Winter's Chill

The Nordic Wars #2

by Morgan L. Busse

Fighter. Emissary. Long-Lost Daughter.

Brighid has one mission as she returns to the north: to warn her people of the oath that binds them. But the mountains are treacherous, and snow comes early, leaving her on death’s doorstep—until she has an unexpected encounter that not only reveals a secret about her past, but also brings new allies into her life.

Meanwhile, the healer Kaeden must come to terms with the awakening of his Eldaran power. With winter approaching and the war on hold, he ventures to the White City to uncover his heritage. As he walks the ancient halls of his people’s birthplace, he discovers not all adversaries are across the battle line. He must navigate political opponents while searching for a way to stop those of his kind who have turned to the darkness.

Yet even the bitterness of winter cannot keep Brighid and Kaeden apart. A connection has been forged between them, and their bond might be the one thing that could save the Nordic people and end the war.

Genres: Fantasy, Christian Fiction, Christian, Young Adult, Christian Fantasy, Audiobook, Young Adult Fantasy

304 pages, Hardcover

First published August 5, 2025

About the author

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the Follower of the Word series and the award-winning steampunk series, The Soul Chronicles. Her debut novel, Daughter of Light, was a Christy and Carol Award finalist. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

Reviews

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars ✨

Clean YA Nordic Fantasy

“The words were a mixture of joy and sorrow, and the longing for something more.”

Winters Chill picks right up where Winter’s Maiden left off. Again, the main characters are separated and on their own paths. I enjoyed getting to know new characters and the plot has thickened! I’m still enjoying the story, but it does follow the same formula as
most of this author’s work. I found the characters development to feel a little flat and would like to go a little deeper. The faith elements are still what make her books stand out and I appreciate the way Busse always makes that part of her writing shine and come across as the most important thing. My favorite part in this installment was the addition of the bear and the bond that Brighid and it share. Looking forward to reading the last installment, and hoping the main characters are actually in the same place together. Would recommend !!

[Sharon Loves to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐

I was happy to be chosen as an arc reader for both Winter's Maiden and Winter's Chill. I was not required to write a positive review--all opinions are my authentic thoughts.

I enjoyed Winter's Chill and found myself wanting to pick it up and follow Kaedon and Brighid's journeys. They are wonderful characters, as I said in my review of Winter's Maiden. I continued to enjoy their characters, but I wished for more development in Kaedon's character. Brighid's character growth and identity is well fleshed out, but I felt like Kaedon's was relatively stagnant. (Perhaps the last installment will be Kaedon's turn to shine.) I was really missing Elphsaba (spelling?) in this installment, as she would have loved to have seen all that happens to Brighid in this installment. Busse did a good job of making me feel Brighid's loss of her.

I did feel like the plot was predictable. Everything that I thought should happen, did happen. Strangely, it didn't diminish my enjoyment, but I would have enjoyed a few moments of shock and/or unexpected delight. This is a low-key plot--don't expect twists, shock, and jaw-dropping moments. It is low-key, but enjoyable nonetheless. (Perhaps I should say that this kind of trilogy isn't my favorite. It isn't Busse's fault, it is common author-practice to have one plot spread out over multiple books, but it isn't my favorite. I prefer a trilogy where there is one overarching plot, but where each individual book has a sub-plot which is resolved by the end of that installment. Busse's trilogies aren't written that way, and that's ok, it's just not what I prefer.)

Ok, one more thing. (I feel like I am being quite negative, but I really did enjoy the book!) I felt that the side characters were all painted with the same brush. Matthias and Elphsaba are gone, and I think they were the side characters with the most "color." Without them, the other characters didn't stand out individually.

