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Chambers of the Heart #1
When it Raynes
Rayne Amber Storm finds her serenity on the waters of her Louisiana bayou, where she can let her thoughts be her own among the moss-covered cypress trees. Slowly, a gentle, insistent ripple of difference stirs within her. A ripple that leads her away from her mother's Southern Baptist values to thoughts that betray the very core of what she believes is right and wrong.
She leaves the protection of the bayou for medical school and lets the ripple grow until she is knocked unsteady by a powerful wave in the charismatic Samantha LeJeune. But when tragedy strikes back home, the pull of cross currents traps Rayne in what seems an insurmountable struggle between her heart, which now knows the true meaning of happiness, and doing what she has been taught all her life.
Is she strong enough to keep navigating through unfamiliar but thrilling waters or will she give in and paddle down the path of least resistance?
She leaves the protection of the bayou for medical school and lets the ripple grow until she is knocked unsteady by a powerful wave in the charismatic Samantha LeJeune. But when tragedy strikes back home, the pull of cross currents traps Rayne in what seems an insurmountable struggle between her heart, which now knows the true meaning of happiness, and doing what she has been taught all her life.
Is she strong enough to keep navigating through unfamiliar but thrilling waters or will she give in and paddle down the path of least resistance?
268 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2015
44 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
About the author
C.D. Cain
6 books72 followersCd Cain began her writing adventure a couple of years ago when a story she felt needed to be told awakened in her soul. She had always loved the beauty and culture of the Louisiana bayou which she once called home. So it was here that she began the Chambers of the Heart series. Her goal was to tell the realistic story of a woman accepting who she was among the strict traditions and beliefs of her southern home. She hopes readers will feel the emotions of a woman coming to terms with her own sexuality as well as the effect it will have on her relationship with those closest to her. Throughout the series her characters will face the trials of life…some successful, some not so much. At the end of each book, Cd hopes she has captured the feelings to such a degree that the reader is left with their own sense of accomplishment and strength in whatever trials they too faced and conquered. It’s important to her to convey through her writing that we each face struggles in being who we fundamentally are and that we are all the same when it comes to living life’s journey.
Cd is a transplant to South Georgia from Louisiana. Beyond writing, she enjoys spending time outdoors especially if this is on her porch with a nice smooth red. She always loves to hear from her readers and is available through: Twitter (@cdcain1019), Facebook (C.d. Cain), Goodreads (Cdcain), email (cdcain1019@yahoo.com) or on her webpage www.cdcainauthor.com.
Cd is a transplant to South Georgia from Louisiana. Beyond writing, she enjoys spending time outdoors especially if this is on her porch with a nice smooth red. She always loves to hear from her readers and is available through: Twitter (@cdcain1019), Facebook (C.d. Cain), Goodreads (Cdcain), email (cdcain1019@yahoo.com) or on her webpage www.cdcainauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 15, 2016
Unpopular opinion time! Brace yourselves!
Rayne Amber Storm is a recent graduate with a bachelor’s in biology, on a summer break at home in Louisiana before starting medical school. She spends her days with her beloved Meemaw while dodging her mother’s schemes to marry her off. Throughout the narrative, Rayne is struggling with her self-identity and how she fits in the world, but nothing seems to ever grow from that, and a satisfactory resolution to these issues is missing. She’s questioning her sexuality and relationships, but she’s passive in how she handles both. The secondary characters are poorly developed, Grant in particular. He serves as a one-dimensional obstacle without the benefit of interesting characteristics. In addition, Rayne seems to have trouble communicating her feelings, which stagnated many of the interactions in the book for me. However, I liked Meemaw the most (even with her inconsistent dialogue).
Overall, the writing itself is problematic, particularly in the overly flowery language that lacks execution and comes across as nonsensical metaphors.
If you want to read my full review, feel free to head over to C-Spot Reviews.
Rayne Amber Storm is a recent graduate with a bachelor’s in biology, on a summer break at home in Louisiana before starting medical school. She spends her days with her beloved Meemaw while dodging her mother’s schemes to marry her off. Throughout the narrative, Rayne is struggling with her self-identity and how she fits in the world, but nothing seems to ever grow from that, and a satisfactory resolution to these issues is missing. She’s questioning her sexuality and relationships, but she’s passive in how she handles both. The secondary characters are poorly developed, Grant in particular. He serves as a one-dimensional obstacle without the benefit of interesting characteristics. In addition, Rayne seems to have trouble communicating her feelings, which stagnated many of the interactions in the book for me. However, I liked Meemaw the most (even with her inconsistent dialogue).
