Facing the Dawn

by Cynthia Ruchti

"Ruchti has a gift for taking characters through their grief and lifting them to a place higher than themselves . . . The message of hope in a situation that seems hopeless is especially needed now."--Library Journal starred review"An emotional roller coaster of loss, faith, hope, and redemption. I couldn't stop reading."--Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times bestselling author***While her humanitarian husband Liam has been digging wells in Africa, Mara Jacobs has been struggling. She knows she's supposed to feel a warm glow that her husband is nine time zones away, caring for widows and orphans. But the reality is that she is exhausted, working a demanding yet unrewarding job, trying to manage their three detention-prone kids, failing at her to-repair list, and fading like a garment left too long in the sun.Then Liam's three-year absence turns into something more, changing everything and plunging her into a sunless grief. As Mara struggles to find her footing, she discovers that even when hope is tenuous, faith is fragile, and the future is unknown, we can be sure we are not forgotten . . . or unloved.With emotionally evocative prose that tackles tough topics with tenderness and hope, award-winning author Cynthia Ruchti invites you on a journey of the heart you won't soon forget."Ruchti delivers well-rounded, believable characters and has a sure hand at charting the ways they process complex emotions. This packs an emotional punch."--Publishers Weekly"Ruchti delves deeply into the ebb and flow of Mara's struggles and weaves in themes of guilt, betrayal, hope, and redemption."--Booklist

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Contemporary, Christian, Womens Fiction, Inspirational, Grief

318 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2021

About the author

Cynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed-in-Hope through her novels and novellas, nonfiction books and devotionals, and through speaking for women's and writers' events. Her books have been recognized by many top industry readers', reviewers', library, retailer, and other honors. Cynthia is the Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a literary agent with Books & Such Literary Management. She and her plot-tweaking husband live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three children and five (to date) grandchildren.

Reviews

[Melissa (Vacation Mode) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, all of the tears for this one.
Such a gorgeously written, beautiful book, but everything I have come to expect from Cynthia Ruchti.
It is all at the same time a tale of love, loss, friendship, faith, family, and rebuilding. It evokes shades of the story of Job, the story of Ruth, and the laments of the Psalms.
God's wonderful redemption in the midst of tragedy, small glimmers of hope when all seems bleak, and those who stand beside you holding you up when you can't hold yourself up--these are all themes that resonate throughout this novel.

This is not an easy story to read, in fact it is a downright difficult story to read at times, but it is definitely worthwhile. Mara isn't an immediately likable character, but there's real life relatability in that. I think this is a book that is going to touch the reader deeply if they are in a place to open up to letting that happen. It challenged me spiritually and emotionally in some very meaningful ways, and I'm thankful for that.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read a book like Facing The Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti in a long time.
Tissues are required for this one.
This is so realistic, the characters could be your neighbors or even yourself.
This book touched my heart and the author has written it just right showing compassion where it was needed but giving a pep talk and true encouragement when needed as well.
Mara Jacobs is the families strength at least she feels like she should be but it's so hard to hold it together as she promised her husband she could. She is crumbling but can't let it show . Her husband has been gone to do missionary work in Africa, digging wells as a humanitarian helping widows and children . She's proud of him but she's so lonely in her marriage and her children are floundering without their father's direction.
Then the unthinkable happens and the sunshine goes out in her life as the news of his death reaches her.
Her faith is fragile , she has the support of her best friend but friends can only do so much as renewal has to come from within through God strengthening us.
When she receives the devastating news of another tragedy will she be able to find the resilience to continue on?
Beautifully worded and encouraging book through tragedy as she seeks redemption and the healing waters.
Highly recommended!

Published March 02,2021.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never had a book make me cry as mush as this one did. Ruchti never disappoints but you never know what you are going to read. She never writes the same story twice.
The pressure to not sit and cry was so hard. The forgiving and healing was so prevalent on these pages.
I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend it.
Grab your copy, you can thank me later.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a powerful novel about working through grief. There was a point fairly early on when I thought perhaps Facing the Dawn was a retelling of the story of Job. Mara Jacobs faces a number of obstacles and I do mean a number of them. She regularly uses sarcasm and humor to lighten moments and I think to give herself a space to breathe before facing the reality of what is in front of her.

