5 Adventure Books About Savannah GA

Welcome to Savannah, Georgia—a city where every cobblestone, square, and moss-draped oak tells a story. Known for its historic charm, architectural treasures, and the past whispers that echo through its streets, Savannah serves as a captivating backdrop for stories ranging from the deeply historical to the magically mysterious. If you’re drawn to the allure of this Southern belle, you’re in for a literary treat.

In this post, we’ll meander through the heart of Savannah, guided by a selection of books that capture the essence of this enchanting city. Whether you’re in the mood for spine-tingling ghost stories, rich historical narratives, or romantic tales set against Savannah’s picturesque backdrop, prepare to be transported. So, grab a sweet tea, find a comfortable spot beneath a sprawling live oak, and let’s explore the books that bring the spirit of Savannah to life.

5 Books About Savannah GA

Savannah boasts a rich and storied history that dates back to its founding in 1733. It is steeped in Southern charm and traditions, from its antebellum mansions and oak-lined streets to its vibrant arts scene and culinary delights. Books on Savannah pay homage to the city’s literary legacy, exploring its influence on authors such as Flannery O’Connor, John Berendt, and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, whose works have immortalized Savannah in the literary canon.

Here are the top five books that represent Savannah, GA, with its history, culture, architecture, ghostly legends, natural beauty, and literary inspiration. Let’s travel!

1. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

This is a classic Southern set in Savannah, Georgia. Also, it is a non-fiction true-crime book but more of a travel memoir. A murder doesn’t happen until about halfway through the book. The book is mainly about Savannah, Georgia, and the people there.

John Berendt was a journalist who worked for New York magazine and became enamored with Savannah. So he visited there frequently and then lived there for a little while. John talks about all the people that he met there. Many are high society people, and all these characters seem stereotypes.

A transgender character named Lady Shibli plays herself in the movie. She was a fascinating and entertaining character. Also, Savannah, Georgia, is almost a character, which I enjoyed about the book. There is the true crime aspect, and I found that very interesting. Moreover, there’s a lot of interesting commentary about what race relations were in Savannah and the LGBTQ community at this time.

Author: John Berendt
Narrator: Jeff Woodman
Publisher: Random House Audio
Average Rating: 4.5/5
Tropes: Traditions, Social Sciences, Local History, Dark, Poetic
Number Of Pages: 386
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Hardcover | Kindle | Audio CD

2. The Line: Witching Savannah

The story is set in Savannah, Georgia, and then an alternate reality where magic is regularly used. So the story is about Mercy and her twin sister, Maisy, who are members of the most powerful witching family in the South. But Mercy is regular, which means she has no power.

Yet she’s in the thick of a mystery that could break the line her family has held against the darkness for generations. She’s a wishy-washy character who doesn’t do much for herself with any serious thought. A lot happens in the book to her, but she seems more a passive bystander than anything else, especially for the book’s main character. It’s a little bit strange.

The premise of the existence of magic on Earth and the family’s role in maintaining that line was pretty well explained. Mercy goes on and on about how he betrayed her, but she’ll keep him in her life for the baby’s sake. The only character I felt drawn to was her aunt, Ginny.

Mercy had a more complex history, even if it wasn’t drawn out enough. The City of Savannah itself was the most interesting character in the book, if that tells you anything. I found two major problems: complicated characters and predictability. If you want an excellent urban fantasy, I would recommend this book.

Author: J. D. Horn
Narrator: Shannon McManus
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Award nominee: Goodreads Choice
Average Rating: 4.3/5
Tropes: Occult Horror, Paranormal Romance, Witches, Mystery
Number Of Pages: 296
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle | Audio CD

3. Savannah Blues (Weezie and Bebe Mysteries)

Our main character, Weezie, is an antique picker going through a divorce. She is trying to get first dibs at a great estate sale. While camping out overnight, she decides she must go to the bathroom. So she breaks into the house that will be hosting the sale.

When she falls through the window, she discovers a dead body. Her ex-husband is now a murder suspect, and she decides that she has to help him clear his name while they’re going through this divorce. He lives in the front of their big house, and she lives in the carriage house behind.

So there’s a whole lot of friction there. Also, there’s lots of Southern humor to this one. Weezie’s trying to solve the mystery. You will love the savannah that she has created. It’s the perfect escape. The secret is not enough to make the thrilling vibe and romancing plot poor. But the author develops the characters brilliantly, and the humor is good enough. Pick the book if you like Savannah’s beauty.

Author: Mary Kay Andrews
Narrator: Susan Ericksen
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Tropes: Small Town, Rural Fiction, Humor, Love
Number Of Pages: 404
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Hardcover | Kindle | Mass Market Paperback

4. Fallen

Fallen series follows Luce Price, who gets put into a reform school because people think she murdered a guy. While there, she meets Cam and a guy named Daniel. She’s attracted to Daniel, and she doesn’t know why. That’s where our story unravels at Savannah.

