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Rain Dance
Jonica and Staci meet in a doctor's office at a critical turning point in each of their lives. Jonica is ending unsuccessful infertility treatments and accepting the death of her dream of having children. Staci is scheduling the termination of her pregnancy so she can further her dream of a career in law. As the two young women tentatively reach out to each other, they forge a most unlikely friendship that will forever transform their future.
348 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 12
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337 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 1, 2014
This is a first time for me with this Author. This is a Christian fiction book and I really liked it a lot. I found this book to be a good testament to faith. I will have to look for more from this Author.
I love the premise to this story a lot. And after reading the synopsis of the story I really wanted to read it. It shows the struggles these people face in life and how they deal with what they are presented and how their faith is affected. There were parts that were so touching and heart wrenching at the same time. It truly made me feel a lot.
The characters were very good and I loved them, The 2 main characters are so different from one another and I love how DeKok brings them together in this story. Very touching and heartfelt and definitely very thought provoking which I love. This story left me feeling pretty good and would definitely be a book I would read again in the future.
I think if you like Christian fiction then you would probably like this book. It was very sweet and very fluid and easy to read. So glad I discovered this one and this new Author.
I love the premise to this story a lot. And after reading the synopsis of the story I really wanted to read it. It shows the struggles these people face in life and how they deal with what they are presented and how their faith is affected. There were parts that were so touching and heart wrenching at the same time. It truly made me feel a lot.
The characters were very good and I loved them, The 2 main characters are so different from one another and I love how DeKok brings them together in this story. Very touching and heartfelt and definitely very thought provoking which I love. This story left me feeling pretty good and would definitely be a book I would read again in the future.
I think if you like Christian fiction then you would probably like this book. It was very sweet and very fluid and easy to read. So glad I discovered this one and this new Author.
April 23, 2013
Rain Dance, written by Joy Dekok, is an insightful book dealing with the difficult topics of abortion and infertility. Joy is a talented writer, and I liked her style of beautifully crafting this story, from paragraph to paragraph. Written in first person point of view, the storyline is a difficult one, but she handles it in an amazingly adept manner. She writes a heartwarming story about a chance meeting and the strong friendship that develops between two unlikely, completely and totally opposite women and how that impacts them and the ones they love. In spite of their differences, they are drawn together and form a bond. From page one, I became deeply immersed, and the story stayed with me even when I finished the last sentence. I felt sad when the book ended and wanted to follow the characters into the next chapter of their lives.
I really enjoyed how the book switched viewpoints between the main characters, Jonica Johnson and Stacie Cutter, so I could see how each scene unfolded from their unique perspectives and get into their hearts and minds, thoughts and emotions. This aspect of the book was particularly fun, and I looked forward to reading the alternating voices of the two main characters and getting into each woman’s head. I liked the refreshing honesty this book portrays as well. Both women are hurting and their emotions are raw, and none of that is hidden from the reader. Stacie is career focused and self-centered, and Jonica is angry at God and confused about her infertility. I laughed and cried and got angry right along with them. Joy writes in such a way that it’s easy to feel the same emotions the characters are experiencing, whether it be confusion and frustration, or pain and anger, or exhilaration and triumph.
As the ending unfolded, the writer handed us one surprise after another. God’s intervention through the story redeems and restores without being cliché. His presence brings comfort even when a heart’s desire may not be granted, or a prayer prayed may not be answered in the way we want it to or think it will be.
I wouldn’t hesitate to offer this beautifully and sensitively written book to anyone to read – it’s that good and will touch everyone’s heart. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy. Overall, I give this book 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed how the book switched viewpoints between the main characters, Jonica Johnson and Stacie Cutter, so I could see how each scene unfolded from their unique perspectives and get into their hearts and minds, thoughts and emotions. This aspect of the book was particularly fun, and I looked forward to reading the alternating voices of the two main characters and getting into each woman’s head. I liked the refreshing honesty this book portrays as well. Both women are hurting and their emotions are raw, and none of that is hidden from the reader. Stacie is career focused and self-centered, and Jonica is angry at God and confused about her infertility. I laughed and cried and got angry right along with them. Joy writes in such a way that it’s easy to feel the same emotions the characters are experiencing, whether it be confusion and frustration, or pain and anger, or exhilaration and triumph.
As the ending unfolded, the writer handed us one surprise after another. God’s intervention through the story redeems and restores without being cliché. His presence brings comfort even when a heart’s desire may not be granted, or a prayer prayed may not be answered in the way we want it to or think it will be.
