How to Read the Valentine Valley Series
The Valentine Valley series, written by USA Today bestselling author Emma Cane (the contemporary romance pen name of historical romance author Gayle Callen), is set in a fictional, idyllic town in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley. Known for its close-knit community, stunning mountain backdrops, and meddling townsfolk who love playing matchmaker, this series is best enjoyed in order. Reading the books chronologically allows you to watch the town evolve and follow the recurring characters, particularly the sprawling Thalberg family, as they find their happily-ever-afters.
The series consists of six main novels and several companion novellas, many of which have been compiled in the Return to Valentine Valley collection. While each romance is a standalone story featuring a different couple, reading them in order of release ensures you do not encounter spoilers regarding previous couples' marriages, babies, and business successes.
Recommended Reading Order
We recommend following the combined publication and chronological order to experience the town's seasonal events and character growth naturally:
- A Town Called Valentine (Book 1, 2012) – The story that started it all, featuring Emily Murphy and Nate Thalberg.
- True Love at Silver Creek Ranch (Book 2, 2012) – Follows Brooke Thalberg and former soldier Adam Desantis.
- A Wedding in Valentine (Novella #1, 2013) – A snowy romance featuring Chris and Heather, who must face each other after a one-night stand when they end up in the same wedding party.
- The Cowboy of Valentine Valley (Book 3, 2013) – Focuses on rancher Josh Thalberg and Whitney Winslow, a former Hollywood starlet looking for peace.
- A Promise at Bluebell Hill (Book 4, 2014) – Follows city girl Karen Millerson and local contractor/firefighter Travis Vance.
- When the Rancher Came to Town (Novella #2, 2014) – Features Amanda, a woman hiding from her past, and ex-rodeo star Mason.
- Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley (Book 5, 2014) – A festive holiday romance featuring lawyer Kate Fenelli and her ex-husband Tony De Luca.
- Ever After at Sweetheart Ranch (Book 6, 2015) – The final full-length novel, centering on Lyndsay Vance and investigator Hunter Kincaid.
- Secrets in Valentine Valley (Novella #3, 2016) – A high-stakes romance involving Daniel and his ex-girlfriend Kristin, who returns to town under Witness Protection.
- A Second Chance in Valentine Valley (Novella #4, 2022) – Rebuilt around widow Steph Brissette and the town's new doctor, Jeremy.
What to Know Before You Start
Emma Cane's writing style is often compared to romance powerhouses like Robyn Carr and Lori Wilde. She expertly balances small-town coziness with steamy emotional depth. The town of Valentine itself acts as a main character, featuring recurring hubs like the Silver Creek Ranch, the local bakery, and various festive celebrations that return in almost every book. The core of the series revolves around themes of healing, overcoming past trauma, and finding a place to belong. If you love stories about protective cowboys, independent women, and meddlesome but well-meaning neighbors, this is the perfect cozy escape.
The Return to Valentine Valley Novellas
If you prefer to read the shorter stories together, Emma Cane has collected her four digital novellas into a single print and digital compilation titled Return to Valentine Valley. This collection includes A Wedding in Valentine, When the Rancher Came to Town, Secrets in Valentine Valley, and A Second Chance in Valentine Valley. Reading these novellas provides extra depth to the minor characters in town, but they can also be read as a standalone set if you want a quicker visit to the Rocky Mountains.