Can you blur the line between friendship and love without losing it all?
Mazie
Some may consider my small town of Juniper Grove boring. But that’s completely fine with me. The tragedy that befell my family here is enough to last a lifetime.
It’s also why I’ve never left, and never even dreamed of it. The anxiety I’ve always known only tripled, after my parents died. I only stayed to raise my sisters; to make sure they graduated from high school in an otherwise upside down world.
We opened a business together, and thus Juniper Grove remains home. It helps that safety, security, and comfort can be found in my best friend, who also stayed…for me.
Zach puts me at ease. He’s been my best friend for years. While I’ve always found him attractive, I know we can’t be more than platonic.
But the moment his lips touch mine, everything I thought I knew for certain, turns to ash.
Zach
Being a cop in a small town isn’t always exciting. But that’s not why I took the job.
When an unprecedented crime forever altered my second family, I realized there was no better place to protect than my own hometown.
Plus, Mazie’s here. She may have started as my best friend’s little sister, but she’s become so much more– including the person who knows me best.
The problem is that she only sees me as her friend. If I never shoot my shot, how will I know if we can be more?
The second I press my mouth to hers, everything changes. I can never go back to not kissing her.Mazie is an adult romance novel, intended for audiences 18 and older. Content warnings include strong language, mature situations, explicit sexual scenes, alcohol use, mentions of death, grieving, a college campus hostage situation, a shooting, and mental health.
Shayna Astor is a native New Yorker, currently residing upstate with her husband and two children. Getting all four seasons, her favorite are the cool, crisp days of fall.
When Shayna isn't writing, she can be found reading, spending time with her kids, or playing video games with her husband. Being an avid coffee drinker, she can almost always be found with a cup of coffee in her hands.
Wow I think this has become my favourite out of the whole series so far! I love a good friends to lovers romance and this one was done really well!
I loved Zach. He was so open and honest and caring. He never once tried to change Mazie and her idiosyncrasies, he just accepted them, and that was exactly what Mazie needed in her life. I liked that he helped her step out of her comfort zone in tiny increments. Mazie had been through so much and to have that unwavering support was perfect.
The spice was definitely spicing in this book! We got a little bit rougher, a little bit kinkier and a dash of dirty talk but it didn’t take away from the plot or romance of the story.
Speaking of romance, I appreciated that their romance was homey and sweet. They didn’t need grand gestures or big dates, both of them were quite happy to be snuggly little homebodies and weren’t ashamed of it. As a homebody myself, I kinda loved that because it’s realistic.
The third act conflict was wild. I was not expecting quite a wild twist like that! The tension and angst that resulted from it was inevitable with Mazie’s history but I’m glad it was resolved quickly.
Overall this was a very cosy, sweet read full of love and warm fuzzy vibes. The epilogues were super cute but holy heck am I intrigued for Eli’s story now! He’s clearly been through the ringer and I can’t wait to meet the woman who helps heal him, whoever that may be!
I found this one being advertised on Tick Tock and wanted to read it first but it was recommended to read them in order.
There are small story continuations from the first two books so I TOTALLY get why.
This one is friends to lovers to partners in life.
Zach was friends with Eli first and then fell into a friendship with Mazie that grew and deepened to the point of them considering each other best friends.
Watching them figure out how to be more than friends was really fun! This trope is one of my favorites!
Zach is such a cinnamon roll hero too! Gah! I feel all warm and fuzzy inside after finishing this one!! 🥰🥰🥰
This is book 3 in the Baker Sibling series and we focus on Mazie the woman who gave up what she wanted to become the mum of the family, to care and provide for her sisters, but the problem with this is that she has let life pass her by. Her sisters are married and Olivia now has a child, her sisters men adore them and what does she have..... Well she has her family, her best friend Zach and she helps with the business, well mostly from the comfort of her own home.