I wouldn’t hesitate to offer this beautifully and sensitively written book to anyone to read – it’s that good and will touch everyone’s heart. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy. Overall, I give this book 5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
August 9, 2012
When I told a few people I was reading a Christian novel, they looked at me quizzically and said, "but you're Jewish". I don't judge a book by it's cover or its reviews and I always try to keep an open mind. I will admit, I understand Jonica's struggle and I think I was told about this book so that I would have more faith. While I am Jewish and don't consider Jesus to be my savior, and while the preachiness bothered me quite a bit in the beginning, this is a beautiful story about faith, friendship, love and family. Wow. Exhausting read, thoughtful read but so beautifully written and I am better for having read it.
June 27, 2011
This book is by my dear friend, mentor and fellow author. She is a talented author and has written a book on a challenging subject matter with grace and conviction.
November 16, 2022
Sometimes there are sad cries, sometimes happy. When a book has a mix of both, an author has the right of it.
Rain Dance (and I had no idea where that title came from until the end) was at times hard to read because of an abortion, a childless woman's anguish, and one woman's apathetic mother. But there were cleansing tears reading how the gospel touched lives through one person’s constant love and faith.
This book is partially autobiographical because she relates entirely to one woman and their stories are the same. It’s clear why the author writes with such feeling.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Oh, I can’t help but mention the narrator, Becky Doughty. She has the sweetest voice and I always enjoy her reading.
Rain Dance (and I had no idea where that title came from until the end) was at times hard to read because of an abortion, a childless woman's anguish, and one woman's apathetic mother. But there were cleansing tears reading how the gospel touched lives through one person’s constant love and faith.
This book is partially autobiographical because she relates entirely to one woman and their stories are the same. It’s clear why the author writes with such feeling.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Oh, I can’t help but mention the narrator, Becky Doughty. She has the sweetest voice and I always enjoy her reading.
July 29, 2017
A great story! I love how the reader gets to see into the heart, mind & soul of the characters. So many things in life affect the choices we make & then those choices affect our life & the lives of others. I think we often just think of ourselves & don't realize how our decisions can have such a ripple effect. So many Jonicas & Stacies in the world. I wonder how many times I've unintentionally said something hurtful. How many times have I simply not tried to understand? How many times have I judged when it was not my place? Loved how we saw the different faith journeys of the characters! This book really. Made me think!
October 9, 2017
Amazing
This book was amazing. It illustrated the pain one woman went through because she couldn't have children and also the pain another woman went through because she chose to have an abortion. The two women originally met in the doctor's officials office, each dealing with their own issues of pain. How God was able to use the one who was barren to help the other is what it was all about. Many different people had their lives impacted due to the two women.
This book was amazing. It illustrated the pain one woman went through because she couldn't have children and also the pain another woman went through because she chose to have an abortion. The two women originally met in the doctor's officials office, each dealing with their own issues of pain. How God was able to use the one who was barren to help the other is what it was all about. Many different people had their lives impacted due to the two women.
April 19, 2020
Not your typical christian fiction. Deals with tough issues in a compassionate way that points others to Christ. Only real criticism is the author's focus in what the character's were drinking. Every couple of pages they were pouring lemonade over ice, having iced grape juice or needing a drink of cold water. It happened so often it was almost humorous.
March 6, 2019
excellent story line with a great christian message. three stars is for the simplicity of the writing style.
March 13, 2019
I loved it!! I can't wait to read another book by her.
August 20, 2023
Touch my very soul!
This book will make you examine your heart! Forgiveness and Christ's love are woven into this story in way that won't let you stop reading.
This book will make you examine your heart! Forgiveness and Christ's love are woven into this story in way that won't let you stop reading.
March 2, 2024
I really enjoyed the way author brought together two women from vastly different backgrounds and beliefs. I fell in love with Stacie and Jonica and their journey into friendship.
June 11, 2012
Infertile woman authors post-abortive novel
"My husband Jon and I obeyed God and waited to be intimate until we married. We longed for children born out of our love for each other," said Joy DeKok, Rochester, Minn., resident and author of the book, RainDance. "But God said, "No."
Though Rain Dance is a work of fiction, the story's premise is Joy's decades-long journey with infertility. Her novel begins with her main character's encounter in a doctor's office with Stacie, a woman about to abort her unborn child.
Joy's heart for post-abortive women began in 1971, two years before the procedure became legal in the U.S. Joy was in eighth grade. "My 14-year-old friend had an illegal abortion. Nothing was the same for her afterward. I believe she pulled away from her friends because we didn't know how to understand her loss. I still think about her."
Joy believes the grieving process between infertile and post-abortive women is similar. "For the infertile woman, grief is about a child never conceived. For the post-abortive woman, it is about a child conceived and never born. We both miss the children we will never hold," she said.
As divine irony would have it, it is because of her childlessness that Joy came to write Rain Dance. "I was cleaning house one day when God gave me the idea for the book. I remember saying to God, 'I do not want to do this. Ask someone else.' But the story grew in my heart." Months later, Joy began the outline with the words tumbling onto the page.
The writing did not come without the reopening of old wounds for Joy. "Hurtful comments have not changed in all these years. People still say if infertile couples would get rid of the sin in their lives they'd conceive. If this were true, no one would conceive because we're all sinners."
Joy found comfort in John 9. "Jesus said the reason for the man's blindness was not because of his sin but to bring honor and glory to God," she said. "God used that to heal the brand left on my heart by unkind words."
The reaction to her novel has been remarkable. It has comforted young women just beginning their infertility journey as well as post-abortive women. "even though [post-abortive women] are forgiven by Christ, they are afraid for other Christians to know," Joy said.
"They are afraid of the judgment. I understand that. As an infertile woman, I have felt such judgment too." Women who have buried their secret for years have written Joy or visited with her after a speaking engagement. "I'm a Stacie too," is often how they begin the freeing and healing dialogue of confession.
With one in four women, churched and unchurched, having had abortions, Joy longs for the day where women unveil their secrets and feel safe from judgment in doing so. "I believe with all my heart if women who have not had abortions would make it safe for women who are post-abortive to talk about their experience, the abortion issue would radically change," she said. "The gospels are so powerful because they are eyewitness accounts. It's one thing for me to tell about the lies and horrors of post-abortive women. It's another thing completely when it comes from them."
It is Joy's hope that women will eventually feel free to share their stories. "It is essential that we love post-abortive women. They are our friends. By allowing them to share their stories, aside from the healing that occurs, perhaps it will prevent another woman from taking the same action," Joy said.
"While God didn't let a child be conceived in my womb," she said reflectively, "He conceived this love in my heart for post-abortive women."
Rain Dance is currently available as an e-book. For more information about Joy, please see her website, www.joydekok.com
"My husband Jon and I obeyed God and waited to be intimate until we married. We longed for children born out of our love for each other," said Joy DeKok, Rochester, Minn., resident and author of the book, RainDance. "But God said, "No."
Though Rain Dance is a work of fiction, the story's premise is Joy's decades-long journey with infertility. Her novel begins with her main character's encounter in a doctor's office with Stacie, a woman about to abort her unborn child.
Joy's heart for post-abortive women began in 1971, two years before the procedure became legal in the U.S. Joy was in eighth grade. "My 14-year-old friend had an illegal abortion. Nothing was the same for her afterward. I believe she pulled away from her friends because we didn't know how to understand her loss. I still think about her."
Joy believes the grieving process between infertile and post-abortive women is similar. "For the infertile woman, grief is about a child never conceived. For the post-abortive woman, it is about a child conceived and never born. We both miss the children we will never hold," she said.
As divine irony would have it, it is because of her childlessness that Joy came to write Rain Dance. "I was cleaning house one day when God gave me the idea for the book. I remember saying to God, 'I do not want to do this. Ask someone else.' But the story grew in my heart." Months later, Joy began the outline with the words tumbling onto the page.
The writing did not come without the reopening of old wounds for Joy. "Hurtful comments have not changed in all these years. People still say if infertile couples would get rid of the sin in their lives they'd conceive. If this were true, no one would conceive because we're all sinners."
Joy found comfort in John 9. "Jesus said the reason for the man's blindness was not because of his sin but to bring honor and glory to God," she said. "God used that to heal the brand left on my heart by unkind words."
The reaction to her novel has been remarkable. It has comforted young women just beginning their infertility journey as well as post-abortive women. "even though [post-abortive women] are forgiven by Christ, they are afraid for other Christians to know," Joy said.
"They are afraid of the judgment. I understand that. As an infertile woman, I have felt such judgment too." Women who have buried their secret for years have written Joy or visited with her after a speaking engagement. "I'm a Stacie too," is often how they begin the freeing and healing dialogue of confession.
With one in four women, churched and unchurched, having had abortions, Joy longs for the day where women unveil their secrets and feel safe from judgment in doing so. "I believe with all my heart if women who have not had abortions would make it safe for women who are post-abortive to talk about their experience, the abortion issue would radically change," she said. "The gospels are so powerful because they are eyewitness accounts. It's one thing for me to tell about the lies and horrors of post-abortive women. It's another thing completely when it comes from them."
