Imagine something you’ve been waiting for years to begin. For me, it’s the release of the dramatized audiobook podcast form of my fantasy novel, What Shines with the Dawn.
I began writing this book back in 2012 and finished the first draft by 2014. Through ups and downs, the book underwent many revisions until finally concluding at what it is today.
The message of this story is focused on hope amidst tragedy; new beginnings from darkest days; and a place of comfort for the brokenhearted. This was the theme I wanted to convey from the first day of writing this book over ten years ago.
It was to be a world that people suffering with heartache could retreat into, forget their pain and suffering for a time, get lost in the characters of the story, and return to face their own dragons.
Back in 2012 when I began writing the first words of this series, I never in a million years could have predicted the horrific events that would take place against Israel on October 7, 2023.
I first went to Israel on a tour back in 2008 with half of my family, had the privilege to return in 2009 to learn Hebrew and volunteer in Jerusalem, and years later, I returned to do more volunteer work in 2017. This place is close to me—a piece of my heart always stays every time I leave and waits until I return.
When I saw what took place to the country I loved so much, I was shocked, disgusted, and emotional across all levels. All I wanted to do was give every Israeli a hug and let them know they were not alone. Little did I know that chance would be offered to me.
I was given the opportunity to come back to The Land for a solidarity tour, and when God opened all the doors, I stepped through with joy at the chance.
Currently, I sit in the north in Galilee as I begin writing this; and the day this blog, the Prologue, and Chapter 1 will be released, we will be near the Gaza border visiting one of the kibbutzim that was attacked by Hamas.
I’ll be open with you: I’m struck with anger and grief at all that has happened to this beloved country of mine and the innocent people who dwell in it. Yet, I’m greatly inspired at their resilience. These are not a people who will go quietly into the night, nor are they ones to bend over backwards to terrorists. And despite all they went through, I’m moved at how much they desire to show love to their neighbor.
My heart’s desire is that this story inspires this great nation to continue fighting against the darkness, to know that it’s not over, and that hope always shines with the dawn.
My hope is that all who sink into this story—who are broken inside and stuck in what seems to be an impossible darkness to escape—know you are not alone. No matter how tall evil may be towering over you, all darkness has a weakness and you can have the weapon to overcome it.
G.K. Chesterton once wrote,
“Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.”
To Israel, and to all who believe the darkness cannot be overcome, always remember: your dragons can be beaten. I hope this series inspires you to do just that and causes you to always remember what shines with the dawn.
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