I was recently approached by a library patron who had enjoyed a certain book and thought it would make a good review. I was able to obtain a copy quickly and was favorably impressed with the subject content, strong characterizations, and well- told story of a young women making her way in life while facing difficult challenges. However, after some research, I discovered that it was not currently listed as a best-seller, although the author, Sandra Brown, had placed books on the New York Times list in the past. After consulting with the literary mavens of my monthly Bridge Club, I was told I needn't always be so rigid, and if a novel of note came my way I should share it with my readers. So here goes. I promise not to veer off course again, unless convinced otherwise.
Sandra Brown is certainly one of the more prolific authors of this century, with a definite fan following. Her usual subject matter leans toward romance or romantic mysteries. However she moves in a different sphere with "Rainwater", as she mentions in the preface. It soon becomes apparent this book was written from the heart, and it will touch the reader's heartstrings as well.
Ella Barron is the owner and caretaker of a boarding house in central Texas. The day-to-day effort to keep things running smoothly is back-breaking work, and Ella is perpetuately exhausted. Adding to her stress is the care of her autistic young son.
When the local doctor brings a prospective tenant, Mr Rainwater, to the house, she is glad for the extra income. However, upon learning the man is terminally ill, she is uncertain how to treat him, and unsure whether she needs the responsibility. She eventually learns to appreciate his quiet wisdom and his gentle treatment of her son, Solly.
Ella's courage is challenged by taking on the cause of local dairy farmers who are being terrorized by government officials. She also must deal with an unwanted suitor who turns dangerous.
This poignant tale of Ella learning to trust her heart and occasionally lean on others will warm your soul. Her choice in the end is unexpected, yet satisfying.
This book will rate among the best written by Sandra Brown. If you are looking for something a bit different by a well-known author, "Rainwater" will fit the bill. No offensive language or unneccasary violence will mar your enjoyment of this novel. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7
Friday, February 19, 2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
Nicholas Sparks has been capturing reader's hearts for years with his heart-felt stories of love and life. Many, such as The Notebook, and more recently, Dear John , have come to life in well-made movies. Still on the New York Times Best Seller List after 21 weeks, The Last Song has captivated millions.
Ronnie Miller (short for Veronica) is an angry, confused almost-eighteen-year-old. She feels abandoned by her once-loving father who, after divorcing her mother, disappears from her life. Ronnie has refused any contact with him for three years. Now her mother is insisting that she and her brother, Jonah, spend an entire summer with their father in Wrightsville Beach near Wilmington, NC.
Ronnie is a talented, intelligent and beautiful teen, but her strong feelings of resentment result in a heart hardened toward life. Even though mentored by her father to become a brilliant musician with a future as a concert pianist, she rejects her music after her father exits her life.
The difference in life-style between her New York club scene and the more slow paced world of her father's beach house causes more resentment for Ronnie. Jonah seems to adapt immediately, assisting his father in creating a stained-glass window for the local church. Ronnie angrily seeks something to occupy her time for the months she is forced to stay.
Ronnie's father, Steve, patiently allows her to work through her anger, and eventually a truce seems to be in place. Slowly a relationship begins to develop as the father and daughter get to know each other again.
Unexpectantly, a romance developes with a local young man. Ronnie begins to experience contentment as she enjoys time spent with Will and learning about the animal life of the sea. She determinadly takes on a cause of protecting a nest of sea turtle eggs, and eventually lands a job at an aquarium.
Her interaction with other young people in the area is not so pleasant. Ronnie must deal with deception, and untimately, danger. She faces these challenges with strength and character.
As the end of summer approaches, Ronnie realizes how much she has changed, and how she will miss the beach life. Then, when a tragic truth becomes known, her strength and spirit are tested. With her serentity falling to pieces around her, Ronnie learns to face impossible calamity and grief with new-found endurance.
The Last Song is one of those books to save for a vacation or snowy weekend, as it is hard to put down. This narrative of a special girl growing up to become a fine young lady will pull at your heart strings. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7.
Ronnie Miller (short for Veronica) is an angry, confused almost-eighteen-year-old. She feels abandoned by her once-loving father who, after divorcing her mother, disappears from her life. Ronnie has refused any contact with him for three years. Now her mother is insisting that she and her brother, Jonah, spend an entire summer with their father in Wrightsville Beach near Wilmington, NC.
Ronnie is a talented, intelligent and beautiful teen, but her strong feelings of resentment result in a heart hardened toward life. Even though mentored by her father to become a brilliant musician with a future as a concert pianist, she rejects her music after her father exits her life.
The difference in life-style between her New York club scene and the more slow paced world of her father's beach house causes more resentment for Ronnie. Jonah seems to adapt immediately, assisting his father in creating a stained-glass window for the local church. Ronnie angrily seeks something to occupy her time for the months she is forced to stay.
Ronnie's father, Steve, patiently allows her to work through her anger, and eventually a truce seems to be in place. Slowly a relationship begins to develop as the father and daughter get to know each other again.
Unexpectantly, a romance developes with a local young man. Ronnie begins to experience contentment as she enjoys time spent with Will and learning about the animal life of the sea. She determinadly takes on a cause of protecting a nest of sea turtle eggs, and eventually lands a job at an aquarium.
Her interaction with other young people in the area is not so pleasant. Ronnie must deal with deception, and untimately, danger. She faces these challenges with strength and character.
As the end of summer approaches, Ronnie realizes how much she has changed, and how she will miss the beach life. Then, when a tragic truth becomes known, her strength and spirit are tested. With her serentity falling to pieces around her, Ronnie learns to face impossible calamity and grief with new-found endurance.
The Last Song is one of those books to save for a vacation or snowy weekend, as it is hard to put down. This narrative of a special girl growing up to become a fine young lady will pull at your heart strings. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate it a 7.
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