Step into the sizzling world of the Forged of Steele series, where passion, family, and irresistible romance ignite in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona! Created by Brenda Jackson, a trailblazing queen of multicultural romance, this beloved contemporary romance series follows the charismatic Steele family as they navigate love, ambition, and steamy connections. Since its debut in 2006, Forged of Steele has captivated readers with its heartfelt stories and unforgettable characters, making it a must-read for romance enthusiasts.
With 13 books and a novella, each novel stands alone, offering a fresh dive into the lives of the Steele brothers and their extended family. Whether you’re new to Jackson’s work or a longtime fan, the Forged of Steele series promises a rollercoaster of emotions and chemistry that’ll leave you swooning.
How Forged of Steele Began
Brenda Jackson, a New York Times bestselling author and the first African-American to publish with Harlequin Desire, launched the Forged of Steele series in 2006 with Solid Soul. Inspired by her desire to craft diverse, empowering romance stories, Jackson created the Steele family—a wealthy, tight-knit clan of African-American professionals in Phoenix. Her goal was to showcase Black love, success, and familial bonds, countering stereotypes with vibrant, relatable characters. The series quickly gained traction, blending Jackson’s signature polished prose with sizzling romantic tension, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim.
The Heart of Forged of Steele
The Forged of Steele series shines through its vivid characters and compelling narratives. Take Solid Soul (2006), where Chance Steele, a driven CEO, clashes with Kylie Hagan, a single mom, sparking a romance that balances family loyalty and fiery attraction. In Irresistible Forces (2008), Taylor Steele proposes a no-strings ‘procreation vacation’ with tycoon Dominic Saxon, only for their Caribbean fling to blur the lines between passion and love. Seduced by a Steele (2020) follows Mercury Steele, a playboy sports agent, whose pursuit of a stolen car leads to an unexpected connection with runaway heiress Sloan Donahue. Finally, Claimed by a Steele (2020) sees trucking CEO Gannon Steele’s cross-country trip with reporter Delphine Ryland turn from business to pleasure.
Jackson weaves themes of love, trust, and personal growth, set against Phoenix’s vibrant backdrop. Her stories celebrate Black excellence, with characters who are CEOs, sports agents, and financial advisors, all while exploring universal romantic struggles. The series’ steamy yet heartfelt tone, combined with strong family dynamics, makes each book a page-turner. Readers praise Jackson’s ability to craft standalone novels that feel interconnected, creating a rich, binge-worthy saga.
Why Forged of Steele Resonates
Forged of Steele has left a lasting mark on contemporary romance, particularly for its representation of Black love and success. As one of the first African-American-led series in Harlequin’s Desire line, it broke barriers, offering diverse narratives that resonate with readers craving authentic representation. Fans adore the Steele brothers’ charm and the series’ blend of drama, sensuality, and emotional depth. With over 3 million books in print and a 2012 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award for Jackson, the series’ impact is undeniable, inspiring new generations of romance writers and readers.
- Publication Years: 2006–2020
- Number of Books: 13 books, 1 novella
- Setting: Phoenix, Arizona
- Awards: Jackson’s 2012 RWA Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award
Ready to fall in love with the Steele family? Grab Solid Soul and dive into the Forged of Steele’s irresistible world of romance today!