A story you are going to love: My review of "Thunder and Rain" by Charles Martin

Publisher: Center Street (April 3, 2012)

About the Book....

Third generation Texas Ranger Tyler Steele is the last of a dying breed-- a modern day cowboy hero living in a world that doesn't quite understand his powerful sense of right and wrong and instinct to defend those who can't defend themselves. Despite his strong moral compass, Ty has trouble seeing his greatest weakness. His hard outer shell, the one essential to his work, made him incapable of forging the emotional connection his wife Andie so desperately needed.

Now retired, rasing their son Brodie on his own, and at risk of losing his ranch, Ty does not know how to rebuild from the rubble of his life. The answer comes in the form of Samantha and her daughter Hope, on the run from a seemingly inescapable situation. They are in danger, desperate, and alone. Though they are strangers, Ty knows he can help-- protecting the innocent is what he does best. As his relationship with Sam and Hope unfolds, Ty realizes he must confront his true weaknesses if he wants to become the man he needs to be.

MY REVIEW

Readers who have loved previous books by Charles Martin are going to absolutely love his latest book, "Thunder and Rain". And, readers who haven't enjoyed his previous books are also going to love this book - guaranteed!

Martin has penned a story that will grab you from the first page, engage your mind and your heart, and have you devouring the book as fast as you can read, because it's just that good. The plot is outstanding, with carefully crafted scenes, moving dialogue, and descriptions that paint the setting to perfection. Ty is a character that I wish existed in real life - courageous, strong, learning to admit his weaknesses, a good father, embodying what it means to be a man as God created men to be.  The scenes he shares with Samantha are humerous and touching, and the development of their relationship is simply a pleasure to behold. One of my favourite aspects of this book are the letters written by young Hope, which are incredibly moving and poignant, and her story is one that will long haunt me and yet encapsulates the blessings of God at the same time. The conclusion was powerful and deeply satisfying, providing oustanding closure to the story of Ty and Sam, Brodie and Hope, while leaving me craving more.

I have to admit that I have a found a couple of Martin's previous books to be on the slower side - but that is not the case here. The pacing is swift and the story was action-packed and yet equisitely emotional, blending to create a fanstastic story.

Well done, Charles Martin. I award this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher for the purposes of this unbiased review.

About the author....

Charles Martin is the author of seven novels. When not writing, his hobbies include bow hunting, working out (a blend of old school stuff and martial arts, called Fight Fit), and Tae Kwon Do, in which he currently has a blue belt, though he notes he is "the least flexible person you've ever met." He lives with his wife, Christy, and their three sons in Jacksonville, Florida.

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