As Dawn Breaks

If you have ever read any of Kate Breslin's books, you know you will be taken on an adventurous journey. It's actually hard to believe that her books could get any better, but this one does.

In 1918 England Rose Graham is trapped into an upcoming arranged marriage by her ruthless guardian. When an explosion happens at the Chilwell factory, her best friend is killed. Presumed dead, Rose assumes Tilly Lockhard's identity, finding work in Scotland.

Captain Alex Baird is given an assignment to locate and uncover the saboteur of the explosion. Retuning to his home in Gretna, the factory there may be the next target. Alex is surprised to find Tilly, being welcomed by his family, renting his boyhood room.

This is such a great story. There is so much depth in theses characters. Rose's struggle as she tries to earn the trust of her charges in the factory. Alex's growing care for Rose, even when he is assigned to surveil her. Alex's sister Hannah is such a beautiful innocent character. Kate Breslin's excellent research of WWI, with women coming to the forefront in the war effort. What I loved most about this book is it is a fresh story. There has been too much of the same storylines lately. This one is refreshing with a new perspective. Complex, yet riveting. The mystery at the end will blow you away. A really good clean read.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

AS DAWN BREAKS by KATE BRESLIN is the gripping story of a young woman’s courage as she works, first at Chilwell shell filling factory in Nottingham, and then at the Gretna factory in Scotand, during WW1. Rose Graham, as Tilly Lockhart, finds a loving family with the Bairds and close friendship with the young girls she oversees at the Gretna factory. Although she dislikes hiding the truth from everyone, especially the handsome Captain Alex Baird, she is afraid of losing her freedom if she is forced to marry the man her uncle has chosen, and also afraid of what will happen to her young brothers if she is found out to still be alive.
Both Rose and Alex have secrets and things are definitely not as they seem. There are saboteurs to be uncovered and stories to be unravelled in order to escape an explosion at Gretna. Will the fledgling romance between Rose and Alex be able to survive once the truth comes out? Will they still be able to trust one another?
I love to see how the closeknit Baird family surround orphaned and troubled Rose with love and acceptance and how she flourishes in their home. It is also good to see how Rose finally loses her innate timidity when she “becomes” her courageous friend Tilly. She finally realizes that her courage comes from the Lord and she learns to trust that the plans He has for her life are good.
I have enjoyed every novel I have read by this author and As Dawn Breaks is no exception.. It is a beautifully written book with unforgettable characters who are realistically portrayed and who draw us in to experience what they are going through. The suspense will keep you on the edge of you chair as you wait for the promised explosion!
I cannot recommend the book highly enough. It is an inspirational WW1 romantic suspense novel with a good Christian message.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

This book is rich in portrayals of the Scottish culture during the WWI time frame. Rose and her friend Tilly work in a munitions factory. That's about all I can tell you about the story without giving spoilers, but I highly recommend this book! It is intriguing and there is a lot of action and suspense included in a sweet story of friendship and family ties and belonging. It has every element to make this historic novel a great read.

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Once again Kate Breslin dazzles readers with her attention to historical detail and memorable characters. As Dawn Breaks has all the aspects I've come to expect from one of Breslin's novels - a plot filled with heart as well as intrigue, characters that teach readers an important lesson about faith, and a writing style that seamlessly transports readers into the era of WWI and the trials and struggles men and women faced at the time.

I especially enjoyed the cameos from my two favorite characters of hers, Simon and Evelyn, and having the opportunity to see where the directions their lives took after the close of their novel!

This is such a great read, loved it from beginning to end, and wanted to continue after the last page is turned.

The author has gifted us with a story that is full of intrigue with a bit of sweet romance thrown in. Sadly, we meet greed head on, with people that have no love of anyone, including their country, and they never have enough money or power.

Sweet Rose finds a true friend in Tilly, and in the end this friend actually saves her life, and provides a way to an escape to a possible new life.

I loved spending time in Scotland, and with Biard family whom make Tilly one of their own, and don't forget the sweet little dog. Can just see those boys joy as they play with Winston!

Stay tuned Winston places a crucial part near the end. After the book ends be sure to read the insightful author's notes!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

With grateful thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest opinion.
What an amazing and inspirational book of how life was for so many woman, I totally loved the whole premise of the book and flowed quite beautifully.

The year is 1918, and Rosalind Graham is about to married to what is known as a "scunner" in the local parlance, and she can't stand the thought. Her uncle arranged the marriage to his own benefit, and the man is abusive at best. Her friend from the munitions factory where she works, Tilly, is holding a shower for her after work and sends Rose to her cottage to get cleaned up before the party. Tilly gives Rose her number badge so that no one will stop her on her way out. Once Rose is at Tilly's cottage, she hears an explosion and sees that the factory has gone, along with Tilly and her other friends. In Tilly's cottage, she finds a five pound note and a letter telling her to take advantage of making a new life away from Chilwell and her uncle and fiance. Tilly ends up in Gretna Green, Scotland, working for a munitions factory there using Tilly's name.

Alex is being sent home after injuries he suffered when his brother, Ian, crashed and died. While Alex hadn't crashed, he tried to save his brother from the burning wreckage of the plane Ian was flying. Now, Alex is being "discharged" to try to catch the Rhymer before he can blow up another munitions plant. It just so happens that the next plant on the Rhymer's list is in Gretna. He comes home to find his parents have rented out his room to Tilly/Rose and his sister, Hannah, is working at the munitions factory as well.

This is a book filled with espionage, double-dealing, secrets, and treason. It's also filled with pranks, practical jokes, and winning over the opposition. And, just to satisfy my romantic tastes, a bit of falling in love.

