The Sound of Rain by Sarah Loudin Thomas is set in the 1950s, which I enjoyed, since that isn't a time frame often chosen by historical fiction writers. I was interested in the Appalachian aspect, and I did appreciate that the author portrayed the mountain people with a sense of respect and dignity, but the mountains are only a small portion of the story. Most of it is set in South Carolina. The story moves rather slowly, and introduces many minor stories within the main story. I actually enjoyed some of the minor stories better. I did like the main character, Judd, and I thought that his character seemed realistic. I felt that Larkin was less developed as a character, though, and her family's issues should have felt more interesting than they did. Overall, I liked this book but didn't feel compelled to finish it in any hurry. The author is good at painting the scenery and other descriptive writing, but the plot could have used a bit more attention.I received this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for the purpose of writing a review, but all opinions are my own.
This book says "A Nikki Boyd" novel on the cover, but although it is about the case that drove her into law enforcement, Nikki herself is more of a "cameo" than a character in this tale. I was disappointed that she didn't have a bigger role, especially in the end. That said, I did enjoy main characters Jordan and Garrett. I just didn't feel that they were as well-defined as the characters in the previous novels. The case itself was very good, and there was suspense throughout, but I felt that the main characters needed a bit more. All in all, it is a good book, and I would definitely try another of Lisa Harris's novels, but the first three Nikki Boyd novels kept me enthralled from start to finish. This one fizzles at times, and the romance element is frustrating. I still give it four stars, though, because it is well-written, and the serial killer case is well-done.
