I enjoy learning things in historical fiction. In this book, we learn about munition factories and munitionettes. Munitionettes were women who worked in munition factories with hazardous chemicals on a daily basis. The book opens in 1918 in Nottingham, England. Rose Graham is working her final day as she is to be married the next day. It is an arranged marriage that Rose isn't happy about. Her friend Tilly sends her out of the building before herself and Rose escapes the explosion. Rose realizes that she can escape with a new identity as she will be listed among the dead. She goes to Scotland and works in a plant there. The next element added is undercover work to stop sabotage. So many things are combined so well in this book; friendship, sorrow, suspense, a chance to start over, and growth. I like to read multiple books at the same time, but once started reading this one, it was all I wanted to read. Read it!!!

*Warnings*
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You’ll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which may mean some spoilers, so watch out.

Stars: 4

Synopsis: During the Great War, a young munitions worker arrives in Gretna, Scotland, bearing the name of Tilly Lockheart. What the family who take in Tilly, including their auldest son, a discharged RAF captain, don’t know is that there’s more to Tilly than meets the eye. And what Rose Graham, the woman behind the name, hasn’t an inkling of, is the immense responsibility that she’s taken on by claiming to be her deceased best friend. In fact, she may even find the weight of an entire war upon her shoulders.

Favorite Quote: “I've fallen in love with you. Tilly or Rose, it matters not. You're the same lass to me, either way.”


First things first, let’s all agree that any novel set in Scotland is automatically a great book.

We’re agreed?

Good. Moving on.

No, I’m serious. The vibrancy of the setting and the lovely Scottish accents made this novel, and if nothing else, Kate Breslin captured a bit of the Scots spirit in her latest release, As Dawn Breaks.

She also captured a bit of the hardworking, sacrificial spirits of the women during WWI, particularly munitions workers like Rose, Tilly, and Hannah, as well as the deception and politics of war.

One of my favorite things of this novel is how she wove all of that in. From the accent into Alex’s narrative (artfully done, by the way) to the intrigue and suspense. All of her novels thus far have had this perfect blend of the everyday life during a war—including the surface perception of what went on—and the espionage and political games behind the scenes. She also weaves in sweet romance and subtle themes that come together for a lovely story!

I will be honest (y’all know I’m always painfully honest), there were some elements I didn’t enjoy. I’d like to get them out of the way first thing, if you don’t mind.

• Alex. I really don’t want to hate on the main man, but to me Alex was a little too cynical and bitter for me to connect with, and as shallow as it sounds, it wasn’t the most romantic either. I think, had we had time to dive deeper into his character and have more interaction between him and his family, he would’ve been a fabulous hero. But because of a lack of depth (at least, a perceived lack of depth), he didn’t really reach his full potential.

• Hannah. I’m sorry, y’all, but every moment with her was pure botheration. I’m sixteen years old, with a sister who’s fourteen and friends who are fifteen. Believe me when I tell you that most teenage girls in the twenty-first century don’t act as immature as she did—let alone girls in the early 1900s. She acted more like a twelve-year-old from the modern day, and not only was that jarring, it also just drove me slap crazy, because no one I know at that age (nor myself) would act like she did.

• The deception. I know, I know, it’s a plot machination and without Rose telling a couple lies, we wouldn’t have had a book. I totally understand that. But what I don’t understand was how Breslin just let Rose off the hook. She never received any of the consequences for her actions, and to me it seemed like “working for the government” was all the justification she needed. On top of that, there was never any mention of God’s thoughts on lying (it’s a sin, in case you were wondering); instead, Rose reflects several times on how God seemed to be planning all of it out for her. Yes, God helps and guides His children. Yes, He provides for them. But, no, He doesn’t condone their sin, regardless of how much good they do, nor does He guide them toward committing it. Rather, He offers a way out of temptation (SCRIPTURE REFERENCE NEEDED).

• Plus, on a Chauvinist Grace™ side note (gotta love those, amirite?), Rose made some feminist comments that, to me, didn’t jive with her respective, demure personality. The whole “I stood up against a bully and became a superhero for all women” was just...outrageous. Unless you destroyed all traces of the male species, you did not save all women across the planet from sexism. It’s quite obvious that anyone can be a bully, regardless of their gender, by the way Colleen and the other girls torture Rose. But that’s apparently not the same as a man making a few snide comments. Anyway, yeah. For a different character, I might let it slide, but for Rose it just seemed out of place.

