Step into the sultry, suspenseful world of Copper Lake, Georgia, where small-town charm hides dark secrets and sizzling romance! Marilyn Pappano’s Copper Lake series, a beloved romantic suspense saga, weaves gripping tales of love, danger, and mystery. Since its debut in 2007, this Harlequin Romantic Suspense series has captivated readers with its interconnected standalone novels, each centered on the enigmatic Calloway brothers and other residents navigating the town’s shadowy underbelly.
With its lush Georgia setting halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, Copper Lake feels like a character itself—steamy, secretive, and full of surprises. Whether you’re a fan of heart-pounding thrillers or swoon-worthy romances, this series delivers a perfect blend of both, making it a must-read for genre enthusiasts.
How Copper Lake Began
Marilyn Pappano, a USA TODAY bestselling author with over 80 books to her name, crafted Copper Lake as a vivid backdrop for her signature romantic suspense style. Inspired by her time living in Georgia during her husband’s Navy career, Pappano infused the series with the state’s humid charm and close-knit community vibes. Launched with Murphy’s Law in 2007, the series grew from her knack for creating richly textured characters facing high-stakes drama, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim, including RITA awards.
The Heart of Copper Lake
The Copper Lake series spans multiple novels, each a standalone story tied by the town’s mysteries and recurring characters like the Calloway brothers. In Copper Lake Encounter (2013), Nev Wilson arrives in town driven by prophetic dreams, only to uncover a chilling truth with detective Ty Gadney by her side. Undercover in Copper Lake (2014) follows DEA informant Sean Holigan, who confronts his past while protecting his nieces, sparking passion with foster mom Sophy Marchand. Copper Lake Confidential (2013) dives into Macy Howard’s return to her haunted hometown, where she grapples with paranoia and finds love with veterinarian Stephen Noble. Intimate Enemy (2008) explores lawyer Jamie Munroe’s tense chemistry with a man linked to her past, unraveling a dangerous plot.
Themes of trust, redemption, and confronting past traumas pulse through the series, set against Copper Lake’s deceptively idyllic backdrop. Pappano’s style balances steamy romance with intricate suspense, keeping readers guessing with twists and layered characters. The Georgia setting—think humid summers, charming squares, and hidden estates—grounds the stories in a tangible, atmospheric world that fans praise for feeling like a real place.
Why Copper Lake Resonates
Copper Lake’s allure lies in its ability to blend heart-racing suspense with deeply human relationships, resonating with fans of romantic suspense. Pappano’s knack for crafting flawed, relatable characters—like reformed bad boys or resilient heroines—has earned glowing reviews, with Undercover in Copper Lake scoring 4.5 stars from RT Book Reviews for its passionate chemistry and intricate plot. The series’ standalone yet interconnected nature makes it accessible for newcomers while rewarding longtime readers with familiar faces. Its lasting appeal stems from its timeless exploration of love conquering danger, cementing Pappano’s legacy in the genre.
- About Copper Lake
- Publication Years: 2007–present
- Number of Books: At least 8 known titles
- Publisher: Harlequin Romantic Suspense
- Awards: Marilyn Pappano has won RITA and RT Reviewers Choice Awards
Ready to get swept away? Grab Murphy’s Law and dive into Copper Lake’s thrilling blend of romance and mystery!