Despite the above noted negatives, I really am enjoying these books! Definitely worth your time and investment. Kaedon and Brighid are lovely characters going against the angsty grain of modern YA literature. Please, please, authors, write more characters such as these!💜

[Reese Songbird · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I love Kaedin so much more in this one! You really got to see his character develop and change from where he was at in the first book. He really carried this book for me. Well him and the allegory woven throughout. Once again, top notch faith elements woven through the book. If you’re not looking closely, you may not see, but it’s there!
Unfortunately this one fell a little flat for me at times and I did get bored, but it picked up at the end.
Looking forward to book three

[Erin Dydek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I wanted and more! Winter's Chill picks up right where Winter's Maiden left off. I enjoyed following Brigid as she made her escape and sought answers about her past and her mysterious gifts. I had my suspicions confirmed in the best way possible, which made this book extremely satisfying on that front. This book also provided the suspense of searching for a way to defeat the Shadonae. Even though the war was paused for the winter, Kaeden felt the weight of what to do to bring Justice to the fallen Elderans. His side of the story steadily builds to an exciting climax that will pull readers into eager anticipation for the next book. There are some dark chapters but the ending leads to hope of a future of peace and unity. I can't wait to see how the final installment of this series plays out!!!

[D.T. Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed the first book, but I liked this one even more. I'm looking forward to the final book next year.

[Sienna the Bookmaiden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another lovely tale from Morgan L. Busse!

My favorite part of this story was the gorgeous Nordic-inspired worldbuilding. As someone with Scandinavian heritage, it made me happy. 💜 I also adored the found family themes!

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I finish one of Morgan Busse's books, I'm sad to see it end. Even in the parts that have no action, I'm drawn in by the vivid descriptions. I live in each story she tells.

And I lived in Brighid and Kaeden. Their stories have been fascinating to read in both the first and second books of this series. In fact, I'm still on top of that mountain, so I'm having trouble coming up with words for a review...

And you know what? I think that's ok. As I'm revisiting different parts of this book in my mind, reliving these scenes, words would never do them justice anyway.

If you love Christian fantasy that also has parallels, though small portions, to different accounts in the Bible, then you really should be reading Morgan Busse's books.

I just adore them.

~I was given a complimentary ebook of this, no positive review was required, etc, but I made sure to buy a hardback to have on my shelf.~

[Coralie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Morgan Busse's books. I love the heart of her stories and the creative premises she uses to draw out those heart truths. This is the sequel to Winter's Maiden which introduced us to some really intriguing characters.

I felt like the pacing of this book was much more chill than the first one (see what I did there ;) I'll see myself out). It wasn't slow as in not engaging - I was still very engaged and found it hard to put down. But the whole book felt almost like...like taking a long, deep breath. It was like we hibernated for the winter along with the characters. The war paused so there weren't as many battles as the first book, but the characters still dealt with intrigue, survival, and the inner wrestlings that make me really excited to see what's going to happen in the final book.

We got to spend some closer time with the bear clan, which was a lot of fun. One of my favorite parts of the first book was the distinct cultures of the Nordics and the nuance between the five clans, the clanless, and even the southern cultures outside of Nordica. So it was a treat to dig in deeper with the bear clan and a little with the wolf clan, too. We also got to see one of the southern cities to contrast their customs and priorities with the Nordics. And Kaeden sought to learn more about the Eldaran traditions and purposes, too. So, lots of really fun culture and worldbuilding in this one!

I loved watching both Brighid and Kaeden grow through the winter and the sprinkling of promise for future potential to be fulfilled. There were some great side characters in this one, too - both returning ones and new ones. Treyvar is shaping up to be one of my favorites, too. Selma also seems to be someone to keep an eye on. It was fun seeing Brighid meet and train with new countrymen and to see a glimpse into what life growing up with a clan may have been like.

Overall, a great sequel, and I'm excited to see how this comes to an end! No swearing, some fantasy violence, and a subtle, clean romance. Busse digs into themes of home, patriotism, obedience to God's design, communication, humanity, survival, and more. Suitable for teens.

[E.F. Buckles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recieved and ARC copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. The following review is my honest opinion.

