Anne Rainey's Blog, page 6

Zar- Kindle Unlimited!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Y2DJYZ4/

You can get Zar through Kindle Unlimited!

Zar: The Zenarians, book 1
paranormal romance--novel length

They're from different worlds. And they're about to collide...

Callie Wilson has exactly what she’s always wanted. A luxury apartment with a terrific view of the city. The coveted position as CEO of her father’s billion-dollar health supplement company. She’s worked hard and it should make her feel as if she’s on top of the world. It’s all finally paying off. Too bad she’s more alone and depressed than ever. When a handsome silver-haired stranger shows up at her apartment and kidnaps her to bring her before his king, Callie’s first instinct is to escape. Until she meets said king. He’s the biggest, sexiest dark-haired man she’s ever met. And he just happens to have wings. Like the big, badass kind of wings. Is he an angel? If so, she’s definitely going to hell because her thoughts are anything but pure.

The Zenarians arrived on Earth eleven hundred years ago when a warring race of predators invaded their home world. They’ve lived in secret ever since. As king of the Zenarians, Zar’s first priority has always been the well-being of his people. When it becomes clear that they’re in dire need of a new form of genetically modified ginseng—and the only company selling the product has just taken it off the market—Zar makes it his number one priority to rectify the situation. Zar knows that Callie is the key to achieving his goal. When he meets the blonde beauty face-to-face he’s drawn to her in a way that sends his libido into overdrive. For the first time in Zar’s life, he puts his own needs before that of his people. And he needs Callie.
​
The instant Callie strokes Zar’s wings a change comes over the silver-eyed king. Now he’s talking about soulmates and claiming she belongs to him. Her brain is telling her to run, but her body isn’t in a listening mood. And it isn't long before Callie surrenders, body and soul.

Read Chapter One

Zar--Out Now!

Dear Readers, This is a quick note to let you all know that ZAR: The Zenarians, book 1 is now available for purchase in ebook and print! It's also part of the Kindle Unlimited Program!

 

Zar

The Zenarians, book 1 paranormal romance--novel length
They're from different worlds. And they're about to collide...

Callie Wilson has exactly what she’s always wanted. A luxury apartment with a terrific view of the city. The coveted position as CEO of her father’s billion-dollar health supplement company. She’s worked hard and it should make her feel as if she’s on top of the world. It’s all finally paying off. Too bad she’s more alone and depressed than ever. When a handsome silver-haired stranger shows up at her apartment and kidnaps her to bring her before his king, Callie’s first instinct is to escape. Until she meets said king. He’s the biggest, sexiest dark-haired man she’s ever met. And he just happens to have wings. Like the big, badass kind of wings. Is he an angel? If so, she’s definitely going to hell because her thoughts are anything but pure.

The Zenarians arrived on Earth eleven hundred years ago when a warring race of predators invaded their home world. They’ve lived in secret ever since. As king of the Zenarians, Zar’s first priority has always been the well-being of his people. When it becomes clear that they’re in dire need of a new form of genetically modified ginseng—and the only company selling the product has just taken it off the market—Zar makes it his number one priority to rectify the situation. Zar knows that Callie is the key to achieving his goal. When he meets the blonde beauty face-to-face he’s drawn to her in a way that sends his libido into overdrive. For the first time in Zar’s life, he puts his own needs before that of his people. And he needs Callie.
​
The instant Callie strokes Zar’s wings a change comes over the silver-eyed king. Now he’s talking about soulmates and claiming she belongs to him. Her brain is telling her to run, but her body isn’t in a listening mood. And it isn't long before Callie surrenders, body and soul.Read an Excerpt

Sneak a peek at the second book, KADE, coming out in February!
Happy reading,Anne Raineyhttp://annerainey.com

October Release!

Happy October!

The fall weather is here already. Football Saturdays, warm cardigans and pumpkin flavored everything, lol. Are you a pumpkin spice kind of person? I like the occasional latte, but I'm not obsessed (that's my story and I'm sticking to it, lol).

This book cover though! I'm positively in love with it! Isn't it gorgeous? Thanks to my talented daughter. Katilyn is a new mom, a busy makeup artist and now my graphic designer. I'm one lucky mama, right?

Anyway, I have a brand new release coming out on October 22nd. I'm venturing into the exciting world of paranormal romance with this one and I'm super pumped about it. ZAR, is the first book in my Zenarians series. All the books in this series will be novel length.

Zar is the king of his people. What he wants he gets. But when he meets the headstrong Callie Wilson that arrogance gets him into some seriously hot water. You can read more about Zar and Callie below. Also, I've uploaded the entire first chapter of Zar to my website for you to enjoy.

But what is this new series about? Who are the Zenarians? Well, in a nutshell, they're from a distant planet known as Zenaria. They were forced to flee their world when a warring race, the Grasheem, invaded. As you can image, a whole lot of death and destruction followed. Now, the Zenarians live on earth in secret. They can fly, have enhanced vision, and they will move mountains to claim their soulmate.

  pre-order now!

Zar
The Zenarians, book 1 (novel length)

They're from different worlds. And they're about to collide...

Callie Wilson has exactly what she’s always wanted. A luxury apartment with a terrific view of the city. The coveted position as CEO of her father’s billion-dollar health supplement company. She’s worked hard and it should make her feel as if she’s on top of the world. It’s all finally paying off. Too bad she’s more alone and depressed than ever. When a handsome silver-haired stranger shows up at her apartment and kidnaps her to bring her before his king, Callie’s first instinct is to escape. Until she meets said king. He’s the biggest, sexiest dark-haired man she’s ever met. And he just happens to have wings. Like the big, badass kind of wings. Is he an angel? If so, she’s definitely going to hell because her thoughts are anything but pure.

The Zenarians arrived on Earth eleven hundred years ago when a warring race of predators invaded their home world. They’ve lived in secret ever since. As king of the Zenarians, Zar’s first priority has always been the well-being of his people. When it becomes clear that they’re in dire need of a new form of genetically modified ginseng—and the only company selling the product has just taken it off the market—Zar makes it his number one priority to rectify the situation. Zar knows that Callie is the key to achieving his goal. When he meets the blonde beauty face-to-face he’s drawn to her in a way that sends his libido into overdrive. For the first time in Zar’s life, he puts his own needs before that of his people. And he needs Callie.
​
The instant Callie strokes Zar’s wings a change comes over the silver-eyed king. Now he’s talking about soulmates and claiming she belongs to him. Her brain is telling her to run, but her body isn’t in a listening mood. And it isn't long before Callie surrenders, body and soul.Read an Excerpt
Pre-order here
Sneak a peek at the second book, KADE, coming out in February!
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT--->>
For all you diehard contemporary romance readers, I have started a new series titled Men of Silverlake. I'm planning 5 books in this spicy small town romantic saga. The first book, MADDOX, will release in December. You can read more about Maddox and Beth (and gaze at the pretty cover) HERE Also, a note about Men of Summer, they are all novel length books. Not novellas! You all wanted longer stories and I aim to please. :)

Happy Reading, Anne Rainey Author Daringly passionate romance
W: www.annerainey.com E: anne@annerainey.com [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error]

Link Correction -- Accidental Attraction Anthology

 
Dear Readers,

I'm so sorry for the double blog posts. The wrong buy links were sent out by mistake. Below you'll find the RIGHT ones. In my defense it's been about 5 years since I've had a new release. I'm rusty, lol

Thank you for your patience. :)





  My story is about sexy bad boy Mac Braden and the woman intent on taming him, Alyssa Saint. Sparks really fly with these two. I enjoyed their love story.

Mac’s Vow by Anne Rainey He’s watched her. Ached for her. Now he’ll have her.
Mac grew up on the streets and knows all about the ugly side of human nature. Sweet was never in the cards for him. Alyssa thinks he’s a hero. A good guy. And that’s exactly why Mac swears to keep his hands off. She’s his best friend’s baby sister and he doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as her. But when their paths unexpectedly collide and Mac sees the black eye marring Alyssa’s delicate face, every protective instinct kicks in. He might not have wanted to play her hero, but shit happens. Now, she’ll belong to him and he’ll break anyone who dares touch her.
Alyssa has loved bad-boy Mac Braden since the ninth grade. So of course he avoids her like the freaking plague. When Alyssa’s abusive ex-boyfriend decides to use her as a punching bag Mac comes to her rescue. He’s gentle and attentive as he nurses her back to health. For the first time in years Alyssa is determined to know what it feels like to be loved by the dark and brooding loner. But will she be left in pieces once the dust settles and she no longer needs a protector?








Happy Reading,

Anne Rainey
http://annerainey.com/

New Release!

MAC'S VOW (ACCIDENTAL ATTRACTIONS ANTHOLOGY) IS OUT!

Accidental Attractions Anthology


This huge is anthology is available for only .99 cents!

Mac’s Vow by Anne Rainey He’s watched her. Ached for her. Now he’ll have her.
Mac grew up on the streets and knows all about the ugly side of human nature. Sweet was never in the cards for him. Alyssa thinks he’s a hero. A good guy. And that’s exactly why Mac swears to keep his hands off. She’s his best friend’s baby sister and he doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as her. But when their paths unexpectedly collide and Mac sees the black eye marring Alyssa’s delicate face, every protective instinct kicks in. He might not have wanted to play her hero, but shit happens. Now, she’ll belong to him and he’ll break anyone who dares touch her.
Alyssa has loved bad-boy Mac Braden since the ninth grade. So of course he avoids her like the freaking plague. When Alyssa’s abusive ex-boyfriend decides to use her as a punching bag Mac comes to her rescue. He’s gentle and attentive as he nurses her back to health. For the first time in years Alyssa is determined to know what it feels like to be loved by the dark and brooding loner. But will she be left in pieces once the dust settles and she no longer needs a protector?

Read an excerpt!





Happy Reading,

Anne Rainey
http://annerainey.com

New Anthology and More!

Dear Readers, I'm back with a new release. It's been too long since I've been able to say those words and boy does it feel good! I took time off from my writing after my father got sick. He passed away last year and around that same time my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I've said it before and I'll say it again, getting old isn't for sissies! A bit of happy news, my oldest daughter found out she's pregnant with our first grandchild. A boy! I'm a very proud grandma-to-be! :)

So, yes, it's been a busy few years for me, but things are beginning to get back on track and I have a lot of fun stuff coming out very soon. First, I want to let you all know about an anthology coming out September 10th. Accidental Attractions will have stories by Desiree Holt, Nicole Morgan, Krista Ames, Erin Lee and more! It's only .99 cents!

  My story is about sexy bad boy Mac Braden and the woman intent on taming him, Alyssa Saint. Sparks really fly with these two. I enjoyed their love story.

Mac’s Vow by Anne Rainey He’s watched her. Ached for her. Now he’ll have her. Mac grew up on the streets and knows all about the ugly side of human nature. Sweet was never in the cards for him. Alyssa thinks he’s a hero. A good guy. And that’s exactly why Mac swears to keep his hands off. She’s his best friend’s baby sister and he doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as her. But when their paths unexpectedly collide and Mac sees the black eye marring Alyssa’s delicate face, every protective instinct kicks in. He might not have wanted to play her hero, but shit happens. Now, she’ll belong to him and he’ll break anyone who dares touch her. Alyssa has loved bad-boy Mac Braden since the ninth grade. So of course he avoids her like the freaking plague. When Alyssa’s abusive ex-boyfriend decides to use her as a punching bag Mac comes to her rescue. He’s gentle and attentive as he nurses her back to health. For the first time in years Alyssa is determined to know what it feels like to be loved by the dark and brooding loner. But will she be left in pieces once the dust settles and she no longer needs a protector?




 
Also I've dipped my toes into the paranormal romance world. Scary, right? :)  Zar is a novel length steamy paranormal and part of a 10 book series I've very carefully mapped out. Zar's book is finished and in the capable hands of my editor as I write this. I've already started working on Kade, book 2. As soon as I have a cover and release date I'll share it with you all first. In the meantime, here's a bit more about Zar and Callie's story.

Zar
The Zenarians, book 1
(novel length)

They're from different worlds. And they're about to collide... Callie Wilson has exactly what she’s always wanted. A luxury apartment with a terrific view of the city. The coveted position as CEO of her father’s billion-dollar health supplement company. She’s worked hard and it should make her feel as if she’s on top of the world. It’s all finally paying off. Too bad she’s more alone and depressed than ever. When a handsome silver-haired stranger shows up at her apartment and kidnaps her to bring her before his king, Callie’s first instinct is to escape. Until she meets said king. He’s the biggest, sexiest dark-haired man she’s ever met. And he just happens to have wings. Like the big, badass kind of wings. Is he an angel? If so, she’s definitely going to hell because her thoughts are anything but pure. The Zenarians arrived on Earth eleven hundred years ago when a warring race of predators invaded their home world. They’ve lived in secret ever since. As king of the Zenarians, Zar’s first priority has always been the well-being of his people. When it becomes clear that they’re in dire need of a new form of genetically modified ginseng—and the only company selling the product has just taken it off the market—Zar makes it his number one priority to rectify the situation. Zar knows that Callie is the key to achieving his goal. When he meets the blonde beauty face-to-face he’s drawn to her in a way that sends his libido into overdrive. For the first time in Zar’s life, he puts his own needs before that of his people. And he needs Callie.​The instant Callie strokes Zar’s wings a change comes over the silver-eyed king. Now he’s talking about soulmates and claiming she belongs to him. Her brain is telling her to run, but her body isn’t in a listening mood. And it isn't long before Callie surrenders, body and soul.   
Happy Reading,

Anne Rainey
http://annerainey.com/  For all my current and upcoming releases check out my website!
 

On Sale for a Limited Time

Dear Readers,I'm very excited to announce that all of my previous Samhain Publishing books have found a new home. Entangled Publishing has created gorgeous new covers for all 19 books and they are now on sale for the amazing low price of .99! Aren't these covers beautiful?

Man-Maid series, book 2
on sale for .99



Man-Maid series, book 1
 on sale for .99


Blackwater series: each book on sale for .99!

You can head over to my author page on Entangled's website to see ALL the snazzy new covers and read the first chapters HERE





Also I wanted to let you all know that I am currently writing the third book in the Man-Maid series, No Regrets. It's a sexy m/f/m erotic romance. When I have more details on a release date I'll share it with you all first. In the meantime, here's a bit more about it:

No Regrets
Man-Maid series, book 3
blurb:
 One hot weekend is only the beginning…​ AJ Fields has always been the responsible one. Since she was a little girl she’s been forced to hide her mother’s alcoholism from the outside world. When she finally gets her mom to agree to a month at a rehab center, AJ is suddenly given a taste of freedom. For the first time, she’s worry free. When Ames Dair invites her out to his lakeside cabin at South Fork State Park, AJ leaps at the chance to let her hair down. She doesn’t expect to find their friend Seth Berringer there as well. It soon becomes crystal clear that the men have more than boating on their dirty minds. And after a few scorching kisses, AJ is more than ready to submit to their wickedness. With Man-Maid Cleaning Service swiftly becoming a household name, Ames and Seth are more than ready for a little R and R. And judging by the exhaustion on their friend AJ’s face it’s clear she’s in serious need as well. They’ve watched her selflessly take care of her drunken mother, all while attempting to keep up appearances. Hell, they’ve wanted AJ for months, but fear of wrecking their friendship has kept the men from acting. Once they get her all to themselves for the weekend, though, good intentions go out the window. For now, they plan to take full advantage of every blissful second. But when the weekend comes to an end, the guys realize just how crazy they are for AJ. The new challenge will be convincing the stubborn woman that they have something worth holding


Unedited excerpt:
 
Ames couldn’t speak. His eyes were glued to the creamy swell of flesh that had been revealed by the slowly loosening towel. She had one end tucked into her cleavage, but the tuck was coming undone. Ah damn, that was sexy. His pants became unbearably tight and he pleaded to the gods for the tuck to come undone.Unfortunately for him, AJ saw where his eyes were trained and she quickly wrapped her arms around herself, putting a stop to his perusal.

He took a step forward. Their bodies touched, but only barely. “Soon you won’t hide your pretty curves from my view.” He watched closely as her cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink. “Instead, you’ll reveal every inch. Willingly.” She appeared ready to protest, but he rode right over her. “I promise you’ll know a kind of pleasure that you’ve only dreamed about, princess.”

AJ didn’t know what to make of that, or of the sudden warmth that engulfed her body at his words. Instead, AJ focused on the endearment. She’d never heard Ames call any of his past lovers that nickname. It made her feel as if she were special. As if she mattered to him. “Why do you call me that?”

He frowned. “What? Princess?” At her nod, his gaze slid over her in a lazy caress. “Because if you were mine I’d treat you like fucking royalty.”

“Oh.” What the hell was she supposed to say to that? When he turned to leave, AJ stopped him with her hand on his arm. She became momentarily distracted by the thicck muscles of his forearm. If only she were brave enough to squeeze.

“Uh, can you check under the bed, please?” She looked away, anywhere but directly into his sexy silver gaze.
These days Ames tended to stare at her as if she hung the moon. As if she were the only woman on earth. As if he wanted to spend eternity loving her in ways she’d only imagined in her deepest, darkest fantasies. When Ames gave her that look AJ ached to do just about anything for him. That damned look was dangerous.

“I’m not real fond of mice,” she admitted, hating herself for showing even that much weakness to a man as self-sufficient as Ames.

He smiled down at her. “I could, but it’ll cost you.”
She squinted. “What do you want?”

He leaned close, his hot breath against her ear. “A kiss.”
Her heartbeat kicked up as several sensual images filled her head. Had she really thought she could resist him?
What an idiot.
And if you haven't read the first two in the Man-Maid series, here's a sexy excerpt from the first book, No Turning Back:

Excerpt:
“Come in,” he urged as he took her hand and tugged her inside. He indicated his naked chest and said, “I spilled sauce on my shirt and was about to get a different one when you knocked.”
“No need, really,” she said, unable to drag her gaze away from the lovely display of tanned muscle.
As he shut the door behind him, Jensen looped an arm around her back and nudged her toward him. He dipped his head and kissed her. Marquetta surrendered, wrapped her arms around his neck and sank into it for all she was worth. There’d been no one since Sheldon. It’d been too long since she’d felt a man’s warm touch. Too long since she’d tasted heaven in a man’s strong arms.
He lifted his head an inch and whispered, “You came for me the other night.”
His smile was predatory. The man was lethal, that was all there was to it. Her gaze quickly darted away. “Don’t remind me,” she muttered.
“Don’t be embarrassed,” he said. “It was beautiful. You’re beautiful.”
She had no words, and, thankfully, Jensen didn’t seem to require any. His lips brushed hers once more, careful and restrained, as if he was afraid she would bolt if he let his passion have free rein. But she wasn’t going anywhere. She wanted him. Every powerful, male inch of him. She wanted it all, this man the wild, untamed one she sensed lurking beneath the surface.
Without giving her brain a chance to talk her out of it, Marquetta took control of the kiss, sliding her tongue into his mouth. He groaned and slipped his own tongue between her lips. He sucked on hers, and her pussy throbbed at the erotic sensation. Marquetta’s willpower evaporated.
Jensen pulled away and stared down at her, dark desire etched into his rugged face. His dangerous appearance thoroughly captivated her. A shiver ran the length of her spine.
“You’re playing with fire, little girl.”

Buy From:





Happy Reading,

Anne Rainey
http://annerainey.com/books For all my current and upcoming releases check out my website!


And feel free to email me if you have questions about my stories.
 I always enjoy hearing from readers! annerainey11@gmail.com

Wade's Way: Installment 5

Hi Readers,

I'm seriously behind on uploading this installment. I'm so sorry about that. Life sometimes gets in the way. At any rate, here is the latest chapter of Bride and Wade's story. Enjoy! :)

Wade's Way by Anne Rainey

After a car accident leaves Bride Donner badly scarred and her boyfriend dumps her, she’s more than ready to retreat from the pain of living. When she inherits her dear grandmother’s large, old home in the country, Bride knows it’s the perfect place to do some serious soul searching.  But when she hires arrogant contractor Wade Jackson to restore the regal beauty, hiding is the last thing on his mind. In fact, the dangerously sexy man proves—over and over—that it’s not just the house he has designs on.  Very soon, Bride lets down her defenses and finds herself doing things...Wade’s Way.


 (please be aware that these installments are freshly typed and unedited)


Chapter Five
 
It’d been several weeks since Bride had hired Wade and Garrett’s Building and Remodeling. One part of the house or another seemed to be in a constant state of disorder, but the progress they were making was remarkable. Wade’s crew worked tirelessly. She had no complaints with the quality or the speed of the project. She kept in contact daily with her mom too. Although Bride tried to get her mom and Aunt Joan’s opinion on various things regarding the remodel, it was clear neither woman wanted anything to do with the house and were content to leave all the decisions up to her. They’d also discovered that her grandmother had left her mom and Aunt Joan a fairly decent amount of money in life insurance. And like the house, they wanted nothing to do with the money. Bride had tried to talk them both into putting the money to good use. They could pay off bills or go on an extended vacation, but they were absolutely determined not to touch it. In the end, both sisters agreed to give Bride the money for the remodel instead.
 
Now, Bride stood outside staring at Wade. She tried to drag her gaze off the man. Really she did. Damn, the view was just too delicious. Wade stood on a ladder, talking about the window shutters. She couldn’t concentrate on his words because her mind was mush. The old, worn jeans he wore rode low around his hips. She could see just a hint of the waistband of his black boxers. The white t-shirt he’d had on when he’d arrived early was now tucked into his back pocket. His strong, powerful back glistened golden tan in the noonday sun. She had the aching need to reach out and stroke him. Any part of him would work. His back. His muscular biceps. His delectable butt. Something.
 
“So, what do you think?” he said, as he turned to look down at her.
 
She mentally smacked herself back to the here and now. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”
 
He frowned at her. “Are you feeling okay? You look a little flushed.”
 
I’m merely lusting after your amazing bod. That’s not at all embarrassing. “Oh, it must be the heat.” She waved her hand, fanning herself.
 
Between one breath and the next, Wade came down off the ladder. “Come on,” he took her by the hand and tugged her around to the front of the house and escorted her up the steps. “You need water.”
 
He held the screen door for her and she entered. “Water sounds perfect,” she said as he released her. She immediately missed the connection. As she walked through the house, Bride was acutely aware of how closely Wade followed behind. His presence seemed to reach deep inside of her, tugging at something that had laid dormant for too long.
 
Bride grabbed two cold bottles from the fridge and handed one to Wade. He unscrewed the cap and gulped half the contents before saying, “Damn, I needed that.”
 
She took a drink of hers more for show than anything else. It wasn’t the heat that was causing her throat to go dry and her blood pressure to rise. That honor belonged to Wade. “So, you were saying about the shutters,” she prompted, hoping to get her mind back on business and off of pleasure. And Wade would be immensely pleasurable, she was sure of it.
 
“Yeah,” he replied as he leaned against the counter. “I think we should replace the old, wooden shutters with vinyl. They’re a lot less upkeep.”
 
“That sounds perfect.” She looked around the house and smiled. “This house has been a lot of work, I know, but the longer I’m here the more I love it.”
 
Wade looked around the kitchen before saying, “Are you going to sell once it’s complete?”
 
“Well, the decision ultimately lies with my mom and Aunt Joan.” She sighed. “I suspect they want nothing to do with it. So, in the end they’ll want to sell.”
 
He crooked his head to one side. “Do you mind if I ask why they hate this place so much?”
 
“It’s not the house,” she started to explain. “It’s the memories that reside inside this big, beauty that give them so much trouble.”
 
He finished off his water and tossed the bottle into the trash. “Not a happy childhood, huh?”
 
Bride pulled out a chair and sat. “I don’t know the details. Mom never talks about any of that, but I’ve been going through my grandmother’s things and she’s kept so many childhood mementos. I can’t believe that a woman who would save all that stuff didn’t at least care about her children a little bit.”
 
“Maybe she had regrets in the end,” He said as he moved to the table and sat down across from her. “Will you show your mom the things your finding?”
 
“Yes, I think it would help give her…closure.” She shrugged. “If she still wants to toss everything after that it’s her choice, I suppose.”
 
He looked at the other end of the table where her laptop sat open and several papers were scattered about. “Is all the noise from the work interrupting your work?”
 
Bride smiled. “Goodness no. And if it does get too loud, that’s what the headphones are for.” She picked them up and said, “I put these on and the whole world drops away. Then it’s just me and my laptop.”
 
“That seems sort of lonely though.” His voice softened. “A woman as pretty as you shouldn’t be trapped in this giant house all the time by herself. She’s bound to go a little stir crazy.”
 
She squinted at him. “Did you just use a line on me?”
 
He chuckled. “Maybe,” he admitted. “What I’m trying to say is—even though it’s totally unprofessional—would you like to go to dinner with me on Friday? I know of a really great seafood restaurant in town.”
 
A date with Wade. God, how badly she wanted to say yes. Bride’s heart sped up at the idea of being alone with the man. Then she remembered her face, and the horrible scar. Could she really go out to a restaurant with him, knowing that everyone would stare at her? She went into town all the time and had to endure the gawking from strangers. Somehow she knew it’d be so much worse if Wade was privy to her embarrassment. The very last thing she wanted from him was pity. She couldn’t take it if he pitied her.
 
“I’m not sure that’s a good idea,” Bride answered, as she stood and went to the sink. “As you said, it isn’t professional.” She started putting away the few breakfast dishes she’d washed earlier for no other reason but to avoid Wade’s penetrating gaze. A hand closed over her shoulder and tugged. She turned and Wade stood there frowning down at her. His nearness overpowered her senses. He still had his shirt off and his chest beckoned her to reach out and stroke his pecs, then lower to his hard rock abs. She longed to dip her fingers beneath the waistband of his jeans. But Bride wasn’t that brave in reality. That was just the make-believe Bride talking.
 