Kate Breslin is one of those authors who knows how to fill a book with enough twists and turns to keep the reader involved from beginning to end. Sometimes I get impatient with a book and I want to skip to the end and find out how it all plays out. I couldn't do that with this book, because there was quite a bit of unpredictability in the plot.

Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and some tatties and neeps.

Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Kate Breslin is an auto-buy author for me. You can be sure she will take you on a wild. emotional ride. One thing I appreciate about her books is their originality. Another is her obvious research and attention to historical detail. Our heroine is this tale is trying to escape a ruthless guardian an a loveless arranged marriage. When the factory she works at explodes, she is able to assume a different identity. What could go wrong? :)
When she meets a handsome captain, sparks fly, but things are not as they seem, not for Rose, and not for Captain Alex Baird. I won't ruin any more of the plot, but this is one you won't be able to put down!

This is an amazing historical fiction taking place during the Great War in 1918 England. Rose is a munitions worker facing a marriage to someone that her uncle arranged for his personal benefit, not hers. As a terrible explosion literally rocks her world at the munition factory she takes the place of her best friend who perishes in the explosion. This transfer of identities brings Rose unexpected days of fear, secrecy and a chance to leave behind the fiance that she has no desire to marry.
Her new life also brings great fear of discovery and lots of unexpected danger. She worries that she will get all tangled in the web of lies that she has had to tell.

This book was so intriguing, I couldn't put it down. Her adventures were quite thrilling as you watch to see if the goals she has will come to fruition. She hopes to rescue her brothers from an uncle who has no concern for them except in how they will profit him.

You really start to love the Baird family and how they care for one another. I can't say enough about this wonderful book. You will just want to read this and enjoy it for yourself!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Historical fiction at its finest. As Dawn Breaks by Author Kate Breslin is compelling, immersive and completely enjoyable! This WWI story has it all; secrets, romance, suspense, courage, family, all brilliantly penned by the talented Kate Breslin who is known for her impeccable research. The characters are complex, authentic, relatable, and one feels like family well before the end. As Dawn Breaks would make an excellent movie!

I highly recommend As Dawn Breaks for fans of great stories and historical fiction!

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

As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin is a unique look in the women’s Scottish World War I war effort through the lens of an ammunition factories. The plot featured some suspense, uncover people, and a new identity. Breslin does a wonderful job at showing the readers a new form of the World War I action and teaching them as they read the story. One of my favorite thing was the language. Breslin does a wonderful job at capturing their language. As I read the words, I kept hearing someone doing a Scottish accent in my head. Sometimes I laughed at myself. There is romance. What is a historical romance without it! Nothing over the top. There is a kissing scene in a light house, but nothing too racy. The writing is top notch. I love how Breslin invites her readers into the world of her stories and does not let go. She always captures my attention with her stories. I always know that I am receiving a delightful story filled with a number of characters who I hope receive a story later on. Overall, As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin is a unique, mystery-filled story with the important historical element that I truly enjoyed. As always, I, personally, can’t wait for another Breslin novel.

I received a complimentary copy of As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin from Bethany House Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Kate Breslin is an auto-buy author for me, so I was sooooooooo excited for this one!! If you haven’t read her books, they’re what I’d classify as historical romantic suspense, usually set in WWI, but she has done WWII as well. They’re fabulous and this upcoming title is no exception - in fact, I think it might just be her very best yet!!

And don’t let that absolutely stunning cover fool you, it might have a lovely historical setting, but this novel is full of suspense! The story was complex, engaging & kept me on the edge of my seat! It’s full of secret identities, bombings, arms dealers and spies on undercover missions. Um, yeah, I did mention the cover was kind of deceiving, right? 😂 But only kind of… She does also find space between all that suspense to bring that vivid, rich historical storytelling feel that the cover implies. She so vividly brings to life the world of WWI England and Scotland that you just want to stay there until the story has finished! (And maybe longer!) And the characters are fabulous!! Between Rose who’s pretending to be Tilly (for reasons you’ll just have to read it to find out), and Alex - the fighter pilot/spy - who is back at home on an undercover mission, there’s plenty of scope for complexity and character development and Breslin not only embraces it, but does so perfectly.

I cannot recommend this book enough! This little gem is the absolute perfect blend of historical and suspense and I highly recommend it to any fans of either genre.

Thanks @bethanyhousefiction and @netgalley for the ARC, I was only required to provide an honest review in return, and here you have it!!

As Dawn Breaks
by Kate Breslin
Pub Date: Nov. 2, 2021
Bethany House
Amid the Great War in 1918 England, munitions worker Rosalind Graham is desperate to escape the arranged marriage being forced on her by her ruthless guardian and instead follow her own course. When the Chilwell 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.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for the ARC. Christian fiction and Historical fiction are very popular in our library. I like to read the books before they get on our shelf.
This was a riveting book and I am glad to recommend it.
5stars

As Dawn Breaks

by Kate Breslin

Bethany House

Rated: 4

Back of the Book: “Amid the Great War in 1918 England, munitions worker Rosalind Graham is desperate to escape the arranged marriage being forced on her by her ruthless guardian and instead follow her own course. When the Chilwell 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.

RAF Captain Alex Baird is returning home to Gretna on a secret mission to uncover the saboteur suspected in the Chilwell explosion, as Gretna's factory is likely next. Fearing for his family's safety, he's also haunted by guilt after failing to protect his 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 struggles 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.”

My Thoughts: I had a hard time putting this book down. I was drawn into the time period and setting. The Scottish brogue of the characters throughout was the cherry on top. The complexities of the suspense were woven throughout the book well and kept me guessing until the very end. Now I want a sequel of maybe Hannah's journey or perhaps more about Percy.

