Valentine Series by Curtiss Ann Matlock
The Valentine series by Curtiss Ann Matlock is a heartwarming collection of stories set in the small town of Valentine, Oklahoma. These books explore themes of love, family, resilience, and the charm of small-town life. Each book introduces relatable characters and their journeys through life’s challenges and joys.
Publication Order of Valentine Books
- Love in a Small Town (1997)
- Lost Highways (1999)
- Driving Lessons (2000)
- Cold Tea on a Hot Day (2001)
- At the Corner of Love and Heartache (2002)
- Recipes for Easy Living (2003)
- Sweet Dreams at the Goodnight Motel (2004)
- Chin Up, Honey (2009)
- Little Town, Great Big Life (2010)
- Christmas Comes to Valentine (2016)
1. Love in a Small Town (1997)
Molly Hayes is at a crossroads in her marriage. After years of taking each other for granted, she and her husband, Tommy, must decide if their love is worth saving. Set in the charming town of Valentine, this story is about rediscovering love, forgiveness, and the strength of family bonds.
2. Lost Highways (1999)
Rainey Valentine, twice divorced and full of hope, inherits a truck, a horse, and a stash of Mary Kay cosmetics from her late mother. She sets off on a journey of self-discovery, picking up strays—both human and animal – along the way. Her travels lead her back to Valentine, where she finds that home is where the heart truly belongs.
3. Driving Lessons (2000)
Charlene, a mother of three, is left to rebuild her life after her husband walks out. With the help of her family and the charming Mason McCoy, Charlene learns to navigate life’s challenges and discovers the possibility of love again.
4. Cold Tea on a Hot Day (2001)
Marilee James juggles raising her special-needs son, caring for her niece, and running the local newspaper. When Tate Holloway arrives to take over the paper, he brings a spark of romance into Marilee’s busy life. This is a story of second chances and finding love in unexpected places.
5. At the Corner of Love and Heartache (2002)
Marilee James is engaged to Tate Holloway, but her ex-husband’s return complicates her life. With her family and faith, Marilee navigates the challenges of love, trust, and starting over.
6. Recipes for Easy Living (2003)
This book weaves together the lives of Valentine’s residents, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and the recipes that bring them together. It’s a heartwarming tale of community and the power of shared traditions.
7. Sweet Dreams at the Goodnight Motel (2004)
Claire, newly divorced, finds herself in Valentine, Oklahoma, where she rediscovers joy and purpose. Just as she begins to settle into her new life, her ex-husband arrives, threatening to disrupt her newfound peace.
8. Chin Up, Honey (2009)
Emma Berry’s son is getting married, and she’s determined to make everything perfect. This story explores the complexities of long-term relationships, family dynamics, and the enduring power of love.
9. Little Town, Great Big Life (2010)
Valentine celebrates its centennial, and the town comes together for a grand celebration. Belinda Blaine, facing an unexpected pregnancy, learns that miracles and support can come from the most unexpected places.
10. Christmas Comes to Valentine (2016)
Set during the magical Christmas season, this story follows Corrine, a young girl living a happy life with her aunt Marilee and Papa Tate. As the town of Valentine prepares for the holidays with its Santa mailbox and secret presents, Corrine’s estranged mother unexpectedly returns, threatening to disrupt the peace. But in Valentine, a town of miracles, anything is possible. This book is a heartwarming tale of family, forgiveness, and the magic of Christmas.
Why You’ll Love the Valentine Series
- Relatable Characters: The residents of Valentine are ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
- Small-Town Charm: The series captures the warmth and quirks of small-town life.
- Themes of Resilience: Each book highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of challenges.
- Heartwarming Stories: These tales are filled with love, hope, and the importance of community.
- Southern Hospitality: The series is infused with the charm and traditions of the South.
Books Similar to Valentine Series
If you enjoyed the Valentine series, you might also like:
- Mitford Series by Jan Karon
- Big Stone Gap Series by Adriana Trigiani
- Blessings Series by Beverly Jenkins
- Cedar Cove Series by Debbie Macomber
- Harmony Series by Philip Gulley