Mazie is a perfect book for this time of year as is a sweet friends to lovers story, that is just heart warming and makes you go awwwww for Mazie, as this girl deserves some love and happiness. Shayna has such a way of writing a story that pulls you in into the inner depths of the pages, like you are living the story as you read it. Our main characters relationship is not rushed and flows and develops at a gradually pace that we do not lose who they are – what I mean by this is Shayna builds on what we already know of Mazie and strengthens our understanding of her and her quirks and insecurities – she is a real person, that I personally feel is so easy to relate to.
Zach is a man of hidden desires and I love how we don’t really get the full him until we are more into the book. We think he is the sweet protective police man who happens to be her BFF and also her brothers, but we learn he has a darker side that he is only to willing to show Mazie, but with still refrains with her as he her well being is so important to him – but once she gives the green light then all bets are off. Zach is such a caring character who is perfect for Mazie as he has been her bff for years and fully appreciates her and understands her tendencies.
We also are lead nicely into anticipating the next book in the series and that is Eli, I honestly cant wait to see were his story takes us.
Mazie is the third book in The Baker Sibling series. Though each book in the series is its own story, there is a lot overlap and previous stories discussed in each book. I advise reading the series in order.
Even though each book in this series embraces different romance tropes, Astor definitely stays true to her writing style throughout the entire series. Mazie is a friends to lovers romance, that like the other books in the series takes place in a small town, has strong family ties, and encompasses the importance of mental health. The overall plot has a cozy romance feel with a little suspense and a little amount of spice. The majority of the time I felt like I was sitting in the cafe eavesdropping on the gossip of a small town, not a lot of depth to the story line, glad I was already familiar with the characters involved from past books. The female main character, Mazie, is definitely my second favorite Baker sibling. She is outwardly strong and protective, while still dealing with her own mental and emotional health issues. I felt that she is the most relatable out of the sisters. Her complexity is nicely demonstrated throughout this book. Zach had a lot more potential than I felt he received in this book. I liked that we got a glimpse towards the end of the book of the strong personality of Zach, I just wished we could have seen more of it throughout the entire book. Overall I felt this was an enjoyable and light read that did a good job answering the questions about Mazie that the first two books left us hanging with. It also does a really good job transitioning and readying the reader for the final book of the series.
Ah Mazie. The seemingly stuck up, rude, controlling sister. If you were like me you were just itching to get your hands on Mazie to see what exactly it was that made her the way she was. I mean, of course, as we learned with Olivia and Alina's stories (at least I hope you've done yourself the favor of reading them!) , but there had to be more to it right?
After reading and realizing Mazie never got the opportunity to properly mourn it is no wonder Mazie is not only nervous, scared, and suspicious of strangers, but skeptical of well-known people who may have gone about things the absolute wrong way when dealing with one of her beloved sisters (cough, Cam, cough).
Now, I've talked a lot about Mazie but haven't said anything about Zach. Zach is the *chef's kiss* perfect match for Mazie. Their relationship smoothly went from friendship to lovers and it was a wonderful transition. Zach not only understands all of Mazie's quirks and idiosyncrasies, but he also DOES NOT TRY TO CHANGE HER. Does he try to do things to make her feel more comfortable, at ease, and remove some of the burden from her? Yes, and that's what the one for you should do. Not change, but alleviate and assist.
Now... I cannot wait to read about the eldest and only male Baker out there. Eli's behavior in Mazie's book certainly has me intrigued.
The Baker family is at it again. This is the oldest sister's story and it did not disappoint. I was very curious about Mazie through the mention of her in the other 2 books and now we get to know her. This was a great story and true portrayal of anxiety and agoraphobia. Triggered by their parents death years ago, Mazie and Eli (the oldest sibling) were forced to take on the parenting role of their two younger sisters.
Along for the ride was Zach. Now a police officer, Zach is Eli and Mazie's best friend. But Mazie and Zach have always had something special between one another. They finally decided to take their relationship to the next level. And I was there for it!! Zach with his dirty mouth and pure pleasure. It was so good.