My review for this second book in the Nordic Wars series is going to have to be a lot shorter than my review for book one because of how many spoilers there would be if I described too much. Suffice it to say that I enjoyed the continuation of this story a lot. We get a lot of needed answers in this book about Brighid’s heritage and why she has the powers that she does. I really liked how she was developed here, the things she learned about herself, and I especially liked her new bear friend who is a very good boy indeed.

Kaeden discovers new things about himself as well, and I found it interesting to get a deeper look at his world. One of my favorite scenes in the whole book was one where something he did was reminiscent of a moment from the Bible. (See the Spiritual section of the Content Advisory for details if you don’t mind spoilers.) It was very well done.

Overall, I thought this was a very good continuation of the story that got me further invested in the world and these characters, and I look forward to finding out what will happen in book three. (Tbh, I’m probably going to reread this second book before the third one comes out just because this world is so well developed, I would like to absorb it a little more before diving into the finale.)

Content Advisory:

Possible spoilers ahead, but I've tried to dance around details and names.

Language:

No real swears, only made up exclamations.

Violence/Scariness:

There is some fighting, but what violence is present is only moderately described. There can be mentions of blood, but nothing as graphic as the accidental death that Brighid caused in book 1.

There is implied torture toward the end of the book. Thankfully, it is only implied, and we aren’t told the exact actions that the torturer takes. It’s implied that the character getting tortured endures it for a long time, but due to what kind of being he is, it doesn’t kill him because he keeps healing. There is a lot of blood mentioned on and around him, though.

Sexual/Romance:

Our main love interests are separated for most of the book, but they dream about things that are really happening in each other’s lives.

There’s some talk about the fact that Brighid was an illegitimate child that her mother had out of wedlock with a man who passed through her homeland, but nothing is described.

Spiritual/Magic:

There are further mentions and scenes featuring both the powers of the Eldaran and their corrupted counterparts.

There are also further mentions of “The Word” and moments where the Word speaks to Brighid and Kaeden.

One corrupted Eldaran has the ability to summon some kind of wraith-like beings (what exactly they are is not explained by the end of the book) but Kaeden finds he has the ability to hold them off with light that emits from his hands. One scene where Kaeden must hold up his hand to hold off the wraiths strongly reflects the moment from the book of Exodus in the Bible where, as long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were able to defeat the Amalekites, but Moses’s arms would get tired, so Aaron and Hur helped Moses keep his hands up for the duration of the battle.

Brighid’s “red haze” finally gets an explanation, and it’s a natural gift of the people to whom she genetically belongs. She meets someone else who has it and starts to learn to control it instead of it controlling her. Her teacher helps her embrace it as something that is meant to allow her to help and defend others who aren’t as strong.

[Norah Case · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer—I had the privilege of receiving an ARC copy of this book as a part of the publisher’s street team, but was not required to leave a review—all reactions and opinions are my own.

This book was one of my favorite reads so far this summer! Winter’s Chill picks up right where Winter’s Maiden leaves off, which I was thrilled about! The end of Winter’s Maiden left me with so many questions and I was thankful that many were answered right away. In this book, Kaeden quickly became my favorite character—I loved watching him wrestle with his identity as Truthsayer and striving to do what the Word called him to do even in the face of opposition from his countrymen. I found him so encouraging—we need more characters like this! I loved Brighid’s progression in this story as well; she made a big jump from who she was in Winter’s Maiden, but I loved watching her grow into that change in her time with the with the Bear Clan (and the twist that came along with that!). The pacing was also fast, which I appreciated—sometimes the middle book in a series can feel like a filler, but this certainly wasn’t the case with Winter’s Chill.

I can sense that things are building for an epic finale. So excited to see how this series continues!

[Hannah Currie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ooooh, the intrigue!

I finished this book a couple of weeks ago but have sat on the review because, honestly? I wasn't quite sure what to say about it. In some ways, it's really slow and it feels like not a lot happens in the book. Which would normally have me giving up on the story, except that the tension and intrigue and things building 'behind the scenes' of what was happening on the page has me captivated. I'm well and truly invested in this trilogy now, even through the slow parts. 

