Just Before
the Dawn
the acclaimed novel by Joseph A. Gillan
Available from Likaje Books
About the Novel
Joseph Gillan's Just before the Dawn (Rebecca Remembered) is, in many ways, designed to be an elegy for lost chances. In rich detail, Gillan describes a love affair between Rebecca and Thomas, which has been over for some time but which is brought back to Rebecca's attention by a lengthy letter from Thomas. This spells the beginning of the end of Rebecca's once-happy marriage to William. While chronicling this decline, Gillan also uses the titular refrain to show readers the relationship once shared between Rebecca and Thomas. He occupies both characters' perspectives, providing readers with a more well-rounded view of the story.
While Rebecca is dealing with the end of her marriage, Thomas is dating a variety of women, none of whom satisfies him in the way that she did. And yet Thomas finds himself pining after another woman, Olivia. Using all of these relationships, Gillan masterfully establishes and reiterates the tensions of unrequited love in a way that draws readers in while simultaneously wrenching their hearts.
Filled with reflections on the nature of faith, religion, and life itself, Just Before the Dawn (Rebecca Remembered) is an intricately detailed, intelligently written text. Gillan is able to be intellectual, yet never pedantic, and his frequent citations of other writers may endear him to his readers. This is a novel that mulls over many basic questions of human existence; for this reason, it could have a wide appeal.
Robert Lory, author of The Thirteen Bracelets and 35 other novels - “...a very Zen piece of writing...and an enjoyable read...”
Stephen Haven, Director, Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program, Ashland University - "This book resonates with the perspective of someone who has loved fully and deeply... The description of their lovemaking reminded me of Lawrence, in many ways. There is humor, fun, utter physical joy, light-hearted banter, graphic sexual detail, love ... a touch of spirituality ... without ever once slipping into voyeurism or sensationalism. REALLY WELL DONE.
"There seems to be a touch of Henry Miller in the book, and a touch of Saul Bellow." -- Stephen Haven, author, The River Lock.
B. Kaufman, Executive Director, CACLD - “...strong...fascinating...moving...”
The Mensa Bulletin - "Wonderfully crafted... " "...Provides reflections on the nature of faith, religion, love and lovers (lost and otherwise), sexuality and life, dying and death. You've GOT to read this book ... to better understand the opposite sex or even if you just want to better grasp the eternal mysteries of life."
Woman Fan (WF, New York, NY) - "This is a great read. It's an interesting, complex, wonderful love story. Thomas and Olivia are unforgettable, wonderful characters."
Woman Fan (WF, New York, NY) - "This is a great read. It's an interesting, complex, wonderful love story. Thomas and Olivia are unforgettable, wonderful characters."
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ISBN: 978-09820171-4-2, 340 pages
Joseph A. Gillan and Likaje Books. All Rights Reserved. © 2009
