What do you think?
Rate this book
The Color of Rain
If there is one thing that seventeen-year-old Rain knows and knows well, it is survival. Caring for her little brother, Walker, who is "Touched," and losing the rest of her family to the same disease, Rain has long had to fend for herself on the bleak, dangerous streets of Earth City. When she looks to the stars, Rain sees escape and the only possible cure for Walker. And when a darkly handsome and mysterious captain named Johnny offers her passage to the Edge, Rain immediately boards his spaceship. Her only her "willingness." The Void cloaks many secrets, and Rain quickly discovers that Johnny's ship serves as host for an underground slave trade for the Touched . . . and a prostitution ring for Johnny's girls. With hair as red as the bracelet that indicates her status on the ship, the feeling of being a marked target is not helpful in Rain's quest to escape. Even worse, Rain is unsure if she will be able to pay the costs of love, family, hope, and self-preservation. With intergalactic twists and turns, Cori McCarthy's debut space thriller exists in an orbit of its own.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2013
About the author
Cory McCarthy
19 books348 followersCORY (previously Cori)
…earned degrees in poetry and screenwriting before falling in love with writing for children and young adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. They have authored four acclaimed YA novels, with a middle grade series, young adult contemporary, and nonfiction picture book forthcoming. Cory coauthored the bestselling ONCE & FUTURE, a finalist for the New England Book Award, with their spouse A.R. Capetta.
…earned degrees in poetry and screenwriting before falling in love with writing for children and young adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. They have authored four acclaimed YA novels, with a middle grade series, young adult contemporary, and nonfiction picture book forthcoming. Cory coauthored the bestselling ONCE & FUTURE, a finalist for the New England Book Award, with their spouse A.R. Capetta.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 15, 2013
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the Author at Book Expo America. No promise was made that I would review it or that if I did the review would be positive. I was not compensated in anyway for this review.
Review: The Color of Rain is a beautiful book. The cover, the writing, the heart. It’s lyrical, painful and impossible to step away from. Once you enter the world of Cori McCarthy’s writing, it will grip you and hold you tight. It will break your heart, lift you up and remake your concepts about humanity. I read this book in one day, unable to do anything else until I chased down the end of this fabulous story.
As much as I loved this book and I feel it’s a book that not only should be read, but must be read. I do not feel it’s appropriate for the YA label. This is not a comment on the writing and doesn’t effect my enjoyment, in fact it probably enhanced it, but if anyone is reading this review to consider purchasing, it’s important to know that the book is quite explicit. It’s justified, well written and provocative in it’s detail, but I would not rate it PG13. Definitely read the sample before purchasing for younger readers.
In reality though, that’s neither here nor there when it comes to the content of the book. The Color of Rain highlights, just how far you can sink. Even if you have the best of intentions. It’s also a stunning allegory on the corruptive nature of power. The Vale family’s abuse has been passed down generations and now onto all those they hold dominion over. Rain is a drop of water in their ocean of cruelty, but through her we learn just how twisted the human mind can be. The heartbreaking part. The part that makes this book different from others, is that as she struggles to hold onto her sense of self and honor, she feels the seductive pull of that twisting power and begins to succumb. And as we watch her, we understand.
The reader is taken through so much pain, so much abuse through the eyes of Rain, you completely understand why she hardens herself into the image of Johnny Vale.
The Color of Rain deals with issues of rape, power, prostitution, corruption, and intrigue. But in the end, its all about the abuse. The abuse the father of the Vale brothers set down upon his sons, the abuse of abandonment, the abuse of those weaker than you, the abuse of a system whose goal is to keep the people producing. But there’s a glimmer of hope. Rain is a likeable, gritting, strong and relatable character. She’s not another wimpy heroine who needs to be saved or some overwritten super woman. She’s Rain. She’s corruptible, she’s weak, but she overcomes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The world building is fabulous, the mysteries compelling and the love between Rain and her brother, and the scenes with Ben will warm your heart.
Review: The Color of Rain is a beautiful book. The cover, the writing, the heart. It’s lyrical, painful and impossible to step away from. Once you enter the world of Cori McCarthy’s writing, it will grip you and hold you tight. It will break your heart, lift you up and remake your concepts about humanity. I read this book in one day, unable to do anything else until I chased down the end of this fabulous story.
As much as I loved this book and I feel it’s a book that not only should be read, but must be read. I do not feel it’s appropriate for the YA label. This is not a comment on the writing and doesn’t effect my enjoyment, in fact it probably enhanced it, but if anyone is reading this review to consider purchasing, it’s important to know that the book is quite explicit. It’s justified, well written and provocative in it’s detail, but I would not rate it PG13. Definitely read the sample before purchasing for younger readers.
In reality though, that’s neither here nor there when it comes to the content of the book. The Color of Rain highlights, just how far you can sink. Even if you have the best of intentions. It’s also a stunning allegory on the corruptive nature of power. The Vale family’s abuse has been passed down generations and now onto all those they hold dominion over. Rain is a drop of water in their ocean of cruelty, but through her we learn just how twisted the human mind can be. The heartbreaking part. The part that makes this book different from others, is that as she struggles to hold onto her sense of self and honor, she feels the seductive pull of that twisting power and begins to succumb. And as we watch her, we understand.
The reader is taken through so much pain, so much abuse through the eyes of Rain, you completely understand why she hardens herself into the image of Johnny Vale.
The Color of Rain deals with issues of rape, power, prostitution, corruption, and intrigue. But in the end, its all about the abuse. The abuse the father of the Vale brothers set down upon his sons, the abuse of abandonment, the abuse of those weaker than you, the abuse of a system whose goal is to keep the people producing. But there’s a glimmer of hope. Rain is a likeable, gritting, strong and relatable character. She’s not another wimpy heroine who needs to be saved or some overwritten super woman. She’s Rain. She’s corruptible, she’s weak, but she overcomes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The world building is fabulous, the mysteries compelling and the love between Rain and her brother, and the scenes with Ben will warm your heart.
June 30, 2014
Wow, this book has a really high average rating, but I just don't get it. It should never have been marketed as a young adult book. I don't think it belongs in the teen section of a public library, nor in a school library. Some folks say it fits the New Adult category better. I don't have any experience with the genre, but it felt very wrong for my students. Not only does it deal with very gritty prostitution--most of it in space, of course, as a science fiction book--but it also features some disturbing objectification of women and what seems like gratuitous violence and mistreatment of sick people to be shipped off Earth and sold as slave labor. It read like the experience of watching a bad R-rated movie, in which viewers have come to expect car chases, sex scenes, and thin motivations as a matter of course.
Science fiction has traditionally been a bit misogynistic (Heinlein et al), though I certainly read my share of it. It was sometimes hard to admire Rain, the redhead who sells her virginity to a space travelling captain willing to take her and her Touched brother on a journey from a dismal Earth to the Edge, where Mecs, genetically enhanced humans, may be able to help Walker keep his sanity and his health. It's also hard to quibble with females using the only commodity they have, their bodies, to get what they need for themselves and their loved ones; but this one is super bleak and not for the faint of heart. I suppose the character does become stronger over time, but reading this was not a treat. I nearly gave up on it, but I was determined to see whether the pot of gold--those high ratings--might be just on the next page or chapter. I just chased the rainbow through space.
