If you’re a fan of Virgin River, then you’re likely counting down the days until the much-anticipated seventh season of the series arrives on Netflix. The show, which combines heartfelt drama with the tranquil yet unpredictable charm of a small-town setting, has garnered a massive following over the years. However, while we wait for the next chapter in Virgin River, there’s a hidden gem that could help tide you over: Sullivan’s Crossing. This new series, also available on Netflix, promises a similar mix of emotional depth, scenic landscapes, and the undeniable appeal of tight-knit communities, making it the perfect fix for fans craving more of what Virgin River offers.

Introducing Sullivan’s Crossing: A Heartfelt, Small-Town Drama

Sullivan’s Crossing, based on the book series by Robyn Carr (the same author behind Virgin River), takes viewers to a picturesque small town that shares many thematic and visual similarities with the world of Virgin River. This new show follows the life of a woman named Maggie Sullivan, who, after a tumultuous chapter in her life, returns to her family’s lakeside resort in a remote town to heal and regroup.

Much like Virgin River, Sullivan’s Crossing centers on themes of personal growth, love, and the power of community. It explores the complexities of family relationships, the emotional burdens that individuals carry, and the healing process that small towns can provide. At its heart, the show captures the struggles of starting anew, seeking redemption, and dealing with past traumas—all set against the backdrop of nature’s beauty and the warmth of small-town life.

The Similarities with Virgin River: A Cozy Yet Dramatic Escape

For fans of Virgin River, it won’t take long to notice the many parallels that Sullivan’s Crossing shares with its more famous counterpart. First and foremost, both series are set in towns surrounded by stunning natural beauty—mountains, forests, and lakes provide a serene, picturesque environment that feels like a character in its own right. The lush scenery plays a significant role in enhancing the escapism factor that viewers love so much about Virgin River.

Like Virgin River, Sullivan’s Crossing has an ensemble cast of colorful, complex characters, many of whom are intertwined in relationships that are anything but simple. Maggie Sullivan (played by the talented Morgan Kohan) is not just returning to her childhood home; she’s also reconnecting with people from her past—some who bring joy and others who are reminders of painful memories. The town itself is brimming with dynamic personalities, including the local sheriff, a charming but enigmatic local handyman, and a group of close-knit neighbors who each have their own stories of love, loss, and hope.

The show doesn’t shy away from drama. The storyline involves deep emotional layers, including dealing with past heartbreak, family secrets, and the weight of personal choices. Maggie’s return to Sullivan’s Crossing is sparked by an urgent need for healing, and as she works to mend old wounds and build new relationships, the show offers a beautiful blend of personal growth and community-driven storylines. Fans of Virgin River will recognize the same slow-burn romance and dramatic tension that make the series so addictive.

A New Kind of Healing: The Power of Small-Town Life

One of the most compelling aspects of both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing is how the small-town setting plays a vital role in the characters’ emotional journeys. The secluded nature of these towns creates a cocoon where people can find peace and healing, but it also allows for the kind of intimate, sometimes messy relationships that drive much of the drama. In Sullivan’s Crossing, the town’s quaint charm provides the perfect backdrop for characters like Maggie to confront their pasts and work towards a brighter future.

Small-town life is often portrayed as both comforting and confining. The slower pace of life, the tight-knit relationships, and the opportunity to reconnect with one’s roots make these shows highly relatable. The residents of Sullivan’s Crossing are close to one another, but they also harbor their own personal struggles and secrets, which creates a rich, layered dynamic that will keep viewers hooked.

A Fresh Take with Familiar Comforts

While Sullivan’s Crossing shares many elements with Virgin River, it also offers something fresh. The show delves into different aspects of emotional healing, with Maggie’s journey as the focal point. She is forced to confront not only the trauma of a failed marriage but also the complex dynamics of returning to a place that holds so many bittersweet memories. There’s also a sense of renewal in the series, as Maggie embarks on a journey to rediscover herself and her purpose within the community, all while navigating complicated romantic and familial relationships.

The show also boasts impressive performances by its cast, including Scott Patterson (known for his role as Luke in Gilmore Girls), whose presence in the town adds another layer of intrigue and chemistry. His portrayal of a character who is both a source of comfort and potential heartbreak for Maggie makes for compelling television.

Why You Should Watch Sullivan’s Crossing

If you’re a Virgin River fan looking for a similar show to binge while waiting for the next season, Sullivan’s Crossing is the perfect choice. With its stunning visuals, emotionally driven plotlines, and a focus on family and romance, it offers everything viewers love about Virgin River while introducing new characters and fresh perspectives. Moreover, with Robyn Carr’s beloved world as the basis for the series, the show has a built-in fanbase, making it a natural fit for those who enjoy heartwarming, emotionally resonant drama.

Sullivan’s Crossing not only offers a beautiful escape into the world of small-town life but also serves as a reminder of the healing power of community and the importance of facing one’s past to embrace a better future. For fans of Virgin River, it’s a hidden gem that’s well worth discovering while you wait for the next season.

So, if you haven’t already, dive into the world of Sullivan’s Crossing—it’s the perfect new show to keep your heart full and your screen glowing as you await your next Virgin River fix.