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The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green: Shrouded Lake Series, Book 1
On a two-lane highway in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Lauren's escape from heartbreaking pain comes to an abrupt stop when she encounters Santiago Stillwater.
Santiago is an intensely self-restrained man and no-nonsense Sheriff, who after years of combat, struggles to cultivate a life of peace in his hometown of Shrouded Lake.
Mysterious deaths, spirits not at rest, and Ms. Green's combative yet captivating nature, impair Santiago's ability to neutralize the dangers threatening both Lauren's and Shrouded Lake's existence.
The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green is a slow burning, small town, enemies to lovers romance. It intertwines gothic mystery and bold sensuality with the courage to love after betrayal.
Santiago is an intensely self-restrained man and no-nonsense Sheriff, who after years of combat, struggles to cultivate a life of peace in his hometown of Shrouded Lake.
Mysterious deaths, spirits not at rest, and Ms. Green's combative yet captivating nature, impair Santiago's ability to neutralize the dangers threatening both Lauren's and Shrouded Lake's existence.
The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green is a slow burning, small town, enemies to lovers romance. It intertwines gothic mystery and bold sensuality with the courage to love after betrayal.
- GenresSuspense
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2025
33 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Shay Rucker
6 books160 followersRomance, fantasy, and horror may seem to be a strange combination for some, but I love reading these genres as much as I love writing in them.
I can't imagine my writing existing without elements of darkness and light.
My perfect life: The Sacred Trio, good health, loved ones, reading, writing, travel, adventure, and simply sitting down with someone and sharing who we are.
I can't imagine my writing existing without elements of darkness and light.
My perfect life: The Sacred Trio, good health, loved ones, reading, writing, travel, adventure, and simply sitting down with someone and sharing who we are.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 19, 2026
wild wren
This is my first book, and now I have to devour the author’s entire catalog. Thank you for writing over 40 main characters. Thank you for knowing what enemies to lovers really means. Thank you for a delicious slow burn. Thank you for well created plot well developed characters and making me laugh out loud the entire time. So glad this is a series and I will get more Lauren and Santi.
This is my first book, and now I have to devour the author’s entire catalog. Thank you for writing over 40 main characters. Thank you for knowing what enemies to lovers really means. Thank you for a delicious slow burn. Thank you for well created plot well developed characters and making me laugh out loud the entire time. So glad this is a series and I will get more Lauren and Santi.
December 14, 2025
What A read!!!
Welcome back Ms Rucker! I ate this up! The characters, the twists and the turns in this story, whew!😅 . I had no idea! The build up between Lauren and Santi was hot! Lauren was one bad azz woman! Santiago was obviously everything she was lacking. I enjoyed their banter, it was delicious! Not one word of their dialogue was flat, I felt like I was looking at a tennis match while reading their back and forth. This read certainly had me feeling like I was one of the supporting characters.
I enjoyed this book so much, a definite reread!
Welcome back Ms Rucker! I ate this up! The characters, the twists and the turns in this story, whew!😅 . I had no idea! The build up between Lauren and Santi was hot! Lauren was one bad azz woman! Santiago was obviously everything she was lacking. I enjoyed their banter, it was delicious! Not one word of their dialogue was flat, I felt like I was looking at a tennis match while reading their back and forth. This read certainly had me feeling like I was one of the supporting characters.
I enjoyed this book so much, a definite reread!
January 2, 2026
Good Book
As i knew that i would....I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Ms. Tucker books never disappoints. Every single female needs a bit of Santi in their lives. I am looking forward to the next book, I have questions.. Well done Ms. Rucker!!!
As i knew that i would....I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Ms. Tucker books never disappoints. Every single female needs a bit of Santi in their lives. I am looking forward to the next book, I have questions.. Well done Ms. Rucker!!!
December 25, 2025
I love this book
Could not put it down. It had me reading on the job and reading it again as so as it ended. I absolutely love your work.
Could not put it down. It had me reading on the job and reading it again as so as it ended. I absolutely love your work.
December 30, 2025
This is the type of book you just have to finish in one sitting because the characters are too funny & have so much sexual tension that you don’t want to turn away from it.
December 12, 2025
Worth the wait
I have been waiting waiting waiting very impatient for the next Shay Rucker book and just Wow this grown folks love story was worth all the wait. I didn't know I need a over 40 year old couple who earned there love story with a fun, gothic tale that awakened my spirit. I just had a unfortunate book experience with a author who gave no honor to her diverse characters. This books was a treat Lauren the main character was crazy and broken and unapologetically herself there will be people that have a problem with her ..I thought she was just the right kind of mess and her man Santi was written to be her perfect grown man match this was sexy before the first kiss. We had to wait in that slow burn place for just the right time and the payoff was fireworks. The heat, the background of crazy characters, mystery and edge of your seat action. Without giving away the plot I will say welcome back Shay..I am buying this book like I have with all your other books.
I have been waiting waiting waiting very impatient for the next Shay Rucker book and just Wow this grown folks love story was worth all the wait. I didn't know I need a over 40 year old couple who earned there love story with a fun, gothic tale that awakened my spirit. I just had a unfortunate book experience with a author who gave no honor to her diverse characters. This books was a treat Lauren the main character was crazy and broken and unapologetically herself there will be people that have a problem with her ..I thought she was just the right kind of mess and her man Santi was written to be her perfect grown man match this was sexy before the first kiss. We had to wait in that slow burn place for just the right time and the payoff was fireworks. The heat, the background of crazy characters, mystery and edge of your seat action. Without giving away the plot I will say welcome back Shay..I am buying this book like I have with all your other books.
December 29, 2025
Deliciously Wicked Ms. Green
What a fitting way to end the Xmas week... Mystery.. Murder.. Suspense..hot romance.. and lots of humor.. I busted out laughing out loud to Lauren and Sheriff Stillwater antics..and the cast of characters.. I normally stay away from grumpy to lovers books...too cheesy and predictable.. but not this one..being the talented writer that she is..Shay's version is an exciting mature romantic novel with characters who did not realize they were going to be madly deeply..solve the murders and mysterious crimes... and have to care for Deborah the 5 year old ghost...I completely enjoyed this book✨
What a fitting way to end the Xmas week... Mystery.. Murder.. Suspense..hot romance.. and lots of humor.. I busted out laughing out loud to Lauren and Sheriff Stillwater antics..and the cast of characters.. I normally stay away from grumpy to lovers books...too cheesy and predictable.. but not this one..being the talented writer that she is..Shay's version is an exciting mature romantic novel with characters who did not realize they were going to be madly deeply..solve the murders and mysterious crimes... and have to care for Deborah the 5 year old ghost...I completely enjoyed this book✨
December 18, 2025
I really felt this book ... Shrouded Lake Book 1
The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green: Shrouded Lake Series, Book 1, had me locked down from the book's description. I love the story of the mystical and mysterious world of the seen and unseen and restless spirits. Lauren and Santiago felt a connection from page 21 to the very end. I immediately wanted to reread the book. This book was sensual, funny, otherworldly, and full of action. Crooked politician and mysterious deaths. I love how Santiago helped Lauren deal with what she was running from. Lauren and Santiago are the dynamic duo!! ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Can't wait for Book 2
The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green: Shrouded Lake Series, Book 1, had me locked down from the book's description. I love the story of the mystical and mysterious world of the seen and unseen and restless spirits. Lauren and Santiago felt a connection from page 21 to the very end. I immediately wanted to reread the book. This book was sensual, funny, otherworldly, and full of action. Crooked politician and mysterious deaths. I love how Santiago helped Lauren deal with what she was running from. Lauren and Santiago are the dynamic duo!! ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 Can't wait for Book 2
December 12, 2025
This author never misses!
This author is a master at world building. She gives you larger than life yet likeable and relatable main characters. The supporting characters bring to life the towns setting and history. Lina was my favorite. She brought Shrouded Lake to life, a place I could never live cuz I'm scary like that lol. The main female charcter was brave , bold and intelligent without being overbearing. She was able to portray her as strong yet vulnerable a trait I love in all the female MCs in her books. Definitely an engaging didn't want to stop mad because its ended read. Ending was well worth it lots of " well dang" moments.
This author is a master at world building. She gives you larger than life yet likeable and relatable main characters. The supporting characters bring to life the towns setting and history. Lina was my favorite. She brought Shrouded Lake to life, a place I could never live cuz I'm scary like that lol. The main female charcter was brave , bold and intelligent without being overbearing. She was able to portray her as strong yet vulnerable a trait I love in all the female MCs in her books. Definitely an engaging didn't want to stop mad because its ended read. Ending was well worth it lots of " well dang" moments.
December 30, 2025
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Found Family, Paranormal, Thriller/Intrigue,
She’s back! Not a holiday story but an awesome gift! I can honestly say that I have read Shay Rucker’s entire collection/catalog and loved EACH one. The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green: Shrouded Lake Series book 1 was released in mid-December and since it is book one, I am already thinking about the possible main characters for book two and three😊.
After a devastating betrayal by ALMOST everyone she holds dear financial guru Lauren Green flees the safe and familiar with very little direction or preparation; she is in survival mode. Her flight comes to a screeching halt in the small town of Shrouded Lake. Eager to continue her impromptu journey, Lauren exits her vehicle to assess the situation (mistake #1). Upon learning that she is being held up by an impaired driver while the local law enforcement presence attempts to finesse and placate the culprit, Lauren offers her unvarnished and incendiary truth (mistake #2). Sheriff Santiago (Santi) Stillwater is doing his best to manage an unmanageable situation; in the best of all possible scenarios, he would be able to process the crime scene and move motorists along. However, his plans are completely derailed by Lauren Green, the most unhinged woman he has ever encountered.
Conclusion:
This book is so much fun, from start to finish. I found my old self literally gasping from laughing so hard. The dialog is stellar and our two main characters had undeniable chemistry even as if that chemistry was leading them into hand-to-hand combat. This is a slow burn story with special emphasis on the burn! Ms. Rucker has marvelously marinated the tropes of found family, intrigue, the other worldly, mystery and criminal elements into absolutely delightful entertainment. The final reveal of the villainous players was surprising; I didn’t see that coming. In addition, the secondary characters are richly drawn, and I imagine that the other two families of the lake have stories to tell….or even Sonny or Roan. Final word…Lauren had some of the energy of Mama from the Mama’s Brood series so in lieu of those awesome characters, Lauren and Santi were welcome substitutes!
Favorite Lines:
A sanctified, supremely practical, patron of all things rational and restrained.
“Do I get to go home if I suck your fingers too, Sheriff?” Clyde called out. “Because I will.”
Life in Appalachia had always been woven within the material of the unknown and unseen.
The level of hate they must’ve had held in all these years—
“You’ll likely be broke within the next year if things don’t turn around… or you sue a woman with actual wealth.”
Now, pull that dress out your ass, get in the house, and lock the door behind you.”
“I don’t give a damn what Anderson Archer requested, Peters. Take Derry, find out what’s going on and play the mayor’s lackey on your own time.”
It’s what we do, you and me. We fight. Me with my unyielding spirit and you with your mouth, your wit, your ability to speak to the heart of things.”
“There are at least four countries I can’t return to this very day because of the women suffering from Stillwater Sexual Syndrome.”
https://theretiredreader.com/f/the-ou...
She’s back! Not a holiday story but an awesome gift! I can honestly say that I have read Shay Rucker’s entire collection/catalog and loved EACH one. The Outrageously Wicked Ms. Green: Shrouded Lake Series book 1 was released in mid-December and since it is book one, I am already thinking about the possible main characters for book two and three😊.
After a devastating betrayal by ALMOST everyone she holds dear financial guru Lauren Green flees the safe and familiar with very little direction or preparation; she is in survival mode. Her flight comes to a screeching halt in the small town of Shrouded Lake. Eager to continue her impromptu journey, Lauren exits her vehicle to assess the situation (mistake #1). Upon learning that she is being held up by an impaired driver while the local law enforcement presence attempts to finesse and placate the culprit, Lauren offers her unvarnished and incendiary truth (mistake #2). Sheriff Santiago (Santi) Stillwater is doing his best to manage an unmanageable situation; in the best of all possible scenarios, he would be able to process the crime scene and move motorists along. However, his plans are completely derailed by Lauren Green, the most unhinged woman he has ever encountered.
Conclusion:
This book is so much fun, from start to finish. I found my old self literally gasping from laughing so hard. The dialog is stellar and our two main characters had undeniable chemistry even as if that chemistry was leading them into hand-to-hand combat. This is a slow burn story with special emphasis on the burn! Ms. Rucker has marvelously marinated the tropes of found family, intrigue, the other worldly, mystery and criminal elements into absolutely delightful entertainment. The final reveal of the villainous players was surprising; I didn’t see that coming. In addition, the secondary characters are richly drawn, and I imagine that the other two families of the lake have stories to tell….or even Sonny or Roan. Final word…Lauren had some of the energy of Mama from the Mama’s Brood series so in lieu of those awesome characters, Lauren and Santi were welcome substitutes!
Favorite Lines:
A sanctified, supremely practical, patron of all things rational and restrained.
“Do I get to go home if I suck your fingers too, Sheriff?” Clyde called out. “Because I will.”
Life in Appalachia had always been woven within the material of the unknown and unseen.
The level of hate they must’ve had held in all these years—
“You’ll likely be broke within the next year if things don’t turn around… or you sue a woman with actual wealth.”
Now, pull that dress out your ass, get in the house, and lock the door behind you.”
“I don’t give a damn what Anderson Archer requested, Peters. Take Derry, find out what’s going on and play the mayor’s lackey on your own time.”
It’s what we do, you and me. We fight. Me with my unyielding spirit and you with your mouth, your wit, your ability to speak to the heart of things.”
“There are at least four countries I can’t return to this very day because of the women suffering from Stillwater Sexual Syndrome.”
https://theretiredreader.com/f/the-ou...
January 14, 2026
I was in the middle of reading another book when I saw Shay Rucker had a new release. I saw the word sheriff in the synopsis and I immediately began reading this story. It does not disappoint!
Lauren Green has suffered a family betrayal that brings her to her knees as it blindsided her. When she is given the news there is an expectation that she'd roll with the punch that had just been delivered. Oh hell naw—Lauren immediately leaves to lick her wounds and heal. Before she gets to her destination destiny strands her in a small town, stuck in traffic on her way to hotel reservation.
Wanting to be on her way and finding herself hindered and detained, she gets vocal with the Sheriff Santiago Stillwater and he had about enough of her smart mouth, so he turns caveman on her. She is determined to make his life miserable and their interactions from that point on are hilarious as Lauren has no filter and she keeps the zingers coming. Inevitably, you know they'll be tangled among his sheets BUT if you think they fall into bed right away, you'd be wrong because the anomosity is real until it isn't!
Just know, Lauren is anticipating the inevitable and so was I and I was not disappointed, at all. I've read a lot of books and this is one book where I wish this man would walk off the pages and into my living 🤣room. He is everything and together they are fire that gets hot, hotter, hottest—they incinerate those sheets.
This story has a lot of secondary characters, and at times I couldn't keep up with all of them but I love the small time feel of this story as well as the mystery of why so many bodies are piling up since Lauren has become a temporary resident of Shrouded Lake. Book One and I savored every word on the page.
Now, Shay Rucker, where's the next Mama Brood installment? I'm waiting though nobody can top Zeus!
Highly, highly, highly Recommended: Read it!
Lauren Green has suffered a family betrayal that brings her to her knees as it blindsided her. When she is given the news there is an expectation that she'd roll with the punch that had just been delivered. Oh hell naw—Lauren immediately leaves to lick her wounds and heal. Before she gets to her destination destiny strands her in a small town, stuck in traffic on her way to hotel reservation.
Wanting to be on her way and finding herself hindered and detained, she gets vocal with the Sheriff Santiago Stillwater and he had about enough of her smart mouth, so he turns caveman on her. She is determined to make his life miserable and their interactions from that point on are hilarious as Lauren has no filter and she keeps the zingers coming. Inevitably, you know they'll be tangled among his sheets BUT if you think they fall into bed right away, you'd be wrong because the anomosity is real until it isn't!
Just know, Lauren is anticipating the inevitable and so was I and I was not disappointed, at all. I've read a lot of books and this is one book where I wish this man would walk off the pages and into my living 🤣room. He is everything and together they are fire that gets hot, hotter, hottest—they incinerate those sheets.
This story has a lot of secondary characters, and at times I couldn't keep up with all of them but I love the small time feel of this story as well as the mystery of why so many bodies are piling up since Lauren has become a temporary resident of Shrouded Lake. Book One and I savored every word on the page.
Now, Shay Rucker, where's the next Mama Brood installment? I'm waiting though nobody can top Zeus!
Highly, highly, highly Recommended: Read it!
January 25, 2026
I am such a true Shay Rucker fan to the point where I was ready to step into the abyss with her in a genre that I don't usually rock with.
And I was not disappointed!!! 5 stars bay-bee!!!
Coming from a romance pov, this is such a delicious slow burn with some moments that had me absolutely laughing out loud. The city mouse/country mouse, small town, enemies to lover dynamic worked out so perfectly for this city mouse. Also, the book moved swiftly, but lingered on the emotional intimacy these two created just enough that it truly touched my jaded little heart.
Lastly, this is Shay's most emotionally intelligent male lead to date and I truly appreciate this. There is nothing, NOTHING more sexy than emotional intelligence and in my opinion, it is imperative for the alpha male trope to be successful for me.
Shay Rucker's writing keeps evolving, and I will surely keep reading her books. I'm so looking forward to whatever adventure she takes us on next.
Last thing... Are you team Wren or team Santi on the grits??? Lauren is my girl but, I am team Santiago all day on this one!!!
And I was not disappointed!!! 5 stars bay-bee!!!
Coming from a romance pov, this is such a delicious slow burn with some moments that had me absolutely laughing out loud. The city mouse/country mouse, small town, enemies to lover dynamic worked out so perfectly for this city mouse. Also, the book moved swiftly, but lingered on the emotional intimacy these two created just enough that it truly touched my jaded little heart.
Lastly, this is Shay's most emotionally intelligent male lead to date and I truly appreciate this. There is nothing, NOTHING more sexy than emotional intelligence and in my opinion, it is imperative for the alpha male trope to be successful for me.
Shay Rucker's writing keeps evolving, and I will surely keep reading her books. I'm so looking forward to whatever adventure she takes us on next.
Last thing... Are you team Wren or team Santi on the grits??? Lauren is my girl but, I am team Santiago all day on this one!!!
January 4, 2026
This was a great enemies to lovers, mature, romantic suspense set in a small mountain town. The main characters are their 40s and cannot stand each other. For the main characters to be "mature", their interactions were childish and petty. Lauren was giving Santiago hell the whole book! I 🤣 She was clearly too much for him and the town's people but that didn't stop her from making herslf at home. I loved the mystery and suspense of the story and its characters and I'm highly anticipating reading the rest of the series.
December 13, 2025
Worth the Wait
I feel like I have been waiting forever for Shay Rucker to write another book, and boy did she deliver! This book has it all— romance, mystery, laughter, and self-help. I absolutely loved the strong FMC and MMC who both had their own share of “make-the-world” a better place brand of stubborn. I highly recommend giving this book a read. Trust me, you’ll come out better after the adventure.
I feel like I have been waiting forever for Shay Rucker to write another book, and boy did she deliver! This book has it all— romance, mystery, laughter, and self-help. I absolutely loved the strong FMC and MMC who both had their own share of “make-the-world” a better place brand of stubborn. I highly recommend giving this book a read. Trust me, you’ll come out better after the adventure.
December 15, 2025
Always want to give infinity stars
Always an interesting ride when reading one of Shay’s books. The books always make you ready for the next installment and this read didn’t disappoint! Lauren was a breath of fresh air. She brought life, light and laughter to a stale town. Always gave the residents of the town something to talk about. Santiago…Santiago is just, all man. The way he checked Derrick! Yep! All man!
Always an interesting ride when reading one of Shay’s books. The books always make you ready for the next installment and this read didn’t disappoint! Lauren was a breath of fresh air. She brought life, light and laughter to a stale town. Always gave the residents of the town something to talk about. Santiago…Santiago is just, all man. The way he checked Derrick! Yep! All man!
December 18, 2025
Welcome back Shay!
This book was everything I thought it would be from one of my favorite authors. This book had some funny characters that had you laughing out loud the storyline was excellent and can’t wait to see how this series will play out. I love the two main characters who both had very strong personalities and while they clashed they knew they were meant for each other. I loved the history of the town and the people I give this book a 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was everything I thought it would be from one of my favorite authors. This book had some funny characters that had you laughing out loud the storyline was excellent and can’t wait to see how this series will play out. I love the two main characters who both had very strong personalities and while they clashed they knew they were meant for each other. I loved the history of the town and the people I give this book a 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 29, 2025
Beautiful return
I am so happy Ms Rucker is back with her craftsmanship, humor and community. I loved the nuance of the area. The chemistry between Santi and Lauren. It took me some time to understand why he nicknamed her wren but I got it. I wish there was a little more spice. But I loved the interrupted moments as well. I look forward to another take out of the Shrouded Lake area.
I am so happy Ms Rucker is back with her craftsmanship, humor and community. I loved the nuance of the area. The chemistry between Santi and Lauren. It took me some time to understand why he nicknamed her wren but I got it. I wish there was a little more spice. But I loved the interrupted moments as well. I look forward to another take out of the Shrouded Lake area.
January 10, 2026
Impossible yet possible
Lauren has known betrayal so deep it sends her fleeing from the comfort of " loved ones ". Santiago is a man of strength in spirit & body. These two meet & clash like thunder & lightening. Yet each soon realizes there is great emotion & tenderness in the other. This was a great story of love & finding where one belongs. However, I feel at the heart it is a spirit & mystery. Come in, sit a spell & enjoy. Can't wait for others in this series.
Lauren has known betrayal so deep it sends her fleeing from the comfort of " loved ones ". Santiago is a man of strength in spirit & body. These two meet & clash like thunder & lightening. Yet each soon realizes there is great emotion & tenderness in the other. This was a great story of love & finding where one belongs. However, I feel at the heart it is a spirit & mystery. Come in, sit a spell & enjoy. Can't wait for others in this series.
January 19, 2026
LOVED IT 🥰
This is my first book by this author and it was a great read. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. Honey, Ms. Green was something else, honey, but I loved her personality and the author showed that she wasn’t a pushover. She wasn’t playing with them people when it came to getting down to the truth about the town. Looking forward to reading more . 😉
This is my first book by this author and it was a great read. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. Honey, Ms. Green was something else, honey, but I loved her personality and the author showed that she wasn’t a pushover. She wasn’t playing with them people when it came to getting down to the truth about the town. Looking forward to reading more . 😉
January 28, 2026
awesome!,
This is my first time reading this author. The writing has movement it flow smoothly over the pages. Keeping involved and seeking the unsure outcome. The characters are well developed with their own stories to tell. They are strong yet vulnerable and there is humor. Loved the supernatural occurrence and how it pulls the story together and also untied the characters . Outstanding read and you will not be disappointed by selecting this book. Wating for the next book.
This is my first time reading this author. The writing has movement it flow smoothly over the pages. Keeping involved and seeking the unsure outcome. The characters are well developed with their own stories to tell. They are strong yet vulnerable and there is humor. Loved the supernatural occurrence and how it pulls the story together and also untied the characters . Outstanding read and you will not be disappointed by selecting this book. Wating for the next book.
February 1, 2026
She's Backkkkkk!!!!!
Girl you came back with a bang. There were some typos but I could let them or grammatical errors influence my overall rating of your book. The book was harlarious, fun, interesting and just a super good read! The extra characters were interesting also, so Im sure you are gonna have followup books. Dont know if you can out do this one but I hope you try. Congrats Ms Rucket you did really well.
Girl you came back with a bang. There were some typos but I could let them or grammatical errors influence my overall rating of your book. The book was harlarious, fun, interesting and just a super good read! The extra characters were interesting also, so Im sure you are gonna have followup books. Dont know if you can out do this one but I hope you try. Congrats Ms Rucket you did really well.
December 17, 2025
Amazing
Even though this is a slow burn...there is🔥🔥 from their first meeting. Ms. Rucker has a way of bringing life characters from the pages she writes which makes you root for some and despise others. The story grabs hold of you from the beginning with laugh out loud moments even in the despair of the moment. She is an AMAZING story teller; this would make a GREAT movie.
Even though this is a slow burn...there is🔥🔥 from their first meeting. Ms. Rucker has a way of bringing life characters from the pages she writes which makes you root for some and despise others. The story grabs hold of you from the beginning with laugh out loud moments even in the despair of the moment. She is an AMAZING story teller; this would make a GREAT movie.
December 20, 2025
Wicked indeed!
Lauren and Santiago were unexpected in a good way. Lauren was betrayed by her family and took off for parts unknown; a side trek loses her a reservation and a gain of a jail cell. A Sheriff, a drunk, self revelations, and murder. Oh, and love. So much love.
I have missed my girl, Shay Rucker! Welcome back sister-friend.
Lauren and Santiago were unexpected in a good way. Lauren was betrayed by her family and took off for parts unknown; a side trek loses her a reservation and a gain of a jail cell. A Sheriff, a drunk, self revelations, and murder. Oh, and love. So much love.
I have missed my girl, Shay Rucker! Welcome back sister-friend.
January 8, 2026
She’s back!!!!
This was so long overdue! This book was amazing and so well written. I thoroughly enjoyed every word. I have laughed and ooh’ed and ahh’ed. I’ve lost sleep but I don’t care because Shay Rucker’s books are worth every minute of sleep lost. Job well done Shay! I’m adding this one to my forever book collection.
This was so long overdue! This book was amazing and so well written. I thoroughly enjoyed every word. I have laughed and ooh’ed and ahh’ed. I’ve lost sleep but I don’t care because Shay Rucker’s books are worth every minute of sleep lost. Job well done Shay! I’m adding this one to my forever book collection.
January 12, 2026
Great Story
Shay Rucker is a great author. The stories are entertaining, and enthralling. Once I start reading one of her books I can’t put it down. This one was no different. The characters were well developed. I loved the banter between the two main characters. It’s a will read again for me.
Shay Rucker is a great author. The stories are entertaining, and enthralling. Once I start reading one of her books I can’t put it down. This one was no different. The characters were well developed. I loved the banter between the two main characters. It’s a will read again for me.
December 17, 2025
Shay Rucker!! Why do you hate us?!
I have waited somewhat patiently for the next Mother’s Brood book, and now you bringing us another 🔥 series! Now I have to wait for Sonny’s book and Roan and St. James book too. Woman, you need to get to writing….tout suite!
I have waited somewhat patiently for the next Mother’s Brood book, and now you bringing us another 🔥 series! Now I have to wait for Sonny’s book and Roan and St. James book too. Woman, you need to get to writing….tout suite!
January 6, 2026
The Best
I absolutely loved the book from beginning to end. The lead characters were strong and realized that they loved and needed one another. I also liked the supporting characters. When is book 2 coming ? I can't wait! Robin Ferdinand
I absolutely loved the book from beginning to end. The lead characters were strong and realized that they loved and needed one another. I also liked the supporting characters. When is book 2 coming ? I can't wait! Robin Ferdinand
January 18, 2026
fun. sweet. well written. full of surprises
Lauren and Santiago are written so fully and their evolution and story unfolds so naturally that you won’t be able to put it down. I love a well written book. I’d read anything by Shay.
Lauren and Santiago are written so fully and their evolution and story unfolds so naturally that you won’t be able to put it down. I love a well written book. I’d read anything by Shay.
January 30, 2026
Excellent
I am so happy that this author has returned. This book was filled with mystery, and laughter. I only wish that I could give it 10 stars. I am happy that it did not end in a cliff hanger.
Highly recommended.
I am so happy that this author has returned. This book was filled with mystery, and laughter. I only wish that I could give it 10 stars. I am happy that it did not end in a cliff hanger.
Highly recommended.
December 11, 2025
Shanti & Lauren
As usual Ms. Rucker does not disappoint! Loved this book. Loved all of the characters. I hope Julian & Roan have a story.
As usual Ms. Rucker does not disappoint! Loved this book. Loved all of the characters. I hope Julian & Roan have a story.
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