Rainshadow Road

When I read romance novels, there are certain components that make or break the book for me. Of course, at the most basic level, the author has to knows how to write and execute a story. Given that, I have to like the main character and find myself rooting for his/her happiness, laugh aloud at least once in the story, and ultimately be left with a heart warming ending.

Rainshadow Road focuses on Lucy and her family and stayed true to the storyline without all the extra fuss and dramatics that often get thrown in gratuitously. I strongly dislike dramatic irony in fiction, especially in romance novels. Knowing the main character was deceived and will suffer because of it throughout most of the story or that something terrible has to happen in the end for the story to be resolved gives me anxiety and takes the joy out of reading for pleasure.

This is only my second contemporary novel (the first being Christmas Eve at Bar Harbor) by Lisa Kleypas. I really enjoyed her Hathaway series and Wallflower series and decided to try her contemporary fiction. Rainshadow Road does not disappoint. Lisa Kleypas has a way of infusing humor and witty banter in her dialogues. This book is definitely one that I will listen to again.

It's not absolutely necessary to read the first book in order to enjoy Rainshadow Road, but I would highly recommend starting with Christmas Eve at Bar Harbor to appreciate the interactions and development of the characters.

After reading Rainshadow Road I know I'll be waiting for the Friday Harbor books as they are released. I'm looking forward to reading Zoe's story when it comes out in August.

I love Lisa Kleypas --
this was does not disapoint. This is the story of Sam one of the Nolan brothers -

Her books Sugar Daddy, Blue eyed Devil and Smooth talking stranger are one the of the best series I have ever read or listened to---
I am looking forward to hearing/ reading the next installment ---

I listened to this story in one go - once started, cculd not put it down until it was finished.
Got some stares as I laughed on occassions and brushed away tears on others.

The narrator did a good job -It was worth the credit!

I love all Kleypas books..it was actually her books that really got me into audio books...I did like this better then the first book, but I did not really like the first so...

I love Lisa Kleypas --
this was does not disapoint. This is the story of Sam one of the Nolan brothers -

Her books Sugar Daddy, Blue eyed Devil and Smooth talking stranger are one the of the best series I have ever read or listened to---
I am looking forward to hearing/ reading the next installment ---

I had high hopes for this book and was not disappointed. I went along for the ride and it was not bumpy. I laughed at the magic because it was improbable but didn't detract. I found this book to be gripping at times but not in its entirety. Yes, if you want it, get it.
Who am I to criticize a crown jewel in romance.

This is different from other Kleypas novels, but not in a bad way. Because I enjoy her historical romances, I gave this a try. Not sorry, but doubt I will continue with the series

Yes, to Lisa Kleypas, no to Tanya Eby.

Yes. I love her historical fiction AND some of her contemporary fiction as well.

Her voice got on my nerves--it was too breathy and syrupy sweet for me.

Lisa Kleypas wrote it and I enjoyed the first book in this series with Mark and Maggie.

I'm not a fan of "magic" in my contemporary fiction--this book was too hokey for me and Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor, while predictable, was not.

I was waiting for Lisa Kleypas to write another contemporary romance book for a while. She has written several historical books lately and ignored us that like her contemporary books, but she finally came through. I expected more since, but I was not disappointed.

I am not sure I liked or bought the mystical part of this story. It was a fairly good story. It has lots of family drama, love and some sex. I found both Lucy and Sam rather interesting. Kevin was a real dud. I found the book mostly believable. Usually that does not turn me off if it entertains me. I think Ms. Kleypas has done better jobs in the past and this was not one of her stella books. She usually weaves a really good book and keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is definitely chic/lit. If you are looking for a piece that is strong and like her other work then you won't get it here. But you will be entertained and can enjoy the story. It is just not up to her usual standards but better than most.

This book is clearly a straight up romance, she clears up the loose ends in the end and it's a happy ending. I would have liked Kevin to get what he deserved, but you simply can't have everything. Kevin was Lucy's boyfriend that broke her heart then had the never to want her back after she finally moved on and was happy.

I am an avid believer we need the plain and simple sometimes. So if you don't want the suspense and not much drama. A quick love story; this is it.

My favorite part of the book was the descriptions of Rainshadow Road. The fairy tale like island and the vineyard glittered up my imagination.

I loved her rendition of Holly. Adorable.

A love that sparks magic...