If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia: a cozy Fall Romance
If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia is a cozy fall romance new for 2025. This 1990s-set, second chance romance is filled with cozy fall vibes that will warm your heart! It’s one of my Best Rated Cozy Fall Romance to Read in 2025!
If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia: a Cozy Autumn Romance
Release Date: September 2, 2025 by Berkley. Thanks to the publisher for the advance review copy.
Michelle “Shelly” is not in the best of situations when she arrives in Copper Run, Vermont. She’s newly divorced, trying to figure out her next career move, and not thrilled about having to run the family bed and breakfast. As soon as she can, she’s determined to get out of this small town and back to her home in Seattle!
Single dad Cliff runs the local bakery and parents his two daughters, one a surly teenager and the other an exuberant grade schooler. He’s drawn to Michelle but can see that she needs her space.
If It Makes You Happy is set in 1997 and that really fits the story. This is a quieter, more introspective kind of romance. It has a slower, gentler pace and is as much about each character’s individual journey as their trajectory as a couple.
Michelle is an introvert who struggles to be chatty with her guests and I could relate!
This won’t be for readers who want tons of drama and angst, but I think the vibe of the story really fits a fall vibe: cozy and thoughtful. There are lots of fall details: baked goods, a mischievous dog, Halloween festivities and more!
If It Makes You Happy Had:
- A sweet second chance at love romance
- A cozy fall in Vermont setting
- Cute kids and pets
- A charming inn
- Baked goods and fall fun
My Cozy Fall Romance post has spice level ratings and fall vibes ratings for this book and many more, so be sure to check it out and fill your TBR with autumn vibes!