The book involved time travel, and it was annoying because the characters were trying to chase after another character. But then one of the characters lost the other character at a different time because they ran off before that other character could catch them. We learn a little about Cam, and his story is fascinating. The mystery aspect of this book was easy to figure out.

You could tell by the title what it will be about and what paranormal things it involves. I had problems with these books because I found them a little slow, especially the first book. Luce also annoyed me sometimes because the whole story is all about her. I had to know the mystery of what Luce was, and I needed to know everything.

There are always going to be mixed reviews about every single book. So even if you are thinking about reading the series and don’t want to because you’ve heard bad things, read it anyway because everyone has their opinion.

Author: Lauren Kate
Narrator: Justine Eyre
Publisher: Listening Library
Average Rating: 4.4/5
Tropes: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Supernatural, Angels
Number Of Pages: 452
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Hardcover | Kindle | Audio CD

5. A Stone in the Sea (Bleeding Stars)

Our protagonist, Sebastian Stone, is a dark, brooding, and sexy musician. He is the lead singer and guitarist of his band Thunder. They are a heavy metal-type screamo band. He has been sent to Savannah, Georgia. Under some circumstances, he is essentially being kept in hiding and wants to be entirely out of the public eye.

But he ends up going to a bar in Savannah, Georgia, where he ends up meeting Shay Bentley. She is a gorgeous 23-year-old Southern Belle, and he is instantly attracted to her. That’s how our two heroes meet Shay. Shay is in no mood to get mixed up with anybody, but she cannot deny her attraction toward Sebastian. It is not instant love, so I don’t want to give that impression.

Sebastian and Shay can’t deny this powerful pull between them, and they start to connect. This story is full of secrets and guilt between these two characters, especially Sebastian, whose life has been pretty tumultuous up to this point. Also, Shay has another set of priorities on her list, so she cannot get mixed up with Sebastian.

So this book uncovers each other’s secrets and teaches how to be comfortable and let each other in when they’ve been locked down for so long. If you love romance in Savannah, Georgia, you must read it. Avoid hardcover because its font and color are poor, but the paperback quality is good.

Author: A.L. Jackson
Publisher: A.L. Jackson Books Inc.
Average Rating: 4.5/5
Tropes: Romance, Musicians, Dark, Angsty, Super-rich-hero
Number Of Pages: 302
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Mass Market Paperback | Kindle

5 Romance Books About Savannah GA

1. “Savannah Blues” by Mary Kay Andrews

This novel follows Eloise “Weezie” Foley, an antique dealer in Savannah, as she faces the challenges of her recent divorce, a competitive ex-husband, and her quest for hidden treasures in the city’s historic district. Amidst her adventures, Weezie is entangled in a budding romance that promises new beginnings. Andrews masterfully combines mystery, humor, and romance, capturing the essence of Savannah’s charm.

2. “Blue Willow” by Pamela Poole

Set against the backdrop of Savannah’s historic and picturesque scenery, “Blue Willow” tells the story of artist Willa Bellemore and gallery owner Julian Clayton. Their love story, filled with art, mystery, and the pursuit of happiness, showcases the beauty of Savannah while exploring themes of personal growth and the power of second chances. Poole’s vivid descriptions of Savannah enhance the romantic and artistic narrative.

3. “Savannah by the Sea” by Denise Hildreth

The third book in the Savannah series, this novel sees Savannah Phillips embarking on a journey of self-discovery in the coastal city after a series of life-changing events. As she faces her new life, Savannah finds herself caught in a romantic whirlwind that challenges her notions of love and happiness. Hildreth captures the spirit of Savannah, Georgia, with warmth and wit, making it a perfect setting for this story of love and renewal.

4. “To Dance with the White Dog” by Terry Kay

While not a traditional romance novel, this poignant story captures the enduring love between Sam Peek and his late wife, Cora. After Cora’s death, Sam believes a mysterious white dog visits him that no one else can see, leading him on a journey through grief and healing. Set in the heart of Georgia, the novel’s backdrop of Savannah’s countryside adds depth to this touching tale of love, loss, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend time.

5. “The House on Tradd Street” by Karen White

This novel blends elements of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. Realtor Melanie Middleton inherits a historic home in Savannah with a complicated past. With the help of writer Jack Trenholm, she seeks to uncover the house’s secrets, leading to discoveries about love, ghosts, and hidden treasures. White’s portrayal of Savannah enchants readers with its historical depth and the promise of newfound love amidst uncovering the past.

5 Nonfiction Books About Savannah GA

1. “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” by John Berendt

The most famous book about Savannah, this work is a sublime blend of true crime and travelogue, offering a vivid snapshot of Savannah society. While it reads like a novel, it’s rooted in the true events surrounding a notorious murder case in the 1980s, set against the backdrop of Savannah’s lush squares and eccentric characters. Berendt’s narrative captures Savannah’s charm, mystery, and dark undercurrents, making it an essential read for anyone fascinated by the city.

2. “Savannah: Then and Now” by Polly Cooper and Ted Eldridge

This book pairs historical photographs and descriptions with contemporary views to show how the city has changed over time and what has remained the same. It’s a visual journey through Savannah’s history, highlighting its architecture, streets, and public spaces, making it perfect for history buffs and lovers of this picturesque city.

3. “Savannah Revisited: History & Architecture” by Mills Lane

Focusing on Savannah’s architectural and historical significance, this book offers a comprehensive look at the city’s development from its founding in 1733 to the present day. Lane, an authority on Georgian architecture, provides in-depth analyses of Savannah’s buildings and squares, accompanied by photographs and illustrations. This book is a guide and a scholarly resource on Savannah’s urban and architectural history.

4. “A Savannah Experience: An Artistic Expression of My Life in Savannah” by Sonja Robinson

This unique book offers a personal look at Savannah through the eyes of a local artist and writer. Robinson combines her artwork with narratives about Savannah’s culture, from its food and festivals to its music and art scene. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the city’s vibrant community and a source of inspiration for exploring Savannah’s artistic and cultural offerings.

5. “Haunted Savannah: America’s Most Spectral City” by James Caskey

Savannah is America’s most haunted city, and this book explores the ghost stories and legends contributing to its spooky reputation. Caskey, a seasoned ghost tour guide, delves into the history behind the hauntings, offering a mix of historical research and firsthand stories. It’s an engaging read for anyone interested in the paranormal aspects of Savannah or looking to uncover the stories behind some of its most famous haunted locations.

5 Fiction Books About Savannah GA

1. “Savannah Blues” by Mary Kay Andrews

This novel introduces us to Eloise “Weezie” Foley, a feisty antique dealer navigating through personal and professional turmoil in the heart of Savannah. Amidst a contentious divorce and fierce competition with her ex-husband for estate sale treasures, Weezie finds herself involved in a mystery that could change her life forever. With a backdrop of Savannah’s historic charm, “Savannah Blues” is a witty and engaging read filled with Southern humor and romance.

2. “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” by John Berendt

While classified as non-fiction, Berendt’s atmospheric narrative reads like a novel, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. It shows the intriguing social circles of Savannah and follows a sensational murder trial that captivates the city. The book paints a vivid picture of Savannah, from its opulent mansions to its dark, moss-draped squares, making the city itself a central character in this compelling story.

3. “Blue Willow” by Deborah Smith

This touching novel tells the story of a woman returning to her roots in Savannah, carrying a precious family heirloom – a Blue Willow plate. The story weaves together themes of family, love, and the search for belonging, set against the backdrop of Savannah’s historic landscapes and Southern traditions. Smith’s lyrical writing and rich character development make “Blue Willow” a heartfelt homage to the city and its heritage.

4. “The House on Tradd Street” by Karen White

Mixing elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural, this novel follows Melanie Middleton, a realtor who can see ghosts, as she inherits an old house in Savannah with a mysterious past. As she shows the house’s history, Melanie uncovers long-buried secrets and a growing attraction to a charming writer determined to help her solve the mystery. Savannah’s historic charm and ghostly legends provide a perfect setting for this intriguing tale.

5. “Falling Home” by Karen White

This novel explores love, redemption, and the meaning of home as Cassie Madison returns to her small hometown of Walton, Georgia, near Savannah, after years in New York. Faced with unresolved issues from her past, including a strained relationship with her sister, Cassie must confront her fears and secrets. White captures the essence of the South with her vivid descriptions of the landscape and community, making “Falling Home” a moving story of reconciliation and second chances.

Savannah has unfolded before us through the pages we’ve turned in all its historic splendor, mystery, and Southern charm. These books have not only introduced us to the characters and tales that roam its streets but have also deepened our appreciation for the city’s rich cultural tapestry and the indelible mark it leaves on all who visit, both in person and through the magic of storytelling.

Whether these narratives have inspired you to explore Savannah’s shadowy lanes and sunlit squares for the first time or to revisit them with a new perspective, we hope your literary travels have been as enchanting as the city of Savannah itself. Until our next adventure into the pages of history, folklore, and romance, happy reading, and may the haunting beauty of Savannah continue to inspire your wanderlust and imagination.

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