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Cupid and Cupcakes
Emma Woods has zero interest in dating—but matchmaking? That’s another story.
When she stumbles upon a singles event for the fifty-plus crowd, she hatches the perfect find her overworked mom a love story worthy of a classic movie.
Armed with a fake profile, a questionable disguise, and a whole lot of determination, Emma is set on pulling off the perfect setup.
But between dodging security, battling her mom’s stubbornness, and dealing with one very grumpy (and annoyingly handsome) venue owner, things get… complicated.
Grant keeps showing up, ruining her plans—and making her heart race in ways she wasn’t prepared for.
Cupid & Cupcakes is a sweet rom-com filled with meddling, mistaken identities, and swoon-worthy moments, proving that sometimes love finds you when you least expect it.
When she stumbles upon a singles event for the fifty-plus crowd, she hatches the perfect find her overworked mom a love story worthy of a classic movie.
Armed with a fake profile, a questionable disguise, and a whole lot of determination, Emma is set on pulling off the perfect setup.
But between dodging security, battling her mom’s stubbornness, and dealing with one very grumpy (and annoyingly handsome) venue owner, things get… complicated.
Grant keeps showing up, ruining her plans—and making her heart race in ways she wasn’t prepared for.
Cupid & Cupcakes is a sweet rom-com filled with meddling, mistaken identities, and swoon-worthy moments, proving that sometimes love finds you when you least expect it.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2025
36 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Kiri Patterson
4 books50 followersI grew up in small town Idaho and communicate through movie quotes and song lyrics.
I taught myself to read before Kindergarten and have loved reading ever since. Especially books with lots of kisses, sweet love stories, strong characters, and lots of witty banter—ingredients I want in all my stories.
I try to survive on chai tea, Dr. Pepper, and dark chocolate. Other guilty pleasures include marathons of the Great British Baking Show, BBC period dramas, Harry Potter anything, and French Fries. I get my steps in with Target aisles, getting lost in bookstores, and walking in the sunshine.
I live in Star, Idaho, with my hot husband, four rapidly growing children, a strong belief in happily ever afters, and pink laptop—a nod to my belief that everything is just a little better in pink.
I taught myself to read before Kindergarten and have loved reading ever since. Especially books with lots of kisses, sweet love stories, strong characters, and lots of witty banter—ingredients I want in all my stories.
I try to survive on chai tea, Dr. Pepper, and dark chocolate. Other guilty pleasures include marathons of the Great British Baking Show, BBC period dramas, Harry Potter anything, and French Fries. I get my steps in with Target aisles, getting lost in bookstores, and walking in the sunshine.
I live in Star, Idaho, with my hot husband, four rapidly growing children, a strong belief in happily ever afters, and pink laptop—a nod to my belief that everything is just a little better in pink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 5, 2025
Okay, this book was freaking adorable! I saw it on Bookstagram and am so happy I downloaded it. It was the perfect story for my weekend.
Emma is done with dating and is trying her hand at playing Cupid! She’s currently trying to help her mom find love by signing her up for and attending some Kismet Silvers events. However, she doesn’t expect to meet Mr. Muscles at the events and then to find herself her very own Grant, not Carey Grant, but even better!
Emma was so cute. I loved her eccentric style and love of the 50’s and chocolate cupcakes! And Grant was so grumpy and broody at the beginning of the story, so it was fun to see him soften towards Emma and to see his true self.
If you’re looking for a sweet and fun novella, grab this one!
Emma is done with dating and is trying her hand at playing Cupid! She’s currently trying to help her mom find love by signing her up for and attending some Kismet Silvers events. However, she doesn’t expect to meet Mr. Muscles at the events and then to find herself her very own Grant, not Carey Grant, but even better!
Emma was so cute. I loved her eccentric style and love of the 50’s and chocolate cupcakes! And Grant was so grumpy and broody at the beginning of the story, so it was fun to see him soften towards Emma and to see his true self.
If you’re looking for a sweet and fun novella, grab this one!