Science fiction has traditionally been a bit misogynistic (Heinlein et al), though I certainly read my share of it. It was sometimes hard to admire Rain, the redhead who sells her virginity to a space travelling captain willing to take her and her Touched brother on a journey from a dismal Earth to the Edge, where Mecs, genetically enhanced humans, may be able to help Walker keep his sanity and his health. It's also hard to quibble with females using the only commodity they have, their bodies, to get what they need for themselves and their loved ones; but this one is super bleak and not for the faint of heart. I suppose the character does become stronger over time, but reading this was not a treat. I nearly gave up on it, but I was determined to see whether the pot of gold--those high ratings--might be just on the next page or chapter. I just chased the rainbow through space.
February 28, 2017
I don't read much YA anymore. Too much disappointment. But I loved this. It's very mature YA, to be sure. Maybe that's why I liked it? It was quite dark for YA.
Exhibit A: Space prostitute.
Exhibit B: Physical and emotional abuse.
HOLY. CRAP.
Exhibit C: Occasional swearing.
I can't find a quote. Just know that they say "fuck" a few times, both as an expletive and to refer to sex.
Exhibit D: Slavery.
The heroine gets down and dirty. I loved Rain because she goes places few YA heroines go. She has no specialized skills that just so happen to fit right into her story, like fighting or super smarts or anything like that. She's just a girl trying to survive in a harsh environment. She becomes a prostitute, which, in YA land, you would think means she magically never has to have sex because reasons. But nope, she does. Lots of it. She gets hurt, really physically hurt, and is constantly making plans. She has to make tough choices and sacrifices.
This book wasn't perfect, and it probably isn't everyone's cup of tea. People bored of standard YA might like this for the following reasons:
1. Guys don't like Rain for her beauty or special talent. She has rare red hair, and she's feisty.
2. There's no love triangle. Or if there is, it's not like the usual ones, and that's clear from the get-go.
3. It's a standalone.
4. The cover girl has serious hair (I just had to mention that.)
Anyway, I thought it was so good. I actually bought this instead of borrowing it, and I'm glad I did. Yay for gritty teen space operas!
Exhibit A: Space prostitute.
I now know what Ben meant when he spoke of the Void's inherent loneliness. The Void is a hollow place that breeds hollow existences. To be fair to the other working girls, the other blues, they've tried to be friendly. But I refuse to learn a name or take a favor. [...] I cannot afford friends on this ship. Or they can't afford me.
Exhibit B: Physical and emotional abuse.
Rage returns to his bared teeth, and he surges toward me so fast that I fall backward long before he kicks me.
And still, he kicks me.
My stomach. My ribs. My chest. I curl into a ball that does nothing to stem the thundering pain of being stomped.
[...]
"Know that this is only our warm-up," [he] growls, pressing even harder on my head.
And even harder ...
Pressure sears from my eye to my neck in the second before my jaw snaps.
HOLY. CRAP.
Exhibit C: Occasional swearing.
I can't find a quote. Just know that they say "fuck" a few times, both as an expletive and to refer to sex.
Exhibit D: Slavery.
The heroine gets down and dirty. I loved Rain because she goes places few YA heroines go. She has no specialized skills that just so happen to fit right into her story, like fighting or super smarts or anything like that. She's just a girl trying to survive in a harsh environment. She becomes a prostitute, which, in YA land, you would think means she magically never has to have sex because reasons. But nope, she does. Lots of it. She gets hurt, really physically hurt, and is constantly making plans. She has to make tough choices and sacrifices.
This book wasn't perfect, and it probably isn't everyone's cup of tea. People bored of standard YA might like this for the following reasons:
1. Guys don't like Rain for her beauty or special talent. She has rare red hair, and she's feisty.
2. There's no love triangle. Or if there is, it's not like the usual ones, and that's clear from the get-go.
3. It's a standalone.
4. The cover girl has serious hair (I just had to mention that.)
Anyway, I thought it was so good. I actually bought this instead of borrowing it, and I'm glad I did. Yay for gritty teen space operas!
February 11, 2015
Seventeen year old Rain White dreams of getting away from decrepit and dangerous Earth City. Her younger brother Walker is becoming "Touched" - more and more catatonic by the day, and the rest of their family has already been ripped away from them in this dystopian future. She hopes to get passage for her brother to mech space where there may be a cure for his debilitating condition. Clearly, Rain's only option is to become a space prostitute. Her best friend Lo convinces her to sell her virginity at a good price to a disgusting client, but when this plan falls through, she meets Johnny, a sexy space traveler, who offers her and her brother a spot on his ship... for a price.
Rain is horrified when she learns that Johnny's offer to buy her virginity is all a sham. He's actually a space pimp with a whole stable full of girls. Yes, he said he was interested in her body... but he never said it was specifically for himself. Her brother is cryogenically frozen and spends most of the book as a popsicle, as she struggles with psychopathic Johnny and his number one assistant, cyborg mech Ben.
Johnny casually takes Rain's virginity, and then downgrades her from "red" status - meaning only he can touch her - to blue, green and then yellow, as he allows fat slobby crewmembers to abuse her. Gradually, she and Ben reach out to each other, as they discover Johnny's secrets. Johnny is actually trading Touched colonists as slaves to mining colonies. Rain and Ben try to free them at a gambling colony run by Johnny's ex-girlfriend, but are foiled by Johnny's seemingly all-powerful reach.
Interestingly, Rain is fairly highly sexed herself. She finds Johnny attractive, and enjoys their time together, even as she recognizes that mech Ben is much more sensitive and ultimately, a better match. Even though she's only recently become sexually experienced, she's quickly able to turn off her feelings and provide a decent experience for her repulsive clients.
While marketed for fans of Across the Universe by Beth Revis, the space element is not as prevalent as one might think and this book might actually be a better match for mature readers who enjoy dark dystopian fantasies or readers looking for books about arranged marriages. Readers who liked Julia Karr's XVI about a dystopian world where all women over 16 are fare game for random men, or Suzanne Fisher Staple's Shabanu about a Pakistani girl doomed to an arranged marriage, or Pearl Abraham's The Romance Reader about a girl's escape from an arranged Hasidic Jewish marriage, will find much to appreciate in this gritty sci-fi dystopian novel about a girl's exchange of sexual power for freedom and family.
Rain is horrified when she learns that Johnny's offer to buy her virginity is all a sham. He's actually a space pimp with a whole stable full of girls. Yes, he said he was interested in her body... but he never said it was specifically for himself. Her brother is cryogenically frozen and spends most of the book as a popsicle, as she struggles with psychopathic Johnny and his number one assistant, cyborg mech Ben.
Johnny casually takes Rain's virginity, and then downgrades her from "red" status - meaning only he can touch her - to blue, green and then yellow, as he allows fat slobby crewmembers to abuse her. Gradually, she and Ben reach out to each other, as they discover Johnny's secrets. Johnny is actually trading Touched colonists as slaves to mining colonies. Rain and Ben try to free them at a gambling colony run by Johnny's ex-girlfriend, but are foiled by Johnny's seemingly all-powerful reach.
Interestingly, Rain is fairly highly sexed herself. She finds Johnny attractive, and enjoys their time together, even as she recognizes that mech Ben is much more sensitive and ultimately, a better match. Even though she's only recently become sexually experienced, she's quickly able to turn off her feelings and provide a decent experience for her repulsive clients.
While marketed for fans of Across the Universe by Beth Revis, the space element is not as prevalent as one might think and this book might actually be a better match for mature readers who enjoy dark dystopian fantasies or readers looking for books about arranged marriages. Readers who liked Julia Karr's XVI about a dystopian world where all women over 16 are fare game for random men, or Suzanne Fisher Staple's Shabanu about a Pakistani girl doomed to an arranged marriage, or Pearl Abraham's The Romance Reader about a girl's escape from an arranged Hasidic Jewish marriage, will find much to appreciate in this gritty sci-fi dystopian novel about a girl's exchange of sexual power for freedom and family.
February 26, 2015
This book reminded me of a [very] sci-fi version of Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, The Handmaid's Tale, but for young adults. While I enjoy the fantastical, I think this one was leaning a little too far on the science fiction end for my own personal taste.
That said, it was actually a really gripping read, and I cared enough about the characters to see it through to the end.
That said, it was actually a really gripping read, and I cared enough about the characters to see it through to the end.
February 10, 2014
I found The Color of Rain on one of the blogs I read regularly, Books Without Any Pictures. Grace’s description along with the cover interested me so much that I went out and bought the book. Would it live up to my expectations?
Yes! In fact, Cori McCarthy’s novel actually surpassed my expectations. For a YA novel (albeit strongly recommended for older young adults) it tackles some pretty heavy issues including rape, abuse, prostitution and trauma. Many authors have found their banes in these issues, but Cori McCarthy tackled them head on without really preaching to her audience. No, she presents these issues within the story and allows readers to infer a lot of the effects on poor Rain through her thoughts and actions.
Rain is an interesting character to say the least. She will do anything, literally anything, to save the life of her brother, who is “Touched” and likely to die without treatment. This anything includes prostitution aboard the ship of Johnny Vale, who has taken a personal interest in Rain because she is a natural redhead. Every girl on the ship has a bracelet and their colour denotes their position (yellow for all crew members, green for higher ups, etc.), but Rain is given a red bracelet as part of her being Johnny’s favourite, a dubious honour.
Johnny is quite the villain, doing everything from playing mind games to literally torturing Rain and those she loves. He’s callous and ambitious, a dangerous combination for those around him, especially Rain and his assistant, Ben the Mec (a human with mechanical enhancements). It’s a testament to Cori McCarthy’s writing talent that the decisions Johnny forces Rain to make don’t make readers hate her but rather send home the message about abuse.
I wouldn’t call The Color of Rain fast-paced in terms of action, but there was a lot of character development and inner conflict that I had to keep going to find out what happened. And just when I thought I knew what the ending was going to be, Cori McCarthy threw in a huge, horrifying twist. Obviously she’s not one of these writers that babies her characters, which made me love her debut novel even more.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
Yes! In fact, Cori McCarthy’s novel actually surpassed my expectations. For a YA novel (albeit strongly recommended for older young adults) it tackles some pretty heavy issues including rape, abuse, prostitution and trauma. Many authors have found their banes in these issues, but Cori McCarthy tackled them head on without really preaching to her audience. No, she presents these issues within the story and allows readers to infer a lot of the effects on poor Rain through her thoughts and actions.
Rain is an interesting character to say the least. She will do anything, literally anything, to save the life of her brother, who is “Touched” and likely to die without treatment. This anything includes prostitution aboard the ship of Johnny Vale, who has taken a personal interest in Rain because she is a natural redhead. Every girl on the ship has a bracelet and their colour denotes their position (yellow for all crew members, green for higher ups, etc.), but Rain is given a red bracelet as part of her being Johnny’s favourite, a dubious honour.
Johnny is quite the villain, doing everything from playing mind games to literally torturing Rain and those she loves. He’s callous and ambitious, a dangerous combination for those around him, especially Rain and his assistant, Ben the Mec (a human with mechanical enhancements). It’s a testament to Cori McCarthy’s writing talent that the decisions Johnny forces Rain to make don’t make readers hate her but rather send home the message about abuse.
I wouldn’t call The Color of Rain fast-paced in terms of action, but there was a lot of character development and inner conflict that I had to keep going to find out what happened. And just when I thought I knew what the ending was going to be, Cori McCarthy threw in a huge, horrifying twist. Obviously she’s not one of these writers that babies her characters, which made me love her debut novel even more.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
June 22, 2013
WOW! I'm not quite sure where to start...I don't want to give too much away. The Color of Rain is a dystopian sci-fy that kept me up all last night. I couldn't stop until I finished it.
On earth, it's full of ash and everything is grey. They produce items but they can't grow anything. Also, what we know as Alzheimer's has revolved genetically and anyone can get it - they are called the Touched. If you are Touched, it's a death sentence. You gradually lose your mind. Rain's younger brother, Walker, is Touched and she has heard that the Mecs, a superior race on another planet, can cure him. She wants to get him there, but she's broke. She has no alternative in her mind but to trade her virginity and her body to get the funds she needs to book them both passage.
Things don't quite work out that way though when Rain bumps into handsome Johnny . He's been looking for a true redhead for ages so he bargains quickly with Rain. He'll take them both to the Edge, the area where the Mecs are, but she'll be his girl. Walker will be frozen for the trip so he doesn't cause any problems and his disease doesn't progress. Rain knows its the best deal she's likely to get and is excited about going into space.
Then, she finds out the truth about Johnny and his girls. Ben, the Mec on the ship, has everyone scared but Rain isn't scared of him. She becomes friends with Ben and he tries to guide her the best way he knows how to keep her safe. Rain is a strong person though and knows if she is to save her brother, she'll have to play Johnny's games. What she doesn't count on is the emotional and physical trauma he puts her through.
There is so much more that happens but I don't want to spoil anything. Prostitution in space, supreme beings, crazy bad-ass world-building, complex characters, romance, intrigue and more are to be found within these pages. Because of some of the situations, I would rate this book as New Adult, not Young Adult. Nonetheless, it's freaking fantastic. I can't wait for McCarthy's next book!
On earth, it's full of ash and everything is grey. They produce items but they can't grow anything. Also, what we know as Alzheimer's has revolved genetically and anyone can get it - they are called the Touched. If you are Touched, it's a death sentence. You gradually lose your mind. Rain's younger brother, Walker, is Touched and she has heard that the Mecs, a superior race on another planet, can cure him. She wants to get him there, but she's broke. She has no alternative in her mind but to trade her virginity and her body to get the funds she needs to book them both passage.
Things don't quite work out that way though when Rain bumps into handsome Johnny . He's been looking for a true redhead for ages so he bargains quickly with Rain. He'll take them both to the Edge, the area where the Mecs are, but she'll be his girl. Walker will be frozen for the trip so he doesn't cause any problems and his disease doesn't progress. Rain knows its the best deal she's likely to get and is excited about going into space.
Then, she finds out the truth about Johnny and his girls. Ben, the Mec on the ship, has everyone scared but Rain isn't scared of him. She becomes friends with Ben and he tries to guide her the best way he knows how to keep her safe. Rain is a strong person though and knows if she is to save her brother, she'll have to play Johnny's games. What she doesn't count on is the emotional and physical trauma he puts her through.
There is so much more that happens but I don't want to spoil anything. Prostitution in space, supreme beings, crazy bad-ass world-building, complex characters, romance, intrigue and more are to be found within these pages. Because of some of the situations, I would rate this book as New Adult, not Young Adult. Nonetheless, it's freaking fantastic. I can't wait for McCarthy's next book!
June 3, 2013
This is a debut novel that is so unexpected and mind-bending that I guarantee you won't be able to put it down. Part of it, yes, is the shock of it all. Cori McCarthy's THE COLOR OF RAIN is about prostitution. In space.
