Reading Order
Dare River
Start with Country Heaven and continue through all 6 books in the listed reading order.
About This Series
Set in the picturesque, close-knit town of Dare River, this six-part series follows individuals navigating profound personal challenges—from escaping abusive marriages to recovering from the trauma of war. Ava Miles steps away from lighthearted romance tropes to delve into deeply emotional narratives that require characters to confront their darkest shadows before finding a "happily ever after."
With interconnected storylines, readers get to follow the evolving lives of the town's residents, specifically the McGuiness family and the tight circles of country music stars that seek refuge in the quiet southern town. Known for its strong emphasis on emotional growth, found family, and the power of hope, the Dare River books build an atmospheric and compelling world starting with "Country Heaven" and concluding with "The Patchwork Quilt of Happiness".
Start Here
Start with Country Heaven
Book 1 by Ava Miles • Published 2014
In the first installment of the Dare River series, Ava Miles explores themes of grief, healing, and redemption through the story of rising country music star Tory Grace. After a devastating loss, Tory retreats to the...
Complete List
Dare River reading order
Ends with The Patchwork Quilt of Happiness
- 1
Book 1:Country Heaven
Ava Miles • 2014
In the first installment of the Dare River series, Ava Miles explores themes of grief, healing, and redemption through the story of rising country music star Tory Grace. After a devastating loss, Tory retreats to the...
- 2
Book 2:The Chocolate Garden
Ava Miles • 2014
The second book in the Dare River series continues the theme of healing and second chances, shifting focus to Tammy Hollins—a single mother rebuilding her life as a landscape designer after escaping a highly abusive m...
- 3
Book 3:Fireflies and Magnolias
Ava Miles • 2015
In "Fireflies and Magnolias", Ava Miles examines the complexities of social justice and personal boundaries through the perspective of Amelia Ann Hollins. Raised under strict Southern expectations, Amelia Ann rebels b...
- 4
Book 4:The Promise of Rainbows
Ava Miles • 2016
The fourth installment of the Dare River series, "The Promise of Rainbows", delves into the psychological aftermath of war and the enduring struggle with survivor's guilt. The narrative follows Jake Lassiter, a decora...
- 5
Book 5:The Fountain of Infinite Wishes
Ava Miles • 2016
"The Fountain of Infinite Wishes" pivots to themes of family estrangement and the pursuit of closure. Shelby McGuiness, a successful accountant, has spent her life compensating for her father's early abandonment. Driv...
- 6
Book 6:The Patchwork Quilt of Happiness
Ava Miles • 2018
Concluding the Dare River series, "The Patchwork Quilt of Happiness" brings the interconnected storylines full circle. The novel centers on Riley Thomson, a single father and comic book artist, who finds unexpected in...
Quick Answers
Dare River FAQ
What is the best order to read the Dare River series?
The recommended reading order is the numbered order shown on this page, starting with Country Heaven.
How many books are in the Dare River series?
There are 6 books currently listed in the Dare River series on GurusReads.
Where should I start with the Dare River series?
New readers should start with Country Heaven, the first book in the reading order.
Is the Dare River series complete?
Based on the publication years we have, the series appears likely complete and spans releases from 2014 to 2018.