March 20, 2025
Well this was super cute!! I loved it! Being a lover of the 1950s myself, I loved that the main character Emma was obsessed with the 50s and old movies. Also loved that she worked at a thrift store. She meets Grant while trying to play Cupid for her mom at a singles over fifty event. Grant is the organizer. Their first few interactions together were hilarious! I loved it! I loved Grant and Emma together. I also thought it so sweet how Emma’s mom supported her and got a little romance herself. Overall, I thought this a very fun and cute story. I recommend especially if you love the 50s!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: mild innuendo, kisses, mild makeout
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: mild innuendo, kisses, mild makeout
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 18, 2026
3.5/5 stars. Cute novella with many fun elements. Now I want to watch a Cary Grant movie and Roman Holiday. Insta love is not usually my thing, I enjoyed this for the most part though.
April 21, 2025
This is such a cute story! It captures the butterflies of meeting and starting to date as well as the nerves of wondering if everything will work out. The main character Emma Woods is adorable and easy to root for throughout the book. I loved her vintage style and obsession with cupcakes and classic Cary Grant films. Once I learned that her name and match-making schemes were inspired by Jane Austen’s Emma Woodhouse, I knew I had to read this book.
⭐️Why Not Five Stars?
I simply wanted more! This story is a quick novella that is only 136 pages. I would have loved to have had more plot and character development between Emma and her Beau.
But I’m absolutely planning on reading any new books Kiri Patterson writes!
A Quick Overview:
🧁Matchmaking FMC
🎬Old Hollywood Vibes
❤️Strangers to Lovers
😅Meet Cute Disaster
🎥Movie Marathons
💋Swoony First Kiss
Thank you @authorkiripatterson for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
⚠️Content Consideration:
•Spice Level: Kissing/Making Out
•Profanity: None
🎤Favorite Quote:
“Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
⭐️Why Not Five Stars?
I simply wanted more! This story is a quick novella that is only 136 pages. I would have loved to have had more plot and character development between Emma and her Beau.
But I’m absolutely planning on reading any new books Kiri Patterson writes!
A Quick Overview:
🧁Matchmaking FMC
🎬Old Hollywood Vibes
❤️Strangers to Lovers
😅Meet Cute Disaster
🎥Movie Marathons
💋Swoony First Kiss
Thank you @authorkiripatterson for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
⚠️Content Consideration:
•Spice Level: Kissing/Making Out
•Profanity: None
🎤Favorite Quote:
“Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
April 9, 2025
This was a super cute novella!
Emma has a job she loves working in a thrift shop. She’s had past relationships that started out well, but didn’t get too far. Because of that she has no desire to date, but would rather play Cupid for others.
She decides to play Cupid for her mom and secretly signs her up on a dating site for 50+ people. While trying to help her mom find a match at a group activity, she meets Grant, the event organizer. After a rocky start, she can tell he’s different than other guys, and she just might have to rethink her plans about not dating.
I adored Emma and her obsession with the 50s, Cary Grant, and old movies. Her job at the thrift store was so perfect for her! I also loved the curvy rep.
Grant and Emma were really cute together. I loved their chemistry and the fun dates they had together. It was so nice that her mom also found a great match.
If you’re looking for a fun, sweet and quick romance, this is a great choice!
I received a complementary copy, but a positive review was not required.
Emma has a job she loves working in a thrift shop. She’s had past relationships that started out well, but didn’t get too far. Because of that she has no desire to date, but would rather play Cupid for others.
She decides to play Cupid for her mom and secretly signs her up on a dating site for 50+ people. While trying to help her mom find a match at a group activity, she meets Grant, the event organizer. After a rocky start, she can tell he’s different than other guys, and she just might have to rethink her plans about not dating.
I adored Emma and her obsession with the 50s, Cary Grant, and old movies. Her job at the thrift store was so perfect for her! I also loved the curvy rep.
Grant and Emma were really cute together. I loved their chemistry and the fun dates they had together. It was so nice that her mom also found a great match.
If you’re looking for a fun, sweet and quick romance, this is a great choice!
I received a complementary copy, but a positive review was not required.
April 2, 2025
I loved the concept of Emma acting as her mom’s matchmaker and stumbling into love herself by chance — or fate? The entirety of the book was sweet and thoughtful. I found myself rooting for Emma and Grant’s relationship and the little nods to 1950s Hollywood were charming and fun. It was a comforting read😊🎥
April 28, 2025
So cute!
