Fantasy readers constantly look for immersive worlds built on authentic mythology. Finding a sequel that deepens the original lore without losing momentum often proves difficult. Readers want complex characters who face real consequences within a well-researched magical setting.
Author Michaela Riley meets this demand with her new release, Cauldron of Dagda: The Witch’s Rebirth Part 2. We spoke with Riley to discuss her latest book, her approach to Celtic mythology, and how she develops her characters over a series.
Q: Cauldron of Dagda picks up after the events of the first book. What specific challenges did you face when writing a direct sequel?
Michaela Riley: Initially, I wasn’t sure whether I was going to write a sequel. I had completed the research, but I had not fully committed to writing the entire series. I returned to my outlines and timelines to make sure this was the direction I wanted the story to take. The most challenging part was continuing Merona’s journey without revealing any spoilers for Part III, Spear of Lugh.
Q: Celtic mythology plays a massive role in your storytelling. How do you balance historical research with modern fantasy elements?
Michaela Riley: The historical research always comes first. I create timelines and add the real historical figures and events. Then I weave in fantasy elements based on the powers and attributes associated with each deity.
In Cauldron of Dagda, I wanted to explore the sacred gifts of the Tuatha Dé Danann and focus on Celtic mythology instead of the more familiar traditions of Norse mythology. Because much of Gaul remained pagan before Clovis I converted to Christianity, the period provided a strong historical foundation for the story.
The fantasy elements were more difficult to write because they depended entirely on creativity. It took time for me to decide what trials my fictional characters would face and how those challenges would shape the series.
Q: The protagonist faces intense personal and magical trials in this second part. How did her character arc evolve during your writing process?
Michaela Riley: Merona begins the series as a young woman learning about her destiny without any memory of her past lives or a true understanding of her strengths and weaknesses. She is initially uncertain, but she is always willing to accept the fate given to her by the gods and follow the path placed before her.
In Book Two, Cauldron of Dagda, Merona pushes herself to her limits to save mankind. She is no longer the frightened young woman she once was. She has become a force to be reckoned with.
Merona no longer asks permission. She embraces each challenge and continues fighting even when she believes she has nothing left to give. She is unstoppable.
Q: Readers often point out your detailed world-building. What is your method for creating a magic system that feels both grounded and expansive?
Michaela Riley: This takes an enormous amount of time. Before I begin writing, I research ancient celestial events, geography, architecture, religious practices, and the political realities of the period. I keep extensive notes, maps, character histories, and timelines so I can keep everything organized and connected.
Each book receives its own detailed outline, timeline, maps, and character profiles before I begin writing the story. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of the process for me. I love sitting back and imagining what a place might have looked like, smelled like, and felt like during the fifth and sixth centuries.
That historical framework allows the magical elements to feel as though they genuinely belong within Merona’s world.
Q: Writing a series requires long-term planning. How much of this book did you outline before you finished the first installment?
Michaela Riley: Initially, there was only going to be one book. However, I had researched the entire Merovingian dynasty, and once Labyrinth of Shadows was finished, I realized there was much more of Merona’s story left to tell.
That realization led to Cauldron of Dagda, followed by Spear of Lugh and now The Gambit of Queens. I currently plan to write a total of eight books in The Witch’s Rebirth series.
The Gambit of Queens will be released on Samhain 2026. Readers can visit thewitchsrebirth.com to explore the complete timeline, interactive maps, characters, and worlds connected to Merona’s story.
Q: What is the main feeling you want readers to take away after they finish the final chapter of this sequel?
Michaela Riley: First, I hope readers come away with a better understanding of the Merovingians and the world in which they lived. More importantly, I want them to recognize that the choices we make can affect many lives.
Every small act of kindness can change the outcome for people we may never meet. It creates a ripple effect across generations. Countless people throughout history have sacrificed their lives to give others a better future. That idea is at the heart of Merona’s story.
We all have a choice.
Our discussion showed that writing a strong fantasy sequel requires careful planning and a deep respect for the source material. Riley uses established Celtic myths to ground her story while allowing her characters to drive the action naturally.
The demand for mythology-based fantasy will grow as readers seek more immersive stories. Authors who combine deep research with active plots provide a strong escape for their audience. Michaela Riley offers a compelling addition to the genre with this new release.
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