Step into the vibrant world of the Art of Love series by Donna McDonald, where romance blooms amidst the strokes of creativity and the complexities of family ties! This contemporary romance saga, infused with humor and heart, follows the Larson family—artists navigating love’s unpredictable canvas. With mature characters and authentic relationships, it’s a refreshing take on love that resonates with readers craving emotional depth and laughter.
From the moment you open the first book, you’re drawn into a world where love isn’t just a feeling—it’s an art form. Whether it’s a sculptor chiseling stone or a graphic novelist sketching dreams, McDonald’s characters prove that passion and creativity go hand in hand. Ready to explore this captivating series? Let’s dive in!
How Art of Love Began
Donna McDonald, a USA Today Bestselling Author, launched the Art of Love series in 2011 with Carved in Stone. Hailing from Vanceburg, Kentucky, McDonald’s love for storytelling and humor shines through her work. Inspired by the idea that love transcends age, she crafted a series centered on mature characters—particularly the Larson men—whose artistic pursuits mirror their quests for romance. Her goal? To blend romantic comedy with real-life challenges, creating stories that make readers laugh, cry, and cheer.
McDonald’s background in multi-genre writing, from sci-fi to paranormal, gave her the tools to weave humor and emotion into contemporary romance. The series’ inception was a nod to readers seeking relatable, older protagonists who still embrace passion and adventure. With six books now in the series, it’s a testament to her knack for crafting heartfelt narratives.
The Heart of Art of Love
The series kicks off with Carved in Stone, where Will Larson, a 53-year-old sculptor and divorced father, meets Jessica Daniels, a bold art teacher. Their fiery chemistry sparks a journey of second chances, complicated by family dynamics. Created in Fire follows Will’s son Michael, whose unexpected fatherhood tests his romance with Carrie. Captured in Ink dives into Shane Larson’s story, a graphic novelist whose one-night stand with Reesa blossoms into love despite her jaded heart. Carved in Wood, the sixth book, explores Joseph and Jillian’s passionate yet fraught connection, tangled by family meddling.
Art of Love thrives on themes of resilience, family bonds, and love’s transformative power. Each hero is an artist—sculptors, painters, or writers—whose creations reflect their emotional journeys. The heroines, often carrying past wounds, find healing through love. Set in a contemporary world, the series blends humor with raw emotion, tackling real issues like divorce, loss, and aging. McDonald’s witty dialogue and vivid characters make every book a page-turner, with romance that feels both steamy and soulful.
The Larson family’s interconnected stories create a rich tapestry, where each book stands alone but shines brighter together. Readers praise the series for its realistic portrayal of mature love, proving passion doesn’t fade with age. The blend of comedy and heartfelt moments keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.
Why Art of Love Resonates
The Art of Love series has carved a niche in contemporary romance for its focus on older protagonists and authentic relationships. Fans adore McDonald’s ability to balance humor with emotional depth, making the Larson family feel like old friends. The series’ emphasis on art as a metaphor for love resonates with readers who see romance as a creative, evolving process. Its impact lies in showing that love, like art, is timeless—appealing to those who crave stories of second chances and personal growth.
With strong reader reviews on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon, the series has built a loyal following. It’s a reminder that romance novels can be both fun and profound, offering hope and laughter to readers of all ages. McDonald’s work continues to inspire, proving that love stories can be as diverse as the people who live them.
- Number of Books: Six
- First Published: 2011
- Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Ready to fall in love with the Larson family? Grab Carved in Stone and dive into the Art of Love’s heartfelt, hilarious world!