When tragedy strikes and Zach and Eli find themselves in a dangerous situation, friendship and brotherhood take a stand. The family draws closer together as they realize another life could be taken from them.
Watching the sisters grow and support each other is so heartwarming, and Eli and Zach coming into the fold is just as wonderful. I really love this family and can't wait to round it out with Elijah!!
🥺 Anxiety and agoraphobia representation ⚰️ Grief, death and dying talked about 👮♂️Police and shooting/hostage situation 💍Found family and engagements/weddings
Make sure you read the trigger and content warnings for this one as some subject matter could be triggering.
Mazie has been 'mom' for a long time, always putting herself on the back burner, not dealing with her own loss and trauma. It has led to a very sheltering life at home, high anxiety, and in some ways, not living. Zach has been her best friend forever, Friday movie nights when he's off, their favorite snacks, and the realization one drunken night that he wants more with Mazie.
Zach and Mazie don't get the clue that everyone has seen forever, but it was great to see their love story evolve. As someone who deals with anxiety, not quite as bad as Mazie, I do get sometimes you just want to shut yourself in and forget the world exists. I feel Shayna handles this subject and others that make this book what it is properly and with grace.
I have been awaiting this one for awhile, and soon, our Baker siblings' stories will all be told. Some steam for sure, but not too much, and overdone. A good small hometown family, their friends, and a situation that could shatter all they have and love. Great ending!
This book is the third in a four sibling series. Mazie was a great addition to the series. As always it was great seeing Olivia and Alina’s stories continue in the background as we learn about Mazie and her story. As well as getting a bit more insight on Eli.
As for Mazie she in the past two stories she comes across very strong and motherly. In her story we see a much more complex and different side of her. We see that she struggles with OCD in the sense of checking to make sure everything is locked numerous times. She sticks to her routine and doesn’t tend to go out in public. She hides herself in a sense from her siblings.
Zach is Maizie best friend and has been in love with her for a while but hasn’t told her.
You see how Mazie and Zach’s relationship evolves and turns into more and where they go from there.
This was a quick read, and a great story! It’s also filled with issues you could deal with in real life. You see Mazie and Zach’s relationship and see Mazie dealing with her issues. I really liked this story.
We are on the third book of this series with our oldest Baker sister, Mazie. I wasn't exactly excited to get to know her because I found her very unlikable in the previous books—controlling, nosy, and overbearing. I just wanted to yell at her to mind her own business, but trust the process!
Mazie was wonderful; I loved seeing life from her point of view; I felt for her; I understood her; I was rooting for her, and now I love her. She truly has a heart of gold, and I want to protect her at all costs.
Friends to lovers is one of my very favorite tropes, and Shayna did it justice with Mazie and Zach. Zach was sweet and swoony, a protector not only professionally but emotionally too—exactly what she needed. Also, their chemistry was so hot—I love the way he made her give up control in the bedroom.
As always, please check the trigger warnings before you go in!
Loved Mazies story!!! These siblings have been thru so much with loosing their parents at a very tough age, Mazie being a little older had to step up with their brother and basically help raise they 2 others. With that being said she couldn't ever fully process everything and struggles with some mental health problems. She's got a huge heart but doesn't always know how to show her love, there's many daily things that she would prefer not to do due to having to be around a lot of people. Zach, a cop, her best friend and also her brothers best friend finally realizes they are perfect for each other. Which honestly they are! 😍
I loved their story, loved the mental health awareness, loved the major event that happens (if you have read any of the other 3 books you know Shayna is going to add a dramatic twist😂)
Loved book 3, and can't wait for Eli's book that is coming soon!
