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The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside
She’s always looking on the bright side...
Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for twenty-two years and two months, precisely.
So when she is offered a bed in St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head.
But with St Jude’s threatened with closure, Dawn worries that everything is about to crumble around her all over again.
Perhaps, with a little help from her new friends, she can find a way to save this light in the darkness?
And maybe, just maybe, Dawn will finally have a place to call home….
Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for twenty-two years and two months, precisely.
So when she is offered a bed in St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head.
But with St Jude’s threatened with closure, Dawn worries that everything is about to crumble around her all over again.
Perhaps, with a little help from her new friends, she can find a way to save this light in the darkness?
And maybe, just maybe, Dawn will finally have a place to call home….
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2020
89 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Ryn
4 books38 followersJessica Ryn is a former midwife and homeless resettlement worker. She has recently completed her MA in Creative Writing at CCCU, and her stories have been shortlisted for the Kimberly Chambers’ Kickstarter Award, Wordsmag and the Val Wood Prize for Creative Writing. When she’s not scribbling away, Jessica can be found meandering through the woods, reading stories that pull on the feel-strings and eating yoghurt-covered skittles. Jessica lives in Dover with her husband, two children and their high-spirited springer spaniel. The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
April 28, 2020
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**3.5 stars**
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside. (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; due to be published 18 May 2020**
When Dawn is offered a bed at St Jude's Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head. Dawn has been running from her past for 22 years but she's finally found a group of people who need her and she can rebuild her life. When she discovers St Jude's is facing closure, Dawn is determined to find a way to save this beacon of hope. But when her past finally catches up with her, will her new life crumble around her once again?
I had mixed feelings about this one really. The start felt a bit slow and not smooth. But by halfway I had settled into the story and liked it well enough. The narrative is actually alternated between Dawn and the hostel manager, a young lady named Grace. Dawn was quite scattered, albeit very kind hearted and genuinely wanting to help the other residents. Grace was a very lovely person who was trying to keep the hostel going despite any difficulties faced. While I wasn't really into it in the beginning, by the end I was hoping that everything would work out for the hostel so it definitely grew on me. A good debut for the author and one I think that a lot of readers would like.
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**3.5 stars**
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside. (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; due to be published 18 May 2020**
When Dawn is offered a bed at St Jude's Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head. Dawn has been running from her past for 22 years but she's finally found a group of people who need her and she can rebuild her life. When she discovers St Jude's is facing closure, Dawn is determined to find a way to save this beacon of hope. But when her past finally catches up with her, will her new life crumble around her once again?
I had mixed feelings about this one really. The start felt a bit slow and not smooth. But by halfway I had settled into the story and liked it well enough. The narrative is actually alternated between Dawn and the hostel manager, a young lady named Grace. Dawn was quite scattered, albeit very kind hearted and genuinely wanting to help the other residents. Grace was a very lovely person who was trying to keep the hostel going despite any difficulties faced. While I wasn't really into it in the beginning, by the end I was hoping that everything would work out for the hostel so it definitely grew on me. A good debut for the author and one I think that a lot of readers would like.
November 19, 2020
The story is beautiful, sad and happy at the same time. It reminds me that no matter how bad things are, there are people worse off in the world. And they still keep going.
Dawn Brightside is extraordinary on her own and the way she keeps thinking positive is just miraculous. Her character is mysterious, and I kept guessing and wondering what had happened to her and to her daughter. I also really like how you slowly get to know the events that lead to the present moment.
Like I said, there’s so much sadness and happiness in this book. The characters have all faced more hardships than I hopefully ever will and I was so, so happy when they all got their more or less happy endings. But I was especially happy for Dawn, because she truly deserves all happiness she can get.
All in all, a brilliant and deep story of homelessness and how to maintain hope through the hardest bits of life.
I also quite liked the narrator of the book. Their voice was pleasant to listen to and I think that’s all that matters really. I would give them 4 out of 5 stars.
*ARC received from the publisher via Netgalley
Dawn Brightside is extraordinary on her own and the way she keeps thinking positive is just miraculous. Her character is mysterious, and I kept guessing and wondering what had happened to her and to her daughter. I also really like how you slowly get to know the events that lead to the present moment.
Like I said, there’s so much sadness and happiness in this book. The characters have all faced more hardships than I hopefully ever will and I was so, so happy when they all got their more or less happy endings. But I was especially happy for Dawn, because she truly deserves all happiness she can get.
All in all, a brilliant and deep story of homelessness and how to maintain hope through the hardest bits of life.
I also quite liked the narrator of the book. Their voice was pleasant to listen to and I think that’s all that matters really. I would give them 4 out of 5 stars.
*ARC received from the publisher via Netgalley
June 7, 2020
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is a moving and uplifting contemporary novel from debut novelist, Jessica Ryn.
Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for more than two decades. Offered a place at St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless in Dover she finally thinks she may have found somewhere to she can stay.
Focusing on the issues of homelessness and mental health, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is set in Dover, England. St Jude’s is a refuge that provides accomodation and social support to homeless people staffed by a dedicated and idealistic social worker, Grace and a former client, Peter. Dawn quickly settles into the hostel, fighting the familiar impulse to flee, and befriending several of the residents.
Though I thought the story felt a little slow to begin with, the pace improved as it unfolded.
The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Dawn and Grace, and Ryn portrays both women with compassion and nuance. Dawn tends to be sidetracked by florid daydreams, and sometimes fails to distinguish reality from fantasy. Many of her delusions centre around Rosie, Dawn’s daughter, though whether she actually exists or not, is unclear for much of the novel. Despite her mental health issues, Dawn is a largely an optimist and always eager to help others, and when she learns that St Jude’s is in danger of closing she is determined to save it.
As is Grace who feels deeply for her clients, and is worried that she isn’t good enough to do right by them.
A story of heart, humour and humanity, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is an engaging read.
Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for more than two decades. Offered a place at St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless in Dover she finally thinks she may have found somewhere to she can stay.
Focusing on the issues of homelessness and mental health, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is set in Dover, England. St Jude’s is a refuge that provides accomodation and social support to homeless people staffed by a dedicated and idealistic social worker, Grace and a former client, Peter. Dawn quickly settles into the hostel, fighting the familiar impulse to flee, and befriending several of the residents.
Though I thought the story felt a little slow to begin with, the pace improved as it unfolded.
The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Dawn and Grace, and Ryn portrays both women with compassion and nuance. Dawn tends to be sidetracked by florid daydreams, and sometimes fails to distinguish reality from fantasy. Many of her delusions centre around Rosie, Dawn’s daughter, though whether she actually exists or not, is unclear for much of the novel. Despite her mental health issues, Dawn is a largely an optimist and always eager to help others, and when she learns that St Jude’s is in danger of closing she is determined to save it.
As is Grace who feels deeply for her clients, and is worried that she isn’t good enough to do right by them.
A story of heart, humour and humanity, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is an engaging read.
April 21, 2020
I loved this book, it was the perfect read for the current time. Such a heart-warming wonderful story, it's hard not to love Dawn Brightside she radiates positivity even after all the hardship she has endured and so selfless, she is someone you would love to meet in real life.
I would be lying if I said this book didn't bring a tear to my eye on a couple of occasions, you will need your tissues! Great uplifting feel-good story that still manages to deliver an important message, dealing with current issues, it really hit me at certain stages of the book that this could be so many peoples story and that was emotional.
I won't forget this book anytime soon, it left me with a smile on my face. Excellent writing that makes for such easy reading. This is such a fab debut book and I would absolutely love to read another installment from St Judes! Brilliant read, i can't recommend this enough.
I would be lying if I said this book didn't bring a tear to my eye on a couple of occasions, you will need your tissues! Great uplifting feel-good story that still manages to deliver an important message, dealing with current issues, it really hit me at certain stages of the book that this could be so many peoples story and that was emotional.
I won't forget this book anytime soon, it left me with a smile on my face. Excellent writing that makes for such easy reading. This is such a fab debut book and I would absolutely love to read another installment from St Judes! Brilliant read, i can't recommend this enough.
November 28, 2020
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is a heart-warming uplifting tale of hope and humanity. The titular character, Dawn, is a homeless woman in Dover who finally finds a place to call home. And she will do everything she can do hold onto it. It’s both eye-opening and soothing to read this book.
The characters are incredibly easy to root for. And the more you get to know them, the more you realise they’re loveable from every angle. Dawn is very much the heart of the story. All you ever want to do is give her a big hug and remind her she deserves love. Similarly, Grace is a sweet and naturally loving character. As a social worker, she has the kind of optimism that inspires people to hope for the best.
I really like that the author included painful and traumatic backstories in the book. It adds to its depth and forces the reader to examine their own prejudgements of those around them. This moving story has themes of loneliness, belonging, and regret. But despite its weight, the book has an upbeat tone. I guess that’s just the extraordinary hope of Dawn Brightside shining through.
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The characters are incredibly easy to root for. And the more you get to know them, the more you realise they’re loveable from every angle. Dawn is very much the heart of the story. All you ever want to do is give her a big hug and remind her she deserves love. Similarly, Grace is a sweet and naturally loving character. As a social worker, she has the kind of optimism that inspires people to hope for the best.
I really like that the author included painful and traumatic backstories in the book. It adds to its depth and forces the reader to examine their own prejudgements of those around them. This moving story has themes of loneliness, belonging, and regret. But despite its weight, the book has an upbeat tone. I guess that’s just the extraordinary hope of Dawn Brightside shining through.
For more book reviews and posts, check out my blog or follow along on Instagram 📚✨
April 11, 2020
This is a wonderfully uplifting and hopeful book about homelessness. It centres around two women, one of which is Dawn Brightside of the title. The second is Grace, the young, idealistic manager of a hostel for homeless people called St Judes. Dawn is homeless and is running away from a man with red hair. She is skittish and obviously has some form of mental health issues but she is also kind-hearted and befriends a young man who is also sleeping out in the park. They both apply for a bed at St Jude's and she gets it, and she feels horribly guilty as he doesn't.
This is a book that deals with big issues but on the whole, is an easy read and except for one section upbeat and non-challenging. I never thought a book that deals with such difficult subject matter could leave me smiling so much.
This is a book that deals with big issues but on the whole, is an easy read and except for one section upbeat and non-challenging. I never thought a book that deals with such difficult subject matter could leave me smiling so much.
November 26, 2020
This is a story of kindness and hope. It is a charming read about Dawn who needs to get as far away as she can, when she is offered a bed at St Jude's hostel she is over the moon, can she make a better go at living a fairly normal life? Will life be plain sailing or will it come crashing down again? I really liked Dawn and wanted the best for her. I am sure people can relate to her story and also we get to see the lives of the other characters which could be relatable too. I feel like in times like these we need books to be uplifting and promising warmth and with Jessica's writing we get the best of both worlds.
January 1, 2021
Not at all what I expected when I started reading and definitely a slow burn to start with; however the more I read, the more I found myself drawn to the eclectic and loveable cast of characters.
The plot held a few surprising twists and turns, while the writing dealt with some particularly heavy topics in a delicate and optimistic manner.
Overall, a heartwarming story about homelessness, mental health and the power of hope. Loved it.
The plot held a few surprising twists and turns, while the writing dealt with some particularly heavy topics in a delicate and optimistic manner.
Overall, a heartwarming story about homelessness, mental health and the power of hope. Loved it.
May 27, 2020
I confess that when I started reading this book, I had no idea what it was about - I didn't even glimpse at the blurb, but I'm glad I went into it clueless because it allowed me to get to know these wonderful characters and follow their stories in the most organically way possible.
I loved every single storyline, but Dawn's was doubtlessly my favourite. I am ashamed to say that I was quick to judge her and that I was annoyed by her at the beginning when I didn't understand her behaviour and the reasons behind her incessant lying. I kept theorising about why was she obsessed with her a daughter, who wasn't part of her life. I was also super curious to know why she was homeless, alone and wholly lost before she arrived at St Jude's Hostel for the Homeless.
The more I knew about Dawn, the more I liked her, especially when I finally understood what had happened to her over twenty years ago. Needless to say, my heart was in pieces the minute everything started to make sense, and immediately regretted having judged her so quickly. The discovery of her past sent me into an endless spiral of thinking about how many women out there are experiencing something similar? In how many unimaginable paths can untreated trauma develop? My only complaint is that I would have loved to see more about Dawn's coping mechanisms once the truth was out... personally, it felt like this substantial emotional package was dealt pretty swiftly.
Ultimately, this book isn't only about Dawn. Many adorable and heart-warming characters do not disappoint, and that make this story the definition of page-turning. I learned to care so much for Grace, and the well-being of all the people living and working at St Jude's. I got to experience an extraordinary book about love, friendships, forgiveness, hope and acceptance.
Overall, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside it's beautiful, and I won't get tired of recommending it to anyone who cares to listen. This book moved to tears and made me feel hopeful, happy and grateful for all the things I have in my life that I usually take for granted. If you need some lovin', I urge you to give it a go!
I loved every single storyline, but Dawn's was doubtlessly my favourite. I am ashamed to say that I was quick to judge her and that I was annoyed by her at the beginning when I didn't understand her behaviour and the reasons behind her incessant lying. I kept theorising about why was she obsessed with her a daughter, who wasn't part of her life. I was also super curious to know why she was homeless, alone and wholly lost before she arrived at St Jude's Hostel for the Homeless.
The more I knew about Dawn, the more I liked her, especially when I finally understood what had happened to her over twenty years ago. Needless to say, my heart was in pieces the minute everything started to make sense, and immediately regretted having judged her so quickly. The discovery of her past sent me into an endless spiral of thinking about how many women out there are experiencing something similar? In how many unimaginable paths can untreated trauma develop? My only complaint is that I would have loved to see more about Dawn's coping mechanisms once the truth was out... personally, it felt like this substantial emotional package was dealt pretty swiftly.
Ultimately, this book isn't only about Dawn. Many adorable and heart-warming characters do not disappoint, and that make this story the definition of page-turning. I learned to care so much for Grace, and the well-being of all the people living and working at St Jude's. I got to experience an extraordinary book about love, friendships, forgiveness, hope and acceptance.
Overall, The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside it's beautiful, and I won't get tired of recommending it to anyone who cares to listen. This book moved to tears and made me feel hopeful, happy and grateful for all the things I have in my life that I usually take for granted. If you need some lovin', I urge you to give it a go!
November 16, 2025
a real depiction of what it’s like working in the homeless sector and refreshing to see it written down! sweet ending and loved the overriding theme of HOPE
November 29, 2020
"And if being at St Jude's has taught me anything, it's that you need to find your tribe. The rest of the journey's not designed to be a solo one. Group tickets always offer the best value."
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is a truly special book. The definition of 'uplit', it is one of those books that feels like a warm hug or a hot chocolate on a cold day. It will make you laugh and cry. It will steal your heart and make a permanent home in your soul.
I adored the colourful cast of compelling and very real characters. I liked that the author showed their humanity and personality rather than making them a cliché. She makes their experiences leap from the page, transports you into their world and makes you live every moment alongside them.
Dawn is quite the character. She is damaged, flawed and unreliable but also hopeful, joyous and endearing. Despite being down on her luck and going through some very traumatic things, she sees the silver lining - the 'bright side' you might say - and encourages others to do the same. She cares deeply about others and becomes a real light in the lives of those around her. She is a character I won't forget and I challenge anyone not to fall in love with her too.
This was a very nostalgic book for me as my father was a manager for the YMCA and we lived on-site for three years when I was twelve to fifteen. The experience made a huge impact and is a big part of who I am today. The residents became like family and we are still in touch with a number of them even now. All the memories of that time came flooding back while reading and it was clear to me that the author knew her stuff. This felt authentic. So I wasn't surprised to learn she'd worked with the homeless and had even lived on-site too.
But while this is a very uplifting book, it also addresses serious topics such as mental health, addiction and homelessness. She examines these things on a deeper level, commenting on the perception and judgement of the homeless or with mental health or addiction issues, the underfunding of homeless hostels and the degradation of applying for sickness benefits, something I personally related to as someone unable to work because of chronic illness. But she has a talent for doing all of this without bringing the mood down, balancing gritty realism with a humour and optimism that is reminiscent of Dawn.
Addictive, heartbreaking, hopeful, evocative, entertaining, warm and emotionally resonant, this is a remarkable debut. This book has arrived at the perfect time; Dawn's kindness and positivity is something we all need more of right now. READ THIS BOOK!
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is a truly special book. The definition of 'uplit', it is one of those books that feels like a warm hug or a hot chocolate on a cold day. It will make you laugh and cry. It will steal your heart and make a permanent home in your soul.
I adored the colourful cast of compelling and very real characters. I liked that the author showed their humanity and personality rather than making them a cliché. She makes their experiences leap from the page, transports you into their world and makes you live every moment alongside them.
Dawn is quite the character. She is damaged, flawed and unreliable but also hopeful, joyous and endearing. Despite being down on her luck and going through some very traumatic things, she sees the silver lining - the 'bright side' you might say - and encourages others to do the same. She cares deeply about others and becomes a real light in the lives of those around her. She is a character I won't forget and I challenge anyone not to fall in love with her too.
This was a very nostalgic book for me as my father was a manager for the YMCA and we lived on-site for three years when I was twelve to fifteen. The experience made a huge impact and is a big part of who I am today. The residents became like family and we are still in touch with a number of them even now. All the memories of that time came flooding back while reading and it was clear to me that the author knew her stuff. This felt authentic. So I wasn't surprised to learn she'd worked with the homeless and had even lived on-site too.
But while this is a very uplifting book, it also addresses serious topics such as mental health, addiction and homelessness. She examines these things on a deeper level, commenting on the perception and judgement of the homeless or with mental health or addiction issues, the underfunding of homeless hostels and the degradation of applying for sickness benefits, something I personally related to as someone unable to work because of chronic illness. But she has a talent for doing all of this without bringing the mood down, balancing gritty realism with a humour and optimism that is reminiscent of Dawn.
Addictive, heartbreaking, hopeful, evocative, entertaining, warm and emotionally resonant, this is a remarkable debut. This book has arrived at the perfect time; Dawn's kindness and positivity is something we all need more of right now. READ THIS BOOK!
December 17, 2020
This was a lovely audiobook! It was much more poignant than I was expecting, and really highlighted how easy it is to find yourself in hard times. I loved Dawn, who was quirky 'Brightside, one word' and her ability to find real bargains really made me smile!
I loved the ending, and finished the final sentences with a smile on my face!
The narrator was hard to listen at times because she had a slightly high pitched tone to her voice, but I think it suited Dawn well, the accent was great!
I loved the ending, and finished the final sentences with a smile on my face!
The narrator was hard to listen at times because she had a slightly high pitched tone to her voice, but I think it suited Dawn well, the accent was great!
June 4, 2021
Finished reading: June 3rd 2021
"Whoever invented the English language should have made more words. Better ones, that are up to the job for conversations like this."
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
December 7, 2020
This was a fabulous audiobook, a real feel good listen, with a wonderful cast of characters that I cared about and wanted the best for.
The story is told by Dawn Brightside a new resident at St. Jude’s and by Grace the manager of the hostel. Both women have back stories from their childhoods and adult lives which are revealed as the story progresses. I loved both characters, but Dawn has found a special place in my heart because of her sunny personality. Grace has to work at being positive whereas it just comes naturally to Dawn.
I loved meeting all the different residents of the hostel and how they all came together to try and save the hostel from closure. I could imagine this being made into a film, as they were some key scenes that would transfer so well to the screen.
Although this story deals with a myriad of serious issues, homelessness, alcoholism, drug addict, child neglect, mental heath and assault, it’s not depressing at all. It’s a wonderful book full of characters who felt like real people. It shone an important light on the hidden lives of homeless people who need a hand and need to be treated like humans so they can get their lives back on track.
The narration by Joan Walker was great, a new-to-me narrator who I’ll definitely be on the look out for in the future. She brought Dawn, Grace and all the other characters to life perfectly.
This is definitely my one of favourite listens this year, and I highly recommend it if you enjoy feel good contemporary fiction.
Thanks so to NetGalley and HQ for my digital copy via the NetGalley App.
The story is told by Dawn Brightside a new resident at St. Jude’s and by Grace the manager of the hostel. Both women have back stories from their childhoods and adult lives which are revealed as the story progresses. I loved both characters, but Dawn has found a special place in my heart because of her sunny personality. Grace has to work at being positive whereas it just comes naturally to Dawn.
I loved meeting all the different residents of the hostel and how they all came together to try and save the hostel from closure. I could imagine this being made into a film, as they were some key scenes that would transfer so well to the screen.
Although this story deals with a myriad of serious issues, homelessness, alcoholism, drug addict, child neglect, mental heath and assault, it’s not depressing at all. It’s a wonderful book full of characters who felt like real people. It shone an important light on the hidden lives of homeless people who need a hand and need to be treated like humans so they can get their lives back on track.
The narration by Joan Walker was great, a new-to-me narrator who I’ll definitely be on the look out for in the future. She brought Dawn, Grace and all the other characters to life perfectly.
This is definitely my one of favourite listens this year, and I highly recommend it if you enjoy feel good contemporary fiction.
Thanks so to NetGalley and HQ for my digital copy via the NetGalley App.
November 26, 2020
The Extraordinary Hope Of Dawn Brightside by Jessica Ryn is a wonderful feel-good contemporary novel about love and friendship that will leave you smiling and full of hope. When you know Dawn Brightside, the world looks sunnier.
All the characters are delightfully drawn and realistic. Dawn Brightside is a breath of fresh air. She is always positive, lighting up lives and rooms wherever she goes. She makes the world a better place.
The novel surrounds St Judes hostel for the homeless. Here, people from all walks of life come together and function as a family. Life has dealt some rough hands but in St Judes there is always hope.
Sometimes people are prejudiced against those who are different to them. Within the novel we see everyone as an individual with needs and a place in the world. No one is seen as a label. Many are recovering addicts. We hear their painful backstories. No one chooses to be homeless, life happens. Everyone needs love, hope and kindness.
Jessica Ryn has produced a fabulous debut novel. I cannot wait for her to write more, more, more.
Give yourself a treat and brighten up your life with a copy of The Extraordinary Hope Of Dawn Brightside today.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
All the characters are delightfully drawn and realistic. Dawn Brightside is a breath of fresh air. She is always positive, lighting up lives and rooms wherever she goes. She makes the world a better place.
The novel surrounds St Judes hostel for the homeless. Here, people from all walks of life come together and function as a family. Life has dealt some rough hands but in St Judes there is always hope.
Sometimes people are prejudiced against those who are different to them. Within the novel we see everyone as an individual with needs and a place in the world. No one is seen as a label. Many are recovering addicts. We hear their painful backstories. No one chooses to be homeless, life happens. Everyone needs love, hope and kindness.
Jessica Ryn has produced a fabulous debut novel. I cannot wait for her to write more, more, more.
Give yourself a treat and brighten up your life with a copy of The Extraordinary Hope Of Dawn Brightside today.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 30, 2020
The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside by Jessica Ryn - publish date 20 may 2020
A sincere thank you to the publisher, author and Netgalley for providing me an ebook copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is not my usual genre, I’m more of a crime/thriller reader however this story intrigued me. I absolutely loved it, truly one of the best books I have read. I am extremely pleased and grateful to both for opening up my mind to something totally different.
I won’t say much without revealing too much of the magic held within these pages. It is a story of strength and resilience; hope out of despair; and triumph over obstacles. It’s such a current issue just now with all the media coverage of mental health issues and how they contribute to such a massive homeless issue too.
I absolutely loved Dawn Brightside and wished that I knew her after travelling with her along her journey of courage, self discovery and in regaining her autonomy. Moreover how her presence changes all the lives around her. As I’ve said I won’t post any spoilers but I can not recommend this book highly enough. 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A sincere thank you to the publisher, author and Netgalley for providing me an ebook copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is not my usual genre, I’m more of a crime/thriller reader however this story intrigued me. I absolutely loved it, truly one of the best books I have read. I am extremely pleased and grateful to both for opening up my mind to something totally different.
I won’t say much without revealing too much of the magic held within these pages. It is a story of strength and resilience; hope out of despair; and triumph over obstacles. It’s such a current issue just now with all the media coverage of mental health issues and how they contribute to such a massive homeless issue too.
I absolutely loved Dawn Brightside and wished that I knew her after travelling with her along her journey of courage, self discovery and in regaining her autonomy. Moreover how her presence changes all the lives around her. As I’ve said I won’t post any spoilers but I can not recommend this book highly enough. 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 3, 2021
I loved this book.
From the synopsis and the front cover I had assumed it would be a Chick-Lit style novel but in reality it was so much more. If I were to describe it in one sentence it would be an upbeat book about homelessness.
Grace is only 22, but she's the manager of a hostel for the homeless of Dover. She is a lovely character, full of empathy and understanding for the people who, often through no fault of their own, have fallen on hard times and found themselves without a roof over their heads. Her assistant, Peter was once a residence of St Jude's Hostel and also understands how important the place is.
When one spare room comes available, it is Dawn who is the lucky recipient. She's been fearful to stop still anywhere for over 20 years but she loves living at St Jude's and begins to hope that things might change for her.
True to form, spending cuts threaten the future of the hostel and the residents must fight or find themselves sleeping rough again.
This is a fascinating insight into homelessness and some of the causes that result in people losing their homes. It also covers some aspects of mental illness with warmth and understanding.
I wasn't a fan of the narrator, her voice lacked enthusiasm, but the excellent writing of Jessica Ryn was enough to override that and I highly recommend this debut novel.
From the synopsis and the front cover I had assumed it would be a Chick-Lit style novel but in reality it was so much more. If I were to describe it in one sentence it would be an upbeat book about homelessness.
Grace is only 22, but she's the manager of a hostel for the homeless of Dover. She is a lovely character, full of empathy and understanding for the people who, often through no fault of their own, have fallen on hard times and found themselves without a roof over their heads. Her assistant, Peter was once a residence of St Jude's Hostel and also understands how important the place is.
When one spare room comes available, it is Dawn who is the lucky recipient. She's been fearful to stop still anywhere for over 20 years but she loves living at St Jude's and begins to hope that things might change for her.
True to form, spending cuts threaten the future of the hostel and the residents must fight or find themselves sleeping rough again.
This is a fascinating insight into homelessness and some of the causes that result in people losing their homes. It also covers some aspects of mental illness with warmth and understanding.
I wasn't a fan of the narrator, her voice lacked enthusiasm, but the excellent writing of Jessica Ryn was enough to override that and I highly recommend this debut novel.
March 1, 2020
This is such a fabulous story, it's a light-hearted feel-good read which still manages to deliver some strong and important messages. The story is told from two perspectives: Dawn Brightside and Grace, one of the workers at St Jude's homeless hostel. Dawn has been homeless for many years until she gets offered a place at St Jude's. We meet some fantastic characters at St Jude's including Peter who was a previous resident who now works there, and Jack, a resident close to getting back on his feet. However, when St Jude's is threatened with closure through lack of funds, things start to change for the residents and workers.
Having worked in homeless shelters herself, Jessica is the best author to tell this story. Her writing is light yet powerful and I found myself enjoying the book as a pleasant read whilst still thinking about the deeper issues being addressed. It's shocking to think of the situations wherein someone can having a warm, safe home one day and be on the streets in the cold and rain the next. Most importantly, these people are still humans and deserve to be treated as such; you don't know their backgrounds.
Jessica's writing is full of exciting description and she made it so easy to picture the scenes and the action. She has created some incredible characters that are vividly unique and memorable. A really fab debut book, congratulations!
Thanks to HQ stories for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
Having worked in homeless shelters herself, Jessica is the best author to tell this story. Her writing is light yet powerful and I found myself enjoying the book as a pleasant read whilst still thinking about the deeper issues being addressed. It's shocking to think of the situations wherein someone can having a warm, safe home one day and be on the streets in the cold and rain the next. Most importantly, these people are still humans and deserve to be treated as such; you don't know their backgrounds.
Jessica's writing is full of exciting description and she made it so easy to picture the scenes and the action. She has created some incredible characters that are vividly unique and memorable. A really fab debut book, congratulations!
Thanks to HQ stories for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
July 24, 2020
Love the bright personality of Dawn in this novel no matter what she faced she was always willing to be kind to other people. Found it a bit hard going in the first half but glad I didn’t give up reading and made it through to the end, the second half of the book was definitely better. Sad what some people have to go through when family falls apart and you have no one to turn to. I can’t even begin to imagine what it must be like to be homeless but this novel has certainly highlighted the problems in our society with funding and our broken system ☹️
February 10, 2021
All the stars for this book! Such an unexpected surprise.
I had no idea what it was about nor had I seen any reviews but I am so glad I picked it up. It’s so heart warming yet again the same time heart breaking and Dawn is just the most selfless and loving character. She shows so much care for everyone yet her own life has been very troubled. Written about homelessness and addiction it covers very upsetting subjects but is so moving.
I will be thinking about this book for a long time indeed 💛
I had no idea what it was about nor had I seen any reviews but I am so glad I picked it up. It’s so heart warming yet again the same time heart breaking and Dawn is just the most selfless and loving character. She shows so much care for everyone yet her own life has been very troubled. Written about homelessness and addiction it covers very upsetting subjects but is so moving.
I will be thinking about this book for a long time indeed 💛
October 4, 2022
Must admit it took me a while to get into this book. It tackles the issue of homeless and mental health the main protagonist is Dawn who due to a series of sad circumstances finds herself homeless. Difficult to read at times but towards the end I found myself rooting for Dawn and the other homeless who had been given a chance to change their lives at St. Judes hostel. I would highly recommend it
July 21, 2021
Övergångsboendet St Jude’s nyaste hyresgäst, Dawn Brightside, flyttar in samtidigt som boendet hotas av stängning. Gästerna har hemlöshet, beroende eller kriminalitet i bagaget, och kämpar tillsammans för att St Jude’s ska fortsätta finnas för dem själva och andra som behöver det.
Dawn har en positiv livssyn och starkt självförtroende (det är extra roligt när hennes fantasi drar iväg), men mörka hemligheter som sipprar fram.
Här har vi en fin bok som man blir glad av, samtidigt som ämnet är viktigt. Den vill ge en tankeställare om att hemlöshet kan drabba oss alla, att det inte är en särskild sorts människa som blir hemlös.
Dawn har en positiv livssyn och starkt självförtroende (det är extra roligt när hennes fantasi drar iväg), men mörka hemligheter som sipprar fram.
Här har vi en fin bok som man blir glad av, samtidigt som ämnet är viktigt. Den vill ge en tankeställare om att hemlöshet kan drabba oss alla, att det inte är en särskild sorts människa som blir hemlös.
July 17, 2023
this was so cute! i’ve never read a story like this. the awareness this book brings to the issue of homelessness is so important. i loved the relationships formed in this story, and dawn’s character really is just a beacon of hope. it did take a little for this story to really get rolling for me, but when it did i really enjoyed it.
February 23, 2021
Aww this was such a lovely read about a woman who got a place at a homeless shelter and getting her life back on track. I really enjoyed reading about all the characters as well who lived and worked at the homeless shelter.
September 12, 2023
What a beautiful story of deep caring, kindness and generosity amongst people that have so little and need much. I appreciated the light shined on homelessness, mental health and the power of relationships throughout this book.
December 21, 2024
Extraordinary is right. This book was hopeful, uplifting and lovely.
The publication I read was let slightly down by the editors with missing words and incorrect words throughout, but it didn't detract too much.
Dawn is such a wonderful soul. This novel teaches us no matter how down on our luck we are, no matter how sad, there is hope, and it is extraordinary! I lived all these characters, their flaws and their incredible determination.
The publication I read was let slightly down by the editors with missing words and incorrect words throughout, but it didn't detract too much.
Dawn is such a wonderful soul. This novel teaches us no matter how down on our luck we are, no matter how sad, there is hope, and it is extraordinary! I lived all these characters, their flaws and their incredible determination.
November 6, 2020
**audiobook version **
This was a beautiful story of moving forward regardless of the pain and challenges. It was beautiful and heart-warming.
The narrators voice was so soothing and I would happily listen to more books by her.
Thanks to netgalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review
This was a beautiful story of moving forward regardless of the pain and challenges. It was beautiful and heart-warming.
The narrators voice was so soothing and I would happily listen to more books by her.
Thanks to netgalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review
December 15, 2020
I think that this just isn't my kind of read. There was nothing wrong with it. It just didn't feel wow to me. Interesting storyline and characters but nothing to fall in love with.
January 18, 2022
This is one of the most heart-warming , uplifting and a feel good novel that makes you believe in humanity especially during the time we are going through right now .
April 1, 2023
This is such a good book and had me in tears. Its about mental health and homelessness, but also how life can change quickly for the good and bad. Its also about friendship, love and hope.
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