If you love country music, these books are a perfect match. This mix of fiction and non-fiction dives into the world of country, featuring biographies of your favorite artists, the rich history of the genre, and romantic tales with a country twist. Whether you’re looking for real-life stories of the legends who shaped country music or sweet romances set in small towns and wide-open landscapes, these books capture the heart and soul of country living. From the wholesome to the wild, these reads are sure to feed your country soul after the Country Music Awards.

Run, Rose, Run by Dolly Parton, James Patterson

A new singer named AnnieLee Keyes arrives in Nashville, brimming with talent, beauty, and ambition, but haunted by a dangerous past. When country star Ruthanna Ryder, who’s retired but still writes music in secret, hears AnnieLee perform, she decides to help her. However, this mentorship may also expose AnnieLee’s hidden secrets, putting her life and her dreams of stardom at risk.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage

Clementine “Emmy” Ryder feels like she’s accomplished everything she needs to after leaving her small town of Meadowlark, Wyoming, going to college, and making a career out of riding horses. But when an accident takes it all away from her, she returns home, needing an escape. Upon her return, she walks into the bar of notorious bad-boy and bachelor Luke Brooks, who finally sees her as more than just his best friend’s little sister. Does Emmy have too much on her plate, or will the two create a spark that changes their lives forever?

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

A Little Bit Country by Brian D. Kennedy

In this heartfelt and funny YA contemporary romance inspired by Dollywood, debut author Brian D. Kennedy tells the story of two boys who fall in love at a country music-themed amusement park. Seventeen-year-old Emmett dreams of being country music’s biggest gay superstar, while Luke, who hates country music due to his family’s painful past, takes a job at the park out of necessity. As sparks fly between them, a long-buried secret threatens to derail their budding romance, leaving them to face whether their love will be another sad country song or something more.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Colton Gentry’s Third Act by Jeff Zentner

Recommended by Emily Henry as a “story of love, healing, and second chances,” this novel follows Colton Gentry, a struggling country musician who moves back to his rural Kentucky hometown after his career and marriage implode. Still reeling from the trauma of losing his best friend to a mass shooting, Colton unexpectedly reconnects with his high school sweetheart, Luann, who has also reinvented herself. Through alternating timelines, Colton Gentry’s Third Act explores grief, redemption, and the hope of second chances.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 The Farewell Tour by Stephanie Clifford

Set against a richly detailed historical backdrop, The Farewell Tour follows country music star Lillian Waters on her final tour in 1980 as she confronts the choices that shaped her life. Spanning key eras—The Depression, World War II, and the rise of Nashville—the novel captures her struggles in a male-dominated industry. With evocative settings and a powerful exploration of ambition, creativity, and sacrifice, it tells the story of a woman seeking redemption.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

All I Want for Christmas by Maggie Knox

Two rival reality-star country singers, Sadie and Max, must fake a relationship to stay in the competition on “Starmaker”. Their onstage chemistry sends fans into a frenzy, and the network insists they keep up the act offstage. With their big Nashville break on the line, will their phony romance turn real by the holiday finale?

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Forever and Ever Amen by Randy Travis

Forever and Ever, Amen tells the personal story of country music icon Randy Travis, chronicling his rise from a working-class background to stardom with over 25 million albums sold. Despite his success, Randy’s life took a dark turn in 2009 with personal struggles, financial ruin, and public scandals, followed by a life-threatening stroke. The memoir captures his miraculous recovery and redemption, highlighted by his emotional return to the stage to sing “Amazing Grace” during his 2016 Country Music Hall of Fame induction.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Her Country: How the Women of Country Music Became the Success They Were Never Supposed to Be by Marissa R. Moss

Her Country chronicles how women like Maren Morris, Mickey Guyton, and Kacey Musgraves have transformed country music over the past two decades, defying an industry dominated by men. Despite limited radio play, they achieved success with crossover hits, Grammy wins, and by pushing for inclusivity. Written by Marissa R. Moss, the book reveals how these trailblazers broke the rules, reshaped the genre, and changed country music for the better.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

My Black Country by Alice Randall

In My Black Country, Alice Randall, the first Black woman to co-write a number-one country hit, reflects on her connection to country music and its Black pioneers like DeFord Bailey and Charley Pride. The book celebrates the contributions of Black artists to the genre and explores their resilience, joy, and influence on American culture. As country music experiences a renaissance with new Black artists, Randall’s work offers a fresh perspective for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Me & Patsy Kickin’ Up Dust by Loretta Lynn

Me & Patsy Kickin’ Up Dust tells the untold story of the deep friendship between country music icons Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. Loretta shares their bond, celebrating their rebellious spirit and defiance against societal norms, up until Patsy’s tragic death. Set in 1960s Nashville, this memoir offers a heartfelt look at their influence on country music and their lasting legacy.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics by Dolly Parton and Robert K. Oermann

Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics is a rich exploration of Dolly Parton’s extraordinary career, told in her own words and through 175 of her most iconic songs. Featuring personal stories, candid insights, and never-before-seen photos, it offers readers a deep dive into her songwriting and the memories behind her music. This book is a must-have for fans of Dolly Parton and lovers of music history, celebrating over 60 years of her contributions to both country music and pop culture.

Buy the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

She Watches Bonus

If you’re looking for some country music vibes, but need a quick watch over a book, check out Torn Hearts. Written by author of Stone Cold Fox and screenwriter Rachel Koller Croft this film follows two country music stars on the rise who seek the mentorship and collaboration with a country music legend. But things go from a dream come true to a nightmare in a movie described as Misery meets country music.