Escape to the charming Rocky Mountain town of Dare Valley, where love, community, and second chances weave a spellbinding tapestry! The Dare Valley series by Ava Miles, a collection of 12 novels and 1 novella, invites readers into a world of heartwarming contemporary romance. Centered on the influential Hale family, this USA Today bestselling series has captured over a million readers with its cozy small-town vibes and unforgettable characters.
From the Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper to the gourmet coffee shop Don’t Soy with Me, Dare Valley is a place where dreams dare to flourish. Whether you’re a romance aficionado or new to the genre, this series promises a delightful journey through love’s many facets. Let’s explore how Dare Valley came to life, its captivating stories, and why it continues to enchant readers worldwide.
How Dare Valley Began
Ava Miles, an international bestselling author with a flair for storytelling, launched the Dare Valley series in 2013 with Nora Roberts Land. Inspired by her sister’s ex-husband, who blamed their divorce on an obsession with Nora Roberts’ novels, Miles crafted a series that celebrates the magic of romance. With Nora Roberts’ blessing, she set her stories in a fictional Colorado town, blending her love for small-town life with her experiences as a chef and conflict expert in war zones. This rich background infuses her tales with authenticity and emotional depth, making Dare Valley a vibrant backdrop for love.
The Heart of Dare Valley
The series kicks off with Nora Roberts Land, where journalist Meredith Hale returns to Dare Valley to prove true love exists after her ex-husband’s betrayal. Her quest to find a romantic hero sparks a whirlwind of intrigue and chemistry with Tanner McBride, blending romance with suspense. In French Roast, Jill Hale and chef Brian McConnell rekindle their childhood love, navigating past heartbreaks to build a new future. The Grand Opening introduces deputy sheriff Peggy McBride, whose guarded heart softens for hotelier Mac Maven amid a mystery at the Grand Mountain Hotel. Finally, The Perfect Ingredient follows Elizabeth Saunders, a woman with a hidden past, as she confronts love and danger with chef Terrance Waters.
Set against the Rocky Mountains, Dare Valley’s charm lies in its strong sense of community and cosmopolitan flair. Themes of second chances, family ties, and personal growth resonate throughout, with each book offering a standalone romance that ties into the Hale family’s legacy. Miles’ witty prose and relatable characters create a binge-worthy saga that balances humor, heart, and a touch of suspense, earning praise from authors like Barbara Freethy.
Why Dare Valley Resonates
With over a million copies sold, the Dare Valley series has left a lasting mark on contemporary romance. Its blend of small-town warmth and universal themes has drawn a global fanbase, with readers praising its optimistic storytelling in literary journals and online reviews. Miles’ ability to craft emotionally rich narratives has cemented her as a beloved voice in romance, inspiring fans to believe in love’s transformative power. The series’ enduring appeal lies in its invitation to dream big, just like the residents of Dare Valley.
- Publication Years: 2013–2018
- Number of Books: 12 novels, 1 novella
- Key Award: #1 National Bestseller for Nora Roberts Land (USA Today)
Ready to fall in love? Grab Nora Roberts Land and step into Dare Valley’s heartwarming world of romance and adventure!