Rainwater

If only all of Sandra Brown's books were this good - this is the work of a gifted, mature author. Ms. Brown has written a wonderful, thought-provoking book. Hope to see more of this quality.

Sandra is one of my favorites. I enjoy the romance novels, but her deeper newer work is even better. I don't actually read them , but listen to books on tape (CD). Get an unabridged copy of "Envy".

Good book. My friend loved it and suggested I read it. I wasn't as big of fan as she was but it was a good book.

best ever

I first read this book almost 4 years ago and the story of a mother, her son and their boarder in Texas during the Depression never left me. When I saw the audio the other day at the library I thought why not see how this translated to the listening experience rather than the reading one. And I am happy to say that the book and the reader are served as well as my first experience. This is a little gem which Victor Slezak narrates with an elegant slow drawl which has the listener begging for more. I am sure that plenty of other reviewers will give one looking for a synopsis, I will close by saying not to miss this audiotape or book for a wonderful gem.

One of the most moving books I have ever read. There's poetry in the words and the themes in this book. The love story moves slowly and opens like a flower, pedal by pedal. I've always loved Sandra Brown, but this is nothing like any of her other books. It's her masterpiece. Please read it, or listen to the audio (I've done both), it's a book that's the best kind: one that stays with you long after you've closed the covers.

I was quite surprised with the direction this story went and it was very good. The characters were so believable an although I was born after that era, it gave me a much broader view of how little money and faith people had. Death is always a hard pill to swallow but when the person who dies is so full of love in lieu of hate and greed, it is a whole other level. Sandra Brown did an excellent job with this novel, so many emotions and so many different personalities made it an outstanding work. I highly recommend this one to everyone, it hits home.

This is a somewhat different and better story than most of the author's books. I could relate to the characters and I liked them. I would say that even if you are not a fan of this author to give the book (or CD as I had) to give it a try.

As much of the nation (and the world) faces economic hardships and drought, the audio release of author Sandra Brown's RAINWATER is a reminder of earlier hard times.

The story is set in 1934 when drought and economic depression gripped the country. Ella Barron runs a boardinghouse in Gilead, Texas, and cares for her 10-year-old son, Solly, who has behavior problems.

Ella runs a strict house with focus and balance. She fears unrest when she takes in a new boarder, David Rainwater. A relative of the local doctor, David is dying.

Meanwhile, there is growing racial tension and social unrest in the town. Problems arise due to a government program designed to help farmers and local residents down on their luck. A group of hoodlums misuse the program to their own advantage.

During this time David shows interest in Solly and it leads them to discover he is autistic. The feelings between Ella and David are also changing. She finally allows herself to give in to his calming presence.

In the end a sacrifice is made that changes everyone's life and leads to new beginnings. RAINWATER is a tender love story filled with great emotions. It captures a turbulent time and is filled with suspense with a bit of mystery.

Victor Sleak does a terrific job narrating the story. His voice conveys the calming effect of David, while his mannerisms gives depth to Ella's emotions. He brings the supporting characters to life, each in their own unique way.

Author Sandra Brown's website is

Rainwater by Sandra Brown, Read by Victor Slezak, Simon & Schuster Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1442345027, Unabridged, 6 Discs, Listening Time: 7 Hours (Book Format @2010)

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.