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.

Review of a Digital Advance Reader Copy provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis

Profanity:  None

Violence/Gore:  Munitions factory explodes and there are many references to it being intentional, many are killed and injured as a result; a character grabs another character with the intent to cause bodily harm; characters point weapons at one another.

Sex/Nudity:  It is reported that a man runs around with loose women; non-married characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subject Matter

death of family members, death of close friends, traitors

Drug/Alcohol Use

A teen reports being given an alcoholic beverage, but she does not drink it; it is mentioned that a character likes to go out drinking.