“How come I feel like you really want to say yes to me.” He tapped her nose. “Do you think I bite, sweetheart?”
 
She couldn’t look him in the eye. Not that staring at his massive chest was any better. “I’m sure I have no idea what you mean.”
   
He cupped her chin in his palm and gently coaxed her to gaze toward his. “It’s the scar, isn’t it?” he asked. “Do you think it bothers me?”
 
The tenderness in his eyes nearly did her in. “Maybe it doesn’t bother you now, but people stare, Wade. They stare and they don’t care if it’s hurtful. They whisper behind their hands at the poor girl with the messed up face. I really don’t think you want to deal with all that.”
 
His hand moved from her chin to her cheek where he stroked the jagged line with a calloused finger. His touch zapped all her strength. She no longer had the will to deny him. “If people stare it’s because they see a beautiful woman,” he murmured. “And they’ll know I’m a lucky son-of-a-bitch because she’s with me.”
 
That did it. Crap. How could she say no to a statement like that? “Okay, but I did warn you. Remember that later.”
 
His smile lit up the room. “I’ll pick you up Friday. Seven work for you?”
 
She nodded, unable to speak past the lump in her throat. At that moment, Garrett walked in and started going on about something in the cellar. She caught the words pipesand older than time, but Bride was beyond the ability to think straight. When was the last time a man had made her weak in the knees? She couldn’t remember.
 
After the brothers left the room, Bride took a deep breath. Okay, she was going on a date with Wade and it was going to be fine. Better than fine, it was going to be amazing. Her heart began to race as excitement skittered up and down her spine. Real excitement, which was something she hadn’t experienced in months. She grinned, and the movement sent a shaft of pain up the side of her face. Bride turned and caught just a hint of her reflection in the kitchen window. Her scar seemed to be bigger and uglier than ever. As if mocking her.
 
Could she really do this? She pictured a crowded restaurant and all eyes glued to her. And then Bride thought of Wade’s gentle smile and warm touch and knew that she needed to at least try. She couldn’t sit in her grandmother’s house the rest of her life. Wade was right, it wasn’t healthy to stay locked away from the world. Isn’t that exactly what her grandmother had done? She had shut herself off from everyone. Where had that gotten her? She’d died alone.
 
“That’s not going to be me,” she mumbled to herself. But for good measure she did send up a quick prayer. God, please don’t let this date be a disastrous mistake.



A Touch of Amber-- February 2016!
http://annerainey.com

Loving Amber is now on Kobo!

Hi Readers,

Loving Amber is now on Kobo! https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/loving-amber

Chapter One 
Amber tapped out another e-mail, then sat back and picked up her coffee mug. She tipped back the last cold remnants before going over her schedule for the day. It was six in the morning, and she had most of the office to herself. She liked it that way. The quiet let her think clearly. Still, the early mornings and late nights were beginning to wear on her. In fact, she couldn’t think of the last time she’d had a vacation. It’d been at least two years. Her cell phone rang, and she peered down at the screen. Rachel, the only other person she knew up and about at this ungodly hour. She’d met Rachel in grade school. She’d been the shy girl in study hall reading Shakespeare, and not because it was a school assignment either. Amber had been intrigued and struck up a conversation. They’d been friends ever since.

Amber picked up the phone and hit the talk button. “Let me guess, you’re at the Brew already, waiting for that hot cop to show so you can ogle him from afar.”

Rachel tsked. “Mister Dreamy Eyes isn’t the reason I come here.”

“Ooh, he has a nickname now.” Amber knew her friend too well. Rachel was totally into the sexy blue-eyed officer, but she was too shy to do anything about it, so she would sit and stare and wish she had the courage to approach him.

“Okay, well, he’s not the only reason.”

Amber rolled her eyes. “Ask him out already.” When only silence greeted her, she added, “What’s the worst he can do? Turn you down?”

“Yes,” Rachel hissed. “And that would be mortifying.”

“Maybe he’s into you. Ever consider that?”

She scoffed. “Why would he be?”

“Because you’re a catch,” Rachel answered, wishing the woman would realize her own worth.
“Think about it. He goes there every day, same as you. Maybe it’s not just for the coffee.”

“I don’t know,” Rachel said, clearly hesitant. “He’s sort of a flirt. And I’m through with the flirtatious charmers of the world. I need a nice, stable guy. Someone who doesn’t lose his cool just because I forget to call—one time.”

“Okay, Jake was way too possessive. You can’t shut yourself away just because you had one bad apple.”

“That’s the thing, it’s been a string of bad apples. I have terrible taste in men. So, basically, if I like this guy, the cop, then that means he’s a loser,” she said, as if coming to some great realization. “What I really need to do is date the first guy I’m not into. That’ll be my Mister Right.”

Amber laughed. “That’s the most absurd bit of logic I’ve ever heard.”

“Whatever. Enough about me. What are you doing at work? Don’t you ever sleep?”

“Sure, you’re one to talk. And how do you know I’m at work? Maybe I’m at home, in bed.”

“First of all, of course you’re at work. You’re always at work. And the only reason I’m awake right now is so I can ogle, remember?”

Amber sighed. “Yeah. It’s been a long time since I stopped and ogled.”

“Maybe it’s time for a vacation,” she suggested. “You do tend to burn the candle at both ends.”
She flipped through at her planner sitting open on her desk in front of her. Meetings, meetings, meetings. God, when had her life gotten so predictable? “You’re right. It’s time I soaked up some sun and put some color back into my cheeks.”

“Great idea. I hear Miami is gorgeous this time of year.”

“Miami,” Amber repeated, remembering the last time she’d been to sunny Florida. Her senior year of college, she’d spent a week partying with some friends. Geez, Amber had done things then she wouldn’t even tell Rachel about. “I love it. I’m going to book a flight today. I’ve got a ton of vacation time coming.”

“And you deserve to use some of it.”

After they talked a bit more, Amber hung up and got back to work. At around noon, she took a break and called her mom. When a cheerful voice answered the phone, Amber said, “Hi, Mom.”

“Hi, sweetheart. How are you?”

“Good, I’ve got a full day ahead, but I was thinking of stopping by on my way home. Feel like some company?”

“Always,” she answered. “I’ll be sure to have the coffee ready.”


It was after six in the evening before Amber reached her mother’s small white ranch-style house. “Mom?” she called out as she stepped through the front door.

“In the kitchen,” her mother yelled back.

When Amber entered the brightly lit room, her mom pointed to the chair at the kitchen counter and handed her a cup of freshly brewed coffee. “Thanks,” she said as she breathed in the rich aroma. “Smells like heaven.”

Her mom stood across from her and frowned. “Did you eat today? You have dark circles under your eyes.”

She chuckled. “Gee, thanks.”

“I worry about you.” She reached over and patted her hand. “You work too hard.”

Amber admired her mom. At fifty-five, Betty Price stayed in relatively good shape with weekly yoga classes, and she kept the gray in her hair at bay with store-bought brown hair dye. And even though she had some laugh lines, the woman could still turn a few heads.

“Actually, I was considering taking a vacation.”

Her eyes widened. “Wow, when was the last time you did that?”

“It’s been at least a year.” She propped her head on her fist. “I’m thinking Miami.”

“Oh, that sounds lovely,” her mom said, a smile curving her lips. “Going alone or with someone special?”

She rolled her eyes at the not so subtle probe into her love life. “Nice try, but there isn’t currently a someone special.” Unfortunately, she added silently.

“What about that new neighbor of yours?” Mom perked up at that. “The one who moved in a few weeks ago? Didn’t you mention that he’s tall, dark, and handsome?”

Amber laughed. “Yes, I did. But I haven’t even said hi to him, and you want me to invite him on vacation with me?”

“Well, no, but you could introduce yourself and then maybe take a vacation at home.” She paused. “Don’t they call that a stay-cation?”

“Yes, they do,” she replied, and much to her surprise, the thought had merit. “I suppose it would be a nice gesture to welcome him to the neighborhood with one of my famous strawberry pies.” She had been super curious about the guy. He seemed so mysterious.

“Hmm, good idea,” Mom said with the hint of a smile. “So, tell me more about this guy.”

“He has black hair that hangs down to his shoulders. He’s tall, over six feet if I had to guess. And sort of…rugged.” Too late, Amber realized she’d made it acutely obvious that she’d totally checked him out from afar.

“Rugged, huh?” She winked. “Rugged sounds nice.”

“Okay, so maybe I’ll take a stay-cation.” Amber felt like a teenager in high school, blushing at the mere mention of a cute guy.

“You know, Alison from church noticed your new neighbor too. She said he’s downright yummy.”
Amber frowned. “Seriously?” She rolled her eyes. “She’s too young to be checking out men like him. I mean, she’s barely twenty years old.” And why did it bug her that other women had noticed her neighbor? It wasn’t like she had any claims on the guy.

Mom laughed. “Better get your butt in gear or you’ll have to take a number to get a date with him.”

The thought didn’t sit well at all. “I know, Mom,” she said. “And what would I do without you arranging my love life for me?” She got up and gave her mom a hug. “Die an old maid, I suppose.”
Her mother started to speak, but Amber’s cell phone rang. She checked the number on the screen but didn’t recognize it. She said, “Hello?”

There was a beat of silence and then, “Hi, baby.” The deep voice on the other end sent a chill down her spine.

Amber paled at the sound of her ex-husband. “Ted,” she bit out. The world tilted on its axis, and for a split second, she was thrown back in time to when that deep baritone first melted her heart, and then would later freeze her in fear. Never in a million years had she expected to hear from Ted again. At the conclusion of their disastrous marriage, they’d said good-bye and never once talked again. Until now.

There were some details of her marriage Amber hadn’t revealed to anyone. Ted had a mean streak a mile wide when he picked up “the drink.” She’d witnessed it on a few occasions when she’d inadvertently made Ted mad. He quite simply frightened the hell out of her, and she wanted him to keep out of her life.

On one such occasion, Amber had come home from work late to find Ted drunk and sitting quietly in the dark. He’d asked where she’d been. She told him she’d been working, but he was disinclined to believe her. He got angry, and to teach her a lesson for lying to him, he landed a blow to her cheek. It had put her out cold on the floor. When she came to, Ted pleaded with her to please not leave him. He was so sorry, and it would never happen again. She naively believed he was sincere. Of course, it happened again. The second time it wasn’t just a blow to the face but also a kick to her stomach. She’d doubled over in agony, pleading with him to please stop. That was right before she’d caught him in their marriage bed with another woman. Amber decided enough was enough and filed for divorce.

“What do you want, Ted?” Amber tried to force a measure of calm in her tone, but found she was sorely lacking.

“Now is that any way to talk to your ex-husband, baby?” Ted said laughingly.

“Do not ever call me baby again,” she yelled. “You lost that right.” Now her temperature began to climb along with her temper. How dare he simply phone her after all this time and attempt to sweet-talk her. He was in for a rude awakening if he thought that tactic was going to work. She was no longer an innocent young girl.

“Come on, Amber. It’s been ages, and I’ve changed a lot,” Ted said earnestly. “I know I made lots of mistakes by you, but just hear what I have to say, and then I’ll leave you alone, Okay?” he implored.
Amber sighed and decided to let him say his piece and then hang up on the jerk. She turned and saw her mom watching, worry creasing her brow. In her anxiety over hearing Ted again, Amber had forgotten she wasn’t alone. She walked over to her mother and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Very well, Ted, get on with it, then,” Amber said, getting more perturbed every second she spent on the phone.

“I just wanted you to know I’m back in town, and I thought it’d be real nice if we got together and talked about old times. What do you say, Amber? We could go to the Tasty Freeze and have burgers and fries like we use to when we were married.”

She rolled her eyes at his sheer stupidity. “Ted, I’m going to say this once, and then I’m hanging up. I will not go anywhere with you ever again. Our marriage is over, and I’ve moved on with my life. I suggest you do the same. Do not attempt to call me again.” She spoke with calm authority and hit the end-call button. After taking a deep breath, she once again turned toward her mom.

“What did he want?” her mother asked fretfully.

“He says he’s back in town and wants to get together for old time’s sake. Can you believe the nerve of him to call and expect to just pick right up where we left off?” She clenched her fists, just thinking of the whole thing. “Of course I told him not a chance, and don’t call me again.” She sat across from her mother and took a long drink from her iced tea in an effort to cool her temper.

Mom began chewing her lower lip. “Is there anything you want to tell me, Amber? About Ted and your marriage, I mean?”

Did she suspect there was more to the story? Amber squashed her growing panic. “You already know everything of importance, and besides, I don’t want to rehash all that depressing stuff. I’d rather just forget about it and move forward.” She went on with forced cheer. “I won’t allow him to ruin our visit together. He isn’t worth my time.”

“Okay, dear, if that’s want you want. Just know that I’m here if you ever feel like talking, okay?” Mom said with love in her eyes.

“Thank you, that means so much to me.” She covered her mother’s hand with her own and squeezed. Amber only hoped she’d be able to keep the past buried where it belonged, but knowing Ted was back in town made all the old fears resurface and gave her a sense of foreboding. Ted wasn’t used to being told no. There was no telling what he might do. However, she was determined to live her life and deal with her own problems. She refused to cower and run to her mom or her brother every time something bad happened.

After they shared a dinner of pork chops and steamed asparagus, her mom saw her out the door with a hug. Before she left, Amber promised to call when she got home.

With them both alone in the evenings, they often had dinner together. Mom could never get used to cooking for just herself. She’d always cooked for herself and Dad before he passed away. Amber suspected her mom was lonely, but Betty refused to even consider dating. In her heart, she was still married.

Amber had done a good job of reassuring her mother that all was well and she shouldn’t worry about Ted, but deep down, Amber wished she could convince herself of the same thing. She shivered, but quickly shook it off. She was taking a vacation, and she wouldn’t let anything spoil it.
When Amber reached her own house, she closed and locked the front door, and finally kicked off her shoes. She sighed, emotionally exhausted. She was just glad the day was at last at an end. In two weeks, she would start her vacation. Or, stay-cation, as it turned out. And maybe, just maybe, she’d work up the nerve to introduce herself to her sexy new neighbor. She smiled. If there was a God, maybe she’d even go out on a date.

Kobo! https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/loving-amber


A Touch of Amber-- February 2016!
http://annerainey.com

Loving Amber is available on the Nook!!

Hi Readers,

I thought I'd let you all know that Loving Amber is now on the Nook for only .99!

Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/loving-amber-anne-rainey/1123474915?ean=2940158026904


She’s about to get up close and personal…

Amber is seriously overworked and in bad need of a vacation. At first she’s thinking a week in sultry Miami might do the trick. But when the sexy and mysterious Sean Gunner moves in next door, Amber decides a stay-cation is just the sort of break she needs. His dark hair and bedroom eyes give her lots of sinful ideas. And not even Amber’s nuisance of an ex-husband is going to derail her from getting up close and personal with the hottie next door.

Sean moved to the small burb for some much needed peace and quiet to work on his latest novel. But there’s just something about Amber. When she bakes him a strawberry pie to welcome him to the neighborhood, Sean sees it as a chance to get to know the sexy woman a little better. Later, Sean is forced to come to Amber’s rescue and save her from her ex, Sean finds he’s loath to ignore the sensual woman. In fact, before Amber’s vacation is over Sean intends to leave the woman breathless and begging for more.


Barnes and Noble Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/loving-amber-anne-rainey/1123474915?ean=2940158026904   Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Loving-Amber-Morgan-County-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B01A7KGS0S/ Read Chapter One: http://annerainey.com/bookshelf/loving-amber/  A Touch of Amber-- February 2016! http://annerainey.com