• And this is where I don’t make a big deal out of how this was yet another escaping-an-arranged-marriage story, because if I did we’d be here all day. Seriously, though. It’s getting old. Can we please come up with a new plot device? One that’s more accurately portrayed? Thank you.

Well, that takes care of that! *dusts hands* Now, apart from all that mumbo-jumbo, I must commend Breslin on dethroning the Lady of Assumptions (the name change is official, people). The plot twists and curveballs she threw at me...I didn’t see a single one coming! This novel was anything but predictable!

Speaking of, can I please make a big deal about seeing Simon, Eve, and of course Marcus again? (Please don’t ask how that has anything to do with plot twists…) Seriously, I just loved seeing them again, and I’m sorry, but if this woman doesn’t give Marcus a book soon, I’ll have to have a talk with her. I’ve been in love with the guy since Day One, and y’all, he needs a story. Marcus Weatherford needs a story.

Nuff said.

So maybe the reoccurring characters were my favorites (they were), and maybe Rose wasn’t perfect. Although that may just be the case (it is), I have to admit that I adored Rose’s sweet disposition and her love and respect for the Bairds. What a refreshment after all the snarky, rude heroines permeating the book world! And, yes, Mr. and Mrs. Baird were precious.

So was the gentle romance. Even though Alex wasn’t a prime candidate for a love story in my mind, there have been worse heroes. Like, way worse heroes. And I think that once he got over his distaste for Rose (the first time, at least), he became quite the sweet, caring love interest and older brother, and I craved more time between him and Rose.

I also loved the faith elements. I do think the deception part was off, but otherwise, I’m grateful that Breslin hasn’t fallen prey to the dilution of Christian fiction! This novel wasn’t preachy by a long shot, but it certainly didn’t ignore God. Rose prayed and relied on Him, even if she didn’t always consult Him like she ought, which was greatly appreciated.

What? The souls of all people matter—even fictional ones.

Long story short, As Dawn Breaks wasn’t perfect, no, but it was sweet, subtle, suspenseful, and all-around lovely. Kate Breslin always delivers a well-rounded novel full of intrigue and romance, and she doesn’t disappoint this time! She even threw in some Scottish accents, which is worth fifty stars in and of itself!


Disclaimer: A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was a good book by Kate Breslin. I have never read a book by her before so I was nice to read something by her. I loved the story and loved the characters. I loved the history she shared and thought this was very well written. I will definitely read more books by her.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

This is the first Kate Breslin book I have read and it will not be the last. I have already logged on to my library's website and put all of her books on my TBR.
Set during World War I, this book is a historical fiction novel loosely set on the Canary Girls, the munitionettes, who worked in the munitions factor in Chilwell and Gretna, and who would turn yellow from the chemicals and acids they were exposed to. It's a story of courage because these girls worked with dangerous chemicals all day long. A stray spark could cause explosions and death or just the chemicals could cause burns and other injuries. And yet, for many, it was a sign of loyalty to the cause of the war or as a way to provide for their families while the men were off fighting.
This is a story of loyalty and treason, of war and love, of deception and eventual truth. It was one of those stories where the end surprised you. In a lot of fiction stories, you can figure out who the bad guys are long before the hero or heroine do, but in this case, it all came together in a couple of pages and was very surprising to me. I had not seen it coming and the ending was so convoluted in deception and truth and lies and misperception that it takes a careful reading to figure out everything. I am not sure I totally figured it all out.
It was a really good story and I look forward to reading more of Kate's work. I received this book from Bethany House via NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review.

In this novel, Kate Breslin takes us to Scotland during the first World War. While both the time and place are largely unfamiliar to me, I enjoyed the immersion in both with this fascinating story involving complex characters who have everything to lose.

This story invites us into the difficult and dangerous work of munitions factories. Not only did the workers face danger from the material they were handling, but their important work was the target for sabotage and spycraft. I loved the details that drew me in, and the descriptions of the effects on their physical bodies that these women endured because they wanted to “do their bit.”

There are many twists and turns in this tale, most of which stem from assumed identities, both for noble and nefarious purposes. The reader is kept in constant suspense about what will be revealed and when, as well as how it will be received by those who learn it.

This is a wonderful novel that illustrates a time in history when many people were willing to sacrifice for the greater good, whether through service in the military or a dangerous civilian job. There is also lots of sacrifice for those we love, perhaps by working an extra job, or enduring unthinkable conditions to protect others at our own expense. It’s inspiring, especially in today’s uncertainty. The cause may be different, but it’s a good reminder that love is precious, and tomorrow is not guaranteed. I highly recommend this well-written novel for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher, but was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

I didn't want this story to end. These charming characters have made their way into my imagination and into my heart and I wanted their story to go on! I loved the many unexpected twists and turns in the story. I found myself on more than once occasion calling out a warning, if only the dear characters could have heard me! I also found the relationship between Rose and Alex most tender and sweet. I loved watching these two discover each other and grow in their friendship and increasing affection for each other.
For me, this story ticked all the boxes.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I am not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

This was a great historical fiction book with a sweet romance. I haven't read a lot of WWI books, but I love the era and it was fun to learn bits and pieces about aviation then. This was an intriguing story that had a lot of character development. There was a bit of mystery and a pretty huge surprise with some twists along the way. Great book!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Oh, what tangled webs we weave . . .
Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2021
As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin is full of tension, danger, espionage, sabotage, and romance. The story is set in England and Scotland during WW1, The Great War. Rosalind Graham's free space is a munitions factory, where is works, but soon she will be sentenced to an arranged marriage to an abusive, arrogant man. An explosion at the factory kills Rosa's best friend, Tilly Lockhart, but gives Rosa the opportunity to escape. She flees to Scotland assuming Tilly's identity, but can she really flee from Uncle and Julian?

Captain Alex Baird is "discharged" from the RAF to be assigned to the munitions factory in Gretna, Scotland, his hometown. He has secrets and guilt of his own. Can he find the saboteur before this factory is bombed and kills his sister?

In addition to good story line and characters, the author did extensive research for this story. There two just two small things that I would have liked. There were so many characters, some with similar names, that it would have been helpful to have a list of characters and descriptions at the beginning. Also Scottish words were often used. That added reality and charm, and most could be understood by context, but a glossary or clear explanation would have been good.

I definite recommend reading this book and give it 5 stars.

I was given an ARC copy for NetGalley, but the opinions are my own.

Illness in the form of a sinus infection hit me hard when I was supposed to be reviewing & promoting author Kate Breslin's most recent novel, As Dawn Breaks. So just in time for Christmas gift giving, I'm sharing about this quality inspirational historical fiction book. As Dawn Breaks has everything I've come to expect from a Kate Breslin book: well-drawn characters fighting for right, immersive historical details, suspense, adventure, romance, and a spiritual theme that unfolds naturally to provide hope & depth in the story. Check out all of Kate Breslin's books. You won't be sorry!

This was such a unique and interesting story. Set in Scotland. I never have thought about the effects of a munitions plant during that time. How dangerous it was working there. It was mostly run by women. They were risking their lives too. This fictional tale centers around that and a young woman who’s been abused by her uncle. There are many facets to it, spies, handsome pilots, unscrupulous pilots, arms dealers. Excellent story. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.

I enjoyed this book enough to finish it, but to be honest, it just didn’t grab me. I read several other reviewers thoughts, but I just couldn’t rave about this one. It was well-written and I enjoyed the historical elements of it.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review. 3-1/2 stars.

'Rose suddenly realized that she'd needed to become someone else in order to find herself.'

This is the captivating story of two people facing immense challenges during the Great War. It begins in England in March 1918, and progresses through the next few months, as heroine Rosalind Graham leaves England to assume a new identity in Scotland. It is there that she meets RAF Captain Alex Baird and his family, discovers her strengths and weaknesses, and embarks on the greatest adventure of all...beginning to believe in herself and learning to trust in others!

