Title: Send Down the Rain
Author: Charles Martin
First published May 8, 2018
352 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9780718084769 (ISBN10: 0718084764)
Rating: 4.22
Overview
In Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin, Allie’s life has been filled with loss. Her beloved waterfront restaurant, started by her parents, is gone and now her second husband has died tragically.
Joseph, a Vietnam veteran, is haunted by his past and has isolated himself in a cabin. When he helps a mother and her children, he finds himself drawn back to Florida where he discovers that Allie needs him.
Despite years of separation and secrets that threaten to tear them apart, Joseph and Allie find that the power of love can heal even the deepest wounds. This heartwarming novel reminds us that truth and love can conquer all.
About the Author
I am happily married to my wife, Christy, and we have been blessed with three wonderful boys.
Editoral Review
Charles Martin’s novel, Send Down the Rain, is a breathtaking story that will leave readers in awe of its beauty and depth. Published on May 8, 2018, the book is a work of historical fiction that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption.
The story follows Joseph “Jo-Jo” Landon, a Vietnam War veteran who has been estranged from his family for over two decades. After receiving news of his brother’s sudden death, Jo-Jo embarks on a journey back home to Georgia, where he is forced to confront his troubled past and the demons that have haunted him for years.
Martin’s writing style is nothing short of captivating, as he skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both emotionally powerful and deeply moving. The book is filled with vivid descriptions of the natural world and the characters that inhabit it, creating a sense of intimacy and connection that is hard to shake off.
The characters in Send Down the Rain are complex and nuanced, with their own unique struggles and challenges. Jo-Jo, in particular, is a deeply compelling protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
The secondary characters are equally well-drawn, adding depth and dimension to the story.
One of the strengths of the book is its exploration of the historical and cultural context in which it is set. Martin delves into the Vietnam War and its aftermath, exploring the trauma and pain that many veterans experienced upon returning home.
He also touches on issues of race and identity, highlighting the struggles of African Americans in the rural South during the 20th century.
In terms of weaknesses, some readers may find the pacing of the book to be slow at times, particularly in the early chapters. Additionally, some of the plot twists may be predictable for readers familiar with the genre.
Overall, Send Down the Rain is a beautifully crafted novel that is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and literary fiction alike. With its richly drawn characters, evocative setting, and powerful themes, it is a book that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading.
For these reasons, the Washington Post gives Send Down the Rain a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, with the caveat that readers who prefer fast-paced action and plot-driven stories may not find it to their liking. Nonetheless, for those who appreciate a well-written, character-driven novel that explores complex themes with grace and sensitivity, this book is a must-read.
