Step into the charming world of Cottonbloom, where love bridges divides and second chances spark heartwarming romances! Laura Trentham’s Cottonbloom series, a gem in contemporary romance, whisks readers to a small Louisiana town split by wealth and opportunity. With vivid characters and a cozy Southern setting, these novels weave tales of healing, growth, and the transformative power of love.
From the moment you open the first book, Cottonbloom feels like home—albeit one with a river dividing its upscale Mississippi side from the rough-and-tumble Louisiana side. Trentham’s storytelling captures the magic of small-town life, making every page a delightful escape for romance fans craving heartfelt connections.
How Cottonbloom Began
Laura Trentham, a Tennessee native with a knack for crafting sexy, soulful stories, launched the Cottonbloom series in 2016. A former chemical engineer turned romance author, Trentham drew inspiration from her Southern roots to create a fictional town brimming with authenticity. Her goal? To explore love’s ability to mend broken hearts and unite divided communities. The series, published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks, quickly won over readers with its blend of steamy romance and emotional depth, earning accolades like Amazon’s Best Romance of 2016 for Then He Kissed Me.
The Heart of Cottonbloom
The Cottonbloom series spans nine novels and a novella, each focusing on a unique couple navigating love’s twists and turns. Kiss Me That Way (2016), the first book, introduces Cade Fournette and Monroe Kirby, childhood friends reunited after years apart. Their second-chance romance sets the tone for the series, blending passion with personal growth as they overcome past traumas. Then He Kissed Me (2016) follows Tally Fournette and Nash Hawthorne, best friends whose bond evolves into something deeper, tackling themes of trust and belonging.
Till I Kissed You (2016) brings Sawyer Fournette and Regan Lovell, high school sweethearts, back together in a heated rivalry that reignites their love. Meanwhile, When the Stars Come Out (2018) explores Willa Brown and Jackson Abbott’s journey from coworkers to lovers, highlighting resilience and vulnerability. Trentham’s lush descriptions of Cottonbloom’s humid summers, river walks, and quirky locals create an immersive backdrop. Themes of redemption, community, and breaking social barriers shine through, making each story resonate with readers who adore small-town romance.
The series’ style is both steamy and tender, balancing spicy chemistry with emotional stakes. Trentham’s characters—whether “swamp rats” from Louisiana or affluent Mississippians—face real struggles, from family loss to societal prejudice, making their happy endings all the more satisfying.
Why Cottonbloom Resonates
Cottonbloom’s appeal lies in its universal themes wrapped in a distinctly Southern package. Fans praise Trentham’s ability to craft relatable characters who grow through love, earning the series glowing reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. The series has carved a niche in contemporary romance, offering a refreshing take on second-chance love that feels both timeless and modern. Its focus on healing across divides speaks to readers seeking hope and connection, cementing Cottonbloom’s place as a beloved escape.
The series’ awards, including finalist spots in the National Readers Choice Award and the Maggie contest, underscore its impact. For romance readers, Cottonbloom is a testament to love’s power to transform lives, one kiss at a time.
- Publication Years: 2016–2018
- Number of Books: 9 novels, 1 novella
- Awards: Amazon Best Romance of 2016 (Then He Kissed Me), Stiletto Contest winner (Kiss Me That Way)
Ready to fall in love with Cottonbloom? Grab Kiss Me That Way and dive into a world where romance conquers all!