Facing the Dawn is a heavy read, but one filled with hope and fabulous characters. I adored Mara and every secondary character. Without asking or thinking she needed one, Mara is blessed to have a support system around her.

Another beautifully penned novel by the talented Cynthia Ruchti. My gratitude to publisher Revell for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

“When life falls apart, God’s plan hasn’t. It’s still active but adds a soul-healing component.”
What happens when Mara Jacobs whole world collapses? “Hard doesn’t mean unsurvivable. Mistakes don’t automatically dictate a future. And regrets have an antidote. God’s love and peace.”
Through the blows she has been dealt, Mara tries to hold it together. Her forever friend Ashlee moves back into town and helps her discover her inner strength by being a true friend.
Instead of this story being a downer, the author insinuates a lighter note by Mara’s snarky internal comments. Was she always this way or is it a defense mechanism?
There are moments of sorrow and pain but also a light that shines and levity. In other words- believably human reactions.
Mara learns that her name not only means *bitter* but *strong*. My emotions ran the gamut right along with Mara.
Superb writing by an author that I will read again. One of my top picks of the year.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Program. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Andrea Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.

This book was good, perhaps great, but it wasn’t a good fit for me.

The first half was so stuffed with sarcasm that I really struggled to feel connected with it at all. I had difficulty feeling bad for Mara when things went completely sideways on her, simply because she wasn’t a very likable or relatable character to me through the entire first half. (I did learn to like her better as things progressed into the second half, thankfully.)

Then, here trots the second half, and I’m completely blown away.

That’s what I expect from a Ruchti novel: to be emotionally moved and completely blown away. She succeeded once again, in the second half of the story.

Ashlee and Sol were amazing from beginning to end, and they were the ones who kept me interested when the Jacobs family didn’t. I did like the growth each of the Jacobses showed in the second half of the story. That was really well done and gave me great hope for their next chapter after the finale of this particular glimpse into their lives.

My hopes were up high for discovering what was inside a certain missive. Even though there was lots of lead-up to discovery, the actual revelation never happened, so that thread was left completely unfinished for me.

Yet, the climax and finale were stunning and beautiful and exactly the way they should have been. The finale line, which I will not share here, was so exactly Sol… It really took my breath away and made me grin. I cannot fully express the satisfaction and amazement I experienced in those final chapters, despite a couple of unfinished tidbits.

Mara’s grief journey was superb. I wish I could have “enjoyed” it from the beginning, but that overly-sarcastic first half hampered my emotions from getting properly engaged until about the halfway point. Once I got invested, though, I held nothing back. Tears were shed, folks. A couple of times, actually. Mara really grew on me quickly in the back half of the story. Her grief and sorrow were exquisitely expressed. I liked that she reacted poorly at times, because that made her so realistic. We don’t always think clearly in the midst of grief, and that was fantastically shown here.

If sarcasm (in heavy doses) wasn’t a huge pet peeve for me, I probably would have adored this book. I know many other readers will love it.

Side note: I'm not sure why there was such a heavy emphasis on calling cranberry sauce "gel." Every can of cranberry sauce I've ever seen (in person [in various states, not just my own of Texas, because this is one of my favorite foods], online, and on television) has been labeled as "cranberry sauce" (some are labeled "jellied cranberry sauce"), so I'm not sure where this non-plot issue (no one was even shown eating the "gel" after it got to the event) came from. It was very distracting and took me out of the story for a good half hour so I could do some research on the subject. Even after that amount of time, I still came up empty on any references online to cranberry "gel."

Trigger: suicide (child and adult)

Content: teen smoking, teen drug use, child drug use, suicide (child and adult), teen pregnancy (mentioned), gambling (mentioned)

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you ready to cry your eyes out? In a good way? Once again, Ruchti manages to plumb the depths of sorrow only to resurface with a glorious splash of hope!

Although I still can't believe she made Mara give up sugar. I mean, really, didn't the woman have ENOUGH to deal with?!?

[Sam B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another great book by Cynthia Ruchti. This author doesn't shy away from hard subject and in this book she tackles grief.

Mara experiences a lot of loss through the story, but also learns how to move forward and see God's light again.
My only complaint is that I wished we could have seen more of the kid's side of the story, because they navigated their pain very differently.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of the book. It did not affect my review.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

"When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun, O, Lord have mercy on me."

Water. Mara Jacobs is not afraid of water . . . only what it represents. "Clean water took Liam's heart to Africa. Muddy water took his health. Lack of water took . . . . ". Yes, it took her husband away from her. Liam Jacobs dedicated his life to providing clean drinking water for those who needed it the most, deep in the heart of Uganda. Having served three of his four years under contract with Deep Wells, Inc. the news that Mara received was shocking. She wasn't prepared. The irony of it all. Hadn't she been the one continually assuring Liam that she was prepared . . . for anything, but this.

Plunged into the depth of colorless days and endless nights, Mara struggles to find her footing; goodness, even getting out of bed takes more energy that she can manage to find or admit. Her three teen children, typically challenging her sanity with their usual pushbacks against her authority(while making it perfectly clear that she is not the "fun" parent), are now reeling from the news that has rocked their world to the core. As if hitting rock bottom isn't enough, the unthinkable occurs, and Mara finds herself being sucked further into oblivion, her already delicate soul suffering relentless waves of hopelessness and despair.

When life becomes absolutely silent, God's still small voice faithfully carries His message; "guard the dawn". With the help of her forever friend Ashlee, and a surprising new acquaintance Sol, Mara begins the agonizing journey towards the light of life.

What a tough and tender approach to loss.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"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.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little hard for me to rate. Deep with heavy content, it's a story about a woman named Mara who experiences tragedy and grief. It was also about friendship, healing and restoration. There was a strong faith based element in this one. The writing style was hard for me though and I had a hard time connecting to the main character. There was quite a bit of her self talk and internal dialogue, that was written in one to two word sentences, and often sarcastic. Reading didn't feel smooth but very choppy, with so many short sentences throughout the first half of the book or so. And Maras constant sarcasm and constant quick wit made it very difficult for me to connect to the character. Rated the book a 4 because it was well written although I didn't care for the writing style, but am not sure if I'll read this author again. I prefer heavy books but not this writing style.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea what to expect, and this book was not at all what I expected. I could not put it down! It was so good, and difficult as the characters face some really hard things. In Facing the Dawn, author Cynthia Ruchti explores grief in a very real way. The readers have a close-up view of devastation & hope, fear & faith, and beautiful forever friends.

I got a kick out of the snarky and funny mostly-in-her-head comments by Mara Jacobs.

"Was there such a thing as respite care for parents? And if so, where did she sign up?"
"Sometimes a parent is called upon to express a hopeful attitude not necessarily aligned with reality."
"The adventure of loving is like riding a bike on gravel and shorts and flip-flops. Pain is inevitable."
"What kind of mental/emotionally unstable/ early onset test was this? "
"I can't know the end of my story, God. And I have to be okay with that, don't I? "

The characters are so genuine, and the author has a beautiful way of elevating them out of their grief into something better. I appreciated both the humor and the "realness" of the story. I highly recommend Facing the Dawn.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is more on the difficult side for me to review. This was a deep emotional story about the stages of grief and overcome challenges, and also about redemption and growth. I enjoyed the story and was interested to see what will happen to the characters.

The difficult side for me was the writing style. I felt more like an outsider, looking in, only seeing Mara's side of everything. This type of style is a bit of a struggle for me to connect to the characters. I prefer feeling part of the story.

This was a new to me author. I enjoyed this story and to see how the main character received healing. However, I will probably not read more by this author solely due to the writing style.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Heidi Chiavaroli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep, moving, inspiring. I will be thinking about this book for a long time to come!

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a breath of fresh air to read a book written for the Christian genre that didn’t pretend those with a deeply held faith don’t struggle when life goes sideways. The main character, Mara, wasn’t immediately likable, but I dare say, she was, for me, definitely relatable. All in all, I believe it’s a book worth picking up, especially if you might be working through your own grief. I’ll probably always remember Mara’s comment, “Grief is love with nowhere to go.”

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are no sufficient words that would describe how deeply this book touched me. In the midst of reading the story, I faced a very difficult situation. A very special and dear friend was tragically killed in a car accident a week ago. I am still in shock and haven’t processed it yet. This book is about grief and how a woman faces it head on. I prayed that among the pages God would give me words to comfort me.