I enjoyed reading Winter's Chill, and will read it again, but I think I'll definitely appreciate it more once I can read the series as a whole. There's clearly something big coming, and this book feels more like a stepping stone to that than a full story in itself. Which is totally fine! Every character needs their journey and time to grow. But yeah, not quite the epic 'moment' I was expecting. Still, four stars, because brilliant writing, great world-building, and I absolutely have to keep reading the rest of the series. Cannot wait!

Many thanks to the author and publisher for an early copy of this book.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars.

Winter’s Chill picks up right where Winter's Maiden left off. We continue following Brighid and Kaeden, with occasional secondary perspectives thrown in. Busse takes us to the White City in the southlands, and back to Bear Clan territory in the north. I loved learning more about the Eldaran through Kaeden’s perspective. But even more, I loved exploring the lore and power of the Bear Clan alongside Brighid. While not as tense and fast-paced as its predecessor, Winter’s Chill is just as compelling. The expansion of the world and the growth of the characters made for an engaging reading experience.

“The Word loved mankind enough to battle for their souls. Why would He withhold His song from them?”

There’s not much I can say about the plot that wouldn’t spoil the first installment. But what I can discuss are the themes. I like how this series grapples with big questions about God, questions regarding His ultimate goodness, why He allows evil when He could stop it in an instant, and why He respects our free will. There was also a lot of grappling with identity and purpose and the weight of leadership, both internally and externally. Family is also of great importance. We see families broken and restored, and characters being either bolstered by their upbringings or undercut by them.

“But they were also not privy to all the times the Word called each person. To every human. Through song and silence. Through the constant voice holding the world together. In the rain and the wind and the sound of laughter. If one was quiet long enough, once could hear the Word.”

As mentioned above, I really loved watching the main characters grow. Brighid and Kaeden are both deep and sympathetic and good. They’re easy characters to root for, and they are both developing beautifully and believably. Just a touch of slowburn romance makes its way into the story, coupled with a light sense of fated soulmates. And then there’s the extended cast. I love Treyvar, the quiet scholar who is more than he appears, and who has become such a faithful friend to Kaeden. I also grew to love the members of the Bear Clan. And then there’s the introduction of Bjornfrost the bear. I love a good animal companion, and Bjornfrost has joined those ranks.

“Every Nordic fights for Nordica. Therefore, every Nordic has a voice. Even the classless. Today, I speak for them.”

Winter’s Chill was a wonderful continuation of the Nordic Wars series. It was very different from its predecessor in some ways; it’s more contemplative, but it was still a lovely complement to that introductory novel. And there is still action, though the scenes are less frequent. While this didn't necessarily end on a cliffhanger, it did end with a world still at war and a lot left unresolved. I'm sad that I have to wait a year to see how the story ends, but I'm thankful that Busse has a time-proven track record for delivering on her promises.

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent continuation of the story which began in Winter’s Maiden. Brighid discovers her heritage and long-hidden secrets as Kaeden has to navigate a world which is becoming increasingly hostile after the death of his mentor.

There’s hints of Tolkien in this story, and the ancient Norse mythic cultural mileau which in all inspired him.

Thanks to Celebrate Lit for accepting my application for this Blog Tour. This didn't influence my opinions which are freely given and entirely my own.

[Ashlea Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up too late in order to finish it...

I really enjoyed this continuation of The Nordic Wars series. I liked getting to spend more time with Kaeden's character in this book. He went from a loner who recoiled from human touch to making friends and teaching them how to grapple.

Meanwhile, Brighid tries to survive making her way back to Nordica to pass along information about their "benefactors" in the war. She learns more about her birth family and seems to gain confidence in her place in the world.

I look forward to getting to know these characters more in the third book.

[A.M. Reynwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes sequels can be slow and boring, yet while this book has a different pace than the war-torn action of book 1, it is definitely NOT boring. This slow-burn romance kicks it up a notch with magical bonds, discovered identities + long lost family, prison breaks, animal companions, and a showdown of ancient powers for the ages. Politics, powers, and personalities clash in this continuation that does not disappoint as our beloved characters navigate a war of not only peoples, but ideals.

[MJSH · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Only people who craved power saw the world that way and couldn’t imagine that sometimes leading was best done by serving.”

This is a series that really needs to be read in order. This second installment picks up right where the first book left off. I needed to re-read the last few chapters of the first book to re-orient myself in this fantastic world of mythical beings, faith, war and self-discovery. I loved watching Kaeden and Brighid grow emotionally and spiritually. I really enjoyed getting to know Gurmund better and understood halfway into the story why his presence was so important to the plot. Armand did not have as strong of a voice in this book and Viessa added an interesting twist to the ending of the story. This book only had two memorable battles - one at the beginning and one at the end. Most of the book took place during a terribly cold and snowy winter with both armies resting and training. Even without the action, there were plot twists galore to keep the plot moving. I felt like this book - possibly the second in a trilogy - served to answer burning questions for the readers and to allow Brighid and Kaeden to discover themselves and each other. Self-sacrifice, noble grace, and perseverance marked these unforgettable main characters.

If you enjoy epic fantasy, you will love this book and series. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Enclave Publishing and Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Caedon Hull · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5.

[Beilby_Book_Nook Bekki Beilby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this second book in the Nordic War Series just as much as the first book! The author splits the story between Brighid and Kaeden as they are now separated with Brighid in the North and Kaeden in the south. I highly recommend listing to a Nordic instrumental playlist while reading this series!

Brighid survives her trek North after Kaeden saves her life. Just when Brighid thinks she isn’t going to make it, a large majestic creature carries her to The Bear Clan. I loved getting to know this clan and their people. They are steadfast and honourable while welcoming the clanless into their people as well. Brighid’s character growth is beautiful to watch, especially the hope she has by being accepted and her new connection with the Word.

Kaeden begins his journey to understanding his new role as Truthsayer by researching the Eldaran people while in the White City. I appreciated this look into the Eldaran people and it made me want to read Morgan L. Busse’s prior series, “Follower of the Word”, to know even more as that series is all about the Eldarans. Kaeden prepares for what the Word has in store for him next as he feels drawn to the North and to Brighid.

This book had a great combination of developing the story, but also giving many twists and turns to keep me wanting to know more. Themes of family and found family, honour, justice, perseverance, and hope leave the reader ready to find out how the Word will bring light and peace for the Nordic people.

I received a complimentary copy from Enclave Publishing and Morgan L. Busse. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Deena Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winter’s Chill picks up right after the closing events in Winter’s Maiden. Brighid is alone, trying to get back to her people to warn them of an unthinkable danger.

But the elements and terrain fight against her every step of the way. Until an unexpected ally appears and saves her life. Will this clanless young woman find a place to belong? Can she save her people before it’s too late?

Kaeden has now been given the mantle of the Truthsayer, a role previously held by his beloved mentor and friend. He’s not sure why he was chosen by The Word to be his spokesperson. Will he be able to shoulder the burden of being the chosen one? Can he let go of his grief over his loss and help stop the war?

Busse has created a complete backdrop of gorgeous scenery and lush description that enhances the story. When Brighid came very close to freezing to death I had chills.

Her main characters are amazing and relatable and her background characters really stand out. This is some of the finest high fantasy I’ve had the privilege of reading.

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommended!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what an amazing book! This is book 2 of 3 in Morgan L. Busse's "The Nordic Wars" series and it's fantastic. If you liked Winter's Maiden you'll really enjoy this one as it continues the stories of Brighid and Kaeden who we meet in the first book. The reader learns more about these unique beings in the cold of winter. There is an amazing cast of characters that surround them along with danger and intrigue that follow them.