Overall, the writing itself is problematic, particularly in the overly flowery language that lacks execution and comes across as nonsensical metaphors.
If you want to read my full review, feel free to head over to C-Spot Reviews.
July 22, 2016
Full disclosure: I was fortunate to be chosen to be a beta reader for Ms. Cain's debut novel.
I've yet to read the final draft but I was impressed with how effective C.d. was at bringing the south to life in the mind of this northern reader. I enjoyed the whole southern dynamic and colourful characters in this story. Rayne's Memaw and mother stand out as characters I will never forget. They brought the South to life and added humour and heart to this novel of awakening.
The author's prose often read like poetry and while I am not the biggest fan of "to be continued" reads, I'm looking forward to seeing what paths Rayne chooses in her future. I'm also looking forward to watching Ms. Cain grow as an author after this strong start to her writing career.
I've yet to read the final draft but I was impressed with how effective C.d. was at bringing the south to life in the mind of this northern reader. I enjoyed the whole southern dynamic and colourful characters in this story. Rayne's Memaw and mother stand out as characters I will never forget. They brought the South to life and added humour and heart to this novel of awakening.
The author's prose often read like poetry and while I am not the biggest fan of "to be continued" reads, I'm looking forward to seeing what paths Rayne chooses in her future. I'm also looking forward to watching Ms. Cain grow as an author after this strong start to her writing career.
August 4, 2015
I have really enjoyed reading works by new authors willing to break the conventional mold and Ms. Cain’s book, When it Raynes (the first book in the Chambers of the Heart series), doesn’t disappoint. I finished this book a while back and have been trying to find the words to describe what makes it different than the gazillion other lesbian romances.
Starting off, the placement of the story is important. I once read that everything in Louisiana is about layers. This is a concept I understand, having been born and raised in the Deep South. But what characterizes the South hardly walks the line with what characterizes the deeper territories of small town Louisiana. Clearly and correctly a world apart. With the rest of the South, it shares layers of race, class, beauty, grievous injustice, individual kindness, and the irony of simultaneously loving and resenting generations of tradition. Then there’s the wide-gapped differences such as the French-Catholic influences, laissez-faire attitudes, celebrating at funerals and belief in the supernatural. To live within these layers is to be a true Louisianan and Ms. Cain clearly inhabits this space.
I think what makes this book click, is that the two main protagonists are juxtaposed in their sameness, yet blinded to it. Rayne is an introvert who seeks comfort in planning her life with precision. Her curious, adventurous and fearless core; however, betrays that mission but is luckily nurtured by her grandmother (Memaw), yet conflicted by a family (primarily her mother, who she disrespectfully refers to as Charlie Grace) chained to external values. As Memaw says about Rayne’s mother, “She prizes her happiness as what others be thinking of her. She gets her happiness picturing what ’em people think of her. What she sees of herself through their eyes . . .not her own”. This strikes a personal chord with me… but I digress. Samantha (Sam) is a gregarious extrovert with a cautious, tender, sensitive heart that hardly sees the light of day as a result of family neglect mired in meaningless lip service disguised as affection. They both are untethered (or wrongly tethered) and remain so throughout the book. It’s as if they are each other’s dock cleats afraid to rope in.
The end result is a story of two women with irresistible chemistry for the person of their dreams, who fail to trust their instincts enough to embrace good fortune. As some part of this finally seeps through Rayne’s consciousness she realizes, “Don’t you know I feel everything you feel for me when we kiss. It’s like . . . it’s like I’m a part of you when we kiss. It has been like that from our very first kiss. I’ve never felt this before. I know you care for me too. I know you do.”
Maybe it seeps through … maybe not.
The actual ending is intentionally left open for the sequel and I am dying (!!!) to know which way this one is going to tip. I know in my heart which way it should, but those Louisianans can be a tricky bunch to predict without tarot cards or a fortune teller.
I could see everything, feel everything, and hear each character’s voice clearly and the story did indeed go “by so quick you can hardly catch it going”. Kudos, Ms. Cain, this was a great read, and sweet romance! I’m looking forward to so much more from you in the future!
Starting off, the placement of the story is important. I once read that everything in Louisiana is about layers. This is a concept I understand, having been born and raised in the Deep South. But what characterizes the South hardly walks the line with what characterizes the deeper territories of small town Louisiana. Clearly and correctly a world apart. With the rest of the South, it shares layers of race, class, beauty, grievous injustice, individual kindness, and the irony of simultaneously loving and resenting generations of tradition. Then there’s the wide-gapped differences such as the French-Catholic influences, laissez-faire attitudes, celebrating at funerals and belief in the supernatural. To live within these layers is to be a true Louisianan and Ms. Cain clearly inhabits this space.
I think what makes this book click, is that the two main protagonists are juxtaposed in their sameness, yet blinded to it. Rayne is an introvert who seeks comfort in planning her life with precision. Her curious, adventurous and fearless core; however, betrays that mission but is luckily nurtured by her grandmother (Memaw), yet conflicted by a family (primarily her mother, who she disrespectfully refers to as Charlie Grace) chained to external values. As Memaw says about Rayne’s mother, “She prizes her happiness as what others be thinking of her. She gets her happiness picturing what ’em people think of her. What she sees of herself through their eyes . . .not her own”. This strikes a personal chord with me… but I digress. Samantha (Sam) is a gregarious extrovert with a cautious, tender, sensitive heart that hardly sees the light of day as a result of family neglect mired in meaningless lip service disguised as affection. They both are untethered (or wrongly tethered) and remain so throughout the book. It’s as if they are each other’s dock cleats afraid to rope in.
The end result is a story of two women with irresistible chemistry for the person of their dreams, who fail to trust their instincts enough to embrace good fortune. As some part of this finally seeps through Rayne’s consciousness she realizes, “Don’t you know I feel everything you feel for me when we kiss. It’s like . . . it’s like I’m a part of you when we kiss. It has been like that from our very first kiss. I’ve never felt this before. I know you care for me too. I know you do.”
Maybe it seeps through … maybe not.
The actual ending is intentionally left open for the sequel and I am dying (!!!) to know which way this one is going to tip. I know in my heart which way it should, but those Louisianans can be a tricky bunch to predict without tarot cards or a fortune teller.
I could see everything, feel everything, and hear each character’s voice clearly and the story did indeed go “by so quick you can hardly catch it going”. Kudos, Ms. Cain, this was a great read, and sweet romance! I’m looking forward to so much more from you in the future!
June 23, 2017
PERFECT!
This is one hell of a read. And can't believe I've not come across this sooner. Its just jam packed full of emotions. Each turn of the page you want more and more... and at some point, you feel so engrossed in the book, you find yourself getting irritated and cross, even tho you still love the characters everything is just so well described and you can tell the whole story as been thought through, and you feel like you no these characters.
This book, is up there with my favorites.
This is one hell of a read. And can't believe I've not come across this sooner. Its just jam packed full of emotions. Each turn of the page you want more and more... and at some point, you feel so engrossed in the book, you find yourself getting irritated and cross, even tho you still love the characters everything is just so well described and you can tell the whole story as been thought through, and you feel like you no these characters.
This book, is up there with my favorites.
February 14, 2017
OMG
If I could I would have given this 10 stars. I loved the relationship between Rayne and Memaw. That relationship remind me of my great grandmother and me. When reading this I felt like I was there in the Bayou. This whole book was written beautifully. I would definitely recommend this book. Off to read part two.
If I could I would have given this 10 stars. I loved the relationship between Rayne and Memaw. That relationship remind me of my great grandmother and me. When reading this I felt like I was there in the Bayou. This whole book was written beautifully. I would definitely recommend this book. Off to read part two.
January 15, 2016
Really good book. A lot of sad books don't bring tears to my eyes but some do ,and this one falls in the latter category. But it's not all sadness. There's plenty of humor, quite a bit of angst from the main character (totally concur) and great descriptive verses of the South. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series....Ms. Cain, I hope you're almost done with it ;-)
March 31, 2019
I loved this book. I loved it the first time and loved it even more with the rewrite! All the things that made me so mad the first time around are better this time. I loved that Rayne is a much more active partcipant in her own life this time around. The ending is killing me though!! I hope the author is forthcoming with the next installment!!
March 23, 2020
This is a great book. And for me, it hits mighty close to home. I was born and raised in Louisiana and my parents were staunch southern baptists. So I relate to Rayne in many ways. I found myself getting irritated with Rayne because she’s in such denial. Then I reminded myself I went so far as to marry a man. Thank goodness I finally realized that the things I was taught weren’t all true and that my God is a loving one. I sure as hell hope it’s getting easier for young women to be who they are. But man, did this book take me back. Can’t wait to see what happens in the second.
July 7, 2015
Finally got around to posting this review because I needed time to recover from how close this book hit home for me. Being raised in Utah, and a very religious community, I needed this book. It's not everyday that I feel like the author was writing specifically for me to read.
I'm not going to do a summary of the book in my review. The summary in the description does wonderful justice. One thing I loved about this book is that it wasn't rushed. I loved the details about the surroundings and each character. The scene was so brilliantly painted, it made falling in love with this book easy from the start. The dialogue between characters is real. It's honest. It's not sped up or altered from what a normal interaction would be like in real life from someone dealing with Rayne's feelings. It's real. It pulled me in so deep that at times, I literally looked up and was shocked at how much time had passed, I was that engrossed in reading.
I cried. I laughed. I related a little too much to Rayne, and honestly, it opened my eyes. Anyone who is waging an internal battle with feelings for someone when you've been taught all your life it's not okay to feel that way, needs to read this book.
I seriously can't wait for the next installment of this series.
I'm not going to do a summary of the book in my review. The summary in the description does wonderful justice. One thing I loved about this book is that it wasn't rushed. I loved the details about the surroundings and each character. The scene was so brilliantly painted, it made falling in love with this book easy from the start. The dialogue between characters is real. It's honest. It's not sped up or altered from what a normal interaction would be like in real life from someone dealing with Rayne's feelings. It's real. It pulled me in so deep that at times, I literally looked up and was shocked at how much time had passed, I was that engrossed in reading.
I cried. I laughed. I related a little too much to Rayne, and honestly, it opened my eyes. Anyone who is waging an internal battle with feelings for someone when you've been taught all your life it's not okay to feel that way, needs to read this book.
I seriously can't wait for the next installment of this series.
December 24, 2016
I loved this! I read it awhile ago and just realized I never rated/reviewed. I loved the setting of this book as I was raised in this area and even started my own vareer at the very same hospital setting. Anyway....I thought the author did a great job in depicting the mentality of the deep south. There was a lot of flowery prose, however, believe me...southerners have a lot to say!
July 3, 2015
Beautifully told, "When It Raynes" pulls you into the complicated and conflicted heart of Rayne. To tell you anything more would ruin the story for you.
A well written story that will make you laugh, cry and leave you wanting more.
C.d Cain is a gifted story teller and author. I will eagerly await the next in what I hope to be a long and successful series.
A well written story that will make you laugh, cry and leave you wanting more.
C.d Cain is a gifted story teller and author. I will eagerly await the next in what I hope to be a long and successful series.
June 19, 2020
What a beautiful and emotional read. All the characters were well developed except maybe Charlie Grace. I didn't really understand the division between mother and daughter. It was clear that Charlie Grace loved her daughter but had trouble showing it at times. Maybe it will become more clear in future books. But at least Rayne had Memaw to comfort her. The love story between Rayne and Sam was so very compelling. It kept me turning pages well into the night. However, I was losing patience with Rayne's continued hesitation to commit to a relationship with the one she truly loved.
March 21, 2019
man, this was a great read. Easy 5 stars.
okay,on to the next.
okay,on to the next.
April 30, 2016
You know sometimes when you read a new book by a new author and just get swept away? CD Cain’s first book, and the beginning of a four part series, is a classic in the making. I literally can’t wait for book two.
Set in the south with the delightful backdrop of the Louisiana bayou and a real southern belle family setting, “When it Raynes” brings its location to life. The mannerisms, speech and habits of the family we meet create a deep and solid canvas for the authors exploration of relationships.
The main characters, Rayne and Memaw, are wonderful creations. Between them, Sam and the other ladies of the house, we have a wide array of powerful women characters who literally warm the heart. The few men we spend any time with seem like cyphers in comparison. CD Cain has a gift for expressing the feelings of her cast through both language and physical reaction. Without ever feeling she is telling you a tale the characters themselves speak from the page.
This really is a classic, slow and generous with its time like the waters flowing past Raynes hideaway, don’t expect to be rushed anywhere. Feelings, hopes, dreams and actions take their time to develop and the author deepens and explores the relationships between her cast as the plot slowly unfolds. The writing is almost poetic at times, and simply flows.
Be warned though - it has a major cliffhanger which has clearly annoyed a number of readers - as they point out the arc of the story is presumably across the series. For me that didn't detract from excellent writing, a wonderfully evocative setting, an interesting 'will she wont she' romance and characters I would love to meet.
When the next one comes out in May I may just have to find the time to re-read this to savour the pleasure all over again. Excellent first novel and seriously one to watch.
Set in the south with the delightful backdrop of the Louisiana bayou and a real southern belle family setting, “When it Raynes” brings its location to life. The mannerisms, speech and habits of the family we meet create a deep and solid canvas for the authors exploration of relationships.
The main characters, Rayne and Memaw, are wonderful creations. Between them, Sam and the other ladies of the house, we have a wide array of powerful women characters who literally warm the heart. The few men we spend any time with seem like cyphers in comparison. CD Cain has a gift for expressing the feelings of her cast through both language and physical reaction. Without ever feeling she is telling you a tale the characters themselves speak from the page.
This really is a classic, slow and generous with its time like the waters flowing past Raynes hideaway, don’t expect to be rushed anywhere. Feelings, hopes, dreams and actions take their time to develop and the author deepens and explores the relationships between her cast as the plot slowly unfolds. The writing is almost poetic at times, and simply flows.
Be warned though - it has a major cliffhanger which has clearly annoyed a number of readers - as they point out the arc of the story is presumably across the series. For me that didn't detract from excellent writing, a wonderfully evocative setting, an interesting 'will she wont she' romance and characters I would love to meet.
When the next one comes out in May I may just have to find the time to re-read this to savour the pleasure all over again. Excellent first novel and seriously one to watch.
August 11, 2015
For over a month now this book has followed me... It sneaks into my mind when I'm not expecting. Little clips of episodes that were painted perfectly, like a flashback to a dream.
C.D. has wrote a wonderful book. The ebb and flow of young life is captured with all its brilliance and pain. A story that is not of far fetched happenings, but day to day life. Which are the best stories of all.
C.D. has wrote a wonderful book. The ebb and flow of young life is captured with all its brilliance and pain. A story that is not of far fetched happenings, but day to day life. Which are the best stories of all.
March 29, 2020
Absolutely amazing! I couldnt put it down ! The story the characters the setting all resonated with me ! I fell completely in love with every detail and every character.
From Rayne to Samantha to meemaw and flossie love love love !
From Rayne to Samantha to meemaw and flossie love love love !
June 18, 2025
I have been sitting here for weeks feeling the need to write a review for “When It Raynes” but wanting the words to come to me to express just what this book has meant to me. I have finally come to the realization that I am not a talented enough writer or good enough at sharing my feelings to do it justice... that’s why I read books written by talented authors like CD Cain!
I don’t want to share spoilers or ruin the book for anyone; it’s too good to do that type of injustice! I just want to share that this book will make you feel. This book will wrap you up in the character’s lives… so be prepared to focus on nothing else until the book is over, and then to want to read the book from start to finish again as soon as you finish.
This is the story of Rayne’s journey of discovering a big part of who she is - falling in love but then not allowing herself to experience love because of fear of not being “normal” and not being “accepted” and going against everything she was taught by Charlie Grace and her religion. CD Cain tells this story with such insight, such truthfulness that any woman who has ever questioned accepting being a lesbian should be required to read this book so they can learn that they are not alone, that the feelings, fears and thoughts they are having are shared by many women who are learning to accept themselves for who they are.
This book speaks to me in ways no other book I have ever read has. The characters are so real, so well developed and so human – I fell in love with them. Throughout the book you will laugh with them, cry with them, feel their anxiety and their fears... Somebody put in a review I read that the characters were so real she felt like she could run into them at the grocery store… I echo that sentiment completely.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for an amazingly well written, funny, sad, and just plain GREAT story. Just be warned, the next book in the series doesn’t come out until 2016, so you will be left counting down the days to read more of CD Cain’s writing, and more of Rayne’s story.
I don’t want to share spoilers or ruin the book for anyone; it’s too good to do that type of injustice! I just want to share that this book will make you feel. This book will wrap you up in the character’s lives… so be prepared to focus on nothing else until the book is over, and then to want to read the book from start to finish again as soon as you finish.
This is the story of Rayne’s journey of discovering a big part of who she is - falling in love but then not allowing herself to experience love because of fear of not being “normal” and not being “accepted” and going against everything she was taught by Charlie Grace and her religion. CD Cain tells this story with such insight, such truthfulness that any woman who has ever questioned accepting being a lesbian should be required to read this book so they can learn that they are not alone, that the feelings, fears and thoughts they are having are shared by many women who are learning to accept themselves for who they are.
This book speaks to me in ways no other book I have ever read has. The characters are so real, so well developed and so human – I fell in love with them. Throughout the book you will laugh with them, cry with them, feel their anxiety and their fears... Somebody put in a review I read that the characters were so real she felt like she could run into them at the grocery store… I echo that sentiment completely.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for an amazingly well written, funny, sad, and just plain GREAT story. Just be warned, the next book in the series doesn’t come out until 2016, so you will be left counting down the days to read more of CD Cain’s writing, and more of Rayne’s story.
October 29, 2020
When it Raynes, by C.D. Cain
When Rayne Amber Storm decided to go study her medicine in Alabama, she was far from guessing that she would find more than medical knowledge there. That she would find parts of herself she doubted existed but had buried far away. Will she be strong enough to face the changes that discovery brings?
Grab your copy of When it Raynes, either Audio on Audible or E-book on Kindle. You will not regret it.
When it Raynes is the first part of a three-book (..so far.. ) series, to which the last book is still unpublished. Most times I say they can be read or listened to as standalone, but after the first one, you will probably end up like me, buying the rest of the series since it is just THAT good and since the characters are so well written that you have to follow their story, their journey.
I was gifted an Audiobook and I can't even say thank you enough for that gift. It made me discover such an amazing author and characters that are making this book (and the complete series) a page-turner. I even bought the e-book, so I’d have the complete collection.
It has been a while since a book grabbed my attention as much as the writing is so good that it makes the audio version flow perfectly. I keep a close hope that the author will have the three remaining books turned into Audiobooks as well. In the meantime, I’ll go back to re-listening to ‘’When it Raynes’’ for the third time in the last week or so, while you go ahead and grab your copy.
The reviews of the next two books will come soon.
This book deserves way more than the 5 stars allowed.
@RainbowMReviews
RainbowMoose’s Reviews
When Rayne Amber Storm decided to go study her medicine in Alabama, she was far from guessing that she would find more than medical knowledge there. That she would find parts of herself she doubted existed but had buried far away. Will she be strong enough to face the changes that discovery brings?
Grab your copy of When it Raynes, either Audio on Audible or E-book on Kindle. You will not regret it.
When it Raynes is the first part of a three-book (..so far.. ) series, to which the last book is still unpublished. Most times I say they can be read or listened to as standalone, but after the first one, you will probably end up like me, buying the rest of the series since it is just THAT good and since the characters are so well written that you have to follow their story, their journey.
I was gifted an Audiobook and I can't even say thank you enough for that gift. It made me discover such an amazing author and characters that are making this book (and the complete series) a page-turner. I even bought the e-book, so I’d have the complete collection.
It has been a while since a book grabbed my attention as much as the writing is so good that it makes the audio version flow perfectly. I keep a close hope that the author will have the three remaining books turned into Audiobooks as well. In the meantime, I’ll go back to re-listening to ‘’When it Raynes’’ for the third time in the last week or so, while you go ahead and grab your copy.
The reviews of the next two books will come soon.
This book deserves way more than the 5 stars allowed.
@RainbowMReviews
RainbowMoose’s Reviews
August 13, 2015
I'm absolutely in love with this book! As someone who loves coming out/best friends fall in love stories, as well as someone who's lived one, this story hit home. I couldn't put the book down and finished it in hours. I love the style and intricate details that really set the stage. One of my favorite things was the age of the characters. It's not often you can find a good mix between not crazy erotica and not prude young adult. This was the perfect balance and incredibly sensual in a not obnoxious way.
I loved the characters and how you really get to know each one. It took me awhile to get used to the southern culture of the book but it was endearing and made it unique.
Unfortunately, I didnt realize this was only a part one book and was left incredibly frustrated and anxious when I flipped the page to find it was done. But that just shows how great of a read this was.
My only qualm would be that you literally have no idea what the main character looks like until more than halfway in the book. In the beginning you're only given dirty blonde/light brown hair and the fact that the mom and grandma have blue eyes...that's it. It made it a little difficult when really trying to picture it. Albeit when you do find out, it's in a very cute way.
MUST READ!!! CD Cain, please keep at it!
I loved the characters and how you really get to know each one. It took me awhile to get used to the southern culture of the book but it was endearing and made it unique.
Unfortunately, I didnt realize this was only a part one book and was left incredibly frustrated and anxious when I flipped the page to find it was done. But that just shows how great of a read this was.
My only qualm would be that you literally have no idea what the main character looks like until more than halfway in the book. In the beginning you're only given dirty blonde/light brown hair and the fact that the mom and grandma have blue eyes...that's it. It made it a little difficult when really trying to picture it. Albeit when you do find out, it's in a very cute way.
MUST READ!!! CD Cain, please keep at it!
March 13, 2020
WOW ... JUST WOW. THIS IS A NEW AUTHOR FOR ME AND THIS BOOK BLOW ME AWAY. AT FIRST IT TOOK ME A FEW CHAPTERS TO GET INTO THE STORY (ABOUT 20%) BUT AFTER THAT I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. IT TOOK ME LONGER TO READ THE FIRST 20% OF THE BOOK THAN IT TOOK TO READ THE REST OF IT, BUT, I AM GLAD I STUCK WITH IT AS THIS BOOK IS MY ALL TIME FAVOURITE.
THE STORY LINE WAS GREAT BUT FOR ME IT WAS THE CHARACTERS THAT KEPT ME TURNING THE PAGE. RAYNE AND SAM WHERE GREAT CHARACTERS THAT HAD GREAT CHEMISTRY FROM THE MOMENT THEY MET BUT FOR ME THE CHARACTER THAT WAS MY ALL TIME FAVOURITE FROM ANY BOOK THAT I HAVE READ HAS TO BE MEMAW (RAYNE'S GRANDMOTHER). WHAT A FANTASTIC CHARACTER, SHE WAS DELIGHTFUL AND CHARMING WOMAN WHO COULD MAKE ANYONE LAUGH. SHE WAS JUST THE BEST AND SOMEONE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO BE IN THE COMPANY OF ALL THE TIME.
THIS IS ALSO THE ONLY BOOK THAT HAS HAD ME IN TEARS AT THE END OF A BOOK AND I HAVE READ THOUSANDS OVER THE YEARS. THE BOOK IS SO WELL WRITTEN AND KEEP YOU TURNING THE PAGE.
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND READING THIS ONE. THIS IS BOOK ONE IN THE SERIES. I DON'T KNOW IF MY HEART COULD TAKE TO READING THE OTHER TWO BOOKS IN THE SERIES.
THE STORY LINE WAS GREAT BUT FOR ME IT WAS THE CHARACTERS THAT KEPT ME TURNING THE PAGE. RAYNE AND SAM WHERE GREAT CHARACTERS THAT HAD GREAT CHEMISTRY FROM THE MOMENT THEY MET BUT FOR ME THE CHARACTER THAT WAS MY ALL TIME FAVOURITE FROM ANY BOOK THAT I HAVE READ HAS TO BE MEMAW (RAYNE'S GRANDMOTHER). WHAT A FANTASTIC CHARACTER, SHE WAS DELIGHTFUL AND CHARMING WOMAN WHO COULD MAKE ANYONE LAUGH. SHE WAS JUST THE BEST AND SOMEONE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO BE IN THE COMPANY OF ALL THE TIME.
THIS IS ALSO THE ONLY BOOK THAT HAS HAD ME IN TEARS AT THE END OF A BOOK AND I HAVE READ THOUSANDS OVER THE YEARS. THE BOOK IS SO WELL WRITTEN AND KEEP YOU TURNING THE PAGE.
