I admit I was attracted to this book by the appealing fox on the cover! The story deals with the town of Fox Crossing which is squarely located near the end of the Appalachian trail in Maine. Annie runs an outfitting business for the hikers hitting the trail, but nothing raises her ire more than an unprepared or an unrealistic hiker. So when Nick comes in and doesn't know even the basics about hitting the trail, she insists he must at least have a tracking phone. It will end up saving his life.

This story gave off big "Gilmore Girl" cozy-town vibes to me. Although I was a sucker for Gilmore Girls, i admit that Fox Crossing left me feeling less enamored. Some of it was just sort of hokey to me. And the same with the romance. I wanted to like it, and root for Annie and Nick. But truth is I found them both sort of annoying.

This book could be somebody's cozy cup of tea, and I feel sort of bad for not feeling that way. It's a book full of innocent goodwill and it seems heartless to criticize. But it just wasn't for me. I would rate it 2.5 but I'm giving it a 3 star because I did read it and enjoy certain aspects of it.

Thank you to Net Galley, Melina Metz and Kensington Books for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I'm sorry this took so long!

Fox Crossing is the first book in the trilogy of the same name. It is set in Fox Crossing, Maine, a charming village that is the last stop before the final, grueling and most beautiful 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The town is also known for a little magic as well, a fox that if it is sighted, will bring good luck. The fox was saved by the town's founder back in the early 1800s, or is it a descendent? Annie Hatherley doesn't believe The Fox legend--even though it was her great-great-great-grandmother who spotted the critter centuries ago. Annie runs the family business, Hatherley's Outfitters, where she has been selling gear to hikers and trying to make sure they are ready for this final 100 miles. She has never seen "The Fox", until now. Will it bring luck, love or fortune to Annie. The owner of The Shoo Fly Baker also sees it and is ready to finally tackle the last part of the trail, but "The Fox" has something else in mind for him. Annie has no desire to settle down with a man, but when Nick Ferrone comes into her store to purchase a few things for the trail, she feels something for him. He is totally unprepared for this endeavour and she is worried for him. What will "The Fox" bring to Anne and Nick? Sit back and enjoy some winter and foxy magic.

As the story opened, I wasn't sure what I thought about Annie. At times she was sweet and thoughtful and others she was sarcastic and mean. She was stubborn and always thought she knew what was best for everyone. Once she saw "The Fox" she began to change and grow. She opened up more and began to care about Nick, this hiker she didn't know. Annie's grandmother, Honey, was my favourite character in the book. She was so friendly and was able to keep Annie on an even cool. She was often the voice of reason. She was also a fiery gal, flirtatious and with easy banter which I loved. Nick was almost a supporting character, but also the romantic interest in the story. He was willing to admit when he did something wrong which I loved. Overall, this was a somewhat predictable story with interesting characters, and a little magic.

A sigh worthy romance between a woman who doesnt believe in leagends and signs and a man who all signs say will be her true love. I spent a very enjoyable afternoon with the two of them and feel warm all over.

To be honest, I didn't finish this book. It was just a change to me from the author's previously book. I loved Mac. I loved the way the author anthropomorphized Mac. However, I never saw the appeal of the fox storyline. The reader is in the head of the fox for a little while, and then some see the fox. That appears to be the extent of the interaction.
Thank you for the ARC galley. While these books didn't work for me, I am open to reading another book by Melinda Metz.

I appreciate the publisher allowing me to read this book. This was a charming quick read that leaves you with a warm feeling inside.

This was such an original story like nothing I have ever read before. I loved the way the legend of the fox was described and how this played a part in the other aspects of the story. The characterisation was also great and I loved the relationships between the characters, also a perfect setting for this kind of book.

I would love to visit this charming village with its folklore. The premise for this story was enchanting and kept me flipping pages. It was a great book to snuggle up with in the cold. Many thanks to Kensington Books and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Going into the family outdoor gear business because she feels obligated to keep the business in the family, Annie Hatherley sells supplies to those thinking of hiking the nearby trails. Though Annie is fanatical about hiking and safety, she is not as adept with her interpersonal skills, which is often an issue working in retail. Customer Nick Ferrone gets under Annie's skin when he insists he is well prepared for a 100 mile hike on the Appalachian Trail; her instinct and warnings that he won't make it come way to close to reality, and the two of them are bound by circumstance. when she has to intervene.

