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Saving Rain
Are you ready for redemption?
My name is Soldier, but I was never meant to be a hero.
From the moment I was born, I was looked at as a beacon of hope, a guiding light—a savior. That type of pressure can drive a man to desperation, to do things he shouldn't, and in my case, that's exactly what happened.
All I ever wanted to be was a good person, someone my grandparents could be proud of, but for a long time, I couldn't find the strength to be proud of myself.
I paid the price. I did my time.
Yet... somehow, I got lucky.
I was given a second chance to do better and to be the man I always believed I could be. After finding the love I never knew I deserved, I'm starting to wonder if there's still room for me to be a hero after all...
From the author of Warrior Blue comes an emotional, gritty story about redemption, love, and an antihero desperate to achieve his lifelong dream—to be a good man.
Contains a bonus epilogue.
My name is Soldier, but I was never meant to be a hero.
From the moment I was born, I was looked at as a beacon of hope, a guiding light—a savior. That type of pressure can drive a man to desperation, to do things he shouldn't, and in my case, that's exactly what happened.
All I ever wanted to be was a good person, someone my grandparents could be proud of, but for a long time, I couldn't find the strength to be proud of myself.
I paid the price. I did my time.
Yet... somehow, I got lucky.
I was given a second chance to do better and to be the man I always believed I could be. After finding the love I never knew I deserved, I'm starting to wonder if there's still room for me to be a hero after all...
From the author of Warrior Blue comes an emotional, gritty story about redemption, love, and an antihero desperate to achieve his lifelong dream—to be a good man.
Contains a bonus epilogue.
14 pages, Audible Audio
Published March 5, 2024
2842 people are currently reading
17384 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey Kingsley
32 books3,124 followersWhen I was a wee lassie, I was told by my preschool teachers that I was a natural at storytelling. When I was just a little older than that, an old friend's mother said to me, "Kelsey, one day your books are going to be on the shelves at the library."
Well, Diane, I don't know if my books are ever going to be on the shelves of libraries, but I'm sure as hell going to try.
When I'm not writing stories destined to be bestsellers, I enjoy devouring TV shows, listening to every type of music there is and going to concerts, reading pretty much anything (with a soft spot for romance and certain books located in 18th century Scotland), obsessing over makeup, and pretending to workout.
I also have a fondness for cats, my family, tattoos, and a really good French fry.
Well, Diane, I don't know if my books are ever going to be on the shelves of libraries, but I'm sure as hell going to try.
When I'm not writing stories destined to be bestsellers, I enjoy devouring TV shows, listening to every type of music there is and going to concerts, reading pretty much anything (with a soft spot for romance and certain books located in 18th century Scotland), obsessing over makeup, and pretending to workout.
I also have a fondness for cats, my family, tattoos, and a really good French fry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,239 reviews
July 21, 2023
I might not be a chemist but I do know that there was no chemistry in this book.
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2.5-3 ⭐️
I saw a reel for this book and was instantly intrigued especially because I love the single mom trope.
Yet so many things went wrong that this isn’t worthy of more than 3 stars.
I felt like the insta love in this book was so superficial and didn’t give me anything. Yes they had a backstory that was a traumatic event for Rain but WHAT?
They fell in love quicker than Cinderella… and Cinderella is love at first sight.
I also sadly felt like Soldier could have had more of a development throughout the story especially at the end.
Also let’s talk about the end because Soldier was not a bad person but there were people in this book that were bad and I hated how in the end everything was resolved.
I also just have an issue with his name but that’s my own personal problem.
Now the things I loved:
- Noah and Soldier’s relationship
- Harry
- Rain’s support
- the extremely sad beginning of this book out of Soldier’s perspective as a child
- how we saw why Soldier did the things he did
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2.5-3 ⭐️
I saw a reel for this book and was instantly intrigued especially because I love the single mom trope.
Yet so many things went wrong that this isn’t worthy of more than 3 stars.
I felt like the insta love in this book was so superficial and didn’t give me anything. Yes they had a backstory that was a traumatic event for Rain but WHAT?
They fell in love quicker than Cinderella… and Cinderella is love at first sight.
I also sadly felt like Soldier could have had more of a development throughout the story especially at the end.
Also let’s talk about the end because Soldier was not a bad person but there were people in this book that were bad and I hated how in the end everything was resolved.
I also just have an issue with his name but that’s my own personal problem.
Now the things I loved:
- Noah and Soldier’s relationship
- Harry
- Rain’s support
- the extremely sad beginning of this book out of Soldier’s perspective as a child
- how we saw why Soldier did the things he did
August 7, 2023
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
❥ 𝗦𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡 ❥ Is a full length emotional romance book by new to me author Kelsey Kingsley.
After seeing this doing the rounds and oneclicking, was a decision I don’t regret, this had all those teary eyed feels throughout, twists and turns had me inhaling this as though my life depended on it. I couldn’t put it down.
This kickstarts off when Soldier is born into the world by an eighteen year old who faces many addiction problems so it's her parents who come in and take the reigns and raise Soldier. Life was pretty good up to that point, though his mum wasn't much in his life, his grandparents protected him and made things appear as normal as possible. Until their passing when he's thirteen years old and he's living with his mother.
From this point onwards his life is spiraling down a rabbit hole. Even at such a young age he had to become the man of the house because his pill popping mother wasn't capable. He only had one constant in his life and that was his best friend Billy.
At the age of eighteen just before things take a turn for the worst he steps in when many didn't and saved a girl named Rain, that night left him scarred for life, a night that resonated deep within him, so deep that when he's incarcerated at the age of twenty-two she's still on his mind.
One prison guard stood out amongst the rest, but that didn't really show until Soldier is released at the age of thirty and this very guard goes above and beyond to help him get on his feet.
When he meets Rain again after so many years so many feels detonated.
My heart was put through the wringer for everything Soldier had endured, I felt everything this author hoped I would. So many moments my heart just ached
A slow burn, unique, unputdownable, heartbreaking, beautiful in its entirety! Definitely worth reading.
August 28, 2023
4.5 stars
For such a long book, I really flew through Saving Rain. It’s one of those stories that captivated me from the start. A lot of the book doesn’t feel like a romance, more like the story of a man’s youth, fall, and redemption.
Soldier is born to a teenage mother who never could get it together. Raised by his grandparents, his childhood was okay. Until it wasn’t. Growing up in his teenage years was hard and he made mistakes that he paid for dearly. Now he’s in his early thirties and it’s time for his second chance.
I never found Soldier to be a bad guy, just a guy who tried to do what he thought was best when there were no good choices to make. I loved his romance and second chance at life. This story was emotional and I was in tears more than once, but the end left a big smile on my face. This was a beautiful story and I’m so glad I picked it up.
For such a long book, I really flew through Saving Rain. It’s one of those stories that captivated me from the start. A lot of the book doesn’t feel like a romance, more like the story of a man’s youth, fall, and redemption.
Soldier is born to a teenage mother who never could get it together. Raised by his grandparents, his childhood was okay. Until it wasn’t. Growing up in his teenage years was hard and he made mistakes that he paid for dearly. Now he’s in his early thirties and it’s time for his second chance.
I never found Soldier to be a bad guy, just a guy who tried to do what he thought was best when there were no good choices to make. I loved his romance and second chance at life. This story was emotional and I was in tears more than once, but the end left a big smile on my face. This was a beautiful story and I’m so glad I picked it up.
May 12, 2025
4.5⭐ This was heartbreakingly beautiful. The first 30% truly had me a wreck.
This is the first book I have read where the entire thing was in the male POV and I loved it.
This had me all in my feels and I truly couldn’t put it down. Soldier is a saint 😭 and Harry… ugh I can’t get over how much of a life savor he is.
I can’t wait to read more by this author! This one is so emotional but definitely go into this book blind!
“And that was when I realized that it didn’t always matter what tree the apple fell from. Sometimes, it was just rotten.”
“Can she feel it? I wondered. Can she tell how hard it’s beating for her?”
This is the first book I have read where the entire thing was in the male POV and I loved it.
This had me all in my feels and I truly couldn’t put it down. Soldier is a saint 😭 and Harry… ugh I can’t get over how much of a life savor he is.
I can’t wait to read more by this author! This one is so emotional but definitely go into this book blind!
“And that was when I realized that it didn’t always matter what tree the apple fell from. Sometimes, it was just rotten.”
“Can she feel it? I wondered. Can she tell how hard it’s beating for her?”
July 31, 2023
abandoned my entire to do list today to read this in one sitting and wow 5/5 ★!!
darker/angstier small town town romance about an ex-con w a hero complex who just got out of prison and the single mom who lives next door. two people with hearts of gold who just need a win in life and they find each other. but haunts from their pasts are trying to catch up to them. really had me on the edge of my seat there the last 20% whew. UGH it was SO GOOD.
darker/angstier small town town romance about an ex-con w a hero complex who just got out of prison and the single mom who lives next door. two people with hearts of gold who just need a win in life and they find each other. but haunts from their pasts are trying to catch up to them. really had me on the edge of my seat there the last 20% whew. UGH it was SO GOOD.
March 9, 2024
DNF@42%
This was too insta love for me. I enjoyed reading about his background though.
This was too insta love for me. I enjoyed reading about his background though.
July 1, 2023
Rain + Soldier
The book starts the day Soldier was born.
His mom was only 18 years old with a lot of addiction problems. But his grandparents were the best and he had a pretty great childhood. But when he was only 13 they were both dead and he had to move into a tiny crap place with his mom.
He wanted to be the good man his grandpa raised him to be, but life wasn't easy.
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Ugh. I ugly cried so bad through the first few chapters!
That poor adorable little boy!
And then once his grandparents are gone life just sucks.
He has to do illegal stuff because his mom is just not able to pay the rent or do anything really.
And then really bad things happen and ten years later Soldier just tries to be the man his grandpa wanted him to be.
And it's looking good. He finds his place and his people.
But is this his final happy end or is the bad stuff still not done with him?
I loved this book.
It was so sweet and sad and heartbreaking and you just want to jump into the pages and save that poor boy. Ugh. He just wants to be a good man and life constantly throws the worst things in his way.
This was a beautiful life and love story.
Soldier is the most perfect anti hero book boyfriend!
Noah and Rain and Harry are the perfect co-stars.
I so need to see this as a movie one day!
Also, idiot me didn't even know who the heroine was going to be - but to be fair, we don't meet her until 12% of the book and then just for a second! LOL!
And also for those of you worried that this is a military/war kind of book. Nope. Soldier is just his name!
I would've wanted a tiny little bit more at the end. Before the epilogue. No idea what - but just a little more.
But I still loved reading this so much!
SAVING RAIN was such a great book.
Sweet + heartbreaking + dangerous + adorable + beautiful and all the things! READ IT!
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July 2, 2023
I read A LOT of books, and I'm just being honest when I say that I can read a 5-star book and within hours, I can forget the characters' names. Once in a while though, I'll read a book...meet a character...and I'll just know that I'll never forget them. Soldier. That's a name that I'll never forget.
I'm honestly not sure how I should proceed with this review. For one, I can barely see through my swollen eyes or breathe through my stuffy nose. My face is stained with tears and I feel like I've run an emotional marathon, but let me try...
Soldier was born to be a hero, a protector, a savior. He feels the need to protect at all costs, but some people just can't be saved, and maybe Soldier just needs someone to try to save him.
That's all I'm telling you about this story, because you really just need to read it for yourself. I will warn you that there are triggers galore in this book, so read with caution. I will also tell you that this is a heavy, heartbreaking, gut wrenching masterpiece. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, and at it's core, that's what this story is. It's a second chance at life. It's a reminder that life is sometimes cruel and unfair, but behind the darkest of shadows, sometimes the light will shine through. It's a story of redemption and forgiveness, and above all, it's a story of love. This truly is a beautifully heartbreaking love story.
I've said for years that Kelsey Kingsley is one of the most talented authors out there today. As I've read her books over time, her passion, talent and writing has only continued to grow. With this book though? She has truly undone herself. This isn't just some romance novel that you read and forget. I lived this book right along with Soldier and Rain. Every disappointment, heartbreak, fear...I felt it all. I sat through so much of this story with a lump in my throat and a sense of foreboding hanging over my head. I thought I knew where this story was headed, only to be surprised again and again. I wanted to get to the end, but I didn't want the story to be over. This is just one of those books that I'll never forget.
I'm honestly not sure how I should proceed with this review. For one, I can barely see through my swollen eyes or breathe through my stuffy nose. My face is stained with tears and I feel like I've run an emotional marathon, but let me try...
Soldier was born to be a hero, a protector, a savior. He feels the need to protect at all costs, but some people just can't be saved, and maybe Soldier just needs someone to try to save him.
That's all I'm telling you about this story, because you really just need to read it for yourself. I will warn you that there are triggers galore in this book, so read with caution. I will also tell you that this is a heavy, heartbreaking, gut wrenching masterpiece. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, and at it's core, that's what this story is. It's a second chance at life. It's a reminder that life is sometimes cruel and unfair, but behind the darkest of shadows, sometimes the light will shine through. It's a story of redemption and forgiveness, and above all, it's a story of love. This truly is a beautifully heartbreaking love story.
I've said for years that Kelsey Kingsley is one of the most talented authors out there today. As I've read her books over time, her passion, talent and writing has only continued to grow. With this book though? She has truly undone herself. This isn't just some romance novel that you read and forget. I lived this book right along with Soldier and Rain. Every disappointment, heartbreak, fear...I felt it all. I sat through so much of this story with a lump in my throat and a sense of foreboding hanging over my head. I thought I knew where this story was headed, only to be surprised again and again. I wanted to get to the end, but I didn't want the story to be over. This is just one of those books that I'll never forget.
March 3, 2024
4.5 ⭐
Maybe I should have written this review when I finished reading this book. Even though I enjoyed it, I have a memory of a fish, and I already started forgetting it.
Anyway, this is Soldier(H)'s story from literally the moment he was born. It was so sad; it had been a while since I cried because of a book, and by the end of this one, I was a freaking mess.
I loved how the author's writing was so simple yet deep. It makes you feel every emotion Soldier felt.
We tend to judge others by their past mistakes. This book was eye-opening, showing that sometimes we should give each other a chance, that we can change and become much better versions of ourselves, and that the past should stay in the past.
Soldier was a character who felt so real. What he went through was heartbreaking; he may have made mistakes, but he's an amazing person who carried a big responsibility and guilt at a young age. I loved his character development; the change from the beginning to the end of the book was beautiful.
Rain, the love interest, I didn't get to connect with her much because the book was from the hero's point of view. But it doesn't mean that I didn't like her; she was the change the hero needed, she was his person, and she made him happy.
This book was full of angst, but it was worth it.
If you're in the mood for a good cry, this book is for you!
Note to me: Soldier gave Rain sunflowers on their first date
Maybe I should have written this review when I finished reading this book. Even though I enjoyed it, I have a memory of a fish, and I already started forgetting it.
Anyway, this is Soldier(H)'s story from literally the moment he was born. It was so sad; it had been a while since I cried because of a book, and by the end of this one, I was a freaking mess.
I loved how the author's writing was so simple yet deep. It makes you feel every emotion Soldier felt.
We tend to judge others by their past mistakes. This book was eye-opening, showing that sometimes we should give each other a chance, that we can change and become much better versions of ourselves, and that the past should stay in the past.
Soldier was a character who felt so real. What he went through was heartbreaking; he may have made mistakes, but he's an amazing person who carried a big responsibility and guilt at a young age. I loved his character development; the change from the beginning to the end of the book was beautiful.
Rain, the love interest, I didn't get to connect with her much because the book was from the hero's point of view. But it doesn't mean that I didn't like her; she was the change the hero needed, she was his person, and she made him happy.
This book was full of angst, but it was worth it.
If you're in the mood for a good cry, this book is for you!
Note to me: Soldier gave Rain sunflowers on their first date
-“Why are you looking at me like that?”
-“Like what?”
-“Like you’re seeing me for the first time all over again,”
-“Maybe I am.”
-“What do you see now?”
-“What do I see?
I see my hope,
I see my dreams,
I see my salvation and redemption,
I see the stars,
I see the way they pierce the darkness with light, making the night beautiful when it would otherwise be haunting and terrible.”
July 12, 2023
Wow!!! If you had told me a week ago I was going to fall in love with a character that would surpass Warrior Blue, I would’ve said there’s no way. Well… it happened. Soldier is that character that you root for from the beginning. I’m not sure I remember reading a story that in the beginning we have them as a child. Soldier sucked me into his story. I absolutely loved Harry. The characters from River Canyon, you just can’t help but love them. Ray & Noah were perfect for him. Their stories came together, and you don’t see how until the end.
This story is so good. Seeing it through Soldier’s eyes had me in tears, laughing, or ready to throw things mad. This author is so good at creating the world around her characters. We fall in love with all of them. I think we all know someone with a drug problem, and all we want is to save them. This book shows how frustrating it is.
This story is so good. Seeing it through Soldier’s eyes had me in tears, laughing, or ready to throw things mad. This author is so good at creating the world around her characters. We fall in love with all of them. I think we all know someone with a drug problem, and all we want is to save them. This book shows how frustrating it is.
March 11, 2024
Edit for second time around. Listened to the audio the week it came back and it was just as amazing second time around. Kelsey is a storyteller unlike no other. The audio was amazing and put all my feelings into the tone of their voice. To hear it was something else entirely. ♾️ stars. Always.
• • •
I read this book in one sitting and I’m just sitting here… in awe. Ms. Kingsley, what was in this book? Because I’m still sitting here trying to process everything and I’m shook. It was like a dream?
Kelsey gave us a beautiful story about forgiveness through a man named Solider who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders. From the very beginning, as a baby, the weight of the world was put on him and instead of learning how to get rid of it, he just kept piling it to.
This book starts out as Solider is being born, but then continues to jump through the years. His pivotal moments in life are told and then something tragic happens and leads him to prison for close to a decade. During that time he befriends a guard who basically takes him in and he continues to write to someone who, for all intents and purposes, doesn’t even exist. (She does, but he didn’t know that.) when he gets out of prison, that’s when the real plot of this book starts. It’s who he works for, what town he goes to, who his neighbors are, and more. There’s two people in particular that he shows interest in - the little boy who was the first person to show him kindness at the grocery store… and his mom. I’ll leave it there.
This is a beautiful story about forgiveness. People forgiving him, him forgiving himself, and then acceptance too - the people in this town can choose to think of him in one way, but they soon realize how wrong they are. And he has to accept who he is, too.
Also, Solider is a 6’7” broody, morally grey, tattooed hero. I’ll leave that with you to mull over.
I don’t want to give away much because really it’s a remarkable story. I don’t think I’ve read anything this good in a while and I think it’s one of my top 2023 reads now.
P.S. have you read In the Weeds (Lovelight farms 2) by B.K. Borison? Because I essentially picture Solider as Beckett but with a dark past. I hope that sells you.
Thank you Kelsey for the opportunity to read this book early in exchange for an honest review. You’ve officially become one of my auto-buy authors. You’re amazing.
5⭐️ 1🌶️
Tropes
- Just out of prison
- Single mom
- Small town
- Second chance(ish)
- Hero’s POV
• • •
I read this book in one sitting and I’m just sitting here… in awe. Ms. Kingsley, what was in this book? Because I’m still sitting here trying to process everything and I’m shook. It was like a dream?
Kelsey gave us a beautiful story about forgiveness through a man named Solider who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders. From the very beginning, as a baby, the weight of the world was put on him and instead of learning how to get rid of it, he just kept piling it to.
This book starts out as Solider is being born, but then continues to jump through the years. His pivotal moments in life are told and then something tragic happens and leads him to prison for close to a decade. During that time he befriends a guard who basically takes him in and he continues to write to someone who, for all intents and purposes, doesn’t even exist. (She does, but he didn’t know that.) when he gets out of prison, that’s when the real plot of this book starts. It’s who he works for, what town he goes to, who his neighbors are, and more. There’s two people in particular that he shows interest in - the little boy who was the first person to show him kindness at the grocery store… and his mom. I’ll leave it there.
This is a beautiful story about forgiveness. People forgiving him, him forgiving himself, and then acceptance too - the people in this town can choose to think of him in one way, but they soon realize how wrong they are. And he has to accept who he is, too.
Also, Solider is a 6’7” broody, morally grey, tattooed hero. I’ll leave that with you to mull over.
I don’t want to give away much because really it’s a remarkable story. I don’t think I’ve read anything this good in a while and I think it’s one of my top 2023 reads now.
P.S. have you read In the Weeds (Lovelight farms 2) by B.K. Borison? Because I essentially picture Solider as Beckett but with a dark past. I hope that sells you.
Thank you Kelsey for the opportunity to read this book early in exchange for an honest review. You’ve officially become one of my auto-buy authors. You’re amazing.
5⭐️ 1🌶️
Tropes
- Just out of prison
- Single mom
- Small town
- Second chance(ish)
- Hero’s POV
July 22, 2024
DNF @ 63%
This isn’t a terrible story, it’s just not believable. I can suspend disbelief to a huge degree, but even I can’t. I just can’t.
I would say if you liked Archer’s Voice, which I also DNF’ed, then you’ll like this.
It’s from the MMCs perspective only. I think dual POV might’ve saved the book. Unfortunately, the MMC comes across as a man written how a woman would like a man to be with a woman’s voice instead of coming across as masculine and authentic.
He’s NOT morally great. Not even a little bit. He’s as Lily white as they come. Selling drugs in high school just isn’t enough to make him come across as gray. Just a kid trying not to starve. Even his prison time is tame and boring.
But what I really couldn’t get behind was
This isn’t a terrible story, it’s just not believable. I can suspend disbelief to a huge degree, but even I can’t. I just can’t.
I would say if you liked Archer’s Voice, which I also DNF’ed, then you’ll like this.
It’s from the MMCs perspective only. I think dual POV might’ve saved the book. Unfortunately, the MMC comes across as a man written how a woman would like a man to be with a woman’s voice instead of coming across as masculine and authentic.
He’s NOT morally great. Not even a little bit. He’s as Lily white as they come. Selling drugs in high school just isn’t enough to make him come across as gray. Just a kid trying not to starve. Even his prison time is tame and boring.
But what I really couldn’t get behind was
July 18, 2023
I heard this book was the next big thing. The only big thing I got was a big disappointment. I finished it in one night and I low key just hated it. I wanted to quit so many times but mama didn’t raise no quitter. Like I wish we got more of Rain’s POV. I felt like the chemistry was insta love in a way and I hated that. Also Soldier’s life was depressing af (who TF names a kid solider?!) only this was useless and disappointing.
July 20, 2023
i put this off for a few day bc i honestly thought i wouldn’t like it but it was really good!!
this book is all told in the mmc (soldier) pov. honestly this author is the best one (maybe only?) that i’ve read that does the male pov so well.
the first 30%ish of the book is soldiers back story. time jumps through his childhood that showcase specific/life altering events. his mom is an addict and young (18) when she had soldier and unfortunately never could get clean. soldiers childhood was fine up until both of his grandparents died and he was left solely with his mother. when he was old enough he dropped out of high school and started working to keep a roof over their heads, food on the table and the bills paid. 😭 no kid should go through what he did. diane did not deserve her son, ever since he was born she told him he was to save her and soldier did so again and again throughout the whole book.
he eventually started taking from his moms pill stash to sell them for more money. he did this for years until it all came to a head one night when he was 21. his mom had stolen all his savings and used it on drugs. (he was saving to get them out of the shitty town they lived in in hopes of a better life elsewhere)
unfortunately his friend had taken a pill on their way to sell them and it was laced and he died. soldier then spent 10 years in prison.
we don’t meet the fmc (rain) again (they first meet in a time jump when she is 15 and soldier is 18) until he’s out of prison and living in a new town where she also relocated. she’s a single mom to a 12 year old and becomes his new neighbor.
i loved how their relationship progressed. they started out slow, building trust and a friendship before they kinda just naturally fell into that next step of a relationship. she’s a great mom and noah was such a good kid. he was only 12 yet had seen too much that he shouldn’t have and tried to protect his mother against anyone who he thought would hurt her.
i liked seeing that noah and soldier had a relationship/friendship outside of soldier dating his mom.
no third act breakup. no ow drama. om drama kinda? rain’s ex/noah’s dad comes around a few times, nothing good ever comes of his visits bc he was an abusive asshole.
October 13, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️ binged it in 24 hours and this ending had me spiraling !!! so addicting
June 29, 2023
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A poignant story about the human journey and the beauty that comes from overcoming adversity. Please make sure to check TW before reading as this book delves into the familial heartbreak surrounding substance abuse.
I really loved the single POV from a male character for a change. I truly appreciate when an author takes on the challenge of writing a morally grey character because that alone is the human experience. We are all a messy combination of good and bad. Soldier’s story is an important one and I loved following his journey and hearing his thoughts. I loved how his narrative grew and evolved as he aged, beginning with childlike opinions and growing into the better educated thoughts of a man who has been shaped by his experiences. I loved all the side characters in River canyon but especially Harry. Rain and Noah are delightful, and their relationship is endearing and genuine. My heart broke for the difficulties they faced. I loved watching Rain and Soldier learn together about the things they were robbed of in their youth. Overall the story was gripping. My only complaint is that it seemed to tie up really quickly in the last few pages, and I wish that the pacing could have been a little more even.
A poignant story about the human journey and the beauty that comes from overcoming adversity. Please make sure to check TW before reading as this book delves into the familial heartbreak surrounding substance abuse.
I really loved the single POV from a male character for a change. I truly appreciate when an author takes on the challenge of writing a morally grey character because that alone is the human experience. We are all a messy combination of good and bad. Soldier’s story is an important one and I loved following his journey and hearing his thoughts. I loved how his narrative grew and evolved as he aged, beginning with childlike opinions and growing into the better educated thoughts of a man who has been shaped by his experiences. I loved all the side characters in River canyon but especially Harry. Rain and Noah are delightful, and their relationship is endearing and genuine. My heart broke for the difficulties they faced. I loved watching Rain and Soldier learn together about the things they were robbed of in their youth. Overall the story was gripping. My only complaint is that it seemed to tie up really quickly in the last few pages, and I wish that the pacing could have been a little more even.
July 12, 2023
⭐️Rating: 5/5
✍🏼Author: Kelsey Kingsley
📖Genre: Romantic Suspense
READ THIS BOOK!!
Saving Rain is truly a remarkable book. It's about Soldier, who has had his share of unfortunate events that led him to making poor decisions resulting in a traumatic event that landed him in prison. Soldier has gained his reputation of being a troubled young man, up to no good, but deep down he has the heart of gold and is determined to prove to himself to everyone who has ever doubted him. There is one person in his life, who knows that he's a good person, and that's the girl he once saved- Rain.
After Soldier gets out of prison, he ends up reconnecting with Rain and her adorable son, Noah. He has a chance to start his life over, and this time, it will be better... right? Or will his troubling past come back to interfere with his new life he has built?
This was my first-time reading Kelsey Kingsley, and I feel like I've missed out. Kelsey does a great job storytelling this beautiful, tragic story that literally pulls at your heartstrings. Be prepared to cry! I am so in love with these characters - Soldier, Rain, Harry, little Noah - ahhhh! I need more. I think this book is a great reminder, that you always have the opportunity to rewrite your narrative, even if it feels like the world is against you.
Thank you so much Kelsey for writing this, can't wait to read more of your work!
✍🏼Author: Kelsey Kingsley
📖Genre: Romantic Suspense
READ THIS BOOK!!
Saving Rain is truly a remarkable book. It's about Soldier, who has had his share of unfortunate events that led him to making poor decisions resulting in a traumatic event that landed him in prison. Soldier has gained his reputation of being a troubled young man, up to no good, but deep down he has the heart of gold and is determined to prove to himself to everyone who has ever doubted him. There is one person in his life, who knows that he's a good person, and that's the girl he once saved- Rain.
After Soldier gets out of prison, he ends up reconnecting with Rain and her adorable son, Noah. He has a chance to start his life over, and this time, it will be better... right? Or will his troubling past come back to interfere with his new life he has built?
This was my first-time reading Kelsey Kingsley, and I feel like I've missed out. Kelsey does a great job storytelling this beautiful, tragic story that literally pulls at your heartstrings. Be prepared to cry! I am so in love with these characters - Soldier, Rain, Harry, little Noah - ahhhh! I need more. I think this book is a great reminder, that you always have the opportunity to rewrite your narrative, even if it feels like the world is against you.
Thank you so much Kelsey for writing this, can't wait to read more of your work!
November 12, 2024
3.25⭐️
A little drawn out especially with the beginning being his entire back story before we even get to the romance part. Definitely character driven and a book where I felt we were following the MMC and his life rather than a romance. Other than that it was decent.
A little drawn out especially with the beginning being his entire back story before we even get to the romance part. Definitely character driven and a book where I felt we were following the MMC and his life rather than a romance. Other than that it was decent.
October 25, 2025
3.5⭐️
I like this kind of book, the emotional journey and focused on personal growth. There were a lot of beautiful relationships here but my favorite was definitely the one between the MMC and the FMC’s son.
______
Book info:
— H (30-31) / h (28)
— Single POV (the MMC)
— Single mom to a 12-years-old boy
— Neighbors (strangers to friends to lovers)
— Emotional journey ❤️🩹
— Ex-con
— Protective MMC
— Small town
Safety:
— It’s an emotional journey for the H from his childhood up to turning thirty, so we get his POV during those years (thankfully, there are no details given about his sex life, just a brief mention):
╰➤ When he was 13, he had a crush on his teacher.
╰➤ At 18, he had a f-buddy and she only showed up briefly at the start of the book (10%), there weren’t any on-page scenes between them. The H just mentioned that he didn’t like her but the sex was nice. Also he met the h for the first time when he saved her from someone who tried to SA her (she was 15 yo). He took her home and they didn’t meet again until the present (13-14 years later).
╰➤ At 21, he got arrested and spent nearly 10 years in prison. He was celibate during those years and even after he got out of prison, he wasn’t with anyone until he met the h again (so he had been celibate for over 10 years).
╰➤ The H’s experience is limited and he had never dated anyone before the h. I liked that he experienced a lot of intimacy for the first time with her.
╰➤ After the H saved the h that night, the other man came back again and SA her (off-page) and she got pregnant with her son. He apologized to her after finding out about the pregnancy and said he’d try to be better. They dated for a while ago but they’re not together now. He has been in the picture since then, showing up occasionally and abusing her and their son for years. He also tried to sleep with her multiple times but she didn’t allow him, and that’s why he ended up hurting her.
╰➤ The h was only with her ex. It’s not clear how long she was with him, all we know is that she has a toxic and awful history with sex.
╰➤ The h was celibate for a long time.
— OM:
The h’s ex showed up a few times and caused trouble, he hurt the h physically every time he showed up. He also tried to SA her but the H stopped him at the last moment.
— No ow/cheating
— No 3rd act break up
— HEA
Trigger :
— Loss of loved one (on-page)
— Drug use (on-page / side characters)
— Toxic mother (the H’s mother)
— The h is being abused by her ex (in the past and even now)
I like this kind of book, the emotional journey and focused on personal growth. There were a lot of beautiful relationships here but my favorite was definitely the one between the MMC and the FMC’s son.
______
Book info:
— H (30-31) / h (28)
— Single POV (the MMC)
— Single mom to a 12-years-old boy
— Neighbors (strangers to friends to lovers)
— Emotional journey ❤️🩹
— Ex-con
— Protective MMC
— Small town
Safety:
— It’s an emotional journey for the H from his childhood up to turning thirty, so we get his POV during those years (thankfully, there are no details given about his sex life, just a brief mention):
╰➤ When he was 13, he had a crush on his teacher.
╰➤ At 18, he had a f-buddy and she only showed up briefly at the start of the book (10%), there weren’t any on-page scenes between them. The H just mentioned that he didn’t like her but the sex was nice. Also he met the h for the first time when he saved her from someone who tried to SA her (she was 15 yo). He took her home and they didn’t meet again until the present (13-14 years later).
╰➤ At 21, he got arrested and spent nearly 10 years in prison. He was celibate during those years and even after he got out of prison, he wasn’t with anyone until he met the h again (so he had been celibate for over 10 years).
╰➤ The H’s experience is limited and he had never dated anyone before the h. I liked that he experienced a lot of intimacy for the first time with her.
╰➤ After the H saved the h that night, the other man came back again and SA her (off-page) and she got pregnant with her son. He apologized to her after finding out about the pregnancy and said he’d try to be better. They dated for a while ago but they’re not together now. He has been in the picture since then, showing up occasionally and abusing her and their son for years. He also tried to sleep with her multiple times but she didn’t allow him, and that’s why he ended up hurting her.
╰➤ The h was only with her ex. It’s not clear how long she was with him, all we know is that she has a toxic and awful history with sex.
╰➤ The h was celibate for a long time.
— OM:
The h’s ex showed up a few times and caused trouble, he hurt the h physically every time he showed up. He also tried to SA her but the H stopped him at the last moment.
— No ow/cheating
— No 3rd act break up
— HEA
Trigger :
— Loss of loved one (on-page)
— Drug use (on-page / side characters)
— Toxic mother (the H’s mother)
— The h is being abused by her ex (in the past and even now)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2023
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
**Please read the trigger warnings for this book before diving in because there are elements that might make some people uncomfortable. **
I finished this book a few days ago and have had to sit and process my feelings about it to ensure that I give it the review it deserves. I read a lot of books, and while I thoroughly enjoy most of what I read, I typically don’t spend days thinking about the characters, their story, and how the book makes me feel. This is not the case for Saving Rain.
Saving Rain is a gritty romance full of hard choices, redemption, love, and expertly executed plot twists.
This story starts by delving into Soldier’s past and beautifully captures every choice he had to make in order to survive, and the consequences that landed him in prison. Soldier is an antihero who has nobody on his side and can’t seem to do right by anybody; except Rain on a single night in his youth. After serving his time in prison, Soldier is determined to turn his life around and achieve his lifelong goal to be seen as the good man he so desperately is deep in his heart. By the friendship he developed with Harry (a guard at the prison), Soldier is able to start the next chapter of his life in a new town- where he happens to run into Rain and her son, Noah. That’s all I’ll tell you about what happens because you simply MUST read this book to find out how it unfolds.
There was only one instance where I felt the story was a bit predictable and was irritated with how Soldier handled the situation. However, I understand why he did what he did and can let it slide because of how much I enjoyed the book otherwise.
I liked how original this story felt. When you read as much as I do, it’s hard to find books that don’t have similar elements to the ones you’ve already read. So, this book was a breath of fresh air. I also enjoyed the suspense that the plot twists built up and learning more about the main character as he did. This made me feel even more connected to the characters.
This story was written in a way that instantly pulls the reader in, keeps them engaged, and forms emotional attachments to the characters. I don’t know how she did it, but Kelsey wrote such a depressing and wholesome story. You instantly want to root for Soldier to overcome all of his challenges and you feel every heartache just as he does.
Bottom line, this was a 5/5 read for me and I will absolutely be recommending it to all of my bookish friends.
**Please read the trigger warnings for this book before diving in because there are elements that might make some people uncomfortable. **
I finished this book a few days ago and have had to sit and process my feelings about it to ensure that I give it the review it deserves. I read a lot of books, and while I thoroughly enjoy most of what I read, I typically don’t spend days thinking about the characters, their story, and how the book makes me feel. This is not the case for Saving Rain.
Saving Rain is a gritty romance full of hard choices, redemption, love, and expertly executed plot twists.
This story starts by delving into Soldier’s past and beautifully captures every choice he had to make in order to survive, and the consequences that landed him in prison. Soldier is an antihero who has nobody on his side and can’t seem to do right by anybody; except Rain on a single night in his youth. After serving his time in prison, Soldier is determined to turn his life around and achieve his lifelong goal to be seen as the good man he so desperately is deep in his heart. By the friendship he developed with Harry (a guard at the prison), Soldier is able to start the next chapter of his life in a new town- where he happens to run into Rain and her son, Noah. That’s all I’ll tell you about what happens because you simply MUST read this book to find out how it unfolds.
There was only one instance where I felt the story was a bit predictable and was irritated with how Soldier handled the situation. However, I understand why he did what he did and can let it slide because of how much I enjoyed the book otherwise.
I liked how original this story felt. When you read as much as I do, it’s hard to find books that don’t have similar elements to the ones you’ve already read. So, this book was a breath of fresh air. I also enjoyed the suspense that the plot twists built up and learning more about the main character as he did. This made me feel even more connected to the characters.
This story was written in a way that instantly pulls the reader in, keeps them engaged, and forms emotional attachments to the characters. I don’t know how she did it, but Kelsey wrote such a depressing and wholesome story. You instantly want to root for Soldier to overcome all of his challenges and you feel every heartache just as he does.
Bottom line, this was a 5/5 read for me and I will absolutely be recommending it to all of my bookish friends.
July 15, 2023
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Is it ok if you do the wrong thing for the right reason? This is the crux of Soldier's life. My heart just broke for him and all he endured. He made terrible choices, but perhaps for the right reason, and he paid the price.
While I did enjoy this book, I thought it started out a bit slow. The first several chapters of Soldier's youth kind of slowed the story down, but they were necessary. Once he was released from prison, the story really got going. I just knew things wouldn't be sunshine and roses after that, and at points I had anxiety turning the page, just waiting for the other shoe to drop!
The side characters were great, and what I repeatedly say the best part of Kelsey Kingsley books are the cameos from characters past!
All in all this was a great read!
Is it ok if you do the wrong thing for the right reason? This is the crux of Soldier's life. My heart just broke for him and all he endured. He made terrible choices, but perhaps for the right reason, and he paid the price.
While I did enjoy this book, I thought it started out a bit slow. The first several chapters of Soldier's youth kind of slowed the story down, but they were necessary. Once he was released from prison, the story really got going. I just knew things wouldn't be sunshine and roses after that, and at points I had anxiety turning the page, just waiting for the other shoe to drop!
The side characters were great, and what I repeatedly say the best part of Kelsey Kingsley books are the cameos from characters past!
All in all this was a great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2024
“And that was when I realized that it didn’t always matter what tree the apple fell from. Sometimes, it was just rotten.”
This was so good. Heartbreaking story but it was dragging a bit and sometimes it felt like the same things were happening and there was nothing new, but anyways 5 ⭐ for Soldier being vulnerable and wearing his emotions on his sleeve and making me cry like a little piece of shit. He truly deserves the world. You have to be on a crack to name your child Soldier but the funny thing is his mother was truly a crack addict. (it's not funny but you get the joke)
“That's the cool thing about books, right? Like, you don't have to leave the house to be transported somewhere else”
This was so good. Heartbreaking story but it was dragging a bit and sometimes it felt like the same things were happening and there was nothing new, but anyways 5 ⭐ for Soldier being vulnerable and wearing his emotions on his sleeve and making me cry like a little piece of shit. He truly deserves the world. You have to be on a crack to name your child Soldier but the funny thing is his mother was truly a crack addict. (it's not funny but you get the joke)
“That's the cool thing about books, right? Like, you don't have to leave the house to be transported somewhere else”
August 25, 2023
5 stars
This is the second book I read by Kelsey. This is the first book all year to make me read it one sitting. What an absolute masterpiece. What a beautiful story. When I collect my thoughts I’ll write more.
This is the second book I read by Kelsey. This is the first book all year to make me read it one sitting. What an absolute masterpiece. What a beautiful story. When I collect my thoughts I’ll write more.
July 21, 2023
✩‧₊˚ 𝟐.𝟐𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
★¸.•☆•.¸★ 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧 •☆•.★
𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 (H) tried to beat the odds and do something more in life, but the more he tried, it seemed inevitable to end up in a situation similar to his mother's. When he ends up in prison, he needs a source to vent, so one day, out of desperation, he writes letters to the one person I could think of who he'd never wronged, a girl named Rain whom he once saved. 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧 (h) was protected by Soldier that day, but her life never got better, but when he ends up in her life again, things start to look better for her and her son, Noah.
_________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐
⋆◦•●♡ 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬♡●•◦⋆
I wanted to like this book, but the writing didn’t work out for me. Either that or how the book progressed with the romance when it felt out of place in a book like this. I did admire Soldier’s character and how much he loved his mom when he was a little kid, and it was very sad to see that throughout the years, his perception of her changed when she realized that she was going through an addiction. Everything possible that could go wrong went wrong for Soldier. The people who truly loved and supported him passed away, and he was left alone, especially with the caregiver undergoing an addiction, who wasn’t there for him the way he needed his mother to be. He gave his all for someone who wasn’t willing to do the same, and it wasn't easy to read about someone who has so much potential, but he gave so much to someone who didn’t appreciate what he was doing to save them.
I didn’t love the romance, but I did like the direction of the story's plot. It was interesting to see how people of different upbringings still ended up in the same place, if not worse. Billy grew up with loving parents and a traditional household but fell victim to addiction. Meanwhile, Soldier constantly relied on his grandparents because his mother was an addict. However, he still ended up in jail because he wanted to protect his mother even though she had placed him in that predicament.
_________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐
⋆◦•●♡ 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 ♡●•◦⋆
The romance fell out of place because he met Rain once and "saved" her, but that was enough for him to remember her for years. Then he went to jail for nine years and didn't speak to her again, but he wrote letters to recognize the one person he didn't fail — Rain. Their connection didn't make sense to me because their one interaction didn't feel like a defining moment. While it was special for Soldier, it didn't seem like a groundbreaking moment that would lead him to remember him for all these years. However, I like kids and books, so the interactions between Soldier and Noah — Rain's son, were wholesome and my favorite parts. But beyond that, I was not invested in the relationship between Soldier and Rain. It felt like he had a savior complex because he protected her all those years ago, but I don't understand where and why they fell in love. He kept protecting her, and it felt like he was compensating for his past mistakes since he couldn't protect Billy or his mother.
Halfway into the book, he was already thinking about what it would be to call her his wife. I think it was too soon, and the romance has no progression. It actually did not make sense. Besides Rain and Noah being the only people in the town who accepted Soldier after his release, it was the only thing they could bond about. I must say that he deserves all the love in the world after the shitty life that he's had. I genuinely feel bad because he did so much for his mother; he wanted her to get better, and she never did. As a result, he lost a part of himself, but having Rain and Noah in his life made it better for him. He compares him to a Taylor Swift song; he's "This Is Me Trying" because of the part that says, "I got wasted like all my potential" he never wanted to be like his mother. Still, by trying to protect her, he ended up in a similar situation selling drugs to support her. It wasn't his fault; it was just terrible circumstances that he was dealt with, so he deserves Rain and Noah in his life because he hasn't gotten a break in years.
A quote in the book said the Soldier was a little kid in a man's body, which was so accurate the entire time. He seemed to want his mother's validation throughout the book and wanted to be seen. However, the only people to truly see him were Rain and Noah (and Harry), which is why he felt so deeply connected to Rain because he just wanted to be loved in whatever capacity. Even at the end of the book, he wanted his mom's acceptance, and sadly, she passed away before he got that closure. He was waiting for her to love him back because he adored her as a kid and always wanted her to get better, but unfortunately, addiction got the best of her. Soldier got the life he deserved in the end, and that's the only part worth reading. I'm not too concerned about the romance, and more so how he got his life back together with the support of people he cared about and always believed in his innocence.
*•.¸♡ 𝐎͢𝐕͢𝐄͢𝐑͢𝐀͢𝐋͢𝐋͢ ♡¸.•*
I’m unsure if I would recommend this book, mainly because I didn’t love it. However, I don’t want my experience with it to discourage you from reading it. I’m always trusting booktok recs and forming my opinion; this is just another “not great” rec, and that’s fine.
★¸.•☆•.¸★ 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧 •☆•.★
𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 (H) tried to beat the odds and do something more in life, but the more he tried, it seemed inevitable to end up in a situation similar to his mother's. When he ends up in prison, he needs a source to vent, so one day, out of desperation, he writes letters to the one person I could think of who he'd never wronged, a girl named Rain whom he once saved. 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧 (h) was protected by Soldier that day, but her life never got better, but when he ends up in her life again, things start to look better for her and her son, Noah.
_________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐
⋆◦•●♡ 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬♡●•◦⋆
I wanted to like this book, but the writing didn’t work out for me. Either that or how the book progressed with the romance when it felt out of place in a book like this. I did admire Soldier’s character and how much he loved his mom when he was a little kid, and it was very sad to see that throughout the years, his perception of her changed when she realized that she was going through an addiction. Everything possible that could go wrong went wrong for Soldier. The people who truly loved and supported him passed away, and he was left alone, especially with the caregiver undergoing an addiction, who wasn’t there for him the way he needed his mother to be. He gave his all for someone who wasn’t willing to do the same, and it wasn't easy to read about someone who has so much potential, but he gave so much to someone who didn’t appreciate what he was doing to save them.
I didn’t love the romance, but I did like the direction of the story's plot. It was interesting to see how people of different upbringings still ended up in the same place, if not worse. Billy grew up with loving parents and a traditional household but fell victim to addiction. Meanwhile, Soldier constantly relied on his grandparents because his mother was an addict. However, he still ended up in jail because he wanted to protect his mother even though she had placed him in that predicament.
_________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐
⋆◦•●♡ 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 ♡●•◦⋆
The romance fell out of place because he met Rain once and "saved" her, but that was enough for him to remember her for years. Then he went to jail for nine years and didn't speak to her again, but he wrote letters to recognize the one person he didn't fail — Rain. Their connection didn't make sense to me because their one interaction didn't feel like a defining moment. While it was special for Soldier, it didn't seem like a groundbreaking moment that would lead him to remember him for all these years. However, I like kids and books, so the interactions between Soldier and Noah — Rain's son, were wholesome and my favorite parts. But beyond that, I was not invested in the relationship between Soldier and Rain. It felt like he had a savior complex because he protected her all those years ago, but I don't understand where and why they fell in love. He kept protecting her, and it felt like he was compensating for his past mistakes since he couldn't protect Billy or his mother.
Halfway into the book, he was already thinking about what it would be to call her his wife. I think it was too soon, and the romance has no progression. It actually did not make sense. Besides Rain and Noah being the only people in the town who accepted Soldier after his release, it was the only thing they could bond about. I must say that he deserves all the love in the world after the shitty life that he's had. I genuinely feel bad because he did so much for his mother; he wanted her to get better, and she never did. As a result, he lost a part of himself, but having Rain and Noah in his life made it better for him. He compares him to a Taylor Swift song; he's "This Is Me Trying" because of the part that says, "I got wasted like all my potential" he never wanted to be like his mother. Still, by trying to protect her, he ended up in a similar situation selling drugs to support her. It wasn't his fault; it was just terrible circumstances that he was dealt with, so he deserves Rain and Noah in his life because he hasn't gotten a break in years.
A quote in the book said the Soldier was a little kid in a man's body, which was so accurate the entire time. He seemed to want his mother's validation throughout the book and wanted to be seen. However, the only people to truly see him were Rain and Noah (and Harry), which is why he felt so deeply connected to Rain because he just wanted to be loved in whatever capacity. Even at the end of the book, he wanted his mom's acceptance, and sadly, she passed away before he got that closure. He was waiting for her to love him back because he adored her as a kid and always wanted her to get better, but unfortunately, addiction got the best of her. Soldier got the life he deserved in the end, and that's the only part worth reading. I'm not too concerned about the romance, and more so how he got his life back together with the support of people he cared about and always believed in his innocence.
*•.¸♡ 𝐎͢𝐕͢𝐄͢𝐑͢𝐀͢𝐋͢𝐋͢ ♡¸.•*
I’m unsure if I would recommend this book, mainly because I didn’t love it. However, I don’t want my experience with it to discourage you from reading it. I’m always trusting booktok recs and forming my opinion; this is just another “not great” rec, and that’s fine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2025
3 ⭐️'s
The story of Soldier and Rain was good at first and I enjoyed the way they came together especially at a time when Soldier really needed it. However, you knew bad things were coming and while you were waiting, things got really monotonous.
The big drama finally happens and it's everything you thought it would be but then things got a little out there.
The good part was Rain's POV...I really enjoyed learning about her feelings.
The epilogue was a nice touch but I was a little thrown off by Soldier wanting more. Oh well.
The story of Soldier and Rain was good at first and I enjoyed the way they came together especially at a time when Soldier really needed it. However, you knew bad things were coming and while you were waiting, things got really monotonous.
The big drama finally happens and it's everything you thought it would be but then things got a little out there.
The good part was Rain's POV...I really enjoyed learning about her feelings.
The epilogue was a nice touch but I was a little thrown off by Soldier wanting more. Oh well.
March 5, 2024
4.75⭐️
OMGGG😭💖
i cried a lot in the beginning and everytime this man say anything about his past how he feels i cry again. it was really emotional & beautiful at the end and i'm so happy he finally got his happy ending.
it's the first book i read in the male pov and it's the only time i cared for their opinion tbh.
OMGGG😭💖
i cried a lot in the beginning and everytime this man say anything about his past how he feels i cry again. it was really emotional & beautiful at the end and i'm so happy he finally got his happy ending.
it's the first book i read in the male pov and it's the only time i cared for their opinion tbh.
July 15, 2023
Is there anything left of my heart??! 😩😭 To say I loved this book is an understatement.
Soldier and Rain were soulmates😍 this book was everything!!
Soldier and Rain were soulmates😍 this book was everything!!
July 1, 2023
You will feel absolutely wrung out close to the end of this story. And you’ll feel hopeless. Scared. Sad. So very sad. But then? Hope wakes up again. And the fact that Soldier is able to break the chain, along with an incredibly unexpected person in the end, is enough to make this book one you wish didn’t have to end.
Soldier has spent his entire life protecting. His mom. His friend. A girl. His heart. And what has he gotten for it? Misery. He doesn’t even fight what he deems his deserving penance. All of that proves just how good a person he is, from start to finish. Once his penance has been paid, he’s dealt another blow and needs to find a new start. Luckily, he gets it. And he gets a town that seems to love him as much as he loves it, even though he thinks the people there likely don’t want him around much. He also gets Rain. The girl he once knew has grown into a woman he definitely wants to know, but complications are all around. Is he ever destined to have good in life, or will Soldier always be just short of reaching out to grasp that which he so desperately wants?
This might very well be my favorite book from this author. It’s full of emotions that grab you from the first page and refuse to let go. It’s a man trying to find his way, along with a woman doing the same. It’s second chances. It’s secrets and lies and truths and sacrifice. It’s….life. You won’t even feel the time slipping by while you’re with Soldier and Rain and Noah and Harry and everyone else. You’ll be shocked to find that an hour or more has passed while you’ve been in Soldier’s head. And you’ll feel every bit of fear, sadness, pain, hope, and love that he and Rain both feel by the end. Then you’ll wish for more.
Soldier has spent his entire life protecting. His mom. His friend. A girl. His heart. And what has he gotten for it? Misery. He doesn’t even fight what he deems his deserving penance. All of that proves just how good a person he is, from start to finish. Once his penance has been paid, he’s dealt another blow and needs to find a new start. Luckily, he gets it. And he gets a town that seems to love him as much as he loves it, even though he thinks the people there likely don’t want him around much. He also gets Rain. The girl he once knew has grown into a woman he definitely wants to know, but complications are all around. Is he ever destined to have good in life, or will Soldier always be just short of reaching out to grasp that which he so desperately wants?
This might very well be my favorite book from this author. It’s full of emotions that grab you from the first page and refuse to let go. It’s a man trying to find his way, along with a woman doing the same. It’s second chances. It’s secrets and lies and truths and sacrifice. It’s….life. You won’t even feel the time slipping by while you’re with Soldier and Rain and Noah and Harry and everyone else. You’ll be shocked to find that an hour or more has passed while you’ve been in Soldier’s head. And you’ll feel every bit of fear, sadness, pain, hope, and love that he and Rain both feel by the end. Then you’ll wish for more.
July 14, 2023
Saving Rain
Saving Rain was a fabulous book, one of my favorites of the entire year, and then some. The characters were so amazingly written. Soldier is my perfect hero. He has the sweetest, most protective heart. Noah was the sweetest kid and helped make this book everything it is. I loved Harry and the fact that he took Soldier under his wing and helped make him the man he became. I hated Seth and was glad he got what he deserved. Kelsey, you did an amazing job. This is your best book yet. I so can't wait for Stormy's book.
Saving Rain was a fabulous book, one of my favorites of the entire year, and then some. The characters were so amazingly written. Soldier is my perfect hero. He has the sweetest, most protective heart. Noah was the sweetest kid and helped make this book everything it is. I loved Harry and the fact that he took Soldier under his wing and helped make him the man he became. I hated Seth and was glad he got what he deserved. Kelsey, you did an amazing job. This is your best book yet. I so can't wait for Stormy's book.
July 20, 2023
What a beautifully sad story! Soldier was born into such a tough life and he just really wanted to be loved by his mom and be a good person. This story takes you on his journey from beginning to end and my heart just broke for him with every obstacle that was thrown his way. Not only does this story show us that sometimes good people do bad things, but it also shows us that there are genuinely nice people that see the good in others. I couldn't help but be so proud of the man Soldier became, even when the world was against him. I loved this.
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