When David Rainwater arrives at the house looking for lodging, he comes recommended by a trusted friend as "a man of impeccable character". But Ella senses that admitting Mr. Rainwater will bring about unsettling changes.
However, times are hard, and in order to make ends meet, Ella's house must remain 100 percent occupied. So Mr. Rainwater moves into her house...and impacts her life in ways Ella could never have foreseen.
The changes are echoed by the turbulence beyond the house walls. Friends and neighbors who've thus far maintained a tenuous grip on their meager livelihoods now face foreclosure and financial ruin. In an effort to save their families from homelessness and hunger, farmers and cattlemen are forced to make choices that come with heartrending consequences.
The climate of desperation creates a fertile atmosphere for racial tensions and social unrest. Conrad Ellis -- privileged and spoiled and Ella's nemesis since childhood -- steps into this arena of teeming hostility to exact his vengeance and demonstrate the extent of his blind hatred and unlimited cruelty. He and his gang of hoodlums come to embody the rule of law, and no one in Gilead, Texas, is safe. Particularly Ella and Solly.
In this hotbed of uncertainty, Ella finds Mr. Rainwater a calming presence. She is moved by the kindness he shows other boarders, Solly...and Ella herself. Slowly, she begins to rely on his soft-spokenness, his restraint, and the steely resolve of his convictions.
©2009 Simon & Schuster; (P)2009 Sandra Brown Management, Ltd.
"A MUST read (or listen!)"
Oh my! If there were 6 stars to be given, I would gladly give them!! This book was amazing! I am still in awe of how absolutly captivating it is. I usally read books, but I listened to this on audio (my first audio book). I caught myself crying at intersections when listening to it in the car. The characters are wonderfully developed. It's hard not to feel conected to each of them. The ending was a perfect closing to the story and lives that were portrayed. This was my first Sandra Brown book and I am impressed with her writing talents. There is so much description in this book, you can almost taste and feel the things that are happening. For those concerned with content, there is some language in the story (the bad guys cuss :). But the story line is wonderfully written. Often stories have some holes in the plot, this one does not. I HIGHLY recommend this book. This is the best book I have read in years!!! I cried..many times...like the kind of cry you do when watching Steel Magnolias!!! The narrator is wonderful! He has a great voice that matches wonderfully to the story.
"Sad but compelling reading"
This is my second Sandra Brown book. I loved "Envy" and this book is a close second. Great characters with many twists and surprises in the plot. Victor Slezak is incredible. In fact, based on his narration of "Envy" I chose my second book because he narrated.
This is a must-read.
"Rainwater"
Very sweet story. Predictable at times, could possibly make a great movie. A bit heartbreaking at times, but, that's to be expected based on the short description. Just the right length.
"Good Book, Good Movie"
Enjoyed the story and the narration by Victor Slezak. I was mentally seeing a movie as the story progressed. Knowing there could be a sad ending didn't deter me from wanting to experience the story. I'm glad I did.
"GREAT LOVE STORY"
I have any of Sandra Brown's books i can get I can get my hands on. But this one is my all time favorite. It has it all, but it has one of the better love stories I have ever read.
THanks Sandra
Laura Moats
"WOW!!!"
Sandra Brown really outdid herself with this one. This book encompasses the life of segregation, prejudice, greed, determination, death, and selflessness. Rainwater also delves into the world of autism before anyone really knew what autism was. I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to educators who work with special education students. It is a very thought provoking read!!!!
"Incredible story!!"
Unexpected turns throughout
Great Sandra Brown novel with the usual twist at the end. Very touching story and a joy to listen to!
"Amazing Story...not what initially Expected."
This was an intriguing story. Victor Slezak is marvelous as the narrator. He made this story an easy and enjoyable listen. It was his performance that made me want to continue the story. His characterizations of the heroine and hero of the story were right on. If this were to be made into a movie, I hope that Mr. Slezak would serve as narrator ala John Boy on the Waltons.
While interesting and complex-simple, neither of the main characters were what I expected them to be. There were many layers of personal experiences, past challenges and beliefs that eventually drew them together. They had a lot in common. The supporting cast was sterotypical...the old maid school teachers, the busy body black maid who is deeply devoted to her church and its pastor, the southern "good old boys who are violent racists", poor people who are victimized by elite members of their community and ineffective law enforcement. While it would be easy to guess what path the storyline would take, I did not find that this story was predictable. The beginning of the story was perfect. It is easy for the listener to be a customer in the store. I was wondering of what value was the furniture, dishes of the narrator's mother. I did not anticipate how the story would end and the ending comes quickly so be prepared.
This is a good "read/listen" when one is doing routine chores. You will not want to put it down. Easily finished in one long day of house-cleaning or yard work. Enjoy!
"Good, fast, listen"
When I buy an audiobook, I don't want it to be "work". I desire something to pass the time during my commute or while I do my housework. This totally fit the bill. It is fast moving and kept my interest. If you want fine literature to expand your mind, this isn't it. If you want a good story told by an excellent narrator, it is worth the credit/money.