Inspiring Thoughts: I didn’t have any thoughtful moments highlighted in this book but I did enjoy the character's growth. The relationships in this book were so important. Rose and Alex learned to show grace and love to others even when they themselves were struggling.

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review shared here.

Kate Breslin pens a story filled with vivid historical detail and realistic characters, weaving powerful themes of second chances and forgiveness into this multilayered story. When a tragic accident provides the perfect opportunity to flee an arranged marriage, Rose Graham inadvertently steps into a dangerous world of spies and espionage. I absolutely love the rich historical detail Breslin includes in his story as readers enter the world of WWI munitions factories and the dangers faced by its workers.
With just the right balance of mystery and romance, this story will keep readers engaged until the very end.

I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher and Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

As Dawn Breaks begins it just grabs you and draws you in to a fantastic adventure! Rose works at a munition factory with her friend, Tilda. She is supposed to marry Julien, whom she can't stand because he is a very mean person, but it was arranged by her uncle. Her uncle has threatened to make her two younger brothers go to an orphanage in Canada if she doesn't follow through on this marriage. She feels trapped. Then Tilly tells her she is going to give her a wedding party at her house and sends her to her cottage to prepare. Rose leaves early and gets to her cottage, then the whole munitions plant explodes. Rose soon finds that her friend perished in the explosion, and she soon decides to pretend her own death occurred, and she assumes her friends identity. She moves to Gretna Green in Scotland.and begins to work at the munitions plant there, except as an advisor. One of the girls that works for her invites her to rent her brother's room and that works fine, until her brother returns home from the war. Unknown to the family, Alex has returned home to find the man that blew up the other munitions plant, they have a list of munitions plants scheduled to be destroyed, and Gretna is next on that list. Alex also works there, and he discovers that his new friend, Tilly, is a suspect he needs to watch carefully. The real Tilly had a lot of secrets Rose knew nothing about. It's a gripping story I just didn't want to put down! Clean and very exciting, well written story! I didn't want it to end!

I really liked this book. Historical fiction is my favorite genre. I found the parts about the girls working in the munitions factory very interesting. It makes me wonder what the statistics are on if they died young from diseases caused by their work.
The storyline was excellent and kept me guessing. I will highly recommend this book to the patrons at our library.

'Lord, surely you haven't brought me this far just to fail....'

1918 England during the Great War finds Rosalind Graham working in a munitions factory and taking on a new identity when her friend dies in the factory's explosion. Rose sees a way out of a forced marriage to a despicable man and reluctantly decides to become her friend who died. She makes her way to Scotland to work in another factory, only to find herself embroiled in deadly espionage.

Breslin's attention to detail and impeccable research make this story. I have always loved history and she brings it to life here in this moment, all the while addition fictional elements that make it even better. Well done!

My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion here is 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.

—
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.

Desperation led to a daring switch and leads to intrigue during the dark times of WWI. One glimpse of the blurb as well as a fancy for the gorgeous cover led me to give As Dawn Breaks a try.


Rose desperately wants to avoid a horrid arranged marriage that her detestable guardian is pushing on her. No one will ever know that during a spectacular explosion at the munitions' factory where she works that it is Tilly Lockhart who perishes and not Rose who miraculously survives when she was supposed to be at her wedding party. Rose as Tilly goes to Gretna to take a supervisory role at that munitions factory and stays with the Baird family. That should have been the end of it save getting the workers to listen to her, but then a disturbing letter for Tilly arrives and Alex Baird comes home and is suspicious of her even while they share a connection. Her secrets and his secret mission lies between them.

Injured, Royal Air Force Captain Alex Baird is burdened by his brother's death and is sent home to recover. Alex is fearful for his family living in the shadow of the munitions' factory so he grimly accepts the mission to surveil one Tilly Lockhart who worked at the Chilwell Factory before it was sabotaged and exploded. He had already been making a connection with the lady and struggles with her on his suspect list. Dare he trust her so they can work together against the certainty of another sabotage attack and dare he trust her with his heart?


I have seen so few romances let alone romantic suspenses set during the WWI era that I all but pounced on this one. The author is new to me, but I had a feeling it was not a huge gamble to dive in. Turned out superbly because the historical backdrop, the characters, and plot all wove together nicely and pulled me in. What hard times those were and especially for women like Rose. Those factories were not exactly healthy and the gals were covered in the yellow powder by the end of shift and earned the nickname Canary Girls and then there was the explosive nature of their product. But, I also speak of a woman's lot when it came to unscrupulous legal guardians like her uncle that was forcing her to marry an abusive man so that she felt she had to pretend die just to escape. The flip side, Alex's situation was grim too, but I was somewhat more familiar with a military character though having him in an espionage role was pretty cool.


Their romance was complicated with the lies and secrets and not at the forefront much of the time, but I enjoyed how it didn't turn into high drama and they worked as a team to investigate the sabotage. I liked the tension the suspense side of the plot added, but thought the romance was developed well in its own right. They were friends and partners and had to take their time. Then they had to get past the reveals and to their true selves. Rose was in bad straights, but Alex had his struggles, too. His family was great support and Rose finds a real home with the delightful, sometimes mischievous Bairds in gorgeous Scotland.


I should point out that this is inspirational romance and it is a theme in the story, but there isn't soapboxing at the expense of the story.


All in all, this was enchanting from the first page as it pulled me into Rose's WWI era world and drew me in deeper as she was caught up in a traitor's web, espionage, and playing her role while her real self found home, happiness and love in Scotland. I definitely want to read more of the author's books and can recommend this one highly to those who enjoy sweet historical or inspirational romance.

I rec'd an eARC through Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.

Such a beautiful story. I feel like these characters are my friends and I hated to say goodbye. I loved learning about the Canary Girls and I am sad that I had never heard of these brave women and children before that supported the war effort sacrificing their health and their lives. It made me dig in for more information. I laughed and cried, It was suspenseful and charming. I loved this book and would recommend it highly.

With a setting in England and Scotland during 1918, Kate Breslin’s novel, As Dawn Breaks, is sure to capture the interest of historical fiction lovers. Breslin’s impeccable research and brilliant story telling make this a compelling and enjoyable read. The main characters, Rose Graham and Alex Baird are colorful, engaging, and easy to like, and the stellar cast of supporting characters add dimension and intrigue. Rose is courageous and hard-working, and when she gets a chance to escape a forced marriage with an abusive man, she’s determined to take it and make her own way in the world, even though it involves pretending to be someone else. Alex is charged with discovering who is behind the explosions at ammunition plants and stopping them before another one takes place. I enjoyed the relationship that developed between Rose and Alex and seeing it grow and change.

With plenty of history, suspense, intrigue, and a dash of romance, this story has something for everyone. The addition of lots of twists and turns will keep you guessing. Inspirational elements of faith, forgiveness of self and others, and the value of honesty and integrity are woven seamlessly into the story and give it additional depth and meaning.
“His faith had taught him God forgives all; yet until he could forgive himself, he’d never see the dawn break upon his soul.”

I would recommend this to those readers who enjoy clean and inspirational historical fiction that is well-written and absorbing. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishing. All opinions are my own.

This is my first book by Kate Breslin, and I am quite favorably impressed! One thing that I love in historical fiction is learning something new about real history, and this book has plenty of that. Keeps your attention,and keeps you guessing until the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance e-book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

As Dawn Breaks is another fabulous book by Kate Breslin. It is giving me yet another reason why she is among my favorite authors. I always eagerly await for her new releases and this one worth definitely worth the wait. I enjoyed going back in time to the United Kingdom during the first world war. I adored Rose / Tilly right from the start. There is a little suspense and mystery involved that kept me even more intrigued and wanted to keep reading until I read the last page.
As Dawn Breaks is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. As always, I will be looking for more Kate Breslin’s releases in the future. I loved this one.

I received a paperback copy of As Dawn Breaks from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Rose Graham desperately needs to escape the life she has been thrown into so when she gets the chance, she takes it. With brothers to protect and a future to work out, she flees to Gretna, Scotland where she begins work as a munitions supervisor for a pack of “canary girls” that test her strength and character. Providence dictates that she meet the Baird family and falls in love with their sweet family after renting their vacant room.

Alex Baird has been asked by his best friend to sniff out the possible saboteur that has been bombing munitions plants. In fact, the next suspected target is where his sister works and near his family home so he can not fail to protect them especially since he has failed his family in the past.

Written with a sprinkling of Scots dialect, including words like “dinna”, “ken” and “braw”, Breslin brings the reader into the WW1 era and sits you down into the intrigue of misplaced power, secrets, disguise, and veiled identities. She weaves an intricate plot of cat and mouse that will keep you wondering who can be trusted and how Rose could possibly fulfill her dream of breaking out of the life she was forced into. All the while, Breslin gives you a background filled with a sense of true family, community and what is still right with the world.

This book is appropriate for teens and older. There are no overly descriptive intimate scenes and no bad language.

I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge with no expectation of a positive review.

A page-turner! I held my breath every time Rose almost gets caught either for hiding her identity or for being a suspect for an explosion that the real Tilly was tied into. Very intense with some light humor. I enjoyed the banter between her and Alex and was left swooning with their sparks whenever I wasn't on edge with all the secrecy going on!

I felt truly transported back in time to WWI, with Rose, as she worked in a munitions factory in Scotland. The author did a great job of creating characters that I cared about. The way Rose fit into the Baird family, who she was boarding with, was so sweet. It made the fact that she was hiding her true identity difficult for her.

I liked the way Rose and Alex started out a bit at odds and then began to respect each other and grow into a friendship and then more. However, both had secrets and those secrets were bubbling right under the surface.

The espionage angle in As Dawn Breaks was so well written. The author did a great job of creating a setting where it was hard to know how and when the saboteur would strike. That added a lot of good tension. There were some great twists and turns in this story! I really enjoyed this book.

(4.5 stars)

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

Magnificent story!
The book is like an intricate embroidery: the heartbreak and suffering during the war, past regrets and a burden of guilt, a desire of freedom, forgiveness, hope and love! A must read!
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.

When one reads a book by Kate Breslin, one can rest assured that it will be a book that is full of historical detail, compelling characters, inspirational themes, and a sweet romance. As Dawn Breaks did not disappoint. Stories set during WWI pique my interest. There is so much I don't know about the era and reading about the munitions factories and the women, often called the Canary girls, who worked in such dangerous conditions there was so interesting. Rose is an enchanting character, courageous to take a chance on a new life, despite the danger and the sorrow of losing her family. Alex, too, is a strong character, a man bent on a mission to find a traitor, and yet, how he loves his family. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Rose and Alex change and grow throughout the story despite the secrets and sorrows they each had. Breslin is a talented author who seemingly effortlessly threads intrigue, suspense, and romance together to bring readers a captivating historical fiction story, a story of family, friends, and forgiveness in her newest release, As Dawn Breaks.
I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

Life is growing increasingly unbearable for Rose. When tragedy strikes and she is presumed dead, she sees her chance to start over in a new place. I admired Rose's gumption. She was willing to sacrifice everything to care for her loved ones but she wasn't afraid to try to find a better path when the opportunity arose. She stood up for herself and others under her and was a winsome character.
I also liked Alex. Even though he was disconcerted by Rose's presence in his family home, he grows to appreciate her.

