IOWA BOOK LIST

This Iowa Book List is full of love stories rooted in comfort, connection, and that warm, small-town feeling. Whether it’s a slow burn on a family farm or a flirty reunion at the state fair, these romances are tender, grounded, and full of heart.

Iowa might fly under the radar, but the stories set here are anything but forgettable. Expect meaningful moments, everyday heroes, and love that grows like a summer cornfield—steady and strong.

Tropes? Oh yes. Best friends-to-lovers during harvest season? Absolutely. A city girl falling for the hometown farm boy? You bet. Fake dating for a county fair contest that spirals into something real? Yes, please.

The setting brings it all together—think big skies, gravel roads, field-side sunsets, and diners where everyone knows your name (and your business). Iowa romances don’t need glitz to shine. They thrive on real feelings, small gestures, and love that just feels right.

So if you’re ready to check Iowa off your U.S. State Reading Challenge, this list has plenty of heartwarming picks. These stories may start simple, but they grow into something unforgettable.