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND READING THIS ONE. THIS IS BOOK ONE IN THE SERIES. I DON'T KNOW IF MY HEART COULD TAKE TO READING THE OTHER TWO BOOKS IN THE SERIES.
February 2, 2019
I was excited for an excuse to read this book again and could hardly wait for its release. The book is more intense this time around, and I couldn’t help but fall even more in love with the story and the characters. I could not put it down, and it has consumed my thoughts since finishing it. I immensely enjoyed getting to know Sam better. And as much as I loved Rayne in the first version, I liked her character even more in the revision.
I love the authors writing style - she manages to paint a scene so perfectly, I felt I was right there in the bayou with Rayne and memaw surrounded by cypress trees.
The struggles that Rayne faces with her feelings for Sam are believable..and likewise with how Sam deals with her feelings for Rayne. I was easily able to relate to both characters and understand what they’re going through.
I’m highly anticipating the revision of the second book and the release of the third book.
Thank you CD Cain for continuing the series.
I love the authors writing style - she manages to paint a scene so perfectly, I felt I was right there in the bayou with Rayne and memaw surrounded by cypress trees.
The struggles that Rayne faces with her feelings for Sam are believable..and likewise with how Sam deals with her feelings for Rayne. I was easily able to relate to both characters and understand what they’re going through.
I’m highly anticipating the revision of the second book and the release of the third book.
Thank you CD Cain for continuing the series.
March 2, 2020
This is a hard book to read for someone just learning about their feelings as an adult but it does put out there the mistakes that are made to be socially acceptable.
November 18, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! And I don't say that often! This book had my interest from beginning to end! And I wasn't sure just how it was going to end all the way through it. And I'm still wondering as I start the second book in the series. Rayne keeps Sam in stitches and guessing herself what the outcome will be. And Grant hasn't a clue what is going on the whole time. Quite frankly, I think he's a ditz and doesn't deserve any of Rayne's attention. I'm looking forward to seeing what will happen in the second round and finding out if Rayne finally realizes that following your heart is always the best thing to do, regardless of what others think.
February 12, 2020
Absolute Ripper
I have now read this book 3 times. This last time as a refresh after reading the recently released 3rd installment in this series.
The lives of all the main characters draws you in from the first page. Now to re download the 2nd book.
I'm sure I will read all 3 books again and again. Brilliant Ms Cain.
I have now read this book 3 times. This last time as a refresh after reading the recently released 3rd installment in this series.
The lives of all the main characters draws you in from the first page. Now to re download the 2nd book.
I'm sure I will read all 3 books again and again. Brilliant Ms Cain.
May 7, 2020
I don't know if I can do justice to how much I adored this book. Both the main and secondary characters are well written and nuanced and the bayou is a character in itself, so well described that I could almost taste and smell the landscape. There is a sensuality to this book in both the pacing and the language, and it requires an emotional investment from the reader. The developing friendship between Rayne and Sam followed by the longing, the confusion and societal expectations all combine in a heady experience that, quite simply I couldn't put down. A deserved 5 star read.
October 13, 2020
Holly mother....THIS IS BEST BOOK I'm done READING in 2020!!! I honestly could not stop reading (moving right a way to book 2) I'm totally in love with both Mcs and their struggles. I feel for Stormy so much and the issues she has....but Sam, she is totally perfect woman for her....now I really have to move to book 2.
January 14, 2016
CD is such a fantastically descriptive storyteller. I was right there with the characters in every setting. Missed getting 5 stars only because I got somewhat frustrated by how clueless the main character was throughout the book. I can't wait to finish the entire series!
January 7, 2019
Loved it.
Great story and I loved the characters in it. It had me laughing out loud so many times and had me in tears as well. I will definitely be putting it in with my favourite books to read again.
Great story and I loved the characters in it. It had me laughing out loud so many times and had me in tears as well. I will definitely be putting it in with my favourite books to read again.
February 15, 2019
I loved this book!
I loved this book! It made me laugh out loud.. Several times! My only negative is that I didn't realize this is a series and now, the other 2 books are unavailable!!! Shoot me now!
I loved this book! It made me laugh out loud.. Several times! My only negative is that I didn't realize this is a series and now, the other 2 books are unavailable!!! Shoot me now!
December 16, 2015
When It Raynes by C.D. Cain: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
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