Facing the Dawn

This is the first novel I have read by Cynthia Ruchti. Facing the Dawn is unlike any book I have read lately. Lately I have been reading a lot of suspense and romantic Christian fiction novels but this one falls into a category all its own. If I had to put this book into a category, then it might be called real life is messy and not always easy fiction. The author does an exceptional job of handling difficult situations in this novel; however, some of these difficult situations may trigger some people when reading this novel. You may find yourself feeling the emotions that the main character, Mara Jacobs, is feeling and losing yourself in the story. I do believe that if you can handle reading about some of the harder events that can occur in life then you will appreciate this novel. While it is not my typical type of read, it is really well done. I would recommend this book to the others. Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.

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.***

This is a story that made me plummet to the depths of despair along with the main character Mara. It also led me up the mountain of hope along with her and I stood on the top with her surveying all that she had overcome by the time I reached the end of the book. What an excellent character study with a well-developed plot! I really adored the character of Ashlee who was determined to help Mara be an overcomer. I also liked her neighbor Sol, a man who just quietly pitched in and helped where needed. The book was so well-written that I felt like I was in the scenes and the characters became real people to me. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it will definitely not be the last. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a book that will ultimately make them feel more hopeful in the world. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, but all opinions expressed are my own.