Breslin is a master at historical fiction. It was fascinating learning about the canary girls and what was involved in making munitions during WWI. It was informative without ever dragging. It was full of intrigue and a couple big twists. I enjoyed it alot.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

If you were given the chance to change the outcome of your life by assuming someone else’s identity, would you take that chance?

That is the choice Rose Graham must make when her best friend, Tilly Lockhart, dies in an explosion at the Chilwell munitions factory. By taking her friend’s identity she would be leaving behind a merciless uncle and an arranged marriage to a cruel man. However, life is not always what it seems when you step into someone else’s shoes, a web of lies, espionage and munition dealers. This story takes place during the Great War in 1918 England and Scotland. The author expertly weaves history and fiction. It was a time when women accepted the government’s cry for help by joining the war effort at home, many times at the cost of their own health, safety, and lives.

Breslin masterfully brings WWI to life in this new release. I've read my fair share of WWI books this year (semi-unintentionally, haha, as I've been on a contemporary kick of late), and "As Dawn Breaks" really brings it to new life for me. I learned so much about munitions, factory life during that era, and some of the more local challenges the Scots experienced during the Great War. Breslin is quickly becoming my go-to author for the time period, much like Sarah Sundin is for WWII.

I particularly loved the "new identity" and "secret mission" components and how the two quickly became interwoven. I wasn't entirely sure how it all would pan out, and Breslin did a great job at resolving each bit. Fantastic!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

As Dawn Breaks is another beautifully written historical love story set during the Great War.  

Rosalind Graham is being forced to marry a man she doesn’t love, by an uncle who doesn’t seem to love her.  When the Chilwell factory explodes, Rose is believed to be among those counted dead.  She sees this as her chance of escaping a life she doesn’t want and forging ahead under the assumed identity of her friend, Tilly Lockhart.  Through unforeseen circumstances Rose finds herself renting a room from the Baird family in Gretna.  The closer she grows to this family, the harder it is to keep up her deception, but she can’t afford to reveal the truth. 

RAF Captain Alex Baird is on a secret mission back at his boyhood home in Gretna, Scotland.  Alex feels like he has failed his family once before and he can’t let that happen again.  As he spends time with “Tilly” his affections for her grow, but then he’s called to keep surveillance on her.  His affections and his new assignment are warring against each other.

I love that the setting takes place in Scotland.  While a large part of the story takes place at the munitions factory, there are lots of details that bring the beautiful landscape of Scotland to light, and just the right amount of the Scottish burr is added to make it feel truly authentic, yet remaining understandable.  Who doesn’t love a leading male with an accent? 

Alex and Rose are so similar in how they guard themselves and how they are both secretly longing for ore.  That first kiss….sigh.   As Dawn Breaks is rich with fascinating historical facts, intrigue, suspense, romance, and the perfect amount of faith woven throughout….everything I’ve come to love and expect from a Kate Breslin book.  BUT it also had some major surprises that I was not expecting.  You are going to want to read this one and see what I’m talking about!

Kate Breslin became a favorite author several years ago, when I got my hands on Not by Sight. Once I saw As Drawn Breaks, I knew this was a must read and can boldly state that it did not disappoint. I was engrossed in this novel from beginning to end. In standard Kate Breslin fashion, the quality of writing was excellent. Readers will be transported to WWI era, not in battle scenes, but in a munitions factory located in Scotland. The storyline was unique as I knew pretty much nothing about such facilities at that time, beyond the fact that many women joined the workforce to support their country in its efforts. I even took some time researching "canary girls" and learned quite a bit. The characters in this plot will not leave readers disappointed, as each was complex and unique. The plot, in my opinion, is most deserving of rave reviews. I thought it developed so, so well. Readers should note that this book is not fast paced. It was never meant to be. This is a slow-burn (and beautiful) romance with an intricate, unpredictable mystery to solve. And the mystery was exceptional. While I thought I had figured out who the villain was about 2/3 of the way in, this story ended up being so much more complex than anticipated. I challenge readers to do the same and see how much you can solve by the end of this book! Truly, I cannot recommend this novel enough. It was an excellent read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are entirely my own.

As with all of Ms. Breslin's work, this book is rich in historical detail with realistic characters struggling with not only the effects of WWI but some self-imposed difficulties.

I absolutely loved Rose. I felt her struggles. I was not fond of Alex at all at the beginning. His treatment of Rose had me at times want to go through the book and smack him.

The beauty of this book is how Ms. Breslin weaves together horrible circumstances brought about by war with themes of second chances and forgiveness throughout this multilayered story.

This story is a must-read for all historical romantic suspense readers. I highly recommend it!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Breslin is a brilliant storyteller being able to juggle all the intricacies of historical detail as she drafts a beautiful story of the hardship of a small Scottish town that supports the war effort with a significant munitions factory. She takes us into the Baird family home who have suffered much with the loss of one of their sons in the war and a father who is incapacitated from a work injury. Their teenage daughter, Hannah, is employed at the local Gretna munitions factory doing dangerous work. This is what needs to be done to make ends meet during WWI.

But it is Rose Graham whose story it is. She's terrified of an impending arranged marriage and when an opportunity comes up to turn her life upside down and escape this predicament she grabs it. And heads north to Scotland and the small town of Gretna. On gaining employment at the local munitions factory, Rose takes up an offer to board with the Baird family. But Rose is full of secrets and is continually torn between her deception and staying sufficiently anonymous that her uncle doesn't discover her to haul her back to the arranged marriage.

Enter Alex Baird. The strapping eldest son of the family Rose is boarding with. He unexpectedly returns home from the war as he's in pursuit of a killer who has targeted the Gretna munitions factory for his next dastardly act. And Alex, undercover and working with Scotland Yard, needs to bring this mystery killer to justice before he can commit the act.