Cupid and Cupcakes was seriously so cute! Emma just wants someone to love her for her, and Grant is so sweet, treating Emma with kindness, respect, and adoration. This was a fun, clean romance with swoony kisses and a HEA. This is my first book by Kiri Patterson, and I'm looking forward to reading more.
Cupid and Cupcakes was seriously so cute! Emma just wants someone to love her for her, and Grant is so sweet, treating Emma with kindness, respect, and adoration. This was a fun, clean romance with swoony kisses and a HEA. This is my first book by Kiri Patterson, and I'm looking forward to reading more.
April 7, 2025
"Some very good things can come from staying home in my pj’s and ordering takeout."
What an absolutely adorable novella. Emma was spunky and delightful and realistically flawed in lovely ways and you root for her to find her own Cary Grant.
Read this book and fall in love with her love story if you like Italian food, businesses, cupcakes and meddling women.
What an absolutely adorable novella. Emma was spunky and delightful and realistically flawed in lovely ways and you root for her to find her own Cary Grant.
Read this book and fall in love with her love story if you like Italian food, businesses, cupcakes and meddling women.
March 24, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This sweet little novella is the perfect treat! 136 pages packed full of chaos and romance. Trying to play matchmaker to your very own mother - what could possibly go wrong? LOL
Emma Wood is quite an endearing character with a unique passion for all things vintage. From her attire to her love of Cary Grant movies, her heart yearns for days gone by when men were seemingly more sophisticated and respectful. At this point, Emma has given up on love for herself. Although still in love with the idea of love, she keeps her focus on helping others in finding their happily ever after. Matchmaker Emma to the rescue and this time, she has the idea to find her own mom someone special.
Cue all the laughs and giggles when Emma tries sneaking into a singles convention catering to those over the age of fifty! Emma figures a little disguise and makeup to make her look older will allow her to usher her mom in to find Mr. Right. Security winds up being a little tighter (and cuter) than Emma was anticipating when she winds up face to face with Grant.
Although Grant is seemingly a roadblock to fulfilling her matchmaking duties, he may very well be the key to her own happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This sweet little novella is the perfect treat! 136 pages packed full of chaos and romance. Trying to play matchmaker to your very own mother - what could possibly go wrong? LOL
Emma Wood is quite an endearing character with a unique passion for all things vintage. From her attire to her love of Cary Grant movies, her heart yearns for days gone by when men were seemingly more sophisticated and respectful. At this point, Emma has given up on love for herself. Although still in love with the idea of love, she keeps her focus on helping others in finding their happily ever after. Matchmaker Emma to the rescue and this time, she has the idea to find her own mom someone special.
Cue all the laughs and giggles when Emma tries sneaking into a singles convention catering to those over the age of fifty! Emma figures a little disguise and makeup to make her look older will allow her to usher her mom in to find Mr. Right. Security winds up being a little tighter (and cuter) than Emma was anticipating when she winds up face to face with Grant.
Although Grant is seemingly a roadblock to fulfilling her matchmaking duties, he may very well be the key to her own happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
April 2, 2025
A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E
-Matchmaking
-Sweet romance
-50's, vintage themes
-Be yourself
-Business owners
-Opposites attract
-Enemies to more
-Meet cute disaster
-Novella
-Emma retelling
I’m not sure I’ve read a meet cute where the girl gets thrown out of an event but I loved it. This girl is trying to help her mother find love and she isn’t always playing by the rules. Funny, sweet, and so unique.
CW: sweet kisses
-Matchmaking
-Sweet romance
-50's, vintage themes
-Be yourself
-Business owners
-Opposites attract
-Enemies to more
-Meet cute disaster
-Novella
-Emma retelling
I’m not sure I’ve read a meet cute where the girl gets thrown out of an event but I loved it. This girl is trying to help her mother find love and she isn’t always playing by the rules. Funny, sweet, and so unique.
CW: sweet kisses
March 17, 2025
•𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰•
{𝑪𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒖𝒑𝒄𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔}
“𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚐𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚜, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝚝𝚘 𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚒𝚣𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚛𝚢 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗, 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚢 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎.”
🧁 Release Date: April 9, 2025 🧁
.
.
.