The main character at times seemed almost bitter at the situation of her life. She was raising three kids alone as her husband was thousands of miles away. His work as a humanitarian was demanding but fulfilling. I can understand Mara’s frustration as she deals with a son who has chosen to deter from what is right to a place where he is slipping away from reality. It was hard to read the devastating news Mara receives about her husband. Oh how my heart broke for her as she now faces a life alone without her spouse. There are moments she is angry because her husband chose to live far away. The author guides us through Mara’s grief process one step at a time.

I absolutely adored her friend Ashlee. She reconnects with Mara at a time that only God could have ordained. Her compassion is evident as she becomes a lifeline for Mara. I liked how the author emphasizes the importance of allowing people to walk beside you as you grieve. Just when I thought the story was starting to settle down a bit, another tragedy strikes Mara. This one was extremely difficult and I cried as she faced the grim truth of a life lost so unexpectedly. I’m sure she blamed herself at times but there in the shadows was God whispering that she was not alone.

The faith element in the story is deep and shared scriptures that gives hope for a new day. I pondered over the title for quite awhile. I wanted God to show me what it meant for me as I grieve for my friend and my brother who I lost almost two years ago. I felt this stirring within me that said that though I miss those who have died, I must now face a new day. Just like Mara who found a way to get peace and close a chapter in her life, I need to do the same. I appreciate the author writing a story that digs up our hidden hurts and opens them for healing. She shows us through Mara that we can go on, we can forgive and we can find peace.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Facing the Dawn was a difficult book to read... perhaps one of the hardest I've read in a long time. Or ever. And I spent many of my high school and early adult days reading Lurlene McDaniel and Nicholas Sparks, so believe me when I say I have read a LOT of sad books. But this one was absolutely heartbreaking. I expected this to some degree based on the description, it was honestly just a lot more (and a lot more raw) than I expected. While I don't want to give anything in the story away, it should be noted that it does deal with not only extreme grief, but also suicide and miscarriage as well. Those who struggle with either or both of these topics may want to consider looking elsewhere... or at least be prepared beforehand.

As I said, this book takes such a raw look at grief that it made it pretty easy to put myself in Mara's place... which I think made it that much harder to read... it's not a place we want to picture ourselves. In the midst of the worst of it, I must say that I nearly stopped reading but after reading other reviews, I decided to push on and am glad that I did. While it was never an easy read, there were great messages of hope and friendship that added a lot to the story. I appreciated following Mara's journey through the worst of her grief to a place that while not gone, more bearable at the very least.

If you're up for an emotional journey, this story is beautifully written and certainly worth a read... but be sure to have your tissues handy. You'll need them.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christian fiction is a genre that I don't normally read but I won a copy and thought that I'd give it a try. I found it a bit too religious for me but the story was fantastic. In fact, parts of it really got to me and there were a lot of tears.

Mara is at home with her three children while her husband is on a four year assignment to Uganda to help build wells for the poorer areas with no water. She encouraged him to take the job and assured him that she could handle the home front. Now he's been gone for several years and she finds herself very resentful of his life while hers is falling apart. She isn't honest with him or with herself because she refuses to ask for help from anyone. When a tragedy happens and he is killed and then his death is followed by even more disaster in her life, she is broken and needs help. Her best forever friend, Ashley, moves to town and is her motivator to get her life back in order and to remind her that God has control of the situation and is always there to help her. The friendship is what really helps lead her back to her Christian life.

I really enjoyed this book - seeing the growth and changes in Mara and her children as well as the fantastic friendship with Ashley made it a very emotional book for me. I think it's time to read more Christian fiction.

Thanks to LibraryThing and Revell Books for a copy of this book to read and review.

[Chris Jager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cynthia Ruchti pens a story that will leave you emotionally exhausted. All in a good way. In Facing the Dawn, you wonder how you can go on with the story, but you understand that Mara is moving forward you must go with her.

Mara is a single parent only because her husband is saving the world in Uganda one well at a time. She is working hard to keep it together, but feels like she is losing her mind. (Sound familiar?) Tragedy strikes and she must learn a new way of doing things.

I love Ruchti's books. They never leave me comfortable. They make me learn about others and what they are journeying through and I am always learning something.

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so emotional, but also filled with hope!

Cynthia Ruchti writes characters and crafts stories that you cannot help but be drawn completely into the middle of.

My heart went out to Mara as she faced all these seemingly insurmountable losses, yet also was able to "face the dawn" and find redemption and the goodness of God, as well.

