Justin. Will Winter win or will she fail and this be the end of Winter and Noah?
Winter's Legacy written by Mary Stone has traveled through so many of Winters trials and come out wounded but good. Will this be the End for Winter Black? You need to read this book, really the whole series. I enjoyed reading it very much.
May 15, 2025
A long & tumultuous ride with Winter Black finally comes to a close with an exciting, page turner again. A decouple of her brother, jays Tim, has been tormenting her for a while & tried to duplicate Justin’s murderous ways. He kidnaps a young g man, leaving a trail of murder & clues for Winter. Can she solve the mystery to save the victim, her family & herself? A wonderful ending that will bring all her adventures together & a future worth living for Winter & her husband, Noah. Don’t miss this one, it will not disappoint
May 16, 2025
Bombastic ending. This last book of the series has everything you wish for in the thriller. Winter is out in the middle of the horror caused by the psychopat, Justin’s follower. Everything and everyone Winter loves is not only in danger but in dire situation. Mary weaves the brilliant story full of horror, secrets and twist to the brilliant end. She is the master story teller. Though I will miss Winter, I know the great new series are coming. This book was the best of the best . Thank you Mary. You made me very emotional. Lida
May 18, 2025
What an amazing ending to one of my favorite series ever! Absolutely love Winter's character and how this series unfolded and wrapped up. Someone is wanting Justin's attention and wants to "create his own little family with Winter playing front and center". Winter has other plans but it trapped in his web. Are Noah and Winter about to loose the only family they have or will they prevail? A must read! Sad to see Winter and Noah go but the ride was worth it. Highly recommend this novel and series!!
November 1, 2025
I have read all 27 books and with each one i grew to love Winter Black more. I cried with her, cheered her on. This last of the series brought more tears than ever as i had to say goodbye to who i felt was a friend. I held my breath to the end watching Winter fight back, hoping she would win. It is hard writing this review without spoiling the plot but i highly recommend reading all of Winter’s journeys. I know you will love her as much as i do. I applaud the author for a story well told, for taking me on the journey with her.
May 15, 2025
As Noah is healing now from his kidnapping, his mom is flying home. Winter and him are trying to get life back to normal. But that’s not going to be easy. There is still little know about Erik Slauson, or as Eve discovers his true name is Erik Waller. More investigation shows he is a big fan of Justin Black. Now some things are falling into place. But locating this “Justin Want A Be” proves to be tough. Fantastic read as they try to get Erik’s location to stop his quest.
May 15, 2025
The Winter Black series is always a very fast-paced addictive read that doesn't disappoint and this one is no different. Has you hooked from start to finish. An edge of your seat page turner. Did not realize this was the end. Thank you, Mary Stone, for introducing us to Winter Black and all the great characters. You are an amazing storyteller. Winter will definitely be missed.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
May 18, 2025
The last but not the end
This being the final book in this series is kind of sad but I will, at.some point start over. The good thing about that is that the next book in the series is already waiting. I don't have to wait for it. The Winter Black book series is excellent, A compilation of stories unlike any other. Great characters that evolved naturally, with scenarios that are barely believable. From book 1 to book 27, excellent writing.
This being the final book in this series is kind of sad but I will, at.some point start over. The good thing about that is that the next book in the series is already waiting. I don't have to wait for it. The Winter Black book series is excellent, A compilation of stories unlike any other. Great characters that evolved naturally, with scenarios that are barely believable. From book 1 to book 27, excellent writing.
November 8, 2025
One of the Best Series
This series was an amazing read. At times, I had to put down a book because it was so intense but ended up picking it up again a few minutes later. Bravo to Mary Stone, you are truly one of the best mystery writers ever. I enjoy all your series including the completion of Autumn Trent. I look forward to all your series and if you are looking for a great author, Mary Stone in one of those.
This series was an amazing read. At times, I had to put down a book because it was so intense but ended up picking it up again a few minutes later. Bravo to Mary Stone, you are truly one of the best mystery writers ever. I enjoy all your series including the completion of Autumn Trent. I look forward to all your series and if you are looking for a great author, Mary Stone in one of those.
May 14, 2025
Erik Ealler thinks he’s better than Justin Black and he’s out to prove it. As Winter and Noah try to navigate the horrors Erik has thrown at them they come to realize that he wants Winter as his one and only. Trying to find and “train” an apprentice, plus grab Winter … well that’s not going to happen if they have anything to say about it. Awesome read from start to finish.
May 15, 2025
In true Mary Stone fashion this latest and last Winter Black story is pulse pounding, intense, terrifying and incredibly hard to put down! This villain is exceptionally cruel as he tries to emulate his hero, the evil Justin Black. Without a doubt this is one of Mary Stone’s best novels! Going to miss you Winter Black! A perfect finale for my favorite heroine!!
May 16, 2025
As sad as it is read Winter Black’s last book, it was exceptional. I was worried about how it was going to end, but, it was great that she can finally solved the case and the mystery that’s been taunting her. She can her fears and worries behind her and continue with her life without the past shadowing her constantly.
May 19, 2025
Winter's Legacy
Winter fights for justice with a Justin wannabe. She and hubby track and catch the serial killer. Winter shoots him dead when he leaves her no choice to save her grandparents, husband and a women and her two boys from certain death. What a great story, love this author.
Winter fights for justice with a Justin wannabe. She and hubby track and catch the serial killer. Winter shoots him dead when he leaves her no choice to save her grandparents, husband and a women and her two boys from certain death. What a great story, love this author.
May 19, 2025
Just Fantastic
This has been an absolutely brilliant series to read. Winter Black Dalton and Noah have faced trauma with every new crime, but at least they have had a happy ending. I am really sad that this series is over but it had a lovely ending. Thank you Mary Stone. Now we look forward to what you have in your next set of books.
This has been an absolutely brilliant series to read. Winter Black Dalton and Noah have faced trauma with every new crime, but at least they have had a happy ending. I am really sad that this series is over but it had a lovely ending. Thank you Mary Stone. Now we look forward to what you have in your next set of books.
May 22, 2025
This was a great story about Winter trying to stop who trying to be like her evil brother but Winter goes all out and get him before anybody else gets hurt and succeeds with lots of suspense and action. I’m sorry to see this series to come to a close. Thank you for the many stories you wrote about Winter.
May 23, 2025
The End??
I won’t believe this is “The End”.
Mary Stone hinted this would be the last of the Winter Black-Dalton series…
Nope, I’m just not accepting that. I need more of Winter and Noah. Every book kept me hanging onto every word. Every page closer to the end had me clinging to the finale but also dreading not having the next chapter….
I won’t believe this is “The End”.
Mary Stone hinted this would be the last of the Winter Black-Dalton series…
Nope, I’m just not accepting that. I need more of Winter and Noah. Every book kept me hanging onto every word. Every page closer to the end had me clinging to the finale but also dreading not having the next chapter….
May 31, 2025
Loved the entire series. Going to miss Winter Black
I loved this entire series. The writing and suspense was amazing and in the end I hope Winter Black and family does find the peaceful life they so deserve. Mary Stone is a great story teller. I'm off to one of her other series with no doubt hours of suspense awaits.
I loved this entire series. The writing and suspense was amazing and in the end I hope Winter Black and family does find the peaceful life they so deserve. Mary Stone is a great story teller. I'm off to one of her other series with no doubt hours of suspense awaits.
June 1, 2025
What a great ending!
What an amazing ride it has been with Winter & Noah! The action, suspense, sick villains and great friends made for an epic story from beginning to end. I'm so glad Winter and Dalton finally get the closure and rewards of their labor. I didn't want it to end but it was concluded fabulously!
What an amazing ride it has been with Winter & Noah! The action, suspense, sick villains and great friends made for an epic story from beginning to end. I'm so glad Winter and Dalton finally get the closure and rewards of their labor. I didn't want it to end but it was concluded fabulously!
July 26, 2025
Winter's Legacy:Winter Black Season Two ( Winter Black FBI Mysteries Book 27)
OMG This book was so beyond what but I am glad that I waited so long to read it. It ended a lot of things for Winter but also dragged her from the darkness that was all around her and led her to the light and the life she was supposed to have. I am truly happy for her but I will always miss Winter.
OMG This book was so beyond what but I am glad that I waited so long to read it. It ended a lot of things for Winter but also dragged her from the darkness that was all around her and led her to the light and the life she was supposed to have. I am truly happy for her but I will always miss Winter.
December 17, 2025
A fantastic story and series
I have really enjoyed reading all of the Winter Black stories, and I'm definitely sad to see the end. However, it was a perfect story to end the series. It's a definite must read book and series.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
I have really enjoyed reading all of the Winter Black stories, and I'm definitely sad to see the end. However, it was a perfect story to end the series. It's a definite must read book and series.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
May 17, 2025
This is book 27 in the Winter Black FBI Mysteries series. In this series finale, she and Noah were finally able to solve the haunting mystery. This truly is an amazing series and I think the ending was perfect. Winter Black is my favorite character of Mary Stone’s and she will be missed
May 30, 2025
Two psychotic murderers up close and personal to Winter Black.
First her younger brother, and then one of his '"fans", leading Winter into a horror of murder, kidnapping, and brutality. Who will be left at the end of the horror show?
First her younger brother, and then one of his '"fans", leading Winter into a horror of murder, kidnapping, and brutality. Who will be left at the end of the horror show?
June 11, 2025
Great ride!!
Winter and Noah's adventures continue to keep you guessing and hoping! Anticipation and curiosity will cause
sleepless nights as you keep turning pages in this story!
Winter and Noah's adventures continue to keep you guessing and hoping! Anticipation and curiosity will cause
sleepless nights as you keep turning pages in this story!
June 30, 2025
Thank you
I can't believe this is the last book. I will miss Winter and Noah. It's been quite the journey and I have enjoyed it. Thank you Mary Stone for sharing them with us readers. Can't wait for new characters and new story lines.
I can't believe this is the last book. I will miss Winter and Noah. It's been quite the journey and I have enjoyed it. Thank you Mary Stone for sharing them with us readers. Can't wait for new characters and new story lines.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews