The Sound of Rain, (Paperback)

We have a couple disasters here, a mine cave in and then a hurricane, and our Judd gets to live through both, but as we see he is not left unscathed. Then the author brings us the Heyward family, a man devastated by his upbringing of being poor, having had a father that gave all they had to the church, but we sure see he did something right with his children. The story lets us spend time at both the ocean and then we go to both West Virginia and Kentucky, and we see how outsiders are not easily accepted into the mountain community, people are wary, even the pastor has to work to earn their trust. A book that has grief and romance, along with the strength of family, and we see how one works to control others to get what he wants, or does he? A page turner for sure and one that will have you reading late into the night. I received this book through Bethany House Publishers Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

Sarah Loudin Thomas presents a delightfully heartwarming story with her new release, The Sound of Rain. Set in the early 1950s, and ranging from the mountains of Appalachians to the beaches of South Carolina, this historical romance is an authentic representation of time and place. Readers are drawn immediately into the drama of the book with a coal mining accident and the drama continues as life-changes occur, a romance unfolds, and a hurricane rolls through. This talented author is not afraid to tackle the gritty subjects of near-death experiences, grief, cancer, and fragmented family relationships. The characters are developed well depicted with realistic emotions, full of vim and vigor, and easy to like or not. They are delightful and despicable, gracious and gossipy and easy to relate to. I especially liked Granny Jane, her mountain mannerisms, and her toothy grin. With descriptive scenes and entertaining dialogue, this story of friendships, family, and faith unfolds into a tale that this reader didn't want to end. I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.