Goodreads Summary:

The charming village of Fox Crossing, Maine (founded 1805) is the last bit of civilization before the 100-mile wilderness, the wildest and arguably most beautiful stretch of the Appalachian Trail. The little town has something else to offer as well… something rare, something that a few even call magic. It has The Fox. Crossing paths with a black cat is said to bring bad luck. But crossing paths with The Fox is a whole other story…

SOME SAY THE FOX IS GOOD LUCK
In the mountain village of Fox Crossing, Maine, everyone knows the story of The Fox. According to local legend, one of the town’s founders crossed paths with a curious-looking fox with a distinctive white ear and paw. The unusual fox sighting not only inspired the town’s name, it sparked a fantastical piece of folklore that’s been passed down for generations. Some people say that whoever sees The Fox will be rewarded with good fortune, love, and happiness. Others say it’s just a silly folk tale…

WHAT DOES THE FOX SAY?
Annie Hatherley doesn’t believe The Fox legend–even though it was her great-great-great-grandmother who spotted the critter centuries ago. But now it’s part of Annie’s legacy, along with her family business, Hatherley’s Outfitters. For years, Annie’s been selling gear to hikers on the Appalachian Trail. But she’s never seen The Fox–until now. Out of nowhere, this little white-eared vixen leads her to Nick Ferrone, a woefully unprepared hiker who needs her help. The Shoo Fly Bakery owner also spots the sly creature–who takes him to a homeless dog that needs his love. Annie can’t deny that something magical is happening–because she’s starting to fall for a certain foxy hiker named Nick…

My thoughts:

When I saw this book on NetGalley I immediately requested it – snow, a fox, hiking – this book is totally made for me. And I absolutely adored it! I finished it and immediately looked to see if the author had anymore books set in this quirky town of Fox Crossing, Maine. (no, but I am hoping that changes!)

This small town sets right on the edge of the 100 Mile Wilderness in Maine, the northernmost end of the Appalachian Trail, and said to be very dangerous and for experienced hikers only. For the most part, the residents of Fox Crossing are open and friendly, with maybe one or two exceptions. One of whom is Annie, who runs Hatherly’s Outfitters, and is the last shop of its kind before hikers would begin the 100 Mile Wilderness. If they need something, Hatherly’s is their last option – which is good because Annie can be a bit prickly, especially if she feels a hiker is not ready for the trail. Which is how she meets good-natured Nick Ferrone, and from there, sparks and other things fly.

There is also a legend of The Fox – not just any fox, but The Fox. To spot the fox is said to bring luck, good fortune, even love – and there are those who seek The Fox out for just these reasons. Others choose not to believe – how could one fox be around for so long, right?

This book was delightful – I love books set in small towns with interesting characters, and the extra added bonus of a legend made it perfect. I loved every character in this book, which rarely happens. Like I said, I would love to read more about these characters!

If you are looking for some warm and cozy reads this winter, this is definitely one to add to your list.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review!