I think it's actually more apt to think of this as a human trafficking book, though. Rain, the protagonist, is a fiery redhead -- and one of the last. Johnny, Captain of a ship that runs the Void between Earth City and the outer planets, is fascinated by her -- he's never seen a real redhead before and has always wanted one. The fact is, Johnny isn't all that he appears, and while Rain has already reached a point of desperation to saver her sick brother, she truly has no idea what she is in for when she agrees to whatever Johnny wants in return for passage on his ship -- and her brother's possible salvation.
Her only ally on the ship is Johnny's Mec, Ben. And while everyone, including Rain's best friend Lo, is convinced that Mecs are strange, evil, and possibly even cannibalistic, Rain doesn't see it. But it's hard to tell who your ally is on a ship that might actually hold secrets darker than the prostitution ring that Rain has found herself stuck in. And when someone as sinister as Johnny is in charge of it all? All hope might be, well, out the airlock.
THE COLOR OF RAIN is a book that is so sensational, and so terrifying, that would definitely be tough for the faint of heart. However, the writing is so solid, the characters so believable, and truthful, I would recommend it to sci fi fans who can handle the true issues that very real, very our world teens encounter in the tragic reality of human trafficking. Cori McCarthy has built a world that is Battlestar Galactica meets Locked Up Abroad. She's a voice to watch, and I can't wait to see what she does next.
I think it's actually more apt to think of this as a human trafficking book, though. Rain, the protagonist, is a fiery redhead -- and one of the last. Johnny, Captain of a ship that runs the Void between Earth City and the outer planets, is fascinated by her -- he's never seen a real redhead before and has always wanted one. The fact is, Johnny isn't all that he appears, and while Rain has already reached a point of desperation to saver her sick brother, she truly has no idea what she is in for when she agrees to whatever Johnny wants in return for passage on his ship -- and her brother's possible salvation.
Her only ally on the ship is Johnny's Mec, Ben. And while everyone, including Rain's best friend Lo, is convinced that Mecs are strange, evil, and possibly even cannibalistic, Rain doesn't see it. But it's hard to tell who your ally is on a ship that might actually hold secrets darker than the prostitution ring that Rain has found herself stuck in. And when someone as sinister as Johnny is in charge of it all? All hope might be, well, out the airlock.
THE COLOR OF RAIN is a book that is so sensational, and so terrifying, that would definitely be tough for the faint of heart. However, the writing is so solid, the characters so believable, and truthful, I would recommend it to sci fi fans who can handle the true issues that very real, very our world teens encounter in the tragic reality of human trafficking. Cori McCarthy has built a world that is Battlestar Galactica meets Locked Up Abroad. She's a voice to watch, and I can't wait to see what she does next.
July 4, 2013
Rain White is the sole protector for her younger brother. He is ill. He has Alzheimer's. Rain has heard that the planet Edge where the Mercs live can cure Rain’s brother. Rain has no money. Rain meets Johnny. Johnny will take Rain and her brother on his starship for a price…Rain’s virginity. Rain agrees. What Rain does not know is the fate she just sealed for herself with the devil.
I have been hooked lately on the “young adult” genre. So even though this book is being marketed at the teen audience, adults will enjoy it as well. I do want to say however that even though this book is aimed at the teen audience I would suggest that the teen readers start at age 16+. This is because of some of the subject matter in this book like the loss of virginity and prostitution. On the other hand however, I did find this book to be intriguing and refreshing. The world and the concept is not something that I have read yet. The way things are described as people like Rain see them in color. For example the facts that the color of her hair being “true red” is very important and is considered to be a very high commodity like gold. As everything views things in color like gray. Also people who are affected by Alzheimer's are feared and considered to be “touched”.
There is a nice romance that is formed in this book with Rain. The guy is nice so that helped. I hated Johnny as he was mean. Which I am sure was the point the author was trying to portray about Johnny. As much as I did like this book, it did take a few chapters for me to really get into this book and for it to pick up speed. You better put on your technicolor goggles as you take a journey with The Color of Rain.
I have been hooked lately on the “young adult” genre. So even though this book is being marketed at the teen audience, adults will enjoy it as well. I do want to say however that even though this book is aimed at the teen audience I would suggest that the teen readers start at age 16+. This is because of some of the subject matter in this book like the loss of virginity and prostitution. On the other hand however, I did find this book to be intriguing and refreshing. The world and the concept is not something that I have read yet. The way things are described as people like Rain see them in color. For example the facts that the color of her hair being “true red” is very important and is considered to be a very high commodity like gold. As everything views things in color like gray. Also people who are affected by Alzheimer's are feared and considered to be “touched”.
There is a nice romance that is formed in this book with Rain. The guy is nice so that helped. I hated Johnny as he was mean. Which I am sure was the point the author was trying to portray about Johnny. As much as I did like this book, it did take a few chapters for me to really get into this book and for it to pick up speed. You better put on your technicolor goggles as you take a journey with The Color of Rain.
July 13, 2014
This book left me speechless. It was just perfect. Everything about it. From the grit and strength of the heroine to the dystopian world McCarthy created that is hauntingly similar to behind the scenes America today.Human slavery, prostitution, corporate powers ruling the world,and the abuse of those powers made a hard journey for our heroine, Rain White. She gets the chance to leave Earth City with her brother who is Touched(a mental disease akin to Alzheimers on steroids that has been taking over a lot of the population). She has to take him to the Edge, a place across space that has the technology to heal her brother. So she jumps at the chance when a handsome starship pilot offers her a ride if she becomes his girl. She sacrifices her dignity and more to save her brother, but gets caught up in a plot that affects more than just him. The author wrote with a poetic ease and yet an action packed thrill that made me read this book in one huge gulp.I wanted to buy this book right after I read it so I could go over my favorite scenes, soak in the poetry and the beautiful concepts the author spins about humanity. This book left me feeling inspired and strong and determined to make everyone I know read it. Best book I've read in a long time. And I read a lot of good books.
August 1, 2013
This book felt original and familiar at the same time. I think that McCarthy achieved that seemingly paradoxical experience through offering a world that the reader could enter easily with a character who is deeply rendered. Rain's world is nothing but sad and when a handsome pilot offers her flight off the planet *and* a chance to save her brother, Rain leaps at the opportunity, even when it means giving her body over to this unknown man.
The way McCarthy raised the stakes in this book was impressive in the sense that as Rain faced each, increasingly difficult obstacle, she learned more about herself and we learned more about her as a person. While many thrilling, high stakes books end in predictable or disappointing ways, I was fully satisfied with the ending to The Color of Rain. This is an excellent book by a talented writer. Can't wait to see her next work.
The way McCarthy raised the stakes in this book was impressive in the sense that as Rain faced each, increasingly difficult obstacle, she learned more about herself and we learned more about her as a person. While many thrilling, high stakes books end in predictable or disappointing ways, I was fully satisfied with the ending to The Color of Rain. This is an excellent book by a talented writer. Can't wait to see her next work.
August 30, 2017
I only read the first few pages and was appalled by the content. Being a Young Adult and looking at this Young Adult Novel, I was surprised and angry that such a novel was put in this genre. I understand the importance of learning about prostitution, but I thought that there was too much detail in that part. There should be a warning somewhere on the cover about the content of the book. The writing was flowing and lovely, but the genre is too heavy for the age group.
April 9, 2013
A dystopian thriller for teens - includes all the stuff of adult thrillers...sex, violence, suspense, action, good guy vs bad guy, plus space travel!
October 17, 2017
Teenager Rain lives in a dark world where many of the people catch an illness that robs them of their memory not unlike alzheimer's. She has already lost both parents and a brother and she is now about to lose her younger brother, the only family she has left. She does what she has to find a cure and save him even if that means she has to sell herself to do it.
I had never really read a story like this. I usually stay away from sci-fi but I was pleasantly surprised with The Color Of Rain. The fact that Rain goes to any extreme to save her brother, her friend and sometimes herself was a little shocking to me. The story had a darkness to it. Just when you thought things might get better it got a little worse.
The Color Of Rain is another ones of those stories that falls in the category wanting more after finished. I wanted a sequel. It ends well enough but I just wanted to know what else happened. I am also a little surprised it is considered a young adult book. It does have some heavy adult themes.
I finished the book a few months ago and the story still sticks with me. Which to me means it was a good read. My mind still wanders to the characters wondering what they are doing. Or if I would sacrifice myself for my family the way Rain did. The story cuts deep and shocks your core a little but worth a read.
I had never really read a story like this. I usually stay away from sci-fi but I was pleasantly surprised with The Color Of Rain. The fact that Rain goes to any extreme to save her brother, her friend and sometimes herself was a little shocking to me. The story had a darkness to it. Just when you thought things might get better it got a little worse.
The Color Of Rain is another ones of those stories that falls in the category wanting more after finished. I wanted a sequel. It ends well enough but I just wanted to know what else happened. I am also a little surprised it is considered a young adult book. It does have some heavy adult themes.
I finished the book a few months ago and the story still sticks with me. Which to me means it was a good read. My mind still wanders to the characters wondering what they are doing. Or if I would sacrifice myself for my family the way Rain did. The story cuts deep and shocks your core a little but worth a read.
July 20, 2017
I've had this book in my pile for a few years now and just picked it up this month, so I had no idea what I was starting because I chose not to read the back cover so it would have the element of surprise. It didn't fail me. I really enjoyed this book, but I would not say it was a young adult book, maybe a mature young adult or new adult due to adult situations and language.
Rain White and her brother, Walker, are the last of their family to live in Earth City, and to say that life is hard would be an understatement. You make a living as best as you can, and try to keep "Touched" hidden. Unfortunately that job is getting harder to do, Walker is showing more and more symptoms everyday, which leads Rain into making a dangerous and desperate deal with a "runner". Life is about to get very different for Rain, but thankfully her red hair gives her an edge in her "new life", but is it enough to save her and Walker? Appearances can be deceiving and she soon finds out that the Void is way more than she bargained for!
You can get you a copy of this book at this link:
https://www.amazon.com/Color-Rain-Cor...
Rain White and her brother, Walker, are the last of their family to live in Earth City, and to say that life is hard would be an understatement. You make a living as best as you can, and try to keep "Touched" hidden. Unfortunately that job is getting harder to do, Walker is showing more and more symptoms everyday, which leads Rain into making a dangerous and desperate deal with a "runner". Life is about to get very different for Rain, but thankfully her red hair gives her an edge in her "new life", but is it enough to save her and Walker? Appearances can be deceiving and she soon finds out that the Void is way more than she bargained for!
You can get you a copy of this book at this link:
https://www.amazon.com/Color-Rain-Cor...
July 27, 2018
The Color of Rain is an intensely emotional story of a young girl named Rain who decides to do whatever she can to try and save her brother Walker from the ravaging sickness know as, The Touched. It’s an evolved form of Alzheimer’s that is sweeping Earth City, and in order to try and save Walker, Rain has to keep hope that The Edge and it’s race of genetically engineered humans with extreme advanced technology will be her answer. Rain meet Johnny, the owner of a space ship and she sells herself to gain passage to the Edge for her and Walker. What she doesn’t know is that she’s become the prize possession for one of Johnny’s business ventures. She is Johnny’s girl. What she has to do to survive is unreal and will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. So strap on your seatbelts and get ready for a bumpy galactic ride!
August 17, 2018
Not for the faint of heart, but a very satisfying dystopian/sci-fi read.
June 9, 2020
A YA sci-fi novel. A bit repetitive in places, but it had an interesting set up and there was enough depth to the characters. this was my 29th book of 50 for the Pop Sugar Challenge.
Want to read
November 7, 2020Auryn Hadley read
August 30, 2013
This review and more can be found on The Sirenic Codex.
I'm a little blown away right now. I'm shocked and trying to grasp what I just read. This book shattered my expectations. I don't even know where to start.
I'll start with the abstract; The Color of Rain is incredibly dark and intense. It's on the mature scale of YA and it is horrifying and a little heart breaking. It explores prostitution, something I have never ever read about, and it is so much grittier than I expected. The author didn't try to disgust her readers; she also didn't try to overdose on the darkness. There were some details but I think Cori McCarthy deserves some applause for handling this issue so delicately.
Rain White lives in Earth City, a dismal environment, with just her brother Walker after a strange illness has taken away everyone else in her family, directly and indirectly. Those that are Touched are collected and removed from the general population and Rain is trying her best to save her Touched brother, Walker, from harm. She's heard of a place where Walker can be cured, and after she makes a deal with the Captain of an airship, who is interested in her partially because of her red hair, she has a way of getting there. Needless to say she is way in over her head.
Rain is someone I could like right away. She is fiercely protective of her brother and is willing to do whatever, and I mean whatever, it takes to help him. She's also fiery and passionate. Often, she'll say the wrong thing or challenge the wrong person. What impresses me about Rain is that as broken as she was, she never succumbed to being a victim. It's easy to let go and give up everything. It's harder to continue to feel and care. Rain earned a lot of respect from me for her determination, resourcefulness, and perseverance.
It's hard to describe The Color of Rain without spoiling people so I'll just brush over the rest of the characters. Lo is heartbreaking. She could have given up at any point but her loyalty to Rain is inspiring. Johnny is a fucking bastard and I hate that psychopath. So, obviously McCarthy did a good job at creating a villain. What's most impressive is that I didn't think Johnny would be that bad early on but as the story progressed I hated him more and more. That's fantastic characterization. Ben's character fits his role perfectly. He was entirely believable and well crafted too.
No doubt about it though; this story is about Rain and she ran the show.
Morality was huge issue in The Color of Rain. Do the ends justify the means? How far is too far? And if you've gone too far, how do you go back? Beyond prostitution, there was torture, death, slavery... This book really was dark. It wasn't overwhelming. Well, not often. You see, there was a true storyline that was enthralling in its own right.
Rain's journey takes her all throughout the galaxy and uncovers many disgusting secrets and lies. Although this book is sci-fi, I think pretty much anyone can read it because, with the exception of the beginning, nothing is too hard to follow. And after the beginning it's very easy to catch on. I think the strongest part of this book is the characterization and growth of rain.
I've written a pretty glowing review so far so I feel the need to mention a few things I would have liked to see. First, more of an emotional connection. I would not have minded if this book was longer and some parts slowed down because I feel like maybe the story would have benefited from seeing even more of Rain. It would be an even darker story and obviously incredibly hard to write but at some points I felt like the author maybe held back emotionally. In terms of plot she went for it but this could be a devastating book to read and Cori McCarthy didn't want to do that to her readers. I'm not sure if this is a bad thing because this is probably on the verge of not being accepted, if it hasn't crossed the line already, by those misinformed people that think YA should be censored. I also would have liked to get to know the other girls a little more. I don't like when the MC is hated by everyone else that is similar to her. It's a little bit of a pet peeve.
To be honest, I think this story is fine the way it is. It toes a line and as dark as it is, it also tells a really good story. I'm not soon going too forget The Color of Rain and I think the best praise I can give it is calling it a 5 star book. It's a unique read that I'll probably have to read again to absorb. It makes me think and question and that is one of the best qualities a book can have.
I'm a little blown away right now. I'm shocked and trying to grasp what I just read. This book shattered my expectations. I don't even know where to start.
I'll start with the abstract; The Color of Rain is incredibly dark and intense. It's on the mature scale of YA and it is horrifying and a little heart breaking. It explores prostitution, something I have never ever read about, and it is so much grittier than I expected. The author didn't try to disgust her readers; she also didn't try to overdose on the darkness. There were some details but I think Cori McCarthy deserves some applause for handling this issue so delicately.
Rain White lives in Earth City, a dismal environment, with just her brother Walker after a strange illness has taken away everyone else in her family, directly and indirectly. Those that are Touched are collected and removed from the general population and Rain is trying her best to save her Touched brother, Walker, from harm. She's heard of a place where Walker can be cured, and after she makes a deal with the Captain of an airship, who is interested in her partially because of her red hair, she has a way of getting there. Needless to say she is way in over her head.
Rain is someone I could like right away. She is fiercely protective of her brother and is willing to do whatever, and I mean whatever, it takes to help him. She's also fiery and passionate. Often, she'll say the wrong thing or challenge the wrong person. What impresses me about Rain is that as broken as she was, she never succumbed to being a victim. It's easy to let go and give up everything. It's harder to continue to feel and care. Rain earned a lot of respect from me for her determination, resourcefulness, and perseverance.
It's hard to describe The Color of Rain without spoiling people so I'll just brush over the rest of the characters. Lo is heartbreaking. She could have given up at any point but her loyalty to Rain is inspiring. Johnny is a fucking bastard and I hate that psychopath. So, obviously McCarthy did a good job at creating a villain. What's most impressive is that I didn't think Johnny would be that bad early on but as the story progressed I hated him more and more. That's fantastic characterization. Ben's character fits his role perfectly. He was entirely believable and well crafted too.
No doubt about it though; this story is about Rain and she ran the show.
Morality was huge issue in The Color of Rain. Do the ends justify the means? How far is too far? And if you've gone too far, how do you go back? Beyond prostitution, there was torture, death, slavery... This book really was dark. It wasn't overwhelming. Well, not often. You see, there was a true storyline that was enthralling in its own right.
Rain's journey takes her all throughout the galaxy and uncovers many disgusting secrets and lies. Although this book is sci-fi, I think pretty much anyone can read it because, with the exception of the beginning, nothing is too hard to follow. And after the beginning it's very easy to catch on. I think the strongest part of this book is the characterization and growth of rain.
I've written a pretty glowing review so far so I feel the need to mention a few things I would have liked to see. First, more of an emotional connection. I would not have minded if this book was longer and some parts slowed down because I feel like maybe the story would have benefited from seeing even more of Rain. It would be an even darker story and obviously incredibly hard to write but at some points I felt like the author maybe held back emotionally. In terms of plot she went for it but this could be a devastating book to read and Cori McCarthy didn't want to do that to her readers. I'm not sure if this is a bad thing because this is probably on the verge of not being accepted, if it hasn't crossed the line already, by those misinformed people that think YA should be censored. I also would have liked to get to know the other girls a little more. I don't like when the MC is hated by everyone else that is similar to her. It's a little bit of a pet peeve.
To be honest, I think this story is fine the way it is. It toes a line and as dark as it is, it also tells a really good story. I'm not soon going too forget The Color of Rain and I think the best praise I can give it is calling it a 5 star book. It's a unique read that I'll probably have to read again to absorb. It makes me think and question and that is one of the best qualities a book can have.
March 14, 2013
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of Cori McCarthy's first novel, The Color of Rain. It has been a while since I've read something that I wanted to recommend to people even before I had finished it. My five second pitch sounded something like, "Firefly meets Across the Universe with the poetry of Before I Fall."
But even as I write this now I don't think that it goes far enough. The raw intensity of The Color of Rain is embedded in McCarthy's protagonist's, Rain's, poetic perceptions of her vast universe. Rain is as fierce and fiery as her red hair, but she's also vulnerable and broken, drowning in the loss of her family from a disease (reminiscent of Alzheimer's) known as being Touched.
The only people that Rain have left is her little brother, Walker, and her best friend, Lo. When Rain trades her body to a captain named Johnny in order to save her brother's life, her primary goal is to use Johnny to get through the Void --the expansive space between her home planet of Earth City and The Edge, a planet that is rumoured to be so advanced that its technologies could possibly save her brother. But, when Rain stumbles upon a secret, she has to choose between her family and saving hundreds of lives.
Among all of the things that make up this solid Science Fiction novel-- intricate descriptions of the space ship, lush planets with unbreakable glass floors, and greasy pollution-filled cities-- is the compassionate description of a girl's first sexual experience, and the harsh brutality of physical and emotional abuse. The rawness of this novel made it sometimes difficult to read, but by then I was too invested in Rain. While Rain learns how to disconnect herself, she re-emerges stronger, re-claiming her power and her body.
McCarthy is also wise enough to know when it is appropriate to add in a little bit of humour in an otherwise dark narrative. The dialogue and flirtations between Rain and a Mec--an advanced human from The Edge-- who helps her, Ben, is precious and there are a few jokes tucked in at just the right moment that made me chuckle.
As many of you know, my favourite novels are the ones that not only asks the deep questions, but struggles with the difficult answers, pushing a protagonist to decide what kind of person s/he wishes to be. This is particularly powerful in YA because by its definition, the reader is just trying to figure this out for the first time. But I know that this isn't just true for teens, we are all trying to navigate this vast universe and come back from our own dark voids, a little weary and shaken but with the hope that what we carry with us is the imprint of our history and that which came before us. For then we can tell our own stories.
But even as I write this now I don't think that it goes far enough. The raw intensity of The Color of Rain is embedded in McCarthy's protagonist's, Rain's, poetic perceptions of her vast universe. Rain is as fierce and fiery as her red hair, but she's also vulnerable and broken, drowning in the loss of her family from a disease (reminiscent of Alzheimer's) known as being Touched.
The only people that Rain have left is her little brother, Walker, and her best friend, Lo. When Rain trades her body to a captain named Johnny in order to save her brother's life, her primary goal is to use Johnny to get through the Void --the expansive space between her home planet of Earth City and The Edge, a planet that is rumoured to be so advanced that its technologies could possibly save her brother. But, when Rain stumbles upon a secret, she has to choose between her family and saving hundreds of lives.
Among all of the things that make up this solid Science Fiction novel-- intricate descriptions of the space ship, lush planets with unbreakable glass floors, and greasy pollution-filled cities-- is the compassionate description of a girl's first sexual experience, and the harsh brutality of physical and emotional abuse. The rawness of this novel made it sometimes difficult to read, but by then I was too invested in Rain. While Rain learns how to disconnect herself, she re-emerges stronger, re-claiming her power and her body.
McCarthy is also wise enough to know when it is appropriate to add in a little bit of humour in an otherwise dark narrative. The dialogue and flirtations between Rain and a Mec--an advanced human from The Edge-- who helps her, Ben, is precious and there are a few jokes tucked in at just the right moment that made me chuckle.
As many of you know, my favourite novels are the ones that not only asks the deep questions, but struggles with the difficult answers, pushing a protagonist to decide what kind of person s/he wishes to be. This is particularly powerful in YA because by its definition, the reader is just trying to figure this out for the first time. But I know that this isn't just true for teens, we are all trying to navigate this vast universe and come back from our own dark voids, a little weary and shaken but with the hope that what we carry with us is the imprint of our history and that which came before us. For then we can tell our own stories.
April 18, 2014
I am very proud to admit that this book was a pleasure to read. I was very afraid of what it would become by the end, especially since this was a "space thriller." I find that these type of books can either become amazing or horrible by the end, there's a 50/50 chance.
The Color of Rain is all about a sister-brother bond. Rain is the ultimate big sister who only has her little brother, Walker, left in her life, after the rest of her family died. Walker needs a cure for his disease, and the only way for Rain to find it is to board a ship owned by Johnny, a handsome fellow who secretly takes the "Touched" and uses them as slaves underground.
This book had a great storyline. We normally don't ever read about a brother-sister relationship, but here we had a great one. Instead of a sacrificing romance, this is about the girl having to save her little and only brother. This girl is the perfect role and model, and she shows us that we can do anything, with risks in between, if that doesn't sound overly
Rain was a great character who told her story thoroughly and left us with no questions in the end. She told her story well and made us readers interested most of the time. I will not say all the time because there were some midway points that were overly exaggerated and predictable.
The horrific events that occurred in this book were really horrible. I think that the author really tried to make us readers feel sorry for the protagonist, who didn't really make a huge deal about the occurring events. Slavery, troubling romance, and fighting for her brother all sounded a little too much for this kind of book, but thankfully the protagonist handled the situations smartly.
The other characters were bland and I didn't really have a favourite because I felt like they were all the same, but it's okay to have bad characters in this situation because we have a pretty well-written storyline.
Great book for people looking for some action. ^~^
July 8, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut YA novel from Cori McCarthy. The Color of Rain is a satisfying science fiction thriller geared towards the older young adult reader (or all of us adults who have recognized the amazing literature out there in the young adult genre!). McCarthy did a beautiful job showcasing character development. I immediately was drawn to Rain and her struggles - I wanted to help her and give her some sage advice; shield her from the scum of earth and the intergalactic airspace. McCarthy also did a stellar job creating Rain's world - Earth City was easily imagined, even though little time was spent there. The majority of the book played out on Johnny's ship while in flight. The layout of the ship wasn't what stuck with me, but the feeling on board did. Seems as though the vibe of the book is what really stayed with me long after I put this down. The Color of Rain was dark, gritty, sexual, and daring. The idea of "anything goes" and Rain's willingness to do whatever it takes to save her brother mixes to create a sex fueled futuristic tale of warning.
This novel is definitely a phenomenal story. It is like nothing that I have read before- which is refreshing.
I would certainly recommend this to older readers and fans of YA Lit. It is for readers looking for a new author to enjoy and those who like a little futuristic drama. However, it is also a story I wouldn't offer to a young teen... I don't think this fits for readers under 17 -- the sex and prostitution were enough to give me pause when I was deciding whether or not to put this in my class library (I teach 14 - 16 year olds). Ultimately, I have decided this isn't a story to share in my class library, but that isn't to say a parent can't share it with their younger YA reader - I just know better than to rock the boat with sex in a book in my classroom!
- See more at: http://papajm25.blogspot.com/#sthash....
This novel is definitely a phenomenal story. It is like nothing that I have read before- which is refreshing.
I would certainly recommend this to older readers and fans of YA Lit. It is for readers looking for a new author to enjoy and those who like a little futuristic drama. However, it is also a story I wouldn't offer to a young teen... I don't think this fits for readers under 17 -- the sex and prostitution were enough to give me pause when I was deciding whether or not to put this in my class library (I teach 14 - 16 year olds). Ultimately, I have decided this isn't a story to share in my class library, but that isn't to say a parent can't share it with their younger YA reader - I just know better than to rock the boat with sex in a book in my classroom!
- See more at: http://papajm25.blogspot.com/#sthash....
August 2, 2013
“The Color of Rain” is an action-packed dystopian thriller with wonderful world-building. Rain White, the seventeen-year-old narrator, attracts the attention of Johnny, a handsome starship captain, because she is a rare true redhead. Desperate to escape the slums of desolate Earth City and get medical attention for her younger brother, she agrees to trade her body to him in exchange for passage across the Void to the Edge, where humans (called “Mecs”) have been genitally enhanced and are more technologically advanced.
On the spaceship Rain is shocked to discover Johnny has a harem of girls expected to sexually service the passengers and crew. After Rain discovers that his true business evolves human trafficking, and that he sadistically controls others through violence, it will take all her ingenuity and courage to survive. Rain survives beatings and rape, witnesses torture and murder, and makes choices that send others to their deaths. There are graphic scenes of violence so it is not for the squeamish. The sexual scenes are glossed over, however, and the story does not romanticize the sex trade.
Rain is a strong, likeable character with the spirit of a survivor. She struggles to hold on to her sense of self as she is degraded. I found it difficult to believe that she remained physically attracted to Johnny even as she described his abusive behavior, although she did constantly berate herself for those feelings. Rain also develops feelings for Ben, a “Mec” on the ship whose advanced technological skills keep the ship running, and whose true purpose is to stop the slave trade. The scenes with Rain and Ben were my favorite.
I recommend this for older teens who are looking for an intense page-turner with a strong heroine, as well as adults who enjoy YA fiction.
On the spaceship Rain is shocked to discover Johnny has a harem of girls expected to sexually service the passengers and crew. After Rain discovers that his true business evolves human trafficking, and that he sadistically controls others through violence, it will take all her ingenuity and courage to survive. Rain survives beatings and rape, witnesses torture and murder, and makes choices that send others to their deaths. There are graphic scenes of violence so it is not for the squeamish. The sexual scenes are glossed over, however, and the story does not romanticize the sex trade.
Rain is a strong, likeable character with the spirit of a survivor. She struggles to hold on to her sense of self as she is degraded. I found it difficult to believe that she remained physically attracted to Johnny even as she described his abusive behavior, although she did constantly berate herself for those feelings. Rain also develops feelings for Ben, a “Mec” on the ship whose advanced technological skills keep the ship running, and whose true purpose is to stop the slave trade. The scenes with Rain and Ben were my favorite.
I recommend this for older teens who are looking for an intense page-turner with a strong heroine, as well as adults who enjoy YA fiction.
Read
May 17, 2016Rain just wants a better life for her and her sick brother than they can get in Earth City, so when a charming spaceship caption named Johnny offers her passage in return for being "his girl", she readily agrees. Unfortunately, Johnny is not what he seems to be, and Rain is going to have to fight in order to survive his ship of horrors.
First off, let me say that if "new adult" ever includes genre fiction, then THE COLOR OF RAIN would be a good fit. It's quite a bit more mature than most YA (think Ellen Hopkins), but the grounded writing (which earns a Zombie Chicken Merit Badge) never sensationalizes what amounts to sex trafficking in space.
The main stage of THE COLOR OF RAIN is Johnny's spaceship and I admired the careful wordbuilding here in regard to the levels and how colors revealed a girl's status. There were also some great reveals concerning the real purpose of the ship, tight action scenes, and terrifying "out the airlock" sequences.
It was not difficult to understand Rain's motivations - she acts out of love for family and friends, even when Johnny tries to break her of the habit. I loved her strength.
