Since the 2007 debut of Virgin River, Robyn Carr’s beloved small-town romance series has captured readers’ hearts by transporting them to the tranquil backdrop of a California mountain town for uplifting love stories and warm community spirit. Centering nurse practitioner Melinda Monroe as she starts over in rural Virgin River, the books follow interconnected couples supporting each other through hardships and finding meaning in relationships old and new.
Spanning over 20 main installments and numerous spinoffs, Virgin River charms with its focus on resilient characters rebuilding lives damaged by grief, trauma, and loss. Though romances take center stage, Carr crafts a charming supporting cast of close-knit locals. For readers seeking heartfelt second-chance romances wrapped up in cozy small-town wholesomeness, a stay in Virgin River promises emotional respite and joy.
Virgin River Books in Order
- Virgin River (2007)
- Shelter Mountain (2007)
- Whispering Rock (2007)
- A Virgin River Christmas (2008)
- Second Chance Pass (2009)
- Temptation Ridge (2009)
- Paradise Valley (2009)
- Under the Christmas Tree (2009)
- That Holiday Feeling (2009)
- Forbidden Falls (2010)
- Angel’s Peak (2010)
- Moonlight Road (2010)
- Sheltering Hearts (2010)
- Midnight Confessions (2010)
- Midnight Kiss (2010)
- Promise Canyon (2011)
- Wild Man Creek (2011)
- Harvest Moon (2011)
- Bring Me Home for Christmas (2011)
- Hidden Summit (2012)
- Redwood Bend (2012)
- Sunrise Point (2012)
- My Kind of Christmas (2012)
- Return to Virgin River (2020)
Similar Authors
- “The Beach House” by Mary Alice Monroe – A heartwarming tale of love, family, and second chances set in a coastal town. See Mary Alice Monroe’s Books in Order.
- “The Inn at Rose Harbor” by Debbie Macomber – A charming story of healing and new beginnings as three strangers find solace and friendship at a cozy inn. See Debbie Macomber Rose Harbor Series in Order.
- “The Summer That Made Us” by Robyn Carr – A poignant exploration of family dynamics and forgiveness as two sisters reunite at their childhood lake house.
See also: Debbie Macomber’s New Beginnings Series in Order.
Most Recommended Books
- Wild Man Creek (4.29 Goodreads score)
- Forbidden Falls (4.22 Goodreads score)
- Temptation Ridge (4.22 Goodreads score)
- Shelter Mountain (4.17 Goodreads score)
- Virgin River (4.02 Goodreads score)
Awards
Robyn Carr received the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
She has also won the RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America.
Upcoming Releases
Virgin River Book Series Summary
Virgin River
In the book "Virgin River" Melinda Monroe, a recently widowed nurse practitioner, is seeking a fresh start in the small town of Virgin River. Drawn to the beauty of the California redwoods and clear rivers, she hopes to heal her heartache and reignite her nursing career. However, her initial excitement fades when she discovers the cabin she was promised is in poor condition, the roads are dangerous, and the local doctor rejects her. Ready to give up and leave, Melinda's plans change when she discovers an abandoned baby on a doorstep and encounters a former marine. As she embraces unexpected circumstances, Melinda realizes that Virgin River has become more than just an escape - it has become her new home.
Shelter Mountain
"Shelter Mountain" is a heartwarming story about love and second chances. When Paige and her young son seek refuge in the small town of Virgin River, Preacher, a marine with a troubled past, feels an instant connection to them. As their bond grows, Paige's ex-husband threatens to ruin their newfound happiness. Preacher must confront his own fears and fight for the love he has found.
Whispering Rock
"Whispering Rock" is a story about Mike and Brie. Mike, a former marine, decides to settle down in the town of Virgin River and becomes its first policeman. He longs for the same commitment and love that his friends have found. Brie, a lawyer who has recently survived a dangerous encounter with a criminal, seeks refuge in Virgin River. She finds solace in Mike, who shares her dedication to protecting others. However, Brie is haunted by her past, and Mike is determined to help her heal and learn to trust again. As they navigate their painful memories, they wonder if Virgin River can provide them with the future they both deserve.
A Virgin River Christmas
"A Virgin River Christmas" is a heartwarming holiday tale. Marcie Sullivan is on a mission to find the man who saved her husband's life and gave them three more years together. She tracks down Ian Buchanan in the small town of Virgin River, where he is haunted by his past and afraid to move forward. Marcie is determined to help Ian overcome his pain and find hope for the future. As the Christmas season brings miracles, Ian may finally be able to let go of his ghosts and open his heart.
Second Chance Pass
"Second Chance Pass" is a story about love and second chances. When Vanessa becomes a widow with a newborn baby, she leans on her late husband's best friend, Paul, for support. As Vanessa begins to heal, she realizes that her feelings for Paul go beyond friendship, but she fears he doesn't feel the same way. Meanwhile, Paul has been secretly in love with Vanessa for years, but he remains loyal to his best friend. Just as Paul is ready to confess his feelings, another woman enters the picture, threatening to change everything. With the help of the caring community of Virgin River, Vanessa and Paul may have a chance at the love they both long for.
Temptation Ridge
"Temptation Ridge" is a story about Shelby, a young woman who is ready to break free from her sheltered life and embrace new experiences. When she visits Virgin River, she unexpectedly meets Luke Riordan, a rugged and experienced Blackhawk pilot. Despite their differences, Shelby and Luke find themselves drawn to each other.
Paradise Valley
"Paradise Valley" is a heartwarming story about Marine corporal Rick Sudder who returns home to Virgin River after his military tour ends abruptly. However, Rick is no longer the carefree boy he once was, as he now believes his future is bleak. Can a young woman's unwavering love and support help mend his broken spirit and shattered heart? Meanwhile, the town of Virgin River faces a new arrival, Dan Brady, who is seeking a fresh start despite his questionable past. Unexpectedly, he finds solace in the arms of a woman who, like him, has always felt like an outcast.
Under the Christmas Tree
As snow blankets the redwood forests, the town comes together to decorate a magnificent Christmas tree in the town square. This year, a delightful surprise awaits the community when a box of adorable puppies is found under the tree. The townspeople enlist the help of local vet Nathaniel Jensen, but it's his blossoming relationship with Annie McCarty that truly captures everyone's attention.
That Holiday Feeling
"That Holiday Feeling" is a collection of short novels set in Virgin River. Written this book features heartwarming stories that capture the holiday spirit. In one story, a single dad finds love and happiness when he decides to get married under the mistletoe. Another tale follows bachelor Trace Franklin as he navigates his way towards becoming a groom with the help of Savannah Holiday's aunt. Lastly, the townspeople of Virgin River are delighted when they discover a box of adorable puppies under the Christmas tree, leading to a blossoming romance between the local vet and Annie McCarty.
Forbidden Falls
Forbidden Falls is a story about love finding you when you least expect it. When Noah Kincaid buys an abandoned church in Virgin River, he enlists the help of an unlikely candidate, Ellie Baldwin. Despite their differences, they discover they have more in common than they thought.
Angel’s Peak
"Angel's Peak" is a story about Franci Duncan and Sean Riordan, who faced a difficult decision four years ago. Franci wanted marriage and a family, but Sean did not. They went their separate ways, but now Sean has changed and wants to give their relationship another chance. However, Franci has a secret - a beautiful little girl who shares Sean's eyes. When Sean discovers the truth, he is both stunned and angry. The whole town of Virgin River gets involved, and rebuilding trust seems impossible. But if they can overcome their past, it could be the start of a new beginning for this unexpected family.
Moonlight Road
Erin Foley is in need of a fresh start and some peace and quiet, so she retreats to a cabin in Virgin River. However, her solitude is interrupted by Aiden Riordan, a rugged mountain man who is actually a doctor taking a break from the navy. Despite their differences, Erin is inexplicably drawn to Aiden. Will their time in Virgin River bring them the love they've been missing?
Sheltering Hearts
Sheltering Hearts is an eBook that celebrates the accomplishments of dedicated women who have made a positive impact on the world. Inspired by the lives and work of Harlequin More Than Words award recipients, authors have written short stories to honor these women.
Midnight Confessions
In the book "Midnight Confessions" the small town of Virgin River is preparing for their New Year's Eve party at Jack's Bar. Drew Foley and Sunny Archer, both dealing with heartbreak, find themselves drawn to each other amidst the festivities.
Midnight Kiss
"Midnight Kiss" is a book about three individuals who make New Year's resolutions that lead them to unexpected love and happiness. At a New Year's Eve party, two lonely people find solace in each other's company and discover that taking a risk on love might be the best decision they ever made. In another story, a tough lawyer with a penchant for bad boys meets a kind-hearted man who challenges her work-life balance and ignites a passionate connection. Lastly, two federal specialists find themselves entangled in a messy bank takeover during the holidays, and a forbidden kiss complicates their professional relationship.
Promise Canyon
"Promise Canyon" is a story about Clay Tahoma, who starts a new chapter in his life as a veterinary assistant in the beautiful community of Virgin River. Despite being welcomed by everyone in town, Lilly Yazhi is skeptical of Clay's charm, believing it to be a facade to attract wealthy women. However, as their paths continue to cross, Lilly finds herself unable to resist her growing attraction to Clay. Can Clay prove to Lilly that he is not the playboy she believes him to be and discover something unexpected in Virgin River?
Wild Man Creek
Wild Man Creek is a heartwarming story about two individuals who are trying to find peace and simplicity in their lives. Colin Riordan, recovering from a helicopter crash, seeks solace through art. Jillian Matlock, a PR agent recovering from a painful affair, rents a house in Virgin River to reevaluate her life. When Jillian discovers Colin painting in her yard, they instantly connect. As they navigate their difficult decisions, they realize that sometimes love is the easiest choice to make.
Harvest Moon
In "Harvest Moon" Kelly Matlock, a tired and disillusioned chef, takes a break from her hectic life in San Francisco and stays with her sister in the peaceful town of Virgin River. While there, she finds solace in working in her sister's garden and cooking with fresh vegetables. Kelly's motivation starts to return when she meets Lief Holbrook, a rugged and charming widower. However, Lief's rebellious stepdaughter, Courtney, causes some complications. Despite the challenges, Kelly finds herself falling for Lief and navigating the ups and downs of love.
Bring Me Home for Christmas
In "Bring Me Home for Christmas" Becca is determined to move on from her broken heart caused by Denny's departure three years ago. She takes matters into her own hands and travels to Virgin River, Denny's hometown, as an uninvited guest on her brother's weekend getaway. However, an accident leaves Becca stranded in Virgin River with Denny. As they spend time together, Becca realizes that Denny has transformed into a strong and confident man. With the magic of Christmas in the air, Becca learns that some wishes are worth holding onto.
Hidden Summit
Hidden Summit is a story about finding a home in the most unexpected of places. When Connor Danson becomes a witness to a violent crime, he is forced to leave Sacramento and lay low until the trial is over. He ends up in the small mountain town of Virgin River, carrying emotional baggage and a guarded heart. Leslie Petruso, on the other hand, needs to escape her hometown and find anonymity after her ex-husband's happy new life announcement. Despite their reluctance to start a new relationship, Connor and Leslie discover they have a lot in common and can't deny the connection between them. In Virgin River, where life and love are impossible to hide from, they both find solace and the possibility of a fresh start.
Redwood Bend
"Redwood Bend" is a story about Dylan Childress, a former actor who left the glitz and glamour of L.A. for a quieter life in Montana. As his aviation business slows down, Dylan contemplates returning to Hollywood. However, during a weekend getaway with friends, he comes across Katie Malone, a single mother stranded with her twin boys. The instant attraction between Dylan and Katie is undeniable, but both are hesitant to pursue a long-term relationship.
Sunrise Point
"Sunrise Point" is a story about love finding its way. Tom Cavanaugh, a former marine, returns home with the intention of taking over his family's apple orchard and settling down. He has a clear idea of the kind of woman he wants to marry - someone sweet, decent, and maybe a little naive. However, he finds himself drawn to Nora Crane, a strong and striking single mother who has faced her fair share of challenges. As Nora helps with the harvest at the Cavanaughs' orchard, her thoughts keep drifting back to Tom. Both Nora and Tom have their own beliefs about what family means, but they are about to discover that they may have been wrong all along.
My Kind of Christmas
"My Kind of Christmas" is a holiday romance. Patrick Riordan, a navy pilot, is known for his gentle nature. However, his world is turned upside down when he meets Angie LeCroix, a beautiful woman who is looking for a relaxing Christmas away from her overbearing mother. Despite their initial desire for solitude, Patrick and Angie find themselves drawn to each other. As they navigate their growing feelings, they must also contend with the meddling of their families.
Return to Virgin River
In "Return to Virgin River" Kaylee Sloan, a successful author, is struggling with grief after her mother's death. In need of a distraction and to meet her looming deadline, Kaylee rents a cabin in Virgin River during Christmas. However, her plans are disrupted when she arrives at a building that has just burned down. Seeking solace, she goes to Jack's Bar where she is surprised to find a warm and welcoming community. As Kaylee becomes more involved in the town and forms a connection with local artist and dog trainer Landry Moore, she starts to see her life in a new light. With Christmas approaching, Kaylee's feelings of dread transform into wonder, as she realizes that Virgin River may be the perfect place to heal her broken heart.
