Step into the sizzling world of the Westmorelands, where passion, family loyalty, and irresistible romance ignite every page! Crafted by Brenda Jackson, this beloved contemporary romance series follows the Westmoreland family, a sprawling clan whose members find love in the most unexpected places. With 27 novels and counting, the series blends heart-pounding chemistry with heartfelt stories, making it a must-read for romance fans.
From Atlanta’s bustling streets to Denver’s rugged landscapes, the Westmorelands deliver diverse settings and characters—think desert sheikhs, Texas rangers, and charming real-estate tycoons. Each book spotlights a different family member, weaving tales of love that conquer all obstacles. Ready to fall for the Westmorelands’ charm? Let’s dive into their story!
How the Westmorelands Began
Brenda Jackson, a trailblazing African-American romance author, launched the Westmorelands series in 2002 with Delaney’s Desert Sheikh. Frustrated by the lack of cultural diversity in romance novels, Jackson set out to create stories featuring African-American characters with rich, relatable lives. Her vision resonated, and the series quickly grew, earning spots on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists. Inspired by her love for family sagas, Jackson crafted the Westmorelands as a tight-knit clan whose bonds fuel their romantic journeys.
Jackson’s own roots in Jacksonville, Florida, and her business administration background shaped her disciplined yet creative approach. Encouraged by her husband to attend a romance writers’ conference, she found her calling. The Westmorelands became her signature series, showcasing her knack for blending steamy romance with themes of loyalty and perseverance.
The Heart of the Westmorelands
The series kicks off with Delaney’s Desert Sheikh, where Delaney Westmoreland’s vacation takes a spicy turn when she shares a cabin with the seductive Sheikh Jamal Ari Yassir. Their fiery chemistry sets the tone for the series. In A Little Dare, Sheriff Dare Westmoreland reconnects with single mom Shelly Brockman, sparking a second-chance romance that tugs at the heartstrings. Thorn’s Challenge pairs the temperamental Thorn Westmoreland with Dr. Tara Mathews, whose no-nonsense attitude challenges his bachelor ways. Meanwhile, Westmoreland’s Way follows real-estate tycoon Dillon Westmoreland as he woos Pamela Novak, unraveling family secrets along the way.
Love, family, and forgiveness weave through every story, set against vibrant backdrops like Montana’s mountains or Atlanta’s urban pulse. Jackson’s style is steamy yet soulful, with strong, independent heroines and charismatic heroes who aren’t afraid to fight for love. The series’ multicultural lens and focus on African-American characters make it a standout, offering representation that resonates deeply with readers.
Whether it’s a fake engagement turning real or a rugged loner meeting his match, the Westmorelands deliver drama, suspense, and swoon-worthy moments. Fans adore the interconnected narratives, where past characters pop up, reinforcing the family’s unbreakable bond.
Why the Westmorelands Resonates
The Westmorelands series has left a lasting mark on contemporary romance, particularly for its celebration of African-American love stories. With over 3 million books in print, Jackson’s work has inspired readers and writers alike, earning her the Romance Writers of America’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. Fans compare the series to cultural touchstones like the Bridgertons for its family-driven drama, praising its ability to blend glamour with heartfelt emotion.
Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes—love conquers all, family is everything—and its fresh perspective on diversity. The series’ adaptations, like the planned film for Jackson’s A Silken Thread, signal its growing cultural footprint. For readers craving escapist yet meaningful romance, the Westmorelands remain a timeless treasure.
- Publication Years: 2002–2018
- Number of Books: 27 novels, plus spin-offs
- Awards: RT Book Reviews Awards (2010–2012), RWA Lifetime Achievement Award (2012)
- Author: Brenda Jackson, first African-American Harlequin Desire author
Grab Delaney’s Desert Sheikh and dive into the Westmorelands’ world of romance, where every heart finds its home!