As Dawn Breaks is a riveting drama that is filled with deep secrets, exciting adventure, and an abundance of historical detail. Author Kate Breslin shares even more facts in her acknowledgement page, and it's apparent that she devoted a lot of time researching this story. I've read several books set during the WWI era, but I wasn't familiar with a munitions factory or the Canary girls who worked there. Canary girls, so named because of their yellowed skin and bleached hair that were the result of working with some of the acids used in making the ammunition. I also enjoyed Scotland as the setting and I loved the powerful faith message that is such a big part of the plot. Rosalind had grown up with hurts, disappointments, and unloving parents, so living with a loving, faith-filled family gave her a new insight into the importance of believing in, and trusting in, God. This is wonderful historical fiction and I recommend it to all who enjoy Christian romance.

'His faith had taught him that God forgives all, yet until he could forgive himself, he'd never see the dawn break upon his soul.'

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House. There was no obligation for a positive review and these are my own thoughts.

As Dawn Breaks is an enthralling WWI-era romance from author Kate Breslin. With a setting spanning England and Scotland on the “homefront”, spies and potential sabotage encircle the activities of Alex and Rose as they face secrets and their consequences in many ways. Readers of Breslin’s previous stories will recognize a few key secondary characters of this one, namely Simon and Eve from (a FAV!) High as the Heavens.

The romance in this story is one full of anticipation and a tentative friendship worth the wait. Threads of forgiveness and belonging wind through its progress with an impeccably researched backdrop. Rose is a heroine facing challenges on many fronts, and I love seeing her grow in confidence and bravery — especially when her choice to keep certain secrets complicates her situation further. Alex is an exemplary hero, both in his role in the war and in his tenderness for his family and, eventually, for Rose. He faces lessons in mercy and forgiveness and with Rose’s help, sees his own worth in a different light.

Breslin has tangled QUITE the complicated tale of spies and subterfuge in this story. I am once again impressed with her skill in balancing suspense, real-life events, and a worth-the-wait relationship thread. I was guessing and making note of breadcrumbs along the way, but I was still majorly surprised with the twists and big reveal near the end.

Just a quick tangent: I am SO EXCITED to hear Breslin’s next novel will feature Marcus (Alex and Simon’s MI5 boss) as the next hero!

Thank you to the publisher, Bethany House, for the review copy. This is my honest review.

As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin was a fabulous book! Kate does a fabulous job of painting word pictures not only of the gorgeous Scottish countryside but also the harsh landscape of the munitions factories of WWI. She showcases life in a Scottish family home and has researched the cultural foods of the time. I was so intrigued that I made the Scottish tattie Scones and must say they were quite good. Rose/ Tilly and Alex were both honorable people hiding a secret from each other and everyone else. I love the story. So brew up a pot of Scottish breakfast tea to have with scones and jam, then settle in for a fabulous read.

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. all thoughts are my own.

Fabulous:
What a marvelous book! It is one of the best WWI stories I've read and here I thought this author's previous books were good.
The pacing was perfect and I loved how the mystery remained fresh and exciting all the way along. Both Rose and Alex had their secrets and I enjoyed witnessing their journey and seeing their personal growth.
The Scottish setting was delightful and the authors use of brogue felt natural and comfortable even for us Sassenachs! It was also really interesting learning about the manufacturing of munitions during the first world war and especially the role that women played in what were extremely unsafe working conditions.
If you are looking for an intriguing, inspirational and uplifting novel then look no further; this one is all that and more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

As Dawn Breaks is a World War 1 romance by Kate Breslin. Rosalind Graham and Alex Baird are holding secrets for a variety of reasons. As secrets do, they build and morph until everything comes to the surface. Whether it will cost lives or a chance at happily ever after is not known until the very end.

I love Rose’s character. She is made of sturdy stuff to be able to make it through all she did. And Alex might seem the strong, silent, brooding type, but I loved how evident and how deep his emotions run. How loyal he is. I also enjoyed all the details about working in a munitions factory. Wow! Safety and working conditions have come a long ways since then. And seeing what the women were willing to face for the variety of reasons they chose to, broke my heart and simultaneously made me very proud of them.

