Well, technically season six drops to Netflix on December 19^th and, while the countdown has begun, it’s time to journey back to season five (parts one and two!) for a reminder of what happened because — as my daughter used to lament — that was so last year.

For anyone who has been living under a rock…

Virgin River, the popular Netflix series based on Robyn Carr’s books, has become a go-to show for fans of romantic drama with a hefty mix of small-town charm. Last year, season five continued to captivate audiences with its compelling characters, emotional depth, and, oh my, that scenic landscape.

It also introduced new conflicts, challenges, and resolutions that reflect the show’s commitment to exploring love, loss, healing, and making us wish we lived in such a fabulous community. Or maybe that’s just me?

Jack and Mel…and our hearts take the hit!

Season five added a fresh layer of drama and intrigue for our favourite couple, along with the most heartbreaking of blows when Mel suffered a miscarriage. It’s understandably shattering for them both (and for us viewers!) and left Mel to ponder whether she really is meant to be a mother.

Meanwhile, Jack found his glamping business under investigation with the FBI thanks to evil Melissa — his No.1 investor — who was running a drug trade through her family logging business!

Paige and Preacher…call it quits!

Season five began with the kerfuffle from Wes’s brother Vince and we all felt relieved when he was taken away in handcuffs. But then Paige realised she was finally free and must spread her wings…and we discovered it won’t be in Virgin River no more!

Though he yearned for the kind of relationship that Mel and Jack have, ever the nice guy, Preacher was understanding of Paige’s decision and she departed with his fond wishes. Enter firefighter Kaia, and the sparks fly well and truly between her and Preach (pun intended)!

Brie, Brady, and Mike…yikes!

So Brie dumped Brady, which landed her straight into my bad books. And I blame the writers of the show for destroying the faith I had invested in these two. Their chemistry was off the charts, and if they were going to align Brie with Mike, just like the books, then it should have been done from the get-go (rant over).

Thankfully, a new relationship loomed for Brady with Lark, and my admiration for this bad boy looking for redemption was further cemented with the heartwarming scenes he had with Lark’s daughter (oh my heart).

Fire! And a liar!

The lush forests, tranquil rivers, and surrounding wilderness that make up Virgin River is practically a character in its own right, offering a sense of peace and beauty that contrasts with the turmoil sometimes experienced by its townsfolk. Like the introduction of a raging fire in season five!

While some houses and farms didn’t survive (Lilly’s property is sadly one of them), the people of Virgin River do what they do best…band together and overcome adversity.

Later, we’re dealt more blows when we discover Lark may actually be in cohorts with one of Brady’s enemies! And that Calvin is very much alive and the father of Charmaine’s twins!

Hope, Doc, Lizzy and Denny…also more characters aplenty!

Continuing their emotional journey through some very scary health issues, Doc and Hope still provide all the warmth and humour that Virgin River personifies.

While the dislike we’ve held for Charmaine dissipates when she finally gives birth to the twins.

There’s a secret relationship between Muriel and Cameron, which delivers a laugh-out-loud moment when they kiss in front of Jo Ellen!

And two big shocks are delivered when Lizzy announces she and Denny are having a baby! And Mel finally finds her father!

In summation…

Season five of Virgin River tackled a variety of important themes that resonated deeply. One of the most significant being the theme of family, both biological and chosen, and that it’s tight-knit community plays a pivotal role in every character’s development. Through personal loss, betrayal, and triumph, the collective strength of the townsfolk reminds us of the importance of belonging.

Watch the trailer for season 6!

P.S. Have you read the books yet? You can check them out below!

Written by Jo-Ann Milne