What do you think?
Rate this book
Cold Shoulder: A Snowed In Romance
The Alaskan tundra is known for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife and unforgiving winters. One thing it isn’t known for? Romance.
Until now.
Reagan
Reagan Dryer's life can't get any worse at the moment. Recovering from a failed engagement and with a family disownment on the horizon, a surprise trip to an Alaskan National Park doesn't exactly seem like the solution to her problems. But with little choice in the matter, she disembarks to the winter wasteland, wholly unprepared for the experience and the man - she's about to face.
Rowan
America was the last place Rowan Bailey had considered when making his escape from London. But after walking in on his estranged wife's affair, he needs space to figure out his next steps and the solitude provided by the last frontier seems like the perfect place to work out his tangled thoughts. However, Rowan's quest for isolation is quickly derailed when he finds an angel-faced woman unconscious in the snow.
With a deadly storm approaching, Rowan and Reagan have no choice but to wait out the weather together in one of the park's survival cabins. Neither are looking for relationships but romance has a funny way of blooming in the most barren places.
Until now.
Reagan
Reagan Dryer's life can't get any worse at the moment. Recovering from a failed engagement and with a family disownment on the horizon, a surprise trip to an Alaskan National Park doesn't exactly seem like the solution to her problems. But with little choice in the matter, she disembarks to the winter wasteland, wholly unprepared for the experience and the man - she's about to face.
Rowan
America was the last place Rowan Bailey had considered when making his escape from London. But after walking in on his estranged wife's affair, he needs space to figure out his next steps and the solitude provided by the last frontier seems like the perfect place to work out his tangled thoughts. However, Rowan's quest for isolation is quickly derailed when he finds an angel-faced woman unconscious in the snow.
With a deadly storm approaching, Rowan and Reagan have no choice but to wait out the weather together in one of the park's survival cabins. Neither are looking for relationships but romance has a funny way of blooming in the most barren places.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
4 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 13, 2025
4⭐️ ARC Review
The book has all the tropes I love:
*Forced Proximity
*One Bed
*Golden Retriever / Black Cat Energy
*Slow Burn
I signed up for this ARC because I have ties to Alaska and I haven’t read a book before based out of that state!
The author does a great job creating a moody, wintry atmosphere that mirrors the guarded, complicated dynamic between the characters. The title fits perfectly, as this story leans hard into emotional walls, miscommunication, and the push and pull that comes with two people who are clearly affected by each other but not ready to admit it.
The characters feel grounded and relatable, especially in how they navigate vulnerability, pride, and past baggage. I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold organically rather than relying on instant gratification. The pacing works well for a slow burn, allowing the tension to simmer and the emotional payoff to feel earned.
I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR THE FLASHLIGHT…..
That said, there were a few moments where the story felt a bit drawn out, and I found myself wanting slightly more depth or resolution in certain plot threads. While it didn’t fully hit five star territory for me, it was still a solid, engaging read with plenty of heart.
Overall, this book is a great pick if you love character driven romance and emotional restraint. It’s Definitely worth the read and I’d happily pick up more from this author. ❄️📚
The book has all the tropes I love:
*Forced Proximity
*One Bed
*Golden Retriever / Black Cat Energy
*Slow Burn
I signed up for this ARC because I have ties to Alaska and I haven’t read a book before based out of that state!
The author does a great job creating a moody, wintry atmosphere that mirrors the guarded, complicated dynamic between the characters. The title fits perfectly, as this story leans hard into emotional walls, miscommunication, and the push and pull that comes with two people who are clearly affected by each other but not ready to admit it.
The characters feel grounded and relatable, especially in how they navigate vulnerability, pride, and past baggage. I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold organically rather than relying on instant gratification. The pacing works well for a slow burn, allowing the tension to simmer and the emotional payoff to feel earned.
I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR THE FLASHLIGHT…..
That said, there were a few moments where the story felt a bit drawn out, and I found myself wanting slightly more depth or resolution in certain plot threads. While it didn’t fully hit five star territory for me, it was still a solid, engaging read with plenty of heart.
Overall, this book is a great pick if you love character driven romance and emotional restraint. It’s Definitely worth the read and I’d happily pick up more from this author. ❄️📚
December 9, 2025
Thank you so much for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
WOW, this one was GOOD! From the moment I started this I was hooked on the story. The dual POV is amazing because we get both Rowan and Reagan’s back stories and what brought them together to Alaska. I will always love a good snowed in romance, but especially one where the characters are both going THROUGH IT, and still beat the odds and come together. Rowan is the absolute sweetest to Reagan, and is constantly taking care of her. Reagan has a little bit of sass, but has a sweet spot for Rowan.
I loved the way the conflict was done in this one, it wasn’t unrealistic and the communication go solve it was done SO WELL. The writing in this was done immaculately and I need MORE. I will definitely be picking up more books by this author because I loveee this one!
If you need a good snowed in romance with a side of trauma for your winter, this one is the perfect one to pick up. I recommend this to everyone!!!
WOW, this one was GOOD! From the moment I started this I was hooked on the story. The dual POV is amazing because we get both Rowan and Reagan’s back stories and what brought them together to Alaska. I will always love a good snowed in romance, but especially one where the characters are both going THROUGH IT, and still beat the odds and come together. Rowan is the absolute sweetest to Reagan, and is constantly taking care of her. Reagan has a little bit of sass, but has a sweet spot for Rowan.
I loved the way the conflict was done in this one, it wasn’t unrealistic and the communication go solve it was done SO WELL. The writing in this was done immaculately and I need MORE. I will definitely be picking up more books by this author because I loveee this one!
If you need a good snowed in romance with a side of trauma for your winter, this one is the perfect one to pick up. I recommend this to everyone!!!
December 4, 2025
✨ARC Review✨ Wow what a book 👩🏻🏫 I feel like there was just so much to unpack from the failed engagement, the childhood bullies that continued on even as adults, the strict church expectations, the affair, the cabin, and don’t even get me started on the parents! 🤯 I mean everything really, their stories were laid out so well that I was reading with my jaw practically on the ground. I mean what kind of mother says that to her child 😤 (I’m literally stuck on this subject) but aside from that I even found myself holding my breath trying not to cry when she gets into that accident, it felt so real and also like many shows I watch on repeat in Netflix but still so good that I was hooked from the moment i started reading this book!
December 24, 2025
If forced proximity/snowed in romances with steam are your cup of tea, Cold Shoulder should be your next read. Cold Shoulder features Reagan, the black sheep in a strict, highly religious, overbearing family, who’s all but disowned after her engagement falls through and she adopts a lifestyle her family doesn’t approve of. As a result, she’s shipped off to Alaska in the hope she’ll change her ways. In contrast, after a dramatic end to his marriage, Rowan Bailey is looking to get as far away from London as he can. What happens when the fates collide and Reagan and Rowan are snowed in together in a remote cabin while they await their rescue? Let’s just say the fire isn’t the only thing heating up that cabin.
I thoroughly enjoyed Katherine’s witty banter. Reagan is incredibly relatable, and the slow burn was chef’s kiss. Holy sexual tension, Batman.
I thoroughly enjoyed Katherine’s witty banter. Reagan is incredibly relatable, and the slow burn was chef’s kiss. Holy sexual tension, Batman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2025
Thank you so much Katherine Fae Belle for letting me be an ARC reader for Cold Shoulder! ❄️
This book was one of the best romances I have ever read and I truly mean that. 🩵
The novel doesn't just cover two people falling in love and a cheesy/typical romance. It discusses heavy topics such as severe family trauma and manipulation, insecurities, fear of not impressing the loved ones in your life, and emotional abuse. ❤️🩹
Rowan and Reagan escape their overbearing families, relationship problems, their feelings and terrible life's surrounding those feelings to escape to Denali, Alaska in hopes they find themselves. However, during this time there is a treacherous, deadly storm that could have killed them. Rowan finds an unconscious, Reagan in the woods and saves her by bringing her back to his Cabin. From there, the pair develops a bond like no other and in the little time they had met, they develop intense feelings for one another and want to help each other through their baggage. 🫂
As for the romance piece of it, I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed reading about both of the characters, Rowan and Reagan. There were times where I wished I could jump into the story and give them both hugs because of how much they had been through, but it was amazing how understanding they were of each other despite the circumstances they were in and how little time they had known each other. And then, even after other secrets were revealed, the pair were able to talk things out and the trust was didn't diminish. They worked through it. That is a huge green flag in a relationship. 💚
Plus, there were plenty of spice chapters as well, which added an excellent touch to the story. Both of the characters had feelings for one another the minute they began interacting with one another. They always ensured they were comfortable in what they were doing and also healthy enough, as Reagan almost died, twice. Rowan was very respectful towards Reagan and never degraded her as a woman. The spice scenes were absolutely chefs kiss and extremely well written. 💋
I also really enjoyed how even towards the end, there was intensity and drama happening. It keeps the story going and keeps the reader wanting to read. From moose attacks, to that last minute secret Reagan finds out that resulted in her almost dying again, but Rowan saved her... reassuring her that he is here to stay and he is never leaving her side. 🥺
The ending provides the lesson of hope too. That even in the worst of times, something unexpected that happens to you, is for a reason and you will survive it. Also, I loved how Reagan walked away from her abusive parents and sister. She never looked back after how they treated her. It gives that sense of empowerment and inspiration to say "You cannot and will not control me anymore." The messaging of how you can change your life, things WILL get better and your trauma will never define you. ❤️
I'm so glad I got to read this book.
