Dive into the heart of Texas with Lisa Kleypas’s Travis series, a contemporary romance trilogy that’s all about sizzling chemistry, heartfelt redemption, and family ties that bind. This captivating saga follows the wealthy Travis clan, blending steamy love stories with emotional depth that keeps readers hooked from page one.
Known for her historical romances, Kleypas took a bold leap into contemporary fiction with this series, and fans couldn’t get enough of the Lone Star State’s sexiest siblings. Ready to fall in love with the Travises? Let’s explore their world!
How Travis Began
In 2006, Lisa Kleypas, a New York Times bestselling author, decided to trade Regency ballrooms for modern-day Texas. After a flood devastated her home, she and her mother turned to romance novels for comfort, inspiring Kleypas to craft the Travis series. Published between 2007 and 2009, with a final book in 2015, this trilogy (plus one) was her first foray into contemporary romance, showcasing her knack for emotional storytelling and irresistible heroes.
Kleypas, a former Miss Massachusetts with a political science degree from Wellesley College, drew on her Texas roots to create a vibrant setting. The Travis family, led by patriarch Churchill, emerged as a wealthy, flawed, and fiercely loyal clan, perfect for exploring love’s complexities against Houston’s glittering backdrop.
The Heart of Travis
The Travis series spans four books, each focusing on a different sibling’s journey to love. Sugar Daddy (2007) introduces Liberty Jones, a young woman from the wrong side of the tracks, caught between billionaire Gage Travis and her ambitious childhood crush, Hardy Cates. It’s a tale of self-discovery and unexpected romance that sets the tone for the series.
Blue-Eyed Devil (2008) follows Haven Travis, who returns home after a toxic marriage, only to clash with Hardy Cates, a family rival. This emotionally charged story tackles domestic abuse with sensitivity, blending raw vulnerability with fiery passion. Smooth Talking Stranger (2009) brings Jack Travis, a charming playboy, face-to-face with Ella Varner, who’s raising her sister’s baby. Their witty banter and tender moments make it a fan favorite. Finally, Brown-Eyed Girl (2015) wraps up with Joe Travis, a bachelor who falls for skeptical wedding planner Avery Crosslin, proving love can conquer all.
Set in Houston’s elite society, the series weaves themes of redemption, resilience, and family loyalty. Kleypas’s lush prose and complex characters—like alpha males with tender hearts and fierce heroines—create a world that’s both glamorous and relatable. The Travis siblings’ interconnected stories add depth, making each book a standalone gem that shines brighter together.
Why Travis Resonates
The Travis series struck a chord with romance fans, earning accolades like the All About Romance Reader Awards for Best Contemporary Romance and Best Love Scenes. Kleypas’s ability to tackle heavy topics—poverty, abuse, and heartbreak—while delivering swoon-worthy romance sets the series apart. Its blend of steamy tension and emotional growth appeals to readers craving substance with their spice.
Years after its debut, the Travis series remains a benchmark for contemporary romance, inspiring new authors and keeping fans rereading. Its focus on family dynamics and personal triumph resonates universally, cementing its place as a beloved classic in the genre.
About Travis
- Publication Years: 2007–2015
- Number of Books: 4
- Awards: Multiple All About Romance Reader Awards, including Best Contemporary Romance
- Setting: Houston, Texas
Ready to lose yourself in the Travis family’s world? Grab Sugar Daddy and discover why Lisa Kleypas’s contemporary romance is pure Texas magic!