Step into the thrilling world of the First Family series by Marie Force, where political intrigue, romantic suspense, and family drama collide in the heart of Washington, D.C.! This captivating series follows Lieutenant Sam Holland, a tenacious homicide detective, and her husband, Nick Cappuano, who unexpectedly becomes President of the United States. With a perfect blend of heart-pounding mysteries and heartfelt romance, First Family offers a front-row seat to the chaos and charm of life in the White House.
Whether you’re a fan of romantic suspense or crave stories that weave love, power, and danger, this series delivers. From high-stakes murder investigations to tender family moments, Sam and Nick’s journey is as glamorous as it is gritty. Ready to explore their wild ride? Let’s dive in!
How First Family Began
Marie Force, a New York Times bestselling author, launched the First Family series in 2021 as a continuation of her wildly popular Fatal series. Inspired by the dynamic interplay of politics and personal life, Force envisioned a story that thrust her beloved characters, Sam and Nick, into the ultimate spotlight: the White House. The series began with a bold premise—Nick’s sudden ascension to the presidency after a shocking event, forcing Sam to balance her detective work with her new role as First Lady.
Force’s knack for blending romance with suspense shines through, drawing on her love for complex characters and real-world settings. Her goal? To craft a series that feels like a TV drama, complete with witty banter, emotional depth, and edge-of-your-seat plot twists. The result is a saga that’s as addictive as it is unforgettable.
The Heart of First Family
The First Family series kicks off with State of Affairs (2021), where Nick is sworn in as president after a national tragedy, and Sam juggles a gang rape case, a murder, and a media frenzy. In State of Grace (2021), Sam tackles a chilling murder case during the holiday season, while Nick navigates a national crisis. State of the Union (2022) dives deeper into political scandals and personal threats, and State of Suspense (2024) sees Sam chasing a high-profile killer while Nick hosts a state dinner.
At its core, the series is a masterclass in romantic suspense, weaving themes of love, loyalty, and resilience. Set against the iconic backdrop of Washington, D.C., the stories pulse with authenticity, from the bustling Metro Police Department to the stately White House. Force’s style is fast-paced yet intimate, balancing gritty crime scenes with tender moments between Sam, Nick, and their extended family. Fans love the series’ ability to keep them guessing with clever plot twists and relatable characters.
The First Family series isn’t just about solving crimes—it’s about the strength of relationships under pressure. Sam’s fierce independence and Nick’s steadfast support create a partnership that anchors the chaos, while their interactions with friends, colleagues, and kids add warmth and humor. It’s a world where danger lurks, but love always finds a way.
Why First Family Resonates
The First Family series has carved a niche in romantic suspense, captivating readers with its unique blend of high-stakes drama and heartfelt storytelling. Fans praise its addictive quality, often comparing it to a binge-worthy TV show. Marie Force’s ability to evolve Sam and Nick’s story from the Fatal series into a fresh yet familiar saga has won over loyal readers and newcomers alike.
Its lasting appeal lies in its relatability—despite the glamorous setting, Sam and Nick face universal struggles like balancing work and family. The series’ focus on strong female leads and authentic relationships resonates with readers, while its political intrigue taps into a fascination with power and responsibility. With over 15 million books sold worldwide, Force’s storytelling continues to leave a mark.
- Publication Years: 2021–2024 (ongoing)
- Number of Books: 8, with a 9th, State of Retribution, set for 2025
- Genres: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance
- Setting: Washington, D.C.
Grab State of Affairs and dive into the First Family’s thrilling world of romance, mystery, and power! Whether you’re solving crimes with Sam or navigating diplomacy with Nick, this series promises a wild, romantic ride you won’t forget.