Y’all!! This was SUCH a cute novella 😍 Emma’s ‘50s vibes were immaculate, and I immediately fell in love with her matchmaking ways! This is the perfect story if you’re looking for a quick read that will have you laughing and swooning at regular intervals 😁
Emma was content to be single and stay home watching old Cary Grant movies, but she loved to play Cupid for her friends with their love lives. In return, her friends and family were certain that Emma was the one who was in need of a man.
In a comical turn of events, Emma decides it’s time to set her mom up and enrolls her in the Kismet Silvers event for people, fifty and older, looking for love. She, of course, does not consult her mom about her plans before she puts them into action 🤭 What transpires involves an upset mother; a run-in with a very handsome, muscular man; and an old man asking to see Emma’s bare feet. Will Emma succeed in setting up her mother, or will fate set Emma up with the man of her dreams?
Read it for:
🧁 ‘50s vibes
🧁 Fun mother/daughter duo
🧁 Modern rendition of Jane Austen’s Emma
🧁 Age Gap + Opposites Attract
🧁 Matchmaking
.
.
.
Thank you, Kiri, for allowing me to read an arc of your new novella 🩷
{𝑪𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒖𝒑𝒄𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔}
“𝙼𝚊𝚢𝚋𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚐𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚎𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚜, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝚝𝚘 𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚒𝚣𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚛𝚢 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗, 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚢 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎.”
🧁 Release Date: April 9, 2025 🧁
.
.
.
Y’all!! This was SUCH a cute novella 😍 Emma’s ‘50s vibes were immaculate, and I immediately fell in love with her matchmaking ways! This is the perfect story if you’re looking for a quick read that will have you laughing and swooning at regular intervals 😁
Emma was content to be single and stay home watching old Cary Grant movies, but she loved to play Cupid for her friends with their love lives. In return, her friends and family were certain that Emma was the one who was in need of a man.
In a comical turn of events, Emma decides it’s time to set her mom up and enrolls her in the Kismet Silvers event for people, fifty and older, looking for love. She, of course, does not consult her mom about her plans before she puts them into action 🤭 What transpires involves an upset mother; a run-in with a very handsome, muscular man; and an old man asking to see Emma’s bare feet. Will Emma succeed in setting up her mother, or will fate set Emma up with the man of her dreams?
Read it for:
🧁 ‘50s vibes
🧁 Fun mother/daughter duo
🧁 Modern rendition of Jane Austen’s Emma
🧁 Age Gap + Opposites Attract
🧁 Matchmaking
.
.
.
Thank you, Kiri, for allowing me to read an arc of your new novella 🩷
March 20, 2025
I love a book that has small town vibes, a fun meet cute, and substance. Emma wants to be a match maker for everyone else but when it comes to her own life she isn’t so confident. She even takes it as far as taking her mother to a 50’s mingle and isn’t afraid to dress up and hide her own identity if it means helping her mom have a second chance at happiness. This Novella by Kiri Patterson does not disappoint.
April 9, 2025
This book is the most adorable quick read and I loved it! 🧁
Emma. I LOVE how she owns her quirks 👠 She’s such a good example of being authentic, but also proof that self-doubt and fear can still affect the most genuine 🫶🏼 Her opening herself up to love was amazing 🥹 and I adored the curvy girl rep!
Grant. He is a KEEPER 🥹 I loved the complexities of his character. And the way he loved ALL of Emma 🥹 so amazing. He knew her so well and I loved reading him woo her 🥰
This book was absolutely adorable 🥰 I loved the vintage references through the entire thing 🌟 and the matchmaking was amazing 😂
Emma. I LOVE how she owns her quirks 👠 She’s such a good example of being authentic, but also proof that self-doubt and fear can still affect the most genuine 🫶🏼 Her opening herself up to love was amazing 🥹 and I adored the curvy girl rep!
Grant. He is a KEEPER 🥹 I loved the complexities of his character. And the way he loved ALL of Emma 🥹 so amazing. He knew her so well and I loved reading him woo her 🥰
This book was absolutely adorable 🥰 I loved the vintage references through the entire thing 🌟 and the matchmaking was amazing 😂
April 8, 2025
Cupid & Cupcakes
by: Kiri Patterson
@authorkiripatterson
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
“Romance paints the world in bright colors, and finding that light for others made me happy.”
