Step into the sizzling world of the Madaris Family series, where love, passion, and tight-knit bonds ignite every page! Penned by bestselling author Brenda Jackson, this beloved collection of 19 contemporary romance novels, spanning 1995 to 2013, follows the charismatic Madaris family as they navigate heartfelt relationships and personal triumphs. With its vibrant African American characters and steamy love stories, the series has captivated readers and reshaped the romance genre.
From doctors to reporters, each Madaris family member brings a unique spark, making this series a must-read for fans of multicultural romance. Ready to fall in love with a family that’s as unforgettable as their stories? Let’s dive into the heart of the Madaris saga!
How Madaris Family Began
In 1995, Brenda Jackson, a trailblazing author from Jacksonville, Florida, launched the Madaris Family series with her debut novel, Tonight and Forever. Frustrated by the lack of diversity in romance novels, Jackson set out to craft multicultural stories featuring African American characters who embodied love and respect. Inspired by her supportive husband, Gerald, she attended a romance writers’ conference, where she connected with authors like Francis Ray and Rochelle Alers. This fueled her determination to create the Madaris brothers—professional, strong, and devoted men who became the cornerstone of the series.
Jackson’s vision was clear: to write romances that celebrated African American culture while proving that love is universal. Her debut novel’s success with Pinnacle Arabesque paved the way for a prolific career, with the Madaris series growing into a cultural touchstone over nearly two decades.
The Heart of Madaris Family
The Madaris Family series weaves tales of romance and personal growth, each book spotlighting a different family member or friend. In Tonight and Forever (1995), Lorren Jacobs, recovering from a bitter divorce, returns to Texas and finds love with widower Dr. Justin Madaris. Their emotional journey sets the tone for the series’ blend of heartfelt connection and sensuous chemistry. Whispered Promises (1996) follows Dex Madaris as he reconciles with Caitlin, overcoming past mistakes for a blissful reunion, complete with their adorable daughter, Jordan.
Eternally Yours (1997) delivers a fan-favorite love story between playboy Clayton Madaris and Syneda Walters, whose fear of love clashes with their undeniable spark. Unfinished Business (2005) introduces investigative reporter Christy Madaris, whose childhood crush on P.I. Alex Maxwell reignites amidst danger and desire. Themes of trust, commitment, and family unity shine through, set against vibrant backdrops like Texas and beyond. Jackson’s steamy yet tasteful style, paired with strong, relatable characters, keeps readers hooked across the series’ 19 books.
The series’ African American perspective adds depth, celebrating cultural pride and resilience. Whether it’s a Madaris man’s unwavering loyalty or a heroine’s journey to self-discovery, each story balances passion with emotional stakes, making the series both timeless and accessible.
Why Madaris Family Resonates
The Madaris Family series broke ground as one of the longest-running African American romance sagas, with over 3 million books in print. Jackson’s trailblazing role as the first African American author published by Harlequin Desire and her 2012 Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award highlight her impact. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit praise the series for its relatable characters and interconnected stories, often rereading to catch fluffy cameos from past couples.
By centering African American professionals in empowering narratives, the series challenged stereotypes and opened doors for diverse voices in romance. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes—love, family, and second chances—paired with Jackson’s knack for crafting characters who feel like real people. The Madaris family’s legacy continues to inspire readers and writers alike.
- Publication Years: 1995–2013
- Number of Books: 19
- Notable Award: Brenda Jackson’s 2012 Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award
- Books in Print: Over 3 million
Grab Tonight and Forever and dive into the Madaris Family’s world of steamy romance and unbreakable bonds! Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this series promises love stories that linger long after the final page.