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Silver Rain
Al is the black sheep of his family, Kate, the good shepherd of hers. Can black and white become silver, or just a dark and dangerous grey?
Alastair Black has revealed a secret to his wife in a last ditch attempt to save his marriage. A return to his childhood family home at Chathill Farm is his only respite, although he is far from welcomed back by brother George.
Kate, recently widowed and increasingly put upon by daughter, sister and mother, feels her life is over at fifty. Until she meets Alastair. He’s everything she isn’t, but he’s a troubled soul, a sad clown of a man with a shady past. When his famous mother leaves an unexpected inheritance, Kate is caught up in the unravelling of his life as Al comes to terms with who he really is.
Is Alastair Black her true soulmate, or should Sleeping Beauty lie?
Alastair Black has revealed a secret to his wife in a last ditch attempt to save his marriage. A return to his childhood family home at Chathill Farm is his only respite, although he is far from welcomed back by brother George.
Kate, recently widowed and increasingly put upon by daughter, sister and mother, feels her life is over at fifty. Until she meets Alastair. He’s everything she isn’t, but he’s a troubled soul, a sad clown of a man with a shady past. When his famous mother leaves an unexpected inheritance, Kate is caught up in the unravelling of his life as Al comes to terms with who he really is.
Is Alastair Black her true soulmate, or should Sleeping Beauty lie?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2013
6 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Jan Ruth
19 books126 followersJan Ruth lives in Snowdonia, a mountainous area of North Wales, UK. Jan writes contemporary fiction about the darker side of the family dynamic, often blending life in rural Wales with a touch of city business. Her style is best described as fast-paced and realistic, with a sprinkling of dry humour.
The real story began at school, with prizes for short stories and poetry. She failed all things mathematical and scientific, and to this day struggles to make sense of anything numerical.
Her first novel – written in 1986 – attracted the attention of editor Anne Dewe, Andrew Mann Literary Agency, London. Dewe’s own company, Love Stories Ltd, was a project aiming to champion those books of substance which contained a romantic element but were perhaps directed towards the more mature reader and consistently fell through the net in traditional publishing. Summer in October was contracted immediately but sadly, the project failed to get the right financial backing and the company dissolved.
Many years later Jan’s second novel, Wild Water, was taken on by Jane C Judd Literary Agency, London. Despite Judd’s enthusiasm, the book failed to find the right niche with a publisher – one brave enough to expand on those established, traditional genre stereotypes. And then Amazon changed the face of the industry with the advent of self-publishing and Jan went on to successfully publish several works of fiction under her own imprint, Celtic Connections. After a brief partnership with Accent Press in 2015, Jan chose to return to the freedom of independent publishing.
Wild Water won the Cornerstones competition for the most popular self-published book in 2011, and Midnight Sky won the Romantic Review Magazine Award (2013). Silver Rain (2015) and Wild Water (2016) were both finalists in the Wishing Shelf Awards.
Jan’s books are available globally via Amazon as ebooks or paperbacks.
The real story began at school, with prizes for short stories and poetry. She failed all things mathematical and scientific, and to this day struggles to make sense of anything numerical.
Her first novel – written in 1986 – attracted the attention of editor Anne Dewe, Andrew Mann Literary Agency, London. Dewe’s own company, Love Stories Ltd, was a project aiming to champion those books of substance which contained a romantic element but were perhaps directed towards the more mature reader and consistently fell through the net in traditional publishing. Summer in October was contracted immediately but sadly, the project failed to get the right financial backing and the company dissolved.
Many years later Jan’s second novel, Wild Water, was taken on by Jane C Judd Literary Agency, London. Despite Judd’s enthusiasm, the book failed to find the right niche with a publisher – one brave enough to expand on those established, traditional genre stereotypes. And then Amazon changed the face of the industry with the advent of self-publishing and Jan went on to successfully publish several works of fiction under her own imprint, Celtic Connections. After a brief partnership with Accent Press in 2015, Jan chose to return to the freedom of independent publishing.
Wild Water won the Cornerstones competition for the most popular self-published book in 2011, and Midnight Sky won the Romantic Review Magazine Award (2013). Silver Rain (2015) and Wild Water (2016) were both finalists in the Wishing Shelf Awards.
Jan’s books are available globally via Amazon as ebooks or paperbacks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
February 14, 2014
Kate is in a position many women find themselves in at fifty; with a parent who needs extra care and a family who feel she is the one to do it. Her sister Annemarie is too caught up in her own relationship troubles to look after her own children properly and it is left to Kate to be the responsible one. Then things change and Kate starts to think about what her needs are. Tragedy strikes when Kate’s husband Greg dies in an accident after he rushes out of the door and rides off when she tells him their marriage is over leaving her with a bag full of mixed emotions of what she should and shouldn’t feel. She visits Greg’s sister Fran, a friend and ally, for a short break to try and sort herself out but instead she finds herself drawn into their family disharmony and to a secret which has kept Fran’s husband George and his brother Al at loggerheads for years. While Kate re-evaluates what is important to her and where she wants to be things get more complicated still as she finds herself falling for the family blacksheep.
This is a modern and strong family saga with clever twists and turns beautifully synced together making it one of my favourite books this year. It has everything; strong women, human flaws, challenging family relationships, romance and skeletons in the cupboard all flowing together at a good pace.
This is a modern and strong family saga with clever twists and turns beautifully synced together making it one of my favourite books this year. It has everything; strong women, human flaws, challenging family relationships, romance and skeletons in the cupboard all flowing together at a good pace.
August 2, 2017
This is my 1st book by this author and I have to say I have really enjoyed it. A great mix of believable characters and enough drama and plot twists to keep you guessing.
April 30, 2014
Al has lost everything. He just lost his house, his marriage has fallen apart and now he must go to the one place he hasn’t been in 15 yrs. Kate lost her husband over a year ago. Though she lost him she isn’t as upset as everyone assumes. She decides to vacation at her sister in laws house to escape all the reminders of her dead husband. That is where Al and Kate meet. Though Al has brought his haughty girlfriend there is an attraction between Kate and Al that can’t be denied. Though they have a strong connection the secrets they both hold could destroy any possible relationship. Can Al and Kate find the love they both want and never had or will the skeletons come out and kill any prospect of love.
This was a sweet love story with a lot of twists. I really enjoyed the characters of Al and Kate. It was definitely a story where you could see the influence each character had on the other. The twists added a wonderful element with the development of their love story. Though the story was good, it was a bit difficult at times with the British English. I have read books with the use of British English before but there were a lot of things that I couldn’t interpret. Overall, it was a great book even with the few confusing British English/American English terms. The story was strong and the love natural. You will definitely love Al and Kate.
This was a sweet love story with a lot of twists. I really enjoyed the characters of Al and Kate. It was definitely a story where you could see the influence each character had on the other. The twists added a wonderful element with the development of their love story. Though the story was good, it was a bit difficult at times with the British English. I have read books with the use of British English before but there were a lot of things that I couldn’t interpret. Overall, it was a great book even with the few confusing British English/American English terms. The story was strong and the love natural. You will definitely love Al and Kate.
May 14, 2014
Jan Ruth's books are all set in Snowdonia, Wales and her vivid settings play a huge part of each story. Ms Ruth throws the sometime harsh, sometime benign weather at us, adding some gorgeous scenery, and a rural life which often includes horses.
Silver Rain is a story of bewildering family relationships: main protagonist Kate is in her fifties and recently widowed, her selfish and dipsomaniac sister Annemarie, and their confused aged mother. The other family which is equally dysfunctional consists of Kate’s sister-in-law, Fran, husband George and daughter. Plus George’s brother, Alastair (Al) the black sheep of the family, and in the middle of a messy and bitter divorce and - a relationship with a much younger woman, Jo.
Disharmony in these families completely rule! Arguments, fights, sex, greed – they’re all there to read. If you enjoy a good domestic, laced with some mystery (which has kept George and Al at each others throats for years), then you’re in for a treat.
My only problem was I could not relate with Al in any way. Jan portrays her characters well, but I found him to be too indecisive, too casual and not manly enough for my likes – a personal thing I’m sure, and it was Kate who fancied him after all! I just worried that he had enough staying power if and when Kate and he finally got it together.
