Best Small Town & Rural Fiction Books of 2025

Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score is a heartwarming small town romance that will leave readers feeling good. The story follows Knox, a solitary barber who helps a runaway bride, Naomi, who is stranded in Knockemout, Virginia with an unexpected niece to take care of. Naomi's presence disrupts Knox's peaceful life, but he can't help but assist her as she navigates her new life in the town. As the danger unfolds, Knox and Naomi's relationship deepens, leading to a satisfying conclusion. Score's writing is engaging, and the characters are well-developed, making it a must-read for fans of small-town romance.

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver is a coming-of-age novel that takes place in the mountains of southern Appalachia. The story follows a boy born to a single mother, who faces a range of modern perils such as foster care, child labor, addiction, and crushing losses. Through it all, he reckons with his own invisibility in a popular culture that has abandoned rural people in favor of cities. Kingsolver's book is a unique take on a literary classic, transposing a Victorian epic novel to the contemporary American South. Overall, Demon Copperhead is a compelling and heart-wrenching read that speaks for a new generation of lost boys.

Things We Hide from the Light (Knockemout Series, 2) by Lucy Score is a heartwarming and funny love story. The novel follows Nash Morgan, the good Morgan brother, as he recovers from being shot, and his neighbor Lina, who has secrets of her own. The connection between them is electric, but Lina's past and fear of commitment threaten their relationship. Score's signature charm shines through in this small-town romance, as she weaves together humor and heartfelt moments. Overall, Things We Hide from the Light is a delightful read that fans of the genre won't want to miss.

Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan is a heart-wrenching love story that tells the tale of two troubled souls who find hope, happiness, and love in each other. The protagonist tries to forget her past and move on, but everything changes when she meets Archer Hale, a man who communicates with no one. Despite the secrets and betrayals that surround them, their bond grows stronger. Mia Sheridan has crafted a captivating romance novel that will leave readers longing for more. Archer's Voice is a must-read for fans of contemporary women's fiction books.

Things We Left Behind is the third book in the Knockemout series, focusing on the beloved character Lucian. Written by New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Lucy Score, the book takes readers on a journey through small-town and rural settings. Score's writing is captivating, with heartbreaker heroes and kick-ass heroines that keep readers engaged. The author's personal touch shines through in her writing, and her love for writing is evident. Overall, Things We Left Behind is a must-read for fans of the series and those who enjoy small-town and rural fiction books.

You Shouldn't Have Come Here is a new thriller from Jeneva Rose that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Grace Evans, an overworked New Yorker, books an Airbnb on a Wyoming ranch for a total escape from her busy life. At first, she's pleased to find the owner, Calvin Wells, is a handsome man eager to show her his easygoing way of life. But things start to go wrong when she discovers a missing woman and a feeling that something isn't right with the ranch. As the two bond and fall for one another, their playful romance turns into a complicated web of lies. The book is wicked, twisty, thrilling fun from the first page to last.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck is a classic tale set during the Great Depression, exploring the unlikely friendship between George and Lennie. George, a small and quick man, looks after Lennie, a giant with the mind of a child, as they work as laborers in California's vegetable fields. Their dream of owning land and a shack seems to be within reach when they land jobs on a ranch, but tragedy strikes. Steinbeck's powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the human condition during a difficult time in American history.

The Only Survivors: A Novel by Megan Miranda is a gripping psychological thriller about a group of high school seniors who reunite to commemorate a tragic accident that claimed the lives of their classmates and teachers. However, their annual gathering takes a sinister turn when one of the survivors mysteriously disappears, causing fear and suspicion among the group. Miranda's masterful storytelling, with its intricate plot, shifting timelines, and unforgettable characters, keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. This is a must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers.

The Trackers is a novel by Charles Frazier that portrays the lives of rural Americans during the Great Depression era. The story follows painter Val Welch, who travels to Dawes, Wyoming, to create a mural for the new Post Office. Val is hosted by a wealthy couple, John Long and his wife Eve, who have a mysterious past. When Eve flees with a valuable painting, Val is recruited by Long to track her down, which leads him on a journey across the country. Frazier's writing is period-authentic and filled with spectacular word-images that transport readers to a different time. The Trackers is a powerful and timeless classic that showcases Frazier's exceptional storytelling skills.

The Quarry Girls is a spine-tingling thriller novel that takes readers on a journey through small-town secrets and the dark side of human nature. Jess Lourey has once again delivered a masterful blend of true crime and evocative characters that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows two best friends who witness something they can't forget, and when their friend disappears, they fear they are next. Lourey's writing is mesmerizing and will leave readers guessing until the very end. This book is a must-read for fans of true crime and suspenseful thrillers.