Facing the Dawn

"Facing the Dawn." The cover and title of this book really intrigued me - a very unique, lovely, and tranquil scene. But unfortunately, the adage "don't judge a book by it's cover" applies very much to this novel. From the synopsis I could tell it was a probably a little sad, but I was hoping for so much more than this story has to give. Mara has a hard life trying to raise three teens almost all on her own, but the disrespectful and smart-aleck way she thinks and talks to God is completely uncalled for and unacceptable. Also, the extreme sarcasm with others (and God) really grated on me. I use a little here and there when dealing with some people, but it was used way too much in this book. And while Liam was trying to do a good thing in the mission field, you don't all but abandon your family to go do "God's work". You go together, or you don't go at all. While others may relate well to this novel, it simply hit all the wrong notes for me, and the "Christian" theme is very shallow and empty. I received this book free from Revell. The thoughts above are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review.

"It was time for the sacred to win out over scared. How curious that those two words were so different but shared the same vowels and consonants with only two of them reversed. Scared could, theoretically, be converted into sacred with very little effort." This is not the book to read when you're in the mood for light, fluffy romance. The author addresses really tough issues like insurmountable grief, substance abuse, broken dreams, shattered faith, and depths of despair with raw and gut-wrenching emotions and transparency. But once you pick up the book, you will not be able to put it down. With her beautiful and lyrical writing, Cynthia Ruchti will pull you into the almost stream of consciousness type of storytelling as Mara travels her journey from bitterness, resentment, and self-blame to beauty, love, and hope even in the midst of ashes and pain. This is a book that will stay with you a long time after you've finished the last page. Mara has a quirky sense of humor and a hefty dose of sarcasm and cynicism in her personality. It was very easy to relate to her fears, angst, and heart cries regarding her children since I have children who are similar ages as Mara. Life really beats her up but the unwavering and faithful friends she has in Ashlee and Sol encourage, embrace, push, shove, and redirect with just the right amount of love, correction, and discipline. There isn't much romance in the book but the solidarity and loyalty found in God-ordained friendships clearly shines through the pages. If you enjoy women's fiction that digs deep and makes you reflect, you will absolutely love this book. I received the book from Revell via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.