Weekly Book Recs 13-2025: Small Town Charm
- Apollo Imperium
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Hey, loves! This week we’re taking a cozy trip to small-town life, where everyone knows your name and big hearts shine. From charming romances to emotional tales of family and belonging, these six books will wrap you up in all the warm, fuzzy feels. So, grab your favorite drink, find a comfy spot, and let’s dive into stories that prove the best things come from the smallest places. 🌻📚
1. The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
Rating: 4.6/5
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Bookish Love
Vibes: Found Family, Small-Town Quirks, Bookish Bliss
Main Characters: Sara, Amy, the town of Broken Wheel
What It’s About:Swedish book lover Sara travels to the tiny town of Broken Wheel, Iowa, to meet her pen pal Amy, only to find herself embraced by the quirky locals—and inspired to open a bookstore that changes everything.
Review:This book is the ultimate love letter to books and community. Sara’s passion for literature and the way the town rallies around her is so heartwarming. It’s cozy, funny, and filled with charm, making it a must-read for anyone who dreams of a life where books and friendships collide.
2. Virgin River by Robyn Carr
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Romance, Women’s Fiction
Vibes: Healing Romance, Small-Town Drama, Fresh Starts
Main Characters: Melinda Monroe, Jack Sheridan
What It’s About:Mel moves to the remote town of Virgin River for a fresh start, only to find herself falling for the town’s rugged bartender, Jack, while navigating her own emotional healing.
Review:This book is like a Hallmark movie in the best way. Virgin River feels so real, and the love story between Mel and Jack is sweet and heartfelt. With its mix of romance, drama, and healing, it’s the perfect pick for when you need an uplifting, feel-good read.
3. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Rating: 4.8/5
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Vibes: Grumpy Sunshine, Found Family, Uplifting Feels
Main Characters: Ove, his quirky neighbors
What It’s About:Ove, a curmudgeonly man with strict routines, finds his solitary life turned upside down when a new family moves in next door and shows him the beauty of connection.
Review:This book will make you laugh, cry, and hug it close when you’re done. Ove’s transformation is so touching, and the way the community rallies around him is pure magic. If you love stories about unlikely friendships and learning to love life again, this one will steal your heart.
4. The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
Rating: 4.4/5
Genre: Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction
Vibes: Small-Town Secrets, Friendship Goals, Touch of Magic
Main Characters: Willa Jackson, Paxton Osgood
What It’s About:In Walls of Water, North Carolina, two women uncover buried secrets tied to their families and the town’s past, all while finding unexpected friendships and love.
Review:This book is a mix of charm and mystery with just the right touch of magic. Willa and Paxton’s friendship is heartwarming, and the small-town setting feels so vibrant and alive. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good story with a hint of enchantment, this one’s a delight.
5. The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan
Rating: 4.7/5
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Bookish Fiction
Vibes: New Beginnings, Cozy Vibes, Book Love
Main Characters: Nina Redmond, her traveling bookshop
What It’s About:Nina, a former librarian, transforms a van into a mobile bookshop and takes her love of stories to the Scottish countryside, where she finds new connections, love, and purpose.
Review:This book is the definition of cozy! Nina’s journey to find herself—and bring books to a small-town community—is so inspiring. The Scottish countryside adds the perfect backdrop, and the romance is super sweet. A must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of books.
6. Small Town Big Magic by Hazel Beck (Indie Pick)
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Vibes: Witchy Vibes, Small-Town Chaos, Found Family
Main Characters: Emerson Wilde, her magical squad
What It’s About:Emerson, a bookstore owner in a charming small town, discovers she’s a witch when her community is threatened, and she must team up with her friends to save it.
Review:This indie gem is so much fun! The small-town setting, magical shenanigans, and strong friendships make it impossible to put down. Emerson is a relatable and fierce heroine, and the romance adds just the right amount of sweetness. If you’re into small-town charm with a magical twist, this one’s for you.
Which small-town story is calling your name this week? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to tag me in your #SmallTownReads posts @apolloimperium! 🌻📚
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