The Sound of Rain | First Line Friday

Happy first line Friday!!! I get to share another first line with you, as well as a newly-released book. Sarah Loudin Thomas is a new-for-me author, and one that I'd like to revisit!

Now... I couldn't just stop at the first line. You get the whole first paragraph here, because her first chapter really was amazing!

Judd wanted to take a deep breath more than anything. But the weight on his chest, combined with the dust-laden air, made it impossible. He closed his eyes and opened them again, finding it made no difference. Either he was blind or the cave-in had erased any hint of light. He coughed and spit.

Have you read any books with coal miners?
(Gotta throw this in: or have you watched "When Calls the Heart"?! I love the coal mining parts!!!)
What is a first line (or paragraph ;) ) from a book you're reading?

Connecting with Hoarding Books for First Line Friday! Hop over and connect with your first line!

My Review

This book opens with a heartrending tragedy and continues as Judd attempts to pick up the pieces of his life and lives the dream his brother desired to live. Meanwhile, Larkin lives life full speed ahead, trying to follow what she believes God has called her to do.

The story seems to follow a realistic pattern more than a fiction pattern. It very much felt the era of the 1950’s. I did find it to be slow moving and without a real thrust of tension that moved the story forward—even during tragedies (which this book had a fair share of). That could likely be me, though.

Romance wasn’t highly prominent until the latter half of the book. I’ve just gotta say: I was impressed. Larkin actually prayed about whether or not “he is the one.” Usually it’s all “follow your heart,” so that little bit surprised and delighted me. There were kisses mentioned, but it didn’t feel sensual at all, just mentioned. And through it all, Judd showed honor to Larkin’s dad, even though he was difficult to deal with. I can admire the romance portrayed in this book.

Spiritual content had its ups and downs. Ben was very knowledgeable in the Bible and quoted several verses. The other characters seemed to have a nominal understanding of the Bible and what was right to do. At the same time, Larkin’s blatant dishonoring of her dad and going behind his back somewhat disturbed me. It definitely fits her personality, and was halfway dealt with, but it was more of a “things changed, so thus what she did wasn’t exactly wrong.” And I still never got where Judd stood with his relationship with God. He didn’t go to church until it was to impress/be with a girl. He had good morals, but it wasn’t because of his relationship with God. Also, the only mention that went anywhere near salvation was when a granny was asking about “Do you think I’ll see them again?” and Larkin assured her that she was certain she would, but there was nothing mentioned about whether or not she had received Jesus Christ as her personal Savior (and the only way to Heaven). So, there seemed to be spiritual content in this book, it was just somewhat vague and shallow with some dips at leaning toward strong.

*I received this book from Bethany House and happily provided my honest review*