It is Joy's hope that women will eventually feel free to share their stories. "It is essential that we love post-abortive women. They are our friends. By allowing them to share their stories, aside from the healing that occurs, perhaps it will prevent another woman from taking the same action," Joy said.
"While God didn't let a child be conceived in my womb," she said reflectively, "He conceived this love in my heart for post-abortive women."
Rain Dance is currently available as an e-book. For more information about Joy, please see her website, www.joydekok.com
November 11, 2010
Rain Dance: A Novel, written by Joy DeKok, is the story of two women - one who cannot have children and the other, pregnant and determined to have an abortion so that nothing will hold her back from a planned law career. The two women, Jonica and Stacie, meet in a doctor's office, where they both have an appointment.
Stacie has made an appointment to terminate her pregnancy. Jonica is there for a totally different reason. She's been coming to the doctor for fertility treatments and now she's decided to end them and deal with the fact that she won't ever have children of her own. She and her husband have spent thousands of dollars on the treatments, only to have their hopes dashed each month.
Stacie's openness about having an abortion shocks Jonica to the core and even after the two parted, she finds that she can't forget Stacie. Stacie couldn't forget Jonica and her dilemma either and the two women meet again, this time confronting each other about their beliefs. After the confrontation, a strange and fragile friendship begins as the two women face their own hypocrisies and mistaken beliefs. Jonica and Stacie discover they actually have similarities and enough common ground for a friendship.
Rain Dance communicates a strong message in this world where views on abortion can be stark black or white. It shows that we can work together without being confrontational or by using guerrilla tactics to change another's belief system. Readers of Rain Dance will be delighted as they follow Jonica and Stacie reaching out to each other to form a friendship that will change both of their futures.
Sometimes we go through life rejecting that which we don't understand. Rain Dance is a call to everyone - especially women - to reach out to others and support their choices, even if we have a hard time understanding them. While abortion is legal, it's highly condemned by many churches and it's a choice that seems unfathomable to infertile couples. Rain Dance shows plainly why condemnation isn't something we should engage in.
Healing and hope is the main message of DeKok's book, Rain Dance, and it will open readers' eyes about the hypocrisy in their own beliefs. Only when we face our own hypocrisies will we be able to help others and get on with our lives without being judgmental. Rain Dance helps us see and better understand the fiery issue of abortion - both from a political and a personal standpoint.
Whether you're pro-life or pro-choice, you'll enjoy the touching story of Rain Dance. It may not change your opinion on the touchy subject of abortion, but you'll most certainly come away with a better understanding of both sides.
Review by Lauren Smith
This review covers Rain Dance, by Joy DeKok.
Article Source: A Story of Two Women - And the Choices They Made
Stacie has made an appointment to terminate her pregnancy. Jonica is there for a totally different reason. She's been coming to the doctor for fertility treatments and now she's decided to end them and deal with the fact that she won't ever have children of her own. She and her husband have spent thousands of dollars on the treatments, only to have their hopes dashed each month.
Stacie's openness about having an abortion shocks Jonica to the core and even after the two parted, she finds that she can't forget Stacie. Stacie couldn't forget Jonica and her dilemma either and the two women meet again, this time confronting each other about their beliefs. After the confrontation, a strange and fragile friendship begins as the two women face their own hypocrisies and mistaken beliefs. Jonica and Stacie discover they actually have similarities and enough common ground for a friendship.
Rain Dance communicates a strong message in this world where views on abortion can be stark black or white. It shows that we can work together without being confrontational or by using guerrilla tactics to change another's belief system. Readers of Rain Dance will be delighted as they follow Jonica and Stacie reaching out to each other to form a friendship that will change both of their futures.
Sometimes we go through life rejecting that which we don't understand. Rain Dance is a call to everyone - especially women - to reach out to others and support their choices, even if we have a hard time understanding them. While abortion is legal, it's highly condemned by many churches and it's a choice that seems unfathomable to infertile couples. Rain Dance shows plainly why condemnation isn't something we should engage in.
Healing and hope is the main message of DeKok's book, Rain Dance, and it will open readers' eyes about the hypocrisy in their own beliefs. Only when we face our own hypocrisies will we be able to help others and get on with our lives without being judgmental. Rain Dance helps us see and better understand the fiery issue of abortion - both from a political and a personal standpoint.
Whether you're pro-life or pro-choice, you'll enjoy the touching story of Rain Dance. It may not change your opinion on the touchy subject of abortion, but you'll most certainly come away with a better understanding of both sides.
Review by Lauren Smith
This review covers Rain Dance, by Joy DeKok.
Article Source: A Story of Two Women - And the Choices They Made
May 5, 2013
Rain Dance by Joy Dekok is a book that every woman should read. I am definitely Pro-Life but had never really thought all that much about abortion and how the women that had abortions felt after the fact so this book was really an eye opener for me. The story centers around two women who meet at their obstetrician’s office. Jonica who is infertile is there to tell the doctor that she and her husband no longer want to try to get pregnant using the latest medical methods. Staci is there to set up an appointment for an abortion because her pregnancy is not convenient for her since she is just getting started in her law practice. As different as the two women are, they form a real friendship and Jonica who is a devout Christian shares her faith in God with Stacie and then prays and waits for God to work on Stacie’s heart.
The plot of the story was well developed and the author wrote on the subject of infertility and abortion with a great deal of understanding and with deep feelings for the women involved. Even though the story is fiction, it reads like real life and strives for healing and understanding for women who are either infertile or have had an abortion or even thinking of having one. The author also helps the reader to realize that these women need our compassion and support. The plot takes a twist when Stacie finds photos of her mother holding a baby boy but she cannot remember having a baby brother. Stacie cannot forget what she saw and begins a search to find out about the brother. This search and what she learns adds a new dimension to the story. The author made the characters in the story so real that I wanted to just give each of them a hug and tell them that Jesus loved them. I was deeply touched by this book and I cannot remember the last time I cried so much while reading a novel.
I highly recommend this book to all women and think that men would also benefit from reading it. The story is not only about the two women but includes their families as well. The story has a great ending.. I had wondered about the title of the book but at the end it is clear why Rain Dance was the perfect title.
A big thank you to the author, Joy Dekok, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The plot of the story was well developed and the author wrote on the subject of infertility and abortion with a great deal of understanding and with deep feelings for the women involved. Even though the story is fiction, it reads like real life and strives for healing and understanding for women who are either infertile or have had an abortion or even thinking of having one. The author also helps the reader to realize that these women need our compassion and support. The plot takes a twist when Stacie finds photos of her mother holding a baby boy but she cannot remember having a baby brother. Stacie cannot forget what she saw and begins a search to find out about the brother. This search and what she learns adds a new dimension to the story. The author made the characters in the story so real that I wanted to just give each of them a hug and tell them that Jesus loved them. I was deeply touched by this book and I cannot remember the last time I cried so much while reading a novel.
I highly recommend this book to all women and think that men would also benefit from reading it. The story is not only about the two women but includes their families as well. The story has a great ending.. I had wondered about the title of the book but at the end it is clear why Rain Dance was the perfect title.
A big thank you to the author, Joy Dekok, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 28, 2013
Imagine a Christian woman trying fertility treatments to fill her longing for a baby meeting a woman who is waiting to talk to the same doctor about arranging an abortion. They are unable to forget each other. They find themselves drawn together in spite of their drastic differences. Each one already knows the deepest secret about the other. In meeting again, they discover surprising similarities and a deep, warm, respectful friendship grows quickly to also include their husbands and extended families.
Jonica, who has longed and prayed for a baby, decided to give up the fertility treatments and to trust that God had a plan. Stacie, the product of an outspoken mother with high demands and a father who loved them both, chose to have an abortion because a baby didn't fit into the plans she had for her future at that point. Both women didn't think about how these decisions will influence their day-to-day life afterwards and change the way they deal with their close relationships. A twist in the tale further complicated matters.
I enjoyed the switching first-person narration as the story gives the view of each of the main characters, sometimes repeating the same scene seen from different corners. I felt closer to both of the women as a result and did not choose the one over the other. They are both human, both hurting, and both growing in the process as well as learning more about themselves.
Although the story pushes the Christian issue, shows how love can change people even though it is not always an easy choice, it does not mean everyone comes to Christ in the end and live happily ever after. It also does not mean that all the Christians in the story are full of dancing and light! Some of them are mean and inconsiderate. There are choices to be made, just as in life, and twists in the planned path do not help.
As the author states, "There is no happily ever after for either of my girls, but there is a hope-filled and hard-won victory for both."
Jonica, who has longed and prayed for a baby, decided to give up the fertility treatments and to trust that God had a plan. Stacie, the product of an outspoken mother with high demands and a father who loved them both, chose to have an abortion because a baby didn't fit into the plans she had for her future at that point. Both women didn't think about how these decisions will influence their day-to-day life afterwards and change the way they deal with their close relationships. A twist in the tale further complicated matters.
I enjoyed the switching first-person narration as the story gives the view of each of the main characters, sometimes repeating the same scene seen from different corners. I felt closer to both of the women as a result and did not choose the one over the other. They are both human, both hurting, and both growing in the process as well as learning more about themselves.
Although the story pushes the Christian issue, shows how love can change people even though it is not always an easy choice, it does not mean everyone comes to Christ in the end and live happily ever after. It also does not mean that all the Christians in the story are full of dancing and light! Some of them are mean and inconsiderate. There are choices to be made, just as in life, and twists in the planned path do not help.
As the author states, "There is no happily ever after for either of my girls, but there is a hope-filled and hard-won victory for both."
June 12, 2010
Imagine that you are sitting in the waiting room of your OB/GYN doctor’s office. A young woman comes in, sits down beside you and a conversation ensues. She reveals that she is there to schedule an abortion. What irony! You and your husband have tried for years to get pregnant with no success. Today you have come to the doctor’s office to inform him of your decision to stop all infertility treatments.
This is the opening scene of Rain Dance and the beginning of an unlikely friendship between the two main characters, Jonica and Stacie. One is a Christian, one is not. One desperately wants a baby and can’t have one. One has a baby, but doesn’t want it.
Author Joy DeKok masterfully weaves Jonica's and Stacie's stories together as she takes you through this time in their lives—two women who have absolutely nothing in common. The chapters alternate between Jonica and Stacie, giving their perspective on the situations they face. A friendship will be forged between you and these two women. Joy has developed these characters so beautifully that you will remember them long after you have finished reading Rain Dance.
The message of God’s love and redemption, His forgiveness, grace and mercy is threaded throughout the book. For those women who have experienced Him and know Him, this message is a beautiful reminder of God’s love for you. And for those who do not know Him, this book is an invitation to meet God and become intimately acquainted with Him. No matter which group of women you are in, when you finish reading the last page and close the book, you will be a changed woman.
This is the opening scene of Rain Dance and the beginning of an unlikely friendship between the two main characters, Jonica and Stacie. One is a Christian, one is not. One desperately wants a baby and can’t have one. One has a baby, but doesn’t want it.
Author Joy DeKok masterfully weaves Jonica's and Stacie's stories together as she takes you through this time in their lives—two women who have absolutely nothing in common. The chapters alternate between Jonica and Stacie, giving their perspective on the situations they face. A friendship will be forged between you and these two women. Joy has developed these characters so beautifully that you will remember them long after you have finished reading Rain Dance.
The message of God’s love and redemption, His forgiveness, grace and mercy is threaded throughout the book. For those women who have experienced Him and know Him, this message is a beautiful reminder of God’s love for you. And for those who do not know Him, this book is an invitation to meet God and become intimately acquainted with Him. No matter which group of women you are in, when you finish reading the last page and close the book, you will be a changed woman.
September 16, 2013
Rain Dance is a special kind of book. It speaks about a very controversial topic Abortion. I know when I first started to read the book I anticipated a in your face how abortion is killing life and God say's thou shall not kill and all the other stereo typical pro-life arguments. Rain Dance is not that kind of book. It is a story about two young women named Staci, and Jonica. Jonica is a believer and she is desperately trying her hardest to get pregnant, but unfortunately she has not been able to have children. Staci is a young career girl who has everything, but gets pregnant. Well Staci and Jonica's path cross and the story begins. This book speaks about abortion and how not only does a child dies, this one act has many victims. The woman who aborted her baby, to the husband, and family members. On the other hand not being able to have children is also another heart break. Their are many people involved that also suffer. This books shares Jonica's journey of acceptance, and Staci's journey of healing from an abortion. See how two women become best friends to even witnessing when God reveals Himself. It is a wonderful book. It has made the list of one of my favorite books. I loved the testimony of Jonica and how she shares the Word to people. She gives people books. This is one thing that I think I will begin to do. Thank you. I received this book for free from Bookbub.com
December 9, 2009
Rain Dance by Joy DeKok is a moving look at the power of friendship and faith. Jonica is in her fertility specialist's office to end treatment in acceptance of her barrenness as part of God's plan when she meets Stacie who is there to schedule an abortion for a child who doesn't fit into the plan of her busy life. That fateful meeting will leave both women both permanently changed. Stacie's marriage falls apart in the wake of the abortion, and she turns her anger on Jonica who instead embraces her and the women find a way to bridge the gap between them. DeKok uses Jonica to tell of her own struggle with infertility and she offers up a valuable lesson for anyone who judges couples who are childless. Jonica's faith carrier her through every storm and intrigues Stacie into checking it out for herself. The book is a wonderful read about friendship and how to love those who may be so different from us. The only trouble I had with it was discovering 2/3 of the way through that Jonica is only 24. Based on her career, lifestyle, and attitude, I assumed that she was closer to thirty or even in her mid-thirties. Despite that small issue, it's a great read that should encourage readers on both sides of the abortion debate.
January 18, 2016
I enjoy reading books that show me different points of view, and encourage me to think about things a little differently. Rain Dance has an interesting premise, of which it completely fails to deliver.
Though the book is written from the point of view of two characters, the author's bias and personal views shadow both characters. Through the main character, the author clearly wants to show that Christians can be cool (she rides a motorcycle!), and don't always preach, but she preaches with almost every breath she takes - to herself, her husband, doctor, and friends.
This novel really feels like pro-life propaganda attempting to be novel - but it doesn't make the cut. The characters are not well developed, the dialogue is unrealistic, and the author simply doesn't seem to have a grasp of human nature. The things that happen in this book simply would not happen in real life.
If you are seeking this book for the various view points, don't bother. Only one side is actually presented.
Though the book is written from the point of view of two characters, the author's bias and personal views shadow both characters. Through the main character, the author clearly wants to show that Christians can be cool (she rides a motorcycle!), and don't always preach, but she preaches with almost every breath she takes - to herself, her husband, doctor, and friends.
This novel really feels like pro-life propaganda attempting to be novel - but it doesn't make the cut. The characters are not well developed, the dialogue is unrealistic, and the author simply doesn't seem to have a grasp of human nature. The things that happen in this book simply would not happen in real life.
If you are seeking this book for the various view points, don't bother. Only one side is actually presented.
January 18, 2012
Rain Dance by Joy DeKok is about the faith and friendship of two unlikely characters who become great friends- Jonica who is childless and barren and Stacie who has an abortion. Their chance meeting in the doctor’s office changes both of their lives.
Jonica is at her lowest because as a Christian she can’t understand while God allows her to remain childless. Even though Jonica is going through her own struggles, she embraces Staci and helps Staci with the aftershocks in her marriage after her husband discovers she had an abortion. The two women become friends and their families also become friends. God gives Staci a second chance and blesses her with another child and Jonica finally deals with the fact she can’t have children and focuses on the other gifts God has bestowed upon her. I really enjoy this faith based novel.
I would definitely recommend this book to people contemplating abortions and people who are childless.
Jonica is at her lowest because as a Christian she can’t understand while God allows her to remain childless. Even though Jonica is going through her own struggles, she embraces Staci and helps Staci with the aftershocks in her marriage after her husband discovers she had an abortion. The two women become friends and their families also become friends. God gives Staci a second chance and blesses her with another child and Jonica finally deals with the fact she can’t have children and focuses on the other gifts God has bestowed upon her. I really enjoy this faith based novel.
I would definitely recommend this book to people contemplating abortions and people who are childless.
June 1, 2013
I really enjoyed this story. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I had people ( in the church) who asked me the same question! One also wanted to know if I had any unconfessed sin in my life! I realize people who haven't walked in your shoes sometimes don't know what to say. I don't think most of them intend to be hurtful. My answer," the rain falls on the just and the unjust." It's not the circumstance that molds us as much as our response to it. The author takes a very close look at two different women facing two different challenges. One is a Christian. The other is not. But the invisible bond of sisterhood begins to take over as these two form an unlikely friendship. Both characters seem real. They are not perfect. They both love and hurt and get angry. The story of redemption is woven throughout the book in a very natural way. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story. It's hard to find good Christian fiction. This book hits the mark.
August 27, 2012
For me Rain Dance was deeply touching and spiritually profound. I can’t remember the last time I’ve read something so insightful. While this story spotlights two young women and the separate struggles they go through, one dealing with the aftermath of an abortion, the other with infertility, it’s much more than that. It’s also about friendship born out of sorrow, regret, and even anger. For Christians it’s about walking the walk and not just spouting rhetoric without love.
I’ve never dealt with either of these very personal and heartbreaking situations, but it didn’t keep me from becoming completely immersed in the lives of these very true-to-life characters. The author did a tremendous job of putting the reader right into the minds and hearts of each of these women, complete opposites in so many ways and yet very much the same in ones that matter most.
