Picture a New Orleans historian weaving tales of passion and intrigue that captivate romance lovers worldwide—meet Maria Luis! An Amazon Top 25 Bestselling Author, Luis blends her expertise in 14th-century London and 19th-century New Orleans with sizzling contemporary and dark romance novels. Her vivid storytelling and unforgettable characters have carved her a unique space in the romance genre, making her books a must-read for fans of heartfelt, steamy narratives.
From her sultry NOLA Heart series to the gritty Broken Crown trilogy, Luis’s work pulses with the cultural flair of New Orleans and the intrigue of historical scandals. Ready to dive into a world where strong heroines meet brooding alphas? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this romance powerhouse!
The Making of Maria Luis
Born with a love for books, nature, and all things pretty, Maria Luis swapped the chilly winters of Boston for the vibrant, humid streets of New Orleans. By day, she’s a historian, diving deep into the archives of 14th-century London and 19th-century New Orleans, where scandals, disease, and crime fuel her curiosity. This fascination with human drama naturally spilled into her writing, where she crafts stories that blend historical richness with modern romance. Her journey as an author began with a passion for storytelling, inspired by favorites like Lisa Kleypas’s Scandal in Spring, which she’s read to tatters. Luis’s dual life as a historian and novelist allows her to infuse her books with authentic, vivid settings that transport readers.
Maria Luis’s Unforgettable Stories
Luis’s bibliography is a treasure trove of romance, spanning contemporary, sports, and dark subgenres. Her NOLA Heart series kicks off with Say You’ll Be Mine, a second-chance romance set in New Orleans. Here, Shaelyn Lawrence faces her past and her ex, detective Brady Taylor, in a story brimming with humor, heart, and steamy tension. The series, praised for its quirky characters and vibrant settings, captures the Big Easy’s soul across four books, ending with Tempt Me With Forever, a playful tale of a bad-boy tattoo artist and a spirited heroine.
In contrast, the Broken Crown trilogy ventures into darker territory. Road to Fire, the first book, introduces Saxon Priest, a cold-hearted villain, and Isla Quinn, a fierce warrior with secrets. Set against a backdrop of political unrest in a modern-day monarchy, this royal romance weaves suspense, betrayal, and soul-wrenching love. Readers rave about its gripping plot and electric chemistry, with the series earning a spot as a top read of 2020. Luis’s style shines through her ability to craft flawed, relatable characters and immersive worlds, whether she’s penning lighthearted rom-coms or intense, gritty dramas.
Other notable works include the Blades Hockey series, starting with Power Play, which blends sports romance with emotional depth, and the Put a Ring on It trilogy, known for its slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers vibes. Luis’s versatility and knack for intertwining her worlds—often featuring cameo appearances from past characters—keep readers hooked and eager for more.
Why Maria Luis Matters
Maria Luis has redefined contemporary romance by infusing it with historical depth and New Orleans’ vibrant culture. Her ability to balance humor, heartache, and heat resonates with readers, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim. Beyond her storytelling, Luis connects with fans through social media and her website, offering free novellas like Breathless and The First Fix to keep the romance alive. Her work inspires readers to embrace love’s complexities, proving that even broken characters deserve happy endings. As a historian-turned-author, she bridges past and present, making romance feel timeless.
- Key Works: Say You’ll Be Mine, Road to Fire, Power Play
- Genres: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance, Sports Romance
- Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Favorite Book: Scandal in Spring by Lisa Kleypas
Snag Road to Fire or Say You’ll Be Mine and dive into Maria Luis’s steamy, soulful romance world! Whether you’re craving a lighthearted escape or a dark, thrilling ride, her stories promise to sweep you off your feet.