The Amaranthine Law, page 1
The Amaranthine Law
Synopsis
In 1761, Tristan Kelly is one of nine children to survive a mysterious fever aboard a ship bound for the Americas. Ever since, she has aged very slowly. She might be over two hundred and fifty years old, but she looks forty.
When Tristan hires Olivia Bryce as a new intern at her art restoration company, an unexpected attraction ignites which Tristan can’t permit. The truth must never be revealed. Despite Tristan’s resolve, their feelings grow when Tristan brings Olivia to Paris to work on a priceless painting at the Louvre. There, an old friend brings disturbing news: someone is hunting her, and all those who survived the fever, killing them one by one.
As Olivia begins to unravel the truth and the assailants get closer, Tristan and Olivia grow closer, too. Tristan knows there’s no future for them and is ready to sacrifice herself to keep Olivia out of the crossfire. But Olivia refuses to listen to Tristan’s arguments, insisting their love is fated and they must face the endgame together, no matter the consequences.
Praise for Gun Brooke
Ice Queen
“I’m a sucker for a story about a single mother, and in this case, it really adds depth to Susanna’s character. The conflict that threatens Susanna and Aislin’s future isn’t a convoluted series of events. It’s the insecurities they each bring into the relationship that they’re forced to acknowledge and deal with. To me this felt authentic. The book is a quick read with plenty of spice.”—Lesbian Review
Treason
“The adventure was edge-of-your-seat levels of gripping and exciting…I really enjoyed this final addition to the Exodus series and particularly liked the ending. As always it was a very well written book.”—Melina Bickard, Librarian, Waterloo Library (UK)
Insult to Injury
“This novel tugged at my heart all the way, much the same way as Coffee Sonata. It’s a story of new beginnings, of rediscovering oneself, of trusting again (both others and oneself).”—Jude in the Stars
“If you love a good, slow-burn romantic novel, then grab this book.”—Rainbow Reflections
“[A] light romance that left me with just the right amount of “aw shucks” at the end.”—C-Spot Reviews
Wayworn Lovers
“Wayworn Lovers is a super dramatic, angsty read, very much in line with Brooke’s other contemporary romances…I’m definitely in the ‘love them’ camp.”—The Lesbian Review
Thorns of the Past
“What I really liked from the offset is that Brooke steered clear of the typical butch PI with femme damsel in distress trope. Both main characters are what I would call ordinary women—they both wear suits for work, they both dress down in sweatpants and sweatshirts in the evening. As a result, I instantly found it a lot easier to relate, and connect with both. Each of their pasts hold dreadful memories and pain, and the passages where they opened up to each other about those events were very moving.”—Rainbow Reviews
“I loved the romance between Darcy and Sabrina and the story really carried it well, with each of them learning that they have a safe haven with the other.”—The Lesbian Review
Soul Unique
“This is the first book that Gun Brooke has written in a first person perspective, and that was 100% the correct choice. She avoids the pitfalls of trying to tell a story about living with an autism spectrum disorder that she’s never experienced, instead making it the story of someone who falls in love with a person living with Asperger’s…Soul Unique is her best. It was an ambitious project that turned out beautifully. I highly recommend it.”—The Lesbian Review
“Yet another success from Gun Brooke. The premise is interesting, the leads are likeable and the supporting characters are well-developed. The first person narrative works well, and I really enjoyed reading about a character with Asperger’s.”—Melina Bickard, Librarian, Waterloo Library (London)
The Blush Factor
“Gun Brooke captures very well the two different ‘worlds’ the two main characters live in and folds this setting neatly into the story. So, if you are looking for a well-edited, multi-layered romance with engaging characters this is a great read and maybe a re-read for those days when comfort food is a must.”—Lesbians on the Loose
September Canvas
“In this character-driven story, trust is earned and secrets are uncovered. Deanna and Faythe are fully fleshed out and prove to the reader each has much depth, talent, wit and problem-solving abilities. September Canvas is a good read with a thoroughly satisfying conclusion.”—Just About Write
Fierce Overture
“Gun Brooke creates memorable characters, and Noelle and Helena are no exception. Each woman is ‘more than meets the eye’ as each exhibits depth, fears, and longings. And the sexual tension between them is real, hot, and raw.”—Just About Write
Lambda Literary Award Finalist Sheridan’s Fate
“Sheridan’s fire and Lark’s warm embers are enough to make this book sizzle. Brooke, however, has gone beyond the wonderful emotional explorations of these characters to tell the story of those who, for various reasons, become differently-abled. Whether it is a bullet, an illness, or a problem at birth, many women and men find themselves in Sheridan’s situation. Her courage and Lark’s gentleness and determination send this romance into a ‘must read.’”—Just About Write
Escape: Exodus Book Three
“I’ve been a keen follower of the Exodus series for a while now and I was looking forward to the latest installment. It didn’t disappoint. The action was edge-of-your-seat thrilling, especially towards the end, with several threats facing the Exodus mission. Some very intriguing subplots were introduced, and I look forward to reading more about these in the next book.”—Melina Bickard, Librarian, Waterloo Library, London (UK)
Pathfinder: Exodus Book Two
“I love Gun Brooke. She has successfully merged two of my reading loves: lesfic and sci-fi.”—Inked Rainbow Reads
Advance: Exodus Book One
“Advance is an exciting space adventure, hopeful even through times of darkness. The romance and action are balanced perfectly, interesting the audience as much in the fleet’s mission as in Dael and Spinner’s romance. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!”—All Our Worlds: Diverse Fantastic Fiction
The Supreme Constellations Series
“Protector of the Realm has it all; sabotage, corruption, erotic love and exhilarating space fights. Gun Brooke’s second novel is forceful with a winning combination of solid characters and a brilliant plot. The book exemplifies her growth as inventive storyteller and is sure to garner multiple awards in the coming year.”—Just About Write
Protector of the Realm “is first and foremost a romance, and whilst it has action and adventure, it is the romance that drives it. The book moves along at a cracking pace, and there is much happening throughout to make it a good page-turner. The action sequences are very well done, and make for an adrenaline rush.”—The Lesbian Review
“Brooke is an amazing author. Never have I read a book where I started at the top of the page and don’t know what will happen two paragraphs later. She keeps the excitement going, and the pages turning.”—Family and Friends Magazine
The Amaranthine Law
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By the Author
Romances
Course of Action
Coffee Sonata
Sheridan’s Fate
September Canvas
Fierce Overture
Speed Demons
The Blush Factor
Soul Unique
A Reluctant Enterprise
Piece of Cake
Thorns of the Past
Wayworn Lovers
Insult to Injury
Science Fiction
Supreme Constellations series
Protector of the Realm
Rebel’s Quest
Warrior’s Valor
Pirate’s Fortune
Exodus series
Advance
Pathfinder
Escape
Arrival
Treason
The Dennamore Scrolls
Yearning
Velocity
Homeworld
Lunar Eclipse
Renegade’s War
The Amaranthine Law
Novella Anthology
Change Horizons
The Amaranthine Law
© 2022 By Gun Brooke. All Rights Reserved.
ISBN 13: 978-1-63679-236-1
This Electronic Original Is Published By
Bold Strokes Books, Inc.
P.O. Box 249
Valley Falls, NY 12185
First Edition: November 2022
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.
This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.
Credits
Editor: Shelley Thrasher
Production Design: Stacia Seaman
Cover Photos by www.pexels.com
Cover Design by Gun Brooke
eBook Design by Toni Whitaker
Acknowledgments
Me, writing a paranormal love story? If anyone would have suggested such a thing a few years ago, I would have balked at the idea. I love such stories as a reader—and same goes for crime novels—but writing them…whoa! But in January 2021, I got this idea for a story (and it was meant to remain a fanfic story at first) after watching art restoration videos on YouTube. When my mind goes “What if…?” I know it’ll bug me until I write. So, firstly, I want to acknowledge the YT channel Baumgartner Restoration for the information and inspiration.
Thank you to my editor, Dr. Shelley Thrasher, for helping me sort this manuscript out. You are such a pearl and I adore you.
Thank you also to Len Barot, Sandy Lowe, Ruth Sternglantz, Toni Whitaker, Cindy Cresap, and Stacia Seaman, plus everyone else at BSB who create such a lovely, inspiring home for us authors. You are all amazing.
Regarding this book, I want to give extra thanks to my first reader, Annika in Germany. You were such a tremendous help and the perfect mix of blunt and encouraging. You rock!
My readers, whether you buy my books or read my fanfic, or both, I owe you so much. Kind words, pointers, suggestions, and general appreciation goes such a long way. I feel truly blessed.
Malin, Henrik, Pentti, Ove, Monica, the grandkids—I could never do without you. Birgitta, Rose-Marie, Soli, Kamilla, Georgi, Joanne, Sam, girls from the acrylic paint group, you all know how much you mean to me. I know this’ll sound sappy, but without my dogs, everything would be harder, so, my darling pooches, keep up the good work.
Writing used to be known as quite a solitary endeavor, but as you can tell from the list above, it isn’t always. I’m very grateful for every single person above.
For Elon
For the BLAs
Prologue
1769
Aboard a sailing ship on the Atlantic Ocean
“Here, Sarah. Drink this.”
Sarah looks up at her mother. The light behind her creates a halo. Maybe Mother is now an angel. Then Sarah feels Mother’s cool hand against the back of her neck as she helps Sarah drink from the cup. The liquid is hot and bitter, and Sarah tries to pull away, but Mother insists.
“Are you sure this will help her?” Father asks from somewhere in the shadows. “After all, we don’t know that woman.”
“You know as well as I do, if she doesn’t get any better, if she can’t keep water down, she won’t make it.” Mother’s voice is harsh, but Sarah can hear the anguish. When she holds the cup back to Sarah’s lips, she drinks more of the strong liquid, wanting to please Mother. Reassure her.
Father’s face appears next to Mother’s. He too looks pale. “Come on, little sparrow. You have to fight. Mother is going to give you some water soon to rinse down that brew.” His big, callused hand cups her cheek.
Sarah groans. The water aboard the ship is vile, barely better than what Mother is forcing on her.
“I have some I boiled earlier today over there.” Mother points to the corner where they keep a jug.
“You are clever to do so, dear.” Father runs a finger down Sarah’s nose, but she doesn’t have enough strength to offer him her usual smile at his caress. “Dear God, she’s so thin.”
“So were the two Halliwell girls across from us, but look at them now. No matter what that woman put into this tea, those girls are alive because of it. The parents of Sarah’s little friends, Rosalee and Iris, are giving it to their little girls as well. Even those two wretchedly wicked little sisters in the aft are doing better. Whatever this plague is, it has hit all the youngest girls the hardest.”
Father sighs. “I know you’re right, dear. It’s just that I observed the woman as she made her brew. I’m not comfortable with the way she chanted. There’s something strange about her.”
Sarah flinches when Mother snaps her head around to glare at Father. “I honestly don’t care if she was summoning the devil himself,” she whispers intensely. “Our little girl won’t see the next sunrise if we don’t do this. I would never be able to live with myself if I didn’t try everything available.”
Father puts his arm around Mother’s shoulders. Normally Mother would shake his arm off with a huff, because that’s her way. Mother is not sweet and cuddly like Iris’s mother. But this time, Mother must be truly upset that Sarah is ill. She puts her head on Father’s shoulder and hides her face against his neck, sobbing quietly.
Sarah closes her eyes, imagining she can feel the hot, bitter tea slosh around in her belly much like the waves carry their ship toward the Americas. That is, of course, unless Mother’s fears come true, and Sarah goes to heaven before the sunrise.
Chapter One
Present Day
The young woman before her should normally be unremarkable by Tristan’s standards. Average height, long dark-brown hair, beautiful amber eyes, and full lips that easily stretch into a captivating smile all add up to a pretty creature. Still, the sum of her parts is nothing Tristan hasn’t seen a million times before. Yet—the fidgety young woman holds…something. Despite her ordinariness—emphasized by jeans, a gray T-shirt, and a black leather jacket, this girl possesses a quality that creates, if not cracks, then indentations in the armor Tristan, out of necessity, constructed around herself a long time ago. How peculiar. And how inconvenient.
“Olivia Bryce. What makes you think you’re a good fit for my company and able to do this job at the required level?” Tristan asks, easing up on the corner of her large oak desk. She lets her boot-clad foot dangle slightly, noticing how Olivia gazes at the motion for a few moments before returning her focus to Tristan.
“I’ve attended art school and have a degree in chemistry. I would consider an internship with your fine-art-conservation company a fantastic opportunity.” Olivia shifts from one foot to the other. Does she realize that she tends to pull at her fingers when nervous, Tristan wonders.
“Of course you would. But how would employing you benefit Amaranthine Inc.?” Pursing her lips, Tristan takes pity on Olivia and motions at the antique leather visitors’ chair. After returning to her own office chair, an impressive piece that is even older and made from skillfully carved oak, Tristan sits down. She folds her hands on the desk, studying Olivia.
“I’ve dreamed of working for you ever since I discovered art restoration when I was fifteen. My first passion was drawing, then painting, and I lived for going to art museums whenever possible. The old masters mesmerize me, and I will find a way to work on preserving their art, no matter what, but doing it here would be perfect.” Olivia stops talking and blushes. “Sorry. When it comes to this subject, I get very excited very fast.”
“Well, being interested in the job is considered the baseline when seeking employment, don’t you think? What sets you above the other applicants—some, if not all, with more experience than you?” Tristan tilts her head and deliberately raises her perfectly groomed eyebrows, knowing full well what impact she can have on people.
“Interested? That doesn’t even come close to how I feel. I burn for this. I live and breathe art and conservation. The others may have more experience, but as they’ve worked and trained in other places, they might also have picked up habits you would find undesirable. Are you their first choice, their dream, like you are for me?” Olivia sits at the edge of the chair, gesturing emphatically.
Tristan can’t help but be impressed. The girl is nervous, yes, but she’s fearless, and she’s not above fighting a bit dirty. Suggesting her competition might have learned methods that Tristan would have to make them unlearn is a valid point, but rather audacious to bring up when you’re just—Tristan glances at Olivia’s application form—twenty-four.
Recalling the other eight individuals she has interviewed over the last two weeks, a task so tedious and unimpressive that Tristan is ready to push needles into her eyes, she can’t remember any of them catching her attention like Olivia has.
