The Storm by Virginia Bergin (Book #2 in The Rain series)

Thanks to the ARC I received at BEA (with a different cover), I was able to continue reading the story of Ruby, a self-absorbed teen who is forced to deal with the complexities of a post-apocalyptic world. Ruby's life fell apart when a microbe arrived on Earth and contaminated ALL the water sources. While it did nothing to animals, people who came into contact with even a raindrop of water ended up dying a painfully horrific death. 

In the first book, H2O, Ruby is so unaware that she continues to care more about her outfits and makeup than finding food or nonhazardous beverages. Unlike the first story, Ruby now seems to be maturing a little bit. She still tells her story via a stream of consciousness narrative complete with side thoughts and splotched out expletives, but her concern for Princess necessarily forces her into a caregiver's role, albeit the bare minimum of care.

What did I like? The story seems to unfold naturally, complete with all the side jaunts and redirection one finds in a normal life. I also liked the way Ruby's relationships with other characters evolved. These were not perfect romances or sibling ideals. Rather, these were the odd connections that developed as a result of her new life circumstances, and that made the story more genuine and appealing.

What didn't I like? Ruby's character is still too whiny and self-absorbed. Plus, she glosses over scientific concepts critical to her survival with a childish indifference. However, if you can accept the totality of her teenage persona, you will definitely enjoy the tale.

Enjoy, my friends... But don't drink the water yet!