5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Katherine Fae Belle!! 🫶🏻
This book was one of the best romances I have ever read and I truly mean that. 🩵
The novel doesn't just cover two people falling in love and a cheesy/typical romance. It discusses heavy topics such as severe family trauma and manipulation, insecurities, fear of not impressing the loved ones in your life, and emotional abuse. ❤️🩹
Rowan and Reagan escape their overbearing families, relationship problems, their feelings and terrible life's surrounding those feelings to escape to Denali, Alaska in hopes they find themselves. However, during this time there is a treacherous, deadly storm that could have killed them. Rowan finds an unconscious, Reagan in the woods and saves her by bringing her back to his Cabin. From there, the pair develops a bond like no other and in the little time they had met, they develop intense feelings for one another and want to help each other through their baggage. 🫂
As for the romance piece of it, I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed reading about both of the characters, Rowan and Reagan. There were times where I wished I could jump into the story and give them both hugs because of how much they had been through, but it was amazing how understanding they were of each other despite the circumstances they were in and how little time they had known each other. And then, even after other secrets were revealed, the pair were able to talk things out and the trust was didn't diminish. They worked through it. That is a huge green flag in a relationship. 💚
Plus, there were plenty of spice chapters as well, which added an excellent touch to the story. Both of the characters had feelings for one another the minute they began interacting with one another. They always ensured they were comfortable in what they were doing and also healthy enough, as Reagan almost died, twice. Rowan was very respectful towards Reagan and never degraded her as a woman. The spice scenes were absolutely chefs kiss and extremely well written. 💋
I also really enjoyed how even towards the end, there was intensity and drama happening. It keeps the story going and keeps the reader wanting to read. From moose attacks, to that last minute secret Reagan finds out that resulted in her almost dying again, but Rowan saved her... reassuring her that he is here to stay and he is never leaving her side. 🥺
The ending provides the lesson of hope too. That even in the worst of times, something unexpected that happens to you, is for a reason and you will survive it. Also, I loved how Reagan walked away from her abusive parents and sister. She never looked back after how they treated her. It gives that sense of empowerment and inspiration to say "You cannot and will not control me anymore." The messaging of how you can change your life, things WILL get better and your trauma will never define you. ❤️
I'm so glad I got to read this book.
5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Katherine Fae Belle!! 🫶🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2025
2.5 stars ⭐️Arc provided by author in exchange for review, and I’m so sorry bc I thought I would love this, but I did not click with this. I really wanted to DNF but since I was Arc reading, I did finish it (though not on time). This follows two strangers who are pretty lost in life that get stuck together in a survival cabin with nothing to do. It is not bad, it just really was not a book written for me. The vibes are cute and there are some funny moments, but I picked this up at a bad time, so I had a bad time with it unfortunately. Your mileage may vary.
While there were moments that I found endearing, I think this book as a whole was over edited (but also weirdly lacking in commas where I wanted them?!? Idk). Some scenes that were meant to be emotional felt stilted because the writing was too formal when it didn’t need to be, which always takes me out when the genre is romance. The present tense was especially distracting at times, but I normally don’t mind present tense. i did think the writing felt a little more natural as the story progressed though. There were so many elements to this story that felt completely unbelievable to the point where it was distracting, such as both the main characters backstories. I also unfortunately did not like either character and thought they had no chemistry, and Reagan makes the worst most enraging decisions ever (um, hello?!? Who moves to another country with someone they’ve known for like less than a week?!?). There were moments where after putting this down, I found it hard to pick back up because the plot felt repetitive (I mean, they are stuck in a cabin with nothing to do). I also got frustrated because of the lack of communication, which felt a little contrived to me. If I was locked in a cabin with someone, I think they’re would leave knowing WAY too much about me. The betrayal was also resolved too fast in my view but I’m tired of being a hater. Overall this was fine and I was entertained in the beginning, but I just didn’t like it.
While there were moments that I found endearing, I think this book as a whole was over edited (but also weirdly lacking in commas where I wanted them?!? Idk). Some scenes that were meant to be emotional felt stilted because the writing was too formal when it didn’t need to be, which always takes me out when the genre is romance. The present tense was especially distracting at times, but I normally don’t mind present tense. i did think the writing felt a little more natural as the story progressed though. There were so many elements to this story that felt completely unbelievable to the point where it was distracting, such as both the main characters backstories. I also unfortunately did not like either character and thought they had no chemistry, and Reagan makes the worst most enraging decisions ever (um, hello?!? Who moves to another country with someone they’ve known for like less than a week?!?). There were moments where after putting this down, I found it hard to pick back up because the plot felt repetitive (I mean, they are stuck in a cabin with nothing to do). I also got frustrated because of the lack of communication, which felt a little contrived to me. If I was locked in a cabin with someone, I think they’re would leave knowing WAY too much about me. The betrayal was also resolved too fast in my view but I’m tired of being a hater. Overall this was fine and I was entertained in the beginning, but I just didn’t like it.
December 4, 2025
ARC Review
Cold Shoulder by Katherine Belle is a cozy, snowed-in winter romance that blends humor, heart, and healing.
Reagan Dryer has spent her whole life feeling like her family’s disappointment—nothing she did was ever enough. After her fiancé dumped her, she tried to cope by sleeping around, only to have her religious family stage an intervention and send her on a “find Jesus” trip to Alaska. On her very first night, she nearly dies in the snow… but is saved by a handsome stranger.
Rowan Bailey, a paramedic, escaped to Alaska after catching his wife cheating. When he rescues Reagan, an unexpected storm leaves them snowed in together for days. They’re total opposites, yet somehow the only people who truly understand each other. As they open up, the attraction between them becomes undeniable. But can two people from different worlds take a chance on something real?
This winter romance features tropes like opposites attract, forced proximity, golden retriever MMC, and a feisty FMC. The plot is simple, engaging, and easy to follow. There’s a touch of spice, plenty of entertaining moments, and a few deeper themes—so definitely check content warnings beforehand.
I really enjoyed this story, especially watching them slowly get to know each other. And yes—the Moose incident near the end was my favorite part.
I highly recommend Cold Shoulder to readers who love a warm, slightly spicy winter romance.
Cold Shoulder by Katherine Belle is a cozy, snowed-in winter romance that blends humor, heart, and healing.
Reagan Dryer has spent her whole life feeling like her family’s disappointment—nothing she did was ever enough. After her fiancé dumped her, she tried to cope by sleeping around, only to have her religious family stage an intervention and send her on a “find Jesus” trip to Alaska. On her very first night, she nearly dies in the snow… but is saved by a handsome stranger.
Rowan Bailey, a paramedic, escaped to Alaska after catching his wife cheating. When he rescues Reagan, an unexpected storm leaves them snowed in together for days. They’re total opposites, yet somehow the only people who truly understand each other. As they open up, the attraction between them becomes undeniable. But can two people from different worlds take a chance on something real?
This winter romance features tropes like opposites attract, forced proximity, golden retriever MMC, and a feisty FMC. The plot is simple, engaging, and easy to follow. There’s a touch of spice, plenty of entertaining moments, and a few deeper themes—so definitely check content warnings beforehand.
I really enjoyed this story, especially watching them slowly get to know each other. And yes—the Moose incident near the end was my favorite part.
I highly recommend Cold Shoulder to readers who love a warm, slightly spicy winter romance.
December 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! It was SO CUTE!!! For those readers looking for a cute Hallmark snowy holiday romance, this is not it, it is SO MUCH MORE!
It was extremely well written & the author gave us such vivid descriptions of everything Reagan & Rowen were encountering. Katherine Bell set the scene so beautifully! It had a non-fiction feel to it because the descriptions of backpacking in the snowy mountains, moose encounters & the little cabin were so spot on.
Before they even met, you couldn’t help but root for both Reagan & Rowan individually. After they met, it was the perfect wintery holiday scene with one of my most favorite tropes, close proximity! Their banter had me laughing out loud & their deeper talks about their families and situations pulled on my heart strings. I just LOVED the way he took care of her! And the spice… oooweeee!!!
Thank you Katherine Bell for the advanced copy. I hope that this will not be the last we see of Reagan & Rowan!
December 19, 2025
I really enjoyes this book! It was cozy, funny and emotional. Set against a snowy Alaskan backdrop, Cold Shoulder delivers forced proximity done right: two strangers, one very inconvenient situation and a whole lot of emotional thawing.
What I loved most was the balance. The story has humor that genuinely made me laugh, tender moments that hit emotionally and enough spice to keep things interesting without overpowering the romance. The setting adds so much atmosphere too! You can feel the cold outside while everything between these two slowly heats up.
If you’re a fan of forced proximity, cozy winter settings, emotionally grounded characters and romances that focus on connection as much as chemistry, this one is absolutely worth the read. Cold Shoulder is comforting, heartfelt, and exactly the kind of book that makes you want to curl up and read from beginning to end!
What I loved most was the balance. The story has humor that genuinely made me laugh, tender moments that hit emotionally and enough spice to keep things interesting without overpowering the romance. The setting adds so much atmosphere too! You can feel the cold outside while everything between these two slowly heats up.
If you’re a fan of forced proximity, cozy winter settings, emotionally grounded characters and romances that focus on connection as much as chemistry, this one is absolutely worth the read. Cold Shoulder is comforting, heartfelt, and exactly the kind of book that makes you want to curl up and read from beginning to end!
December 12, 2025
There's nothing wrong with this book... But it didn't draw me in.
The setting is fine, and I even find the protagonists' past and background interesting, but I didn't feel any connection or chemistry between the two protagonists.
The writing is precise, and I can't say it was slow or repetitive or anything, but like before, it failed to suck me into the story.
thank you the author for the eARC 💚
The setting is fine, and I even find the protagonists' past and background interesting, but I didn't feel any connection or chemistry between the two protagonists.
The writing is precise, and I can't say it was slow or repetitive or anything, but like before, it failed to suck me into the story.
thank you the author for the eARC 💚
December 6, 2025
Thank you to Katherine Fae Bell for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
This story was really good. I loved the entire plot, and the way the author handled some of the deeper themes (definitely check the content warnings). The character development was so well done, especially how their relationship grew throughout the story. And that ending? I absolutely loved it!
This story was really good. I loved the entire plot, and the way the author handled some of the deeper themes (definitely check the content warnings). The character development was so well done, especially how their relationship grew throughout the story. And that ending? I absolutely loved it!
December 7, 2025
❄️ARC Review❄️
Ever wanted to read a spicy hallmark with a touch of survivalism? Well here you go! This book was such a fun read capturing the whirlwind (dare I say snow storm) of a romance between Reagan and Rowan. I mean, who wouldn’t fall in love with their hunky rescuer they are confined to a tiny cabin with in the middle of Alaska during a massive storm?
4.5⭐️
Ever wanted to read a spicy hallmark with a touch of survivalism? Well here you go! This book was such a fun read capturing the whirlwind (dare I say snow storm) of a romance between Reagan and Rowan. I mean, who wouldn’t fall in love with their hunky rescuer they are confined to a tiny cabin with in the middle of Alaska during a massive storm?
4.5⭐️
December 22, 2025
What a great read! ARC review a little late because life happens.
This book had me hooked and everytime I had to put it down, I couldn’t wait to get back to it. The plot, the twist, the love, it’s all there!
This book had me hooked and everytime I had to put it down, I couldn’t wait to get back to it. The plot, the twist, the love, it’s all there!
December 16, 2025
What a great read! Has a great build up and little surprises along the way. The story is full of hope and I am hoping for more!!!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews