Sunshine After the Rain: Aston Villa’s Rise from the Championship to the Champions League by Rob Carless stands as a definitive narrative chronicling one of English football’s most stirring resurgences. Carless, noted for his deep connection to the game and previous works such as Three Games in May and Under the Floodlights!, turns his storyteller’s gaze to Aston Villa FC’s tumultuous journey from relegation in 2016 to their ambitious return to the Premier League and a coveted Champions League spot. Drawing on interviews with managers, players, and lifelong supporters, Carless spotlights the raw resilience that defines the modern Villan spirit.
The book delves into the club’s darkest days following Martin O’Neill’s abrupt departure and the ensuing chaos, marked by revolving door management and ownership instability. These were years fraught with mid-table uncertainty and heart-breaking play-off exits that tested the mettle of Aston Villa’s loyal fans. Carless ensures every pivotal match during the Championship era is vividly brought to life, weaving through the struggles of survival, financial brinkmanship, and the relentless quest to restore pride at Villa Park.
Sunshine After the Rain celebrates the key figures who engineered Villa’s dramatic resurgence, from Dean Smith’s inspiring leadership—himself a boyhood fan—to the tactical brilliance of Unai Emery, who delivered European football back to Birmingham. Carless’s trademark research and evocative prose shine in this book, giving voice to the unsung heroes and sharing first-hand recollections that bridge the gap between pitch and stands. The narrative extends beyond results, capturing the powerful emotion and historic weight felt by every supporter as Villa fought their way back amongst Europe’s elite.
Rob Carless brings immense pedigree as a football writer, his previous books captivating fans of Manchester United and the Italian national team, while his bi-weekly podcast, The Tealey Sayin Something Show, has further cemented his standing in British football circles. Sunshine After the Rain cements Carless’s ability to dissect not just the tactical evolution of Aston Villa, but the spirit that makes English football unique, making this a must-read for any fan keen to understand the lifeblood of the beautiful game.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Publisher: Fascinating Selection of Books – A Must See!
Published: March 9, 2026
Price: £19.99
Hardback: 288 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0241726716
Dimensions: 22.2 x 14.4 x 2.5 (cm)
