Rain Dance

Tulsa Thunderbirds #5

by Catherine Gayle

***Trigger contains graphic scenes depicting domestic and sexual violence.***

USA Today bestselling author Catherine Gayle presents another novel in the sexy Tulsa Thunderbirds hockey romance series, a spin-off from the Portland Storm series.

He’s in a drought. No rain. No goals. No women.
She has what it takes to quench his thirst.

Ethan Higgins, a defenseman for the Tulsa Thunderbirds, is in a rut. He hasn’t scored a goal in ages, and he hasn’t had a woman in his bed for even longer. The only thing in his favor is that he gets to spend time with his son when the T-Birds play at home on the weekends. Determined to be nothing like his abusive father, Ethan sets out to show his son how a real man behaves, and Natalie Turner gives him the perfect opportunity to do so.

Natalie has nowhere to turn when her boyfriend gets physical with her, this time in public—at least not until Ethan steps in to offer her a safe place to stay. Wary of trusting anyone, especially another hockey player, and even more so one as rough and tough as Ethan, Natalie attempts to resist the lure she feels toward the protective man. When Ethan’s son does a Rain Dance, the skies open up. But will soaking their hardened and cracked hearts be enough to end the drought?

The Tulsa Thunderbirds series
1) Bury the Hatchet
2) Smoke Signals
3) Ghost Dance
4) Rites of Passage
5) Rain Dance - coming soon
6) Dream Catcher - coming soon

sexy romance, hockey, hockey romance, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, survivor, ptsd, athlete hero, rich hero, single father, single dad

Genres: Sports Romance, Sports, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Hockey Romance, Hockey

290 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 16, 2017

About the author

***Please note that series numbering of the Portland Storm series is different at Goodreads than it is on Catherine's website or at any retailer. Goodreads policy will not allow the series numbering to match anything else. If this confuses you, please complain to Goodreads, as it is not Catherine's fault.***

Catherine Gayle is a USA Today bestselling author of more than forty contemporary hockey romance and Regency-set historical romance novels and novellas. Soon, she'll be launching her debut contemporary small-town romance series. She's sold more than three-quarters of a million books. She’s a transplanted Texan living in North Carolina with two extremely spoiled felines. In her spare time, she watches way too much hockey and reality TV, plans fun things to do for the Nephew Monster’s next visit, and performs experiments in the kitchen which are rarely toxic.

Catherine doesn't check messages on Goodreads very often. Please contact her through her website for a timely response.

Reviews

[Dali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rain Dance
Catherine Gayle
Absolutely gritty, raw and heartbreaking, but also sweet and uplifting. A wonderful addition to the Tulsa Thunderbirds series.

I’ve been on Catherine’s review team for a while now. I usually get the reviewer’s copy without knowing much what the book’s about other than it’ll be hockey related and that, even though she’s written over twenty hockey between this series and the Portland Storm, each new book will be profound and unique, and Rain Dance delivered with its balance between sweetness, grit and romance. Even though this book starts out with a piercing look at domestic violence, but Catherine expertly takes us on a hopeful journey that shows the healing power of love and joy.

I’ll admit that the intense beginning was painful and a bit difficult to read as we witness the dark and appalling reality Natalie barely survived at the vicious hands of her abusive NHL player boyfriend. Afraid of yet another burly hockey player, she calls for help when it’s almost too late. Thankfully Ethan stepped in and her road to recovery, though slow and challenging, is wonderful to read.

Ethan Higgins is an incredible character. Now defenseman for the Tulsa Thunderbirds, growing up he suffered at the hands of his own abusive father. He got out thanks to hockey and vowed to never become his father. And he certainly succeeded. Although his marriage to his childhood sweetheart didn’t work out, he’s happily divorced with a sweet as pie little boy who adores him with good reason because Ethan is patient and kind, protective and thoughtful and has shown him how a real man behaves.

But make no mistake about it, he’s also equally sexy, and even though getting close to a man is probably the last thing Natalie should do, what develops between them is deep and real. For Natalie, this is the first time she’s known the love and care of a good man. Ethan makes her feel truly safe and wanted.

All the characters from past books in the series make an appearance, but some of the wives and girlfriends are key in helping Natalie move forward. The camaraderie and friendship between the team members and their significant others is one of the reasons I love this series, giving the reader a chance to see how they grow with each story.

This is a great read. I applaud Catherine Gayle for once again exploring a serious topic while weaving in trust, tenderness and romance in a way that made the story feel true.

Rain Dance is book #5 in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series by Catherine Gayle. It is a full length hockey romance. Contains graphic scenes depicting domestic and sexual abuse. Catherine Gayle delivers a heartbreaking and absorbing story about hope, courage and love. Told from both points of view with a happy ending.

4.5 stars

Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2xzx8qB

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts taken are from that copy. *

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[Kiki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't write a review.
****triggers****
On page extreme sexual and physical abuse.

I couldn't decide if hero was alpha or beta. He's extremely "in charge" calm alpha for every situation but I think is a beta for the heroine. I know that doesn't float everyone's boat, but he saw this heroine through abuse and had to wait on her for her to survive. Alphaness is not something she needed.

Safety:
Hero celibate for a while.
Heroine not celibate after meeting hero for obvious reasons.
Hero was devoted to heroine.
It was the most believable Insta-love situation I have read about.
There was no lust to begin with. It was pure love.
No real pushing.
Comeuppance for bad guys (not enough compared to what they deserved, but apparently castration is illegal)!
**** I wanted me some more Dima and Harper time. These two share such an intense bond. He's like a giant live teddy bear for her.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to start this review by saying to heed the trigger warnings if it is an issue for you, because like with other difficult situations in this Tulsa Thunderbirds series, Catherine Gayle did not sugarcoat this story. Some of the beginning is hard to take because it does feel so real, raw, desperate, and volatile. But with that being said, this is ultimately a positive story of survival and hope.

Natalie Turner has been conditioned to believe that her life will continue to exist as it has for years...isolated and at the mercy of her boyfriend Hayes Lennon who is on the Tulsa Thunderbirds. But one night, an unexpected knight appears and intervenes on her behalf. An unlikely support is initiated that night and soon she would need to ask for help.

Ethan Higgens is also a defenseman on the Thunderbirds. He has always been a bit quiet and reserved. He is a divorced dad who lives for hockey and his son. He is also a survivor of his own traumatic childhood, and he cannot handle seeing a woman being harmed.

She has a long road to recovery both physically and emotionally. She has trust issues, is scared, broken, and feels alone. He becomes Natalie's protector and support. He is good, kind , patient, caring and understanding. And also brings the Thunderbird family along with him. He begins to make her feel safe. But they both are trying to figure out what is happening between them. Is it temporary? Real Feelings or just obligation? An after effect of the traumatic situation? What happens if she does not need him anymore?

This is Natalie's journey to finding strength, support, safety, real affection, healing, and hope. Ethan is an absolutely swoonworthy hero. They way he treats his son, his ex, and Natalie is just so sweet, tolerant, and caring. He is big, brawny, and alpha, but also tender, loving, and understanding. This is a case of two people who found each other in the worst of situation and were not looking for love. She really had no hope and he felt powerless to make it better. And he had his own demons. But somehow they began to breathe light into each other's dark places. But true healing takes time and patience, and they need to proceed with caution for both of their sakes. They are both scared of making mistakes and causing pain. And they both struggle internally with their own issues, while facing external distress and drama as well.

As I stated before this one is pretty graphic at the beginning and really paints the picture of pain, desperation, and hopelessness. It made me wince, cringe, get angry, and I truly hurt for Natalie. Ethan made me believe that good men are out there and that people can overcome anything. This is a heartfelt story of trust, vulnerability, intimacy, open hearts, hope, healing, fighting demons, and moving forward.

It brings back all of the characters from this series that we have seen struggle with their own issues. They are a great support system and provide more understanding and care to a woman who was kept isolated. They both have challenges to face, but they are easier with a group like this to stand by them.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars


**Reviewer’s note: This book deals with domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and mental abuse. There are scenes that I think for most people will be hard to read (they were for me) so I can only imagine how hard they were to write and I’m not writing this to scare anyone off from this book, but to say if you have triggers you might want to be careful with this one. That being said, this was a well told story and it touches on many issues people have when they have been abused in any nature. It also gives hope that not everyone who has been abused becomes an abuser, that if you have been abused or are being abused there are people who will help, and most of all that no matter what you think there are people who will love you. If you need help, please call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline 1−800−799−7233, there is hope and help!

Catherine Gayle never fails to elicit deep emotions from me with her books and to say I’m a bit wrung out after reading Rain Dance is putting it mildly. For years I’ve been reading this author and she has touched on so many subjects and in this book she tackles domestic, mental, and sexual abuse, yet she also manages to show that even in the darkest times all it takes is one person to become a guiding light. This was a difficult book to read in that we see these types of stories day in and day out sometimes within our own families, and some people might question why an author would write a book like this and to them I say, if this book helps just one person to get out, to get help, and to move on and heal then it was absolutely worth her writing it.

Ethan “Huggy Bear” Higgins is a tough defenseman for the Tulsa Thunderbirds, a doting father he co-parents with his ex-wife, and good friend and that becomes more than apparent when he steps in to help a woman being beaten by one of his teammates. All too familiar with being beaten by this father as a child and watching his mother being beaten, Ethan vows to help Natalie Turner, no matter the consequences.

In earlier books in this series I always loved Ethan and his little boy Carter and after this book I have mad respect for Ethan and his parenting skills. Ethan vowed as a young man that he would not be his father and he would never raise a hand towards a woman or a child and he’s instilled that in his young son. Having to explain the scene they came upon and left after Natalie pleaded with him was one of the hardest things he’s done in his life, but when Natalie asks for help Ethan jumps in with both feet to see her through her trauma. I was impressed that Ethan was able to put his issues aside to help Natalie and the way he rallied his teammates and their significant others to help. Nothing was more heartwarming that Carter welcoming Natalie into their home to recover and recuperate and offering the use of his dog, Snoopy for cuddles. This couple had a long road and at times is was arduous in that while Natalie wanted to trust Ethan, she worried if she was going down the same path again which was completely understandable and while Ethan never, ever pushed Natalie his own insecurities also came into play leaving him overly cautious and questioning every little thing.

