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The Poisoned Kingdoms #2
Winter's Power
A queen's forbidden magic. A captain's impossible choice. A realm on the brink of destruction.
Laena's winter magic is killing her from the inside out, but it may be the only thing standing between her people and total annihilation. When her sister's thirst for power unleashes ancient enemies back into the world, Laena must choose between a political marriage that could save her kingdom and the love that could destroy it.
Captain Callum Farrow has spent his life hunting magic users—until he falls for one. Torn between duty and desire, he'll risk everything to protect the woman whose power both terrifies and captivates him. But as dark forces gather and the barrier between worlds crumbles, even their love might not be enough to save them.
With the fate of the realm hanging in the balance, Laena and Callum must learn that the greatest magic isn't found in spells or swords—it's found in the courage to fight for what you believe in, even when the cost is everything you hold dear.
A sweeping fantasy romance of sacrifice, redemption, and the transformative power of love.
This book completes Laena and Callum’s love story – but there are more stories to come in the Poisoned Kingdoms series!
Laena's winter magic is killing her from the inside out, but it may be the only thing standing between her people and total annihilation. When her sister's thirst for power unleashes ancient enemies back into the world, Laena must choose between a political marriage that could save her kingdom and the love that could destroy it.
Captain Callum Farrow has spent his life hunting magic users—until he falls for one. Torn between duty and desire, he'll risk everything to protect the woman whose power both terrifies and captivates him. But as dark forces gather and the barrier between worlds crumbles, even their love might not be enough to save them.
With the fate of the realm hanging in the balance, Laena and Callum must learn that the greatest magic isn't found in spells or swords—it's found in the courage to fight for what you believe in, even when the cost is everything you hold dear.
A sweeping fantasy romance of sacrifice, redemption, and the transformative power of love.
This book completes Laena and Callum’s love story – but there are more stories to come in the Poisoned Kingdoms series!
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 13, 2025
First of all, the summary of book 1 at the beginning of book 2 is a big yes !
I honestly wondered what direction this second half would take, and I'm glad I pushed because I was pleasantly surprised by the new characters that appeared ! I really liked the first book, and even though I usually prefer 1st books in series, I still very much enjoyed this one. I want Adrian to shine more, I want to see him in his own book because I just adored his character. Witty, smart, funny but a good leader that can be serious when needed. I can't say much without spoiling it, but I'm just gonna say, I recommend this duology !
I honestly wondered what direction this second half would take, and I'm glad I pushed because I was pleasantly surprised by the new characters that appeared ! I really liked the first book, and even though I usually prefer 1st books in series, I still very much enjoyed this one. I want Adrian to shine more, I want to see him in his own book because I just adored his character. Witty, smart, funny but a good leader that can be serious when needed. I can't say much without spoiling it, but I'm just gonna say, I recommend this duology !
February 7, 2026
Book 1 destroyed me. Book 2 did it again, but in a "that was such a wonderful ending and why does it have to be over" kind of way.
I love all of these characters so much. They're so complex and well written, and everyone needs their own book.
Now I'm off to the Miragelands in book 3.
I love all of these characters so much. They're so complex and well written, and everyone needs their own book.
Now I'm off to the Miragelands in book 3.
September 30, 2025
In Book 2, the details and intricacies of the world are amped up, as is the spice! I found this book to flow at a much faster pace, so you need to pay close attention to the little details that are shared.
I still think Brin is the cutest little sidekick and wish we'd seen more of her in this book. I also wish we got to know more of the story of the Ruthless King, but for a short read, I think there was a ton of detail as is packed into it.
I loved Laena's growth in this book! Her confidence and truthfulness to herself shined. I'm also glad Kat finally came around, and we saw that sisterly relationship end on a different note.
Overall, it is a fantastic short fantasy read that builds upon Book 1 very well, keeping a reader entertained, immersed in the magical world, and hanging on to Callum and Laena's beautiful relationship.
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity!
I still think Brin is the cutest little sidekick and wish we'd seen more of her in this book. I also wish we got to know more of the story of the Ruthless King, but for a short read, I think there was a ton of detail as is packed into it.
I loved Laena's growth in this book! Her confidence and truthfulness to herself shined. I'm also glad Kat finally came around, and we saw that sisterly relationship end on a different note.
Overall, it is a fantastic short fantasy read that builds upon Book 1 very well, keeping a reader entertained, immersed in the magical world, and hanging on to Callum and Laena's beautiful relationship.
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity!
September 30, 2025
Wow... Just wow... This book was so good, I didn't want to put it down! I absolutely loved everything about this book, and I'm just amazed at how OUTSTANDING this gem was! I love how Laena & Callum's relationship grows throughout this book, and how Katrina kinda sorta redeemed herself at the end. I cannot wait until the next book publishes on my BIRTHDAY next year! Bring it on and keep up the amazing work, Amelia! So much love and support, sweet friend! 💖💖
September 24, 2025
Winter’s Power is a great end to Amelia’s Poisoned Kingdom duet. It picks up right after book one, with Laena struggling with ghosts and her magic after the battle with Katrina. To find a cure, she and Callum travel to the forbidden land of Silerith bringing them close again and stirring up unresolved feelings.
Their journey reveals hidden truths about the mages, Callum’s past, and the kingdom itself. We meet new characters and even get a glimpse into the villain’s mind.
The romance grows deeper, the banter is fun, and the story moves quickly. Some answers come a bit too easily, but it’s still a fast, enjoyable read with a satisfying ending. I loved how Laena and Callum’s relationship grew, and how the story balanced adventure, emotion, and magic.
If you enjoyed book one, this is a must-read. I’m excited to see which character the next book will follow!
Their journey reveals hidden truths about the mages, Callum’s past, and the kingdom itself. We meet new characters and even get a glimpse into the villain’s mind.
The romance grows deeper, the banter is fun, and the story moves quickly. Some answers come a bit too easily, but it’s still a fast, enjoyable read with a satisfying ending. I loved how Laena and Callum’s relationship grew, and how the story balanced adventure, emotion, and magic.
If you enjoyed book one, this is a must-read. I’m excited to see which character the next book will follow!
September 4, 2025
✨Winter’s Power✨
Author: Amelia Macleod
Release: September 24, 2025
A precious conclusion to Amelia’s Poisoned Kingdom duet, we find ourselves back in Aglye with our reluctant royal, Laena, and grumpy bodyguard, Callum, as they try to navigate that cliffhanger that had me throwing my kindle at the end of book one.
When ghosts and a debilitating illness cripple Laena’s big day, she and Callum are once again placed in forced proximity together to travel to the unknown lands of Silerith for help. However, everything about Silerith is everything that is declared evil and banned within their kingdoms. Not to mention the tension is high between our bodyguard and princess as forbidden and bitter feelings bubble back up to the surface.
The trip takes us through the forest of Aglye where Laena, Callum, and their crew begin to gather answers that have been deeply hidden for years. We get to know more about Callum and his history as well as that of the ever-feared mages. We meet wonderful characters that are lovable, hilarious, and mysterious along with a POV from our villain in book one!
While it felt like some of the answers came a little too easy, this story is still a fun and quick read that will give you smiles and giggles with the banter and the romance. The spice amps up and I loved how Laena handled receiving hard information while also watching the MMC and FMC’s relationship grow beyond duty and kingdoms.
Tropes you may find in WP are forbidden love, bodyguard, hidden identities, found family, banter, medium spice, unique magics, cute glowy lizard pet, comfort, tension and yearning, and a HEA.
Amelia, thank you so much for connecting with me and allowing me to be an arc reader for your sweet duet.
Author: Amelia Macleod
Release: September 24, 2025
A precious conclusion to Amelia’s Poisoned Kingdom duet, we find ourselves back in Aglye with our reluctant royal, Laena, and grumpy bodyguard, Callum, as they try to navigate that cliffhanger that had me throwing my kindle at the end of book one.
When ghosts and a debilitating illness cripple Laena’s big day, she and Callum are once again placed in forced proximity together to travel to the unknown lands of Silerith for help. However, everything about Silerith is everything that is declared evil and banned within their kingdoms. Not to mention the tension is high between our bodyguard and princess as forbidden and bitter feelings bubble back up to the surface.
The trip takes us through the forest of Aglye where Laena, Callum, and their crew begin to gather answers that have been deeply hidden for years. We get to know more about Callum and his history as well as that of the ever-feared mages. We meet wonderful characters that are lovable, hilarious, and mysterious along with a POV from our villain in book one!
While it felt like some of the answers came a little too easy, this story is still a fun and quick read that will give you smiles and giggles with the banter and the romance. The spice amps up and I loved how Laena handled receiving hard information while also watching the MMC and FMC’s relationship grow beyond duty and kingdoms.
Tropes you may find in WP are forbidden love, bodyguard, hidden identities, found family, banter, medium spice, unique magics, cute glowy lizard pet, comfort, tension and yearning, and a HEA.
Amelia, thank you so much for connecting with me and allowing me to be an arc reader for your sweet duet.
September 23, 2025
This book had me hooked from page 1. I loved book 1 and this book picks up right where it left off. I loved the adventure and all the new characters we meet and characters from book 1 we get to see again.
Callum and Laena where do I start with them? I felt for Callum throughout most of this book because the woman he loved was planning to marry another. Laena was dealing with her messed up magic and thought she knew the solution. I loved where their story went and the ending made me happy.
I really liked almost all the characters we met besides the obvious ones who I’m not mentioning because you’ll have to read to find out who they are. I was happy a few characters that I wanted to hate made some good choices and I was able to like them again.
I do kinda wish we got a tiny bit more just 1 more chapter at the end because while it felt complete I felt like we needed to finish it like it started because the characters deserved it. I do hope we get to see something like it in one of the other books in the series but since this is the end of Callum and Laena’s story I’m not sure it will happen but I can hope.
Overall I loved this book and can’t wait to see which character the next book will focus on! I read this book as an arc.
Callum and Laena where do I start with them? I felt for Callum throughout most of this book because the woman he loved was planning to marry another. Laena was dealing with her messed up magic and thought she knew the solution. I loved where their story went and the ending made me happy.
I really liked almost all the characters we met besides the obvious ones who I’m not mentioning because you’ll have to read to find out who they are. I was happy a few characters that I wanted to hate made some good choices and I was able to like them again.
I do kinda wish we got a tiny bit more just 1 more chapter at the end because while it felt complete I felt like we needed to finish it like it started because the characters deserved it. I do hope we get to see something like it in one of the other books in the series but since this is the end of Callum and Laena’s story I’m not sure it will happen but I can hope.
Overall I loved this book and can’t wait to see which character the next book will focus on! I read this book as an arc.
October 4, 2025
Rating: 4/5⭐️
I want to start this review by showing my great appreciation to Amelia for adding a Winter’s Fate sum up at the very beginning to bring us back into this work and to what has happened so far! As someone that reads quite a lot, sometimes remembering previous plot details can be interesting and I think more authors should follow Amelia’s lead and add a “previously on”!
I must confess I really really really like the forbidden romance element in this duology, it just brings the tension between characters to a new level and Amelia did it so well together with the yearning! We pick up pretty must straight after book 1 in terms of plot line and I found that all questions and all the different subplots/characters came together in the end quite nicely.
Just like in Winte’s Fate, Amelia’s writing is very good and the pacing of the story will make you want to just keep reading it and finish the book rather quickly! I do recommend this duology for all fans of fantasy, quests, forbidden and dangerous magic and forbidden romance!
Many thanks to Amelia for the early ebook! All opinions are my own
I want to start this review by showing my great appreciation to Amelia for adding a Winter’s Fate sum up at the very beginning to bring us back into this work and to what has happened so far! As someone that reads quite a lot, sometimes remembering previous plot details can be interesting and I think more authors should follow Amelia’s lead and add a “previously on”!
I must confess I really really really like the forbidden romance element in this duology, it just brings the tension between characters to a new level and Amelia did it so well together with the yearning! We pick up pretty must straight after book 1 in terms of plot line and I found that all questions and all the different subplots/characters came together in the end quite nicely.
Just like in Winte’s Fate, Amelia’s writing is very good and the pacing of the story will make you want to just keep reading it and finish the book rather quickly! I do recommend this duology for all fans of fantasy, quests, forbidden and dangerous magic and forbidden romance!
Many thanks to Amelia for the early ebook! All opinions are my own
August 31, 2025
🎉eARC review!🎉
Title: Winter's Power (The Poisoned Kingdoms Series book 2)
Author: @ameliamacleodauthor
Genre: Romantasy
Publication Date: September 24, 2025
Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 4/5 🌶
I was more than excited to continue Callum and Laena's journey and I was not disappointed! The yearning and angst was delicious and heart-breaking! The action and adventure had me gripping my Kindle tight! I loved the found family vibes and found myself wishing for a community in the forest! I loved Princess Emilia, and her curiosity of all things was refreshing! I loved Gretchen and her bow, and Adrian! I loved Adrian and hope he gets his story ❤️
I wanted to dislike Hawk, but as the story progressed, I found that he was a likeable character who made some bad decisions, and I hope he finds his HEA. I'm very curious about King Evren and have my theories about him 🤔 😏
The mage magic was unique and easy to follow and I'm so excited to continue this journey! I highly recommend this book, series, and author!
Thank you, Amelia MacCleod for the eARC!
Title: Winter's Power (The Poisoned Kingdoms Series book 2)
Author: @ameliamacleodauthor
Genre: Romantasy
Publication Date: September 24, 2025
Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 4/5 🌶
I was more than excited to continue Callum and Laena's journey and I was not disappointed! The yearning and angst was delicious and heart-breaking! The action and adventure had me gripping my Kindle tight! I loved the found family vibes and found myself wishing for a community in the forest! I loved Princess Emilia, and her curiosity of all things was refreshing! I loved Gretchen and her bow, and Adrian! I loved Adrian and hope he gets his story ❤️
I wanted to dislike Hawk, but as the story progressed, I found that he was a likeable character who made some bad decisions, and I hope he finds his HEA. I'm very curious about King Evren and have my theories about him 🤔 😏
The mage magic was unique and easy to follow and I'm so excited to continue this journey! I highly recommend this book, series, and author!
Thank you, Amelia MacCleod for the eARC!
September 3, 2025
I am obsessed!!! OMG! I loved it. I loved the resolution of how the powers work, of how to solve the problems, of the love story. all of it! and yet I want more. I want to know what happens with Hawk, Adrian and Evren, even Thaddeus. I do not want to leave the poison kingdom. I have questions. is it still poisoned? are there threats from the wilds? are we really done with the mages?!?! ahhhhh!!!
I am seriously in love with the resolution between Laena and Callum. I loved it and its an easy duet to read. I love how quickly the world comes alive without needing to spend chapters understanding everything. Also, I got ewok vibes when it came to the grove .... Am I off base with that thought?
Go read Winters Fate and then come read Winters Power!
I am seriously in love with the resolution between Laena and Callum. I loved it and its an easy duet to read. I love how quickly the world comes alive without needing to spend chapters understanding everything. Also, I got ewok vibes when it came to the grove .... Am I off base with that thought?
Go read Winters Fate and then come read Winters Power!
October 22, 2025
This book picks up where book one left off and dives straight back into the action. There is continuation of the world building which expands on the politics and magic from book one in a way that is interesting, in-depth but not too cumbersome. The plot is well paced, there are a range of interesting new characters introduced, the battle scenes are gripping and tense, the relationship between Laena and Callum reaches full burn and the story of their relationship is brought to a satisfying conclusion while leaving the door open to continue the story within the Poisoned Kingdoms universe with new couples. Amelia's writing style is everything I love about romantasy and by the end of the first page I was blissfully settled in my romantasy happy place.
September 22, 2025
I received an ARC of Winter's Power from the author.
This one follows almost immediately after the first book, with Laena getting ready to marry King Hawk. However, something happened in the battle with Katrina, and Laena now sees ghosts and her magic is starting to negatively affect her.
Callum and Laena are tasked to go into Silerith to find a cure for her, and in the meantime try to come to terms with their unresolved feelings.
Winter's Power was a great ending to their story. I know there will be more books in the series that delve into the others and I'm hoping to find out more about what happens in the Miragelands and Evren.
This one follows almost immediately after the first book, with Laena getting ready to marry King Hawk. However, something happened in the battle with Katrina, and Laena now sees ghosts and her magic is starting to negatively affect her.
Callum and Laena are tasked to go into Silerith to find a cure for her, and in the meantime try to come to terms with their unresolved feelings.
Winter's Power was a great ending to their story. I know there will be more books in the series that delve into the others and I'm hoping to find out more about what happens in the Miragelands and Evren.
September 9, 2025
Winter's Power
This was a BEAUTIFULLY written book (duology cause both were amazing) and I loved the twists and turns the unexpected but mostly the depth of feeling in Macleod's books. The way she portrays her characters is not just Ive read about Laena,Katrina,Callum, and Hawk but that I can feel their feelings I can see through their eyes . Laena's story is absolutely captivating and I look forward to reading more of Amelia Macleod's books in the future!
*I received a free ebook copy of this book all opinions and reviews are my own!*
This was a BEAUTIFULLY written book (duology cause both were amazing) and I loved the twists and turns the unexpected but mostly the depth of feeling in Macleod's books. The way she portrays her characters is not just Ive read about Laena,Katrina,Callum, and Hawk but that I can feel their feelings I can see through their eyes . Laena's story is absolutely captivating and I look forward to reading more of Amelia Macleod's books in the future!
*I received a free ebook copy of this book all opinions and reviews are my own!*
September 24, 2025
An enjoyable follow up to book 1. There was a lot packed in to this story and lots of new information weaved into the plot. The world building was extended from Winter’s Fate and I enjoyed reading about the new locations and how they linked into the story. I also enjoyed the introduction of the new characters and learning more about the magic system.
This was a really fitting conclusion to Callum and Laena’s story.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity of reading an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and voluntarily/ honestly given.
This was a really fitting conclusion to Callum and Laena’s story.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity of reading an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and voluntarily/ honestly given.
September 23, 2025
This book picks up just a couple weeks after the first book and oh did I love it! I was hooked all over again and so excited to be back with Callum and Laena. The ending of the first book left me completely shocked and I wa so happy to continue their journey. I really enjoyed learning more about the magic in this world and meeting new characters. Such an amazing continuation of the story, I couldn’t put it down!
September 24, 2025
I absolutely devoured Winter's Fate and couldn't wait to get my hands on Winter's Power. Literally. I reached out, and Amelia was kind enough to send me an ARC (hey, sometimes it pays to be in the author business 🙃). It's a fantastic sequel. All things I loved about the first book-the romantic tension, whimsical settings, and kingdoms teetering on the edge of destruction-were all there and dialed up to eleven. Highly recommend!
September 9, 2025
This was a great follow up to the first book in the series Winters Fate. We got closure with Laena and Callum’s relationship but also some new interesting characters were introduced, Adrian, Felix and King Evren Avery. I’m hoping we get more of these characters in the next book.
October 25, 2025
3.75 rounding up a very well done duology!!!
December 14, 2025
This is a wonderful book 2 continuing the adventurous tale from book 1. It has everything from romance to magic and I can't wait to continue the story!
September 25, 2025
Book two of The Poisoned Kingdoms series by Amelia MacLeod is incredibly fantastic. Once again I was hooked from the first page and just kept turning the pages to see what happened next. There is action, adventure, magic, romance, and plenty of twists and turns. The main characters Laena and Callum have a vivid chemistry that is enjoyable to watch grow. I loved the banter with Adrian. Amelia brilliantly weaves and blends her world building beautifully and magically throughout the story completely captivating the reader. I absolutely enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one! Highly recommended!
October 9, 2025
I was so ready for this book! Winter's Fate had me hooked, and Winter's Power reeled me in! The world building, magic, love, and clever banter, was on par. Everything was wrapped up in a nice bow, but I want more. I need to know what happens with everyone else, and what's going to happen in the Miragelands.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews