Book Review: Out of the Rain

The first book in this series, The Umbrella Lady, enticed me.  They attribute these books to V. C. Andrews. In reality, her estate's writer, Andrew Neiderman, ghostwrote them (following story lines left behind after Andrews died). I expected a clean read. However, some compromising content appeared when I was too engaged to cast it aside without regret.

When Saffron Faith Anders was eight-years-old, her father abandoned her at a train station. The benevolent but sinister Umbrella Lady took her in. Now, at thirteen, Saffron departs from that train station intent upon finding her father. What she uncovers is a whole new kettle of worms. Her father, hesitant to disrupt his new family, forces Saffron to pose as his orphaned niece. Of course, the lies are based on shades of truth. Her mother died. She fled after the death of someone she loved. Her father had abandoned her. Is Saffron up for the starring role? Can she keep up the pretense to please her father?

I liked the first book, The Umbrella Lady, far more. This sequel continues with Saffron's tender voice. Wise beyond her years, spunky and determined, she filters every detail through her teenage eyes. She must win over a half-sister, who views her as competition, and deceive her daddy's second wife. I enjoyed Saffron in the first book. In the second book, I liked her less. The writing was adequate, but not outstanding enough to overlook the questionable content (unnecessary). I don't regret reading this sequel, but I'm not recommending it, either.

Content caution: 📒 - teens discussing intimate topics