As Dawn Breaks has a slow build, even with it’s dramatic beginning and intense ending, however, I encourage you to ride it out because the story is worth it. If you love World War 1 historical romances with a side of suspense, definitely give As Dawn Breaks a read. I loved it.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

As Dawn Breaks
by Kate Breslin
Pub Date 02 Nov 2021
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance




I am reviewing a copy of As Dawn Breaks through Bethany House Publisher and Netgalley:







Rosalind Graham is desperate to escape the arranged marriage she is being forced on her by her ruthless guardian and instead follow her own course, Amidst the Great War in England where she is working as a munitions worker. After the Chillwell factory explodes, killing hundreds of unidentified workers, Rose realizes the world believes she perished in the disaster. Seizing the chance to escape, she risks all and assumes a new identity, taking a supervisory position in Gretna, Scotland, as Miss Tilly Lockhart.








Alex Baird is an RAF captain whose returning home to Gretna on a secret mission to uncover the saboteur suspected in the Chilwell explosion, as Gretna's factory is likely next. Afraid for his families safety, he also finds himself haunted by the guilt he feels for not being able to protect his little brother. Alex is surprised to discover a young woman, Miss Lockhart, renting his boyhood room, but the two eventually bond over their mutual affection for his family--until Alex receives orders to surveil her.





Rose squirms beneath Alex's scrutiny while she is struggling to gain her workers' respect. But when her deception turns to danger, she and Alex must find a way to put their painful pasts behind them and together try to safeguard the future.



I give As Dawn Breaks five out of five stars!




Happy Reading!

I love Kate Breslin’s writing style and voice. She creates lively, believable characters, wonderful settings, and delivers powerful stories with heart-changing messages.

As Dawn Breaks takes place in WWI Scotland and deals with defeat, recovery, endings, new beginnings, forgiveness, romance, and the importance of family. It focuses on Rosalind Graham (Rose) who finds work at a munitions plant. I find this period of history fascinating and I’m in awe of the women who became factory workers and delved into the war effort. Especially the ‘Canary Girls’ who dealt with dangerous chemicals that turned their skin yellow, putting their lives in danger for a bigger cause. I put myself in their place and wonder how I would’ve handled life in those days.

I connected to Rose and Alex with ease. I love how Alex felt a pull toward Rose but knew something was off. Afterall, she wasn’t who she claimed to be. I adored how Rose melded in with the Baird family. These characters have so many layers and I felt great anticipation with their dangerous investigation, and of course their slow-build romance kept me turning pages.

Having visited Scotland, I feel as if I’ve been transported there again. The amount of research Ms. Breslin did is evident. There is a wealth of historical detail that makes this story convincing and enough heart to fill every single page. As Dawn Breaks is a wonderful title, the cover is stunning, and the story is riveting. It belongs on my keeper shelf along with Breslin’s previous books.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. My review was not influenced.

I have read all of this author's books and will continue to do so as she is one of my absolute favorite Christian fiction historical writers.
She gives absolute attention to details and her research is impeccable.
Set during the Great War in England this book kept me reading, it was so hard to put down. I love learning from what I read and had never heard of "Canary Girls" before but this is what munitions workers are called as the repeated exposure to TNT turns the skin and hair yellow. These forgotten heroines had a very dangerous job and risked it all to supply ammunition to the front line. That danger came a calling on the night of the factory explosion. What follows is an unexpected way out of the life Rose was expected to live and another's identity is taken for a new start at life. Things are working out very well and no one is the wiser....... until they don't! Tension is kept up throughout the book in this high-stakes gamble on danger and what happens when things don't go according to plan.
Risk taking is at an all time high in this intriguing book of courage, strength,importance of family,suspense and espionage.
This is the author's best book yet! Do not miss this one!

Pub Date 02 Nov 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

As the Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin is an intriguing story that includes a couple of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I really liked both of the main characters and the secondary characters really added to the story.

I loved how Rose and Alex’s relationship developed throughout the story. It seemed real and believable. I also really enjoyed Rose’s relationship with Alex’s family, especially his sister!

I did feel like the story was a bit slow in a spot or two, especially in the beginning as the story was being set up. Alex and Rose did not meet until a quarter of the way through the book, but once they met, the story picked up and held my interest.

If you’re looking for an intriguing story set during WWI with characters that are likable and easy to root for, this may be the story for you!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.