Interesting idea for a book and fairly well written. An invention that should solve many problems in the world, turns into something else. Decent characters and story. Some romance, action, mystery in the story. Overall not a bad read.

I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.

3.5 stars rounded up. This book had an interesting premise. It was believable and interesting to see how an invention that should help the world turned into something much more dystopian. The dynamic between the two main characters was interesting and greatly reminded me of Needy and Jennifer's complicated dynamic in Jennifer's Body. There were definitely some heavy topics in this though so I would advise taking trigger warnings for child abuse and suicide into account before deciding whether to read this.

Pretty good. This has an interesting plot and characters, and I enjoyed the writing. I look forward to the author's future work.

Thanks very much for the free copy for review!!

I found the premise of The Rainmaker fascinating. A young woman, brilliant in a field that's non-traditional for women, designs a project that will provide water, irrigation and food for the starving poor of a (fictional) African country. For me the novel revolved around two themes - female friendship and the idea that Western technology can 'save' the third world from itself - but there are also strong themes of family dysfunction and, as the description says, the use and misuse of brilliant youth.
You follow the two protagonists from an initial mood of hope and optimism through to a darkening tangle of obstacles and real politik; you want them to succeed and you worry that they won't. I was really pulled in by the characters and the struggles of MJ and her aptly named (because of the messianic overtones) friend JC who heads up the great new fix-all project. I found the skulduggery and ulterior motives of the various players - local African politicians, international donors, etc - extremely believable. As always, Michael Martin's writing style is engaging, his scenarios well researched and convincing, and the issues he addresses are thought=provoking and meaningful.

I loved everything about this book. It offers romance, mystery and adventure all of which plays out inside a gorgeous world. I especially enjoyed the connection the characters had to the land and the living palace. Gread read!