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The Frost Arcana #4
What Dawn Demands
“Gods never liked it when you beat them at their own games.”
After watching his city fall to pieces during his archenemy’s last attack, Vincent Whelan is finally ready to take the fight to Abarta. But in order to defeat an age-old god and his growing army of vicious fiends, Vince will have to take Kinsale’s selection of subdued paranormals and somehow turn them into a first-rate fighting force.
To complicate matters, the vampires have made themselves at home in Kinsale, and the city’s recovery is threatened by their escalating violence. So when Vince stumbles upon a major scheme in the making, spearheaded by the elder vampire who wants his head on a plate, he’ll have to navigate not only the dangers of Abarta’s next big move but also the rising risk of a vampire insurrection.
A cunning trap that could destroy the city. An ancient summoning that could destroy the world. A pair of powerful people determined to achieve their dark ambitions. And the only thing standing in the way of all this chaos is a half-fae with a cop badge, a cool sword, and a massive chip on his shoulder.
It’s Vincent Whelan versus the forces of absolute destruction, and the odds are far worse than fifty-fifty.
What Dawn Demands is the fourth novel of The Frost Arcana, an action-packed urban fantasy series set in a post-apocalyptic world.
After watching his city fall to pieces during his archenemy’s last attack, Vincent Whelan is finally ready to take the fight to Abarta. But in order to defeat an age-old god and his growing army of vicious fiends, Vince will have to take Kinsale’s selection of subdued paranormals and somehow turn them into a first-rate fighting force.
To complicate matters, the vampires have made themselves at home in Kinsale, and the city’s recovery is threatened by their escalating violence. So when Vince stumbles upon a major scheme in the making, spearheaded by the elder vampire who wants his head on a plate, he’ll have to navigate not only the dangers of Abarta’s next big move but also the rising risk of a vampire insurrection.
A cunning trap that could destroy the city. An ancient summoning that could destroy the world. A pair of powerful people determined to achieve their dark ambitions. And the only thing standing in the way of all this chaos is a half-fae with a cop badge, a cool sword, and a massive chip on his shoulder.
It’s Vincent Whelan versus the forces of absolute destruction, and the odds are far worse than fifty-fifty.
What Dawn Demands is the fourth novel of The Frost Arcana, an action-packed urban fantasy series set in a post-apocalyptic world.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2019
47 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Clara Coulson
27 books247 followersClara Coulson is an author of action-packed urban fantasy and paranormal thriller novels with sarcastic main characters and supernaturally empowered villains.
Currently living in the Middle of Nowhere, Virginia, Clara spends most of her time dreaming up bizarre paranormal scenarios and adapting them into novels and reading through the enormous backlog of books on her shelves.
Clara likes silly cats, pepperoni pizza, and collecting an absurd number of notebooks and BIC pens that she has no real use for.
Currently living in the Middle of Nowhere, Virginia, Clara spends most of her time dreaming up bizarre paranormal scenarios and adapting them into novels and reading through the enormous backlog of books on her shelves.
Clara likes silly cats, pepperoni pizza, and collecting an absurd number of notebooks and BIC pens that she has no real use for.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 8, 2019
4 Stars
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
This book was a little different from the others in the series because this was the book when Vince was done grudgingly waiting around for Abarta to make his next move and done denying his sidhe side. He was ready to put his full effort into fighting back, and it definitely changed the tone of the book, in a great way.
Things have gotten worse in the protected city of Kinsale, so this time, Vince and his friends form a whole group in order to gather/disseminate information and protect the population, and it was really nice seeing so many people work together to fight for their home. But of course, things always go awry for poor Vince, and this book had just as much intensity, if not more, than the previous books. Lots of action, lots of fights and battle scenes, lots of violence, lots of magic being thrown around.
Vince really kicked his badass factor up a notch this time. He also started to embrace his sidhe side more this time, knowing that he had to if he wanted to have any chance of winning, and it's always interesting to see more of that cold, powerful side of him. I love how powerful and scary the fae in this series are. It was also very interesting to see a certain memory that surfaced of his childhood in the Unseelie Court, and I'm itching to know more about that.
Another difference in this book was that it seemed Vince didn't spend as much time with his usual crew, but he did get acquainted with a couple new characters and spent more time with a character who only briefly appeared in a previous book.
Overall, this was another great book in this post-apoc urban fantasy series that continued to up the ante, and I'm really enjoying getting to see more and more of Vince's kick-butt fae side!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-3 in Clara Coulson's The Frost Arcana series. Anyone who likes urban fantasy, post-apoc settings, and fae.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
This book was a little different from the others in the series because this was the book when Vince was done grudgingly waiting around for Abarta to make his next move and done denying his sidhe side. He was ready to put his full effort into fighting back, and it definitely changed the tone of the book, in a great way.
Things have gotten worse in the protected city of Kinsale, so this time, Vince and his friends form a whole group in order to gather/disseminate information and protect the population, and it was really nice seeing so many people work together to fight for their home. But of course, things always go awry for poor Vince, and this book had just as much intensity, if not more, than the previous books. Lots of action, lots of fights and battle scenes, lots of violence, lots of magic being thrown around.
Vince really kicked his badass factor up a notch this time. He also started to embrace his sidhe side more this time, knowing that he had to if he wanted to have any chance of winning, and it's always interesting to see more of that cold, powerful side of him. I love how powerful and scary the fae in this series are. It was also very interesting to see a certain memory that surfaced of his childhood in the Unseelie Court, and I'm itching to know more about that.
Another difference in this book was that it seemed Vince didn't spend as much time with his usual crew, but he did get acquainted with a couple new characters and spent more time with a character who only briefly appeared in a previous book.
Overall, this was another great book in this post-apoc urban fantasy series that continued to up the ante, and I'm really enjoying getting to see more and more of Vince's kick-butt fae side!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-3 in Clara Coulson's The Frost Arcana series. Anyone who likes urban fantasy, post-apoc settings, and fae.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
February 1, 2019
“Freeze!” That word really is the best word for the culmination of the book and defines what happens throughout the book. No, you probably won’t understand that until reading the very end, and as I don’t want to spoil any of the events of this book I can’t say more. What I can say is that this book was a thrill-ride from the beginning until the end. I do have to admit at first I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book as it seemed to hop back and forth between two time periods. However, that ended as the meat of the story began. As I said about the one before this one, this series has become an adventure story about Vincent saving his beloved city and, really, the whole planet by the end of the book. And, we are learning more and more about Vincent’s past. We learn enough I am so ready to find out what’s up with him. And, the end…oh, my, the end of the book. I want to read the next one NOW! Great addition to the series! Start at the beginning, and you won’t regret it. I highly recommend this one! I was provided the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
January 30, 2019
This author is a '''whopper" of a story teller. In our fourth book in this series, Vincent Whelan is after revenge and he is starting to let his "Unseelie" fae side. He is slowly letting his magic come through. Now he wants to get back the God, Manannan and get the sword that he himself was sent to bring back to him. The "Trickster" God and indeed tricked Vic and he had fought to save himself and his friends in Hel where they had been tricked into going. Now the evil, vicious elder vamp and Abarta are teamed up to reek havoc on humanity and the remains of Vic's home city. Battles,graphic violence, bloodshed, evil magic, and Vic becoming more Unseelie than human are all waiting for the reader as you get entrenched in this book and series. Questions remain unanswered as we wait for the next in this series to come out. A cliff hanger for sure, but one I eagerly await to have resolved. strong sub characters, dark evil villains and a hero that we can all get behind makes this an incredible story to read. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.
April 4, 2019
This fourth book in the series had a slightly different feel to it. Vince seems to have matured between the events of books three and four. I think I like this confident Vince better than the “hidden” one. I will say, that this is the first book in the series to have a cliffhanger ending, and it felt longer than any of the previous books. I’m not usually a fan of the cliffhanger, but Coulson pulls it off without book four feeling incomplete. It’s been fun reading Vince grow as a character, and we learned a lot about the past histories of the world, Vince, and the fae. If I had to find fault, it’s that the recurring villains are getting a little stale. I realize that Abarta is the big bad, and his defeat would likely mean the end of the series, but he seems like doctor claw from inspector gadget. I still love the snark between Vince and Saoirse, and between Vince and everyone who shunned him before his lineage was revealed. Everybody cheers for the underdog, and Vincent Whelan is an underdog I can really get behind. Five stars like the rest of the series, and I can’t wait to read the next book.
February 2, 2019
Each book in this series is more awesome than the one before, I devoured it in one day and if it was possible I'd give this one 6 stars! Good thing that the next book to be out will be the next in this series because I absolutely can't wait to know what will happen now! ❤️
January 24, 2021
Gets better with each book. I like that Vincent is growing into his abilities and still being true to himself, in spite of his fears.
December 29, 2019
The general appointed as Mayor of Kinsale is very Fae, in that he does not care about humans, and his real skill is negotiating Fae society which is a problem, as there isn’t any here on Earth. Vincent Whelan pisses him off, sometimes deliberately so.
But he can be predicted to do the exact wrong thing, or at least that is what Whelan is planning on. And he’s bet the city on it.
*Winces.*
They know the vampires are inside the city boundary, they know they are collecting humans, they know they are aligned with Abarta, but they need time to prepare, to train and to fight. And they aren’t going to get enough of it. Plus, if just one whisper of what they are doing gets to super sensitive vampire ears, they are toast.
The fae soldiers want to defect. One has an iron wound as a result of a bungled order from the mayor. They tell Vince nine vampires watch his house.
But if he feeds enough tuna to stray cats he might find the one who can take him to Tom Tildrum.
888
If there is an armature for the whole series this one would be the ‘all is lost’ moment.
Major hints that Vince is more than just a half breed; this isn’t unexpected given the task he’s been handed and the fact that they scrambled his memories as a child, but still no real answer.
Vince stays true to character by trying to save people who turn out to be super useful later.
Vince also stays true to character by taking revenge - he’s a lot Sidhe like that - Manannán mac Lir betrayed him so he’s going down. Problem is, he is a god, and he’s unlikely to stay down.
4 stars
But he can be predicted to do the exact wrong thing, or at least that is what Whelan is planning on. And he’s bet the city on it.
*Winces.*
They know the vampires are inside the city boundary, they know they are collecting humans, they know they are aligned with Abarta, but they need time to prepare, to train and to fight. And they aren’t going to get enough of it. Plus, if just one whisper of what they are doing gets to super sensitive vampire ears, they are toast.
The fae soldiers want to defect. One has an iron wound as a result of a bungled order from the mayor. They tell Vince nine vampires watch his house.
But if he feeds enough tuna to stray cats he might find the one who can take him to Tom Tildrum.
888
If there is an armature for the whole series this one would be the ‘all is lost’ moment.
Major hints that Vince is more than just a half breed; this isn’t unexpected given the task he’s been handed and the fact that they scrambled his memories as a child, but still no real answer.
Vince stays true to character by trying to save people who turn out to be super useful later.
Vince also stays true to character by taking revenge - he’s a lot Sidhe like that - Manannán mac Lir betrayed him so he’s going down. Problem is, he is a god, and he’s unlikely to stay down.
4 stars
March 4, 2019
I received an ARC edition of this book from the author.
You need to read the previous books in the series to understand the background.
Vince has once again saved the city, but he isn't going to get much of a breather before he needs to save the world once again. Vince is going to have to embrace his Fae side in order to stop the coming threat. I like that this one gives us some more hints about Vince's Fae side, and we are certainly seeing him grow in his powers. There are the twists I've come to expect from this series are certainly present in this story, but it focuses a lot more on Vincent and his Fae past and him no longer being a playing piece in the larger plot but rather a move maker.
This book definitely has a To Be Continued ending, so I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the next book to see how things continue to develop.
You need to read the previous books in the series to understand the background.
Vince has once again saved the city, but he isn't going to get much of a breather before he needs to save the world once again. Vince is going to have to embrace his Fae side in order to stop the coming threat. I like that this one gives us some more hints about Vince's Fae side, and we are certainly seeing him grow in his powers. There are the twists I've come to expect from this series are certainly present in this story, but it focuses a lot more on Vincent and his Fae past and him no longer being a playing piece in the larger plot but rather a move maker.
This book definitely has a To Be Continued ending, so I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the next book to see how things continue to develop.
September 21, 2022
Vince has grown quite a bit over time and finally has accepted both of his inheritances, embracing his fae side fully. It's still not clear who he is exactly, but the ongoing interest of Queen Mab and Tom Tildrum in a mere half-blood, as well as his own powers and flashbacks to his childhood in the winter court suggest that there's more to him than meets the eye.
We are a step farther in the machinations of Abarta, but this book doesn't solve the case yet. If at all, the conditions in Kinsale have become even more grim than before. The book leaves us with a big cliffhanger and the next book will hopefully show some progress. I don't think Abarta can stay the big bad enemy forever.
We are a step farther in the machinations of Abarta, but this book doesn't solve the case yet. If at all, the conditions in Kinsale have become even more grim than before. The book leaves us with a big cliffhanger and the next book will hopefully show some progress. I don't think Abarta can stay the big bad enemy forever.
August 16, 2020
Wow just Wow
It gets difficult to write reviews for this series as each book just kicks it up a notch. This continues to be so damn good and one hell of a action packed story. I will be truly sorry when it all ends. If you've read this far then you know how intense and fun this is. The relationships and stories within stories are phenomenal. Writing is exquisite. The Wild Hunt is coming to earth and I need to find out what happens and to have secrets finally revealed. Next book please
It gets difficult to write reviews for this series as each book just kicks it up a notch. This continues to be so damn good and one hell of a action packed story. I will be truly sorry when it all ends. If you've read this far then you know how intense and fun this is. The relationships and stories within stories are phenomenal. Writing is exquisite. The Wild Hunt is coming to earth and I need to find out what happens and to have secrets finally revealed. Next book please
September 20, 2021
What Dawn Demands is a fast-paced urban fantasy that is also a battle of magics and mudanes and evil gods.
This is the fourth book and I really thought it was the last in the series (now I found out that there are two more books - sigh)
I liked this book and I like the previous ones, the second book was slow to me, but I kept reading. I will probably get the last two in the series because this was worked really well with all the secondary characters coming together and a few new ones added to the mix.
Entertaining reads all around.
This is the fourth book and I really thought it was the last in the series (now I found out that there are two more books - sigh)
I liked this book and I like the previous ones, the second book was slow to me, but I kept reading. I will probably get the last two in the series because this was worked really well with all the secondary characters coming together and a few new ones added to the mix.
Entertaining reads all around.
May 3, 2019
I didn't think the books in this series could get any better - they are already over the top - but this book takes it all to the next level. Intense action, nasty bad guys, dastardly plots and a hero that is so freaking flawed and yet all everyone should try to be. Just loved it! Bouncing in my seat waiting for the next one to come out!
May 20, 2019
Enemies All Around
Vince Whelan, now back on Kinsale's police force on it's paranormal division, faces powerful enemies who want to destroy Earth and the fairy realm. The reader learns a little more about Vince in each book as he steps up to protect his friends, home, and world. He's not alone in his fight, but can the Watchdogs overcome what appears to be insurmountable odds?
Vince Whelan, now back on Kinsale's police force on it's paranormal division, faces powerful enemies who want to destroy Earth and the fairy realm. The reader learns a little more about Vince in each book as he steps up to protect his friends, home, and world. He's not alone in his fight, but can the Watchdogs overcome what appears to be insurmountable odds?
October 25, 2019
This is the 4th book of the series and I was so impressed that when I reached the last page and it only had one word on it , I was mystified. The first book of the series is sort of slow and you have to push through it but boy, when you get to two and up... Love the series. Can’t wait till December for the 5th.
June 20, 2020
Coulson continues to build her post-apocalyptic world with Vince as her protagonist. And Vince has his hands full.
There are a few annoying typos (fewer than 10), but there really annoying thing is her misuse of the British slangy word "chuffed". Chuffed is a positive word, but for some reason Coulson has decided it means something bad. Step away from the terminology.
There are a few annoying typos (fewer than 10), but there really annoying thing is her misuse of the British slangy word "chuffed". Chuffed is a positive word, but for some reason Coulson has decided it means something bad. Step away from the terminology.
February 2, 2019
Wow
I loved this book. It grips you from the very beginning all through the book. I couldn't t put it down.
Wow, what an ending. The plot thickens. Who exactly is Vince ? Who is the " the enemy"? And what happened to his mother?
Can't wait for the next one.
I loved this book. It grips you from the very beginning all through the book. I couldn't t put it down.
Wow, what an ending. The plot thickens. Who exactly is Vince ? Who is the " the enemy"? And what happened to his mother?
Can't wait for the next one.
February 9, 2019
Ok, this is book four in the series and as good if not better than the last. Magic, vampires spells etc etc. I just love urban fantasy and this is the best kind. Action and intrigue all the way. Highly recommended.
February 13, 2020
I really really liked this book, more so than the last one. But in the beginning are a lot of timejumps that don‘t really make sense, at all. Every chapter is at another point in time and it is annoying. That’s why I gave only four instead of five stars.
February 15, 2019
Fantastic
I can't find the words to describe just how good this series is - all I can say is read it for yourself. If I could give 6 stars i would!
I can't find the words to describe just how good this series is - all I can say is read it for yourself. If I could give 6 stars i would!
June 26, 2019
Big start, big ending
There are still a few secrets, and the final fight remains ahead. But the MC continues to shed his restraint. Can’t wait for the 5th book.
There are still a few secrets, and the final fight remains ahead. But the MC continues to shed his restraint. Can’t wait for the 5th book.
May 27, 2021
Good series about a part fae former cop who now scavenges the wasteland outside his city for things to sell. Set in a post-apocalyptic US.
May 29, 2025
I appreciate the timeskips within this book because there's a lot of changes that could only realistically come to fruition if the characters had weeks/months to heal, train and learn. We finally learned a bit about Vince's childhood - and maybe a lil something about Tom Tildrum too.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews