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Here's the Right Way to Read Virgin River Books (For the Few Who Care)

Here's the Right Way to Read Virgin River Books (For the Few Who Care)
Image credit: Netflix

Ready for more of that unique Virgin River vibe?

With only a few weeks left until Virgin River Season 5 Part 1 premieres on Netflix on 7 September, anticipation among fans is building. If all the waiting and speculation about what will happen in the upcoming episodes are beginning to weigh on you, we have a perfect distraction: read into the books!

That's right, Virgin River is based on a romantic series by Robyn Carr, which comprises—wait for it—21 books. That's a vast trove of not-yet-adapted Virgin River tales. But if you're a fan of Mel and Jack, temper your expectations. The unique aspect of Carr's series is that each novel focuses on a fresh romantic story centred on the residents and visitors of our beloved Northern California town.

Our favourites, Mel Monroe and Jack Sheridan, take centre stage in Book 1, but they transition to supporting roles afterwards. However, you'll still encounter them periodically throughout the series. But don't go jumping to the conclusion that the subsequent novels suffer from shifting the focus to other characters. Here's a little secret: for many readers, the first novel isn't their top pick.

While you'll be introduced to some fresh faces as you delve into the books, many familiar Virgin River residents will pop up. It's intriguing to discover characters you recognise from the Netflix adaptation taking lead roles. For instance, Book 2 of Carr's series centres on John 'Preacher' Middleton and Paige, whom show fans are well acquainted with. Book 3, on the other hand, revolves around Brie Sheridan.

Overall, readers often find Carr's series as engaging, entertaining, and binge-worthy as its Netflix counterpart. Those cosy, small-town, romantic vibes are palpable throughout.

In any case, you'll have to judge for yourself, won't you? Here's the comprehensive list of all the Virgin River novels so that you can get started right away:

  1. Virgin River
  2. Shelter Mountain
  3. Whispering Rock
  4. A Virgin River Christmas
  5. Second Chance Pass
  6. Temptation Ridge
  7. Paradise Valley
  8. Under the Christmas Tree
  9. Forbidden Falls
  10. Angel's Peak
  11. Moonlight Road
  12. Midnight Confessions
  13. Promise Canyon
  14. Wild Man Creek
  15. Harvest Moon
  16. Bring Me Home for Christmas
  17. Hidden Summit
  18. Redwood Bend
  19. Sunrise Point
  20. My Kind of Christmas
  21. Return to Virgin River