Let me start by saying how beautiful the cover of this book is! I will be buying it for my shelf as soon as possible. I really liked Dahlia and Winston as a duo. Their journey in this book is quick but enjoyable! With an interesting suspenseful twist too!

This was a nice, lighthearted read that had us traipsing through the snow dusted mountains in search of Dahlia’s sister. Because the two MC’s were alone most of the time, it was nice to get to know them away from other distractions. Winston was grumpy and sweet with how he reluctantly took care of Dahlia. She was excessively chatty but in a way I (thankfully) found endearing, rather than annoying.

The mystery around what happened to her sister and the ultimate climax towards the end was enough to keep the storyline moving forward, though not enough to have me anxiously turning the pages.

Thanks to #NetGallery and the publisher. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Genre: Romance
Format: Digital
POV: Single
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ /5
Age suggestion: 18+

This took me on an adventure straight to the Colorado Rockies. Dahlia is on a quest to find her missing sister and this journey leads her to Winston, who happens to be a grumpy local hermit who is great at being a survivalist. Long story short she blackmails him into being her guide through the wilderness. There is a good balance of tension and romance and gives a "city girl meets mountain man" trope; this is definitely an opposites-attract story. I liked the characters and how they were developed and the descriptions of the wilderness made me feel very present in their story.

4/5 stars
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine, Forced Prox, Opposites Attract


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

I haven't read a Katie Ruggle novel in a minute! I know her for her two Rocky Mountain series, which definitely leaned into the suspense and romance. This one was trying to be a rom-com suspense novel, which didn't work for me.

I liked the setting, the characters were cute, and the plot was interesting in theory. However, the ending when they finally found Dahlia's sister felt rushed. The fact that Dahlia wasn't an outdoorswoman but adapted so quickly felt off, and the fact that Winston upends his life so quickly for Dahlia was too insta-lovey for me. I would have liked to see a little more character development as I think this would have helped make the plot a little more believable.

I want to start by saying thank you to Sourcebooks Casa and NetGalley for approving my request to read "Fish Out of Water" as an advanced reader.

After the disappearance of her sister, Dahlia sets out on a mission to find her. Seeming that she knows little of the outdoors, she convinces a local loner, Winston, to help her navigate the woods and mountains. The banter and chemistry between the two of the main characters is very fun and exciting. I also enjoyed the outdoorsy setting of this story and found the encounters with wildlife to be thrilling! Overall, I liked this book, I wouldn't say I loved it. But I will be recommending this book!

What an adventure!!

I loved everything about this book. From the hilarious commentary of our chatty Cathy FMC, to the rugged mystery of the cinnamon roll MMC, it was a 5 star read for me. As a hiker myself, i loved that it was set on a hiking trip through the Colorado mountains to solve the mystery of the FMC Dahlia's missing sister. Our FMC and MMC fall in love through their adventure to track down the sister and this book tied so many great elements together! On top of being a page-turner, it had me laughing out loud and truly invested in the characters. The romance was sweet and tied up with a nice bow at the end.

This is the first i've read by Katie Rubble and I'm excited to read more from her!

As soon as I read the premise of this book I knew I had to read it.
The promise of strangers to lovers and forced proximity had me excited and I was keen to get stuck into the book. Not only that but the cover is beautiful!!

Even though I was super excited to read this book, I didn't enjoy it at all and I was super disappointed. There were a number of times when reading I thought that the characters choices were super unrealistic (like who is gonna break into a stranger's home and then con them into going on a hiking trip to find your lost sister).
I didn't enjoy the storyline all that much because of this and also the characters didn't have much depth to them. The FMC had a bit of an ego about them and the MMC literally only communicated for most of the book by grunting or raising his eyebrows (and that is not attractive).

The whole book centres around trying to find the main character (Dahlia's) sister as she's vanished in the mountains, and this would be super traumatic for anyone. However, the MC's get it on right in the middle of the hike (like WHAT? Your sister is missing and you're hooking up in a tent while you're looking for her?) - surely you would not be in the headspace for this right?

I wish I liked it more, but it fell short for me.

The characters seemed forced into the plot rather than driving it. I struggled to engage with the romance due to the unrealistic qualities of the male lead, who conveniently possesses a combination of military training, bestselling authorship, and an unlikely appreciation for the female lead's less appealing traits. The female lead, a billionaire's daughter rejecting her privileged lifestyle, lacked a backstory that contributed meaningfully to the plot or character development.

The climax was disappointing as the female lead abruptly shifted from clumsiness to flawlessly executing the plan at the meth house.

It also felt like a reiteration of the author's previous book "Gone Too Deep."

BUT, the author writes well and the plot had good pacing.

I've really enjoyed Katie Ruggle's Search and Rescue and Rocky Mountain K-9 series and was excited about a new book. Fish Out of Water is a little different than her other books because it is less action and adventure. I would say that, except for the last few chapters, it is a contemporary rom-com with opposites attract and grumpy-sunshine vibes. It was pretty light-hearted and funny with spice. Overall, a fun read for a winter weekend.

i don't know how i've never read a katie ruggle book before but i think i'll have to start now.
i debated back and forth between 3.5 and 4 stars, but eventually had to settle on 4.
not only did i start and finish this on the same day, but i was laughing so much during this book, dahlia was so fun and hilarious - i loved everything about her.
i didn't know what to think of winston at first, but he very quickly grew on me -I love a guy who's grouchy on the outside but sweet on the inside. their personalities seemed to be completely opposite to one another, but they complemented each other so well!
this was such an easy read and the plot made you want to keep going to find out what was going to happen. a few bits i did not expect at all! but loved it all the same.
i only debated 3.5 stars as some parts were definitely unrealistic, but books don't necessarily have to be realistic, and it was a cute, fluffy read that i really enjoyed!
i'll definitely be picking up another katie ruggle book after this, and would definitely recommend this one!

Fish Out Of Water
Katie Ruggle
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: February 13, 2024
Genre: Romance


Can we make adventure/outdoorsy romance a sub-genre? It is my absolute favorite! This book marks my third ARC read this year that could fit the niche perfectly, compelling me to believe adventure romance could be a new trend for 2024.

Set in the picturesque Rocky Mountain town of Holling Falls Colorado, Dahlia Weathersby, the determined and bubbly FMC is on a search for her sister- Rose after receiving the secret emergency text they save for each other. Without much help from the police department and the locals, Dahlia breaks into the property of Winston Dale- the last person seen talking with Rose before she sent the frantic text message. Winston, a survival expert and handsome town recluse begrudgingly agrees to assist Dahlia on the search for her missing sister , not realizing how quickly he will be charmed by her silly personality and conversational skills. The adventure together through the woods is blended part romance, part mystery, with Winston teaching Dahlia about backcountry basics and Dahlia teaching Winston about makeovers and new types of exploration (I.e. one sleeping bag scene). There is enough suspense to keep the plot moving , cumulating with the final deadly situation in which Winston and Dahlia must work together in order to complete the rescue mission. While I do find it difficult to believe anyone would be as carefree as Dahlia is while her sister is missing, I appreciate knowing that this is a light, feel good read working towards a happy ending - no need to overthink the logistics.

This book releases just before Valentine’s Day, I encourage you to give it a read if you love your romance with a side of adventure.

Thank you @netgalley and @sourcebookscasa for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

I have been in a bit of a reading slump, and feeling like I need to force myself to read - which only makes me want to read less. That being said, I decided to give this book a go while I was walking on the treadmill at the gym, and I absolutely adored it. I actually didn't write down a ton of notes because I was so intrigued and wanted to keep reading.

The main reason I didn't give the book four stars would be that while the romance was sweet and gooey and everything you could want from a cozy book...it didn't feel overly believable. It was also hard for me to believe that the FMC could consider messing around with some new dude while her sister is potentially in life-threatening danger.

All in all, this was a super cute and cozy romance with some suspense thrown in for good measure. I definitely would recommend this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to review this book in exchange for my honest review.

My Thoughts

Dahlia Weathersby left sunny L.A. for Howling Falls in the forbidding, cold Colorado Rockies after her sister Rose texted her with their own personal 911 message.

Reclusive author Winston Dane turns out to be the last known person Rose spoke to before she left the Yodel Inn on a hiking trip bound for Howling Falls famed waterfall of the same name.

When Dahlia finds out that information she locates the reclusive author and talks him into guiding her to the famous Falls, on the way as they get to know one another her guide becomes more important than she expected as weather conditions escalate.

What started out as a rescue effort turns into something unexpectedly profound on a personal level for both Dahlia and Winston.

An unexpected change near the end with story trajectory and a very satisfying ending when the story finishes.

A very excellent romance story with a little suspense to add to its appeal made this such an easy read sad to have it end.
[EArc from Netgalley]

On every book read as soon as it is done and written up for review it is posted on Goodreads and Netgalley, once released then posted on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles as well.

BOOK REVIEW: #fishoutofwater by @Katie Ruggle

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I am obsessed this was such a great read I really loved this book it was my first book i have ever read by this author and i read it in one night!

Read this if you like:
•grumpy / sunshine
•humor
•camping (or at least a man who can pitch a tent 😉)
•Colorado setting

This book caught me so off guard in the best way! The humor was so fun and seeing Winston thaw out and open up to her was so precious. I binged this book so hard!

Thank you sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Fish Out of Water by Katie Ruggle takes readers on an exhilarating journey deep into the heart of the Colorado Rockies. The story follows Dahlia Weathersby, a determined young woman on a mission to find her missing sister. Faced with the treacherous wilderness, Dahlia enlists the help of Winston Dane, a local hermit and survival expert. What unfolds is a captivating tale of adventure, survival, and unexpected romance. From the very first page, Ruggle captivates readers with her vivid descriptions of the majestic Colorado Rockies. She effortlessly transports us to the rugged terrain, making us feel as if we are right there alongside Dahlia and Winston. The author's attention to detail immerses us in the beauty and danger of the wilderness, creating a palpable sense of tension throughout the story. The dynamic between Dahlia and Winston is one of the many highlights of this book. Dahlia's charm and determination slowly chip away at Winston's gruff exterior, and their evolving relationship adds an element of warmth and humor to the narrative. Ruggle expertly balances their budding romance with the challenges they face, creating a believable and heartwarming connection that readers will root for. As Dahlia and Winston navigate the wilderness, they encounter various obstacles that test their limits. From long hikes through breathtaking landscapes to encounters with bears, the author keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to see how the characters will overcome these challenges. The shared sleeping bag scenario adds an entertaining touch, adding both comic relief and intimacy to their journey. Ruggle's writing style is engaging and fast-paced, ensuring that readers are hooked from start to finish. Her use of witty dialogue and realistic character development breathes life into the story, making it easy to connect with the characters and become invested in their fates. Fish Out of Water is not just a simple adventure tale; it delves into themes of resilience, family bonds, and the strength of the human spirit. Dahlia's determination to find her sister drives the narrative, highlighting the lengths we would go to protect and save the ones we love. In conclusion, Fish Out of Water is a captivating and thrilling novel that seamlessly blends adventure, romance, and suspense. Katie Ruggle's skillful storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of outdoor expeditions and heartfelt journeys. Prepare to be swept away by the majestic Rockies and the indomitable spirit of Dahlia Weathersby as she embarks on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you breathless and longing for more.

This book was not my favourite. There was nothing that special about the characters or the romance.

The characters lacked any real chemistry. It felt like the author threw in every cliche in the book without bringing anything fresh or exciting.

On a positive note, the setting was fun. I'm a sucker for anything involving the wilderness, and that aspect kept me reading. But even the fun setting couldn't salvage this book.

Okay, so the cover and blurb of the book caught my attention so I decided to pick it up. The first half was pretty funny and the writing was engaging. Also the mystery behind Dahlia's sister being missing and sending a code was interesting. Everything was going on well initially but then I started to feel like I bare y knew anything about Dahlia & Winston. Also the connection I was feeling with Dahlia (because she was a city girl and all of that) just diminished I mean she was doing everything apart from focusing on how to find her sister. Wasn't that like her main motivation to come for a hike, to investigate? So that was a bit unrealistic but the romance between Dahlia & Winston was cute and overall, the book has a lighthearted vibe which I liked. The ending was a bit dramatic but it was a nice, fluffy read

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review

As a huge, massive, gigantic fan of The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker, the cover and synopsis for Fish Out of Water thrilled me! City girl x grumpy boy forced together by unforeseen circumstances? Will always be all about it.

Set in mountainous Colorado, Fish Out of Water hits a lot of high notes as Dahlia sets off on a mission to rescue her sister with the help of the town recluse Winston. From the very first meeting, which happens only after she successfully evades the booby traps he designed to keep people out, the banter and chemistry between the pair was evident. The plot gets off to a quick start with this one. Sometimes, in cases like this, I find that the story can start to feel drawn out. But thanks to several exciting wildlife encounters, cold nights where each other became the only refuge, each chapter was a success.

And Winston was so lovely and unexpected! Though he started as a man of few words, his Dahlia drew all the best parts out of him. The care, humor, and vulnerability he came to display resulted in a believable connection though they only knew each other a little more than a week by the final page. Plus, as an added, spicy bonus, the guy blew his girl's mind! in a sleeping bag no less! with little to no experience! Readers in the mood for a romantic and mysterious winter read should keep their eyes on this release.

Thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks and Katie Ruggle for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute, quick read! The characters were likable enough, and I liked the wilderness setting. There were some weird plot details that didn't really seem to fit with the story, but overall it was a pretty cute book.