Cozy Little Christmas

by RaeAnne Thayne

Cozy Little Christmas has descriptive copy which is not yet available from the Publisher.

Genres: Christmas, Holiday, Romance

320 pages, Paperback

Expected publication October 6, 2026

About the author

I'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.

Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.

After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.

Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.

I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.

I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.

Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.

I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com

Reviews

[Julianne Harkleroad · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite Christmas (in July) themed book this 2026! Hannah is living her best life, minding her own business, being the best human we all could hope to be, when she's sweetly warned- by more than one person- that her ex, Wes Kenner, will be returning to their small town. WORSE yet, he's already here AND moved in right next to her. Are you kidding? But she's fine! Just ignore the handsome K9 Officer and his adorable, yet injured, Malinois Kodiak, and go about her business making everyone's day better.

Their lives begin to intertwine, again, as his Grandfather and her twin step in to help Hannah set-up and generously care for two, new-to-town kids. Their mom, Morgan, is very sick and needs medical care at a better hospital far away. Morgan shares that she will not be able to care for her kids while undergoing this new treatment and has no one to turn to for help. Hannah refuses to let Morgan miss this life-saving opportunity and volunteers to watch Morgan's children until she recovers. Y'all, my foster care heart strings.....

I loved the storyline, subtle literary strategy, and emotional growth they both shared on the pages. If only we were all like Hannah! RaeAnne Thayne is a fantastic author, I can't wait to read through her catalog!!

Shout out to the best Hannah I know and her beautiful family 💙

Troupes: small town romance, cozy setting, return home, found family, second chance romance, Doberman MMC, K9, forced proximity, servant sacrifice, HEA
Spice: 0/5 🌶️
Gore: 0/5 🩸
Language: 0/5 👀
Triggers: stalker fears, terminal illness

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for this ARC!

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cozy Little Christmas is exactly what the title promises; a warm, comforting holiday read wrapped in a picturesque mountain town.

The story follows a second-chance romance between Hannah and Wes, whose relationship ended twelve years earlier after tragedy struck Wes’s family. His decision to walk away felt rooted more in guilt and obligation than a lack of love, giving their reunion an emotional foundation.

RaeAnne Thayne excels at creating cozy communities, and this town is one I’d happily visit. The snow-dusted pines, sparkling Christmas lights, glittering ornaments, and time spent ice skating created the perfect holiday atmosphere. The close-knit friendships and sense of community were easily my favorite part of the novel. I also got a kick out of the meddling grandfather, who added some fun moments along the way.

One unexpected highlight was the food! The descriptions of the homemade Italian meal were so mouthwatering that I immediately wanted to recreate it myself.

While there were hints of danger and adventure sprinkled throughout the story, it left me wanting a bit more payoff.

The romance itself was sweet, but it never completely captured me. Although it’s presented as the central storyline, I found the stronger emotional focus to be the enduring friendships, family bonds, and the way a supportive community rallies around one another. Those elements carried the story far more than the romance did.

If you’re looking for a gentle, heartwarming Christmas read with a beautiful small-town setting and a strong emphasis on community, this is a cozy choice for the holiday season.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to MIRA and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

RaeAnne Thayne returns with a holiday romance in 'Cozy Little Christmas'. Hannah Goodwin has created a life for herself in Shelter Springs with her family, work and her music. She has embraced her life and created a music therapy program that is reaching many in the community. When Hannah's new friend Morgan get bad news, Hannah offers to care for her two children. She believes that is what friends do. What she wasn't expecting was to run into her long ago boyfriend, Wes Kenner. I found her feelings about Wes to be authentic and true to the character.

Wes Kenner has become a K9 officer who has returned home to clean out his grandfather's home and get it ready to sell. He and his K9 partner have been injured, so he will be doing some recuperation as well. When he sees Hannah, he is filled with regret for having left after a robbery that killed his father and several injured his mother. Filled with regret and hope, he is looking to right the wrongs. With supporting characters throwing them together, will the magic of Christmas set everything right.

I found this novel a joy to read and perfect for the holiday season. With a bit of a mystery thrown in, adorable children and a dog, this holiday read makes for one 'Cozy Little Christmas'.

[Elisabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cozy Little Christmas has all the ingredients of a classic Hallmark-style holiday romance: a charming small town, a second chance love story, plenty of Christmas spirit, and a close knit community. Shelter Springs is wonderfully atmospheric, and the festive setting was my favorite part of the book.

The romance between Hannah and Wes is sweet, and Kodiak, Wes's injured K9 partner, adds an extra touch of charm. However, I found the pacing slow, especially through the middle, and had trouble staying fully engaged.

This is my second RaeAnne Thayne novel, and I've realized her style just isn't the best fit for me. Her books lean heavily into the Hallmark feel, with nearly every character carrying some past tragedy. While I know many readers enjoy the emotional weight and uplifting resolutions, I found it a little too sentimental for my taste.

If you're looking for a cozy Christmas romance filled with family, forgiveness, and holiday charm, this will likely be a great fit.

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Bethany Liles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book SO much! I am a big fan of RaeAnne Thayne and have been for a long time, every time I read one of her books it becomes my new favorite! This one definitely is at the top for me, and one of the best holiday reads I have read. An easy read, but also connects you to the characters from the very beginning. I felt like Hannah was the best friend we all want to have, and look up to. Offering to look after a friend's children while going through cancer treatments was a no brainer for her, and she happily added it into her crazy life. Never once in the book did she mention she was overwhelmed, had too much on her plate, or was stressed which is hard to do during the holiday season, and a good reminder for us all! And...of course the come back of her first love, and the re-connection....I am in LOVE with their story, and how it all came together! I will forever be team Wes and Hannah! This was such a good, wholesome, heartfelt read that I definitely will re-read and share with others!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the Advanced Reader Copy!

[Jacquie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking for a cozy Christmas book where it is filled with good people and heartwarming sacrifices? This is the book for you. Cozy Little Christmas, written by RaeAnne Thayne was gifted to me as an advanced e book from NetGalley, and I am so thankful that it was. Hannah, a music therapist in the town of Shelter Springs, has a heart of gold. When new to town Morgan, needs some help with her two children, Hannah jumps in to take care of them. What Hannah does not expect is her old boy friend Wes to come back into town and to stir up feelings that she thought she pushed way down deep. This book is filled with a town of great characters that really rally behind each other and take good care of each other. This book took place from the week of Thanksgiving all the way up to Christmas so all of the winter holiday feels were present. Christmas decorating, singing, concerts, and lots of snow. This is definitely a good book to read to warm your heart.

[TReadsWithTea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely inhaled this book. It’s a small-town, second-chance - and even though second-chance usually gives me anxiety, this one didn’t at all. Hannah and Wes had such great chemistry, and the angst actually worked for me for once. I didn’t find myself rolling my eyes at their breakup or reconciliation, which is rare.

Wes owns his mistakes and isn’t afraid to admit when he messed up, which made him so refreshing as an MMC. The whole story felt like a warm hug on a cold winter day. There was no spice but I still loved the tension between the two.

My only gripe is that it wasn’t long enough. I would’ve loved more glimpses of Hannah and Wes in the past or more time with them once they reunited. Still, the pacing worked well, the side characters were great, and I’m definitely excited to read more from this author.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Jessica Sattler · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a cozy Christmas romance! 🎄✨

The story follows Hannah and Wes, two friends who dated in the past, making this a sweet second-chance romance. While I really enjoyed the story overall, I found myself wishing there had been a little more chemistry and emotional connection between the two of them. The friendships and family relationships were incredibly well developed and honestly became one of my favorite parts of the book.

I also loved the small-town setting (always a favorite of mine!) and the touch of mystery woven throughout the story that kept me turning the pages.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming, emotional holiday romance filled with cozy Christmas vibes, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. I really enjoyed my time with it, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to read it as an ARC. Thank you!

