Former Rain

Rain #1

by Vanessa Miller

When it Rains it pours, just ask Elizabeth Underwood or Nina Lewis. They thought the unfaithful men in their lives caused their storms, but as they are forced on a journey of self-examination, they realize that something greater than a "do right" man is needed to heal the hurts that trouble their souls.

Genres: Christian, Fiction, African American, Christian Fiction

276 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

About the author

Vanessa Miller is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, playwright, and motivational speaker. She started writing as a child, spending countless hours either reading or writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels. Vanessa’s creative endeavors took on new meaning in1994 when she became a Christian. Since then, her writing has been centered on themes of redemption, often focusing on characters facing multi-dimensional struggles.

Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained minister in her church, explaining, “God has called me to minister to readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
· Essence Bestsellers’ List March 2008; May 2008 (Former Rain)
· Essence Bestsellers’ List September 2008 (Rain Storm)
· Black Expressions Book Club Alternate Selection 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
· #1 Ebook for fiction on Amazon.com November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
· #1 on BCNN/BCBC Bestsellers’ List November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
She has worked with numerous publishers: Urban Christian, Kimani Romance, Abingdon Press and Whitaker House. She is currently working on Something Good with Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins) which releases in March 2022.

In 2016, Vanessa launched the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat in an effort to bring readers and authors of Christian fiction together in an environment that’s all about Faith, Fun & Fellowship. To learn more about Vanessa, please visit her website: www.vanessamiller.com. If you would like to know more about the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat that is currently held in Charlotte, NC during the last week in October you can visit: http://www.christianbookloversretreat...
Vanessa lives in North Carolina with her husband and family. She graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication.

Most of Vanessa’s published novels depict characters that are lost and in need of redemption. The books have received countless favorable reviews.

“. . . Heartwarming, drama-packed and tender in just the right places.”—Romantic Times Book Review.

“Recommended for readers of redemption stories.” –Library Journal.

www.vanessamiller.com

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Reviews

[Jessica Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME

This was truly a great read. The way the characters were built along with their storylines and the outstanding spiritual piece had me praising GOD!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Vanessa Miller read and when I say I couldn't put this book down I mean it. This is true christian fiction at its finest! This book was very real and relatable. it's like you get to know the characters personally. I laughed, screamed and fussed all through this book. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend this book to anyone. This is a real life down to earth book.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

God's changing power is contagious!

Wow! This book kept my attention the whole time. I highly recommend it to absolutely everyone, and I hope to get the rest of the series at some point. My favorite thing was how these women accepted Jesus in some awful situations. Is my faith in Jesus as contagious as theirs? Very well done!!!

[Rasheeda Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a faith jolt to my spirit. I was moved throughout the book in how Nina transformed. That's what I desire in Christ.

[Becky Hornick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

[Zenobia Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love the way this author describes the Angels and the work they do. I just automatically go into praise mode when I read about these heavenly beings. And this Is a very good series to read.

[Makena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initially, I thought the book was kind of slow and dry in the beginning. I am used to reading books that start of at a high pace when it comes to the storyline. The more I started getting into the story of the two female lead characters, I started to see why the author started off slow. I was about to strangle Elizabeth; I just can't stand the whole "angry black woman" stereotype that she portrayed in the book. Towards the end, the author made up for it when she started to bring me to the cross. The fourth quarter of the book made it worth reading this book. The book is nice and short and hopefully, I will be able to read the remaining books of this trilogy soon. Will add both to my Wish list!

[AnnAaliyah Morton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two women named Elizbaeth and nina have troubled marriage. nina become prenant by Issac. Issac thinks she goes to get an abortion, but she was just walking by the building. Issac gets a call from his friend saying she was getting an abortion and where she's at.Issac finds her and begins to beat on her, he punches her in the stomach. Elizabeth goes to church to get her life together as well as nina.

[Chivon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. Sometimes with me if a story is good, but not spectacular, I get tired of the story when it goes on too long. I would have to say that maybe the Rain series is like that for me. It's a good story that I'm interested in, but it doesn't have to be 3 whole books long. The book covers too long a time period and too many ideas and events for me to stay interested. With all that said, I still liked the book, just think it could have been done a little better.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book tells the truth, without God in your life you are lost. God gives you the strength that you never thought you had to carry out the daily assignments. God gave Elizabeth the strength she needed to handle Kenneth. Also God gave Nina the strength to leave Issac and put him into God hands. The book was awesome. This is a must read

[Glenda Griffin · Rating 1 out of 5]

Former Rain

I was enjoying the novel until the author broke a cardinal rule, she wrote something she knew nothing about, and I couldn't complete the novel. I'm a native of Chicago, Michigan Avenue and State Street both run North and South they would never cross. Next time Vanessa do your research.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story about natural love as well as spiritual love. It is a great read with plenty of drama. I am disappointed in the ending. It leaves you wanting and wondering will here be more.

[Barbara Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This is a real page Turner. The characters and storyline really captures your attention. Realistic story and I can't wait to see what hay
ppens to the characters in book 2.

[Laticia]

MUST READ.

[Jalisa Conklin]

It was great.

[Vanetra Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very good. If you are struggling with forgiveness this would be a bood read for you. I read this book in a day and a half.

[Marsha W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good read. this book brought both heaven and hell to life within its pages. Ms Miller made the realness of heaven and hell apparent to her readers... I would highly recommend this book!

[Lori Key hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

very very very good book

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not cried from a Christian book since I read Woman Thou Art Loose. I was actually crying while reading this book. I can not put into words how much I love this book.

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nina, Elizabeth, Isaac, Kenneth and a host of other characters are living their everyday lives when they experience a life altering moment that will change their lives forever.

[Freda Duncan]

Excellent

[Veronica Shire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspirational to see different way 's people come to Christ.Helps you stay focused on your call.

[Mserika · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am Truth--3.5 Stars--This was a good book but nothing spectacular out of the way. Don't get me wrong I will continue to read to find out what happens with Issac & Kenneth....

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT!!!

[Cf · Rating 2 out of 5]

Christian fiction with an urban twist. Not my usual cup of tea but an okay change. Not sure if I will continue with the series.

[Yolanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My God! My God! My soul is so stirred and on fire for more. On to the second book! Superb. This book goes on my list of favorites.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good novel Vanessa Miller. I loved the story and all the relationships as well as how God's message was in each of the ladies stories. I look forward to reading every book in The Rain series!

[Mrp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read keep my attention. Good series to teach one the power of praying no matter what!!!!

[Escense · Rating 4 out of 5]

loved it

[Marcia Lattimore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, but I'd would have rather read Former Rain before Latter Rain. It was a good read though. I enjoyed the graphic descriptions.