At first I was resistant to the idea of Ben as a love interest, but he definitely grew on me. I might have even been a tiny bit misty-eyed at the end.
First off, let me say that if "new adult" ever includes genre fiction, then THE COLOR OF RAIN would be a good fit. It's quite a bit more mature than most YA (think Ellen Hopkins), but the grounded writing (which earns a Zombie Chicken Merit Badge) never sensationalizes what amounts to sex trafficking in space.
The main stage of THE COLOR OF RAIN is Johnny's spaceship and I admired the careful wordbuilding here in regard to the levels and how colors revealed a girl's status. There were also some great reveals concerning the real purpose of the ship, tight action scenes, and terrifying "out the airlock" sequences.
It was not difficult to understand Rain's motivations - she acts out of love for family and friends, even when Johnny tries to break her of the habit. I loved her strength.
At first I was resistant to the idea of Ben as a love interest, but he definitely grew on me. I might have even been a tiny bit misty-eyed at the end.
July 2, 2014
I didn't expect this book to be what it was.
My sister and I share a love of teen fiction, but she prefers the typical, paranormal, and romantic (i.e. vampire academy, etc, but thankfully not twilight) while I go for the more beautiful, serious or epic (Before I Fall, The Elementals, Hunger Games, Daughter of the Forest, etc).
When she picked up a few books last week, this is the only one that caught my interest, but I was not expecting the strange, sexual, survival journey that it became.
When it started out about her selling her virginity (i don't like this term or how/how often they use it, but whatevs) I was surprised by the sudden beginning but not all that interested. When two or three chapters in, shit got real, I was all in. And when her situation kept getting from "meh" to "ew" but she kept it straight-faced, I was digging it.
Some parts were predictable, a lot of parts weren't.
To start, there was Rains slow attraction to another guy. predictable. Her genuine attempts to escape and their outcomes? Not so predictable. I liked that. She was pure survival mode and I appreciated that too.
And the ending has a bitter sweet resolution that I was pretty content with.
My sister and I share a love of teen fiction, but she prefers the typical, paranormal, and romantic (i.e. vampire academy, etc, but thankfully not twilight) while I go for the more beautiful, serious or epic (Before I Fall, The Elementals, Hunger Games, Daughter of the Forest, etc).
When she picked up a few books last week, this is the only one that caught my interest, but I was not expecting the strange, sexual, survival journey that it became.
When it started out about her selling her virginity (i don't like this term or how/how often they use it, but whatevs) I was surprised by the sudden beginning but not all that interested. When two or three chapters in, shit got real, I was all in. And when her situation kept getting from "meh" to "ew" but she kept it straight-faced, I was digging it.
Some parts were predictable, a lot of parts weren't.
To start, there was Rains slow attraction to another guy. predictable. Her genuine attempts to escape and their outcomes? Not so predictable. I liked that. She was pure survival mode and I appreciated that too.
And the ending has a bitter sweet resolution that I was pretty content with.
December 3, 2014
I met the author while visiting VCFA, and picked up her newly published book because she was so excited about it. It sat on my shelf for over a year, until I finally picked it up the other day. The reason I didn't pick it up sooner is because the back of the book summary wasn't too informative so I kept putting it off. I'm REALLY glad that Goodreads has a more informative back-of-the-book summary.
Like others who have left reviews, I also don't think this book falls under the young adult category. But then, I have no idea where it should go. Possibly New Adult? Although I have no idea what that genre even is. I don't think even society knows what it is haha. But definitely, this is not a The Fault in Our Stars kind of book. It's really mature and deals with a lot of violent issues and things. Sooo...don't get it for your 13-year-old.
As for the book itself... I'm still processing it. I can't decide who I like and who I don't like. BUT, (and this is probably like a first), I really liked how the book ended. It was almost what I thought would happen, and yet McCarthy still twisted it so that it wasn't exactly how I expected it. Really well done.
Like others who have left reviews, I also don't think this book falls under the young adult category. But then, I have no idea where it should go. Possibly New Adult? Although I have no idea what that genre even is. I don't think even society knows what it is haha. But definitely, this is not a The Fault in Our Stars kind of book. It's really mature and deals with a lot of violent issues and things. Sooo...don't get it for your 13-year-old.
As for the book itself... I'm still processing it. I can't decide who I like and who I don't like. BUT, (and this is probably like a first), I really liked how the book ended. It was almost what I thought would happen, and yet McCarthy still twisted it so that it wasn't exactly how I expected it. Really well done.
February 7, 2017
Why is this book not a bestseller? Why was this book at the Dollar Tree? Why is this book not being made in to a movie? Hi, my name is Samantha and I loved this book. The Color of Rain is an edgy young adult/new adult novel that is just so unique from everything I've read in a long time. Cori McCarthy takes her readers seriously and didn't both to censor the edgy content to make the reading more pleasant and safe.
Rain may be one of my favorite characters ever. The fact that she was willing to do whatever it took to save her brother touched me as I too have a very close relationship with my brother. I loved that it was familial love that started the adventure in this book. One thing that I found interesting about this novel is I found that an interesting choice by the author. There doesn't appear to be a sequel coming along either.
Rain may be one of my favorite characters ever. The fact that she was willing to do whatever it took to save her brother touched me as I too have a very close relationship with my brother. I loved that it was familial love that started the adventure in this book. One thing that I found interesting about this novel is I found that an interesting choice by the author. There doesn't appear to be a sequel coming along either.
April 15, 2014
This is one of the best books I have read that has a sci-fi plot. Now I'm a college student and do not have a ton of extra time to read books, but I was captivated by this book and only stopped to sleep or eat. I started the night before in bed, and then finished the next morning around noon. Wow. The characters are interesting and you find yourself rooting for and hating them all in different spots in the book. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. The content is a little adult, but I think someone in high school could read it and it would be okay. Depends on their maturity I guess.
Fantastic book and fast moving. I was flipping pages and was transformed into another world while reading this book. The TV was on in the background but I was in the plot with Rain experiencing this new world with her.
Definitely a good read.
Fantastic book and fast moving. I was flipping pages and was transformed into another world while reading this book. The TV was on in the background but I was in the plot with Rain experiencing this new world with her.
Definitely a good read.
August 4, 2014
What a well written hidden little gem in the YA or NA genre. WHY ISNT ANYONE READING THIS?
The Color of Rain moved at a delightfully quick pace and by the time I was halfway through the book, I was like "damn there is still half a book left for more shit to go down". I wasn't sure what to make of Rain in the beginning but she grew on me as her desires sharpened and strengthened. She was kick-ass by the end of the book, entirely within control of what she knows she wants and needs to do. And I LOOOVED the writing, it was smart and to the point, describing every necessary scene or action with spot on metaphors or description. 'Twas vivid and lovely. Props to Cori McCarthy. This book is SO underrated or more accurately, under-discovered as there's hardly any buzz or knowledge of this beautiful gem.
The Color of Rain moved at a delightfully quick pace and by the time I was halfway through the book, I was like "damn there is still half a book left for more shit to go down". I wasn't sure what to make of Rain in the beginning but she grew on me as her desires sharpened and strengthened. She was kick-ass by the end of the book, entirely within control of what she knows she wants and needs to do. And I LOOOVED the writing, it was smart and to the point, describing every necessary scene or action with spot on metaphors or description. 'Twas vivid and lovely. Props to Cori McCarthy. This book is SO underrated or more accurately, under-discovered as there's hardly any buzz or knowledge of this beautiful gem.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews