Xiomara's bad and she knows it. Not only just a cute face, but she's working on her degree as well. Left with scars from her past, she's only focused on her money and building her brand. After encountering Jrue in the club, she's offered a job that unknowingly changes things for her, causing her to look at her choices differently. Jrue the famous upcoming rapper. He’s a father battling to get his baby mama to act right and dealing with the stress and rumors that come with fame. He grew up in the streets, but a life changing experience made him take rapping and life more seriously. The moment he laid eyes on Xiomara, he knew he had to have her.
Neither were looking for anything past the bedroom, but as time goes on a bond forms, and the two find themselves unexpectedly wrapped up in each other. Dealing with a bitter baby mama, the blogs all in their business, and their lives always in the spotlight isn't easy, but the two are determined to make it work.
Tay Mo'Nae is a 27-year-old Urban Romance author who pens about Black Love. She create stories to help her readers escape reality and create a movie in their head. She loves writing about characters that at least one reader can relate too.
With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".
This book was just what I needed! Wrapped Up in His Rugged Ways was a fast paced story about a rapper, Jrue, and a social media influencer, Xiomara, and their journey to a happily ever after. I enjoyed every bit of it and when I finished I felt like I had been on a rollercoaster- but I didn’t want it to end!! The story, as a whole, was so good, like a movie playing out on page. Tay outdid herself with this book and it is a must read.
I loved the chemistry between Jrue and Xiomara; it was instantaneous, believable and oozed from the pages. Sometimes characters just fit together and that’s how it was with them. They matched each other’s energy and both understood the music and entertainment industry. What I liked the most about this book was Xio’s character; she was about her business, her money, and school- but when she clapped back it was always warranted. Jrue has a bad boy persona but he was a great father and a big teddy bear. When Xio said she wanted Jrue in her skin, I totally understood because he was truly everything. 🫠🙃
I thought the side characters brought a balance and depth to the story. I am here for any and all slander towards Sutton- like all of it, because she was horrible. The journey to HEA wasn’t perfect but there was never a doubt in my mind that Jrue and Xio wouldn’t make it. They were literally created for each other. Oh, so good!!
Jrue and Xiomara really grew on me. I always like reading about the men that really don't play about their women and Jrue was that from the very beginning. I loved seeing the evolution of their relationship and family dynamics. I wonder what's up with those twins though?
Here we have Xiomara a social media influencer/model who has a bad rep for being a hoe and gold digger and Jrue a rapper who also has a bad rep for being a hoe and a dead beat dad. The two have an undeniable connection and become friends/lovers. I enjoyed how they beat all the negative naysayers and just trusted each other. It was nice to see how their relationship flourished. Xiomara tried to be a people pleaser but Jrue shut that down and allowed her to be her truest self around him making them the perfect match for each other.
Jrue Baldwin is rapper working on his Debut Album. While out with his boys he spots a beauty that he would love to have in his video and approaches her. Xiomara Baldwin is a social media influencer, who is in college working towards getting her degree. While out at the club, she meets an up and coming rapper and the attraction between the two is evident. The physical attraction is clear so they decide to make a night of it. The only thing is one night isn’t truly that because they can’t help themselves whenever the other is around.
The was a great read. I absolutely loved Jrue. He never lost sight of the fact he was a father and made sure to carve out quality with his son. Their interaction in the story is so cute. It’s what I love to see. When it came to Xiomara, he knew what he wanted and went after it. The connection between was so pure. They couldn’t help but fall for each other. Although Jrue falls first, Xiomara was not far behind because of his caring ways.
Xiomara and Jrue’s siblings had me a little intrigued about their lives too. Secrets, dating drama and babies you know I was here for it all. I really disliked Sutton because she was so delulu. So worried about a man that her son wasn’t even important to her. The one character that got me wanting a little more is Xiomara’s bodyguard Ace. Too many of the ladies mentioned he was fine and protective so I’m intrigued (🗣️whispers bodyguard romance to Tay Mo’nae🫣)
4.5 ⭐️ Xiomara was building her brand as in influencer in the industry but she was also in school at the same time. She didn’t let past experiences deter her from having fun and getting to know Jrue better. Overall, Jrue was a good guy and tried to do the right thing. He showed grace towards Sutton when she didn’t deserve it. Absolutely loved Xiomara and Jrue together. I didn’t want the story to end.
I liked this one. While this book has drama, the MC’s were mature which made it bearable. There wasn’t any back and forth really between them but the drama with the outside people was crazy.
Jrue and Ximora were so perfect for each other. At the beginning of the book I didn’t know if I’d like jrue. He changed my view of him as the story went on but his baby mama …. Geesshhh she was a lot and I commend Ximora for how she handled her and the other drama that arose. Ximora gave powerful, confident, secure woman vibes and i loved every bit of it. She showed that you can be in the spotlight and still be private.
i loovveeddd this book so much! 😍😍😍 i think it’s fair to say i am obsessed with Jrue and Xiomara. they were so cute. the way they both didn’t play about each other was 🤌🏾.
A Compelling Tale of Love Amidst Fame and Struggles
Tay Mo’Nae crafts a riveting narrative that delves into the lives of Xiomara and Jrue, two individuals whose paths cross in unexpected ways, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges. The story unfolds against a backdrop of fame, street life, and the pursuit of personal growth. multifaceted character, is unapologetically focused on her money and brand building. Scarred by her past, she initially appears to prioritize her independence over emotional entanglements. However, an encounter with Jrue in the club and the subsequent job offer unravel a transformative journey for Xiomara, prompting her to reevaluate her choices.
Jrue, the upcoming rapper with a turbulent personal life, provides a raw and authentic portrayal of the struggles that accompany fame. His character, shaped by a life-changing experience, reflects the complexities of navigating parenthood, fame, and the yearning for genuine connections. The instant connection he feels with Xiomara sets the stage for a love story that defies expectations. As the narrative progresses, the author skillfully weaves a tale of unexpected love and genuine connection between Xiomara and Jrue. The challenges they face, from a bitter baby mama to intrusive media coverage, add layers of complexity to their evolving relationship. The determination displayed by the characters to make their love withstand the pressures of fame and external scrutiny is both inspiring and relatable. Wrapped up in his ruggish ways is more than a love story; it's a narrative that explores the resilience of love amidst adversity. The characters' journey, coupled with the spotlight of fame and personal struggles, creates a compelling and immersive reading experience. The book is a testament to the author's ability to intricately blend romance, authenticity, and the intricacies of navigating relationships in the public eye.
When I first began reading this book I wasn’t sure I’d finish it. All the ass shaking and twerking in the beginning and their behavior had me thinking I was about to read about a bunch of rachet females who only date dudes for money. Nothing wrong with that if that’s your thing but it’s not my cup of tea. Anyway I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Xiomara was the very opposite of what I thought. While she was about her money she was also smart and kind and didn’t do drama. Jrue was also a p,easing surprise he had a soft side that only arm could bring to the surface. Their chemistry could be felt throughout the story. There were some things going on with the sub characters i.e her sisters and some members of his crew that makes me think this isn’t the last we’ll see of these two and if that’s the case I’ll definitely be here for it. I don’t remember if I’ve read other books by this author but if they are as good as this one I’d definitely be up for checking out her catalog.
🎤 Rapper & SM Influencer 🎤 Step Mommy Season 🎤 2 for 1 Girl Gang & Guy Gang
I adored Jrue in daddy mode. Even with his status he made sure he took his son for haircuts, wasn’t working in his birthday. He protected his seed first and I respect it. I enjoyed his whole family especially his mama. She was not playing about her baby boy and every time she side eyes Xiomara I cackled!
Xiomara was a bad boss 🐝 I loved her energy from start to finish. Loved her bond with her sisters and Jrue’s. Loved how she loved and honored her brother. The connection between her brother and Jrue was *chef’s kiss* Xiomara was about her business, definitely had don’t play with her attitude but still seemed like she’d be down to earth and cool to chill with.
Xiomara and Jrue were a match made in spicy (real spicy) hood heaven! They give you meant to be vibes with a healthy dose of drama. You’ll love the whole gang from the main characters to supporting!
This book was amazing!! Tae you never disappoint!! I didn't want it to be over. Hoping somewhere in the future we will get an update on how Xiomara and Jrue are doing. Xiomara was a social media influencer with a heavy following. Many loved her but few hated on her. Jrue was an upcoming rapper about to take off in his career. Running into Xiomara at a club was the best thing that ever happened for him. They linked up for one of his music videos and the rest was history. There were a few trials that stood in the way. Xiomara had not been in a relationship in a very long time after having her heart broken many years ago. Jrue just didn't know who to trust when it came to women. Many were just after the fame he was gaining. He realized Xiomara was different. She wasn't impressed by what he had and what he could give her. She had her own money and was very independent. She was genuine and like him for who he was as a person.
This was really a good book. I like how Jrue and Xiomara just were a vibe together. They both were really laid back so they didn’t have any drama with each other but outside people kept up plenty trying to tear them apart. Sutton was just delusional and it was like she said if she can’t have Jrue then she didn’t want Omari. I like the relationship that Xiomara and Omari had because she became a mother figure to him. I don’t feel bad about what happened to Whitley because she should’ve been at home resting instead of being out doing the most towards Jrue because he ghosted her. I know this book was about Jrue and Xiomara but I wanted to know who Kinsley was pregnant by even though I suspect that it’s Chance and what happened with Kayleigh and her married baby daddy. I feel like Kinsley and Kayleigh going to have a book together coming out soon. ANDDDDDDDDDDD like we wanted to know Jrue and Xiomara’s baby gender😩😩🤣🤣
I saw someone on IG comment that Tay Mo’nae writes celebrity romances well… and I strongly agree. My first read from her was Drunk in Love. To this day it remains my favorite of her work and her catalog is good.
Now Jrue and Xiomara are competing for that top spot. As for now Kdon and N’yasia is holding the crown.
But I really enjoyed this one. It was not as heavy on drama as some of her other reads and I appreciated that. Sutton was a mess, but it didn’t take over the storyline. I love a strong FMC and we have that with Xiomara.
Now I want the tea on the secrets with the secondary characters. Were Kinsleigh and Chance a thing? I’m not feeling the other twin Kaysleigh… she’s too childish. Either way if Tay drops a few more interconnected standalones, I’m here for it. She definitely left the door open for anything to happen with the other characters.
I went into Wrapped Up in His Ruggish Ways with clear expectations, as Tay Monae is one of my go-to authors—and this story largely delivered what I’ve come to love about her writing.
The emotional connection between the characters was strong and authentic. Tay Monae consistently excels at creating love stories that feel emotionally grounded, and this book was no exception. The characters were engaging, and their relationship developed in a way that felt natural and emotionally satisfying.
What stood out most was the emotional depth woven into the romance. The story captured the push and pull of love in a way that felt genuine rather than rushed, which made the journey rewarding as a reader.
Whelp!!! You can’t ever go wrong with MS. Yay Mo’nae, she going to hit err time whether you have favorites or not. This was a very modern day kind of story and it was good. TRUST was the key and they (the main characters) had it to an extent. I saw the male had it but the female was questioning stuff while her backyard wasn’t clean, but he sure let her know it. I didn’t like nor did I like the FMC, but MC, was the bomb, and just like that this book was elevated because it’s such a beautiful thing to see a male step up and be extremely supportive and vulnerable to the woman, which makes her feel good and safe and seen…. The story was actually GREAT!!!!!
They got together in the most unconventional way but it turned out to be so beautiful. I loved how Xiomara brought out a side to Jrue that no one else could. I love how she didn’t feed into the negativity or BS from his BM. The fact that he cut all his hoes off for her even before then became official was dope. It was her being the woman he didn’t know he wanted or needed and I loved that sis was bout her paper, school, and business (snaps yasssss). Such a good read. I’m galas Sutton got her a** beat cause she was doing the most and she played herself thinking Jrue was gonna also deal with her foolishness. Y’all go read Mara and Jrue story, it ain’t disappoint.
I just loved these characters!! I need more from the twins and Ms. Bestie. Jrue’s and Xiomara momma’s was doing the most to the tenth power! I said they husband’s has to be chill at all times just to deal with them heck. I truly don’t want to go into too much detail about the story, because it was truly 10/10 read to me.
Jrue literally was the man in every aspect of the meaning of being The Man!! This story make you want to write down what you looking for in your husband😆! They equally loved each other and wanted to make sure the other felt how they felt towards the other. Great read!!
Xiomara is model, a college student who is working towards a degree,a social media influencers didn't both any one some called her gold digger talked about her body count. She got much hate because she was in Jrue's video. He got much hate from his bitter baby mama and her followers and the lies she told. You would think that he couldn't have guidance, but he did he was just out there. He got shot got in trouble then he started taking rap seriously. Their chemistry is hot. Omari felt close to Xiomara because she actually spent time with him. Sutton actually cared for him but didn't love him as a mother should. Kinsley is the more sensible twin. Kayleigh is the more childish twin with no sense of direction. Jamir is his accountant and his sister Jream is Xiomara personal assistant,Chance is his homeboy. His is giving Xiomara the side eye because she thinks she's trying to take advantage of him. I don't think Jrue is the father of Whitley baby. Malaya is physical therapist assistant and Xiomara bestie and they didn't play about their money. I love Xiomara for Jrue because she showed him a different way of looking at the world.
I loved Jrue and Xiomara! 🥰 I was literally smiling and kicking my feet reading them. The way a rapper and influencer was written so perfectly, you’d think Tay had inside information on both lol. It made this book so much more realistic. I could visualize everything so perfectly which gave me a better reading experience. I can’t lie, Jrue and Xiomara chemistry was chemistry’ing from their first meet and I was eating it up! Xiomara is definitely one of my favorite female characters. I loved me some Jrue as well. He was a great father. When it came to Xiomara he brung that energy! He was that MAN. Simple! The book was everything!
Beautiful is the only way to describe this book. It was simply a beautiful love story. I absolutely loved these two and found myself smiling throughout their journey.
Xiomara was a boss chick fr she was about her business. Jrue was that 🥷 the biggest ENERGY. That man applied pressure like no other. He made it clear he wasn’t gone play about “mama”. Sutton was trash and a walking embarrassment.
This author is for sure one of my top 5 but I promise this review is not bias. The book is amazing and if you’re reading this just know you will not be disappointed. 📚🖊️🔥👏🏾
(spoiler alerts in the comments) You fall in love with Jrue (Drew). Such a direct and uninhibited type of love. This is a story of a man knowing what he wants and recognizing a good girl that is just for him. Story touched on drug abuse, mental issues, and pure love. Definitely a read with some depth. It would have gotten 5 stars if i didnt feel as though the end was rushed - could have really been a 2 or 3 book series to draw out Xiomara's pregnancy, created a wedding for Jrue and Xiomara, and showed what happened to Sutton in the end (maybe even a tragic end for Sutton). Nevertheless, a good story that made me dream!!
This was a great read. I loved how everything flowed and came together. Xiomara and Jrue were definitely made for each other. She was so calm, cool and collected, she never let the pettiness of social media get to her. Jrue couldn’t have picked the worst baby mama ever. Omari was the greatest kid but his wasn’t missing out on any love his way. Through all the bs and drama, they stayed strong and came out better in the end. Tay you never disappoint and can’t wait to see what you cook up next.
I really love this book she really draws me into the characters I really love her sister unity.The main character and her sister take no shit and they have each other back and when they love hard. It a very spicy book and I recommend you read this book. Xiomara and Jrue are lie couple goals and they are very crazy couple together and even thought they when through their ups and downs they still together even through his crazy baby mama drama.Xiomara is a strong woman her and her sister I can’t wait to find out the rest of her sister story the update on her life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This one surprised me in a good way. I went in expecting a flashy, surface level celebrity romance and ended up getting something a lot more grounded than I thought. Xiomara is a strong FMC in a quiet and steady way. She knows what she wants, she’s focused on her goals, and she doesn’t lose herself just because a man with fame and money enters her orbit. I really appreciated that her ambition stayed intact from start to finish.
Jrue was easy to like. He knew what he wanted, didn’t play games about it, and I loved how intentional he was with Xiomara even while dealing with his own mess. Their chemistry felt natural, not forced, and I liked that their bond grew beyond just physical attraction. When they were in their own little bubble, it worked. This was a solid, enjoyable read with good chemistry, a strong FMC, and a MMC who actually shows up.
I was completely wrapped up in both Xiomara and Jrue. I loved their lives individually but when they came together it was even better. Both of them had interesting back grounds and entertaining lives. It was refreshing that they brought very little drama to each other in spite of the surrounding drama. Great read! I would love to read more about the siblings on both sides!
Yes yes yes Tay Mo’nae you did your big one with this book. I absolutely loved the dynamics of Xiomara and Jute’s relationship they were absolutely perfect together. They faced some drama as any couple does but they were open and honest with each other about what was going on and honey Jrue was not coming up off Xiomara no matter what they went through I loved it. Great job looking forward to the next one!!
I enjoyed Jrue and Xiomara's story! From the beginning, they had so much chemistry that intensified as the story went on. I loved seeing Kazier and Ny'asia in this story! I don't know if Author Tay Mo'nae will be bringing these characters back but I definitely feel like there were some unresolved issues with Xiomara's sisters. Chance also seemed to be hiding something as well. Overall, this story was complete and I enjoyed it!