Book Review: Dancing in the Rain by Jennifer Slattery

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Synopsis of the book:

On the verge of college graduation, Loni Parker seeks employment as a music teacher, but no one will hire her since she’s blind. Or so she thinks. To take her mind off her troubles, her roommate invites her to spring retreat at Camp Hope in the gorgeous North Carolina mountains. Unbeknownst to Loni, Michael Ackerman, the director, is an ex-con responsible for the accident that caused her blindness. When Loni warms up to camp and wants to return as a summer counselor, Michael opposes the idea, which only makes Loni want to prove herself all the more. Though she doesn’t expect to fall for the guy. Still, her need for independence and dream of teaching win out, taking her far away from her beloved Camp Hope . . . and a certain director.

Camp director Michael Ackerman recognizes Lonie instantly and wants to avoid her at all costs. Yet, despite the guilt pushing him from her, a growing attraction draws him to the determined woman. She sees more with her heart than the average person does with his eyes. But her presence also dredges up a long-buried anger toward his alcoholic father that he’d just as soon keep hidden. When circumstances spin out of control, Michael is forced to face a past that may destroy his present.

My review:

I love the way this author takes people that you do not often see as heroines in books and makes you wonder why it isn’t done more.

Such is the case with this book.

I was immediately intrigued by the premise of this story — the blind woman coming face to face with the man who took her sight and being attracted to him. It was the making of a good story. I thought this story delivered on romance and forgiveness.

It was so interesting getting to know Loni. There are so many things I take for granted having my sight. I really liked Loni’s independence and strength of character. She did get too focused on that independence, almost missing what God had in store for her, but I rooted for her to get back on the right path. She did.

Michael was the epitome of redemption, which I loved. He tangibly reminded me that we all need forgiveness. He was protective of his mother, had a heart for God, and loved Loni enough to let her be independent. I was gripped by the tension between Michael and his father. The end tied up their relationship a little too easily. I wanted to see more of the reconciliation between them.

I did feel that the time Loni spend away from Michael was a little sluggish – perhaps because I could see how clearly they belonged together. 🙂

Overall it was a good romance with interesting characters. Really good faith read.

What I enjoyed most about this book:

Reading how Loni, being blind, interacted with the world. So many interesting insights.

What I didn’t like about this book:

The end part with Michael and his father. I just wanted a little bit more time in their reconciliation.

My rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Would I recommend this book to others? Yes. If you want clean sweet romance with a nice faith message, this is the one for you.

Note: I received this book from the author. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.

Where can I learn more about this author and their books?

Jennifer Slattery, author website

-Loraine Nunley