The Rome, Kentucky Series in Order

About the Rome, Kentucky series

Series Premise

Each book follows a different resident (or newcomer) of Rome, Kentucky, as they navigate love, personal growth, and small-town life. The stories often involve returning home after time away, career changes, family drama, or unexpected encounters that spark romance. Common tropes include: > Grumpy-sunshine dynamics > Friends-to-lovers or second chances > Small-town meddling and community support > Light-hearted challenges (e.g., fixing a business, healing from heartbreak, or finding belonging)

Main Characters

The series rotates protagonists (new couple each book), with strong crossovers among the town’s residents:
> Amelia Rose / Rae Rose (When in Rome, Book 1) — Burned-out pop star who escapes to Rome, Kentucky (inspired by Roman Holiday); kind-hearted and goofy under her celebrity facade.
> Noah Walker — Grumpy pie shop owner and Amelia’s reluctant rescuer; rooted in Rome and protective of his town.
> Annie Walker (Practice Makes Perfect, Book 2) — Noah’s sister; sweet, quiet flower shop owner who needs practice dating.
> Will Griffin — Sexy, tattooed security expert temporarily in town; Annie’s “tutor” in romance.
> Madison Walker (Beg, Borrow, or Steal, Book 3) — Another Walker sibling; ambitious chef returning home.
> James Huxley — Local farmer/restaurant owner; Madison’s love interest.
> Sylvie (In Your Dreams, Book 4) — Likely the final sibling or close friend; her story rounds out the family.
> Recurring: The extended Walker family (siblings, parents) and quirky townspeople who meddle, support, and add small-town gossip.

Setting

The fictional small town of Rome, Kentucky — a cozy, Southern small-town community with:
> Family-run businesses (pie shops, flower shops, restaurants).
> Farms, historic homes, town square, and community events (festivals, weddings, holiday gatherings).
> Scenic countryside and close-knit neighborhood feel.
The atmosphere is nostalgic and welcoming — Southern hospitality, nosy neighbors, seasonal beauty, and the comfort of returning home.

Tone & Themes

Warm, uplifting, and romantic — classic Sarah Adams rom-com style with heartfelt emotion, witty banter, gentle humor, and satisfying happily-ever-afters. The tone is sweet and hopeful, focusing on second chances, self-acceptance, and small-town charm rather than heavy drama or explicit darkness. Romance is tender and moderately steamy (sweet to sensual, not overly graphic), with light angst (past heartbreak, family pressure) that resolves positively — comforting, funny, and escapist.

The series is cherished for its cozy Southern small-town charm, emotional warmth, witty banter, and tender romances — ideal for fans of small-town rom-coms like Sarah Adams’ own style, Debbie Macomber, or Katherine Center. It has sweet-to-moderate spice and no major triggers. It’s a rising favorite in the contemporary romance genre with strong BookTok popularity.