Netflix may have struck gold again, and this time, it’s with another gem from beloved author Robyn Carr. Following the roaring success of Virgin River, the streaming giant has witnessed another small-town phenomenon

rise through its ranks — Sullivan’s Crossing. Since the release of Season 3 on August 11, the romantic drama has skyrocketed up Netflix’s global charts, proving that Carr’s signature blend of heart,

healing, and hometown charm continues to captivate audiences everywhere.

A Double Dose of Robyn Carr Magic

Robyn Carr’s name has become synonymous with heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth, and her latest triumph on Netflix only reinforces that legacy. Virgin River, adapted from Carr’s best-selling novels, has been one of the platform’s most beloved hits since its 2019 debut. With seven seasons under its belt and an eighth already in production, it remains a cornerstone of Netflix’s romantic-drama lineup — a cozy, emotional escape that millions of fans return to season after season.

But now, another Carr creation is basking in the spotlight. Sullivan’s Crossing Season 3 — which first aired on The CW before landing on Netflix — immediately caught fire upon release. Within its first week, the show climbed to #4 among the most-watched English-language series in the U.S. and snagged the #6 spot globally between August 11 and 17, 2025. This sudden surge underscores how Netflix’s massive audience reach can breathe new life into even established shows, transforming them into global sensations.

A Fresh Story With Familiar Comforts

At its core, Sullivan’s Crossing tells a deeply human story that echoes the emotional resonance of Virgin River while charting its own path. The series follows Dr. Maggie Sullivan, a brilliant neurosurgeon whose seemingly perfect life in Boston collapses after she becomes entangled in a professional scandal. Seeking refuge and clarity, she returns to her childhood home in the picturesque community of Sullivan’s Crossing, Nova Scotia.

There, Maggie must confront her complicated past — particularly her strained relationship with her father, Sully — while rediscovering herself amid the slower rhythms of small-town life. Along the way, she finds connection, forgiveness, and the possibility of new love.

The show seamlessly weaves romance, family drama, and self-discovery into a heartfelt narrative that feels both intimate and grand. Much like Virgin River, it’s the kind of series that invites viewers to settle in with a cup of tea and lose themselves in its blend of warmth and emotional complexity.

Netflix’s Global Reach Sparks a Breakout Moment

Though Sullivan’s Crossing already had a loyal following in Canada, its move to Netflix has transformed it into an international talking point. The series’ newfound global success demonstrates the power of streaming to amplify regional favorites into worldwide sensations.

For Netflix, this is a significant win. The platform thrives on emotionally rich, character-driven dramas that inspire deep viewer engagement, and Sullivan’s Crossing checks every box. The small-town setting, scenic landscapes, and slow-burn relationships make it a perfect complement to Virgin River, offering fans another haven for heartfelt storytelling while they await the next chapter in Mel and Jack’s saga.

With Season 4 already confirmed for 2026, the show’s success could open doors to more seasons — or perhaps even spin-offs that further explore Carr’s expansive literary universe. It’s clear Netflix sees potential in building on the emotional worlds Carr has created, nurturing a shared sense of comfort and connection that resonates with millions.

Why Fans Are Falling in Love All Over Again

Part of the magic behind both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing lies in Carr’s ability to blend real-life struggles with hope and redemption. Maggie’s journey mirrors what many fans loved about Virgin River’s Mel Monroe — strong women facing life’s curveballs while rebuilding their sense of purpose.

Both stories explore the healing power of community and the unexpected ways love finds us when we least expect it. For Virgin River fans, Sullivan’s Crossing offers that same emotional heartbeat, with fresh faces and new stories that feel instantly familiar yet compellingly new.

Viewers have taken to social media to share how much they relate to Maggie’s emotional journey and how the show’s tranquil Nova Scotia setting provides a much-needed escape from the chaos of real life. It’s television as therapy — tender, grounding, and profoundly human.

A Well-Timed Arrival Between Virgin River Seasons

The timing couldn’t be better. With Virgin River Season 7 not expected until 2026, Sullivan’s Crossing has stepped into the perfect position to fill the emotional void. Its mix of romance, drama, and scenic storytelling makes it a natural successor — or at least a spiritual sibling — to Netflix’s reigning small-town hit.

For longtime fans of Virgin River, Sullivan’s Crossing doesn’t just serve as a stopgap; it expands the universe of heartwarming, character-driven drama that Robyn Carr does best. It’s a reminder that the appetite for soulful storytelling and second chances never truly fades — it just finds new homes.

What This Means for Netflix’s Future

Netflix has always excelled at identifying and nurturing emotional, community-based dramas that draw viewers in for the long haul. With both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing now thriving on the platform, the streamer seems poised to double down on this winning formula.

If Sullivan’s Crossing continues to perform strongly, fans could see Netflix investing even more deeply in Carr’s storytelling legacy — perhaps adapting additional novels from her extensive library. It’s not hard to imagine an expanded Carr universe where multiple interconnected stories of love, loss, and renewal coexist across different corners of the streaming world.

A New Era of Heartfelt Storytelling

At a time when audiences crave authenticity and emotional connection, Sullivan’s Crossing delivers exactly that. It reminds viewers that sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t about superheroes or dystopias, but about ordinary people finding strength and love in extraordinary circumstances.

Netflix’s success with both Virgin River and Sullivan’s Crossing proves that there’s still immense value in sincerity and heart. These are the kinds of shows that become part of viewers’ emotional landscape — the ones people return to for comfort, inspiration, and a good cry.

Final Thoughts

The rise of Sullivan’s Crossing marks more than just another hit for Netflix — it signifies a continuation of Robyn Carr’s reign as the queen of small-town drama. As the series continues to capture hearts around the world, it’s clear that fans of Virgin River have found a new home to love.

Between these two emotionally rich, beautifully crafted dramas, Netflix has secured a one-two punch of comfort viewing — stories that celebrate resilience, love, and the beauty of second chances.