There are going to be people who say Natalie’s character wasn’t developed enough, that we really didn’t know much about her and to those people I say, that’s the point. Women who are in abusive relationships and in this case in one since she was in high school have no identity because their abusers don’t allow it; they cut them off from their family and friends. They don’t allow them to have jobs other than to “care” for them and they don’t allow them to go out socially without them. Thus, Natalie really had nothing to call her own and had to take a chance and rely on a man she really didn’t know other than the fact that he reached out to help her.

Ethan and Natalie did find their way to one another and as Ethan promised it was on her terms and timeline. One thing everyone must remember is that people deal with abuse in different ways and there is no right way only the way that works for them. I was happy that there was some closure for Ethan’s situation with his parents; something that I believe helped him heal a bit more.

While this book did contain chapters that were hard to read, it was tactfully written and despite the heavy subject matter Ms. Gayle still managed to give readers respectable love story and show that no matter how dark someone’s life can be, there is hope, healing, and light, all it takes is someone to reach out and offer help.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rain Dance (Tulsa Thunderbirds) Catherine Gayle  
She pushes hot buttons, tortures your heart and inspires devotion, Catherine Gayle is good at getting noticed.  Just when it seems that your emotions cannot stand another blow, Rain Dance entrances your soul.  Ethan is no hero, but he is a good man and an ever evolving parent.  Natalie wants to be happy.  She longs to be loved, yet her choices keep holding her back.  Ethan and Natalie will leave you emotionally spent, but yearning for more.  The baggage is heavy but the reward is worth the load. (4.5 stars)

[Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series but can easily be read as a stand alone. All of the books so far have had very heartfelt issues and awareness messages. This one is a heartbreaker for sure. Please read the trigger warnings before jumping into this one.

Ethan is just trying to play his best hockey and not really thinking about anything other than that and the time he gets to spend with his son. He literally has Natalie thrown his way by her abusive boyfriend and his teammate. What follows in an opportunity to right some wrongs.

Ethan and Natalie start out as friends. As she heals and Ethan's protective nature comes in to play, they start to look at the "what if" of being more. In order for that to happen, both of them need to lay all their cards on the table. Natalie isn't the only one with an abusive past.

The story brings domestic abuse to the forefront. It doesn't romanticize the issue but it does try to bring hope. Their can be safety and their can be healing. Together and with friend and family support, Ethan and Natalie are ready for their HEA.

Loved seeing all the team again and their significant others. Really enjoyed all the time with Ethan's son. Great addition to the series!

*Advanced copy provided for an honest review.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first, the trigger warnings in the blurb should definitely be heeded. If you’ve read this author before, you know Miss Gayle doesn’t’ shy away from intense moments or uncomfortable but important topics in her books, and that trend continues here in her vivid portrayal of the abuse the heroine endures at the hands of her ex who is also the hero’s teammate. Rain Dance is the fifth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series. Since the heroes all play on the same professional hockey team, there are appearances by previous couples, but it isn’t in such a way that impedes a reader who’s jumping in midway through the series and each book reads fine as a standalone. Although I enjoy both of Miss Gayle’s hockey series, I have to admit I gravitate more toward The Thunderbirds because they tend to boast grittier romances and storylines. Rain Dance delivered that with the domestic abuse survivor plot, but the romance was understandably toned down.

Readers of the Tulsa Thunderbirds series met Ethan, known to his teammates as Huggy Bear, as well as his son Carter in previous books. However, I doubt anyone anticipated his backstory. I certainly didn’t. Between his past and Natalie’s current crisis, Rain Dance is more of a hurt/comfort romance, but it delivered a good message and ended with a positive, sweet note. There is a little bit of insta-love playing out in Rain Dance. Although it made sense given the intense, emotionally-straining situation Natalie and Ethan were in, I missed the chemistry building between them. I liked the couple individually and together and thought their story was poignant, but I never grew particularly invested in them.

Fans of this author can attest that she knows her hockey and is a very talented writer. I tend to hold her as the go-to standard for how to weave on-ice action and team dynamics into a romance. In Rain Dance those talents were even more apparent, particularly in the descriptive hospital and recovery scenes that highlighted Natalie’s strength as she healed and overcame her trauma. Although I wasn’t quite as drawn to this couple as I have been to others, this author certainly doesn’t rely on a formulaic approach to her series. She delivers something new with each book and couple, and that’s what keeps me coming back for more.

*PA provided eARC. The publisher and author had no influence over this review*

[NotSarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trigger warning: This book contains graphic and disturbing depictions of physical, domestic, and sexual abuse and assault.

I don't necessarily shy away from books that follow the formula of heroine escapes an abusive relationship/past and finds love in a healthy relationship with the hero, but this one didn't sit well with me. Gayle's previous work in Breakaway, the first book in her Portland Storm series, did just this beautifully. Here, the story didn't develop the heroine's character as much and follow her journey to rebuilding herself and her relationships; I found this to be more of a "insta-healed because she met the hero" story without much more character development beyond that. If a story starts with the heroine going through extremely disturbing abuse, I hope and want to see that heroine's journey to rebuild herself (other than through just knowing the hero), otherwise it seems like all that abuse is for naught and isn't warranted given the story. I am a big fan of Gayle's hockey series, but this one just didn't sit well with me.

ARC provided courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Trigger Warning**.  Yes.  There is a trigger warning in the synopsis, but I think that it bears repeating in this review.  The opening chapters are very explicit and not an easy read.  The domestic violence and sexual abuse are dealt with in painful detail.  Please be aware of this if you choose to read this book.

And what a book!  Honestly, this is one of the most powerful and emotive stories I have read from this author for a while.  Yes, of course, the course of recovery is probably smoothed over for the purposes of fiction, but I really don't think that detracts from the strength of the story, the depth of the characters or the message of hope which shines strongly from the narrative.  No part of the story was sacrificed for the message, and that made for a great read.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Camille · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good but with something missing

I love Catherine Gayle. I love how her books are more than just an erotic romance and there's actually a plot. I liked how Rain Dance is different than any other book that she's written, but at the same time I feel like something was missing. Maybe the conclusion happened too briefly without enough closure for me, I'm not sure.

Overall I think it was a great book, and it's falling somewhere between 3-4 stars, but it's just lacking something for me. Totally worth reading, though!

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Rain Dance is the fifth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds Series, a racier “spin-off” from Ms. Gayle’s Portland Storm Hockey Series. This is Ethan “(Huggy) Bear” Higgin’s story. Bear and his seven-year-old son Ethan had already been introduced in a previous book. It is important to note the “trigger warning” - the first part of the book has very graphic scenes depicting domestic violence and sexual abuse. If this is a problem, please do not read this book.
Divorced and raising his seven-year old son Carter during the weekends he’s in Oklahoma, Bear is quite the loner with only his son’s rescued pup Snoopy for company. As a child, Bear and his mother were victims of domestic violence until he managed to grow larger and stronger than his father and left the household. Bear vowed to be the best possible father to Carter and try to mould him into a good man. This was brought to the test when one evening, while they were walking back to their car after a T-birds game, Ethan and Carter came upon one of Ethan’s fellow team mates, physically abusing his girlfriend Natalie Turner in the deserted parking lot. Despite intervening, Natalie was too scared and still went home with her abusive boyfriend.
This is by far the most emotional and dramatic book so far. While many might think that the scenes depicting sexual violence are quite intense, I must commend Ms. Gayle for daring to venture in such as delicate subject. While Breakaway, the first Storm book also dealt with rape, this book is far more intense. There is no sugar-coating such a subject. The story is very emotional and one can almost feel the helplessness and the despair Natalie experienced in the first section of the book. It is common knowledge that victims of domestic violence and abuse often are too afraid to better their situation. “Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t” aptly describes the victims’ first response. Ms. Gayle created a credible scenario where two strong people find it in their selves to step out of the vicious circle of abuse, helping others on the way. This couldn’t have been done without the support system created by the other T-birds, their significant others as well as Carter and Snoopy.
Thanks to Ms. Gayle for this wonderful book! It was impossible not to love Ethan and Rain Dance easily became my favourite one. It is important to note that this book was essential for the T-birds to consolidate in a family. For once, I was thankful for Mrs. Jernigan’s intervention!

[llamallamacallurmama · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Most of my reviews contain detailed CW/TW sections, which may include spoilers. I have tried to mark them appropriately, but please use caution.**

Ebook

4/5

Summary: After witnessing IPV/DV against the girlfriend of one of his teammates, Ethan steps in. She refuses his help, before eventually reaching back out. As he helps her heal, they become closer (along with other members of his team/their families, his son and dog).

Stats: CR/Sports (hockey), M/F, open door, part of a series - stands alone well enough (but there’s some background plot/lots of previously introduced characters).

Notes: I like Catherine Gayle’s stories and writing. She balances the sport and the romance and usually does a good job exploring and developing the trauma/history/side plots she chooses to include. This book is a good example of that for the long term experience of DV/IPV/DA and immediate survivorship (IMO), but is a brutal read at the start and there’s some places where it has a little clunkiness. It is lighter on the hockey. It’s nice to see amicable co-parents in romance, which is unusual. I also really love seeing previous couples maturing in their relationships. The key relationship feels a little hurried, and insta-love, but I still appreciated the story. My big issue is that I'm a little uncomfortable with the stance the MMC takes on the team's name/appropriation, or maybe just the way he approaches it.

