Rooted in Sunrise

by Beth Dotson Brown

"A loving coming-of-age story for women in mid-life. Brava!" -Adriana Trigiani, Author of The Good Left Undone

". . . captures the true meaning of resilience-something so many women strive to know in the depths of their inner-self." -Sister Robbie Pentecost, OSF former Executive Director of the New Opportunity School for Women

Ava Winston likes her life of routine in Lexington, Kentucky. Each day, she goes to the place she's worked for twenty years, then returns home. On Sundays, she has dinner with her daughter, Juniper. It's a little boring, but as Ava nears fifty-five, she deserves a bit of ease.

Then a tornado blows it away. Ava is safe in the basement, but when she emerges, only one corner of her home stands. Rather than crumbling under the loss, she feels a load lifted. Maybe something beyond the familiar is calling to her.

Ava seizes the opportunity to find the owner of a suitcase that landed on her lawn during the storm. Meanwhile, Juniper urges her to rebuild, Ava's employer doesn't want her to quit, and her ex-husband invites her back into his life. Ava must be courageous if she's to assist two friends suffering in the tornado's aftermath and balance what's best for herself and for the people she loves.

Rooted in Sunrise is a story of learning to change and discovering what is most important. 

234 pages, Hardcover

Published September 17, 2024

About the author

Beth Dotson Brown's debut novel, Rooted in Sunrise, was published in 2024. Beth is an award-winning feature writer, short story author, essayist and debut novelist. She is the author of Yes! I Am Catholic and contributor to A Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors, Scenes from the Common Wealth, and The Bandana Book. Heartland Plays published her collection of one-act plays, Mothers, Daughters and the Spaces in Between. Her short stories have been published in literary magazines and aired on the BBC World Service Short Story Programme. Beth earned her journalism degree at Ball State University. Her writing has given her opportunities to visit with a king in Ghana, listen to the dreams of mothers in Guatemala and make friends with the monarchs in Kentucky. Besides writing, she also works with nonprofit organizations and mentors writers. Beth is a member of the Author’s Guild and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. She lives in a small Kentucky town where she enjoys family, friends and cooking from the goodness of the garden.

Reviews

[Angela Correll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooted in Sunrise is a beautifully written book full of hope for new seasons of life and a celebration of the bonds between women, including sisters, cousin, mothers, daughters, and friendships.

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: ROOTED IN SUNRISE
AUTHOR: BETH DOTSON BROWN
PUB DATE: 09.17.2024

Rooted in Sunrise by Beth Dotson Brown is a book that could not have come at a better time for me. The recent southern California fires in Eaton Canyon has left some of my relatives in disarray, losing their homes they've had for generations. Similarly, Ava the main character has just suffered a loss from the tornado that hit her hometown in Lexington, Kentucky. All the life she knows and the comfort of her everyday routine has quickly ended, and the life she once knew is no longer.

I love a good story about resilience and coming-of-age, even in midlife. This is certainly a beautifully told story about new beginnings, friendships, family, and most importantly, the hope for the future.

I really enjoyed this read!

[Joan Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful read! Reminiscent of Jan Karon’s Mitford novels, this lovely debut novel by Beth Dotson Brown, showcases Lexington, Kentucky, Indianapolis, and the Dominican. Her characters are well-drawn and admirable in facing adversity and trauma. I was fortunate to get ahold of an advance copy, and am glad, because now I can encourage others to sample Ms Dotson Brown’s uplifting writing. I left feeling that anything is achievable at any stage of life, even the second act. Is there a series in the works? I hope so!

[Luna Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooted in Sunrise by Beth Dotson Brown is a quietly powerful and deeply affirming novel that celebrates resilience, reinvention, and the courage to embrace change in midlife. With warmth and emotional honesty, Brown tells a story that feels both intimate and universal, especially for women standing at the crossroads between what has been and what might still be possible.

Ava Winston is a beautifully drawn protagonist. Approaching fifty-five, she has settled into a life of predictability in Lexington, Kentucky, steady work, familiar routines, and weekly dinners with her daughter. When a tornado literally tears her home apart, the disaster becomes an unexpected catalyst rather than an ending. Brown handles this turning point with grace, showing how loss can sometimes feel like release, opening space for long-suppressed longings and self-discovery.

The suitcase that lands in Ava’s yard is a lovely narrative device, symbolizing connection, curiosity, and the pull toward something beyond the familiar. As Ava navigates pressure from loved ones to rebuild her old life, alongside invitations to return to past relationships, she must decide what truly matters and what she is finally ready to let go.

Brown’s prose is gentle yet purposeful, allowing emotional moments to unfold naturally without melodrama. The themes of friendship, independence, and personal growth are woven seamlessly into the story, making Ava’s journey feel authentic and earned. Rooted in Sunrise is a tender coming-of-age story for midlife, reminding readers that it is never too late to start again, listen to your inner voice, and step into a life that feels fully your own.

[Tammy Snead · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨ Book Tour ✨

Rooted In Sunrise
by Beth Dotson Brown

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 @𝘴𝘶𝘻𝘺𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 #𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘳!

The story follows a woman whose life is turned upside down when a devastating tornado destroys her home and shakes her sense of stability. With everything she thought she knew about her future now in question, she embarks on a journey to rebuild—not just her home, but her purpose and identity.

The main character’s struggles are both relatable and deeply moving, as she faces moments of doubt, anger, and confusion. But alongside those challenges come moments of growth, unexpected kindness, and a rekindled connection to nature and community.

This book is perfect if you enjoy emotional character-driven stories with a message of hope.

Happy Wednesday!

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the charming story of Ava, a woman who decides to start over after a tornado destroys her home.

I love stories that show perseverance and courage after tragedy, and with quiet strength, the author does just that. Ava must decide whether to rebuild her home or take this as an opportunity to explore new paths she might never have explored.

Although I could not imagine losing my home as Ava had, seeing her positive outlook and attitude and watching her move forward was inspiring. The friends who surrounded her were true gems. I also appreciated Ava’s fear of flying, but like she said - I guess I did survive a tornado, so off she went to the Dominican Republic.

This heartwarming story reminded me that it’s never too late to enjoy life with the people you love.

Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @writerbethadb for the gifted book.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book ! I adored the main character and was able to empathize with her struggles and her decisions as she tried to discover her next path in life! Beth’s unique way of showing us as readers how life can change, especially as we reach the next stage in our lives is unique and enthralling! It was both uplifting and inspiring! But I loved most of all the gentleness and compassion that shone throughout the entire story. No blood, core or sensationalism needed to make you feel the struggles and the joys as this story unfolds! Uplifting and inspiring no mater how old you are when you read this! Lovely heartwarming story! I can’t wait for the next one!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

After Ava suffers the loss of her home after a tornado, she will need to find the ways she wants to and can move on.

Ava has been stuck in her ways, never leaving far from home after an accident took the life of her mother but content enough.

Going through a natural disaster and losing a lot has to be just devastating. I liked that Ava knew she needed to change things now and find herself again. I loved that she recognized that she also needed to help two of her friends who also suffered some losses, though one was not due to the tornado. Ava also had to find some courage to get to do what she did near the end of the book.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ava has never lived far from home, and then a tornado took that from her too. 

A nearby town faced devastation last spring after a tornado decimated the community. Seeing the aftermath was heartwrenching, words can’t describe the loss of… everything. The author did a fabulous job of putting the reader in the scenes and letting us feel all the feels. 

Is it possible to gain more than you’ve lost? With resolve and personal strength, Ava was able to find a family through friendship. Her pluck may help open your own eyes or face tragedy. This was a great read and one that will stay with me for quite some time.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the way that this book uses the natural disaster of a tornado to prompt not only the main character but also secondary characters to make decisions that incite life changes.

I enjoyed the relationship of both family and friends in this read. I liked the fact there is a small mystery of a suitcase that winds up after the tornado on the property of the main character, Ava. Ava goes on a search for the suitcase’s owner.

This book made me ponder what my reaction and action would be if I lost my home to a natural disaster. Would I try to get a close to how I lived my life before or would I choose to do something completely different?

[Letitia Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Beth Dotson Brown's novel, Rooted in Sunrise, Ava Winston is suddenly led down an unanticipated road questioning many emotions she felt after a devastating tornado destroyed her home. Ava is left to turn inward to explore her feelings from the traumatic loss of material possessions while at the same time dealing with complicated relationships. Unexpected help and support appear as Ava, her family, and her friends contemplate their next path. The thought-provoking issues within the pages of Rooted in Sunrise engage readers when something in life abruptly turns upside down.

