Home to Heather Creek, book 1: Before the dawnKathleen Bauer2008

Charlotte Stevenson's world is turned upside down by the death of her daughter Denise. Denise ran away from home as a teenager and Charlotte has never forgiven herself. Now, Denise's three children are coming to live on Heather Creek Farm. Is this Charlotte's chance to make things right?

The three kids arrive on the farm: Sam fiercely protective of his younger siblings; Emily, desperately missing her friends; and young Christopher, a sweet soul who wants to fit in. While Charlotte helps the grandchildren she barely knows adjust to their new life, she also wrestles with her own grief. Well-meaning friends offer heartfelt advice but what if Charlotte makes the same mistakes this time around?

But small joys remind Charlotte that God gives grace freely, even in trying times, when Emily discovers her mother's horse in the midst of a difficult birth, the whole family comes together to save the animal that Denise loved. The miracle of new life, along with God's healing touch, reminds all of them that it's always darkest just before the dawn.

Titre original : Home to Heather Creek, book 1: Before the dawn (2008)