[Barb Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love RaeAnne Thayne books and Christmas in July! Hannah is living her life as a music therapist in Shelter Cove. She learns that her true love Wes, who broke her heart when he left after his family suffered a tragedy, is returning to Shelter Cove. Wes returns as an injured police officer with his K9 Kodiac who was also injured in the line of duty. Hannah is the friend everyone wants to have. Upon learning that her friend Morgan needs an experimental cancer treatment in another state, she agrees to care for Morgan's two young children. Her twin sister Holly and Wes's grandfather Stanley are determined for them to get back together. I loved the kindness and true definition of how family and friends can get you through even the most difficult times. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

RaeAnne Thayne delivers a beautiful story full of amazing characters and an emotional journey that leaves me full of joy.

Cozy Little Christmas is about Hannah and Wes. They dated when they were younger, but after a tragedy happened, Wes broke things off with Hannah and they never spoke again. Not only did he break Hannah's heart, he broke his own too. A dozen years later and they have finally come face to face and both realize that no matter how long it has been, they have never really stopped loving each other.

There was so many fun, yet emotional things happening in this book. Let's just say I don't want to spoil it, but I'm totally gushing over this story. I loved being back in Shelter Springs! I would totally move there.

Cozy Little Christmas was wonderful. I loved every single minute of it.

Highly recommend!

[Diane Rey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Christmas reads and this one did not disappoint. Hannah loves to help people, after all she is a music therapist. She is helping her friend Morgan by taking care of her children when she goes for medical treatment. She also tried to help her boyfriend Wes years ago when his father was murdered. Wes knew he would no longer be good for Hannah so he left town. Now, injured on the job, he’s back and Hannah wants nothing to do with him. Wes still thinks he’s no good for Hannah, but their efforts to avoid one another prove otherwise. I enjoyed reading how Wes transformed himself and I loved the song selection Hannah had for her Christmas concert. It had me singing too! Thank you to #htpbooks HarperCollins and #Netgalley for a free copy of this book for an honest review.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m really enjoying Christmas books for Christmas in July. I was estranged from everyone in my extended family for over a year.My two adult children still had contact with my family and it was extremely hard for me to understand. I have read a lot of books that have family estrangement in them lately.It’s really sad that it’s so common anymore!
Hannah is taking care of a friend’s children while their mom is undergoing cancer treatment. I can’t even imagine how hard that was for everyone involved. I tell everyone I won’t fight cancer if I ever have it.
This book is about having a second chance at love with someone who you dated years ago. I don’t recommend rekindling a romance if it didn’t work the first time.Obviously not everyone has the same experience I have though!

[Kay Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet, comforting, and quick holiday read! Small-town charm, festive atmosphere, and a gentle second-chance romance between Hannah and Wes. Beyond the romance, the heart of the book really lies in the wonderful themes of friendship. I loved seeing how Hannah selflessly stepped in to care for her dear friend Morgan and her kids right when they needed help the most—it really captured that true holiday spirit! Plus, Wes’s injured K9 partner, Kodiak, completely stole every scene he was in. While it felt a little predictable at times, it’s still a solid, pleasant read that is perfect for curling up with a hot cup of cocoa during the holiday season. Thank you Netgalley and MIRA for this advance reader.

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cozy Little Christmas is a feel-good, Hallmark-esque book centered on Hannah, a music therapist, and Wes, a police officer. Hannah agrees to care for a friend's two kids so the friend can receive cancer treatment, and at the same time, Hannah finds out that her first love, Wes, has come back to town to spend the holiday season with his grandfather. As Hannah navigates the holiday season caring for two kids, she learns to rely on others for help, including Wes. This was a quick, charming read, and I found the book focused more on friendship and community rather than romance. It is a part of the Shelter Springs series, but you can easily read this as a stand-alone book.

Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Marilyn D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Net Galley for the ARC of this sweet holiday read. I always enjoy RaeAne Thayne’s novels and this one doesn’t let me down. Set in a small very Hallmark-esque town in Idaho the story gives you all the holiday feels. An injured K-9 cop returns to his hometown to heal and reconnects with his music therapist ex young love. This a sweet story with lots of goodness thrown in. There are multiple issues going on that hold your attention throughout. I actually enjoyed reading a holiday book in June. It was a nice escape from the sweltering Florida temps. 😊. This book lives up to its title and gives off a cozy Christmas vibe.

[Jessica Bookbestiejessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cozy little Christmas is literally the perfect title of this book. BTW I’m reading this in July 🤣 I sometimes just like to read happy Christmas books in the middle of the year to feel that Christmas spirit and this book definitely delivers. This book also added second chances, friendship, small town romance, a handsome police officer(with a doggo)! I am such a sucker for second chance romance and I thought this one was written very well, I loved how neither of the characters really ever moved on, because they were meant for each other. This also had deeper themes like cancer, but it was written with grace and seemed thoughtful for those who could have dealt with similar situations.

[Ashley Tate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Harper Collins and NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book.

Admittedly, I am Christmas lover and from this time of year (July) until January, I will be predominantly devouring new Christmas books.

I wasn't prepared for the emotional side of this book. This is no fault of the author, I enjoyed her writing and story-telling but I am more light-hearted and less emotional exploration for my books. My anxiety just prefers it that way.

Hannah had the best heart and it was gratifying watching her journey through second chances and fostering.

Small-Town
Second Chance
Illness
Forced Proximity

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love returning to Shelter Springs, where the community always steps up to support anyone who needs a helping hand. People just feel at home here. But sometimes you run into a person from your past who comes back into town, who broke your heart and you wonder how you will ever make it through the holiday season while they are around. RaeAnne Thayne, does what she does best and weaves a wonderful tale of families who have been torn apart by tragedy but manage to overcome the past and move on to a happier future. This will make your spirits bright this Christmas. I recommend it highly. Thank you NetGalley for the advance copy of Cozy Little Christmas in exchange for my honest review.

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

RaeAnne Thayne's Cozy Little Christmas lives up to it's title. A music therapist, a recovering law enforcement officer along with a cast of characters living with what life hands them both good and bad.
This is a book to be savored while drinking hot chocolate, snuggled under a cuddly blanket waiting and watching for snow flurries.
This is the type of Christmas book Ms. Thayne gifts us with around the holidays. Cozy Little Christmas does not disappoint.
Five stars and my thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to early read

[Sheri Fields · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the new RaeAnne Thayne, I read it in one sitting! As the series continues we get to learn about Hannah, who is the twin to Holly. Hannah got her heart broken and although she claims to have recovered, its obvious she never really has. Hannah is a music therapist and a friend to all and I mean to everyone!!! Her life is about to be turned upside down when injured K-9 cop Wes Kenner comes back to town then add in add helping a sick friend. Read the book, continue the series..its a feel good book and who doesn't need some feel good right now!!!

[Christina Lyons (irb_beach_girl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this eARC.
I enjoy a Christmas romance any time of the year they are my go to weakness! This one is a cute cozy weekend read for sure. The MMC clearly learns from his mistakes in this romantic second chance read. While there isn't any spice it was still a very cute and fun story that kept me entertained.

[Barbara Lack · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very poignant Christmas story. This is about second chance and appreciating the people in your life. Hannah has a huge heart she loves helping people. Wes realizes the mistake he made 12 years ago leaving Hannah behind. This book embodies the importance and power of family. I loved the book and the series.

[Lynn Grier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a kindle copy of Cozy Little Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne and the comments are my own.

This is a warm and cozy Christmas read that will grab your heart right from the beginning of the story. So grab your coffee and snuggle up for a tender lovable book that you won’t be able to put down.

[Carrington Hodges · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute little holiday romance with some more serious themes thrown in. Maybe more serious than I bargained for but very cute nonetheless.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun Christmas book from RaeAnne Thayne!

Welcome back to Shelter Springs! Hannah Goodwin rearranges her life to temporarily take in her friend Morgan's two children so Morgan can travel out of town to have cancer treatments. Hannah does all she can to make it as comfortable for all of them including a surprise visit for her and the children to see Morgan for Morgan's birthday. Enter Wes Kenner, Hannah's former fiancee. Wes has come back to town to lend a helping hand to his grandfather. Wes is recruited to drive Hannah and the children to visit Morgan in the hospital due to the forecast of a winter storm. Pick this book up in October 2026 to read about how Hannah and Wes deal with the trip, Morgan's treatment journey and if romance returns for Hannah and Wes.