Above the Rain

This novel explores the intersection of lives across time and geography. Above the Rain highlights the enduring impact of the past on the present.

In Above the Rain, Víctor del Árbol weaves a compelling narrative that intricately connects the lives of its characters across different timelines and geographies. The story begins in a nursing home in Tarifa, where Miguel and Helena, both at a stage in life where they feel forgotten and disconnected from their families, find themselves confronted with the sudden suicide of a fellow resident. This tragic event sparks a desire for change, leading them to embark on an unexpected journey. They choose to confront their pasts rather than dwell on lost opportunities, revealing the resilience of the human spirit even in the twilight years of life.

Simultaneously, the novel introduces Yasmina, a young woman caught between her dreams and the harsh realities of her family life in Malmö. As a child of Moroccan immigrants, Yasmina grapples with the expectations of her authoritarian grandfather and her mother's disdain for her choices. Working for a man with dubious connections complicates her life further, especially as she navigates a secret affair with a powerful police official. This dual narrative of Yasmina and the elderly couple illustrates the generational and cultural divides that shape their experiences.

As the characters' paths intertwine, Above the Rain delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of history on personal lives. Del Árbol's masterful storytelling reveals how the past continues to influence the present, culminating in a breathtaking exploration of love, loss, and the quest for redemption.