You will definitely need a box of tissues for this story. This is a story that is really emotional. I knew going in, not only would this be sad but also tragic in parts.

First off, I enjoy author Ruchti's writing and how she can pull you into the character's heart and mind. Mara Jacobs has been doing single motherhood with her three children for three years, while her husband, Liam, is helping needy families in Africa get the water they need. What Liam is doing is good, I just felt that the cost to his family, which was great, outweighed all the good. It always bothers me when someone sacrifices the family good for something outside no matter how well intentioned. I felt Liam was in the wrong and he should have waited until his kids were grown and Mara could join him on this adventure.

I completely understood where Mara came from with her feelings of resentment and abandonment especially as she watched each of her kids spiral out of control. But I also felt she should have been more honest with Liam and should have asked him to wait. No matter his dreams, they could have been realized later in life and in a greater way. Then the unthinkable happens.

This story became harder to read after that, and I admit I had to skip over parts as emotionally I was just not ready to deal with what I knew was coming. This is not an easy read. The author deals with some tough issues that felt so very real to me, and like I said she writes in such a way I can feel the heart of the character.

I enjoy author Ruchti's stories, this one was just a little too tragic for me and more than I wanted to read. It is a story full of hope as well and Mara's walk through her bitter trials is a testament that no one should give up, and I am glad that Mara was able to see some good by the end, but this mama and wife's heart was sad.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Facing the Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti is one of the best books I’ve ever read. I have never read a story that deals with grief as realistically and as beautifully as this one does. Personally, I believe this book needs to be required reading for all humans. Facing the Dawn has a great storyline, one that I flew through. The characters are the BEST. They are dynamic and very relatable. And, they are incredibly endearing. My heart broke for Mara, but it also really hurt for Mara’s children and her forever friend, Ashlee. And you know why? Because we ALL experience pain. We ALL walk through some really low valleys that hurt us. Pain is a universal human experience and we all deal with it differently, and Ruchti does an excellent job illustrating these points. My favorite relationship in this novel is between Mara and Ashlee. I love that Mara calls it her forever friendship and I LOVE how Ruchti shows the depth of relationship that comes with a forever friendship. Forever friendships are a true gift from God. If you’ve ever been blessed with a forever friend in your life then you know how precious such a gift is, and Mara and Ashlee’s friendship is a great picture of this blessing. The themes discussed in this novel are truly thought-provoking and timely. I really believe this book would make a fabulous book club read as it could be talked about in great length. Facing the Dawn is a wonderful read I just cannot recommend enough.

There is a moment in the novel where Mara states, “We’ll walk through it together. I didn’t think I needed another reminder that God is my only hope, and [Ashlee’s]. But it’s becoming my default thought now, rather than my last resort.” This is a brilliant Truth! The first time trauma happens in your life it feels like a bomb has exploded. You feel like you’ve been shattered into a million pieces and you are not sure how you will gather those pieces back together again. It’s super easy in this state to feel like you are all alone, like God has abandoned you. This is, of course, so far from the truth, but in trauma feelings can be very deceptive. This is why we absolutely need a strong, sure faith in God. He must be our foundation or we very well could walk away from God. As Mara puts it, God is our only hope. What I appreciate so much about this quote though is the word “default.” Many of you who read my blog know that the last three years have been the hardest of my life. I have lost loved ones — my big brother, my dad, and my forever friend — and my daughter was diagnosed with seizures we still can’t get under control. What I have had to do for self-preservation’s sake is make my relationship with God my default, #1 relationship. He is my immediate go-to now. He is my true forever friend. Am I super glad the last three years have been devastating?! Not even a little, but I am grateful that the valleys I’ve been forced to walk though have allowed my relationship with God to grow as strong as it is today. I love God more now than ever before. He is my default. He is my one true hope. Mara getting to this understanding is my most favorite moment in this wonderfully poignant story.

Facing the Dawn is a story that truly will stick with me long after the final pages have been read and this review has been posted. I loved everything about this cathartic read and highly, highly recommend it!

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Revell, via Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Facing the Dawn was a hard story to read, but as always, Cynthia Ruchti pulled off an amazing story. Mara's husband has been working in Africa for a four year job to bring fresh water. While he's living his dream of helping others, she is burdened with struggling kids and a lack of money in America. Tragedy strikes and she has to learn how to carry on to survive.
I have to admit that I was blindsided by this storyline a couple of times, but had to see how Mara's life continues after tragedy. Through Mara's story I was reminded of how strong friendships and faith can pull one out of anything. Her friend Ashlee especially had me questioning if I am helping friends in crisis as much as I could be. I would recommend this book to a book club, many great deeper conversations can come from it.
I received a complimentary copy of Facing the Dawn through NetGalley, but all opinions are my own.

Cynthia Ruchti's newest contemporary Christian novel tackles disappointment, grief, and the painful road to finding a new way to live. Mara's sure she's reached the low point of parenting after handling the household, two rebellious teens and a third child all alone for three years while her husband works to bring wells to parts of Africa. Mental and spiritual fatigue have settled in, followed by blame and resentment. Then the bottom of her life completely falls out and Mara finds herself engulfed in grief, her already faltering faith too weak to support her or her children. It will be the role that her "forever" childhood friend and a homeless stranger play that will help Mara take the daily steps needed to heal and face the new dawn of her life. I've been a fan of Ruchti's writings for several years and know her stories always offer hope. In fact, she's known as the "hemmed in hope" aulthor. Quickly I was enmeshed in Mara's story and when double tragedy struck, I wasn't sure Ruchti could pull off a hopeful, realistic story. But I was wrong, and I know I should not have doubted her writing because really she is the messenger for God's story and there's always hope there. Two biblical truths came to mind as I followed Mara's healing. First, a reminder that even in the Old Testament we are called to care for the widows and children. I've always interpreted that to mean be charitable -- care for their physical and monetary needs. And don't we think in modern times that things like insurance policies and women in the job force basically let us off the hook in those areas? But caring for the "widow" (bereaved, those in pain) means so much more as shown by Mara's friend Ashlee's actions. Truly, there is a "heart" need that God calls us to fill for others. It goes way beyond the funeral casserole, condolence note or visit. The second is a lesson for the grief-stricken or wounded, which I can't really explain without it being a bit of a spoiler. Let's just say a forefinger and a thumb brought about a miracle once, and it can again and again.

I encourage book clubs to select this title. It is definitely a book that calls for discussion and sharing. I started reading FACING THE DAWN just the day after my "forever" childhood friend called me for a chat. Neither of us is facing grief over a loved one right now, but like most older people this pandemic has brought about its own kind of grief. Her choice to call me (rather than the more common habit of me calling her) meant so much and that actions kept coming to my mind as I read Ruchti's words. When a fiction story can seamlessly meld into your real life, you know the author is telling truth. I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are mine.

This book!!!
Warning though there are some triggers with issues of accidental suicide and mentions of drug use.
This book is hard and definitely not an easy read but oh so worth it. I know there were moments when I put the book aside to just think, to hold my tears at bay for just a little while.
This is my first book by this author and I can honestly say I was blown away. The writing was deep, honest and oh so real but there's hope it doesn't all end in despair.
I can't remember when I read a book like this but I enjoyed it all.
This is wonderful women's fiction that will have you picking up the tissues, leaving you with thoughts of the story even after you're done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine.

Cynthia Ruchti is an incredible writer. She reaches deep into your soul and sometimes it is too much to handle. But this story was one that could have really happened. And in some form, we’ve all experienced shock, loss and grief so the feelings here are familiar.
This is an emotional read. I could not read it quickly as I do most books because the intensity was too much. But this book does have its humor too and the beautiful journey of a family as they make their way to life again with the help of God and some forever friends. I recommend it.
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

‘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.

"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.

Ruchti has crafted an engaging novel that takes readers along the winding path of grief. She is a word smith and I like the humor and witty dialogue and great scene construction. The narrative soon turns dark yet remains a compelling read. We experience the ache of grief and the attempts to carry on and the unexpected setbacks. I like the inclusion of a secondary issue of thinking our actions have caused harm and the accompanying feelings of guilt.

Potential readers need to understand that this novel is an excursion through grief. For those who have been successful in traversing the painful path of the death of a loved one, this novel will reaffirm the process of healing and the value of supportive friends. For those who still feel the painful emotions of loss, especially those of the loss of a spouse or child, this book may trigger more painful emotions or it may inspire a bold step in addressing continuing grief.

Ruchti's novel is a good one for the reader unencumbered with emotions of loss or the reader ready to boldly move forward in the grief journey.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

I don't think I've ever read a book as beautifully expressive and tender with grief as Facing the Dawn. Cynthia Ruchti does not shy away from the hard parts of grief, yet she writes with grace and emotion that draws you deep into the story. Whether you have faced the type of grief Mara experiences or not, you'll be better for reading this book. It showcases the immense power of the human heart to both grieve and keep going, even when we think we cannot handle the sight of another day. I felt this book deeply and read it slowly, savoring each word as it wound its way through the grief journey and into the light of dawn. Each page was a discovery and though Mara is mired in grief, there is hope in each day. We all need an Ashlee in our lives, but even if we don't have a forever friend like her, we have a forever Father who is always looking out for us. I have a feeling I'll be rereading this book. And reading it yet again, discovering something new each time. I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

What a painful bittersweet story.
Hope, forgiveness, love, and more.
This was a book I knew I had to read. And yet, the more I heard about it, I almost shied away from it...I gathered that it would not be an easy read. And I was right!
Facing the Dawn was a very difficult story. Mara was in such a difficult place in life.
First off, she's had to give up her husband for how long already, because he had a dream to help bring water to the poor in Uganda. So, Mara is at home with their three teens, trying to be strong, trying to fill in the gap. And failing miserably. Two out of her three were seemingly nothing but trouble. She just wasn't sure how much more she could take.
And, just when Mara thought things couldn't get worse, it does. Life takes on a whole different meaning. She's struggling, trying to make sense of things.
And then another unthinkable thing happens.
And Mara is left with nowhere to turn, except to God.
She learns anew what a blessing friends can be when her forever friend Ashlee shows up just when she needs her most.
I love how Ms. Ruchti makes faith such an integral part of this story. Shows it as the unshakeable foundation that we all can have, if we are willing to lean on God.
This is a story that will have you wiping your eyes and looking around you to treasure all those little things you may have been taking for granted around you.
I don't think I'd recommend this story for young readers. The depth of pain and grief is quite intense. I found it both a blessing and a challenge to my own life, and as such, I do recommend it to anyone that is looking for a story that will lead them to a deeper walk with God.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Facing the Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti is a Christian contemporary women's fiction story. The story focus on Mara who's husband Liam is working in Africa to provide clean water for the people there. The story takes place over a year in the family's life in which Mara loses Liam to a tragic accident and her youngest shortly after.
This is a very well written story with bits of humor showing up in unexpected places. The story is so well written that at times it is hard to remember it is fiction. The story also is a very emotional story that will tug at the reader's heart. I enjoyed reading this story and enjoyed seeing how the two older children turned their lives around after the death of family members. I really hope there are more books coming to allow reader to see how the family grows after the year of mourning.
That being said, I really did not like the parents as they appear very self absorbed with what they wanted, not taking into consideration how it would affect the children. Liam went to work for a company that took him away from his family for four years with only phone calls and emails. His home and family suffered greatly, yet Mara convinced him not to come and and repairs were not made to the home. Mara worked part time and found time to make unwanted school treats, yet she couldn't find time to do laundry.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

. I love the way the author connected me to the life and feelings of the main character, Mara.
Her feelings of abandonment as her husband worked with a humanitarian organization thousands of miles away were raw, and real, lending weight to the story when things change in ways she never expected.
Her children and friends were well written giving a clear picture of their character and solidifying their places in Mara’s life.
The faith aspect of the book is spot on. We all have struggles and doubts, but it’s what the Lord did in and through Mara that painted a clear picture of his hand in each person’s life.
This was a great book that evoked emotional responses in me as I walked through the grief process with Mara.
I was given a copy courtesy of Baker Publishing House through NetGalley and this is an honest review.

This book is going to make you cry and question why things happen the way they do. This will help you to rebuild your faith or make it stronger. This is a wonderful way to look at how people process their grief differently. It was hard to read this story in places because I wanted to cry so hard. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Facing the Dawn is a very well written emotional book. Have your tissues ready. Great plot and character dynamics. I recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.

Facing the Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti
Facing the Dawn is a very moving story. Taking the reader on an emotional roller coaster, this book tackles tough, personal events beyond the protagonist's control. Life can be messy and painful as Cynthia so perfectly illustrates in this book. There is, however, hope for the ability to move forward and “Face the Dawn" with help from friends, family and most importantly, our Lord and Savior. From the book: “Lord, give me a faith like hers, her mind whispered. Deep in her soul, a rumble responded, I did. Step into it.” Finding the courage to let go and trust God is a struggle and an important aspect of this story. The characters in this book have become real and dear to me. I would highly recommend this book! Christian Fiction fans and everyone will learn from this story. You might want to have your tissues handy. This book was provided through Celebrate Lit, the publisher and author for my review. The opinions expressed are my own thoughts. #NetGalley #FacingtheDawn

This book is for women that feel loss of hope, the world is caving in and those that are losing faith that God is by your side. Mara is a mom, whose husband is in another part of the world doing mission work to help widows and orphans, and she is left home alone to take care of the 3 kids and all the family needs that occur. She is struggling to keep it all together and just feels she is losing the battle fast. She has hope, but when tragedy strikes life is turned upside down. How can she keep her family together? Will she lose all hope and faith?

Women should read this book and understand that they are not alone. Things happen in life that are out of our control, even depression is out of our control until we change our course in life and know that you have to take each day, one day at a time. This book would be a good women's book club read or women's church group to read and be able to discuss issues in the book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

I must admit. This is not my usual “genre”. The title piqued my curiosity and I had to read it. I wanted to know why the book was titled “Facing The Dawn”.

The themes in this book are deep and realistic.

Grief has a way of shutting light but no matter what, there is always a Dawn.

Mara, the main character in the plot faced a lot. I am not going to give out spoilers but this book is deep with a capital letter “D”.

Thanks to awesome friends like Ashlee and Sol. They are characters in this book. They made me to appreciate the friends in my life.

The fact that this book has an essential part of its plot in an African country kept me glued. I live in Nigeria so I was interested in what happened at Uganda, the country mentioned in this book.

Cynthia Ruchti writes well. You need to have a strong mind because she writes tough themes that makes you to know that real things happen outside fiction.

This is a Christian fiction book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. Opinions expressed in this review are mine.

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 am a huge fan of Cynthia’s Ruchti’s books and was excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release, Facing the Dawn. I was far from being disappointed. It may be among my favorites of her work I have read to date. It was so so good. Watching Mara trying to keep it all together, made me feel connected to her. I could relate to her heartache and grief. I wanted to keep reading to see how she would be able to get passed it and be able to heal.

I am giving Facing the Dawn a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading true to life novels that will inspire them and touch their soul. It was exactly what I needed to read at this moment.

I received Facing the Dawn from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.