Step into the sultry, suspense-filled streets of New Orleans, where danger lurks in the shadows and romance simmers under the bayou moon! Lisa Jackson’s New Orleans series is a pulse-pounding collection of romantic suspense novels that blend chilling mysteries, steamy relationships, and the vibrant backdrop of the Crescent City. With detectives like Rick Bentz and Reuben Montoya navigating a world of serial killers and dark secrets, this series hooks readers with its perfect mix of thrills and heart.
From the eerie jazz-filled nights to the haunting beauty of the French Quarter, Jackson’s novels capture the soul of New Orleans while delivering stories that keep you guessing. Whether you’re a fan of gritty crime dramas or love a touch of romance in your mysteries, this series is a must-read for anyone craving an atmospheric escape.
How New Orleans Began
Lisa Jackson, a New York Times bestselling author, launched the New Orleans series in 2001 with Hot Blooded, inspired by her knack for crafting dark, suspenseful tales. A former romance novelist, Jackson found her true calling in romantic suspense, where she could explore the minds of killers and the hearts of heroes. The vibrant, mysterious setting of New Orleans—a city steeped in history and intrigue—became the perfect stage for her gritty narratives, drawing readers into a world where danger and desire collide.
Jackson’s collaboration with her sister, Nancy Bush, on other projects helped hone her ability to weave complex characters and plots. Her love for New Orleans’s unique culture and haunting atmosphere shaped the series, making it a standout in the romantic suspense genre.
The Heart of New Orleans
The New Orleans series spans seven gripping novels, each centered on Detectives Rick Bentz and Reuben Montoya as they tackle chilling cases. Hot Blooded introduces Dr. Samantha Leeds, a radio host targeted by a serial killer with a sinister connection to her past. Cold Blooded deepens the stakes as Bentz and Montoya hunt a methodical murderer in the bayous, with secrets unraveling at every turn. Shiver, another fan favorite, brings psychic visions and ritualistic murders, while Absolute Fear ramps up the terror with a killer tied to an abandoned asylum.
The series shines with its themes of vengeance, betrayal, and redemption, all wrapped in Jackson’s signature blend of romance and suspense. The New Orleans setting is a character in itself, with its misty swamps, historic cathedrals, and jazz-soaked streets amplifying the eerie mood. Jackson’s vivid prose and fast-paced plots create a cinematic experience, making each book a heart-racing journey through love and danger.
Unlike lighter romance novels, the New Orleans series leans into darker, more macabre elements, exploring the psychology of serial killers and their victims. Yet, the romantic threads—whether between detectives or unlikely allies—add warmth and hope, balancing the tension with moments of connection.
Why New Orleans Resonates
The New Orleans series has carved a niche in romantic suspense, captivating fans with its atmospheric storytelling and complex characters. Its blend of local color and universal themes like love and justice makes it timeless, appealing to readers who crave both thrills and emotional depth. Jackson’s ability to craft believable heroes and terrifying villains has earned the series a loyal following, with books like Hot Blooded and Cold Blooded praised for their edge-of-your-seat pacing.
Beyond its entertainment value, the series showcases New Orleans as a cultural gem, celebrating its music, architecture, and mystique. For fans of authors like Tami Hoag or Nora Roberts, Jackson’s work offers a darker, more intense flavor of romantic suspense that lingers long after the final page.
- About New Orleans
- Publication Years: 2001–2012
- Number of Books: 7
- Main Characters: Rick Bentz, Reuben Montoya
- Genre: Romantic Suspense
Ready to get lost in the thrilling world of Lisa Jackson’s New Orleans? Grab Hot Blooded and dive into a sultry, suspenseful adventure that’ll keep you up all night!