[Alice Beresford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wonderful debut novel was hard to put down. I related to Ava, the main character, from the opening page.

Women in their 50s and older will recognize and empathize with Ava and the other women as they face very real dilemmas and challenges. While the opening challenge is a force of nature, the others are ones that we, our friends, families and neighbors do encounter in the real world. Their reactions and subsequent actions are very real.

While I cheered for them as they progressed, I was sad to close the book at the end. I found myself wanting more. Will there be a sequel?

[Kathryn McCullough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Dotson Brown’s debut novel Rooted in Sunrise belongs on the “to read list” of anyone who enjoys stories about hope and the role community plays in recovering from loss. The novel follows the challenges Ava faces after her house is destroyed in a tornado. Beautifully written, Rooted in Sunrise is compelling and plotted to keep you reading till the end. The novel is especially suited for women forced to start over later in life. Don’t miss this great story! I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

[Lisa Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rooted In Sunrise is an engaging story and I found myself getting wrapped up in the drama of the character's lives. I haven't experienced life after a natural disaster, but I could feel the emotions and the devastation of losing so much only to find the gains eventually outweighed the losses. From new friendships and found family to untapped inner strength and resolve this novel will lift your spirits and inspire you to keep going when times are tough.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really appreciate a book with a mature main character. It’s very much an underrepresented group that is rarely talked about.

And character growth. This book is only 200 pages (hint hint if you are looking to fill challenge prompts) but every character experiences growth and gains something they either needed or were lacking.

I really felt for Ava and even resemble a little of her stuckness.

The book celebrates women and their relationships. Friendship, mothers, daughters, family and neighbors. And it offers hope in the face of adversity.

It’s an uplifting read.

[Christy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of resilience! Ava was such likable character and I found her quite relatable. It’s hard to be “middle age” and find yourself dealing with a life changing crisis. Major understatement! It’s natural when something major hits to rethink so many aspects of our lives and wonder about choices we’ve made. I was rooting for Ava personally and professionally. I loved her compassion for her friends and family and really applauded her bravery. 

[Rachel Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooted in Sunrise follows a woman’s journey in rebuilding after a tornado upends her life and leaves her questioning everything she thought her future would look like.

As Ava digs through the rubble, she uncovers new possibilities afforded by the blank slate, proving that silver linings are always waiting when you have the courage and resilience to look.

[Laurlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooted in Sunrise is an extraordinary tale of strength and resilience, friendship and family. The author draws you in so the reader is totally enmeshed in the lives of these strong characters. As you read you can feel their loss and sorrow but celebrate their triumphs. I highly recommend this story.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a deep appreciation for strong female characters and stories of new beginnings, and this book was both uplifting and empowering. It was a great reminder that it's never too late to start over and embrace new opportunities.

Rooted in Sunrise is a story of learning to change and discovering what is most important.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooted in Sunrise is a mindfully written story which examines how we navigate making life changing decisions. Ava Winston lets us into her mind and shows us how our futures are entwined with our past experiences.

[Katrina Mackrides · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book beautifully captures life’s unpredictability and the varied ways individuals react to it, ranging from resistance to calm acceptance. Change is a constant presence in our lives. This story reminds us to discover the inner strength required to embrace it.

[Susan Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an enjoyable read! I loved rooting for Ava as she faced tough life decisions after losing her home in a tornado. I particularly enjoyed seeing Ava navigate her relationship with her adult daughter and the dynamics of her extended family. I look forward to reading another book by this author.

[Sondra Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book! I found myself being able to relate to the characters is various ways and the story flowed so well. Highly recommend.

[Doug Hackney · Rating 4 out of 5]

An artful weaving of individual stories within a community. It's a story with an encouraging message that we continue to grow even in adulthood.

[Sarah W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the emotion and the themes throughout. This was a great story of new beginnings and a little bit of facing your fears. When tragedy strikes Ava takes the time to reflect on her life and what she wants for her future. There were difficult conversations, unexpected friendships and a lot of healing. I never knew what Ava was going to decide to do and made for a quick read.

Thank you @writerbethadb @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.