OTT and Spoilery Content Warnings (CW) and Trigger Warnings (TW):
mc has a child, divorce (amicable), coparenting (amicable), DV/IPV/DA (not between mcs, on page, violent, graphic and repeated), rape/SA (of the FMC, on page, violent, graphic and extended, by multiple people), forced public/group sex (not between mcs), bondage/beating (not consensual or kink), alcohol, drug use by side characters, strangulation, assault, violence, fistfight, MMC interrupts DV and doesn't report it immediately, DV/DA between parents of mc, child abuse (on MMC), abandonment by friends/parents, accusations of infidelity (not between mcs), firearms, medical scenes, SI, "crazy/lunatic" talk (FMC about FMC), drought, brief description of animal abuse (not by an mc), mention of death in flood, mention of rape/sexual abuse of side characters, MMC arrested briefly

[Karen Boozer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly awesome read! This book really encompasses the writing talent of Catherine Gayle. She took a very emotional, tragic event and handled with kid gloves going through all the emotions as well as the aftermath with everyone associated. This book started out with Ethan and his Carter overhearing an argument between Natalie and her long time boyfriend and stepped in to protect her. Come to find out Natalie has been abused in all sorts of ways during the time she was with him and the consequences of Ethan trying to save her resulted in horrific consequences that left her fighting for her life.

Ethan was who Natalie felt safe with...the one she trusted...the one that gave her a reason to live and go on. They build a relationship from the beginning along with Carter. There were many situations wherein they relied upon each other to get through the rough times, not just with Natalie but with Ethan when his abusive father came back into the picture. In the end, all 3 ended up saving Ethan's mom from a lifetime of abuse as well. During all of this, Carter's mom Kinsey was supportive of Ethan and his relationship with Carter while trusting him to be a good example for their son. I can't wait to see a story for Kinsey, hopefully Catherine will make one.

This was truly an awesome read and I was an Ethan fan from the beginning because of his attitude and how he treated his son. I was a champion for Natalie because she went through so much and came out on the other side stronger. This book may have some triggers for some based upon domestic abuse and sexual abuse but if you can get through those parts you will have a truly awesome story to finish.

I received an ARC copy of this book in order to provide an honest review which I believe I have done. I try not to put spoilers but give you enough so you will want to read this book...take a chance...you will not regret it!

[Dar]

This is a hard book to rate, so I’m just not going to do it. I will review it though, because there was a lot in the story. Firstly and most importantly, take that trigger warning seriously. I know there are triggers on a lot of things, but in this story, it is graphic, it is raw, and I had to skip it, and I don’t have a trigger. It was just too much, and I get why it was there for the story, but it took me away from the story rather than keep me in it. And that is part of the problem I had with the story, it gave us this brutal tear down and then we didn’t see the healing and building back up. We got the physical, but the emotional is touched on, but as a reader, I wasn’t healed with the character on her emotions. Which is weird, as the previous book in the series gave us all sorts of insight into feelings and emotions and the journey to healthiness for them, this one left it off the pages. What was on the page was weak at best, and revolved around the characters healing each other. I loved our heroine, she saw her flaws and wanted to heal in her own way, and did that. Our hero also has issues and it is never hinted how he is healing, other than “I’m not going to be that way”, and then his go-to mechanism when triggered is violence. I loved this hero, how sweet he was, his self-awareness, how kind and gentle and understanding he is, but he also has some deep seeded issues that are just left on the shelf.

That is the disconnect in the story for me, the abuse was not connected to healing. If the detailed description had of been left off the page, then this would have easily been a 4 or 5 star read. With it on the page, and the conclusion left off, it feels sensationalized for shock value, not part of a story development. I wouldn’t say don’t read this book, I think it deals with important, valid, and real issues in a stark manner. For me, it just didn’t meet the mark, and I so wanted it to get there for these two characters that I liked so much

[Marybeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! This was a very emotional and difficult book to read because it deals with domestic violence and sexual assault. Having said that, it was masterfully written and the story was told very tastefully by Catherine Gayle as she always does with taboo subjects.
I fell in love with Ethan from the get-go. The fact that he cared enough to get involved and do something about his teammate hurting Natalie was very heroic and a wonderful lesson to teach his son Carter. He is such a good man! Being an abuse survivor himself, from his monster of a father (if I ever wanted to run someone over with my car-it's this jerk) , caused Ethan to stop the abuse he saw from happening even though it was someone he didn't really know.
Ethan falls so hard for Natalie but he will not push her. Everybody will happen at her pace. It's beautiful really, how much he cares for her and wants to help her to recover both physically and emotionally. He opens up his home, heart and life to her which includes his adorable son Carter and their dog Snoopy and all of his friends/teammates and their women. What an amazing environment for her to heal.
Natalie is so strong to have endured the physical and emotional abuse from her ex for so long. (Someone else and his friends that I would like to run over with my car). She went through so much and it was just awful and heartbreaking. The emotional trauma is so difficult for her to get through but therapy helps her so much. She really wants to allow herself to love Ethan. She trusts him, cares about him deeply and is very attracted to him, but love? How does she do that again after everything? Can she love again?
This is an emotional 5 star read and well worth the tissues. Amazing once again Ms.Gayle!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine Gayle is one of my go-to, one-click authors. You know you will always get a solid, emotional book that will stay with you after you're done reading. This is especially true of her Tulsa Thunderbirds series where her characters deal with some of the darker aspects of life. Rain Dance delivered all I expect from her, and then some.

Gritty, emotional, raw. Love, trust, healing. Catherine gave everything she has, and walks away a winner.

Ethan Higgins has intrigued me in the past. I knew we would get something wonderful with his story. A loving father, and general good-guy he's exactly who Natalie needs. There's so much to love about him, and I'm glad he got his HEA.

Natalie Turner needed a savior in her most desperate of times. Fortunately, she turned to Ethan when she needed him the most. It was terribly difficult to read the first few chapters. Natalie suffers through some unimaginable situations, but she survives. Along the way she learns to trust Ethan and to engage with him in a healthy relationship.

Of course there are obstacles and challenges along the way. There's laughter and tears. We get to see some of our old favorites in cameo roles, which is always a treat. In the end, it's beautiful.

Please take the trigger warnings in this book seriously. Catherine lays it all out there, and it's not pretty, but it's necessary to fully understand the situation that Natalie and Ethan are facing. There's got to be a special place in h#ll for people like Hayes, Alex and Jason.

Catherine, thank you for giving us the opportunity to read this book. You're a master at your craft and I look forward to reading what's next! I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, however I will also purchase a copy for my own library.

[Larissa Cardozo · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, a *trigger warning* - this book contains a pretty graphic sexual assault/domestic violence scene. That being said, it is tastefully handled.
The entire book is tastefully handled. I love this book because even though it addresses a supremely difficult topic, it does so by highlighting the difficulties a person in that situation faces, the strength of the survivors, and the message that it IS possible to break free, no matter how impossible it may seem.
On top of that, the emotions in this book are so incredibly real. When reading Natalie's point of view, I could feel her anxiety, her indecisiveness, and her longing to be what she considered normal. When she was with Ethan, I didn't just read about how safe she felt - I felt safe, too. And Ethan...well, Ethan is pretty much sexiness personified given that he's a phenomenal single dad and a hockey star, but we are given the opportunity to see past the surface to the person who wants to do the right thing for so many people and doesn't always get it right on the first try, yet never gives up.
Even if you are in a domestic or sexual violence situation, or are a survivor, this book provides so much hope that there is life beyond the demons you face. Outside of the scenes in the beginning of the book, everything else is vague and doesn't refer to the incidents in detail - so if you think you can handle reading the book without those scenes, I think it's worth it. This world needs to prove to women that they do NOT deserve what happens to them, and that it is NOT their fault, and this book - Catherine Gayle - has done a tremendous job of addressing that here.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rain Dance is such a graphic, raw, emotional roller coaster, which somehow turns into a love story. Ethan and Natalie’s story is not a fairy tale; it’s not something one would wish on someone.

Natalie’s story is so hard to read; at times it made me want to get sick. She has been abuse mentally and physically for so long; she finds it hard to accept any help. The players’ wives and girlfriends circle the wagons and make Natalie feel safe and secure. Learning to trust herself before she can trust Ethan, the spark and chemistry is evident, but reaching past the fear to grip onto love is so hard.

Ethan has been trying to reach out to Natalie ever since he saw her being abused outside on the street. He cannot get her out of his mind, he knows as soon as she calls, he will come running. Ethan wants her in his life everyday, helping him raise his son. Vowing to never push or take more than Natalie is willing to give will make the rewards so much sweeter.

There are so many ways to describe this novel; the list could on for days. It was very hard to read in many ways and can contain a lot of triggers. Ms. Gayle took a huge leap and went way out of the normal for her hockey players, the story needs to be told and brought into light. Their love story is a beautiful story full of hope. Ms. Gayles’ characters are full of life, and the plot was so carefully planned. It allowed the pieces to fall right into place for a hard fought battle that turned into a life long love. Rain Dance was a hard novel to read, I am not sure if I will ever be brave enough to reread it, however I know it will stay with me for a very long time.

[Lisa Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Ms. Gayle has done it again. She often brings to light topic that need to be discussed and this time she tackles the issue of domestic abuse and violence.

Ethan Higgins plays defense for the Tulsa Thunderbirds. His nickname is Huggy Bear, now shortened to bear. He is a huge man who loves is son immensely and tries to be a good role model to him. Just as he and his son are leaving the hockey arena he comes across his teammate beating a woman. He offers Natalie help but she refuses it and gets in the car with the wrong man.

Natalie knows that she should go with her abusive boyfriend but that is the devil that she knows. Before parting ways with her Ethan gives her his card and that turns out to be the thing the brings she and Ethan together.

Both have been victims of abuse and Ethan becomes her safe place. She is able to heal slowly and with therapy, move on with her life.

Ms. Gayle tackles this subject without glamorizing abuse. The story was well written and she draws you in some much so that you care about these characters. Ethan and Natalie are two kindred sprits that we drawn together because they each have suffered domestic violence. They are perfect for each other and he is a wonderful father with a heart of gold.

Natalie is a very strong character even though she doesn't recognize that in herself. She never completely lost hope and fought her way back from a horrific situation. This is a poignant story that brings to light the horrors of domestic abuse. Thankfully this story has a happy ending but so many other stories unfortunately don't end as well as this one did. This was a powerful story that I didn't put down until I finished it.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine Gayle never shies away from tough topics, she faces them head on and always handles them with such grace. Rain Dance is no different, the opening chapters of the book has a lot of triggers, I mean A LOT of triggers. She handles a horribly painful subject with such a delicate touch, that I promise you’ll be happy you endured the first part of the boom.

Natalie goes through so very much in this book, she’s broken but she fights through and learns to be her own woman, she knows she’s not weak, she learns she’s a kick-ass person and worthy of love. She grows so much in this book that in the end, one can look at their trials and tribulations and learn from her. Yes, Natalie is a fictional character, but no matter the pain you’ve suffered you can look at her experience and realize that the big message is that you just have to keep putting one foot in front of the other and you’ll get past whatever hurdles you’ve come across.

Ethan “Huggy Bear” is a wonderful example of a big ol’ teddy bear. He’s kind, loving and an amazing father. He’s has a history that you’ll want to learn more about and you’ll be proud of him for overcoming his own hurdles and being the Huggy Bear we all began to live in Rites of Passage.

Connor makes a lot of appearances and he and Snoopy are just as cute as ever! We see a lot of our beloved Thunderbirds and the WAGS, the team has gone from a bunch of random misfits to a family and I’m thrilled that I get see their growth.

Can’t wait for more Thunderbirds and Storm books!

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gritty and emotional read! It's not unusual for Catherine Gayle to tug at our heart strings with her endearing hockey romance novels, but this book far and away reaches a deeper part of us and makes us feel more than ever ... incredible anger, deep sadness and heartfelt empathy. With powerful words, she takes us deep into a situation of domestic abuse and the courageous aftermath. The characters were well developed with many familiar faces showing up from past books in the series, and the plot was very moving. Great read!

Tulsa Thunderbirds defenseman Ethan Higgins is living a fairly quiet life these days. He's in a rut in the game, he's not dating anyone or even casually hooking up much ... he's just enjoying his time as a Dad as often as possible when he has visitation with his son and trying to be nothing like his abusive old man. When a volatile situation arises in front of him and his son, he has to step up and help ... not only does he want to help her for his own peace of mind, but he also needs to show his son how a man should treat a lady.

Natalie Turner needs help ... she just doesn't know if she can trust to take it. When her boyfriends decides it's okay to start punching her out in public this time, it draws attention and further humiliates her. Ethan offers her help, but at first she can't accept it. He's another huge hockey player and if the one she currently has treats her this way, why wouldn't he? When the situation worsens, she finally reaches out to him ... and finds herself having the greatest protector around on her side!

[Jenny Metcalf · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has taken me awhile to write this review from when I read the book. Not because I hated the book but because it has taken me awhile to process the subject material and content. This book is not for the faint hearted. It is brutal, tough, honest and out there. Now I have decided I did like what I read even though it left my tummy rolling constantly.
Rain Dance is book 5 in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series. It follows the story of Ethan (Huggy Bear to his team mates) and Natalie who met Ethan whilst in a relationship with one of Bear's teammates. Ethan is not the star of the team nor is he a current solid contributor to scoring or assists. He is however a man of honour, loyalty and compassion.
Without giving too much of the plot line away, this novel includes graphic content of severe abuse. Ms Gayle does not pull any punches when it comes to her writing. She tells it how it is and is honest and in the real world.
If you love reading Catherine's work, read Rain Dance and don't get put off by the language and descriptions. There is an end and a great end. You will want to be involved with the characters and what they stand for. You will want to play hockey and be in the world of WAGS.
My only criticism? Her books finish too soon. I want to get lost in them forever!

[Angie McGuire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series.. Whether it's the Thunderbirds or the Storm, I love all the characters. Ethan is an amazing guy, with the biggest heart, and He has the ability to give and care for people is as big as he is. Being a single dad, with a great relationship with his ex (I loved that part), makes it easier than it should be to have time with his son, when they don't live in the same state. All of his character aspects point the way to Natalie, and how he became her Savior.

I'm not going into a lot of back story with Natalie, as I feel that would be more than I should give away, but it's amazingly written to a horrible part of someone's past (or present). No one likes to imagine that, but this author did it justice by bringing out out to the forefront, and telling it like it is. I'm just glad Natalie had Ethan to lean on.

You get to watch these two fall in love with each other, which is always my favorite part of a book. The past and present aren't going to ruin what they are building (hopefully), but it takes work and faith and love to make it better. I received an ARC from the author for an honest review. These characters deserved a book to tell their story and I'm very happy I was able to read it.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review. I cannot believe Catherine has done it again! Every time I start reading any book by Catherine, I always wonder if each book will be as good as the last, and Rain Dance did not disappoint. Catherine always finds a way to get real issues into the book and makes you feel the issues alongside the characters in her book. Rain Dance made me feel every emotion known to man, but it was worth it!

As the book starts, we meet another player in the Tulsa Thunderbirds team, Ethan Higgins. Natalie Turner and Higgins are instantly introduced when her boyfriend is physical with her in front of Ethan. To avoid spoilers, and a trigger warning, there is a lot of things that transpire after that instance, which lead to some of the most amazing writing that I have seen thus far from Catherine.

The Thunderbirds series seems to have a little more of a raw edge to it, and I definitely saw that in this book. No matter what, I know when I pick up a Catherine Gayle book, I am in for a rollercoaster, but it is worth it! I want that as a reader, and am so thankful I found an author that can do that!

[Opinionated and Brutally Honest Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had actually forgot I finished this book...
The one thing that got me “triggered” wasn’t even the rape. Her hospital stay was handled all wrong. Do they not understand how traumatized she is? They had a constant parade of people going in and out at the most embarrassing time of her life. She was completely humiliated. The nurses kept strapping her down instead of trying to talk her down. I know how it feels to be hallucinating and trying to escape a hospital bed. Being strapped down makes you struggle more. Her being held down and raped, which caused her hospitalization, makes it so much worse. Hospitals don’t just strap down every person that freaks out; especially not if they are small women.
I hate it when authors have rape victims jump into relationships right away. It isn’t believable at all. This case was especially annoying. She never got to stand on her own two feet. She constantly relied on everyone else to run her life. I kept waiting for her to try to get a job and leave. She needed something of her own. She got a backbone for about two seconds and then she lost it again. She needed to gain her independence without having a man try to shelter her from things.

[Kellie Herrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. I am not sure I have ever been on such an emotional role coaster than with this book and still be truly blown away by the amazing sort, passion and heart that went into every word in this book.

I will tell you that if you have any personal experience with domestic violence Themis will be a very hard book to read but for others it opens your eyes to the struggles that are out there.

Nathalie has lived most of her life in fear and never thought anyone could truly love her and not knowing what that could really feel like. Ethan grew up under the thumb of a man that used his fists to have a conversation. Together they work to heal each other in ways they never thought possible.

After reading this book you can't help but want to protect Nathalie and ever person out there in the world who has gone through what she has and at the same time Love Ethan for being their not only for her but anyone in need.

This may quite possible be the best book I have ever read by Catherine Gayle. Amazing story and completely amazing job putting a very difficult subject in the forefront.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine Gayle Does it again. This heavy but powerfully written book is the latest in the Tulsa Thunderbirds series and was well worth the wait. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book, this series and of course this author to any fans of contemporary romance and well written books in general.
This book contains heavy subject matter and comes with trigger warnings but once again Catherine Gayle finds a way to depict these types of story lines with dignity and grace and finds a way to make sense out of them as only she can. It's amazing to me that she writes two active series (this one is a spin off of The Portland Storm) at the same time and is able to keep their unique tone in place without them blending together. These are great series, each book leaving you more and more invested in these characters and hungry for the next release.
Do yourself a favor and add this book and every other book this author has written to your collection, you will kick yourself that you didn't sooner.
Happy Reading...enjoy!

[Chelsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine Gayle has done it again! Rain Dance is the fifth book in the Tulsa Thunderbirds hockey romance series. The Thunderbirds series is hot, raw, and edgy. The series features characters with rough and complicated past experiences and these novels really explore the raw nature of past trauma.

Rain Dance features Ethan Higgins who saves Natalie Turner from her abusive relationship. Catherine did a great job in introducing us to Ethan in earlier books in the series and this novel was the perfect window into the complexities of his character. For me, what I loved most about this novel, is how it seemed that the Thunderbirds team started to truly feel like a hockey family, much like the Portland Storm (Catherine's other hockey romance series). How the whole team bonded together to assist Natalie was truly heart-warming.

*I received a free Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest thoughts/opinions of the author's book.*

[Christina Montminy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, is about all I can think of at this moment. This latest instalment of the Tulsa Thunderbirds is just amazing. It's very dark in the beginning with the abuse of Natalie & the history of Ethan but you just couldn't put it down. The depth that Catherine Gayle has in this book unbelievable. Two damaged people, one hoping for death, the other fitting for her life. Ethan fought hard for Natalie, he didn't believe that she wouldn't make it back even as Natalie prayed for death during her abuse & after while recovering from her injuries. The fact that Natalie survived at all proved that she was a strong person & with Ethan & the others giving her strength & support she achieved her recovery. The fact that she was able to allow Ethan to love her & to realize she loved him back was beautiful. Also bringing Ethan's battered mother into their home was a strong moment. Definitely recommend this book and series.

[JKAF · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Trigger Warning: contains graphic scenes depicting domestic and sexual abuse***
This is not through out the whole book but a chunk in the beginning.
This will be a short review so I don't give anything away or post the wrong thing




































After leaving a preseason game with his son Ethan heard the unmistakable sound of someone getting hit and when he gets close enough to see what is going on...it's his teammate Hayes hitting his girlfriend to which Ethan has to stop!
After Ethan broke up the altercation Hayes takes his girlfriend Natalie home....unfortunately by Ethan helping only makes things worse for Natalie because at home unthinkable and unspeakable horrors happen. The next morning Natalie sends out a text to Ethan asking for help.


***Good news there is a HEA!*****