Lisa De Jong's When It Rains is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of moving on after trauma. The narrative centers around the life of the protagonist, who grapples with the aftermath of a life-altering event that has left her emotionally scarred and hesitant to embrace new relationships. The blurb sets the stage for a story that promises to delve deep into the intricacies of friendship, the weight of secrets, and the healing power of love.

From the outset, De Jong introduces us to the protagonist's relationship with Beau Bennett, her childhood best friend and first crush. Their bond is palpable, filled with nostalgia and unspoken feelings. However, the narrative quickly reveals that something has changed, and the protagonist is unable to reciprocate Beau's feelings due to a traumatic past that she has yet to confront. This dynamic sets the tone for the emotional depth of the story, as the protagonist's internal struggles are mirrored in her interactions with Beau.

As the story unfolds, we witness the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and healing. The arrival of Asher Hunt, a new character with a magnetic presence, serves as a catalyst for change. Asher's carefree attitude and charm provide a stark contrast to the protagonist's guarded nature. He becomes a beacon of hope, helping her navigate the murky waters of her past while encouraging her to embrace the present. De Jong skillfully crafts Asher's character, making him not just a love interest but a pivotal figure in the protagonist's journey toward healing.

One of the most compelling themes in When It Rains is the struggle between holding onto the past and the desire to move forward. The protagonist's reluctance to open up about her trauma is a relatable aspect of her character, reflecting the real-life challenges many face when trying to heal from emotional wounds. De Jong does an excellent job of portraying this internal conflict, allowing readers to empathize with the protagonist's fears and hesitations. The tension between her feelings for Beau and her growing attraction to Asher adds another layer of complexity to her emotional landscape.

The author also explores the theme of friendship and its transformative power. Beau's unwavering support and love for the protagonist highlight the importance of having a solid support system during difficult times. However, the story also emphasizes that sometimes, the people we love the most can inadvertently hold us back from healing. This duality is beautifully illustrated as the protagonist navigates her feelings for both Beau and Asher, ultimately leading her to confront her past and the secrets she has kept hidden.

Character development is a strong suit in De Jong's writing. The protagonist evolves from a girl burdened by her past into a young woman who learns to embrace her vulnerabilities. Asher's character serves as a mirror for her growth; his confidence and acceptance of his own flaws encourage her to confront her fears. The chemistry between the two is palpable, and their relationship is built on mutual understanding and respect, making it a refreshing take on young adult romance.

Moreover, De Jong's writing style is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the emotional turmoil of the characters. The prose is laced with raw honesty, making the protagonist's struggles feel authentic and relatable. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, allowing for moments of tension and reflection that keep readers invested in the outcome of the characters' journeys.

As the plot progresses, the revelation of the protagonist's secret adds a layer of suspense that propels the narrative forward. This twist not only challenges her relationships but also forces her to confront the very issues she has been avoiding. De Jong masterfully weaves this element into the story, ensuring that it feels organic rather than contrived. The emotional stakes are raised, and readers are left on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the characters will navigate the fallout.

In comparison to other contemporary young adult novels that tackle similar themes, such as Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us or Tammara Webber's Easy, When It Rains stands out for its focus on the healing process and the importance of self-acceptance. While both Hoover and Webber explore the complexities of love and trauma, De Jong's narrative is particularly poignant in its portrayal of friendship as a means of healing. The relationships in When It Rains are not just romantic; they are deeply rooted in the characters' shared experiences and emotional growth.

Overall, When It Rains is a beautifully crafted story that resonates with anyone who has ever faced adversity and sought solace in love and friendship. Lisa De Jong's ability to create relatable characters and weave a compelling narrative makes this book a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and young adult fiction. The emotional depth, combined with the themes of healing and self-discovery, ensures that readers will be left reflecting on their own journeys long after they turn the last page.

In conclusion, When It Rains is not just a story about love; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of connection. De Jong's exploration of trauma, friendship, and the courage to embrace change makes this novel a standout in the genre. It is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope for a new beginning.