Such a lovely, heartwrenching and yet, heartwarming book.

I definitely enjoyed it and would recommend it!

***I received an ARC of this book thanks to the Author and Publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.***

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Lord, you’ve taken everything away from me.’

Oh goodness! This book was so painful to read. Very hard to read. It was, in fact, gut wrenching. The pain Mara experienced totally rocked me. Dealing with her husband’s death, two unruly teenagers and a hurting younger son, then something unthinkable happens, I hurt FOR her. The tears come reading this story. Cynthia Ruchti is a deft hand at writing hard stuff. But she also gives hope and blessing. Well done.

My thanks to Revell Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I received no compensation and the opinion here is my own.

[Christine Indorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never read a book that had me in tears throughout the book and still loved it at the same time. Mara husband is in Africa building wells for the next 4 years. So she is at home with a drug addict son at daughter that does about anything and an emotional son. One day the worse happens and there is no going back to "normal". She has to bury not only her husband but her youngest son. So how does she go on with her life. Is God even listening to her anymore? With the help with her forever friend and the probation officer and his father she begins life again. Did she really put God in the center or was she just going through the motions. Can she find healing and learn to walk again with her life as it is now? This book had me crying all the thru. I can't imagine losing not your spouse but your son as well. Her journey is our journey when we also lose ones we love. Starting from making the bed to going to Africa to see what her husband did for a living. With Christ love and love of those around her she starts to see new life again. *Warning this book is highly emotional and as you can read this could be hard for some to read. Take cautions and bring plenty of tissues.

[Christina Claypool · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, brilliant writing by this incredible author who has a style like none other. Only Ruchti could write a book filled with grief, and somewhat lighten the reading journey with her gift of witty humor. Still, it is not easy reading or a light topic, and it should be read with caution.
To explain, it took me quite awhile to read this book. It is filled with grief, and I have experienced a lot of grief myself in the past decade.
So for anyone in new grief or battling depression you should probably wait to read this book, until you are in a more stable place emotionally. Without spoilers, I can’t say much more, but this author remains one of my favorite writers, even if this book was challenging for me.
One of my favorite quotes from the novel, “ Jesus met a woman one time who had all the life drained out of her. Everything faded away. Her friends, church family, physical energy, every relationship, everything she once loved to do. All of it was impossible. By the time, she was likely crawling on the ground, she was so done in. Then Jesus brushed past her, but she couldn’t even call his name. All she could do was....” “...She caught the hem of his garment.”
From “Facing the Dawn”

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Facing The Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti is the most beautiful Christian tale about love and loss and hope.
Cynthia Ruchti writes with care and compassion as the reader immerses themselves in her beautiful words. Facing The Dawn is like a hug from Jesus in a book.
The reader will not be able to read this book and remain unchanged. We ‘see’ and ‘feel’ the hope and love of Jesus. A character asks ‘what is the antidote to fear?’ The answer is ‘love’. Jesus is love.
The grief is raw and palpable. “I’m doing all I can to squeeze out ‘Jesus, help!’ from time to time. No offense, but I can’t read your Word right now.” We witness a character drowning in grief. Sometimes all we can do is cling on to Jesus and rest in His presence. He understands our pain. He understands our needs. “You do understand if I don’t have it in me to sit beside people who all want to put their arms around me.” Sometimes we just need to be alone. To deal with others is just too hard. Jesus understands. The reader ‘feels’ the desperate sadness of the character.
Cynthia Ruchti is masterful with her pen as she paints the raw emotions. “Hope… stripped away by the ravenous ravens of grief.” We can empathise with the character.
A grief journey is different for everyone. “Grief is just love with no place to go.” There is no right or wrong way to grieve. There is no time limit. Grief takes as long as it takes and it meanders at will.
Within the novel we witness a beautiful friendship. It is a friendship that says I am here for you. If you push me away I will return. I will be here for you when you want me. This can be seen as a motif for God who will never leave us. “God, you’re here aren’t you? The awfulest of all the awful days.” God walks beside us whatever we face. He is waiting for us to lean on Him. “You’ll get through the hard bits if you’re leaning on the Strength-Giver.”
Sometimes we need to be like Jacob and wrestle with Jesus in our grief. In the end we will receive blessing.
There is also guilt. “I’m sorry I laughed this afternoon. It wasn’t because I’d forgotten you.” We can ‘feel’ the pain and sense the emotions held in tension. We must not feel guilty when we begin to live and love and laugh again.
Cynthia Ruchti always writes powerful works of great beauty. Facing The Dawn is incredibly powerful. The loss and pain, the hope and love are all palpable.
Although the tale is about a journey through grief, it is not a gloomy read. It is a hope-filled read. It is a love-filled read. It is a beautiful read. It is this hope and love and great beauty that remain with the reader long after the last page is read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lord, give me a faith like hers, her mind whispered. Deep in her soul, a rumble responded, I did. Step into it."