Breslin keeps the reader on their toes. I was surprised how many twists and turns there were that I wasn't expecting. Her level of detail and precision in keeping everything organised is brilliant especially with all the deception going on amongst the major combatants in the story.

And of course there's a romance that takes a long time to get going which I appreciated as it was had more substance and meaning when it finally was revealed.

One detail that troubled me for much of the first half of the story was Rose's belief she was being led by God while living a life of deceit. Yes, circumstances conspired to assist her to believe such but that doesn't necessarily mean God has orchestrated it for the purposes intended. How does one live a life consistent with one's faith when presented with a future of unwanted hardship of which one has little control? It's challenging to reflect on and it reminded me of Rehab who misled the leaders of Jericho so the spies she housed could make an escape.

Overall, this is a thoroughly absorbing story that I enjoyed immensely.

I was fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from the publisher via NetGalley with no expectation of a positive review.

This historical fiction from Kate Breslin was truly a treat!
Filled with all the cool ingredients that will make a person mesmerized for the whole evening/afternoon. It made the time fly.
I didn't want the book to end.
I learned something new from this book. I had never heard of the Canary girls so I very much enjoyed reading about them.
Rose made me smile more than once throughout this story. She was my favorite character!
Katie Breslin is an awesome writer! I really appreciate how much research goes into a wonderful story like this! I also feel that when she writes that her love of writing shows throughout her many books. Especially this one! This will be on my list of favorites for this year!
And what a beautiful book cover! I love it!

Oh Wow! What a magnificent story!! I couldn’t put the book down! And it’s not a short story! I had to rob sleep some hours, because I was captivated with Rose and Alex’s story! What a touching story, full of everything I love: sweet romance, intrigue, danger, secret identity, impossible obstacles, deep and compelling characters!
Rosalind Graham’s life is becoming impossible, and now she’s desperate after an arranged marriage is imposed on her by her ruthless uncle and guardian. Working at the Chillwell Factory where they make munitions to aid the war, Rose believes she is doing something for her Country while it’s her escape from the strained life at her uncle’s house. She hasn’t run away because of her two younger brothers. But her real chance at an escape comes when the Factory explodes, killing hundreds of workers, most unidentified, and everyone believing she perished. She seizes the opportunity and leaves her homeland, assuming a new identity and travels to Gretna, Scotland under her beloved friend identity, Miss Tilly Lockhart, in a supervisory position at the Gretna Munition Factory, and then renting a room with the friendly Baird family, with the idea to earn money to go back to get her brothers as soon as she can. But when RAF Captain Alex Baird returns home to Gretna after his brother’s tragic death -which he still can’t overcome the guilt because he wasn’t able to save him-, and on a secret mission to uncover the saboteur of the Chillwell explosion, fearing Gretna’s factory is next. He doesn’t expect to find a beautiful lady occupying his childhood room. A woman, who has befriended his family, especially his sister Hannah. Hesitant at first, he gradually can’t resist her unaffected charms and the love she has for his family makes him bond with her deeper, until he receives orders to watch her out. Can Rose be hiding something? Meanwhile, Rose struggles to gain the girls under her supervision respect. Her honesty and kindness will start to warm them to her. But Alex is suspicious and suddenly her secret identity becomes too dangerous. Can Alex protect her from the danger stalking her? Can they survive whoever is targeting her and put their past behind to get a chance at love and a future together?
This was a fantastic story that kept me up reading until late in the night! I loved the Scottish setting and historical details about the Great War era. It was so realistic and so well researched. I loved how many things were based on true events, and it impacted me how the women worked and endangered their lives to aid the war. I really felt I was part of the story, and felt Rose and Alex’s struggles as if they were my own. I rooted for their Happily Ever After, which seemed always so fragile and distant. The plot is so engaging, with twists and turns that keep you wondering what will happen next. I loved the mystery and suspense. But best of all I loved the main characters, Rose and Alex. Rose’s strong determination, selflessness and kind heart. Alex’s protectiveness, his courage and vulnerability at the same time. He was a man of one piece, and I ached with his grief over his brother, as I ached with Rose’s grief over her best friend. I loved Hannah and Tilly as side characters. I loved the sweet and deep romance, so endearing and deep, their dialogues. And the faith inspiring message about trusting God amidst the pain and evil, to bring out goodness in spite of everything. There were some unforgettable scenes that I don’t want to spoil, but that I still think about.
This is a book that will stay with me and I definitely will reread more than once. I highly recommend it to Historical Lovers! It’s one of my favorite novels now without a doubt!
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

This will be one of my favorite books I read this year. I loved that this took place during WWl and did not concentrate on the Spanish Flu. I did not know that so many women worked in the munitions factories at this time. I had heard of Canary Girls before but I did not really know what this stood for. I loved the characters even though they all had secrets that had to come out. I loved the history about these munitions factories and the possible bombings. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House and the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Rosalind Graham will do anything to escape the marriage her uncle arranged for her, but she sees no hope. Even operating a crane in a munitions factory in England is preferable to marrying a man who treats her roughly and sneers at her. Orphaned at 14, Rose and her brothers live at the mercy of their guardian and uncle—a cruel and deceitful man who has threatened to send Rose’s little brothers overseas if she doesn’t comply. And her fiancé already has plans to commit Rose to an asylum.

When a tragic explosion provides a means of escape, Rose takes it. Although she hates the fabrications, she knows she must remain firm in her goal of saving money and escaping to Nova Scotia with her siblings.

RAF Captain Alex Baird returns home to Gretna, Scotland on assignment from Whitehall. Tasked with identifying and stopping Thomas Rhymer, a mysterious saboteur, Alex has less than a month to uncover a plot to blow up another valuable munition factory. An event that would endanger his family.