I like the direction the story is going in as they use "The Word" to guide them to defeat the darkness trying to take over their lands. It was great to learn more about the Bear clan, Kaeden and his race of beings and see character growth in Brighid and Kaeden as they wait out the winter when battles do not take place.

There are interesting new characters introduced in this installment that enhance the story. There are strong faith elements that add an allegory to Christian faith that I really liked to read about. This book is definitely not as violent as the first book but it also goes along with the characters resting and waiting out the winter - though they both face challenges.

I look forward to the next book because this one definitely leaves the reader on a bit of a cliffhanger. I wish I could start reading it tomorrow because I can't wait to see what happens with Brighid and Kaeden.

Thank you to Enclave Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Lana Spelliscy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winter's Chill continues the extraordinary journey of Brighid and Kaeden. Morgan Busse's character development is fabulous. They both continue on the journey the Word has set them on, growing with each step they take, fast or slow. The characters feel real, like I could meet them on the street. This second book in the series just builds on what they have already learned and continues the exploration into who they are and why they are where they are. They flounder and struggle, then trust and excel. I couldn't wait to learn the next step, spend some more time around the fire with them.
This is a story about sacrifice, strength, learning, and relying on the Word. There are unexpected twists and turns that always left me guessing what was going to happen next. The story flies from battle, to survival, with small victories along the way. Built around 2 heroes struggling to know who they are and what the Word is asking of them. Each victory is hard earned and the challenges feel so real. It made me look at the challenges in my own life and how I deal with them. Am I ready to listen to the Word and follow what I hear? It is always so exciting when a fictional book makes me take a look at my real life.
Morgan Busse is a master storyteller, with such a gift for fantasy. The world created in this book (and series) comes to life with detailed settings, like a movie playing in the readers' head. I could feel the cold of the snow even though it is the middle of a hot summer. I was submerged from start to finish, wishing there were just a few more chapters to keep the story going. I am so excited for the next book in this series. There are so many questions to answer and battles left to fight! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Nay Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where do I begin?! This was everything to me. Giving it a solid 4.5 star rating. I thoroughly enjoyed how this ended, and I am looking forward to seeing how the series concludes.

Brighid is on her journey to safety among the Nordic people, not realizing the change it will cause for herself. Kaeden is amongst his own, dealing with hostility and differences.

I enjoyed both characters so much. Their connection and how the Word is bringing them together for the sake of all people is amazing. I love how easy it is to sink into this story following Winter's Maiden. It is such an easy read with memorable characters, lots of action, and parts that make you think about your own faith and walk.

I need the next book now!!!

[BookishKelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! A great sequel to Winter's Maiden. Everything that I was hoping for was confirmed. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

[Lizzy Hite · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so incredibly good, and I absolutely cannot wait for book three!! (My favorites had better be safe at the end…I won’t be okay if not, lol.)


~~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~

[Marie Schuh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burn with very detailed descriptions, but by the end I was racing through it and my heart was racing too! The details make it so that you can almost envision everything happening, so enjoy them! Can’t wait for #3!!!

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winter’s Chill warmed my heart to the core and left me ready for more! The story picks up right where Winter’s Maiden left off and Brighid is in a new place. Not just physically, but mentally and metaphorically as well. She has changed and she is ready to stand up for her peoples’ justice, no matter the cost. Kaeden is learning to stand tall in his new role but remains humble and open to the Word showing him and teaching him his role and purpose. I love the new friendships they each forge along the way as truths are unveiled and lines are brought into clarity. The bond between Brighid and Kaeden is inexplicably strong and I love how their paths, while distinctly separate, remain woven together. The growth in both main characters is inspiring and I cannot wait to see what they do in the third book. Brighid’s time with the Bear Clan is especially interesting and I loved watching her learn so many new things about herself and those around her. The levels of truth embedded in all aspects of the story make it inspirational while challenging and encouraging the reader.
I received a complimentary copy from the author, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

[Julia Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book. I was not required to leave a review.

All thoughts and opinions are my own.

After the slow start of the first book, I almost hesitated to pick this one up. I told myself the first book was set up for the rest and that proved to be the case.

This book was faster paced than the first and in my opinion, better. It picked up right where the last picked up.

I enjoyed delving not only into Brighid and Kaeden and who they were as individuals, but also into their cultures and roles.

Also rideable bears!! My gosh. Is this a trope, because it totally needs to be!! Excuse me, but i am obsessed.

Okay. Sidetracked.....

I thought the book wrapped up nicely but man. I need more! This one seemed so short!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book of a trilogy is always tricky because you know you will probably be left with a cliff hanger. I did really enjoy this part of the story and I am eager to see what happens next! Brighid really grows as a person in this one. It was delightful to see her meet new people (no spoilers!) and for Kaeden to grow in his new role. The book goes back and forth between the two and I was much more invested in what was happening with Brighid. There also seemed to be a little more on the romance side of things which I thought was fun. There are some secondary characters that show up that I wasn't expecting and they added a lot to the plot. Overall I am really enjoying this series and I highly recommend!

Four Stars.







"I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review."

[Rachael Ritchey · Rating 5 out of 5]

ahhh!! So good. Winter's Chill picked up right where we left off in Winter's Maiden and built on the complex world of Nordica and the lands of the South.

I love how Busse weaves the bond between Brighid and Kaeden into this book in simple but unexpected ways, the sweet reveals, the hints at complications, the magic of the Eldaran's. Treyvar is one of my favorite characters, and I'm excited and curious to see how his story turns out.

I knew when I started reading this that there would be a third book, so when I got closer to the end, I seemed to slow down. I didn't want the story to end! And now I have to wait for the finale. Oh, and that last third of this book cooks!

Thank you to the author and publisher for the chance to read Winter's Chill early. This review is all my own. I can't wait to add this to my bookshelf. I recommend this series to adults and older teens who enjoy Viking-inspired, noblebright fantasy, light on the sweet romance, and well balanced with a great cast of characters, interesting magic system, action and adventure.

[Becca Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter’s Chill is another solid fantasy by Morgan L. Busse and a strong sequel to Winter’s Maiden. There were many things I genuinely enjoyed about this book.

First and foremost, seeing how Brighid has grown as a character. Her story line interested me the most in this book, and her determination to warn her people about the Shadonae, no matter the cost, was encouraging. Even when it got difficult–seemingly impossible–she refused to give up. As her story continued to unfold and truths from her past were revealed, I needed to know more.

We also get to follow Kaeden as he grapples with his new power and role, as well as the death of his close friend and mentor. I do love Kaeden–his ideals, his personality, and his desire to serve the Word in everything that he does. I would honestly love to meet this character in person and befriend him. He carries a quiet peace, and his presence is like a balm. However, his story line was quite slow at times, and I found myself wanting more from him and his plot line.

But outside of the main characters, there were other aspects that left a lasting impression on me. First of all, the concept of the Word and how the author weaves in Christianity and the Bible. I think it is incredibly creative, but also made me reflect on my own faith. There was also the aspect of war–when in war, how we view the other side as “inhumane”, but oftentimes, the other side is not much different than us and honestly, wants and desires similar things. I believe this is incredibly applicable today in many different areas, and something I genuinely appreciated reading in this book.

While there were many things I liked, there were a couple small details that could have really elevated this story. Speeding up Kaeden’s story a little for one. But also, the main villain is not revealed until much too late and then the ending is somewhat rushed. There could have been so much more depth to the story if there could have been more with that.

Overall, though, I would highly recommend this series. With this book, we get to see and know the characters a lot more. Again, there were some parts that were slow that caused the ending to seem a bit rushed. However, that does not take away from the other wonderful parts to this story.

I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.