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Kelli & Merin #2
Rain
Starting over isn’t easy.
Staying at Kelli’s parents’ inn, Merin is beginning to feel safe again, contemplating a future far away from the only home she’s ever known. She and Kelli face professional changes, and a puzzling A woman who washed ashore on a small boat, suffering from amnesia.
Discovering her identity, and her story, leads Kelli to a familiar enemy, and this time, neither of them is going to back down…
Staying at Kelli’s parents’ inn, Merin is beginning to feel safe again, contemplating a future far away from the only home she’s ever known. She and Kelli face professional changes, and a puzzling A woman who washed ashore on a small boat, suffering from amnesia.
Discovering her identity, and her story, leads Kelli to a familiar enemy, and this time, neither of them is going to back down…
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2023
52 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Winkes
99 books212 followersBarbara Winkes writes suspense and romance with lesbian characters at the center. She has always loved stories in which women persevere and lift each other up. Expect high drama and happy endings.
Discover a variety of genres, serial and standalone. Women loving women always take the lead.
Discover a variety of genres, serial and standalone. Women loving women always take the lead.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 29, 2023
Rain is a solid followup to the first book in the duology. Continuing where Thunder left off, Merin has left behind everything and is now living with Kelli’s parents in their small town by the ocean. She is searching for a new beginning, exploring possibilities with Kelli, and even taking on a new job. I enjoyed watching the gentle romance unfold between Kelli and Merin. The chemistry continues to heat up and moves into a very sexy fade to black intimacy.
The mystery in this book is in the forefront with a more aggressive villain and Kelli is the fierce detective on the trail. The story has some good setups and also tricky false alarms which keep it interesting. My only wish is that the ending was a bit more expanded. After two books of build up, I wasn’t going anywhere so I could have used a few more pages. Still, 4.5 for me. Overall, I was very happy with the duology and recommend both Thunder and Rain for the romance and the mysteries.
The mystery in this book is in the forefront with a more aggressive villain and Kelli is the fierce detective on the trail. The story has some good setups and also tricky false alarms which keep it interesting. My only wish is that the ending was a bit more expanded. After two books of build up, I wasn’t going anywhere so I could have used a few more pages. Still, 4.5 for me. Overall, I was very happy with the duology and recommend both Thunder and Rain for the romance and the mysteries.
April 6, 2023
After the way the last book Thunder ended, I definitely wanted to know what happens next. You just felt that one of the last scenes will play a huge role in the next part. And yeah sometimes I like to be right. Lol
While Kelli and Merin planned to figure out their new life, one thing especially Kelli planned was living a more quiet life. But like it’s often in life things rarely turn out the way we expect them to. The woman who was found at the beach of Kelli’s parents inn turns out to be a real mystery. But there is someone from Kelli’s past who definitely remembers her and who is just used to get the things they want. Once again we are taken on a real rollercoaster ride. One that made me turn the pages quickly and kept me at the edge of my seat. And yeah when I thought things will turn out in a specific way, once again they didn‘t and I got surprised. That’s actually one thing that often happens to me in these kind of books by Barbara Winkes. She surprises me and I love that so much. Another thing I just love in these kind of stories is the dynamic between the two MC‘s. Merin and Kelli just make the perfect team.
If you haven’t read the first book Thunder, I recommend to start with this one to have all the background. And then I hope you love these books as much as I do. 😊
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
While Kelli and Merin planned to figure out their new life, one thing especially Kelli planned was living a more quiet life. But like it’s often in life things rarely turn out the way we expect them to. The woman who was found at the beach of Kelli’s parents inn turns out to be a real mystery. But there is someone from Kelli’s past who definitely remembers her and who is just used to get the things they want. Once again we are taken on a real rollercoaster ride. One that made me turn the pages quickly and kept me at the edge of my seat. And yeah when I thought things will turn out in a specific way, once again they didn‘t and I got surprised. That’s actually one thing that often happens to me in these kind of books by Barbara Winkes. She surprises me and I love that so much. Another thing I just love in these kind of stories is the dynamic between the two MC‘s. Merin and Kelli just make the perfect team.
If you haven’t read the first book Thunder, I recommend to start with this one to have all the background. And then I hope you love these books as much as I do. 😊
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2023
Nicely done romantic suspense.
September 20, 2023
Demons return!
Kelli and Merin are staying at Kelli’s parents’ inn as they navigate the way forward for their relationship. When a woman with amnesia is washed ashore, the last thing Kelli expected was for it lead to an enemy from her past.
I love the simplicity of the thrillers Barbara creates. There is always a continuity when they are part of a series that just seamlessly leads one story to another. As Rain is part of a series, you really should read Thunder first, so you can fully understand how Merin and Kelli have found themselves in their current situation and who Kelli’s enemy is, but if you haven’t there is enough within the story for you to get the gist. I was surprised when Kelli took chances again, especially after her past experience but that is just in her nature.
Not only was this story packed with sudden and suspenseful moments that lead to Kelli becoming closer and closer again to the case, but it had some more serene moments where she and Merin had the opportunity to work through personal things. For them both that was their relationship and where to settle, and for Merin there were some loose ties with family. After all, she was the one enduring the most change and having to overcome her fears. I thought she was particularly brave, especially when she realised who was back and what they were doing so close to home for Kelli.
Really great addition to the series and excited for what is next for Merin and Kelli.
Kelli and Merin are staying at Kelli’s parents’ inn as they navigate the way forward for their relationship. When a woman with amnesia is washed ashore, the last thing Kelli expected was for it lead to an enemy from her past.
I love the simplicity of the thrillers Barbara creates. There is always a continuity when they are part of a series that just seamlessly leads one story to another. As Rain is part of a series, you really should read Thunder first, so you can fully understand how Merin and Kelli have found themselves in their current situation and who Kelli’s enemy is, but if you haven’t there is enough within the story for you to get the gist. I was surprised when Kelli took chances again, especially after her past experience but that is just in her nature.
Not only was this story packed with sudden and suspenseful moments that lead to Kelli becoming closer and closer again to the case, but it had some more serene moments where she and Merin had the opportunity to work through personal things. For them both that was their relationship and where to settle, and for Merin there were some loose ties with family. After all, she was the one enduring the most change and having to overcome her fears. I thought she was particularly brave, especially when she realised who was back and what they were doing so close to home for Kelli.
Really great addition to the series and excited for what is next for Merin and Kelli.
April 20, 2023
Suspense is an understatement …
Merin and Kelli continue their journey to living in the beautiful coastal town. Moving forward in their relationship, with the assistance of Kelli’s parents, they connected on a much deeper level. When a young woman washes up on shore in a small boat, their world takes a dastardly turn. When the wealthy Emmett shows up that tormented this amnesiac, Kelli remembers the case from years ago. When he shows up, I had quite a visceral reaction to him. I appreciate that this was a happily ever after novel. So I felt much better, but I wanted more of Merin and Kelli’s relationship. What did they do to fix up the house? Children. Book 3???? A very good read. I heartily and enthusiastically recommend this and any other works by Barbara Winkes. Thank you Peace
Merin and Kelli continue their journey to living in the beautiful coastal town. Moving forward in their relationship, with the assistance of Kelli’s parents, they connected on a much deeper level. When a young woman washes up on shore in a small boat, their world takes a dastardly turn. When the wealthy Emmett shows up that tormented this amnesiac, Kelli remembers the case from years ago. When he shows up, I had quite a visceral reaction to him. I appreciate that this was a happily ever after novel. So I felt much better, but I wanted more of Merin and Kelli’s relationship. What did they do to fix up the house? Children. Book 3???? A very good read. I heartily and enthusiastically recommend this and any other works by Barbara Winkes. Thank you Peace
August 23, 2023
In the conclusion to Thunder, Book 1 of Winkes’ Duology suspense novels, the author continues the story in first person. Just as with the first book, Rain didn’t disappoint in the suspense. I think Winkes does that masterfully.
It felt that she developed her characters more fully with Rain. And again, Winkes surprised me many times in the story. I never give spoilers, so you need to read it yourself to get them. I’m guessing you’ll be as surprised as I was. I found myself triggered by some potentially violent scenes, so just be aware. Just sayin’.
Pick both books up for the weekend and spend some quality time with these characters.
It felt that she developed her characters more fully with Rain. And again, Winkes surprised me many times in the story. I never give spoilers, so you need to read it yourself to get them. I’m guessing you’ll be as surprised as I was. I found myself triggered by some potentially violent scenes, so just be aware. Just sayin’.
Pick both books up for the weekend and spend some quality time with these characters.
April 30, 2023
A good rainy day read
This second book in the series is a little slow at first, but I’m glad I kept reading. Barbara does a good job of building the suspense and finishes off this thriller with a good ending. All of Barbara’s books lead us on a journey, this one is no different. Her characters are always well written and the storyline may take a few pages to capture you, but boy is it worth the read.
This second book in the series is a little slow at first, but I’m glad I kept reading. Barbara does a good job of building the suspense and finishes off this thriller with a good ending. All of Barbara’s books lead us on a journey, this one is no different. Her characters are always well written and the storyline may take a few pages to capture you, but boy is it worth the read.
May 1, 2023
A Lighthouse
Kelli and Merin are living at the B&B owned by Krlli’s parents. Kelli has a job with the local police department and Merin is a tour guide for the city and the lighthouse. When a woman washes up on the beach, Emmett is back because it’s Annabelle who disappeared five years ago. Life in a small town shouldn’t be so full of violence. Great second book in the series.
Kelli and Merin are living at the B&B owned by Krlli’s parents. Kelli has a job with the local police department and Merin is a tour guide for the city and the lighthouse. When a woman washes up on the beach, Emmett is back because it’s Annabelle who disappeared five years ago. Life in a small town shouldn’t be so full of violence. Great second book in the series.
July 3, 2023
This is a continuation of a sweet love story with intrigue added in. I couldn't wait to see what happened next. The ending wrapped things up nicely but also left it open just enough for her to be a sequel if the author wanted to continue their story.
October 9, 2023
A different small town
Kelli and Merin ate now in Kelli's hometown staying in Kelli's parent's B&B. But still trying to figure out what their relationship is. When a woman washes up on the shore barely alive it gets Kelli's attention because something about her is familiar. What does this mean and where will it lead Kelli to.
Kelli and Merin ate now in Kelli's hometown staying in Kelli's parent's B&B. But still trying to figure out what their relationship is. When a woman washes up on the shore barely alive it gets Kelli's attention because something about her is familiar. What does this mean and where will it lead Kelli to.
November 22, 2023
Kelli can't stop thinking about her last case and what she left behind. As she navigates life, a new case arises. Can she snag the suspect before he ruins everything she has worked for? Or will it all end in one final blow?
April 12, 2023
Great book
I enjoyed this 1 just as much as the 1st 1 I love the characters the storyline and the mystery I hope there's another book And I recommend this series
I enjoyed this 1 just as much as the 1st 1 I love the characters the storyline and the mystery I hope there's another book And I recommend this series
Read
August 5, 2023Shortish, part 2 of a duology. I had to find out what happened.
October 14, 2023
loved it
I really enjoyed the book. It was a wonderful story, suspenseful and romantic. A great follow up to the previous story
I really enjoyed the book. It was a wonderful story, suspenseful and romantic. A great follow up to the previous story
December 26, 2023
tiny bit maudlin
Excellent premise. Love the lighthouse storyline. The mix of straight & gay people is great. The ending is very satisfying.
Excellent premise. Love the lighthouse storyline. The mix of straight & gay people is great. The ending is very satisfying.
June 25, 2025
4 stars. A fantastic follow up to 'Thunder'. I liked the mystery in this one and all of the twist and turns but it was really the romance that did it for me. It's so good. Kelli and Merin are so good together. I also loved the character development that Merin went through. She's much stronger than she gives herself credit for. She and Kelli really brought out the best in each other. This series is so good and I couldn't get enough of it.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews