I like to consider myself a pretty eclectic reader. I’m just as likely to pick up a science-y nonfiction book as I am a steamy novel. I don’t discriminate by genre—if it looks good, I will read it. There are some key words that turn me off immediately (like thriller or psychological) and some words that I will rush to pick up. Mention “small town” and “romance” in the description and I am hooked. There’s something cozy about a small town where everyone knows everyone, and someone is always falling in love. I often find myself wanting to pack up everything and move where everybody knows my name. *Extra points if you can identify that 80s reference.* As a bonus, the men are usually swoon-worthy and give me hope that nice guys do still exist, even if they are fictional. To get you started, I have put together a list of 4 small-town romance series that will keep you company for a while:
Virgin River, by Robyn Carr.
Publisher: MIRA
The Virgin River series was my first foray into the world of small-town romance novels and it set the bar high. Set in the fictional town of Virgin River, California, VR follows Mel Monroe, a midwife who moves from L.A. after losing her husband. The 21 book series follows Mel and many other residents as they navigate small-town life. I first read this series several years ago and have gone back to it many times. Netflix turned it into a tv series this year. The Netflix series is very different from the books. You can read and watch without spoiling anything.
Aspen Cove, by Kelly Collins.
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
The Aspen Cove series starts with One Hundred Reasons, and introduces us to Sage, a nurse who inherits a bed and breakfast in Aspen Cove, Colorado. When she goes there, she finds a small town of people who lean on each other and are always willing to lend a hand. There are 15 books in this series and counting, with book 16 being released January 7, 2021. Each book focuses on a new couple, with previous characters making appearances. The entire series is available for free with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.
The Winston Brothers, by Penny Reid.
Publisher: Cipher-Naught
Set in Green Valley, Tennessee, the Winston Brothers series begins with Truth or Beard, where you first meet the bearded, quirky, and loveable Winston brothers—Duane, Roscoe, Cletus, Billy, Jethro, and Beau, and their only sister, Ashley. Now 7 books strong, plus a book of deleted scenes, and the Winston Family Paper Dolls, the series is hailed as “smart romance” by the author. You will laugh out loud and wish your family was as fun as the Winstons.
Hope’s Crossing, by RaeAnne Thayne.
Publisher: HQN Books
Single mom Claire Bradford, and resident of Hope’s Crossing, Colorado, is injured in an accident and is forced to lean on others to help out. Enter Riley McKnight, the handsome new chief of police. Sparks fly, love blooms, and there’s a happily ever after around every corner in this 7 book series.
What are your favorite small-town romance series? Drop me a line in the comments!
Meg
Oh, “Virgin River” keeps coming up on my Netflix recommendations, I didn’t realize it was a book too!