Facing the Dawn is filled with beautiful words, overwhelming emotions, and characters that could be you and me. Mara Jacob's fellings are vividly portrayed as she journeys into the world of overwhelming grief. It appears that she will drown in a sea of sorrow as she copes with her husband's unexpected death, and shortly after, another tragic loss. Thankfully, she has people who love her, and they become her lifelines in her efforts to find solid footing.

This book has exceptional characters and realistic situations but faith and hope are the keys to Facing the Dawn. Author Cynthia Ruchti has created a tale that is heart-tugging and heartbreaking, but ultimately, an encouraging and gratifying story! Ruchti shares many references to God and his Word. but she also offers meaningful and eye-openng observations.

Sacred and scared have the same letters.

"When life falls apart, God's Plan hasn't. It's still active but adds a soul-healing component."

Facing the Dawn is a hard book to read because it has all of the emotions that we associate with death. It may make you cry but it also shares a message of love and hope. It is a stunning book that will stay with me for a long time, and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.

This book was provided courtesy of Revell though Interviews and Reviews. There was no obligation for a favorable review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never read this author before and I've discovered she's quite good! I like her writing style. She knows how to bring truth forward and is not afraid to discuss tough subjects with her readers. I like her. I like honesty and this book seems as if its downright honest to the T.
Yes, it will make you cry and yes you will feel sorry for the characters but that is life.
Grief has no time limit. It should not because you will not ever get over missing that person. I have experienced losses but nothing like that.
I kept rooting for Mara. I even found myself praying for her. I had to know if and how she overcame her predicament so I kept turning the pages. I wasn't disappointed.
Little Jeremy stole my heart. He was my favorite in the family.
I think my favorite thing for this book was the author offered hope through the pages. There's always hope at the end of a long dark tunnel.
Another favorite is when God knows just when and how we need friends like Ashley and Sol.
This story will make you realize and appreciate your friends that much more. ( Believe me I sure do after I moved 895 away ).
I was all into this beautiful story. I will need to read her other books now because I'm hooked on her stories now.
Just simply fabulous writing!
Highly recommended
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Please have a box of tissues. You'll need them!

[Christine Barth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the January 2021 issue of Library Journal.

Mara Jacobs knows her name means "bitter," and she certainly feels that way as her husband serves a nonprofit in Uganda, leaving her working double shifts and struggling with their wayward teenagers on her own. Mara also means "strong," and she has no idea how much she'll need that namesake as a series of calamities rock the already beleaguered Jacobs family.

Struggling under the misconception that to ask for help is a sign of weakness, Mara is befriended by a cop-turned-homeless advocate and a childhood friend with regrets of her own. As the band of flawed humans come together, the cracks in Mara's family and in her her heart begin to heal.

VERDICT: Ruchti (As Waters Gone By) has a gift for taking characters through their grief and lifting them to a place higher than themselves. Fans of Erin Bartels and Elizabeth Musser will appreciate the characters' journey to faith that never ventures into the cliched. The message of hope in a situation that seems hopeless is especially needed now.

[CarolynB · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Excellent! Not exactly what I expected (I didn't read the blurb first), but it was so good!

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not sure even how to review this book. The subject matter was really tough and there was an extreme amount of loss in the book. But on the other hand there was so much grace and love that was displayed.

Mara is a mother of 3 children (Jeremy 12, Chelsea 18, and Dylan 19) Her husband is on a 4 year stint in Uganda creating wells for the people there. The family is in crisis in the beginning as the 2 older kids have had some problems. But then tragedies strike.

I particularly enjoyed the characters of Solomon and Ashlee. They came alongside of the family and poured life in to them. Mara is also a woman of snarkiness which was enjoyable.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Faith Gilliosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC