Dive into the sizzling world of Ray, where New York City’s vibrant pulse meets steamy romance and heartfelt friendships! E.L. Todd’s Ray series, a contemporary romance saga, follows Rae and her quirky circle as they navigate love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. With its blend of humor, passion, and relatable characters, this series hooks readers from the first page.
Picture this: a dog park meet-cute, a tangled web of relationships, and a cast of friends who feel like family. Whether you’re a romance aficionado or just craving an emotional rollercoaster, Ray delivers a delicious escape into modern love’s highs and lows.
How Ray Began
E.L. Todd, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, crafted the Ray series in 2017, drawing from her love for vibrant characters and complex relationships. Born in sunny California and later settling in New York City, Todd infuses her stories with the city’s electric energy. Inspired by her knack for witty dialogue and steamy romance, she created Ray to explore love’s messy, beautiful reality, making it a standout in her extensive catalog of over 100 novels.
The Heart of Ray
The series kicks off with Ray of Light, where Rae, a smart and spirited heroine, meets Ryker, a charming heartbreaker, in a New York park. Their instant chemistry sparks a slow-burn romance, complicated by Ryker’s ties to Rae’s brother and their shared workplace. Ray of Hope deepens their connection, testing Rae’s heart as secrets unravel. In Ray of Love, heartbreak strikes when Ryker ends things, pushing Rae toward her lifelong friend Zeke, while Ray of New shifts to Ryker’s fresh start in New York with Austen, a woman healing from her own past.
Set against Manhattan’s glittering skyline, the series weaves themes of loyalty, self-discovery, and the courage to love again. Todd’s prose is light yet poignant, balancing laugh-out-loud banter with tear-jerking moments. The alternating perspectives of Rae and her brother Rex add depth, letting readers peek into sibling bonds and romantic entanglements. From steamy scenes to heartfelt confessions, Ray captures the chaos and joy of modern relationships.
Why Ray Resonates
The Ray series has carved a niche among romance fans for its relatable characters and emotional depth. Readers praise its strong, confident women like Rae, who own their flaws and triumphs, and alpha males like Zeke and Ryker, who balance charm with vulnerability. With over two million books sold worldwide, Todd’s ability to craft addictive, character-driven stories shines in Ray, earning glowing reviews for its humor and heart. Its focus on friendship and family alongside romance makes it a comforting yet thrilling read.
Though less sprawling than Todd’s 47-book Forever and Ever series, Ray’s seven novels pack a punch, offering a binge-worthy escape that feels both intimate and universal. Its New York setting and timeless themes keep fans returning, eager for more of Todd’s signature spark.
- Publication Years: 2017
- Number of Books: 7
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
Ready for a romance that’s equal parts spicy and sweet? Grab Ray of Light and lose yourself in Rae’s vibrant world of love, laughter, and New York City magic!