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Dawn of Grace:
From her earliest days, Mary Magdalene has known fear and loss at a level so deep she has no hope of surfacing. Bound to the demons within her and incapable of freeing herself, Mary walks in shadow--until one day she encounters a healer, a rabbi who is radically different from the religious leaders and family members who could do nothing to help her. One touch from Jesus and Mary is never the same.
Now Mary's one mission in life is to serve the one who freed her. She is determined never to leave his side, fearing that if she loses him, she'll return to her former bondage. Even when the unthinkable happens and her savior is arrested and sentenced to execution, she cannot abandon him as so many others did. Let her be buried in his tomb, for she cannot live without him.
On the brink of despair, Mary is about to discover that while the life of faith is never perfect, perfect love casts out fear--and Jesus makes all things new.
Now Mary's one mission in life is to serve the one who freed her. She is determined never to leave his side, fearing that if she loses him, she'll return to her former bondage. Even when the unthinkable happens and her savior is arrested and sentenced to execution, she cannot abandon him as so many others did. Let her be buried in his tomb, for she cannot live without him.
On the brink of despair, Mary is about to discover that while the life of faith is never perfect, perfect love casts out fear--and Jesus makes all things new.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 18, 2025
72 people are currently reading
3062 people want to read
About the author
Jill Eileen Smith
28 books1,470 followersJill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam's Song, The Prince and the Prodigal, Daughter of Eden, and The Ark and the Dove. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Bible times.
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable cats Kody and Kaelee. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 16, 2025
“Maybe the idols and spirits weren’t so bad after all.”
Biblical fiction author, Jill Eileen Smith, explores one of the major themes of the bible, challenging God’s sovereignty, and highlights the dangers of putting our hope in anything that we allow to take the place of God.
None of us would admit to idolatry, but Satan has veiled it as attention to self, security, approval, success, relationships, and wealth. When we give these things more attention than they deserve, we are making them idols. The children at the beginning of this book find idols when they are playing at the seaside and although one of them knows that it’s wrong to play with them or bring them home, the other convinces her that it’s ok. What someone discarded carelessly instead of destroying became the downfall of someone else…the ripple effects were astounding. There’s a lesson in that for all of us.
At first, the plan is to seemingly play with these idols as if they were dolls, but the real reason for the attachment is rooted in a feeling of lack of control. One of the characters is driven to have power over her circumstances and it almost leads to her downfall…had she not met Jesus.
There’s so little in the Bible about Mary Magdalene but we do know that Jesus cast out of her seven demons and that she followed him faithfully. Smith has reimagined this biblical story to give us insight into how those demons found a home in Mary and show us the dangers of allowing them access to our hearts.
Smith capably placed me in Mary Magdalene’s shoes and I felt her fear before she met Jesus, her relief as he cleansed her and the joy that arose from fear as he died and was risen again. I had a better understanding of how fear operates and appreciated a little more how the Pharisees' lies originated from fear and from something they couldn’t control.
Smith showed us a radically transformed life; one that was free from what was holding her back. She also showed us a faithful follower who was ready and waiting. But, what spoke to me most was the uncomfortable chapters where the ‘spirits’ were in control. I realized the danger of building walls and of my human desire for control. I don’t think I’ll forget the above quote anytime soon.
This spectacular book isn’t just a Bible story; it’s applicable today and offers a solution to our fears.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Biblical fiction author, Jill Eileen Smith, explores one of the major themes of the bible, challenging God’s sovereignty, and highlights the dangers of putting our hope in anything that we allow to take the place of God.
None of us would admit to idolatry, but Satan has veiled it as attention to self, security, approval, success, relationships, and wealth. When we give these things more attention than they deserve, we are making them idols. The children at the beginning of this book find idols when they are playing at the seaside and although one of them knows that it’s wrong to play with them or bring them home, the other convinces her that it’s ok. What someone discarded carelessly instead of destroying became the downfall of someone else…the ripple effects were astounding. There’s a lesson in that for all of us.
At first, the plan is to seemingly play with these idols as if they were dolls, but the real reason for the attachment is rooted in a feeling of lack of control. One of the characters is driven to have power over her circumstances and it almost leads to her downfall…had she not met Jesus.
There’s so little in the Bible about Mary Magdalene but we do know that Jesus cast out of her seven demons and that she followed him faithfully. Smith has reimagined this biblical story to give us insight into how those demons found a home in Mary and show us the dangers of allowing them access to our hearts.
Smith capably placed me in Mary Magdalene’s shoes and I felt her fear before she met Jesus, her relief as he cleansed her and the joy that arose from fear as he died and was risen again. I had a better understanding of how fear operates and appreciated a little more how the Pharisees' lies originated from fear and from something they couldn’t control.
Smith showed us a radically transformed life; one that was free from what was holding her back. She also showed us a faithful follower who was ready and waiting. But, what spoke to me most was the uncomfortable chapters where the ‘spirits’ were in control. I realized the danger of building walls and of my human desire for control. I don’t think I’ll forget the above quote anytime soon.
This spectacular book isn’t just a Bible story; it’s applicable today and offers a solution to our fears.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 23, 2025
3.5✨
Dawn of Grace by Jill Eileen Smith very well researched. I am not sure how I really feel about the book. Fiction book about Jesus leaves me conflicted. Mary Magdalene as the central character of the novel is good. The belief of Faith over Fear is true for today. I think one thing that bothered me was taking scripture literally and not paraphrasing so it blends into the reading.
Dawn of Grace by Jill Eileen Smith very well researched. I am not sure how I really feel about the book. Fiction book about Jesus leaves me conflicted. Mary Magdalene as the central character of the novel is good. The belief of Faith over Fear is true for today. I think one thing that bothered me was taking scripture literally and not paraphrasing so it blends into the reading.
June 16, 2025
Jill Eileen Smith was one of the first biblical fiction authors I read when I first started blogging back in 2007. I fell in love with her ability to take the stories from the Bible, by giving our heroes/heroines legs, walking straight out of the Bible into our everyday lives.
Can we just talk for a second about how beautiful the cover is? When I saw it last year, I knew I would need it for my shelf. Mary looking up at Christ is how I've always pictured her as I grew up.
We've all been Mary Magdalene at one time ... we all needed His healing touch, and some of us are still longing for that touch.
Jill Eileen Smith takes Mary Magdalene and creates a story of how she may have become possessed by the demons. Her creation is very plausible given the time. She also shows how Mary becomes literally dependent on Christ. She doesn't think she can survive without Him.
This is an absolutely beautiful story of Jesus accepting the worst in society, comforting them, showing that no matter who they are or what they've done, they are loved by God who created them, and so loved that Christ would die on a cross for them.
Bottom Line:
This book is a beautiful depiction of Mary Magdalene and her demon possession. Mary is desperate, and once Christ comes on the scene, she wonders if He could do for her what He's done for so many others. Ms. Smith shows the true Comforter, Christ, is within these pages. If you've never read a book by Jill Eileen Smith, this is a good one to start with. There is so much more I could say, but I seriously do not want to ruin the reading experience.
Can we just talk for a second about how beautiful the cover is? When I saw it last year, I knew I would need it for my shelf. Mary looking up at Christ is how I've always pictured her as I grew up.
We've all been Mary Magdalene at one time ... we all needed His healing touch, and some of us are still longing for that touch.
Jill Eileen Smith takes Mary Magdalene and creates a story of how she may have become possessed by the demons. Her creation is very plausible given the time. She also shows how Mary becomes literally dependent on Christ. She doesn't think she can survive without Him.
This is an absolutely beautiful story of Jesus accepting the worst in society, comforting them, showing that no matter who they are or what they've done, they are loved by God who created them, and so loved that Christ would die on a cross for them.
Bottom Line:
This book is a beautiful depiction of Mary Magdalene and her demon possession. Mary is desperate, and once Christ comes on the scene, she wonders if He could do for her what He's done for so many others. Ms. Smith shows the true Comforter, Christ, is within these pages. If you've never read a book by Jill Eileen Smith, this is a good one to start with. There is so much more I could say, but I seriously do not want to ruin the reading experience.
June 6, 2025
I really liked this Christian fiction by Jill Eileen Smith! Great fiction faith-filled writing. Some may find it interesting or strange that she doesn’t mention Mary Magdalene being a prostitute because some believe Mary was a prostitute because they believe that Mary Magdalene and the woman who was found in the act of committing adultery that Jesus did not condemn, but told her to go and sin no more, was the same person. I believe this too, but when I read the author’s explanation of writing them as not the same, I saw , as she did, that the Bible does not mention the woman’s name, so why do some believe this? That’s a whole other discussion in itself, but this is why she wrote it the way she did. She wrote her as having the seven demons the Bible talks about and that Jesus healed her from. She doesn’t mention the other scripture in the Bible of the accusation of the woman being accused of prostitution and Jesus healing her. But really good Christian fiction story. Recommend to all, especially those who like to read Christian fiction and faith stories. I thank Net Galley, the Publishers, and Author for the arc and opportunity to read and give my own thoughts and opinions of Dawn of Grace.
January 23, 2025
Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for this #gifted book!*
Synopsis: “We all have a past, Mary…Everyone needs Jesus to forgive them of something. If we were all holy as God is holy, we wouldn’t need him.” Mary feels that she knows the need for forgiveness perhaps better than anyone else in her circles. After being possessed by demons, she encounters the amazing healing of Jesus and begins to follow this radical teacher alongside his disciples. At first the people love him, but the further into his ministry they go, the more people turn from him. Even Mary and the disciples are confused by many of Jesus’ teachings. If this is the Messiah, would he really die? What about the promise of his presence? Can Mary trust that Jesus is really the Savior he says he is?
Analysis: Biblical fiction can be such a challenge when it comes to balancing Scripture, culture, and creativity. It was interesting to see this author’s portrayal of Mary. You’ll even get to see some of the other Marys in Scripture and how they all had different roles in Jesus’ ministry. Sometimes it did feel very focused and repetitive when it came to Mary’s inner dialogue. I would have preferred a little more plot-driven. I didn’t always agree with some of the ways Jesus was portrayed (An example: one quote said Jesus “appeared anxious” to leave somewhere.) and how some of his quotes were added in. But overall, I think the author handled Jesus well in a work of fiction and used Scripture appropriately. There is a tiny thread of romance too if you’re hoping for that in Mary’s story! Overall, this book is very character-driven, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into a biblical character’s thoughts, I think this would be a good place to start!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Synopsis: “We all have a past, Mary…Everyone needs Jesus to forgive them of something. If we were all holy as God is holy, we wouldn’t need him.” Mary feels that she knows the need for forgiveness perhaps better than anyone else in her circles. After being possessed by demons, she encounters the amazing healing of Jesus and begins to follow this radical teacher alongside his disciples. At first the people love him, but the further into his ministry they go, the more people turn from him. Even Mary and the disciples are confused by many of Jesus’ teachings. If this is the Messiah, would he really die? What about the promise of his presence? Can Mary trust that Jesus is really the Savior he says he is?
Analysis: Biblical fiction can be such a challenge when it comes to balancing Scripture, culture, and creativity. It was interesting to see this author’s portrayal of Mary. You’ll even get to see some of the other Marys in Scripture and how they all had different roles in Jesus’ ministry. Sometimes it did feel very focused and repetitive when it came to Mary’s inner dialogue. I would have preferred a little more plot-driven. I didn’t always agree with some of the ways Jesus was portrayed (An example: one quote said Jesus “appeared anxious” to leave somewhere.) and how some of his quotes were added in. But overall, I think the author handled Jesus well in a work of fiction and used Scripture appropriately. There is a tiny thread of romance too if you’re hoping for that in Mary’s story! Overall, this book is very character-driven, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into a biblical character’s thoughts, I think this would be a good place to start!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 23, 2025
I was immediately drawn to this book—the cover is stunning, and I love discovering new-to-me authors. Jill Eileen Smith’s writing is beautiful, and her storytelling deeply immersive. However, I found the focus on Mary Magdalene’s possession unsettling, and I ultimately had to put the book down before reaching the moment of her redemption.
This is a personal preference, and I know many will find inspiration in Mary’s journey. If you enjoy biblical fiction with deep emotional themes, this might be a great fit for you!
Content/Trigger: demonic spirits entering a body, mention of possible abuse of some kind to a small girl (not the main character).
This is a personal preference, and I know many will find inspiration in Mary’s journey. If you enjoy biblical fiction with deep emotional themes, this might be a great fit for you!
Content/Trigger: demonic spirits entering a body, mention of possible abuse of some kind to a small girl (not the main character).
January 14, 2025
I enjoyed reading Dawn Of Grace by Jill Eileen Smith. Her attention to details along with her storytelling skills brought Mary Magdalene to life. She created a backstory for a little known character from the Bible. Her descriptions the despair one would feel at being possessed compared to the joy of deliverance really made me think. Reading Dawn of Grace made me review the life I have and be thankful for everything God has given me. I highly recommend Dawn Of Grace.
I was given a copy of Dawn of Grace with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
I was given a copy of Dawn of Grace with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
April 10, 2025
Freedom coursed through me. This man, Jesus—I didn’t know who he was or where he came from, but one thing was certain. No one had ever helped me like he had. I never wanted to leave his side.”
Jill Eileen Smith authors a well-researched, Scripture-based fictional account of Mary Magdalene that will have you amazed, terrified, and wondering. You will be amazed by the miracles Jesus does as they are fleshed out with details that truly bring them to life. You will be terrified for Mary as you see her descent into demonic oppression and get a better grip on the horrors that began to be an unpredictable part of her life, until she wishes for death. You will be left struggling with the reality of Jesus’s predictions of his death, wondering how much you might understand if His teachings and miracles were a new thing. What if the Bible were happening before your eyes, not something well-known, documented, and read and learned. I read with fresh eyes as the disciples and others see multiple miracles and still struggle to process it all, to believe Jesus is really the Son of God as He claims. And then the seemingly contradictory statements. As much as possible, Smith has Jesus speaking using Bible passages, in a concerted effort to avoid any conflict with Scripture. It is so interesting to view Jesus’s ministry from a woman’s point of view- so many emotions while the men reasoned and argued.
I found it especially interesting to see how Smith handles a few things, like Mary’s need for deep love. “What I really wanted, I didn’t have. I wanted someone to love me.” As Mary follows Jesus, she has accepted that He truly loves her, but she deals with the human emotion of trying to understand how God can love all people equally, when people naturally want to be the most important in a relationship. Can God love Mary ( and us) specially, uniquely, but still love others with the same intensity? Does His love spur us on to do for Him as it did Mary? And doubts. Can we have doubts? I loved how Smith imagines Jesus addressing the disciples’ doubts: “It is not wrong to have doubts and confusion, Philip.”… “It is what you do with your doubts and confusion that matters. Do they lead you to me, to faith and to seeking the Father, or do they push you to go your own way?”
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“We all have a past, Mary,” he said softly. “Everyone needs Jesus to forgive them of something. If we were all holy as God is holy, we wouldn’t need him.”
-Joseph Justus
“I did not come to make friends with those who think they are righteous. I came to save those who know they are not,”
“To realize Jesus accepted the worst members of society comforted me in a way I could not explain.”
“I think we need him far more than he needs us.”
Jill Eileen Smith authors a well-researched, Scripture-based fictional account of Mary Magdalene that will have you amazed, terrified, and wondering. You will be amazed by the miracles Jesus does as they are fleshed out with details that truly bring them to life. You will be terrified for Mary as you see her descent into demonic oppression and get a better grip on the horrors that began to be an unpredictable part of her life, until she wishes for death. You will be left struggling with the reality of Jesus’s predictions of his death, wondering how much you might understand if His teachings and miracles were a new thing. What if the Bible were happening before your eyes, not something well-known, documented, and read and learned. I read with fresh eyes as the disciples and others see multiple miracles and still struggle to process it all, to believe Jesus is really the Son of God as He claims. And then the seemingly contradictory statements. As much as possible, Smith has Jesus speaking using Bible passages, in a concerted effort to avoid any conflict with Scripture. It is so interesting to view Jesus’s ministry from a woman’s point of view- so many emotions while the men reasoned and argued.
I found it especially interesting to see how Smith handles a few things, like Mary’s need for deep love. “What I really wanted, I didn’t have. I wanted someone to love me.” As Mary follows Jesus, she has accepted that He truly loves her, but she deals with the human emotion of trying to understand how God can love all people equally, when people naturally want to be the most important in a relationship. Can God love Mary ( and us) specially, uniquely, but still love others with the same intensity? Does His love spur us on to do for Him as it did Mary? And doubts. Can we have doubts? I loved how Smith imagines Jesus addressing the disciples’ doubts: “It is not wrong to have doubts and confusion, Philip.”… “It is what you do with your doubts and confusion that matters. Do they lead you to me, to faith and to seeking the Father, or do they push you to go your own way?”
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“We all have a past, Mary,” he said softly. “Everyone needs Jesus to forgive them of something. If we were all holy as God is holy, we wouldn’t need him.”
-Joseph Justus
“I did not come to make friends with those who think they are righteous. I came to save those who know they are not,”
“To realize Jesus accepted the worst members of society comforted me in a way I could not explain.”
“I think we need him far more than he needs us.”
March 24, 2025
I am giving this book a 5-star review because I walked into this book knowing it would not be biblically accurate. Mary Magdalene was amazing, but there is so much we don’t know, there is much confusion about her, and there are also lies concerning her. There are many “facts” that do not follow the Catholic faith- just an FYI here for potential Cathie readers. Knowing that, I walked out of this book wanting to love Jesus like Mary did. And I think that makes a pretty great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2025
When I discovered that Jill Eileen Smith had a book releasing that focused on Mary Magdelene I was quite intrigued. I've read a couple of her other books and have really enjoyed how she brought biblical times and characters to life. With Dawn of Grace she did it again. Only this time, the story was from the New Testament.
We get to see Mary Magdelene as a child and then a young adult before she joins Jesus' followers. I felt the author did a great job showing how Mary may have become possessed by seven demons, what her life could have been like while possessed, and how she felt when Jesus freed her. The reader journeys along with her as she travels with Jesus and his disciples and all the other people who follow him seeking healing and other miracles.
I like the way the author showed how Mary and the other women could have been helping financially and what it may have looked like to follow Him from town to town, listening to His teaching and experience His miracles. In addition to the words Jesus speaks in the Bible, the author has also included conversations He may have had with his followers. At one point I think this would have bothered me as it isn't exactly from the Bible. However, I don't feel what was added contradicts anything that Jesus is recorded as saying. I like thinking of how He might have interacted with His followers aside from what we read in Scripture.
Dawn of Grace is a wonderful book and one I highly recommend. I think it would be a great read leading up to Resurrection Sunday.
I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
We get to see Mary Magdelene as a child and then a young adult before she joins Jesus' followers. I felt the author did a great job showing how Mary may have become possessed by seven demons, what her life could have been like while possessed, and how she felt when Jesus freed her. The reader journeys along with her as she travels with Jesus and his disciples and all the other people who follow him seeking healing and other miracles.
I like the way the author showed how Mary and the other women could have been helping financially and what it may have looked like to follow Him from town to town, listening to His teaching and experience His miracles. In addition to the words Jesus speaks in the Bible, the author has also included conversations He may have had with his followers. At one point I think this would have bothered me as it isn't exactly from the Bible. However, I don't feel what was added contradicts anything that Jesus is recorded as saying. I like thinking of how He might have interacted with His followers aside from what we read in Scripture.
Dawn of Grace is a wonderful book and one I highly recommend. I think it would be a great read leading up to Resurrection Sunday.
I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
April 12, 2025
I thoroughly enjoy reading Biblical fiction, as it brings stories from the Bible to life. While it is partially fictional, it still conveys important messages and inspires readers to learn and grow.
Dawn of Grace is beautifully written, sharing the journey of Mary Magdalene’s from demonic possession to receiving miraculous healing, hope, and love. Although I usually read Old Testament Biblical fiction, I am always pleased when New Testament figures encounter Jesus. Hearts and lives are transformed, healed and filled with immeasurable love from the one and only Savior.
Mary’s transformation in this story was both inspiring and beautiful. It is a meaningful tale that I thoroughly enjoyed.
First Line (Prologue): “It’s this way, Mary. Come on!”
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Page Count: 368
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
Dawn of Grace is beautifully written, sharing the journey of Mary Magdalene’s from demonic possession to receiving miraculous healing, hope, and love. Although I usually read Old Testament Biblical fiction, I am always pleased when New Testament figures encounter Jesus. Hearts and lives are transformed, healed and filled with immeasurable love from the one and only Savior.
Mary’s transformation in this story was both inspiring and beautiful. It is a meaningful tale that I thoroughly enjoyed.
First Line (Prologue): “It’s this way, Mary. Come on!”
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Author: Jill Eileen Smith
Page Count: 368
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
June 27, 2025
This book made it in my top favorites of the books I've read from the author. I love the backstory she gave Mary. The story and side characters worked really well together. There was a moment in the story that brought me to tears as I saw myself and how good God's wonderful grace and love is.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
December 10, 2025
Possibly my lowest-ever rating for a JES book. I just couldn't get into it.
April 3, 2025
I stopped reading this book one day after I started reading it. No, thank you. Too disturbing.
March 4, 2025
This book is absolutely a 5/5 star read! Jill Eileen Smith is one of my favorite authors and I have loved every book of hers that I have read! So when I heard that she was writing this one I immediately was interested and I have been eagerly awaiting the release day ever since! I read this book as soon as I could get a copy and it was AMAZING! So well written, you really felt connected to the characters and invested in the story. It really made me stop and think about Mary Magdalene's story and what her life was like. It also made me personally stop and think what it would have been like to have been one of Jesus' followers at that time and traveling with Him. I truly felt like I was there. I will always recommend Jill and her books, and I have already recommended her to several people. If you are thinking of reading this book, do it! You won't regret it. Such a good book! Love love love!! I'm already waiting on her next book!
December 21, 2024
Dawn of Grace by Jill Eileen Smith is a moving biblical novel that follows Mary Magdalene’s journey from a demon-possessed woman to a follower of Jesus Christ. Through Mary’s eyes, we get a probable backstory on how she came to be possessed and what happened after Jesus healed her.
Mary was presented as a character who felt unloved throughout her life and was easily led astray by others. Her gullibility and desire for more control over her own life seemed to be the catalyst for her possession. I felt the author did a marvellous job portraying a dutiful yet innocent girl, who regretted asking evil spirits into her life. In fact, the author did such a good job of this that I found I had to put the book down several times as it disturbed me.
Smith did a remarkable job of bringing the Scriptures to life. However, I felt like I was reading the Bible. This is not a bad thing, but I was expecting a side-story of some sort where the author didn’t feel the need to be constrained by the Scriptures. While she did this with Mary and her friend Susanna, once that part of the story was over, it lacked any further excitement.
Mary’s possession and healing were over faster than I would have liked. It would have been nice to see a bit more adventure in the story along with more character growth in Mary. Her inner thoughts were the same in almost every chapter after she was healed, and the story seemed to stall as she and the disciples followed Jesus around the country.
I loved the way the author portrayed Jesus and her inclusion of other women who followed Him. I appreciated the faith message in this book and how Jesus redeems us. I realize, too, that telling a story from the Scriptures is difficult, especially where Jesus is involved. The author did a great job of imagining what Jesus would say while combining that with what He actually said.
Her depiction of Mary at the garden tomb with Jesus was memorable and gave me chills. In fact, Mary’s devotion to the Lord and her love of Him is something I wish more Christians (myself included) aspired to.
Dawn of Grace is ultimately a story of love, discipleship, and self-discovery that will stir the flames of your faith. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley for my honest review.
Mary was presented as a character who felt unloved throughout her life and was easily led astray by others. Her gullibility and desire for more control over her own life seemed to be the catalyst for her possession. I felt the author did a marvellous job portraying a dutiful yet innocent girl, who regretted asking evil spirits into her life. In fact, the author did such a good job of this that I found I had to put the book down several times as it disturbed me.
Smith did a remarkable job of bringing the Scriptures to life. However, I felt like I was reading the Bible. This is not a bad thing, but I was expecting a side-story of some sort where the author didn’t feel the need to be constrained by the Scriptures. While she did this with Mary and her friend Susanna, once that part of the story was over, it lacked any further excitement.
Mary’s possession and healing were over faster than I would have liked. It would have been nice to see a bit more adventure in the story along with more character growth in Mary. Her inner thoughts were the same in almost every chapter after she was healed, and the story seemed to stall as she and the disciples followed Jesus around the country.
I loved the way the author portrayed Jesus and her inclusion of other women who followed Him. I appreciated the faith message in this book and how Jesus redeems us. I realize, too, that telling a story from the Scriptures is difficult, especially where Jesus is involved. The author did a great job of imagining what Jesus would say while combining that with what He actually said.
Her depiction of Mary at the garden tomb with Jesus was memorable and gave me chills. In fact, Mary’s devotion to the Lord and her love of Him is something I wish more Christians (myself included) aspired to.
Dawn of Grace is ultimately a story of love, discipleship, and self-discovery that will stir the flames of your faith. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley for my honest review.
January 30, 2025
Dawn of Grace
Mary Magdalene's Story
by Jill Eileen Smith
Pub DateFeb 18 2025
Revell
Christian| Historical Fiction
Revell and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of Dawn of Grace for review.
What happens when the hope she has found slips from her grasp when she's pulled from the depths of despair?
Mary, bound to her demons and incapable of freeing herself, walks in shadows until one day she meets a healer, a rabbi who is radically different from the religious leaders and family members who were powerless to help her. Since her earliest days, Mary Magdalene has experienced fear and loss so deep she can never recover. One day, Mary walks in shadow, bound by the demons inside her and incapable of freeing herself--until she meets a healer, a rabbi radically different from the religious leaders and family members who were unable to assist her.
Mary's only mission in life is to serve the one who freed her. As long as she has him, she is determined never to leave, fearing that if she loses him, she will return to her former bondage. Even if the unthinkable happens and her savior is arrested and sentenced to execution, she cannot abandon him. Let her be buried in his tomb, for she cannot live without him.
When Mary is on the verge of despair, she realizes that while faith is never perfect, perfect love casts out fear--and Jesus makes all things new.
I give Dawn of Grace five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Mary Magdalene's Story
by Jill Eileen Smith
Pub DateFeb 18 2025
Revell
Christian| Historical Fiction
Revell and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of Dawn of Grace for review.
What happens when the hope she has found slips from her grasp when she's pulled from the depths of despair?
Mary, bound to her demons and incapable of freeing herself, walks in shadows until one day she meets a healer, a rabbi who is radically different from the religious leaders and family members who were powerless to help her. Since her earliest days, Mary Magdalene has experienced fear and loss so deep she can never recover. One day, Mary walks in shadow, bound by the demons inside her and incapable of freeing herself--until she meets a healer, a rabbi radically different from the religious leaders and family members who were unable to assist her.
Mary's only mission in life is to serve the one who freed her. As long as she has him, she is determined never to leave, fearing that if she loses him, she will return to her former bondage. Even if the unthinkable happens and her savior is arrested and sentenced to execution, she cannot abandon him. Let her be buried in his tomb, for she cannot live without him.
When Mary is on the verge of despair, she realizes that while faith is never perfect, perfect love casts out fear--and Jesus makes all things new.
I give Dawn of Grace five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
March 4, 2025
Mary Magdalene might be the most enigmatic and irresistible woman in the Bible. Personally, Dawn of Grace is the fourth fictional take on her I've read. Knowing and loving Jill Eileen Smith's work as I do, but also knowing she hadn't written about a New Testament lady before, I eagerly opened Dawn of Grace to see how Mary Magdalene would come to life this time.
Jill Eileen Smith didn't let me down. Her version of Mary Magdalene is true to what Scripture reveals, meaning there's not much new to say about her history, her era, and what initially brought her into contact with Jesus Christ. But Jill's Mary Magdalene distinguishes herself from all the other versions in fiction, even and especially Biblical fiction. She's a bit less three-dimensional than other Magdalenes, a bit detached from her own story at times, arguably "quieter" and less "worldly wise" than even Christian authors might portray her. That, though, keeps the focus on Jesus and the Gospel, and it actually lets readers dig deeper to find out who *this* Magdalene is or could have been in real life.
To wit, this Magdalene personifies vulnerable, yet strong, without leaning into the "strong woman" expectations that have almost become stereotypical. She clings to Jesus and fears losing Him on an almost phobic level, but she's never clingy or co-dependent. Instead, Mary clings with wholehearted devotion and fierce protectiveness. She loves Jesus because He healed her, but also because of who He is--because she sees and understands everyone for who they are, with amazing depth. And yet, she's also imperfect in ways I rarely see in heroines, particularly those of Biblical fiction. This Magdalene gets jealous. She holds grudges and shuns forgiveness. She assumes the worst of the people she should know and love best. In other words, Jill Eileen Smith's Mary Magdalene is a reminder that Jesus and His kingdom have room for real people like me.
Speaking of the kingdom, yes, Dawn of Grace is a book whose spiritual threads can't be separated from its plot, because Jesus' ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection *are* the plot. But Dawn of Grace gets extra points for both plot and spiritual threads because Jill spends time on pieces of Gospel stories that similar books may skip or only reference. For instance, she gives a whole scene to the widow who puts all she had to live on in the offering box, which I found convicting and inspiring. She also spends a bit more time than normal on the healing of the blind man from John chapter 9, whose story doesn't appear in every Gospel. These choices let readers see new facets of familiar stories and see new ways in which Jesus' ministry would've impacted the people experiencing it.
The same is true for how Jill handles familiar characters and their interactions. Not everyone is fleshed out with a three-dimensional personality; the cast is too big for that, and again, I think she was necessarily intentional about Jesus being the focus through Mary Magdalene's narration. However, most characters do get unique shading and personality traits, or depth that explains who they could have been and why. Time is spent, for example, contrasting Peter, Matthew, and Simon Z, then showing how forgiveness and friendship developed between them. Minor disciples like Andrew, or followers who weren't in the Twelve like Joseph Justus, get more page time than normal too, so readers get to know them and what their roles in ministry might've looked like.
Jill takes a risk in that Mary Magdalene is not physically with Jesus for every part of Dawn of Grace. In particular, she's missing from some key scenes, such as the Last Supper, and thus can't speak to them. But this works not only because it's Scripturally accurate, but because it challenges Mary's character and forces her to grow. Jill doesn't probe as deeply into Mary's introspection, fears, or new gifts of discernment as I sometimes thought she should. That said, the scenes where Mary Magdalene is not with the disciples, or is in the background, force her to work through her own journey. As she does, readers get to grow with her.
This, in fact, was probably the best part of Dawn of Grace for me. That is, I grew up in church. I know Jesus' story inside out. Thus, it can be too easy for me to read a book like this and feel tempted to "reassure" a character like Mary Magdalene, "He's going to be resurrected. It's going to be okay." But then I remember--Mary Magdalene, Susanna, Joanna, the disciples--they *did not know that.* It feels easy for me to say, "Of course everything Jesus does and says makes sense"--but only if you know the full context for everything He said and did, which *none of those characters did.* Often throughout Dawn of Grace, I found myself almost relearning the basics, learning how to think the way the earliest, newest followers of Jesus would've thought. I challenged myself with questions like, "Yes, if I were in their shoes, why wouldn't I want to literally crown Jesus king? Why wouldn't I be confused when He said He would die--since yes, God cannot in fact die or lie?" It was a humbling yet uplifting experience.
As noted, I would've liked the characters, especially Mary Magdalene, to be more three-dimensional at times. I especially would've liked to see more development and usage of her gift of discernment, because what exists intrigued me. I also felt that, even though the thoughts made logical sense, Mary Magdalene and other characters repeated themselves a bit too often occasionally. For instance, if Mary Magdalene said, "the Messiah can't die" once, she said it at least ten times.
That said, those issues are mild to moderate. I'd still call Dawn of Grace a 4.5 and give it a hearty recommendation. I can't wait to see which New Testament heroine Jill Eileen Smith picks to write about next, and I hope she writes fast.
Jill Eileen Smith didn't let me down. Her version of Mary Magdalene is true to what Scripture reveals, meaning there's not much new to say about her history, her era, and what initially brought her into contact with Jesus Christ. But Jill's Mary Magdalene distinguishes herself from all the other versions in fiction, even and especially Biblical fiction. She's a bit less three-dimensional than other Magdalenes, a bit detached from her own story at times, arguably "quieter" and less "worldly wise" than even Christian authors might portray her. That, though, keeps the focus on Jesus and the Gospel, and it actually lets readers dig deeper to find out who *this* Magdalene is or could have been in real life.
To wit, this Magdalene personifies vulnerable, yet strong, without leaning into the "strong woman" expectations that have almost become stereotypical. She clings to Jesus and fears losing Him on an almost phobic level, but she's never clingy or co-dependent. Instead, Mary clings with wholehearted devotion and fierce protectiveness. She loves Jesus because He healed her, but also because of who He is--because she sees and understands everyone for who they are, with amazing depth. And yet, she's also imperfect in ways I rarely see in heroines, particularly those of Biblical fiction. This Magdalene gets jealous. She holds grudges and shuns forgiveness. She assumes the worst of the people she should know and love best. In other words, Jill Eileen Smith's Mary Magdalene is a reminder that Jesus and His kingdom have room for real people like me.
Speaking of the kingdom, yes, Dawn of Grace is a book whose spiritual threads can't be separated from its plot, because Jesus' ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection *are* the plot. But Dawn of Grace gets extra points for both plot and spiritual threads because Jill spends time on pieces of Gospel stories that similar books may skip or only reference. For instance, she gives a whole scene to the widow who puts all she had to live on in the offering box, which I found convicting and inspiring. She also spends a bit more time than normal on the healing of the blind man from John chapter 9, whose story doesn't appear in every Gospel. These choices let readers see new facets of familiar stories and see new ways in which Jesus' ministry would've impacted the people experiencing it.
The same is true for how Jill handles familiar characters and their interactions. Not everyone is fleshed out with a three-dimensional personality; the cast is too big for that, and again, I think she was necessarily intentional about Jesus being the focus through Mary Magdalene's narration. However, most characters do get unique shading and personality traits, or depth that explains who they could have been and why. Time is spent, for example, contrasting Peter, Matthew, and Simon Z, then showing how forgiveness and friendship developed between them. Minor disciples like Andrew, or followers who weren't in the Twelve like Joseph Justus, get more page time than normal too, so readers get to know them and what their roles in ministry might've looked like.
Jill takes a risk in that Mary Magdalene is not physically with Jesus for every part of Dawn of Grace. In particular, she's missing from some key scenes, such as the Last Supper, and thus can't speak to them. But this works not only because it's Scripturally accurate, but because it challenges Mary's character and forces her to grow. Jill doesn't probe as deeply into Mary's introspection, fears, or new gifts of discernment as I sometimes thought she should. That said, the scenes where Mary Magdalene is not with the disciples, or is in the background, force her to work through her own journey. As she does, readers get to grow with her.
This, in fact, was probably the best part of Dawn of Grace for me. That is, I grew up in church. I know Jesus' story inside out. Thus, it can be too easy for me to read a book like this and feel tempted to "reassure" a character like Mary Magdalene, "He's going to be resurrected. It's going to be okay." But then I remember--Mary Magdalene, Susanna, Joanna, the disciples--they *did not know that.* It feels easy for me to say, "Of course everything Jesus does and says makes sense"--but only if you know the full context for everything He said and did, which *none of those characters did.* Often throughout Dawn of Grace, I found myself almost relearning the basics, learning how to think the way the earliest, newest followers of Jesus would've thought. I challenged myself with questions like, "Yes, if I were in their shoes, why wouldn't I want to literally crown Jesus king? Why wouldn't I be confused when He said He would die--since yes, God cannot in fact die or lie?" It was a humbling yet uplifting experience.
As noted, I would've liked the characters, especially Mary Magdalene, to be more three-dimensional at times. I especially would've liked to see more development and usage of her gift of discernment, because what exists intrigued me. I also felt that, even though the thoughts made logical sense, Mary Magdalene and other characters repeated themselves a bit too often occasionally. For instance, if Mary Magdalene said, "the Messiah can't die" once, she said it at least ten times.
That said, those issues are mild to moderate. I'd still call Dawn of Grace a 4.5 and give it a hearty recommendation. I can't wait to see which New Testament heroine Jill Eileen Smith picks to write about next, and I hope she writes fast.
April 27, 2025
I have read every single one of Jill Eileen Smith’s Biblical Fiction novels and have never been disappointed by any. Her newest book, Dawn of Grace, continues her amazing books covering various characters of the Bible. Many cover Old Testament characters, but Dawn of Grace is the story of Mary Magdalene a New Testament character. Smith’s historical and Biblical research is excellent as always. We get a glimpse of Mary’s story from her teen years through the Resurrection, her life overcome by Demons until her meeting with Jesus, and her involvement with the other women who followed Jesus. Another great Biblical fiction read from Jill Eileen Smith.
August 9, 2025
(2.5 / 5)
Dawn of Grace is the fictional story of Mary Magdalene, from the perspective of Mary herself, starting in her childhood, when the author imagines that she might have first become possessed by the demons that the Bible says Jesus cleansed her of, through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The first portion of the book, when Mary is possessed and dealing with that for years, is intentionally and understandably dark and depressing. Some readers may struggle with the details of the spirits that Mary lets in, so let that be a warning if that might be you. I didn't have any issue with that, though I have to admit to being a little confused that Mary seems to believe that they are the spirits of her relatives, while also being fully aware that they are demons (does that mean she thinks her loved ones died and became demons?). And demonic possession is apparently rampant in her world (which makes sense, since Jesus and his disciples did cast demons out of a good amount of people in the Bible), so again, it seems strange that she didn't know what she was getting herself into. But maybe she came to learn about other possessed people as she grew up and I just didn't pick up on that.
Once Mary was cleansed and started to follow Jesus, I had two main issues with the story—one with the plot and one with the fictionalization. On the plot side, it just felt fairly slow to me. Because Mary is a woman, she spends a lot of her time (sometimes grudgingly, sometimes cheerfully) helping the other women prepare food. It's just...not terribly interesting. And so many of Jesus's teachings are re-hashed by "the men" and even Mary and the other women, as they try to make sense of what at the time must have truly been confounding, but again, in a fictional story, it's just too much repetition to keep at least this reader engaged.
The other main issue I had was with the portrayal of Jesus. I'm not saying that Smith went against the Bible or included anything sacrilegious, but I think that we need to be really careful about any fictional portrayals of Jesus. Other biblical figures (humans themselves) are one thing, but this is God Himself in human form, and anything outside of what the Bible says He did or said is purely human invention. Smith does use Scripture for a majority of his dialog, but the rest of his words, actions, or feelings made me a little uneasy. I worry that there are people who don't necessarily know how to draw that line, and presenting extra-biblical portrayals of God or Jesus to people like that could cause trouble. This concern isn't specific to this book, but something I realized as I read. And it made me realize why other fictionalized portrayals of Jesus have set me on edge in the past; I think what this tells me is that I need to avoid biblical fiction that is likely to include Christ himself as a character. (Though I did once read a biblical fiction book—Daughter of Cana by Angela Hunt— that showed Jesus in a private moment, and the author still used Scripture for his words, which I really appreciated.) Even beyond my concern about the character of Jesus having extra-biblical words and actions, there's also the incongruity of all of the fictional dialog with what is directly out of the Bible. Though Smith's dialog isn't exactly modern, it's different enough from NIV dialog to be a bit jolting to me.
Overall, the book fell short of my expectations, but I think many people would easily overlook the things that brought the rating down for me. So as always, please check out other reviews if you're interested in reading this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for providing me a copy of this book to review.
Dawn of Grace is the fictional story of Mary Magdalene, from the perspective of Mary herself, starting in her childhood, when the author imagines that she might have first become possessed by the demons that the Bible says Jesus cleansed her of, through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The first portion of the book, when Mary is possessed and dealing with that for years, is intentionally and understandably dark and depressing. Some readers may struggle with the details of the spirits that Mary lets in, so let that be a warning if that might be you. I didn't have any issue with that, though I have to admit to being a little confused that Mary seems to believe that they are the spirits of her relatives, while also being fully aware that they are demons (does that mean she thinks her loved ones died and became demons?). And demonic possession is apparently rampant in her world (which makes sense, since Jesus and his disciples did cast demons out of a good amount of people in the Bible), so again, it seems strange that she didn't know what she was getting herself into. But maybe she came to learn about other possessed people as she grew up and I just didn't pick up on that.
Once Mary was cleansed and started to follow Jesus, I had two main issues with the story—one with the plot and one with the fictionalization. On the plot side, it just felt fairly slow to me. Because Mary is a woman, she spends a lot of her time (sometimes grudgingly, sometimes cheerfully) helping the other women prepare food. It's just...not terribly interesting. And so many of Jesus's teachings are re-hashed by "the men" and even Mary and the other women, as they try to make sense of what at the time must have truly been confounding, but again, in a fictional story, it's just too much repetition to keep at least this reader engaged.
The other main issue I had was with the portrayal of Jesus. I'm not saying that Smith went against the Bible or included anything sacrilegious, but I think that we need to be really careful about any fictional portrayals of Jesus. Other biblical figures (humans themselves) are one thing, but this is God Himself in human form, and anything outside of what the Bible says He did or said is purely human invention. Smith does use Scripture for a majority of his dialog, but the rest of his words, actions, or feelings made me a little uneasy. I worry that there are people who don't necessarily know how to draw that line, and presenting extra-biblical portrayals of God or Jesus to people like that could cause trouble. This concern isn't specific to this book, but something I realized as I read. And it made me realize why other fictionalized portrayals of Jesus have set me on edge in the past; I think what this tells me is that I need to avoid biblical fiction that is likely to include Christ himself as a character. (Though I did once read a biblical fiction book—Daughter of Cana by Angela Hunt— that showed Jesus in a private moment, and the author still used Scripture for his words, which I really appreciated.) Even beyond my concern about the character of Jesus having extra-biblical words and actions, there's also the incongruity of all of the fictional dialog with what is directly out of the Bible. Though Smith's dialog isn't exactly modern, it's different enough from NIV dialog to be a bit jolting to me.
Overall, the book fell short of my expectations, but I think many people would easily overlook the things that brought the rating down for me. So as always, please check out other reviews if you're interested in reading this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Revell for providing me a copy of this book to review.
February 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell Books for my ARC.
Jill Eileen Smith is one of my favorite Christian authors, so when I saw Dawn of Grace available on NetGalley, I immediately requested it. This is Smith’s first venture into writing a story set during New Testament times vs. Old Testament. Her novel, The Prince and the Prodigal remains one of my all-time favorite Christian reads, so naturally I was looking forward to Dawn of Grace.
Smith went straight to the heart of difficulty in tackling the story of Mary Magdalene. There has been much speculation about Mary’s backstory and how her life intersected with that of Jesus. Of the women who populate the New Testament, she is certainly the most notable (with the exception of Jesus’s mother, Mary).
In Dawn of Grace, the reader meets Mary Magdalene as a young child, then becomes witness to her life as it unfolds. From her possession by demons to being set free by Jesus, following him during his ministry years, to witnessing his crucifixion and resurrection, Smith allows us to experience events through Mary’s eyes. Carefully considered fiction weaves with historical elements, but the blend feels seamless, and Jesus’s teachings are delivered as written in the four Gospels. Those parts are much like reading scripture.
I liked the inclusion of many of the women of the New Testament—Susanna, Joanna, Martha, and Mary—to name a few—but some characters are more fleshed out than others. Given the scope of territory the novel covers and the amount of people who populate it, the author did well in bringing familiar moments (and settings) to life. Faith elements are strong, especially as related to Jesus. I got a true feel for how it must have been for the Jews of the time, expecting their Messiah to be a conquering king, questioning if Jesus was going to deliver them. Even his own disciples had doubts.
If I have one quibble, it’s the lack of emotional attachment I usually feel to the lead characters when reading one of Smith’s novels. The book skews more plot-driven than character-driven, which is perhaps why I felt a smidgen of detachment. I DID ache for Mary, especially in her fear for Jesus, and her dread that he might someday leave her.
Overall, this is a well-presented blend of plausible fiction and Biblical history woven into an uplifting tale of faith, hope, and devotion to our lord and savior, Jesus Christ. If you enjoy Biblical fiction, you’ll find this novel well worth your time.
Jill Eileen Smith is one of my favorite Christian authors, so when I saw Dawn of Grace available on NetGalley, I immediately requested it. This is Smith’s first venture into writing a story set during New Testament times vs. Old Testament. Her novel, The Prince and the Prodigal remains one of my all-time favorite Christian reads, so naturally I was looking forward to Dawn of Grace.
Smith went straight to the heart of difficulty in tackling the story of Mary Magdalene. There has been much speculation about Mary’s backstory and how her life intersected with that of Jesus. Of the women who populate the New Testament, she is certainly the most notable (with the exception of Jesus’s mother, Mary).
In Dawn of Grace, the reader meets Mary Magdalene as a young child, then becomes witness to her life as it unfolds. From her possession by demons to being set free by Jesus, following him during his ministry years, to witnessing his crucifixion and resurrection, Smith allows us to experience events through Mary’s eyes. Carefully considered fiction weaves with historical elements, but the blend feels seamless, and Jesus’s teachings are delivered as written in the four Gospels. Those parts are much like reading scripture.
I liked the inclusion of many of the women of the New Testament—Susanna, Joanna, Martha, and Mary—to name a few—but some characters are more fleshed out than others. Given the scope of territory the novel covers and the amount of people who populate it, the author did well in bringing familiar moments (and settings) to life. Faith elements are strong, especially as related to Jesus. I got a true feel for how it must have been for the Jews of the time, expecting their Messiah to be a conquering king, questioning if Jesus was going to deliver them. Even his own disciples had doubts.
If I have one quibble, it’s the lack of emotional attachment I usually feel to the lead characters when reading one of Smith’s novels. The book skews more plot-driven than character-driven, which is perhaps why I felt a smidgen of detachment. I DID ache for Mary, especially in her fear for Jesus, and her dread that he might someday leave her.
Overall, this is a well-presented blend of plausible fiction and Biblical history woven into an uplifting tale of faith, hope, and devotion to our lord and savior, Jesus Christ. If you enjoy Biblical fiction, you’ll find this novel well worth your time.
April 4, 2025
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4.
This is my first Jill Eileen Smith book and my first biblical fiction book set during Jesus’ ministry. I enjoyed the unique perspective of Mary of Magdala’s journey. It was really interesting to contemplate how it must have felt to be following Jesus during His ministry. There were some points that led me to pull my Bible out and read some of the Gospel to find parts I hadn’t noticed before. How special to get that from a book.
I also found many lessons in this book. First, when we compromise even a little with our faith, the enemy can take a mile. For example, Mary thought she asked for one, but six demons came in. Even how the demons justified her/their actions reminds me of how justifications can come so swiftly to mind when we feel we must justify our sinful behavior, as well as a reminder that the enemy really is the father of all lies. Second, we must always keep our eyes and hearts open to ministry opportunities, unlike the pharisee who focused on her father’s actions rather than praying for him, which became one reason that led Mary away from her faith.
I did feel that this book felt somewhat full of anxiety and fear for me, even during the time of Jesus’ ministry. I almost DNF’d in the beginning because of the intense reaction to some events that made me uncomfortable and even nervous. I also felt that it was mostly character-focused rather than plot. A large portion of the book is Mary’s thoughts and questions about Jesus’ teachings, and the questions were often the same or very similar. I would have enjoyed more descriptions of plot events than all the thinking we sorted through between each event.
I will say that I would be careful to remember that this is a human author portraying our God in Fiction. Because of the portrayal of Jesus, I felt I needed to be more picky with this book. There is nothing heretical about anything said, but one scene does say Jesus appeared “anxious.” As a precaution, I am always slightly more careful with fiction that portrays Jesus, so that is part of my process here. Overall, I am glad I read this book and think it was a great time to read it in preparation for Easter!
Content Guide:
Language: No language
Spice: Level 0 - No Kissing
TW: Talking with spirits/demon possession, child molestation/assault (past, implied), crucifixion, torture, death
Content Considerations: In one scene, Jesus is said to appear anxious to leave.
This is my first Jill Eileen Smith book and my first biblical fiction book set during Jesus’ ministry. I enjoyed the unique perspective of Mary of Magdala’s journey. It was really interesting to contemplate how it must have felt to be following Jesus during His ministry. There were some points that led me to pull my Bible out and read some of the Gospel to find parts I hadn’t noticed before. How special to get that from a book.
I also found many lessons in this book. First, when we compromise even a little with our faith, the enemy can take a mile. For example, Mary thought she asked for one, but six demons came in. Even how the demons justified her/their actions reminds me of how justifications can come so swiftly to mind when we feel we must justify our sinful behavior, as well as a reminder that the enemy really is the father of all lies. Second, we must always keep our eyes and hearts open to ministry opportunities, unlike the pharisee who focused on her father’s actions rather than praying for him, which became one reason that led Mary away from her faith.
I did feel that this book felt somewhat full of anxiety and fear for me, even during the time of Jesus’ ministry. I almost DNF’d in the beginning because of the intense reaction to some events that made me uncomfortable and even nervous. I also felt that it was mostly character-focused rather than plot. A large portion of the book is Mary’s thoughts and questions about Jesus’ teachings, and the questions were often the same or very similar. I would have enjoyed more descriptions of plot events than all the thinking we sorted through between each event.
I will say that I would be careful to remember that this is a human author portraying our God in Fiction. Because of the portrayal of Jesus, I felt I needed to be more picky with this book. There is nothing heretical about anything said, but one scene does say Jesus appeared “anxious.” As a precaution, I am always slightly more careful with fiction that portrays Jesus, so that is part of my process here. Overall, I am glad I read this book and think it was a great time to read it in preparation for Easter!
Content Guide:
Language: No language
Spice: Level 0 - No Kissing
TW: Talking with spirits/demon possession, child molestation/assault (past, implied), crucifixion, torture, death
Content Considerations: In one scene, Jesus is said to appear anxious to leave.
September 18, 2025
I love that the authors I have come to respect over the years and reading their work, reflect the grace of Jesus. In the story of Mary Magdalene, the grace shown is authentic. A balance of truth and grace. Many times truth is pitted against grace or vice versa. However, in this account, you start with Mary and what her life may have been like. Coming from a well to do family, getting engaged and then Mary opens herself up to idols and 7 demons control her mind and body.
This account may seem ancient and begs the question how does this affect me in my every day life is answered by biblical truth. What we think and believe really matters. Mary was dealing with an arranged marriage, uncertainty, and ultimately the loss of her father. How this opens our hearts for despair and the occult.
The first half the books deals with Mary and the 2nd half of when Mary meets Jesus and his followers. When Jesus casts the spirits from her, her life changes and her eyes are open. All she wants is Jesus. However, she is consumed with another fear- will she lose Jesus. The account shares the New Testament accounts and then of course how leaders plotted against Jesus when their power was threatened. The Kingdom of God threatens those whose hearts are set on power and greed. Ultimately, Mary saw that grace displayed and the purpose of God in her life.
I loved this story because it reflects all of us. Our fears and changing our heart desires to God. Finding purpose in Christ is the ultimate grace!
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
This account may seem ancient and begs the question how does this affect me in my every day life is answered by biblical truth. What we think and believe really matters. Mary was dealing with an arranged marriage, uncertainty, and ultimately the loss of her father. How this opens our hearts for despair and the occult.
The first half the books deals with Mary and the 2nd half of when Mary meets Jesus and his followers. When Jesus casts the spirits from her, her life changes and her eyes are open. All she wants is Jesus. However, she is consumed with another fear- will she lose Jesus. The account shares the New Testament accounts and then of course how leaders plotted against Jesus when their power was threatened. The Kingdom of God threatens those whose hearts are set on power and greed. Ultimately, Mary saw that grace displayed and the purpose of God in her life.
I loved this story because it reflects all of us. Our fears and changing our heart desires to God. Finding purpose in Christ is the ultimate grace!
A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 19, 2025
"Dawn of Grace" shares the story of Mary Magdalene, a woman possessed by demons until she met a man named Jesus. The first part of this book offers a look at a woman who lost her mother at an early age, never felt loved by her father, and endured the torture of being possessed by demons. I found these accounts especially difficult to read! And then, she was rescued by a Rabbi who knew her inner thoughts and successfully drove the demons away. Was it any wonder that Mary Magdalene would become such a devoted follower? Why wouldn't she idolize the person who rescued her from a life of pain and misery?
Author Jill Eileen Smith normally writes biblical fiction set in Old Testament times but this book has a New Testament setting. Smith admits that she relied heavily on the four Gospels to help her weave facts into fiction into a story that covered Jesus's ministry and the events that led to His death and Resurrection. I enjoyed reading about the other women who became followers and I was especially moved by Mary Magdalene's grief and devotion after His death. She was determined to care for Jesus's body, bewildered when she found his empty tomb and overjoyed by the assurance that He would return! I love biblical fiction that sends me back to the source and this was the case as I read this engaging story. I recommend "Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene's Story" to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
Author Jill Eileen Smith normally writes biblical fiction set in Old Testament times but this book has a New Testament setting. Smith admits that she relied heavily on the four Gospels to help her weave facts into fiction into a story that covered Jesus's ministry and the events that led to His death and Resurrection. I enjoyed reading about the other women who became followers and I was especially moved by Mary Magdalene's grief and devotion after His death. She was determined to care for Jesus's body, bewildered when she found his empty tomb and overjoyed by the assurance that He would return! I love biblical fiction that sends me back to the source and this was the case as I read this engaging story. I recommend "Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene's Story" to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
April 9, 2025
Have you ever wondered what Biblical figures’ lives were like beyond the verses we find in the Scriptures? For example, what did they feel, experience, and think in the quiet moments not recorded or mentioned in the Bible? Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith explores precisely that and does so beautifully.
This moving work of Christian biblical fiction powerfully and imaginatively brings Mary Magdalene’s story to life. Grounded in the truths of the Bible, the author adds fictional dimensions that bring the characters and events to life in a way that is relatable and deeply human.
Jill Eileen Smith does an excellent job of weaving together the facts in the Bible with engaging storytelling. This powerful and emotional book invites the reader to step into Mary Magdalene’s world and view some familiar accounts from a new perspective.
As someone who often wonders what people in the Bible were like in their daily tasks and moments, I found this book satisfying in answering those questions. It provides a voice to the silent spaces between the lines of Scripture.
If you enjoy historical fiction based on real people and events in the Bible and designed to deepen your faith and understanding of the Bible, Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith is a must-read. Its heartfelt and thought-inspiring message is truly memorable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
This moving work of Christian biblical fiction powerfully and imaginatively brings Mary Magdalene’s story to life. Grounded in the truths of the Bible, the author adds fictional dimensions that bring the characters and events to life in a way that is relatable and deeply human.
Jill Eileen Smith does an excellent job of weaving together the facts in the Bible with engaging storytelling. This powerful and emotional book invites the reader to step into Mary Magdalene’s world and view some familiar accounts from a new perspective.
As someone who often wonders what people in the Bible were like in their daily tasks and moments, I found this book satisfying in answering those questions. It provides a voice to the silent spaces between the lines of Scripture.
If you enjoy historical fiction based on real people and events in the Bible and designed to deepen your faith and understanding of the Bible, Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith is a must-read. Its heartfelt and thought-inspiring message is truly memorable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
February 20, 2025
Well I have certainly learned something new. I have grown up in the church. My dad was, and still is, a pastor. I have read the Bible for myself since I was a little girl. I can't tell you the number of times I've read the Bible all the way through.
And I have always thought that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute.
Why did I think that? I have no idea! But there is no Biblical evidence that she was. My mind is blown.
That's one of the many reasons I love Biblical fiction: I feel like I learn something new each time I read a Bibfic book.
All that aside, this book was good. I was thoroughly invested in Mary's story, though I felt that she found Jesus maybe a little too early in the book. Don't get me wrong-the rest of the book was good. But I think there could have been more at the beginning.
But after she met Jesus, I did enjoy seeing the day to day life of a disciple. I know many people won't read this genre because they don't feel that it aligns with Scripture, they don't want this to become Scripture to them, etc. But Jill does a wonderful job of sticking to the Word of God. In fact, almost every word that Jesus said here comes straight from Scripture. And the Passover week? Whew. Nothing could have prepared me for those emotions.
This book made the Bible living, breathing history for me.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through Interviews & Reviews. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
And I have always thought that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute.
Why did I think that? I have no idea! But there is no Biblical evidence that she was. My mind is blown.
That's one of the many reasons I love Biblical fiction: I feel like I learn something new each time I read a Bibfic book.
All that aside, this book was good. I was thoroughly invested in Mary's story, though I felt that she found Jesus maybe a little too early in the book. Don't get me wrong-the rest of the book was good. But I think there could have been more at the beginning.
But after she met Jesus, I did enjoy seeing the day to day life of a disciple. I know many people won't read this genre because they don't feel that it aligns with Scripture, they don't want this to become Scripture to them, etc. But Jill does a wonderful job of sticking to the Word of God. In fact, almost every word that Jesus said here comes straight from Scripture. And the Passover week? Whew. Nothing could have prepared me for those emotions.
This book made the Bible living, breathing history for me.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through Interviews & Reviews. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
March 27, 2025
Mary Magdalene’s story as researched, imagined, and told by Jill Eileen Smith, is an interesting one. Mary’s transformation from innocent girl to demon possessed woman was plausibly realistic enough to be unsettling at times, and definitely thought provoking. Her subsequent transformation to faithful follower of Jesus, after he cast out the demons oppressing her, was beautiful and truly inspiring.
For these reasons, I’m glad to have read the book. Even so, I did find the second half somewhat less engaging than the first half. The premise was good: a retelling of Jesus' ministry from a fresh perspective. But without a clear goal on the part of the main character, beyond helping facilitate Jesus' ministry, she became more of a passive observer than an active participant, in a story I already know quite well.
Interesting as it was to see Mary's reactions to familiar events, I think the reading experience could have been even better, had I also had something more to root for on Mary's behalf, or something unique to her story to keep me guessing up to the end.
All in all, a good read, especially well suited for the Easter season, when a fresh look at Jesus' story may be just what readers are looking for.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an Advance Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.
For these reasons, I’m glad to have read the book. Even so, I did find the second half somewhat less engaging than the first half. The premise was good: a retelling of Jesus' ministry from a fresh perspective. But without a clear goal on the part of the main character, beyond helping facilitate Jesus' ministry, she became more of a passive observer than an active participant, in a story I already know quite well.
Interesting as it was to see Mary's reactions to familiar events, I think the reading experience could have been even better, had I also had something more to root for on Mary's behalf, or something unique to her story to keep me guessing up to the end.
All in all, a good read, especially well suited for the Easter season, when a fresh look at Jesus' story may be just what readers are looking for.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an Advance Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.
April 10, 2025
In Jill Eileen Smith’s latest novel, Dawn of Grace, the radiant light of grace effortlessly illuminates the spiritual darkness. The scriptures pulsate with life as we delve into the captivating world through the eyes of Mary of Magdala, an often misunderstood disciple.
This compelling book vividly explores Mary’s past, her demon possession, and miraculous healing, transporting readers into a world of profound spiritual awakening. Exploring famous biblical settings in the story immerses readers in Jesus’ ministry. The fast-paced narrative gently guides the imagination through intimate moments, like sitting around a crackling campfire with the enigmatic rabbi. Witnessing his miraculous healings and reimagining his teachings through the protagonist’s perspective is the core of the book.
The narrative weaves spiritual insights into every chapter, inviting readers to reflect deeply. Embark on a journey with Mary through a profound spiritual quest, where the mundane transforms into the extraordinary, awakening a deep-rooted faith in the soul as she discovers that the offerings of Jesus extend beyond mere healing. Fans of Biblical Fiction won’t be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This compelling book vividly explores Mary’s past, her demon possession, and miraculous healing, transporting readers into a world of profound spiritual awakening. Exploring famous biblical settings in the story immerses readers in Jesus’ ministry. The fast-paced narrative gently guides the imagination through intimate moments, like sitting around a crackling campfire with the enigmatic rabbi. Witnessing his miraculous healings and reimagining his teachings through the protagonist’s perspective is the core of the book.
The narrative weaves spiritual insights into every chapter, inviting readers to reflect deeply. Embark on a journey with Mary through a profound spiritual quest, where the mundane transforms into the extraordinary, awakening a deep-rooted faith in the soul as she discovers that the offerings of Jesus extend beyond mere healing. Fans of Biblical Fiction won’t be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 28, 2025
Dawn of Grace is a wonderful Biblical fiction story that is going to take you into the world of Mary Magdalene and the man who saved her. And of course, we know that that man was Jesus. I can’t help but feel that we all can relate to her somewhat. While we might not have literal demons within us, we all have given ourselves to sin. We’ve all felt that draw, that addiction, if you will, to something. And maybe we’ve had to rely on Jesus/God to help us overcome.
And He will! And He did!
What a wonderful and powerful testimony! As Easter approaches and passes, we can think of what she went through and her utter devotion to Him. She comes to the tomb after the Sabbath to dress the body. Only the body isn’t there!
I loved this look into a wonderful woman of the Bible. An example of how something utterly worldly, utterly sinful, can be taken and moulded and made into something new that can shine the light and draw others to Christ.
This was an amazing novel and I cannot wait to dive into another just like it.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
And He will! And He did!
What a wonderful and powerful testimony! As Easter approaches and passes, we can think of what she went through and her utter devotion to Him. She comes to the tomb after the Sabbath to dress the body. Only the body isn’t there!
I loved this look into a wonderful woman of the Bible. An example of how something utterly worldly, utterly sinful, can be taken and moulded and made into something new that can shine the light and draw others to Christ.
This was an amazing novel and I cannot wait to dive into another just like it.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
April 17, 2025
This is a well researched Biblical fiction story of Mary Magdalene that perfectly balances the life of Christ with the what could have been Mary’s life story. It is a beautiful book from the cover to the last page as Mary finds freedom in the Messiah. I have been fascinated with her life since my mom spent weeks researching her life and wrote a dramatization and performed it in numerous churches. My mother would have loved to have read this. This book made me feel like I was walking those dusty roads following Jesus and taking in His words as he taught the multitudes and his disciples. Words can bring things to life that you already know and carry in your heart and that is what is accomplished in this book. I loved reading about the women and their friendships as they followed and prepared food and support. They were a dedicated group that also provided financial support and encouragement. May we be willing to follow even more closely after experiencing this story, as that is the world I would choose to describe it, an emotional experience. Well written and you will be immersed and not want to stop reading.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Revell. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Revell. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
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