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A Shade of Vampire #14

A Dawn of Strength

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The people of The Shade are no strangers to storms.
But the army of black witches racing toward their shores now is a cyclone unlike any the island has weathered before.
Either victory or defeat awaits the Novaks at the end of the night...
A new dawn is breaking over The Shade.

325 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 10, 2015

1811 people are currently reading
3721 people want to read

About the author

Bella Forrest

189 books8,635 followers
UPDATE MARCH 11, 2024:

BELLA IS BACK!

*** New, updated online store at https://BellaForrest.com

*** New books coming soon

*** Possible Film/TV series coming soon

*** Stay up to date by joining our e-mail list at https://BellaForrest.com/join

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Bella Forrest is a lover of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery infused stories with twists you don’t see coming. She has sold over fifteen million books since her first novel was published in 2012.

Check out her website for a full list of her books: https://BellaForrest.com

Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BellaForrest...

Here's a list of some of Bella's books:

DARKLIGHT

Darklight (Book 1)
Darkthirst (Book 2)
Darkworld (Book 3)
Darkblood (Book 4)
Darktide (Book 5)
Darkbirth (Book 6)
Darkfall (Book 7)
Darkwilds (Book 8)
Darkhunt (Book 9)

A LOVE THAT ENDURES (Trilogy)
A Love that Endures 1
A Love that Endures 2
A Love that Endures 3

HARLEY MERLIN AND THE SECRET COVEN

Harley Merlin and the Secret Coven (Book 1)
Harley Merlin and the Mystery Twins (Book 2)
Harley Merlin and the Stolen Magicals (Book 3)
Harley Merlin and the First Ritual (Book 4)
Harley Merlin and the Broken Spell (Book 5)
Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris (Book 6)
Harley Merlin and the Detector Fix (Book 7)
Harley Merlin and the Challenge of Chaos (Book 8)
Harley Merlin and the Mortal Pact (Book 9)
Finch Merlin and the Fount of Youth (Book 10)
Finch Merlin and the Lost Map (Book 11)
Finch Merlin and the Djinn's Curse (Book 12)
Finch Merlin and the Locked Gateway (Book 13)
Finch Merlin and the Forgotten Kingdom (Book 14)
Finch Merlin and the Everlasting Vow (Book 15)
Finch Merlin and the Blood Tie (Book 16)
Finch Merlin and the Legend of the Luminary
Persie Merlin and Leviathan's Gift (Book 18)
Persie Merlin and the Door to Nowhere (Book 19)
Persie Merlin and the Witch Hunters (Book 20)
Persie Merlin and the Dying Song (Book 21)

THE CHILD THIEF

The Child Thief (Book 1)
Deep Shadows (Book 2)
Thin Lines (Book 3)
Little Lies (Book 4)
Ghost Towns (Book 5)
Zero Hour (Book 6)

HOTBLOODS

Hotbloods (Book 1)
Hotbloods (Book 2): Coldbloods
Hotbloods (Book 3): Renegades
Hotbloods (Book 4): Venturers
Hotbloods (Book 5): Traitors
Hotbloods (Book 6): Allies
Hotbloods (Book 7): Invaders
Hotbloods (Book 8): Stargazers

THE GENDER GAME

The Gender Game (Book 1)
The Gender Secret (Book 2)
The Gender Lie (Book 3)
The Gender War (Book 4)
The Gender Fall (Book 5)
The Gender Plan (Book 6)
The Gender End (Book 7)

THE GIRL WHO DARED TO THINK

The Girl Who Dared to Think (Book 1)
The Girl Who Dared to Stand (Book 2)
The Girl Who Dared to Descend (Book 3)
The Girl Who Dared to Rise (Book 4)
The Girl Who Dared to Lead (Book 5)
The Girl Who Dared to Endure (Book 6
The Girl Who Dared to Fight (Book 7)

A SHADE OF VAMPIRE

Season 1: Derek & Sofia’s story

Books 1 to 7

Season 2: Rose & Caleb’s story

Books 8 to 16

Season 3: The Shade continues with a new hero...

Books 17 to 24

Season 4: A Clan of Novaks

Books 25 to 32

Season 5: A Dawn of Guardians

Books 33 to 41

Season 6: A Gift of Three

Books 42 to 50

Season 7: A Call of Vampires

Books 51 to 59

Season 8: A Voyage of Founders

Books 60 to 68

Season 9: A Birth of Fire

Books 69 to 77

Season 10: An Origin of Vampires
An Origin of Vampires (Book 78)
A Game of Death (Book 79)
A Veil of Dark (Book 80)
A Bringer of Night (Book 81)
A Circle of Nine (Book 82)
A Bender of Spirit (Book 83)
A Memory of Time (Book 84)
A Shard of Soul (Book 85)
A Break of Seals (Book 86)

Season 11: A Shade of Mystery
A Shade of Mystery (Book 87)
An Isle of Mirrors (Book 88)
A Sanctuary of Foes (Book 89)
A Ruler of Clones (Book 90)
A Gate of Light (Book 91)
A Dawn of Worlds (Book 92) ➜ Coming soon!

