Rainy Days

by Anna J

134 pages, Paperback

Published July 28, 2026

Reviews

[The Urban Book Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW:

One thing about Anna J.—she has officially proven that she can write any genre.

I’m so used to her putting me on the edge of my seat with suspense that I kept waiting for something terrible to happen. Instead, she gave us a beautifully written contemporary romance that reminded me why I love stories centered on healing just as much as stories centered on survival.

City Love Stories: Rainy Days is a clean, heartfelt romance that takes its time allowing the characters to grow. Rather than rushing into love, Anna J. lets us watch two people work through life’s disappointments, learn from their pasts, and become better versions of themselves before asking us to believe in their future together. That made every interaction feel genuine.

The chemistry between Brooke Lynn and Reggie felt effortless. Their conversations had depth, their connection felt earned, and I appreciated that faith, friendship, and personal growth were woven naturally into the story instead of feeling forced.

Now… don’t think Anna J. forgot who she is. Just when I settled into this sweet romance, she reminded me she still knows exactly how to throw a curveball. There was one moment that had me talking to the pages because I absolutely did not see it coming.

What I appreciated most was the pacing. The story never felt rushed, and every chapter gave me another reason to keep reading. It wasn’t built on unnecessary drama—it was built on emotional maturity, second chances, forgiveness, and learning that love often arrives after you’ve done the work on yourself.

If you’ve only read Anna J.‘s suspense novels, don’t hesitate to pick this one up. She has proven that her storytelling isn’t limited to one lane. Whether she’s writing suspense or romance, she knows exactly how to keep readers invested.

[Detra.honeyblonde · Rating 4 out of 5]

City Love Stories: Rainy Days was a cute, quick novella that was easy to get through. Anna J. did a great job telling a well-written story, and I really enjoyed the references to her previous books.

One of my favorite parts was the spiritual connection between the MMC and MFC. It added depth to their relationship and made their journey feel more meaningful. I also loved the friendship between the best friend and the MFC. Their interactions brought warmth and balance to the story.

My biggest issue was the MFC. Her behavior came across as immature for much of the book, and I found her to be draining and unnecessarily problematic at times. She definitely tested my patience. That said, you may feel differently, so I'd say read it and judge her for yourself.
Overall, this was an enjoyable novella with heart, sweet romance, and a little spice which earned 4 stars.

[Des · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some books that remind you love isn't always about perfect timing... it's about the right person showing up when you least expect it

I'm not even gonna lie... the beginning had me HEATED. I was ready to write certain people off, but by the time I reached the end, I found myself apologizing because I definitely spoke too soon.

This story had me all over the place emotionally. One minute I was fighting the air, the next I was kicking my feet with the biggest smile on my face. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going... it reminded me that life has a way of throwing in unexpected detours.

One thing this book made clear is that not everyone wants to see you happy, and sometimes the biggest obstacles show up when you're the closest to your peace.

I loved how the story unfolded without feeling rushed. Every chapter pulled me in a little more, and I kept telling myself "just one more chapter"... knowing good and well that wasn't happening.

This was a sweet, heartfelt reminder that some things are worth waiting for... but you'll have to read it yourself to see if everything happens the way you think it will.

Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. My phone, my chores, everybody else... they all had to wait because I needed to know how this story was going to end.

Des Reads All Day Verdict: If you enjoy romances that take you from frustration to butterflies while keeping you guessing, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.

[Te_the_Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella was a good, quick ride. I appreciate being able to read in advance.
Brooke Lynne and Reggie are both recovering from failed relationships but still looking for love, for “a couple of forevers”. Both of their pasts can deter what they are looking for, can they get beyond the obstacles? There are moments of laughter, sadness, anger, and even grief, that readers may relate to. I wasn’t prepared for some of what happened, because I was caught up in thinking I was just getting a smooth romance. I should have known when Anna said she wanted to drop some bodies!
There was a lot of resonance for me with the main characters. Their struggles, the relationships they have with friends and family, the choices they each make for their peace, I know very well. I even saw my best friend in this story.
While she states that this is not what she would usually write, one of the things I truly loved is the way Anna J. weaved intentionality into Rainy Days. Knowing what you want, not allowing anyone to dictate what you should do, having those around you that are truly down for you.
There is also the idea that sometimes the fight is hardest when you’re doing everything right. How do we get through to the other side? Love, intention, forgiveness, faith. Faith the size of a mustard seed. Oh, and shout out to Gabby. She’s really a girl’s girl! I hope you can enjoy this story as much as I have.

[Jessica Womble · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anna J, you got me again! 🥹

I honestly don’t know if I loved Brooke Lynn or Reggie more because I saw pieces of myself in both of them. While I’m used to Anna J hitting us with trauma right out of the gate (IYKYK 😭), this story felt different. Instead of focusing on the trauma itself, it was about surviving it, working through heartbreak, healing, and finding the courage to love again despite the scars left behind.

One of my favorite parts was watching both Brooke Lynn and Reggie choose healing before choosing each other. They didn’t rush into another relationship to fill a void. Instead, they did the work individually, leaned on God for guidance, and grew into the people they needed to become. I absolutely loved that message.

This is a beautiful second-chance romance with a hero who falls first and falls HARD. ❤️ And don’t even get me started on the meddling exes, they had me ready to reach through the pages and send them right back where they came from.

I also adored the friendship between Brooke Lynn and Gabby. Everyone needs a hype-girl bestie who keeps it real, lets you vent, and reminds you who you are when life gets messy.

If you love second-chance romance, emotional healing journeys, faith woven naturally into the story, a hero who falls first, and friendships that are just as memorable as the romance, definitely add this one to your TBR

[CHANREADSIT · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Rainy Days expecting a sweet romance, but this story gave me so much more. Brooke and Reggie are both trying to move on from failed relationships while still believing their forever person is out there. Their journey wasn’t always easy, and I definitely wasn’t expecting some of the emotional twists this story threw at me.

What I loved most was how real the characters felt. Their struggles, the relationships they had with family and friends, and the choices they made to protect their peace all felt relatable. I also loved the message woven throughout the story about healing, forgiveness, faith, and staying true to yourself, even when life gets hard.

This novella had me laughing, emotional, and rooting for Brooke and Reggie until the very end. If you’re looking for a romance with heart, relatable characters, and a meaningful message, I definitely recommend giving this one a read.

✨ What stood out to me:
• ❤️ Healing after heartbreak
• 🌧️ Real, relatable characters
• 👯‍♀️ Strong friendships
• ✨ Themes of faith, forgiveness, and choosing your peace
• 📖 A romance with depth, not just the love story

Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. 💙

Sorry it took so long I was on vacation and even a novella takes a while with kids 😂😂

[Desiree Buggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading how even though there past try to tear them down they didn’t allow it. I love how they kept God at the center of there relationship even in their struggles. Reggie knew that Brooke Lynn was his wife and as he was trying to be patient gentle and chilled he was applying just the right amount of pressure. I also like that the book didn’t focus on the needs of only the FMC but also on the needs of the MMC as well in relationships. Like they both knew who they are and what they needed to be who god created them to be and didn’t play about themself. At first of was annoyed because Brook Lynn was dependent on her best friend for how she navigated relationships because of her past but I’m glad she step out on faith and sent that “hey big head” text lol. This was my first time reading from this author but definitely won’t be the last.

[Anjosia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a romantic short story that follows Brooke Lynn and Reggie, two people who have each escaped their own versions of toxic love. Now, both are trusting God to lead them to true love—the kind of love that is meant specifically for them.

The thriller writer in Anna J. definitely made her presence known in this story! Told through dual points of view, Rainy Days had me experiencing all the emotions, with unexpected shocks and twists that kept me invested in Brooke Lynn and Reggie’s journeys. I found myself rooting for these two as they worked through their pasts and tried to determine if love was truly in the cards for them.

You’ll have to read Rainy Days to find out whether Brooke Lynn and Reggie finally find the love they’ve been praying for—or if they are destined to continue having rainy days.

[CT · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this ARC of Rainy Day by Anna J. It was such a heartfelt and enjoyable read, and I loved Brooke Lynn and Reggie's story. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and I was completely invested in their journey.
This book delivered some favorite tropes, including second chance at love, two people finding their way after heartbreak, and a romance built on undeniable chemistry. I loved the emotional depth, the connection between the characters, and the way the story captured the risks and rewards of opening your heart again.

A sweet, engaging read for anyone who enjoys a romance filled with emotion, hope, and the possibility of finding love when you least expect it.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book!

[Chatamiya H · Rating 4 out of 5]

City of Love Stories: Rainy Days by @authorannaj
This was such the cutest love story that reminding me so much of old school courting your mate. The characters Brook’Lynn and Reggie went threw so much in there previous relationships that they never thought they would find love again. But accidentally bumping into each other, they knew it was God answering prayers. They took their dating each other without rushing, even though they spicy thoughts came to their minds. But they were patient with each other and with the power of prayer two hearts became one. This read teaches you that if you follow God lead and pray, keep pushing forward no matter what brought you down/broke you, that your prayers will soon be answered. I really enjoyed this book.

[CourtneyRenee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anna J knows how to write a story that will stay with you, you hear me!

This novella was the type of love story I gravitate to. Faith based but also realistic. Imperfect people trying their hand at love again and going slow to build a strong foundation.

Reggie and Brooke Lynn are somewhat newly single and not really looking for love but still open to it when it happens. Reggie is the dating with intention type and this allows Brooke Lynn to embrace her soft girl side and I loved that for her.

The pacing was perfect and their story evolved organically, a few bumps in the road but this is a HEA that gave me all the feels.

Thank you to @authorannaj as always for this ARC.
4.5 stars

[Latoya Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was not your typical Anna J and that’s what makes it a 5 star. Anna really can write in any genre and give you something you aint even knew you needed.

Rainy Day’s was pulling at emotions. I am usually not a slow burn kind of girl but this story was told so beautifully. We didn’t get what most expect in a romance with the MMC. Reggie was a GOOD MAN SAVANNAH!!!! I love that Anna showed both sides of what each character went through. I’m not use to getting raw emotions from a MMC for me that is what made this book stand out the most for me.

If you want REAL and RELATABLE romance this is the book. Not messy. That REAL LOVE that Mary J was searching for in her song.

[Faye Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Reggie and Brooke Lyn's story! 🥹💕 Two people who had both been hurt in their past relationships and didn't think they would find someone else who was truly worth the wait.

This was such a perfect summer read, and I truly enjoyed this story because, WHAT?! 😩 I need more love stories like this! I loved watching Reggie and Brooke Lyn's story unfold and seeing two people who had experienced hurt get another chance at finding love.

This is definitely a story I can see myself reading again. Anna J, I need more love stories like this because I was here for it! ☔️💕📚

[Brandy Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Anna J for the ARC opportunity.

At first, I doubted Reggie, but he proved me wrong. This story follows two people who have been through failed relationships and are ready for their forever love to find them. I loved the support Brooke Lynn received from Gabby. Reggie just couldn’t seem to get away from his past, but it doesn’t take years to know when you’ve found the one—and he knew, refusing to let go. This story shows what relationships can look like when you’ve prayed and waited for the right one.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC Review**

I think Brook Lynne and Reggie may be my top 5 couples of 2026. Both come from a toxic divorce and literally ran into each other. I fell like they both were cautious while dating and tried to not take the toxicity from their previous marriage in theirs (well, Brook Lynn was a bit too stubborn for me at one point). As a Philadelphia native, I love books written in my city so the scenes written about Spruce Street Harbor Park and Reading Terminal were my absolute favorite. Looking forward to reading more from Ms. Anna J. 💙💙

[Shiyanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loving characters and feeling like you know them in under 200 pages takes talent!

Brooke Lynn and Reggie were made for each other. They didn’t let their past prevent them from finding love again. They put faith in god to know that he wouldn’t let them wrong. Which led to the love they were destined for.

Thank you writehandsolutions for this ARC!

[Belle Paynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so cute! If you're just starting your book journey and want something short, sweet, and to the point..... this is your book! I love the POV chapters and the tad bit of messy-ness with the exes🫣🫣🫣 I hope we get a second book (Yes I'm one of those that wants everything to be a damn series🤣)

[Ebony Essence · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Anna J and her team for my ARC.

Anna “Don’t Play With Her” J!!! I met Anna through her writing of thriller/suspense and when I heard a romance by her was coming out my attention was locked. This story did not miss and just proved that she can do whatever she wants.

Brooke Lynn and Reggie have a very beautiful story. Especially after they both dealt with heartbreak and promising themselves how their next love would be different. While i love both Reggie is the stand out to me. His relationship with God, intentions, and growth gave a beautifully calming spirit about him. He is also an example of if you want to grow and change some people can’t go with. Some people want you to stay stuck with them until they make it out. Instead of cheering you on and learning from you. This story also shows how it is okay to be alone to work on yourself, figure out what you want and move accordingly.

I recommend.

[shamia · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a bad break up this is what healing looks like. After reading this book I want to read this once a year. It may have been a short read but it definitely packed a punch. This is definitely a book I would recommend. I loved this.

[Tiffani · Rating 4 out of 5]

ove [verb]: An action word

Brooke Lynn had been through a lot. Her ex, Darren, broke her but she was ready to move forward with her life. One day after leaving church she heads to the grocery store. While walking in she runs into Reggi…Literally! Being bold Reggi didn’t want to pass this opportunity up so when loading the groceries in their car he approached Brooke Lynn and added his number to her phone…

Reggie was in town visiting his mother. He didn’t care to be in town but only to see her. His ex Demi damaged him. He told himself he would never do this…Love…again. But crossing paths with Brooke Lynn changed his mind

They hit it off. They enjoyed the time they had together while he was in PA. He headed back to NY and the distance isn’t an issue. They talk daily and are moving to something great…But tragedy hits Brooke Lynn but Reggie wasted no time being by her side

Now Brooke Lynn moves to NY! They are finally in the same city. But when Reggie’s ex pops up out of nowhere Brooke Lynn is down. She won’t be heart broken again…

Will Brooke Lynn hear him out so they can move forward or we she continue to keep his number blocked and move on.

[Read_With_KC · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect quick read for anyone who loves emotional contemporary romance, second chances, and stories that feel like a warm hug on a rainy day. Highly recommend!

[Nicolette Cornelius · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story about having faith and trusting again.

[Elena B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Anna J for the ARC opportunity.

City Love Stories: Rainy Days was a quick but good read. Seeing Brook Lynn and Reggie’s chemistry was cute and I love that they were both on the same type of time and was ready for each other. Even with outside forces (side eying Demi and Darren real heavy), they stayed on course.

Oh, and I loved Gabby… that’s a FRIEND!

The playlist that accompanies the story is absolutely perfect.

If you are looking for a cute, quick romance, then check out Rainy Days!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now this is what I call talent! Anna J. has proven that she can pretty much write in any genre. Here lately, I am used to thrillers, shocking moments, and a whole lot of unaliving in her works. But the second chance love story took the cake! I absolutely fell in love with both Brooke Lynn and Reggie. It’s not often that I equally love both of the main characters, there’s usually a favorite. But in this case, I truly loved them both (even when the FMC in this story frustrated me dearly). If you love second chance romance & love after heartbreak, pick this one up!