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.

Kenneth Underwood and Isaac Walker want to rid themselves of the selfish, ungrateful women in their lives. Kenneth, a successful businessman, is planning to divorce Elizabeth, his wife of 7 years. Isaac, a man of the streets and Nina's former lover, has a more final solution to rid himself of his problem. But when the free gift of salvation is unexpectedly offered, will this wayward group allow the grace of God to heal and restore the shattered lives they have created, or are they forever destined to go through the storm?

Genres: Christian, Fiction, African American, Christian Fiction

304 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

About the author

Vanessa Miller is a USA Today bestselling author, whose prolific body of work spans over 50 titles that explore deep themes of redemption, resilience, and faith—often spotlighting strong Black women in pivotal moments of history.

Miller’s book, The American Queen won the prestigious Christy Award, the Audie Award and was the 2024 American Fiction Award winner for Historical Fiction. The American Queen was a North Carolina Reads pick for 2025 and an Alamance Countywide read for 2026 and Our State Magazine book club pick for February 2026.

Her novel, The Filling Station won the Oklahoma Book Award for fiction and was named one of Booklist’s Top Ten Historical Fictions of 2026. One of Library Journal’s Best Books of 2025 and A Booklist Editor’s Pick. It is a Positively Charlotte book club pick, an Oklahoma County Big Read and was an instant USA Today Bestseller.
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The American Queen has been featured in GMA, Washington Post and Essence Magazine roundups. The Ladies Hall has been featured in People Magazine as a cover reveal.

“Stirring… quintessential story of brave people fighting for what they know they
deserve.” [The American Queen]—Washington Post.

“This powerful story must be told and retold.” [The American Queen] –GMA.

“Miller captivates with a propulsive historical based on a true story.” –Publishers Weekly.

“A novel that should be required reading.” [The Filling Station] -Library Journal starred review.

“Absolutely Worthy.” - Booklist

Vanessa also wears the hats of playwright, motivational speaker and retreat host, channeling her storytelling gift across multiple creative platforms. She is currently published through HarperCollins/Thomas Nelson. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and family. She graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication and is currently in a MFA program at Queens University, graduating in 2027.

www.vanessamiller.com

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Reviews

[Jessica Dawn]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Amazing

[Zenobia Jordan]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

very very very good book

[Annie]

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]

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]

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

[Mserika]

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]

LOVED IT!!!

[Cf]

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]

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]

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]

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

[Escense]

loved it

[Marcia Lattimore]

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.