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5 stars
3,173 (59%)
4 stars
1,479 (27%)
3 stars
552 (10%)
2 stars
84 (1%)
1 star
21 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,028 reviews25.3k followers
June 25, 2015
 photo shade_zps1cbae75a.jpg

A Dawn of Strength is book fourteen in the series A Shade of Vampire by Bella Forrest. This book, maybe even more so than the others, is full of intense action but also I believe shows more than ever the love and devotion between the residents of The Shade.

The Shade’s residents are becoming more diverse than ever. We have werewolves, vampires of course, humans, now two ogres, Brett and Bella, witches, and there will be yet another species added to the mix.

riding on a dragon - Google Search

The Shade is getting ready to be attacked by the black witches. But Mona is the only witch strong enough to maintain the shield around the island. Can she alone keep the shield strong enough to keep out the black witches?

trees on fire - Google Search

We are reminded in this book of the deep love between Derek and Sofia. After fourteen books, these two are pretty solid.

“She was just as beautiful to me as the day I’d first laid eyes on her. She was, and had always been, my fire during the longest winter. My moon during the darkest night.”

witches battling - Google Search

The danger they are all facing I believe is the worse so far. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat pretty much throughout this book. But through it all, again, we see the intense bonds everyone, no matter the species, has for one another.

“How could they all remain so loyal to this island, even in the face of such danger? It was at that moment that I realized just how much The Shade meant, not only to vampires, but to every single one of us.
The Shade was our home.
A place we would fight for.
A place we would die for.”


Magic Empowerment/Magic Enhancement : Users become stronger, faster, more durable, etc. when they come in contact with magic, possibly unlocking abilities related to the affinity and enhancing the existing powers. Some users may be able draw sustenance from the magic or even slow or stop aging.

We really see the future Queen of The Shade in Rose in this book. She has become so brave and thinks fast in the face of danger. Rose also discovers something new and very important about herself in this book. She and Caleb are perfect together. They are stronger than ever. I’m still waiting for, well, you know.

“My girl.
No matter how much I tried to keep her out of danger, she always found a way to run right back to it. A Novak if there ever was one.”


They could never touch without pain but they loved to see the steam come from it. So they would do it any way just to see the pictures of steam that would float away.

So the title for this one is perfect, A Dawn of Strength. The residents of our favorite island band together in the face of their fiercest battle yet. Will they be strong enough? It’s a true test of good versus evil. The next book, A Fall of Secrets, is due out July 4. I can’t wait.

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Profile Image for Melissa.
151 reviews
February 4, 2017
My favourite in the series for a while. I loved the vast amount of characters portrayed rather than just the focus being on Rose and Caleb. I particularly like Adien getting some happiness finally, I just hope this continues into the next book. I'm also relived that Derek has now embraced Caleb and I've enjoyed a very in love and defensive Kiev.
Bella has completely swept me back up with this book which I was unsure about, what with the introduction of so many other supernatural characters suddenly being introduced. If it was any other author I'd of ran for the hills but Forrest writes so beautifully. I love the dragons and I am looking forward to seeing how their romance of the shades women pans out. I am left wondering how their relationship with the ogres will work and how Rhys was able to still show kindness towards mona despite the darkness absorbing him. I hope that the next book will answer these questions.
Ultimately, I can really see this being turned into a movie. The battle would be epic, as would rose developing her powers. These books are always very vivid in my mind but this one particularly stood out. I'd definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for J. Kahele.
Author 15 books438 followers
January 31, 2016
Dragons

During the battle against the black witches, the dragons are there to help,we find out why they have been chasing Rose, because she is apart of them. We learn that Derek has dragon in him, thus transferring the powers by birth to Rose.

It's tense as they search the island for survivors and find that all is well after they find there loved ones.