While not happy with having to leave active service against the enemy, Alex knows his country can’t win the Great War without munitions. He doesn’t expect to find a woman in his bed when he arrives late at night, though.

Although Rose and Alex have a rough start to their friendship, they soon become friends. But will the secrets they harbor tear them apart and ultimately cause Alex to fail at his task?

Why I Loved this Book

Modern readers often forget how different the lives of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers were. We forget how men had absolute control over their wives, and how little agency women had to make decisions for themselves and their children. Breslin helps readers understand the era surrounding World War I in this inspirational novel filled with intrigue, red herrings, and self-revelation.

Some of the characters from High as the Heavens make an appearance in As Breaks the Dawn, but readers don’t need to read the other book. Fans of Roseanne M. White will enjoy this book.

Murder, mystery, sabotage. Set towards the end of WW1, England to Scotland. Rose is being forced to marry an abusive man, by her abusive Uncle. She's allowed to work at the munitions factory, and with the help of her friend she is given a chance to live life differently, after her friend is killed in the explosion where she works. She goes to Scotland near where she grew up before she lost her parents, getting a job at another munitions factory. Pretending to be someone else isn't always easy for her, and little by little she realizes that there was a lot about her friend that she never knew. She becomes close to the family she's staying with, so the lies get more difficult. And she's always looking over her shoulder that she wont be found out.
Alex is sent to secretly search out and prevent another explosion at the munitions plant near his family home. He's following the intelligence they have learned, some of the facts hidden and twisted. There are many twists and turns to this story. Tugs on the heartstrings for the characters and the tension that builds make it a real page turner. It's hard to put down! It's interesting to learn more about the munitions factories and what the women workers went through. The explosion and other events are based on real life.
I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. #AsDawnBreaks #NetGalley.

I so enjoyed reading Kate Breslin's new novel, As Dawn Breaks. Ms. Breslin explored an aspect of WWI that I knew next to nothing about. I'd heard of the Canary Girls, but didn't know anything much about their role in the war. I was enthralled learning about the lives and dangers of the young women who worked in munitions factories--and in such an interesting setting as Scotland. Throw in a whole lot of espionage, sabotage, a false identity, a woman in hiding from a nasty suitor, and the moment-by-moment chance that her whole world might blow up--literally... Well, that made for a page-turning read.

The suspense kept me riveted, the history was informative, and the romance was very sweet. Everything in the story read with great plausibility, and I am amazed at the research that the author put into learning about the making of munitions as well as the roles of the military and Scotland Yard during the war.

If you love WWI romance, you should definitely add Kate Breslin's new read to your list.

"Maw tells us that even a wee bit of help makes the grander things possible."

I've always loved Kate Breslin's historical fiction but this newest has become by favorite. What an incredible novel with swiftly moving plot, fascinating historical tidbits during WWI, wonderful characters, and gasp-inducing suspense and twists! The author has always had some element of mystery and suspense in her books but this one really hits the jackpot with intrigue and espionage during the Great War. You won't be able to put this book down once you start; fans of historical fiction will absolutely adore this book.

I loved Rose and Alex - their determination, loyalty, compassion, and strength of character, The voices of the antagonists were featured throughout the storyline as well, which made them less pure evil and more misguided, broken, and lost even in their evil ways and dealings. Learning about the munitions factory life and work during WWI was eye-opening and the backdrop of Scotland was beautiful. This book also has cameo appearances from Simon and Eve from High as the Heavens but you don't need to have read that book to fully absorb this book.

It's another great novel from Kate Breslin that will enthrall you. I received the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

As Dawn Breaks is a wonderfully written book rich in historical details that happened in Europe during World War I. I especially enjoyed learning about women who worked in munitions factories during that time. And how critical their role was in helping the war effort. The book is filled with mystery, espionage and love. I enjoyed all the characters and the romance that budded even during the extremely tense and uncertain time. This author is one or my favorites.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

Kate Breslin is definitely a favorite author! She has such a talent for writing suspenseful, romantic, inspirational stories that immediately pull the reader in and this book is no exception. It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year. Her meaningful well written characters are unforgettable. She also weaves an inspirational message of reinvention, forgiveness, home, and family that is both natural and touching. The historical aspects of this story are so interesting, meticulously researched, and add a special touch to this amazing story. I loved learning about the “Canary girls” and the difficult dangerous job they had.

As Dawn Breaks transports the reader to WWI Scotland. Rose Graham has the dangerous job of working in the Chilwell munitions factory. When a tragic explosion occurs killing her best friend, it offers her a way out of an unwanted arranged marriage and the chance to start over with a new identity. She flees to Gretna, Scotland and begins working in their munitions factory under her new assumed name of Tilly Lockhart. There she meets Hannah Baird, a young girl who takes to her instantly and offers her home to Rose.

After his brother’s horrific death, RF Capt. Alex Baird agrees to travel to his family home and take up a secret assignment in the munitions factory to find the saboteur and prevent another bombing. Arriving at his family home late in the evening, he finds the lovely Rose asleep in his room. He’s at once annoyed and intrigued by this intruder. As he gets to know Rose and shares some of his deepest secrets, he can’t help falling for her. However, time is running out and the threat of another bombing looms. Could Rose be hiding something that will put his family and the whole factory in danger?

I loved Rose and Alex! The romance and chemistry between the two was amazing. It was easy to sympathize with Rose. She’s kind, thoughtful, and is just beginning to find herself again. Not only is she hiding a secret that if exposed will put her and her brothers in danger, but her initial treatment at the factory by the other girls is rough. The suspense of if and when Rose’s secret might be revealed kept me on edge and turning the pages.

Alex is definitely a swoon worthy character and I loved his Scottish brogue! Though he is a little gruff at first, it’s endearing how much he cares for his family and Rose, and would do anything to protect them. His fun teasing manner definitely puts him as a top contender for romantic heroes. I also loved the Baird family. They immediately envelop Rose into their loving caring family and give her the sense of home that she has been missing for years.

With plenty of action, suspense, intrigue, romance, wonderful themes of redemption and forgiveness, home and family, and an ending that will have your heart pounding, this book is definitely one you don’t want to miss! I received an advanced copy of this book from the author through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and freely given. I was not required to provide a positive review.

As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin is an eye opening and intense delve into the world of World War I in England. It is focused on the life of a young woman who works in a munitions factory. History buffs and World War I enthusiast will appreciate this story. There are a great many details about life at that time which the author imparts as part of everyday life for the characters.

The story takes on all sorts of different emotional challenges as it follows the characters through their lives. The author is skilled at weaving everything together into one big emotional story. Readers will be laughing one minute and near tears the next. Nail biting and swooning might also be involved.

Each page seems to develop in more depth the story of the characters. This was an enjoyable read, but also a bit unsettling. Historical romance readers will find this satisfying for sure.

Nothing remains hidden from God’s all-seeing eye.

What a wealth of information the author must have gone through in order to bring this incredible historical book to us, the readers. I must admit there was much that I learned reading about these munitions factories and the Canary Girls. That alone would have made this time well spent. Add in the intrigue, suspense, courage and danger and you have a story you will not set aside until finished!

Rosalind Graham finds herself at a crossroads and must make a choice. Will this lead to danger or freedom? Captain Alex Baird is medically discharged from his position as a fighter pilot and returns to his home with an undercover assignment. Clandestine characters, mistaken identities and sabotage make his job most difficult. Along with that is the guilt he carries with him every day.

This extraordinary book was received through Bethany House Publishers, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. These impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

I'd known of the women who worked in munitions factories for the war effort in WWII, but I hadn't realized how many women had in WWI as well, or what dangerous jobs they held--where the atmosphere was so physically explosive that one couldn't even have metal bra hooks or silk stockings, lest a spark from the static electricity blow the factory. And I can't imagine that so much exposure to TNT that one turned yellow was good for long term health. It was a fascinating bit of history!

As with any time one is lying about one's identity, there's the expectation that it will blow up worse than a munitions factory when one's secrets are revealed, and such is the case for Rose. I loved how she grew through the story, but I can see why Alex takes such great affront at her lies--she does look highly suspicious regarding the Chilwell explosion, and when there's a threat of sabotage where she's currently employed . . . it would be all too easy to come to the wrong conclusions. I greatly enjoyed some Mission Impossible-esque elements, though as is the case with any master of disguise plot, my head was left spinning trying to figure out who and what I has missed throughout the story. It was a pleasure to catch some cameos of characters from a previous book (High as the Heavens).

Thank you Bethany House and NeGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

I've only read one other story by Kate Breslin and what impressed me the most was how much historical details she includes. I'm not a huge fan of WW1 or WW2 fiction, but Breslin brings this era to life for me in very interesting ways. And I learn some things in the process! For instance, the munitions workers were called “canary girls”, aptly named because the TNT they work with every day turns their skin yellow. Along with other devastating health conditions these women were facing because of all the toxic chemicals they work closely with. It saddened me that there were no safety measures taken to protect them and many died as a result. Not to mention, the constant threat of explosion if one wrong move was made. I'm glad I didn't live then or be forced to work in the factories while our boys went to war! All that to say, this story taught me lessons I probably learned in school many years ago.

As Dawn Breaks was a fascinating look at history in the making. It was also full of intrigue, spies, undercover work, secret identities, danger and a bit of suspense. The story really picked up around the half-way point for me when tensions ramped up. Rose & Alex must trust each other enough to try to ferret out the person responsible for the factory explosion back in Chilwell & prevent it from happening in Gretna where they currently work. Oh, did I forget to mention that Scotland Yard is involved too? All this culminated in a page-turning, can't-wait-to-see-what-happens-next, riveting tale. There's also a romance brewing that helped tame the breathtaking conclusion to this stunning historical written by one of the best authors. She also includes generous sprinkles of faith, and strong family and friendship bonds.

I especially recommend this to historical fiction lovers who enjoy the WW1 era and fans of Sarah Sundin.

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House on behalf of the author and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. *

A wartime (WWI) romance, filled with suspense and set mostly in Scotland. Orphaned Rose Graham finds an unexpected opportunity to escape an arranged marriage by taking on the identity of a friend who died in an explosion at the munitions factory where they worked. Alex Baird, suffering grief and guilt over the senseless death of his younger brother, is recalled from his RAF duties in France to help Scotland Yard find the culprit responsible for sabotage in Britain's munitions factories. Neither Rose nor Alex is sure who they can trust, or even whether they trust themselves. The story has good tension as the search for the saboteur takes some unexpected twists and turns. Recommended!

As Dawn Breaks was a Christian historical fiction that told place during WW1. In 1915 Great Britain suffered a lack ammunition, so women began to work in the factories. These women were called munitionettes and filled the shell casings.
The entire novel is centered around these events which also involved spies, burden of loss, guilt and forgiveness. And of course my favorite part l, the romance. I only wish they’d found each other sooner. I do recommend this if you like Christian historical romance involving a war story.
Thanks Bethany House via NetGalley.

Life for women during the Great War found women working in dangerous factories throughout Europe as they did their part to win the war. Espionage and spies was a real threat as shown in this well crafted story. Loved the character Rose/Tilly, her strength and courage as the story developed. Enjoyed the author's note.