And by the time she reached high school, her enjoyment of reading developed into a passion for writing. At Syracuse University, her writing grew deeper and richer as she explored different styles in studio classes. That’s when a dream began to form. It wasn’t until years later when Shamara was commuting daily to Manhattan, that her dream began to take shape. During her commute, Shamara devoured countless novels by authors such as Eric Jerome Dickey, Anne Rice, Terry McMillan and Stephen King. She became inspired to write her own novels and tell her own stories.

Shamara’s first book – Recipe for Love – married her love of writing with her passion for cooking. Recipe for Love received critical acclaim and established her as an author to watch. Fans looked forward to her next book, Close Quarters. It didn’t disappoint. Publishers Weekly said " . . . the central romance is full of warmth and humor. Ray showcases her best when her protagonists trade banter like a modern-day, urban Hepburn and Tracy."

Shamara wants people to lose themselves in her work just as she became captivated with the books of her favorite authors. Her novels You Might Just Get Burned, Rituals for Love, and Cater to You, shine a light on the intricacies of modern relationships. She plans to continue telling relatable stories that people want to read.

Her latest offering, The Referral Program, an engaging novel about a group of single women who come up with a plan to try and meet Mr. Right, is available now.