A sweet, spicy romance between friends turned lovers, featuring a dual POV, and a HEA. Things I’m loving about this series is no forced drama. The story is true to its main characters. Mazie is still dealing with the loss of her parents and the change of going from a sibling to a parental unit. Mazie has come off as a mother hen who wants what’s best for her siblings while at times being overprotective. The softer side of her comes out with her bff Zach in this book. We see the vulnerable side of her, the struggles she deals with regarding her anxiety, and the grief she hasn’t faced. Zach is book boyfriend material. He’s dependable, he’s brick wall of muscle, and he’s full steam ahead regarding Mazie. This is a story of two friends slow to realize over time they’ve become exactly one another’s HEA. Expect a lot of spice once the mutual feelings come out. Now all we have to do is await older brother Eli’s story.
“Mazie” is a sweet friends to lovers book. Mazie is a woman who had to grow up really quick after her parents died. Her parents’s death left mental scars and debilitating anxiety. Almost everyone labels her as “a lot to handle”, but Zach always defends her, which I find one of the most heartwarming things in this book. Zach has loved Mazie for a long time and one day, he and Mazie decide to act on their attraction. Zach is a police officer and is overall a protective, understanding, and sweet character. With the trauma of her parent’s death and the danger that comes with Zach being a police officer, can Mazie handle a relationship with Zach? The spice is a 3.5/5. This book is a great read for the holidays. It’s sweet and heartwarming.
Ahhhh I just loved this book so much!!!😍😍 Mazie and Zach were just so meant to be! I love them so much, I honestly can’t explain how much I adore them and their relationship!
The Baker series is absolutely amazing and I’ve enjoyed all three books so far! I’ve been super lucky to have ARC’s of every one, all thanks to Shayna! But she’s only gone and done it again and smashed this book!🤩 keep your eyes peeled, it releases on the 28th November!!😁
I thoroughly enjoyed the read, it was spicy, romantic, sad, it was just perfect! Thank you Shayna for having me on your ARC team, I am forever grateful💗
Mazie's story is a great addition to the Baker siblings series and it was great to get into the mind of the oldest sister. I loved the dual point of view between Mazie and Zach. There is plenty of spice in this best-friends-to-lovers story and experiencing their relationship blossom was sweet. Zach is such a great guy, just gets Mazie and of course all the Baker siblings are supportive of each other. Quite emotional in parts. We get some more insights into Eli in this one given both Mazie and Zach's close relationship with him and I can't wait for him to get his happy ever after in the next book.
The Baker siblings are an absolute delight! I simply adore their dynamic and the closeness that has developed between the siblings. Zach has harbored deep feelings for Mazie for quite some time, yet she's kept him in the friend zone. Mazie, still grappling with the loss of her parents, has not had many relationships. As Zach and Mazie finally admit thier feelings for one another, we witness the evolution of their relationship. But as they are starting thier story, a tragic event threatens to shatter what they've begun. The book captivates you from the very beginning, and its charm will undoubtedly enchant you until the final page!
“Mazie” is the third book in Shayna Astor’s The Baker Siblings series, and it’s Zack and Mazie’s best friends to lovers romance. I thought Zack and Mazie’s relationship was a long time coming, and even though they had to adjust to the shift from friends to something more, I really did think they were destined to be together. Mazie’s anxiety and fears broke my heart, but I was so proud of her for trying to work through it all. I also loved how protective Zack was when it came to Mazie, and how he loved her for her quirks. There was definitely some angst involved, but I was happy with how their story ended. All in all, I really enjoyed this read, and I can’t wait for Eli’s book!
Mazie and Zach have been friends since they were kids, and he was there for her for everything. They both have feelings for each other but don’t want to ruin the friendship. One night changes everything when Zach finally kisses Mazie. They are trying to navigate going from friends to lovers. Can they be together? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. I absolutely love Mazie and Zach and their character development. Great supporting characters. This book has all the feels sarcasm, angst, and the spice is good. I love this family and world.
Mazie is still struggling with the loss of her parents. Her best friend, Zach has always been a massive support but he wants to be more. During one of their movie nights their relationship changes. It is something that Mazie's siblings have always known was coming. When cop Zach puts himself in danger to help his friend and Mazie's brother, Eli, Mazie is not sure she can cope with the risk. This is a truly emotional read with some great fun moments too. Really looking forward to Eli's story next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mazie is my favorite Baker Siblings book so far. The character development for Mazie is a great follow up to the snippets of her personality we see in the first two books in the series; I really enjoyed and connected with Mazie's character. Mixing the brother's best friend and friends to lovers tropes was really well done. The book tells a great story of what happens when best friends discover they have feelings for each other and how it affects the friendship. Mazie was a great read and easily worth five stars!
So far this is my favorite Baker sibling in this series. She a tough cookie with a soft inside. She puts her feelings last to take care of siblings. But when love comes knocking at the door, will she answer it? This story almost took me out because it was so emotionally charged. This series will draw you in that you become part of the family. It’s so relatable and honest. I hate that there’s only one sibling left for the last book. I’ve grown so attached to this series. If you haven’t read this author yet, hurry and get started now.
For anyone who's been wondering throughout this series why Mazie is such a hard ass, your answers will come in this latest installment. You will be surprised to find out, she's not as tough as the exterior she portrays! The many levels of her will be revealed and her best friend Zach will be the sweetest thing to peel through her tough shell. Who doesn't love a friends to lovers romance! Can't wait to read about the next Baker Sibling!
Enjoyed this book so much, my favourite one was book two but I feel in love with maize, she grew up over night to look after her youngest siblings, in this book we get to meet the real woman, the traumatised one that nobody understands most of the time, she is strong but needs a little love to have faith in herself and start enjoying life again. Zach has always been there for her as her best friend, but his feelings get the better of him and he gets brave to show them finally.
This is an amazing read that once you start reading you will not be able to put down. It moves along at a pace that is perfect for the flow of this story which makes for an easy and enjoyable read. The characters are amazing and no matter what happens you cannot help but love them. This book is a must read that needs to be at the top of your list, there is no doubt about it. It is a must read.
Book 3 in the series. I really enjoyed the duel POV with Mazie and Zach. Mazie and Zach 100% were ment to be together! Friendship that turned into lovers. Definitely not a romance story without spice. The romance was very realistic, didn't need to do big dates or spend alot of money on dates- perfectly find with being at home, being snuggled up watching movies. Can't wait to read about Elis story next!
Who doesn’t love a book about friendship and love . Mazie and Zach you guys have to read their story . I know for me I had my emotions running high with this . I laughed , cried , it was full of it all. This is a must read you guys! It’s such a good book! Zach has every girl wishing for someone like him 🖤🖤🖤
Mazie finally gets her story. She has been the protector and mother figure for her sister's. Now they are married and Zach her best friend makes a bold move that alters their friendship. Mazie is a complex character who is constantly in her head. Zach is a good guy with a naughty side. He and Mazie navigate from friends to lovers. Now on to Eli the Bakr brother, time for his HEA.
This book centers around the eldest female sibling, Mazie and her long time friend Zach. Zach grew up right alongside the Baker kids and felt the loss of their parents deeply. Now a police officer he is Mazie’s rock. The two have deep feelings for each other and they eventually cross into more than friendship. I enjoyed this book because it showed how Mazie worked through the trauma of her parents deaths and how Zach has stood by her through it all.
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Mazie and Zack! I've enjoyed all the books in this series so far but this one is my favorite. It's so rewarding to see a character who has put so much into herself face the things that have held her back. I can't wait to see what's next for the Baker siblings!
I love this series so much! The depth to these stories is truly amazing. Trauma and loss is very real, how we cope and heal, and it is written perfectly in this book, and the whole series. This is a beautiful story of two lifelong friends who….uhuh I’m saying nothing. You’ll have to read it 🥰 Can’t wait for Eli’s story!
I liked the 2nd book better, but this one was still great! Grown up best friends that both want more. They do not know how the other feels and they are terrified of losing each other. Mazie is the oldest sister and of course has demons of her own due to her parents death. Like the past two, this book was well written and held my attention the entire way. One more to go!