Step into the sun-drenched vineyards and passionate love stories of the Drakes of California, a ten-novel romance saga by Zuri Day that blends luxury, family drama, and heart-pounding romance. This series invites readers into the glamorous world of the Drake family, where every sip of wine comes with a chance at true love. Ready to lose yourself in California’s wine country?
With its vivid characters and steamy plots, Drakes of California has become a beloved escape for romance fans, offering a mix of opulent settings and heartfelt connections that keep readers turning pages late into the night.
How Drakes of California Began
Zuri Day, a bestselling author with a passion for happy endings, launched the Drakes of California series in 2012 with Diamond Dreams. Growing up in a small Kansas town, Day found solace in romance novels, which inspired her to craft stories that ignite hope and belief in love. Her vision for the Drakes was to create a wealthy yet relatable African-American family navigating the complexities of love against the backdrop of California’s wine industry, drawing readers into a world of glamour and emotion.
Day’s Jamaican roots and Los Angeles lifestyle infuse her writing with vibrant cultural details and a deep appreciation for family bonds, making the Drakes a dynasty readers can root for. Her goal? To remind us that love conquers all, even in a world of vineyards and vendettas.
The Heart of Drakes of California
The series kicks off with Diamond Dreams, where Diamond Drake, the devoted daughter of the Drake wine dynasty, meets construction millionaire Jackson Wright. Their whirlwind romance sets the tone for the series, blending sensuality with suspense as they navigate past heartbreaks. In Champagne Kisses, heir Donovan Drake’s fast-paced lifestyle slows when he falls for employee Marissa Hayes, proving love can change even the most commitment-shy bachelor.
Platinum Promises introduces Dexter Drake, a playboy whose resort empire thrives until Dr. Faye Buckner’s kindness sparks unexpected feelings, while Crystal Caress takes readers to Alaska, where Teresa Drake’s fiery spirit meets Atka’s old-fashioned charm in an interracial love story. Themes of family loyalty, personal growth, and overcoming past betrayals weave through each book, set against lush settings like sprawling vineyards, luxury spas, and Arctic nights. Day’s lush prose and knack for balancing drama and romance create characters who feel like friends you’re cheering for.
The series’ diversity—spanning locations from California to Alaska and featuring strong, relatable heroines—sets it apart in the contemporary romance genre. Whether it’s the tension of a political campaign in Secret Silver Nights or the danger in Decadent Desire, each novel delivers passion with a side of real-world stakes.
Why Drakes of California Resonates
Drakes of California has carved a niche in romance for its portrayal of an affluent African-American family, offering representation that resonates with readers seeking diverse love stories. Fans praise Day’s ability to craft steamy yet classy romance, with RT Book Reviews giving Crystal Caress four stars for its vivid Alaskan scenery and family focus. The series’ blend of luxury and relatability makes it a go-to for readers craving escapism with heart.
Day’s stories remind us that love is worth believing in, inspiring readers to embrace hope and connection. With over 1,500 Goodreads ratings averaging 4.34, the series continues to captivate, proving its lasting appeal in a crowded genre.
- First Book: Diamond Dreams (2012)
- Total Books: 10
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
- Awards: Zuri Day is an EMMA and AALAS Best Fiction award winner
Dive into Diamond Dreams and let the Drakes of California sweep you into a world of wine, wealth, and unforgettable romance!