The title refers to a legend surrounding an elderly fox who allegedly watches over the town and brings select residents good luck. Throughout the book, the fox shares her perspective on what is happening with any number of the characters, but especially Annie, as she is a direct descendant of a woman who saved her, generations earlier. No one knows exactly how old the fox is, if it is the same fox or not, or if she truly brings good fortune; the townspeople and visitors think the legend is real though, and thoroughly embrace it.

I hope there is a sequel, as some of the side characters had story-lines worth exploring in more depth. Plus there could be more to Annie's story as she re-evaluated her life and choices in the book's final pages.

(received a copy through NetGalley and have written an objective review)

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!

a light story that brings you so much joy when you meet the characters.

Annie Hatherley lives in the mountain village of fox crossing where there is a beautiful legend about a fox, she doesn't believe in it, she always even though her family has a history about this, Annie was a very stubborn character I like that she was always independent but at some point, she and her mother were always struggling when it comes to man, they didn't want any man to help them or even need any help from them, she constantly was disappointed for anything that any man did especially if they thought they knew much about hiking or anything related to the mountain.

Nick was looking forward to a relaxing trip and a very adventurous one too but he wasn't expecting to meet this beautiful woman who will keep him on his toes even if they didn't meet before, she was bold and didn't have any fear to express whenever Nick was doing something "wrong"

I had to admit sometimes I wanted to shake a few times Annie, she was very stubborn and she always thought she was right no matter what, I also got a little stressed that these women were all about only women no male, haha I mean I get the point of being unique and not needed the help of a man but sometimes that made me feel like they were on a rampage against all-male population ...

it was a great book I love whenever the fox was seeing somehow made me feel like the fox was rare and beautiful just like Annie and Nick both were unique with a strange past but a past that was somehow dragging them together.

love, hope, strength, and faith, second chances why not an many other feelings that will show from time to time while reading this book easy and very enjoyable to read.

It would be wonderful to know that Fox Crossing in Maine was ( it would be wonderful if it was ) a real place as we could all do with the fox helping people and animals where and when needed. This is a lovely book to read but it could have gone on longer with the lives of the characters.
Well written and thought out and I am giving this 4 stars and recommend it.

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this ARC

Fox Crossing, Maine is the charming village and last area of civilization before the 100 mile wilderness area and most beautiful area of the Appalachian Trail.
The little town is famous for something else though. Some believe it's magic, it has the Fox.
Some say crossing paths with it is said to bring good luck.
The Fox has appeared and leads people to those needing help people and animals alike.
The book really is lovely and I enjoyed reading the legend of the fox and it's appearances.
A light and cozy read perfect for Autumn snuggle time reading.


Pub Date 24 Nov 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Very cute characters and such a gorgeous setting; I love everything about books set in the wild wildnerness that is Maine. A little slow on the story line but if you like that sort of thing, a meandering, dialogue driven romance; this is perfect for you.

The Fox Crossing, Maine small town setting is a place full of quirky and eccentric characters. Each with their own story and background. These supporting characters provide an amusing backdrop for the Annie Hatherley and Nick Ferrone story. I like Nick who is at a crossroads in his life though he would tell you differently. As for Annie, how to describe her? Well, she has an old man’s grumpy attitude but a heart of gold. Mine you, she is a thirty-ish year old woman. Some may be put off by her but this is a main element of the story so I just went with it to see where it would go.

Then there is that 100-mile wilderness of the Appalachian Trail that takes on a personality in the beginning but fade as the story progresses. I am not sure even the fox sighting would give me the luck to travel that sketch of wilderness. So is this a romance, a travel story, a extended family omen’s fiction story or a Mayberry story. Well, I would say it is all of those in one entertaining story-line.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Okay, I'll admit it- I was prepared to put this one down because, really, an immortal fox? But then I found myself caught up in the story of Annie and Nick, two people from opposite ends of the spectrum, both of whom tell their side. Oh and the fox periodically has something to say as well. Annie is an outfitter in Fox Crossing, supplying hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Her many grands grandmother was the first one to see this mysterious fox which is said to bring good luck etc. to those who see it. Nick is a woefully unprepared hiker and Annie goes out to look for him - and the fox helps. This is more than a love story, though. It's also the story of the people of Fox Crossing. Nick isn't the only one rescued as a result of that fox. It's a cheery read. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This might remind you of a Hallmark movie and now more than ever, that's a good thing.

Fox Crossing
Melinda Metz
November 24, 2020


The fox with the black tip on her tail has lived in the wilderness area of the Appalachian Trail for 200 years. She was rescued by a woman who fed and brought her back from starvation. The woman left out food and water as needed. She gave life to the fox and in the end the fox would provide her magic to the woman and her family. This unusual story begins with Annie Hatherly standing behind the counter at Hatherley’s Outfitters. It is the only game in town for hikers to stop if they need equipment of any kind before beginning the 100 mile wilderness hike, the last of the Maine section of the AT. It was a tough section that even the pros have trouble completing. As Annie watched a great looking guy walking toward the door to the shop, she couldn’t help but think that he didn’t hold a prayer of making it to the top of Katahdin. She not only sells her wares to hikers but Annie knows her business well. She knows what needs to be taken on the journey and what needs to be discarded before beginning. She has walked the trail start to finish and back. She knows the struggles of the wilderness, and has rescued many a wanderer. To begin such expeditions it is necessary to study, prepare and practice on other trails. Looking at Nick as he entered the store once again her temper got the best of her. It wasn’t how he looked, no that was great. It was the way he struggled with his pack filled to the limit. If he struggled walking from his car, the bag had way too much within.
This unusual story gives a view of some of the odd characters who live in the village of Fox Crossing, Maine. It’s the last stop before the trail begins. Townsfolk have seen the travelers, come and settle in and prepare for the next step. There is a bar, bakery, antique shop and many little establishments that allow tourists to visit, talk and just experience a bit of the wonder of nature.
Melinda Metz gives us a clear picture of what life appears to be in Fox Crossing. The residents and their families are interesting. How they view the summer to fall guests is fun as well. I did enjoy reading her novel but found the first half of the book to have too many conversations with Annie and her family. On the other hand I would have enjoyed more details in the last half of the book. Overall though I consider it a great book to read. I have always enjoyed a good hike and have done enough that I realize what an excursion the Appalachian Trail would be. Her book Fox Crossing will be released on November 24, 2020 by Kensington Publishing Corporation. In all fairness this is the first selection I have read by Metz. It could be her style of writing and I give it to her that it was an engaging and authentic book to read. Readers who like to hike and explore will appreciate this read.

Fox Crossing is distinguished from the standard small-town romance by the appearance of a sprinkling of woo-woo in the form of an immortal fox who looks over the people of the town as if they were her kits. The characters are well-drawn and believable, and so's the romance and the happy ending.

This is a well written book but I just couldn't connect with the characters. Maybe it was just my frame of mind at the time. Don't let my review stop you from giving this book a chance, a lot of people loved it. Thank you Kensington Books via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

I really loved this story, and I can’t wait to read more by this author! There was a little bit of time in the middle where it seem to move a little slowly and take a little too long to get the main characters together, but maybe that’s just me being impatient. :) I found the characters fascinating, each and everyone of them, And I dearly loved the tiny interludes from the point of view of the special fox. The theme of how we are all interconnected was beautifully woven through a Love Story, and a story about family and friends.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I have mixed emotions on this one, I loved the beginning when we started on the AT, but that didn’t last long and the book took a dive into a chick flick light romantic comedy. Of which it did very well.
I have a friend that hiked the 100-mile wilderness trail in Maine and we were comparing notes, unfortunately my notes ran out pretty quick since the book took a turn. I enjoyed the banter between Annie, her mother, the grandmother, Chloe and especially Nick. This is a light hearted, clean romance comedy read. With a little bit of folk lore mixed in with the fox story.
This one comes in with 4 stars. Good, clean, fun read….
I want to thank Kensington Books and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book for my honest unbiased opinion. This one comes in with a 4-star review.