I’ve never dealt with either of these very personal and heartbreaking situations, but it didn’t keep me from becoming completely immersed in the lives of these very true-to-life characters. The author did a tremendous job of putting the reader right into the minds and hearts of each of these women, complete opposites in so many ways and yet very much the same in ones that matter most.
February 8, 2019
I liked the beginning, but it got a bit too "shove-the-message-down-their-throat" feeling toward the last half. It almost felt like one of those evangelical events... "accept Jesus and your life will be wonderful" things. I backpedal pretty quick when I encounter that. I am a rock-solid Christian and I do believe God does do miracles, and faith and relationship will comfort, but I don't think this book quite captured the emotional turmoil infertile women deal with and it seemed a bit unrealistic. I don't know if a woman can ever come to terms with the burden Jonica seems to accept at the end - and even rejoice in it. I guess as "a Jonica" I found lots of interactions accurate but others absolutely absurd.
February 16, 2014
I applaud DeKok for the naked, honest emotions her characters displayed. She didn't try to soften Jonica's railing at God, nor Stacie's self-centeredness. I found Jonica's faith to be very real and practical. Her journey to healing and Stacie's path to faith were both believable, and not something manipulated by the author. They are women from different backgrounds and belief systems when they meet. And yet, I believed the friendship that grew between them. I came to love Stacie as much as Jonica.
Rain Dance is truly a prodigious book. It bears healing within its pages for hurting women, whether they are scarred by post abortion syndrome or infertility, Rain Dance is a must read. But be sure to have a hankie handy. Novel Reviews and I give it a very high recommendation: 4 ½ stars.
Rain Dance is truly a prodigious book. It bears healing within its pages for hurting women, whether they are scarred by post abortion syndrome or infertility, Rain Dance is a must read. But be sure to have a hankie handy. Novel Reviews and I give it a very high recommendation: 4 ½ stars.
July 3, 2012
This was a very good, interesting read. It is about the unlikely friendship between a woman struggling with infertility and a woman who has an abortion. This delves into the depths of emotions experienced by both women as they struggle with the pain by their circumstances. This book does a great job of helping those of us who have never dealt with these issues to see what they deal with, and how in many ways we unconsciously cause hurt. It made me more aware of how important it is to show Jesus' love to everyone. And of course, reading this made me want to go hug my sons, to be eternally grateful for the blessing that God has given me in allowing me to be a mother.
June 25, 2013
This book had the most relatable characters I have spent time with lately! While a Christian fiction book, the characters do not live in the "Christian bubble". They ride motorcycles and wear leather *gasp!* and life isn't all roses for them. It wasn't totally predictable, either, which is always a plus for me. And it wasn't a book that ended with everyone coming to Christ and living happily ever after. Stacie's dad....well, I won't ruin anything for anyone. A must read for people who cannot conceive, have had abortions, or are looking to confirm that no matter where you are in life....God is right there.
September 29, 2014
This book tells the story of two women who meet while waiting to see their gynaecologist , one to stop her treatment for infertility and the other to request an abortion.
They somehow manage to build a relationship built on mutual support and trust as neither can get it from those around them.
I did enjoy this book which covers important issues both for the church and wider society. However the premise is flawed in that it's hard to believe the way it pans out at times. It is very American in places, so readers should be aware of this.
These are important issues and deserve more coverage, so congratulations to the author to covering them.
They somehow manage to build a relationship built on mutual support and trust as neither can get it from those around them.
I did enjoy this book which covers important issues both for the church and wider society. However the premise is flawed in that it's hard to believe the way it pans out at times. It is very American in places, so readers should be aware of this.
These are important issues and deserve more coverage, so congratulations to the author to covering them.
August 12, 2012
This book has such a Bible background it's amazing. The way the author used the Bible verses to reveal many answers to the characters allows it to be helpful to other women and men who read it. It has a very clenching story line and the longer you read, the more you want to read. It is filled with scripture and biblical principles and the characters are easy to relate to in their day to day lives. It was informative yet thought provoking. Helpful and encouraging. A must read for anyone struggling with abortion (pre or post) or infertility.
July 3, 2013
This was such a good book. I am totally against abortion but this book made me realize what some women who chose to have one, go through after its done. It gave me insight into what pain and guilt some suffer with. The way Jonica was able to love Stacy when she herself wasn't able to have children was amazing. It showed the impact of loving someone through Christ. I had no idea this book would be so good. But it made me want to be more like Jonica because the love she displayed through Christ is what made a difference in all the character's.
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