Caleb and Derek have a moment alone and it's here when he tells Derek that is intentions with Rose are to marry her. But can Derek agree and let his daughter go, to a vampire who has some some horrific things in his life?
Profile Image for Mikayla.
543 reviews34 followers
June 12, 2015
Another great book from Bella Forrest. The only thing I can say is I wish there was more from Ben. I know he'll be in the next book alot more, but could have been mentioned a little more.
Profile Image for Val..
307 reviews23 followers
July 9, 2015
Sigh....Rose annoyed me so much in this book! I feel like each book Is starting to be the same. Dragons, black witches, ect, ect. I feel like I have been reading the same story for the past couple of books. I hope the next one (yes, there is a next one) will be a little better once we move away from Rose and focus on Ben. Ben is a little bit darker and I'm looking forward to seeing where that goes.
Profile Image for Kim.
310 reviews44 followers
February 3, 2016
"A timeless barrier has been broken. Things will never be the same for the human world again..."

Book 14....Yes this is a long glorious series people. This book is by far my fav one. With lots of nonstop action. Black witches are on a blood hunt and out to capture all vampires, werewolves and humans that reside in the shade. The shape shifting dragons are also back. And gosh I love them!!! I mean if u haven't read theses books you must. Highly addicting!
Profile Image for Jenny Whetzel.
422 reviews27 followers
June 15, 2015
Another great book by Bella! There is so much adventure, that boredom doesn't stand a CHANCE!
Profile Image for J.E. Benoit.
Author 2 books34 followers
June 13, 2015
‘The Shade was our home. A place we would fight for. A place we would die for.’

Man, these books just keep getting better! The last book set the wheels in motion for a pretty epic showdown between the residents of The Shade and the black witches and that’s exactly what we got in this book. This book went from 0-60 in about 1 chapter and kept the pedal to the metal the entire time! Once again we get to see the residents of The Shade (now more varied than ever) band together to protect their home against this newest threat. We’ve seen it before and it’s one of the things I love most about this series. I love the sense of community and how so many different types of people/creatures can come together to help. There were so many little twists and turns that took place in the midst of this all-out war, some big decisions were made and some big discoveries about one character is also uncovered. A few times I was very nervous for the fate of some of the characters, there’s a particularly heart wrenching scene towards the end of the battle that had my mind scrambling trying to figure out if the author was really going to go there or not (you’ll know what I mean when you get to that part). Oh and remember the dragons in the last book? Well they’re back in a BIG way here and I thought it was awesome! It looks like there are two more books coming out to wrap up Rose & Caleb’s story, and then will we get Ben’s story?? I sure hope so! But regardless, if Bella keeps writing these books, I will keep reading them!

4.5 stars!
Profile Image for Angela Sanders.
Author 47 books976 followers
November 29, 2016
The battle rages on...

In this installment, Sophia and Caleb go through hell and back. The Shade is in danger of being attacked by Black Witches and White Witches have returned with their own agenda.
Caleb betrayed the black witches when he fell in love with Rose and risked his life to protect her. Now he's enemy number one.
There's so many supernatural realms, twists, turns, and unbelievable surprises, you'll be be left with your heart pounding!
While the Shade gains new and mind blowing allies, will their newfound strength be enough to save them? You have to read and find out!
Book 14 is the most action packed of them all so far...and most likely my favorite! I absolutely love this series! 5 stars!
Profile Image for Tallkins.
46 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2015
Just when you think this series could get no better, the next book blows you away!! really don't know what I will do when the adventures of the shade come to an end!!! another outstanding book bella forrest!!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
32 reviews
June 12, 2015
Another great adventure in The Shade. I liked the battle with the Black Witches, finding out what Rose's powers are, and seeing what the dragons really wanted. Can't wait for book 15!!
Profile Image for Andrea Osterlund.
42 reviews
July 21, 2015
So impressed with the creative story lines Bella comes up with. Love it!!
Profile Image for Sonja.
320 reviews
September 9, 2015
Fantastic story..

This episode of the series was so exciting I couldn't stop reading. I've already downloaded the next book so I must cut this review short to start. book 15 .....
Profile Image for Katelyn Rose.
570 reviews25 followers
May 23, 2018
This was one of the best books in the series yet! I will warn you the rest of this review may contain spoilers so I will put a line so you know when it starts, I just have so much to talk about!
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Spoiler time! The war in this book was by far the best I have ever read in this series, and even other books out there! I got the feels when Caleb was told by Rose's parents that he could stay on the island, but he said he will stay as long as your daughter wants me here! <3 When Rose found out that Ben wasn't there and he took off, seeing her break down was sad, but Caleb knew to comfort her and it was very sweet. You realize while reading this book how much the Shade means to everyone and how they will die for it. Even though Caleb just got there he fought for the island, but my heart broke when Rose realized she couldn't help and she told him to make it back to her. The war was very intense and you weren't sure who was safe and you never know what the author has in store. When Rose decided the leave the Black Heights, she felt the power within her and it was amazing to see that she shared the same powers as her father. No one knew she had them but now she was powerful and ready to fight. When Caleb saw her and knew she was luring the dragons in, you could see how much he loved her because he was shocked to see her and wanted to make sure she was safe in the mountains. The flirting between the two is so genuine and real and I can only hope for the best in the future. Can I just say when Aiden said to Derek how he would be a grandpa soon and looked at Rose and Caleb, it was so funny and sweet to imagine them making a family together and I loved how she stood up for him when talking to the dragons. This book really showed their strength together and how they all came together to fight for their home and people. It was AMAZING!
(Also I'm sorry this review was all over the place, I have so many thoughts since I just finished it, maybe I should've take a minute to think, oh well! xD
105 reviews2 followers
June 7, 2019
OMG 😲

Ok wow where do I start. This book as the others amazing. Okay so Rose and Celeb continue to face challenges. Derek, Sophia, Aiden, Vivianne and the rest, well, they to have a lot to do and going on lol

The new alliances are awesome!!!! Can’t wait to see them played out. Can’t wait to see what awaits the Shade and all its inhabitants.

I laughed, I cheered and I cried!!!! What?!?! Yes, this book made me cry. 🤣. Definitely amazing moments in here.

Well off to #15!!!!
2,192 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2019
Whoa..exciting

Caleb finds Rose alive when the dragons attack the Ogres and they take Rose instead. Back at The Shade, they are gearing up for the fight of their lives against both the white witches and the black witches.

When the dragons intervene and help, try defeat both witches with the help of the vampire warriors. Rose comes into her fire powers during the battle. But with Caleb by her side, she realizes that she can do anything.

Ben is gone for good, and he joins a group of rogue vampires.

What will happen next to The Shade?
Profile Image for Danielle (mybookworld).
3 reviews
March 2, 2018
One of my Favorite Series!!!!….. started the series awhile back but just picked it up a few books back. Loved this book just like the others. Bella Forest books are always full of love, adventure, and excitement. She always has a great combination of everything. This book did not fail. I love all the characters and cant wait to continue the series!
110 reviews
January 20, 2019
Maybe my favorite

This might be favorite but they're all so good. Old enemies, new allies. New powers. What's will happen to Ben? What will be the consiquences of his actions? Lots of love in this book maybe that's why I like it so much. Also, I do so enjoy when the bad guys get a good as kicking!
Profile Image for Maria Banales.
406 reviews2 followers
December 3, 2017
Rose and Caleb

Rose and Caleb have a more loving relationship their attraction for each other is not as intense as I thought it would be, but I love their story just the same, and these books are still so good that I still can’t stop reading them.
Profile Image for Teresa.
645 reviews
February 17, 2018
So good!!

Another great read such as all the previous books. Rose and Calebs relationship is so lovely and sweet. I love how there's so much going on with the other characters aswell as Rose and Caleb. Derek will always be my fave but Caleb takes a very close second place!
Profile Image for Rose Lautenschlager.
12 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2018
Love it

I know it might seem like it's just graging on but it just keeps getting better and better I'm going to bummed when I'm finished with the whole series. I would most definitely recommend this series to anyone that loves vampires and whiches it's the greatest.
22 reviews
March 26, 2018
Thrilling

Okay so this is it this book has kept me on edge and I just want to dig in two books left till the end of there story and I can’t wait to see what happens and dragons wow they have got me all warmed up!!
572 reviews6 followers
November 3, 2019
Thrilling

Hold on for a fast paced adventure. Rose gets into non stop trouble and Caleb is her hero. Lots of romances blooming and battles to be fought really keep things interesting.
Profile Image for abigail lageson.
1 review
July 8, 2017
LOVED IT!!

I can't get over these series and I absolutely love them. Caleb and Rose have come from a long ways and I want Ben back soon
❤❤❤❤❤
Profile Image for Kelle.
243 reviews
September 18, 2017
Ahhhhhhhhhh Back on track!! I loved this one. I love the Dragons!! Rose didn't drive me nuts in this book. But I am worried about Ben.... LOL Happy reading!!
Profile Image for Mary Winstead.
1,263 reviews16 followers
December 10, 2017
hell is broken loose on the shade. Black witches trying to over take the island and the dragons that rose is princess too wants her back and will stop at nothing to get her back.
Profile Image for Laura.
3 reviews
January 26, 2018
Another page Turner!

Fourteen books in and I still can't stop reading. As always I am impressed by the quality of content. Thank you!
Profile Image for Rin.
303 reviews8 followers
February 25, 2018
Amazingly AWESOME

The shade is under attack. They only have hours to put together a plan of action. So much action in this book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews

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