But all in all, Jan Ruth is a good writer; her books are filled with passion and are not overdone soppy romances, but often gritty and show life as it really is.
4.5 stars out of 5 for Silver Rain.
Faith Mortimer (Goodreads author of mysteries, suspense and romance)
Silver Rain is a story of bewildering family relationships: main protagonist Kate is in her fifties and recently widowed, her selfish and dipsomaniac sister Annemarie, and their confused aged mother. The other family which is equally dysfunctional consists of Kate’s sister-in-law, Fran, husband George and daughter. Plus George’s brother, Alastair (Al) the black sheep of the family, and in the middle of a messy and bitter divorce and - a relationship with a much younger woman, Jo.
Disharmony in these families completely rule! Arguments, fights, sex, greed – they’re all there to read. If you enjoy a good domestic, laced with some mystery (which has kept George and Al at each others throats for years), then you’re in for a treat.
My only problem was I could not relate with Al in any way. Jan portrays her characters well, but I found him to be too indecisive, too casual and not manly enough for my likes – a personal thing I’m sure, and it was Kate who fancied him after all! I just worried that he had enough staying power if and when Kate and he finally got it together.
But all in all, Jan Ruth is a good writer; her books are filled with passion and are not overdone soppy romances, but often gritty and show life as it really is.
4.5 stars out of 5 for Silver Rain.
Faith Mortimer (Goodreads author of mysteries, suspense and romance)
January 26, 2014
Having read and enjoyed Wild Water by the same author, I looked forward to Silver Rain, her latest release. Set again in Wales, it is the story of Al and Kate, both at difficult stages in their lives, meeting and finding a spark between them. Both mature people (another thing I like about Ruth's books) the path to true love does not run smoothly - as might be expected, there is baggage aplenty, including family secrets kept over the years which lead, perhaps inevitably, to animosity and heartache. In fact, all the people surrounding them have baggage of some sort and both characters have to wade through this in order to find each other. All characters are well drawn, the romance is slow burn but all the more believeable for it and, especially towards the end, it is hard to put down. Kate is a great heroine and Al, although slightly bemused by him at first, I grew to love also. Another fabulous book - Jan Ruth is a writer whose books I'll happily wade through.
August 20, 2015
Alistair Black, fifty, divorced and homeless since the house he and his ex-wife had shared has been sold, is rapidly sinking into a state of despair. His only option is to descend on his brother and sister-in-law at the their farmhouse, Chathill, where he grew up. Chathill is actually half his by right even though the brothers are not related by blood. Al and George have been estranged for the last fifteen years and Al’s edited explanation of why sealed the demise of his marriage. So, along with his two dogs, Butter and Marge, and Jo, his new girlfriend, in a camper van stuffed with all his worldly goods, he sets off for North Wales.
Kate Roberts has been widowed for a year and is feeling guilty, about lots of things, not only because she’s packing up her dead husband’s stuff for the charity shop. She’s been invited to Fran’s, Greg’s sister’s, and is looking forward to the break from being at the beck and call of her elderly mother, self-centred daughter and selfish sister. Kate has run round after her sister, Annemarie, for years picking up the pieces and looking after her kids, and has had enough. Kate needs to look after herself for a change. However, it’s not quite the peaceful break Kate was anticipating. The angry vibe emanating from George is palpable and unnerving. Fran and her daughter, Becca, are kept busy looking after their rescued animals, leaving Kate to deal with the domestic chores.
Kate and Al’s introduction is an unconventional one. Kate, deciding to freshen up after arriving at Greg and Fran’s chaotic and run down farm, makes her way to the bathroom and pushes open the door…
**Once inside, she was confronted by a naked man. Starkers! Well, he would be, since it seemed he’d been in the shower cubicle. She was too old to be embarrassed by nudity, but it was still a shock. The little wooden sign swinging on the handle outside had clearly said “vacant”, and there was a distinct absence of any noisy, running water. He was glistening, though, and his hair was dripping. Kate kept her eyes on his, although it was difficult not to glance down - almost impossible in fact - but he was watching her every movement, so she felt not only trapped, but compelled to keep eye contact…….’Hi,’ he said, and extended a hand towards her, ‘I’m Al.’**
I love that Jan Ruth’s novels are real life romances without being overly sentimental and cutesy. Al and Kate are older, interesting and complex, facing realistic situations and issues; dealing with grief, divorce, elderly parents and annoying siblings. I like Kate and especially Al, very much and felt drawn to them both. Kate is good-natured and kind-hearted, Al charismatic and attractive. But as tensions mount and secrets threaten relationships, the emotional fallout could be devastating for them all.
Clever twists in the well structured storyline, non-communication, challenging and uncertain relationships make this a compelling family drama. The setting is wonderful and the characters are credible, fully fleshed out and well portrayed. Chapters alternating from Kate and Al’s points of view move the story along smoothly.
Kate Roberts has been widowed for a year and is feeling guilty, about lots of things, not only because she’s packing up her dead husband’s stuff for the charity shop. She’s been invited to Fran’s, Greg’s sister’s, and is looking forward to the break from being at the beck and call of her elderly mother, self-centred daughter and selfish sister. Kate has run round after her sister, Annemarie, for years picking up the pieces and looking after her kids, and has had enough. Kate needs to look after herself for a change. However, it’s not quite the peaceful break Kate was anticipating. The angry vibe emanating from George is palpable and unnerving. Fran and her daughter, Becca, are kept busy looking after their rescued animals, leaving Kate to deal with the domestic chores.
Kate and Al’s introduction is an unconventional one. Kate, deciding to freshen up after arriving at Greg and Fran’s chaotic and run down farm, makes her way to the bathroom and pushes open the door…
**Once inside, she was confronted by a naked man. Starkers! Well, he would be, since it seemed he’d been in the shower cubicle. She was too old to be embarrassed by nudity, but it was still a shock. The little wooden sign swinging on the handle outside had clearly said “vacant”, and there was a distinct absence of any noisy, running water. He was glistening, though, and his hair was dripping. Kate kept her eyes on his, although it was difficult not to glance down - almost impossible in fact - but he was watching her every movement, so she felt not only trapped, but compelled to keep eye contact…….’Hi,’ he said, and extended a hand towards her, ‘I’m Al.’**
I love that Jan Ruth’s novels are real life romances without being overly sentimental and cutesy. Al and Kate are older, interesting and complex, facing realistic situations and issues; dealing with grief, divorce, elderly parents and annoying siblings. I like Kate and especially Al, very much and felt drawn to them both. Kate is good-natured and kind-hearted, Al charismatic and attractive. But as tensions mount and secrets threaten relationships, the emotional fallout could be devastating for them all.
Clever twists in the well structured storyline, non-communication, challenging and uncertain relationships make this a compelling family drama. The setting is wonderful and the characters are credible, fully fleshed out and well portrayed. Chapters alternating from Kate and Al’s points of view move the story along smoothly.
August 23, 2015
If you are looking for a beautifully written story with lots of twists and turns, hidden secrets and dysfunctional families with a menagerie of farm yard animals then this is the book to check out.
This is the first book I have read of Jan Ruth’s and I have to say that I was impressed with the style of writing and how the story pulls you in so you just have to know what is going on with everyone. The art of being able to keep the attention of the reader when a secret is within the main body of the story just waiting to be figured out can be difficult but Jan has done a great job. All the way through you are trying to guess what the big falling out could be about and I love how you are given snippets throughout to try and put the pieces together.
Alastair is the black sheep of his family. After a feud with his brother that started some 15 years ago he has tried to keep away from his old family home at Chathill. But after the breakdown of his marriage, partly due to revealing his big secret to his then wife, he has nowhere else to go so turns up hoping to stay – with his new, much younger, girlfriend in tow. From the first meeting between Alastair and George you can see that there is no love loss between them. You know that what ever it was that started this feud must have been pretty major.
Kate is recently widowed and wondering what to do with the rest of her life. She is constantly being taken advantage of by her family, her sister the most. Annemarie comes across as someone who refuses to believe they have to grow up – even with four children and a few failed marriages behind her – she is still just looking for someone to take care of her so she doesn’t have to. Plainly put she is very selfish and deserves a good kick up the backside to get her to see what she is doing to those around her. Kate needs to get away from it all, if just for a week, so decides to visit her sister-in-law Fran at Chathill. Her main aim is to go somewhere to relax but she also needs to talk to Fran about something that has been heavy on her mind since the death of her husband. She just never expected that this week would be the turning point in her life of where to go next.
When Kate and Alastair first meet they seem to have a certain connection straight from the off, a chemistry that neither can seem to really deny. Both have secrets to tell though that could hurt the ones they love and tear their families apart. When these secrets and lies both families keep hidden start to come to the surface you know that the journey Kate and Alastair go on is going to be filled with lots of twists and turns. They just have to decide whether the price paid for love is worth it in the end.
I received this ARC from the author for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
This is the first book I have read of Jan Ruth’s and I have to say that I was impressed with the style of writing and how the story pulls you in so you just have to know what is going on with everyone. The art of being able to keep the attention of the reader when a secret is within the main body of the story just waiting to be figured out can be difficult but Jan has done a great job. All the way through you are trying to guess what the big falling out could be about and I love how you are given snippets throughout to try and put the pieces together.
Alastair is the black sheep of his family. After a feud with his brother that started some 15 years ago he has tried to keep away from his old family home at Chathill. But after the breakdown of his marriage, partly due to revealing his big secret to his then wife, he has nowhere else to go so turns up hoping to stay – with his new, much younger, girlfriend in tow. From the first meeting between Alastair and George you can see that there is no love loss between them. You know that what ever it was that started this feud must have been pretty major.
Kate is recently widowed and wondering what to do with the rest of her life. She is constantly being taken advantage of by her family, her sister the most. Annemarie comes across as someone who refuses to believe they have to grow up – even with four children and a few failed marriages behind her – she is still just looking for someone to take care of her so she doesn’t have to. Plainly put she is very selfish and deserves a good kick up the backside to get her to see what she is doing to those around her. Kate needs to get away from it all, if just for a week, so decides to visit her sister-in-law Fran at Chathill. Her main aim is to go somewhere to relax but she also needs to talk to Fran about something that has been heavy on her mind since the death of her husband. She just never expected that this week would be the turning point in her life of where to go next.
When Kate and Alastair first meet they seem to have a certain connection straight from the off, a chemistry that neither can seem to really deny. Both have secrets to tell though that could hurt the ones they love and tear their families apart. When these secrets and lies both families keep hidden start to come to the surface you know that the journey Kate and Alastair go on is going to be filled with lots of twists and turns. They just have to decide whether the price paid for love is worth it in the end.
I received this ARC from the author for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
July 22, 2015
I knew on opening Silver Rain that I would be engaged by a complex family drama set in the beautiful countryside of North Wales but I hadn’t expected to have so much empathy with the two main characters Al and Kate.
Kate is a warm-hearted, mature woman with flame red hair, trying to release herself from guilt, a year after the death of her husband Greg. She is encumbered by a dysfunctional sister, Annemarie, and a frail elderly mother. Her relationship with daughter Tia is in crisis so she is looking forward to a peaceful break, staying with her sister-in-law Fran at Chathill, a ramshackle farmhouse.
Unbeknown to Kate, Fran’s brother-in-law, Al, is also coming to stay, with his young girlfriend Jo, even though he has been estranged from his brother George, Fran’s husband, for 15 years. After the break-up of his marriage, the sale of his house has made Al homeless. There will be no peace for Kate while Fran and daughter Becca care for a menagerie of rescue animals and George fumes at the effrontery of Al coming to stay at Chathill after their disagreement many years earlier.
But what did happen between the two brothers? The underlying theme is secrets. As Kate is drawn closer to Al by his charisma and humanity she needs to know how his close relationship with his brother was destroyed, but increasingly she also finds herself keeping secrets which could destroy their developing relationship.
Interwoven with the main storyline are humour, mystery and passionate romance. Yet the characters, of every age, deal with the problems and joys encountered by us all today. As a reader, you long for a happy ending for Al and Kate but there are also so many other sub-plots that could lead to other interesting tales, especially the back-story of Al’s mother.
To meet Al’s dogs Butter and Marge, Becca’s horses Pumpkin Pie and Candy Floss and see Al in wig, baggy trousers and clown make-up I recommend you begin reading Silver Rain as soon as possible.
Kate is a warm-hearted, mature woman with flame red hair, trying to release herself from guilt, a year after the death of her husband Greg. She is encumbered by a dysfunctional sister, Annemarie, and a frail elderly mother. Her relationship with daughter Tia is in crisis so she is looking forward to a peaceful break, staying with her sister-in-law Fran at Chathill, a ramshackle farmhouse.
Unbeknown to Kate, Fran’s brother-in-law, Al, is also coming to stay, with his young girlfriend Jo, even though he has been estranged from his brother George, Fran’s husband, for 15 years. After the break-up of his marriage, the sale of his house has made Al homeless. There will be no peace for Kate while Fran and daughter Becca care for a menagerie of rescue animals and George fumes at the effrontery of Al coming to stay at Chathill after their disagreement many years earlier.
But what did happen between the two brothers? The underlying theme is secrets. As Kate is drawn closer to Al by his charisma and humanity she needs to know how his close relationship with his brother was destroyed, but increasingly she also finds herself keeping secrets which could destroy their developing relationship.
Interwoven with the main storyline are humour, mystery and passionate romance. Yet the characters, of every age, deal with the problems and joys encountered by us all today. As a reader, you long for a happy ending for Al and Kate but there are also so many other sub-plots that could lead to other interesting tales, especially the back-story of Al’s mother.
To meet Al’s dogs Butter and Marge, Becca’s horses Pumpkin Pie and Candy Floss and see Al in wig, baggy trousers and clown make-up I recommend you begin reading Silver Rain as soon as possible.
November 13, 2014
This is the third book I’ve read by Jan Ruth and she truly never fails to deliver a rattling good contemporary romance.
The stage is set;
Going through a divorce from his wife, Helen, lovable rogue, Al, is going out with Jo who is little older than his daughter. Virtually homeless, because he has to sell his house to give his wife the lion’s share, Al turns up at his brother George’s home (which Al half owns). Al’s arrival is far from welcome, as there is an ongoing feud between Al and his brother due to something Al did, years ago, which George has never forgiven him for. It isn’t long before the cracks become chasms in Al’s relationships with his brother and his girlfriend.
Along comes Kate for a ‘holiday’. She is recently widowed from a husband she didn’t love and friend to George’s wife, Fran. George and Fran’s marriage seems to be going down the pan since Al’s arrival, and Fran is struggling to cope. Kate helps out – it isn’t everyone’s idea of a holiday but it is a welcome break from helping her mother, who seems to be going dotty in her dotage, and Kate’s selfish, immature sister, AnneMarie.
Al is in love with Jo, isn’t he? So why is he so attracted to Kate, despite all his efforts not to be? As George and Fran’s relationship goes from bad to worse, how much is Al to blame? Kate fancies the pants off Al but what if he is nothing more than an untrustworthy heart-breaker? As family secrets begin to surface and tensions mount, the growing attraction between Al and Kate becomes an emotional roller-coaster.
As always with Jan Ruth, the characters are brought to life with immense credibility and their predicaments so real that you can totally relate and feel a rapport with them. Add to all that the dramatic scenery of Snowdonia and you have a great read.
The stage is set;
Going through a divorce from his wife, Helen, lovable rogue, Al, is going out with Jo who is little older than his daughter. Virtually homeless, because he has to sell his house to give his wife the lion’s share, Al turns up at his brother George’s home (which Al half owns). Al’s arrival is far from welcome, as there is an ongoing feud between Al and his brother due to something Al did, years ago, which George has never forgiven him for. It isn’t long before the cracks become chasms in Al’s relationships with his brother and his girlfriend.
Along comes Kate for a ‘holiday’. She is recently widowed from a husband she didn’t love and friend to George’s wife, Fran. George and Fran’s marriage seems to be going down the pan since Al’s arrival, and Fran is struggling to cope. Kate helps out – it isn’t everyone’s idea of a holiday but it is a welcome break from helping her mother, who seems to be going dotty in her dotage, and Kate’s selfish, immature sister, AnneMarie.
Al is in love with Jo, isn’t he? So why is he so attracted to Kate, despite all his efforts not to be? As George and Fran’s relationship goes from bad to worse, how much is Al to blame? Kate fancies the pants off Al but what if he is nothing more than an untrustworthy heart-breaker? As family secrets begin to surface and tensions mount, the growing attraction between Al and Kate becomes an emotional roller-coaster.
As always with Jan Ruth, the characters are brought to life with immense credibility and their predicaments so real that you can totally relate and feel a rapport with them. Add to all that the dramatic scenery of Snowdonia and you have a great read.
July 7, 2014
Jan Ruth’s novels are all set in one of my most favourite parts of the world, so before we get onto plot and characterisation we’re already onto a winner for me.
Protagonists, Kate and Al are poles apart as people and yet similar in many ways. Both approaching middle age, with the baggage and trauma that comes with extended families. Sensible, mature Kate is the antithesis of reckless, immature Al and yet … and yet …
It’s a clichéd love story in many ways … but without any of the clichés. Instead there are lots of secrets, intrigues, twists and turns along the way – guided by what feels a very competent author’s hand. It’s impossible not to bond with both of the lead characters, and like them as much for their flaws and failings as for their strengths. Somehow the fact we see both sides of their personalities makes them all so much more believable. Even the side characters – Fran, Jo, George and Maisie in particular – all leap from the page fully-formed and crystal clear.
The author uses her knowledge and love of Snowdonia and North Wales to full effect, not relying on postcard views to strengthen the scene, but showing us the area is all of its guises, from swollen rivers to windswept beaches to cloud-topped mountain landscapes.
Contemporary women’s fiction is not usually top of my reading pile but I loved this book. It was the first book I’d read by this author, but having sped through the novel in three sittings, I can’t wait to try another!
Protagonists, Kate and Al are poles apart as people and yet similar in many ways. Both approaching middle age, with the baggage and trauma that comes with extended families. Sensible, mature Kate is the antithesis of reckless, immature Al and yet … and yet …
It’s a clichéd love story in many ways … but without any of the clichés. Instead there are lots of secrets, intrigues, twists and turns along the way – guided by what feels a very competent author’s hand. It’s impossible not to bond with both of the lead characters, and like them as much for their flaws and failings as for their strengths. Somehow the fact we see both sides of their personalities makes them all so much more believable. Even the side characters – Fran, Jo, George and Maisie in particular – all leap from the page fully-formed and crystal clear.
The author uses her knowledge and love of Snowdonia and North Wales to full effect, not relying on postcard views to strengthen the scene, but showing us the area is all of its guises, from swollen rivers to windswept beaches to cloud-topped mountain landscapes.
Contemporary women’s fiction is not usually top of my reading pile but I loved this book. It was the first book I’d read by this author, but having sped through the novel in three sittings, I can’t wait to try another!
January 5, 2014
It took me a little longer to fall in love with naughty Al, than Ms. Ruth's other heroes. They are all delightfully flawed and none more so than silver-tongued Al. But it was hopeless, as I knew it would be, and by the end he'd won me over. Not just me either; sensible guilt-ridden Kate of the outsize conscience didn't have a chance. I'm not a regular romance fiction reader but I know good writing when I see it and this is great. Tight, nothing extraneous, emotional without soppiness, this is more real life than escapist romance and all the more involving for it. Nice too, that the protagonists aren't beautiful young things but mature people with more than their fair share of life experience. As always with this author, landscape is the background character and never disappoints. We even get a slice of New Zealand and it's just as convincing. All the minor characters are nicely fleshed out too but I especially loved the animals, particularly their names. For country lovers everywhere and lovers of good, characterful fiction, I recommend Silver Rain and all Ms.Ruth's books.
April 25, 2014
Eyes meet across the bathroom. Only people in Jan Ruth's books meet in such ... interesting ... circumstances and spark off unlikely relationships with such multi-faceted layers. Complex, real and genuine people. You probably know them. They have quirks and personalities, tempers and tears - and that's what makes them come alive on the page.
These people come with baggage - husbands, wives and lovers. There are secrets galore, horses, dogs and all manner of other complications. Al's left his wife and is involved with a much younger woman. Kate's 50, a widow with a demanding elderly parent and a wayward sister. They meet at a farmhouse in Wales. Everything is geared up to explode. And it does.
This isn't chick lit. There's a lot more in this book than just the words of a story. It's about growing older - gracefully or otherwise - learning to like who you are and deal with the past before you move on to the future. A great story and recommended. Oh - and this'd be a great one for a book-club read too.
These people come with baggage - husbands, wives and lovers. There are secrets galore, horses, dogs and all manner of other complications. Al's left his wife and is involved with a much younger woman. Kate's 50, a widow with a demanding elderly parent and a wayward sister. They meet at a farmhouse in Wales. Everything is geared up to explode. And it does.
This isn't chick lit. There's a lot more in this book than just the words of a story. It's about growing older - gracefully or otherwise - learning to like who you are and deal with the past before you move on to the future. A great story and recommended. Oh - and this'd be a great one for a book-club read too.
November 8, 2014
I struggled to read this book...because I originally got it in paperback format. As I usually read at night in bed - often into the early hours - my long-suffering partner was none too impressed! To save me from his irritable huffing I bought the Kindle version...because as with her other novels Wild Water and Dark Water I needed my nightly fix of Jan Ruth's realistic, believable, likeable yet flawed characters and evocative descriptions of their imperfect lives in North Wales.
Not your typical romance? No...and all the better for it. This is romantic realism, with protagonists that I can relate to because...shock, horror...they're my generation. Kate and Al are definitely in their mid-life and definitely in crisis and the author skillfully uses the turbulence and uncertainty that this second adolescence can bring to create a compelling story, with a satisfying number of twists and turns. Highly recommended...even if you're under 50!
Not your typical romance? No...and all the better for it. This is romantic realism, with protagonists that I can relate to because...shock, horror...they're my generation. Kate and Al are definitely in their mid-life and definitely in crisis and the author skillfully uses the turbulence and uncertainty that this second adolescence can bring to create a compelling story, with a satisfying number of twists and turns. Highly recommended...even if you're under 50!
February 23, 2014
This book was absolutely fantastic. I had trouble leaving it alone and had to read full chapters before going to sleep as I couldn't settle in the middle of it. The characters are brilliantly written and well described, the reader is left feeling as if you are related to them in some way and I was sorry to finish it. If only I knew what happened next. Will there be a sequel maybe?
The chaotic lifestyle at the farm and the numerous characters involved along with their tangled love-lives was thrilling. Even the dogs and horses had their own personalities and I loved every word. Well done, Jan Ruth - can't wait for the next one!!
The chaotic lifestyle at the farm and the numerous characters involved along with their tangled love-lives was thrilling. Even the dogs and horses had their own personalities and I loved every word. Well done, Jan Ruth - can't wait for the next one!!
November 11, 2015
My first book by this author, after reading an author interview I thought I would enjoy the settings and the 'real people'. I was involved straight away with the complex story and characters who we could empathise with. A cracking story and the farm central to the story has a unique character of its own.
April 1, 2016
I was given this book from the lovely Jan Ruth herself.With this book I would say do not judge a book by it's cover. I loved it, it had a brilliant beginning, middle and ending. I was sad when it ended. This is my first book by her and I would definitely want to read more of Jan's books. This is a modern family saga with some clever twist and turns. One not too be missed.
December 27, 2020
Jan Ruth is a master at writing realistic second-chance love stories. I've read everything she's written, and I'd been saving this one for last because I didn't want to run out of Jan Ruth books to read. Well, I can safely say, I wasn't disappointed. As a matter of fact, this is one of my favorites, right after the Midnight Sky Series. In my opinion, it's even better than Wild Water. It's just absolutely one of my favorite books by anyone.
Why? What is it about this book? Well, as usual with Ruth books, she's got the Welsh countryside with the horses and dogs, the city life vs. country living, and the former ugly marriage life with older kids, leading up to disasters, conflicts, villains ready to ruin everything, and of course, the prospect of a new love, if, just if...
But Ruth will keep you guessing until the end. There is nothing cliché about her work, which is one of the reasons why it stands out against the rest. Silver Rain is a little zany at times, a little dark and dreary as the title indicates, but it's also funny and heartwarming, and everything you could hope for in a love story.
Why? What is it about this book? Well, as usual with Ruth books, she's got the Welsh countryside with the horses and dogs, the city life vs. country living, and the former ugly marriage life with older kids, leading up to disasters, conflicts, villains ready to ruin everything, and of course, the prospect of a new love, if, just if...
But Ruth will keep you guessing until the end. There is nothing cliché about her work, which is one of the reasons why it stands out against the rest. Silver Rain is a little zany at times, a little dark and dreary as the title indicates, but it's also funny and heartwarming, and everything you could hope for in a love story.
April 25, 2016
First an apology to author Jan Ruth for taking so long to read this book. It has been waiting to be read in my kindle for many months.
This is a book with complex family dynamics at its centre and for me, it served as a pleasant break from the murders, blood and gore I usually find in the books I read.
Al's life is in tatters. His financial status, his love life and his family relationships are all in a desperate situation. After a bitter separation, his house has been sold, and not having anywhere else to go he returns to his childhood's farmhouse - Chathall, with his new young girlfriend Jo in tow.
"We were all right until he came back."
But at the farm lives his estranged brother George (with whom he had a massive falling out fifteen years previously) and his family - wife Fran and daughter Becca - together with a thousand or so animals. Needless to say, George is not impressed by his brother's sudden reappearance, but Al has no intention of leaving the place, after all he's the owner of the ramshackle farm as much as his brother is. Fran and Becca, on the other hand, welcome him with open arms.
After a full year grieving her husband's death, Kate finally decides to move on with her life. She goes to spend some days with her sister-in-law, Fran at Chathall farm. There she meets Al for the first time and he's immediately transfixed by the red-haired beauty. But Jo is there with him. Soon Kate finds herself in the middle of a rapidly deteriorating situation. She realises that unknowingly she'd turned up right in the middle of a family crisis.
Why did Al's return stir up so much tension in the farmhouse? Why is George so angry with his brother? What happened fifteen years before? What's the big secret at the heart of the story?
This novel is essentially a love story with a lot of tension, heartache, regrets and twists. It is full of very realistic, flawed, mature characters. I felt as if I've known these persons all my life. With the exception of a couple, I liked them all, especially Al and Kate. Even though at times there was a lot of tension, frequent squabbles and skeletons falling out of wardrobes, I felt part of that family and welcomed at Chathall farm just the same.
I loved the setting of the book. Through her vivid descriptions, the author took me to Snowdonia, a place with unrivaled natural beauty that I now dream to visit one day. I also loved the homely feeling of the crumbling farmhouse, overstaffed with animals, people and junk and clutter lying around everywhere.
I really liked the ending of this book and when I finished it, I felt as if I have lost a bunch of good old friends and I miss them all already!
This was my first book by Jan Ruth and it certainly won't be my last. Though it is not of the genre I usually go for I have to say that I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.
This is a book with complex family dynamics at its centre and for me, it served as a pleasant break from the murders, blood and gore I usually find in the books I read.
Al's life is in tatters. His financial status, his love life and his family relationships are all in a desperate situation. After a bitter separation, his house has been sold, and not having anywhere else to go he returns to his childhood's farmhouse - Chathall, with his new young girlfriend Jo in tow.
"We were all right until he came back."
But at the farm lives his estranged brother George (with whom he had a massive falling out fifteen years previously) and his family - wife Fran and daughter Becca - together with a thousand or so animals. Needless to say, George is not impressed by his brother's sudden reappearance, but Al has no intention of leaving the place, after all he's the owner of the ramshackle farm as much as his brother is. Fran and Becca, on the other hand, welcome him with open arms.
After a full year grieving her husband's death, Kate finally decides to move on with her life. She goes to spend some days with her sister-in-law, Fran at Chathall farm. There she meets Al for the first time and he's immediately transfixed by the red-haired beauty. But Jo is there with him. Soon Kate finds herself in the middle of a rapidly deteriorating situation. She realises that unknowingly she'd turned up right in the middle of a family crisis.
Why did Al's return stir up so much tension in the farmhouse? Why is George so angry with his brother? What happened fifteen years before? What's the big secret at the heart of the story?
This novel is essentially a love story with a lot of tension, heartache, regrets and twists. It is full of very realistic, flawed, mature characters. I felt as if I've known these persons all my life. With the exception of a couple, I liked them all, especially Al and Kate. Even though at times there was a lot of tension, frequent squabbles and skeletons falling out of wardrobes, I felt part of that family and welcomed at Chathall farm just the same.
I loved the setting of the book. Through her vivid descriptions, the author took me to Snowdonia, a place with unrivaled natural beauty that I now dream to visit one day. I also loved the homely feeling of the crumbling farmhouse, overstaffed with animals, people and junk and clutter lying around everywhere.
I really liked the ending of this book and when I finished it, I felt as if I have lost a bunch of good old friends and I miss them all already!
This was my first book by Jan Ruth and it certainly won't be my last. Though it is not of the genre I usually go for I have to say that I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.
September 2, 2015
Jan Ruth owes me about a week of my much-needed beauty sleep. To be fair, it's not all her fault, because I know very well that when I pick up one of her books, I'll have a long, hard struggle to put it down again until I've finished it. And 'Silver Rain' is no exception. In fact this author just continues to get better with each book she produces.
'Silver Rain' is Al and Kate's story, and though they've both waved goodbye to their forties, their love story is as fresh and poignant as Jack and Rose's or Romeo and Juliet's. They are both hugely likeable, though sometimes rather stubborn in their efforts to be sensible and act their age.
Al is immature, homeless, jobless, penniless, apparently sponging off his rather gorgeous, successful and much younger girlfriend. Not a very appealing image for a hero, maybe. But Al has a heart of pure gold, always willing to give up his last penny to anyone; he's deeply sensitive, a devoted father, fun and caring grandfather, sensitive brother-in-law, friend to humans and animals alike - well, just about everything to everyone - including those who definitely don't deserve it. He'll dress up as Freddie the clown and walk through a busy shopping mall to gatecrash Kate's place of work and bring a little birthday cheer. And okay, his escapade succeeds in losing Kate her job - but it's all about the thought, and it was a horrible job anyway.
Sensible Kate hides behind a tougher exterior, but she's a modern-day Anne Elliot, always there for everyone to take advantage of her (which they invariably do). It's a pleasure to see the way Kate develops as the story progresses, but difficult to want her to gain enough independence to allow her to cast off everyone around her.
And it’s the everyone around her (and Al) who colour the pages of this heart-warming story so beautifully. Jan Ruth has a wonderful way with characters that makes you recognise them, love them or hate them, but just want to know them. Take Kate's selfish and disreputable sister, her endearing elderly mother, or Al's outrageous soon-to-be-ex-wife and his nasty-minded brother, just to scratch the surface - you know you should, but you can't dislike them because they're all far too entertaining.
'Silver Rain' shows Jan Ruth's writing at its best. The wonderfully presented characters, familiar, rich Welsh backdrop and compelling storylines full of interest and intrigue all blend together to create the kind of story for which, well, quite frankly, if you like to read at bedtime, you'd better be prepared to give up sleep for several nights. But I promise you, it will be worth it.
'Silver Rain' is Al and Kate's story, and though they've both waved goodbye to their forties, their love story is as fresh and poignant as Jack and Rose's or Romeo and Juliet's. They are both hugely likeable, though sometimes rather stubborn in their efforts to be sensible and act their age.
Al is immature, homeless, jobless, penniless, apparently sponging off his rather gorgeous, successful and much younger girlfriend. Not a very appealing image for a hero, maybe. But Al has a heart of pure gold, always willing to give up his last penny to anyone; he's deeply sensitive, a devoted father, fun and caring grandfather, sensitive brother-in-law, friend to humans and animals alike - well, just about everything to everyone - including those who definitely don't deserve it. He'll dress up as Freddie the clown and walk through a busy shopping mall to gatecrash Kate's place of work and bring a little birthday cheer. And okay, his escapade succeeds in losing Kate her job - but it's all about the thought, and it was a horrible job anyway.
Sensible Kate hides behind a tougher exterior, but she's a modern-day Anne Elliot, always there for everyone to take advantage of her (which they invariably do). It's a pleasure to see the way Kate develops as the story progresses, but difficult to want her to gain enough independence to allow her to cast off everyone around her.
And it’s the everyone around her (and Al) who colour the pages of this heart-warming story so beautifully. Jan Ruth has a wonderful way with characters that makes you recognise them, love them or hate them, but just want to know them. Take Kate's selfish and disreputable sister, her endearing elderly mother, or Al's outrageous soon-to-be-ex-wife and his nasty-minded brother, just to scratch the surface - you know you should, but you can't dislike them because they're all far too entertaining.
'Silver Rain' shows Jan Ruth's writing at its best. The wonderfully presented characters, familiar, rich Welsh backdrop and compelling storylines full of interest and intrigue all blend together to create the kind of story for which, well, quite frankly, if you like to read at bedtime, you'd better be prepared to give up sleep for several nights. But I promise you, it will be worth it.
September 1, 2015
As the blurb suggests the book follows the struggling Ali, who going through a divorce from his wife Helen and in turn is dating the lovely Jo who is just a little older than his daughter. Struggling to find somewhere stable to live, due to the troubles of the divorce he returns to his childhood home, which is shared between himself and his brother George. Far from an easy reunion due to an ongoing argument between the two, the cracks begin to show between Al, Jo and George. Kate however is there for a holiday of sorts. Recently widowed and a friend of Fran (George’s wife) Kate helps out, trying to smooth over the cracks in not only Fran and George’s withering marriage but also the intermingling awkwardness as a whole. However she begins to fall for Al causing the balance to shift; but is he just a heart-breaker? Will everything finally come to a head? One will have to read ‘Silver Rain’ to find out.
I have to be honest I haven’t read anything from this author before this book but I was suitably impressed with the level of detail brought to the characters. Brought to life by the words written, they are told with gusto and flair. They have a real grittiness about them and their flaws, the turbulence between the relationships and the exasperation reading about each of them at times (especially Al) really helped to make the book feel, well, real. The descriptions of North Wales and Snowdonia are very well depicted and used for full force to take the reader to the new environment helping to cement everything in the story to something authentic.
My only two wobbles were that Al and Kate were such conflicting characters at times it felt a little too differing and caused angst but it feels authentic in comparison to sweet tales with not enough content. I did also find Al difficult to connect to he’s just too all over the place and a little bit laid-back? However I really thought the arguments, the fights, the mystery surrounding George and Al’s dislike of one another and the interweaving secondary characters minor-storylines really intriguing, helping to add to this.
Overall I really enjoyed this book; it doesn’t focus too much on the sickly sweet soppy romances that I tend to dislike and it has a raw and gritty feel. The characters and locations feel authentic and the feelings feel real in terms of the stories. If Al had had more staying power I think I would have warmed to him more but overall a great tale with a great premise and brilliant writing. Spot on.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I have to be honest I haven’t read anything from this author before this book but I was suitably impressed with the level of detail brought to the characters. Brought to life by the words written, they are told with gusto and flair. They have a real grittiness about them and their flaws, the turbulence between the relationships and the exasperation reading about each of them at times (especially Al) really helped to make the book feel, well, real. The descriptions of North Wales and Snowdonia are very well depicted and used for full force to take the reader to the new environment helping to cement everything in the story to something authentic.
My only two wobbles were that Al and Kate were such conflicting characters at times it felt a little too differing and caused angst but it feels authentic in comparison to sweet tales with not enough content. I did also find Al difficult to connect to he’s just too all over the place and a little bit laid-back? However I really thought the arguments, the fights, the mystery surrounding George and Al’s dislike of one another and the interweaving secondary characters minor-storylines really intriguing, helping to add to this.
Overall I really enjoyed this book; it doesn’t focus too much on the sickly sweet soppy romances that I tend to dislike and it has a raw and gritty feel. The characters and locations feel authentic and the feelings feel real in terms of the stories. If Al had had more staying power I think I would have warmed to him more but overall a great tale with a great premise and brilliant writing. Spot on.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 28, 2015
Al has reviewed his deepest and darkest secret to his wife and now she wants to divorce him. He hasn't been alone for long and has a younger girlfriend. He doesn't want to live with her though and because he has no place to stay he returns to his childhood home. Half of it is his, but his brother George is living there with his wife and daughter and Al isn't welcome. Because George can't kick him out Al is now living at the farm. Kate is visiting, she wants to stay for a week to have a bit of a holiday. The farm isn't in a good state as there isn't any money for repairs. Kate has to prepare dinners for everyone because there isn't even any food for the humans in the house, just for the animals.
Kate and Al like each other, but Al has a girlfriend and Kate has recently lost her husband. She isn't grieving any longer though and Al and his girlfriend don't love each other very much, but there are certain complications. Slowly they're becoming friends, but is that actually a good idea? And what's Al's big secret?
Al is basically a good guy. He's trying to make people laugh, he's generous and he's a loving and caring person. Things just keep going wrong for him, he messes things up without ever wanting to hurt someone. Kate is very much in control, they are very different. Al loves his children and wants to see them as often as possible. Family is everything for him. I liked that a lot, he's such a wonderful, caring, but flawed man. He deserves some happiness, but will he get it when he meets Kate?
I've read Silver Rain in one sitting. I liked it so much that I couldn't put it down. I loved the main characters, the setting and the unusual family. Everything was exactly right. Jan Ruth has written such a fantastic story. It's sweet, it's captivating and it's romantic. I enjoyed reading this book very much and highly recommend it.
Kate and Al like each other, but Al has a girlfriend and Kate has recently lost her husband. She isn't grieving any longer though and Al and his girlfriend don't love each other very much, but there are certain complications. Slowly they're becoming friends, but is that actually a good idea? And what's Al's big secret?
Al is basically a good guy. He's trying to make people laugh, he's generous and he's a loving and caring person. Things just keep going wrong for him, he messes things up without ever wanting to hurt someone. Kate is very much in control, they are very different. Al loves his children and wants to see them as often as possible. Family is everything for him. I liked that a lot, he's such a wonderful, caring, but flawed man. He deserves some happiness, but will he get it when he meets Kate?
I've read Silver Rain in one sitting. I liked it so much that I couldn't put it down. I loved the main characters, the setting and the unusual family. Everything was exactly right. Jan Ruth has written such a fantastic story. It's sweet, it's captivating and it's romantic. I enjoyed reading this book very much and highly recommend it.
February 18, 2016
Marshmallow or nougat? A marshmallow that’s soft and sweet, easy to swallow but immediately forgotten? Or nougat that’s something to get your teeth into and you want to enjoy for a bit longer?
Silver Rain is nougat.
What a delightful story. It boasts a cast of solid, credible characters. Few of them win any medals for being perfect, but it’s precisely their lack of stereotype that makes them so believable and thoroughly likeable.
What is also rather charming is the fact that this romance’s boy and girl are not that. Kate and Al are fifty-ish been-theres. So they’ve been through jobs, marriages, children—grand-children, even—divorces, deaths and learnt a thing or two along the way, perhaps with a little cynicism. Neither is looking for love, especially. Al’s in a sort of relationship, mainly physical, while Kate, after two husbands is rather sceptical and well, who’s going to want a middle-aged, twice-married woman, anyway?
Not only charming, this story is a well-woven tapestry of unhappy pasts, secrets, untimely revelations, strength of character, lust, fun, humour and good old-fashioned romance.
It’s is a story you feel you want to jump into to get to know Kate and Al. It’s real, it’s earthy, it’s sensible. You want to help Kate with her problems. You want to shake the lovable, but slightly frustrating Al. You want to knock some sense into his brother. You want to offer help to Al’s kind-hearted, animal-loving sister-in-law. You just want to make them all your family and sort them out. And as far as the reader is concerned, there’s no predictability about Kate and Al nor any guarantees. Their outcome isn't revealed until the very end...literally...but what an enjoyable ride to find it out.
I absolutely loved it.
Silver Rain is nougat.
What a delightful story. It boasts a cast of solid, credible characters. Few of them win any medals for being perfect, but it’s precisely their lack of stereotype that makes them so believable and thoroughly likeable.
What is also rather charming is the fact that this romance’s boy and girl are not that. Kate and Al are fifty-ish been-theres. So they’ve been through jobs, marriages, children—grand-children, even—divorces, deaths and learnt a thing or two along the way, perhaps with a little cynicism. Neither is looking for love, especially. Al’s in a sort of relationship, mainly physical, while Kate, after two husbands is rather sceptical and well, who’s going to want a middle-aged, twice-married woman, anyway?
Not only charming, this story is a well-woven tapestry of unhappy pasts, secrets, untimely revelations, strength of character, lust, fun, humour and good old-fashioned romance.
It’s is a story you feel you want to jump into to get to know Kate and Al. It’s real, it’s earthy, it’s sensible. You want to help Kate with her problems. You want to shake the lovable, but slightly frustrating Al. You want to knock some sense into his brother. You want to offer help to Al’s kind-hearted, animal-loving sister-in-law. You just want to make them all your family and sort them out. And as far as the reader is concerned, there’s no predictability about Kate and Al nor any guarantees. Their outcome isn't revealed until the very end...literally...but what an enjoyable ride to find it out.
I absolutely loved it.
December 13, 2015
There was so much I enjoyed about this lovely book - but first and foremost, the two very real main characters, Al (Alasdair) and Kate. Both damaged by life experiences, these are two people who really capture your heart. My heart ached for Kate dealing with the aftermath of the death of her husband, while juggling her demanding mother, indifferent daughter and horrendous sister. Al is quite wonderful - immensely likeable despite your initial less than favourable impression, desperately trying to recapture his youth, badly damaged by so much history and the fractured relationship with his wife. The other characters are superbly drawn too - particularly Kate's wonderfully dreadful family, Fran as she falls apart, Al's brother George still nursing his grudges, and Al's girlfriend Jo.
This is much more than just a tender love story - the issues come thick and fast, and the story loops and twists in directions you really don't expect. The primary setting is exceptionally vivid - the wider canvas of Snowdonia, beautifully described, but also Chathill Farm itself in all its chaotic detail. And Jan's writing is quite perfect - engaging, flowing, easy to read, this was a book I really looked forward to picking up again whenever I set it aside.
When I spoke to her, Jan mentioned comparisons with Linda Gillard - strangely enough, that was the comparison I though of as I was reading, and this book excited me in the same way Linda's writing always has. If you haven't already discovered Jan Ruth's writing, do give it a try - I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely book, and will most certainly be trying more.
This is much more than just a tender love story - the issues come thick and fast, and the story loops and twists in directions you really don't expect. The primary setting is exceptionally vivid - the wider canvas of Snowdonia, beautifully described, but also Chathill Farm itself in all its chaotic detail. And Jan's writing is quite perfect - engaging, flowing, easy to read, this was a book I really looked forward to picking up again whenever I set it aside.
When I spoke to her, Jan mentioned comparisons with Linda Gillard - strangely enough, that was the comparison I though of as I was reading, and this book excited me in the same way Linda's writing always has. If you haven't already discovered Jan Ruth's writing, do give it a try - I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely book, and will most certainly be trying more.
February 24, 2014
Another great book from Jan Ruth!
While Silver Rain is set in Wales it could easily be set anywhere in the world. Silver Rain tells overlapping stories of middle life Kate and Al who find themselves in very different situations in their lives. Kate's second husband has recently died and she goes to visit her sister-in-law while trying to get her head around whether or not she actually loved her husband, what she is going to do about her hopeless sister and who is going to look after her ageing mother. Poor Al couldn't be more different, while he is still finalising his divorce this ladies man has found himself a young professional girlfriend and thinks life is all good. They cross paths in the ramshackle farm her sister-in-law calls home, which happens to be Al's family home 'Chathill Farm' but his (adopted) brother George is none to happy to see him. Will these too opposites become friends (or even more) or are they just too different (I'm not going to spoil it and tell you!)
Jan skilfully tackles many issues faced by middle-aged people everywhere such as dealing with aging parents, downsized jobs, failing marriages, and awkward dates in Silver Rain and she does this so realistically, even with a few well placed laughs as well as some heart in your throat moments.
This story does change between Al & Kate's stories but there is no overlapping boring bits like some in this style do and flows quiet easily. I wanted to sit and just read it but kept getting rudely interrupted, but it was quiet easy to just pick up where I left off.
While Silver Rain is set in Wales it could easily be set anywhere in the world. Silver Rain tells overlapping stories of middle life Kate and Al who find themselves in very different situations in their lives. Kate's second husband has recently died and she goes to visit her sister-in-law while trying to get her head around whether or not she actually loved her husband, what she is going to do about her hopeless sister and who is going to look after her ageing mother. Poor Al couldn't be more different, while he is still finalising his divorce this ladies man has found himself a young professional girlfriend and thinks life is all good. They cross paths in the ramshackle farm her sister-in-law calls home, which happens to be Al's family home 'Chathill Farm' but his (adopted) brother George is none to happy to see him. Will these too opposites become friends (or even more) or are they just too different (I'm not going to spoil it and tell you!)
Jan skilfully tackles many issues faced by middle-aged people everywhere such as dealing with aging parents, downsized jobs, failing marriages, and awkward dates in Silver Rain and she does this so realistically, even with a few well placed laughs as well as some heart in your throat moments.
This story does change between Al & Kate's stories but there is no overlapping boring bits like some in this style do and flows quiet easily. I wanted to sit and just read it but kept getting rudely interrupted, but it was quiet easy to just pick up where I left off.
July 17, 2015
This book was recently entered and was a finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title Silver Rain
Author: Jan Ruth
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 29
Readers’ Comments
‘I thought this was a charming story. I enjoyed the fact the characters were not too young; subsequently they were interesting and complicated. The setting is well described and important to the story. Very enjoyable.’ Female reader, aged46
‘This is predominantly a romance and a very good one too. The author’s writing style is lovely; it flows well and she works hard to bring the characters to life.’ Male reader, aged 48
‘There are a lot of twists to this story and the family life of the two characters was interesting. I liked the setting very much. Although the two central characters were well formed, I actually liked the brother, George, the most. I’d recommend this book to anybody looking for a sweet, well-told, often romantic, story.’ Female reader, aged 49
‘Al is fantastic. A bit of a scoundrel, sort of reminded me of Han Solo!’ Female reader, aged 37
Stats
Editing 8/10
Plot 9/20
Cover 9/10
Writing Style 10/10
Of the 29 readers:
28 would read another book by this author.
26 thought the cover was good or excellent.
18 thought the best part of the story was the characterisation.
11 thought the best part was the setting.
‘A compelling story populated with wonderfully well-rounded characters. A finalist and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
Title Silver Rain
Author: Jan Ruth
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 29
Readers’ Comments
‘I thought this was a charming story. I enjoyed the fact the characters were not too young; subsequently they were interesting and complicated. The setting is well described and important to the story. Very enjoyable.’ Female reader, aged46
‘This is predominantly a romance and a very good one too. The author’s writing style is lovely; it flows well and she works hard to bring the characters to life.’ Male reader, aged 48
‘There are a lot of twists to this story and the family life of the two characters was interesting. I liked the setting very much. Although the two central characters were well formed, I actually liked the brother, George, the most. I’d recommend this book to anybody looking for a sweet, well-told, often romantic, story.’ Female reader, aged 49
‘Al is fantastic. A bit of a scoundrel, sort of reminded me of Han Solo!’ Female reader, aged 37
Stats
Editing 8/10
Plot 9/20
Cover 9/10
Writing Style 10/10
Of the 29 readers:
28 would read another book by this author.
26 thought the cover was good or excellent.
18 thought the best part of the story was the characterisation.
11 thought the best part was the setting.
‘A compelling story populated with wonderfully well-rounded characters. A finalist and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
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July 18, 2014Jan Ruth’s novels are all set in one of my most favourite parts of the world, so before we get onto plot and characterisation we’re already onto a winner for me.
Protagonists, Kate and Al are poles apart as people and yet similar in many ways. Both approaching middle age, with the baggage and trauma that comes with extended families. Sensible, mature Kate is the antithesis of reckless, immature Al and yet … and yet …
It’s a clichéd love story in many ways … but without any of the clichés. Instead there are lots of secrets, intrigues, twists and turns along the way – guided by what feels a very competent author’s hand. It’s impossible not to bond with both of the lead characters, and like them as much for their flaws and failings as for their strengths. Somehow the fact we see both sides of their personalities makes them all so much more believable. Even the side characters – Fran, Jo, George and Maisie in particular – all leap from the page fully-formed and crystal clear.
The author uses her knowledge and love of Snowdonia and North Wales to full effect, not relying on postcard views to strengthen the scene, but showing us the area is all of its guises, from swollen rivers to windswept beaches to cloud-topped mountain landscapes.
Contemporary women’s fiction is not usually top of my reading pile but I loved this book. It was the first book I’d read by this author, but having sped through the novel in three sittings, I can’t wait to try another!
Protagonists, Kate and Al are poles apart as people and yet similar in many ways. Both approaching middle age, with the baggage and trauma that comes with extended families. Sensible, mature Kate is the antithesis of reckless, immature Al and yet … and yet …
It’s a clichéd love story in many ways … but without any of the clichés. Instead there are lots of secrets, intrigues, twists and turns along the way – guided by what feels a very competent author’s hand. It’s impossible not to bond with both of the lead characters, and like them as much for their flaws and failings as for their strengths. Somehow the fact we see both sides of their personalities makes them all so much more believable. Even the side characters – Fran, Jo, George and Maisie in particular – all leap from the page fully-formed and crystal clear.
The author uses her knowledge and love of Snowdonia and North Wales to full effect, not relying on postcard views to strengthen the scene, but showing us the area is all of its guises, from swollen rivers to windswept beaches to cloud-topped mountain landscapes.
Contemporary women’s fiction is not usually top of my reading pile but I loved this book. It was the first book I’d read by this author, but having sped through the novel in three sittings, I can’t wait to try another!
April 8, 2014
The storyline for this novel centres on the family home of Al and his brother George. George, his wife and daughter live on the family farm which has come into disrepair. George's wife, Fran cares more for her ever growing fur family than she does her marriage and home.
Al comes to stay at the farm in an attempt to get his brother George to sell the farm and give him his inheritance. As with many families there is tension between the brothers but it runs much deeper than the sale of the farm.
Kate, widow of Fran's brother, Greg comes to stay at the same time. She is looking to move forward with her life and comes to the farm for respite.
Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside, this novel tells the story of these 4 central characters. There are many tales told around that farmhouse kitchen table. There are many secrets yet to be discovered. Just when I thought all the secrets had been revealed another "I didn't see that coming" comes along. At one point when I thought I knew a secret about one of the characters, I felt a little let down, until the real truth was finally revealed.
I am a big fan of Jan Ruth's novels. Set in wonderful countryside settings and with characters and storylines that are totally believable. I have to remind myself this is just a novel and not real-life.
review copy
Al comes to stay at the farm in an attempt to get his brother George to sell the farm and give him his inheritance. As with many families there is tension between the brothers but it runs much deeper than the sale of the farm.
Kate, widow of Fran's brother, Greg comes to stay at the same time. She is looking to move forward with her life and comes to the farm for respite.
Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside, this novel tells the story of these 4 central characters. There are many tales told around that farmhouse kitchen table. There are many secrets yet to be discovered. Just when I thought all the secrets had been revealed another "I didn't see that coming" comes along. At one point when I thought I knew a secret about one of the characters, I felt a little let down, until the real truth was finally revealed.
I am a big fan of Jan Ruth's novels. Set in wonderful countryside settings and with characters and storylines that are totally believable. I have to remind myself this is just a novel and not real-life.
review copy
January 29, 2014
Another great read by Jan Ruth.
I have devoured all of her other books so deliberatly took my time before starting this one, the time between them coming out seems so long!
That didn't last long though.
I have fallen a little in love with all of Jan's heroes so far, particularly James - but that's another story! (Midnight Sky)
Al was no different, a little older (more experienced), rugged with a twinkle in his eye. That's how I saw him - as usual with her characters - he jumped up off the page.
I love how well drawn Ms Ruth's characters always are, their personalities shine through through the pages. Everyone different.
The book was unputdownable, the pages turned quickly, yet the story was slow to unfold (not too slow) but rightly the events unfolded to (what we hope from early on) will be the conclusion. They just seem so well matched.
It seems to be Jan Ruth's gift, to give us real life, fresh air, and a bit of muck and wellies, in the beauty of wet North Wales scenery, real characters, entirely convincing people you could easily bump into (I live in Snowdonia too) and then tell their story, all the ups and some real downs, with plenty of emotion and that real life chemistry thing, not really soppy romance, just real life, how it is, love.
So when's the next one out? :)
I have devoured all of her other books so deliberatly took my time before starting this one, the time between them coming out seems so long!
That didn't last long though.
I have fallen a little in love with all of Jan's heroes so far, particularly James - but that's another story! (Midnight Sky)
Al was no different, a little older (more experienced), rugged with a twinkle in his eye. That's how I saw him - as usual with her characters - he jumped up off the page.
I love how well drawn Ms Ruth's characters always are, their personalities shine through through the pages. Everyone different.
The book was unputdownable, the pages turned quickly, yet the story was slow to unfold (not too slow) but rightly the events unfolded to (what we hope from early on) will be the conclusion. They just seem so well matched.
It seems to be Jan Ruth's gift, to give us real life, fresh air, and a bit of muck and wellies, in the beauty of wet North Wales scenery, real characters, entirely convincing people you could easily bump into (I live in Snowdonia too) and then tell their story, all the ups and some real downs, with plenty of emotion and that real life chemistry thing, not really soppy romance, just real life, how it is, love.
So when's the next one out? :)
September 18, 2015
This is an absolutely stunning read. And that is a level of praise I reserve for only the very best books. First of all you have the main characters, Al and Kate, both of whom positively jump off the page and grab you by the hand, demanding you come along with them on their respective journeys. The writing is beautiful and evocative, but never dull; the plot is tight and paced just right; the dialogue is so believable you almost forget you are reading fiction and not merely listening to conversations. I loved Al, he is a flawed character - flawed in all the right ways, the interesting ways - and from the outset I was rooting for him. Kate is so identifiable, complex and conflicted - the perfect foil for Al.
The story - gripping and satisfying all the way - plays out against the backdrop of a beautiful but unforgiving landscape, one that is always present but never takes over from the characters. What is so outstanding about Jan Ruth’s writing, however, is the depth of emotion contained within these pages. Every single character, even walk-on parts, seemed real to me. Every twist and turn of events, while surprising, felt natural and right for the story. Highly recommended - 5 stars. (If I could give it 6 stars I would!)
The story - gripping and satisfying all the way - plays out against the backdrop of a beautiful but unforgiving landscape, one that is always present but never takes over from the characters. What is so outstanding about Jan Ruth’s writing, however, is the depth of emotion contained within these pages. Every single character, even walk-on parts, seemed real to me. Every twist and turn of events, while surprising, felt natural and right for the story. Highly recommended - 5 stars. (If I could give it 6 stars I would!)
August 9, 2014
A rewarding family saga blending together memorable, realistic, flawed characters in a vivid setting with a real sense of place. This is an engaging, honest novel for mature readers (the two key characters are 50ish) about normal people with baggage, trying to rebuild their lives and find new relationships after earlier ones have failed.
Labelling alternative chapters with the name of one or other of the key characters, and shifting viewpoint accordingly, added tension and suspense to the "will-they, won't they" plot which was full of twists and turns, most of which I didn't see coming. I ended up reading way past my bedtime, till about 2am, because I was on such tenterhooks to see how it turned out.
I must admit that I didn't warm to Al, though I very much liked Kate, and I enjoyed the development of the colourful subsidiary characters too. I also liked the odd moment of humour, such as Kate's elderly mother ordering a catheter in a restaurant when she meant a cafetiere.
This well-written novel is highly recommended for readers who enjoy intelligent, sensitive family sagas, and I look forward to reading other books by Jan Ruth in due course.
Labelling alternative chapters with the name of one or other of the key characters, and shifting viewpoint accordingly, added tension and suspense to the "will-they, won't they" plot which was full of twists and turns, most of which I didn't see coming. I ended up reading way past my bedtime, till about 2am, because I was on such tenterhooks to see how it turned out.
I must admit that I didn't warm to Al, though I very much liked Kate, and I enjoyed the development of the colourful subsidiary characters too. I also liked the odd moment of humour, such as Kate's elderly mother ordering a catheter in a restaurant when she meant a cafetiere.
This well-written novel is highly recommended for readers who enjoy intelligent, sensitive family sagas, and I look forward to reading other books by Jan Ruth in due course.
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