Picture a Rhode Island dreamer spinning tales of love that captivate millions—meet Marie Force! A New York Times bestselling author, Force has redefined contemporary romance with her heartfelt stories and bold self-publishing journey. Her McCarthys of Gansett Island series, with over 1.5 million copies sold, invites readers into a world of family, passion, and seaside charm.
From her small-town roots to global acclaim, Force’s path is a testament to persistence and a deep connection with fans. With over 15 million books sold worldwide, she’s a romance powerhouse who proves love stories can change lives. Let’s dive into her journey, works, and why she’s a must-read for romance lovers!
The Making of Marie Force
Born in Newport, Rhode Island, Marie Force grew up in a close-knit family, her father running an aviation repair business. A graduate of Middletown High School and the University of Rhode Island, where she majored in journalism and political science, Force’s early career took her across Spain, Maryland, and Florida, thanks to her Navy husband, Dan. Her love for storytelling blossomed after returning to Rhode Island in 2001, encouraged by Dan to pursue writing full-time. Her first novel, Line of Scrimmage, published in 2008, marked the start of a prolific career, fueled by her knack for crafting relatable characters and steamy romance.
Marie Force’s Unforgettable Stories
Force’s signature series, The McCarthys of Gansett Island, launched with Maid for Love in 2011, a self-published hit that sold over 2.5 million copies. Set on a fictionalized Block Island, the series follows the McCarthy family and their friends, blending small-town warmth with sizzling romance. Each of its 29 books, like Fool for Love and Renewal After Dark (2024), delivers a standalone love story while weaving ongoing family sagas, keeping readers hooked.
Beyond Gansett, Force’s Fatal series dives into romantic suspense, following D.C. detective Sam Holland and Senator Nick Cappuano through gripping mysteries and passionate love. Her Quantum series explores erotic romance, tackling celebrity lifestyles and dominant relationships with bold flair. Force’s writing shines with vivid settings, emotional depth, and themes of family, resilience, and second chances, making her books irresistible to romance fans.
Her Green Mountain and Butler, Vermont series add cozy, heartfelt tales to her repertoire, showcasing her versatility. Force’s ability to balance steamy intimacy with authentic character arcs has earned her a loyal fanbase, with readers praising her for crafting heroes who openly chase love and heroines who overcome personal struggles.
Why Marie Force Matters
Marie Force’s impact on contemporary romance is undeniable. Her self-publishing success with the Gansett Island series broke barriers, proving indie authors could rival traditional publishing giants. With over 30 New York Times bestseller appearances, she’s inspired countless writers to take creative control. Her stories resonate globally, translated into over a dozen languages, offering readers escapist yet relatable tales of love and community.
Force’s connection to Rhode Island, especially Block Island, infuses her work with authentic charm, making Gansett a place fans long to visit. Her persistence—writing through rejections and building a career from scratch—mirrors the determination of her characters, inspiring readers and aspiring authors alike. Force’s legacy is one of passion, proving romance novels can be both wildly entertaining and deeply meaningful.
- Born: Newport, Rhode Island
- Key Works: Maid for Love, Fatal Affair, Virtuous
- Awards: New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestseller
- Fun Fact: Force’s Gansett Island is a registered trademark!
Ready to fall in love? Snag Maid for Love and dive into Marie Force’s heartwarming, steamy world of Gansett Island romance!