~Emma Woods has zero interest in dating-but matchmaking? That’s another story…
-Cupid & Cakes, is created with delightful ingredients of endearingly strong characters, lots of witty banter, well-intentioned meddling, mistaken identities, and swoon-worthy moments, to create such a short filled sweet romcom treat of adorable goodness. This story is such a delight! The pacing and chemistry and tension are perfectly blended into this sweet story. I thoroughly enjoyed the humor at planned events, a quiet love of all things vintage, the great character growth, the swoony moments and kisses, and also love for classic movies, that include one of my favorite male characters, Cary Grant! If you haven’t seen him in a movie, you need to! Watching dear characters fight for those they love most had my heart. Add in a sweet ending of happily ever after in this story, was the sprinkles of extra goodness on top for me! This is a cute story worth the quick but delightful read, anytime! 🙌🏻📚🧁
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone-it’s about how they make you
feel about yourself.”
-Content: kisses only; no swearing!
“Real love isn’t about grand romantic
gestures like in the movies, but about choosing each other every day, to apologize and try again, in the messy moments of everyday life.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Cary Grant was good-looking, don’t get me wrong. But if I had to pick? My Grant won, all day, every day.”
#cupidandcupcakes
#authorkiripatterson
“Life likes to be hard. When it’s not the way you want, keep pushing, and good things come. More often than not, it ends up better than you could have planned in the long run.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
#worththesweetread
“Just like that, I was home. Not a place. Not a building. Just him. Always him.”
by: Kiri Patterson
@authorkiripatterson
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
“Romance paints the world in bright colors, and finding that light for others made me happy.”
~Emma Woods has zero interest in dating-but matchmaking? That’s another story…
-Cupid & Cakes, is created with delightful ingredients of endearingly strong characters, lots of witty banter, well-intentioned meddling, mistaken identities, and swoon-worthy moments, to create such a short filled sweet romcom treat of adorable goodness. This story is such a delight! The pacing and chemistry and tension are perfectly blended into this sweet story. I thoroughly enjoyed the humor at planned events, a quiet love of all things vintage, the great character growth, the swoony moments and kisses, and also love for classic movies, that include one of my favorite male characters, Cary Grant! If you haven’t seen him in a movie, you need to! Watching dear characters fight for those they love most had my heart. Add in a sweet ending of happily ever after in this story, was the sprinkles of extra goodness on top for me! This is a cute story worth the quick but delightful read, anytime! 🙌🏻📚🧁
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone-it’s about how they make you
feel about yourself.”
-Content: kisses only; no swearing!
“Real love isn’t about grand romantic
gestures like in the movies, but about choosing each other every day, to apologize and try again, in the messy moments of everyday life.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Cary Grant was good-looking, don’t get me wrong. But if I had to pick? My Grant won, all day, every day.”
#cupidandcupcakes
#authorkiripatterson
“Life likes to be hard. When it’s not the way you want, keep pushing, and good things come. More often than not, it ends up better than you could have planned in the long run.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
#worththesweetread
“Just like that, I was home. Not a place. Not a building. Just him. Always him.”
April 4, 2025
"Cary Grant was good-looking, don't get me wrong. But if I had to pick? My Grant won, all day, every day."
Cupid and Cupcakes by Kiri Patterson
4.5 stars rounded up!
Cuteness Alert! I adored this sweet novella. From the meet-cute that had me laughing out loud, to eating chocolate cupcakes scene *Swoon*, and the proposal. One of my favorite proposals I've read; it was so cute!
I love how this novella had Emma by Jane Austen vibes. Even the FMC's name is Emma Ann Woods.
I loved the Cary Grant, Fiddler on the Roof, and Marvel references.
Their romance was so sweet and fun to watch unfold.
I definitely recommend this one. It made it onto my favorites list.
Favorite Parts:
Emma Jane Austen vibes
Setting up her mom
Meet cute
Chocolate cupcakes
Helping her feel seen and worthy
Content Guide:
Language: none-1 use of word "sexy"
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Passionate kissing
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Feelings of self-doubt/worth
Book Info:
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary RomCom
Romance Level: Closed-door 2
Release Date: April 7, 2025
Publisher: Indie
POV: single
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
Cupid and Cupcakes by Kiri Patterson
4.5 stars rounded up!
Cuteness Alert! I adored this sweet novella. From the meet-cute that had me laughing out loud, to eating chocolate cupcakes scene *Swoon*, and the proposal. One of my favorite proposals I've read; it was so cute!
I love how this novella had Emma by Jane Austen vibes. Even the FMC's name is Emma Ann Woods.
I loved the Cary Grant, Fiddler on the Roof, and Marvel references.
Their romance was so sweet and fun to watch unfold.
I definitely recommend this one. It made it onto my favorites list.
Favorite Parts:
Emma Jane Austen vibes
Setting up her mom
Meet cute
Chocolate cupcakes
Helping her feel seen and worthy
Content Guide:
Language: none-1 use of word "sexy"
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Passionate kissing
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Feelings of self-doubt/worth
Book Info:
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary RomCom
Romance Level: Closed-door 2
Release Date: April 7, 2025
Publisher: Indie
POV: single
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
April 3, 2025
There is seriously so much to love in this adorable little novella! I loved Emma's, as she put it 'eccentric, weird' way. Her love of vintage things, the time periods 1950's and 1920's and old moves is a love of mine too. Those things brought her and her mom closer together and it's something that used to bring my dad and I closer together too before he passed, so it held meaning to me reading it.
The chemistry between Emma and Grant was perfect. I love how they met it was clever and funny! She was trying to set her mom up going to a fifty plus only organized event going with when she's caught by Grant the owner. The progression of their relationship was so sweet and their kiss sessions, swoon! No spice but so adorable! Grant was definitely close to perfect book boyfriend, loved him! "You are beautiful. I love that you know who you are and what you like. It's sexy. And personally...'He raised his brows and gave me a wicked grin.'I really enjoy your curves.'"-Grant.. I'll take a Grant please and thank you!
This is such a great book to pick up to brighten your day, make you laugh and squeal with all the sweetness. Guaranteed adorable HEA!
The chemistry between Emma and Grant was perfect. I love how they met it was clever and funny! She was trying to set her mom up going to a fifty plus only organized event going with when she's caught by Grant the owner. The progression of their relationship was so sweet and their kiss sessions, swoon! No spice but so adorable! Grant was definitely close to perfect book boyfriend, loved him! "You are beautiful. I love that you know who you are and what you like. It's sexy. And personally...'He raised his brows and gave me a wicked grin.'I really enjoy your curves.'"-Grant.. I'll take a Grant please and thank you!
This is such a great book to pick up to brighten your day, make you laugh and squeal with all the sweetness. Guaranteed adorable HEA!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
I squealed when I heard Kiri had another project in the works and this novella is ABSOLUTELY FUN!
The opening chapter had me giggling. You have such a quirky, fun, adorable FMC, Emma, who is just like Austen's beloved Emma! Emma sees one popup ad for a "Kismet Silvers" and begins her matchmaking quest for her mom and the chaos begins.
As you can imagine, Emma has to get super creative trying to sneak into a STRICT 50+ single mingle event with her mom so as to not raise any suspicions. (Think costume and drawn on wrinkles!!) The venue owner, Grant, becomes laser focused on stopping Emma, believing her to be a gold digger looking for her next "victim."
In a world where the only constant man in Emma's life is Cary Grant (yes, the old timey actor!) it's fun watching reality blend with her fantasy. She ends up getting a "Grant" but in an unexpected package.
Sweet kisses
Third-act tears
Fun twist on a classic
I had a blast reading this novella and I know you will too!
The opening chapter had me giggling. You have such a quirky, fun, adorable FMC, Emma, who is just like Austen's beloved Emma! Emma sees one popup ad for a "Kismet Silvers" and begins her matchmaking quest for her mom and the chaos begins.
As you can imagine, Emma has to get super creative trying to sneak into a STRICT 50+ single mingle event with her mom so as to not raise any suspicions. (Think costume and drawn on wrinkles!!) The venue owner, Grant, becomes laser focused on stopping Emma, believing her to be a gold digger looking for her next "victim."
In a world where the only constant man in Emma's life is Cary Grant (yes, the old timey actor!) it's fun watching reality blend with her fantasy. She ends up getting a "Grant" but in an unexpected package.
Sweet kisses
Third-act tears
Fun twist on a classic
I had a blast reading this novella and I know you will too!
July 30, 2025
This book was just what I needed. A quick read full of sweetness and laughter.
I loved Emma and her love of cupcakes and all things vintage. She’s holding out for a Cary Grant to sweep her off her feet when she meets a Grant who wants to kick her out of his building, potato potahto.
Grant was definitely leading man material and I loved how he treated Emma, well except when he was throwing her out of the building 🤣
“Maybe real love isn’t about grand romantic gestures like in the movies, but about choosing each other every day, to apologize and try again, in the messy moments of everyday life.”
“This man was everything. He made me believe in myself. He made me feel beautiful. Seen. Loved—in a way no one ever had.”
Emma’s determination to find someone to make her mom happy was endearing albeit a bit sneaky, leading to some laugh out loud moments.
This was the perfect light hearted treat I needed and it hit all the right places.
I loved Emma and her love of cupcakes and all things vintage. She’s holding out for a Cary Grant to sweep her off her feet when she meets a Grant who wants to kick her out of his building, potato potahto.
Grant was definitely leading man material and I loved how he treated Emma, well except when he was throwing her out of the building 🤣
“Maybe real love isn’t about grand romantic gestures like in the movies, but about choosing each other every day, to apologize and try again, in the messy moments of everyday life.”
“This man was everything. He made me believe in myself. He made me feel beautiful. Seen. Loved—in a way no one ever had.”
Emma’s determination to find someone to make her mom happy was endearing albeit a bit sneaky, leading to some laugh out loud moments.
This was the perfect light hearted treat I needed and it hit all the right places.
March 22, 2025
This book made me giddy at times. Emma sneaking into events only for Grant to find her each time and kick her out was hilarious. Grant was such a sweetheart. I loved how easily he accepted Emma and loved her for who she was.
Favorite Quotes:
“Have you seen a black and white movie with a girlfriend, maybe?” I forced my face into confidence I didn’t feel. Grant smirked. “Not yet.” He winked.
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone—it’s about how they make you feel about yourself. Do they make you a better, more confident version of yourself when you’re with them? Do they help you believe in yourself and what you can accomplish, and do you get to do those things for them? Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
Favorite Quotes:
“Have you seen a black and white movie with a girlfriend, maybe?” I forced my face into confidence I didn’t feel. Grant smirked. “Not yet.” He winked.
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone—it’s about how they make you feel about yourself. Do they make you a better, more confident version of yourself when you’re with them? Do they help you believe in yourself and what you can accomplish, and do you get to do those things for them? Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.”
April 8, 2025
This was super cute! I am always impressed by the condensed version of a familiar-to-me author's writing in a well-paced novella. What makes a great novella to me is if it can add momentum to your reading month and this hit that mark for me. The writing is smooth and the story is cute, the perfect match for a one-sitting binge read.
There was surprising depth in both the romance and the mother/daughter relationship. The romance had some angst to it I was not expecting. A third-act breakup in a novella that TOTALLY worked. I actually loved it haha. The age gap was presented well and none of the tropes were overbearing. This is single POV but you definitely get to know the MMC well and love him at that. The kiss was written really well! The FMC is a bit of a foodie and I kept feeling like I could smell her takeout Italian and the cupcake frosting through my kindle screen. This lost a star for me mostly in Emma's personality here and there.
I did receive an eARC to read and review and an early paperback copy but these thoughts are my own.
In this book: matchmaking scheme, mother/daughter dynamic, age gap, opposites attract, grumpy x sunshine, single POV, curvy FMC, Emma inspired
Content guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
There was surprising depth in both the romance and the mother/daughter relationship. The romance had some angst to it I was not expecting. A third-act breakup in a novella that TOTALLY worked. I actually loved it haha. The age gap was presented well and none of the tropes were overbearing. This is single POV but you definitely get to know the MMC well and love him at that. The kiss was written really well! The FMC is a bit of a foodie and I kept feeling like I could smell her takeout Italian and the cupcake frosting through my kindle screen. This lost a star for me mostly in Emma's personality here and there.
I did receive an eARC to read and review and an early paperback copy but these thoughts are my own.
In this book: matchmaking scheme, mother/daughter dynamic, age gap, opposites attract, grumpy x sunshine, single POV, curvy FMC, Emma inspired
Content guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
April 9, 2025
This was such a cute book🥰 the FMC, Emma, is obsessed with all things 1950s and chocolate! While giving up on finding love for herself, she becomes laser focused on playing Cupid for everyone else around her. While trying to set up her mom at a singles event, she runs into(literally😅) Grant, aka ‘Mr. Muscles’😂
Grant and Emma’s first several interactions are absolutely hilarious and I loved it so much🥰 Watching them get together and start growing and healing each other’s past hurts and insecurities all while blossoming into something beautiful was so wholesome and healing for my heart🥹
This book is full of all the feels and I can’t wait to read more from Kiri🥰
🧁Sweet Romance
📽️50s/Vintage Vibes
🧁Business Owners
📽️Opposites Attract
🧁Novella
📽️Meet Cute Disaster
🧁Modern Rendition on Emma
Grant and Emma’s first several interactions are absolutely hilarious and I loved it so much🥰 Watching them get together and start growing and healing each other’s past hurts and insecurities all while blossoming into something beautiful was so wholesome and healing for my heart🥹
This book is full of all the feels and I can’t wait to read more from Kiri🥰
🧁Sweet Romance
📽️50s/Vintage Vibes
🧁Business Owners
📽️Opposites Attract
🧁Novella
📽️Meet Cute Disaster
🧁Modern Rendition on Emma
May 13, 2025
I absolutely loved "No Plans to Fall" which is Kiri Patterson's last book, so when I heard about this one I knew I would need to read it too. I love Kiri's generous use of humor and the amount of heart and depth she includes in her stories. After reading "Cupid and Cupcakes" she had me wishing she could write a happy ending for me too. I related so much with Emma on an emotional level and shed plenty of tears in a certain part of her story, but I kept reading because I knew Kiri would find a way for Emma to have a happy ending. Grateful to this author for another heartfelt and humor filled story that brought depth and meaning to the exploration of people struggling with brokenness and self image.
August 8, 2025
Such a good debut by Kiri Patterson! I’m so glad I read this!!
Best quotes:
“Cary Grant was good-looking, don’t get me wrong. But if I had to pick? My Grant won, all day, every day.”
“I felt like I was drowning before I met you. Drowning in anger, emptiness, and grief.” His eyes brightened and he shook his head. “Then you came. This beautiful, strong, classy woman that turned my entire world upside down.”
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone—it’s about how they make you feel about yourself. Do they make you a better, more confident version of yourself when you’re with them? Do they help you believe in yourself and what you can accomplish, and do you get to do those things for them? Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.” 🙃
Best quotes:
“Cary Grant was good-looking, don’t get me wrong. But if I had to pick? My Grant won, all day, every day.”
“I felt like I was drowning before I met you. Drowning in anger, emptiness, and grief.” His eyes brightened and he shook his head. “Then you came. This beautiful, strong, classy woman that turned my entire world upside down.”
“Real love isn’t about how long you’ve known someone—it’s about how they make you feel about yourself. Do they make you a better, more confident version of yourself when you’re with them? Do they help you believe in yourself and what you can accomplish, and do you get to do those things for them? Real love is the stuff the movies wish they could capture.” 🙃
March 16, 2025
This is such a cute short closed door romcom read. I read it in a couple hours ❤️❤️❤️ I love how Emma isn't interested in finding love but yet love finds her. She wants to pay Cupid for others including her mom but doesn't want anyone doing that for her. I honestly couldn't put your down, I wanted to know what would happen when she tried to pass herself off as over 50, I wanted to see if he would like her quirks and all, I loved how they had some things in similarity but a lot was opposite - opposite taste in dessert type things, opposite taste in movies, and more. There were a few twists but I absolutely loved the ending 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
I can't wait to read more of Kiri's works.
I can't wait to read more of Kiri's works.
April 4, 2025
Ahhh! I loved this book! I read it in just over a day and found myself giggling often at all of the antics of Emma.
Favorite moments:
- Emma’s disguise
- Her moms phone battery dying
- Mr. Muscles
- The Italian food
- Cary Grant movies
Favorite quote:
Have you seen a black and white movie with a girlfriend, maybe?” I forced my face into confidence I didn’t feel. Grant smirked. “Not yet.” He winked.
Overall this is a fantastic book! I would recommend this to preteens and older. The romance is kept to kissing only, and there are many funny moments to keep everyone laughing. Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
Favorite moments:
- Emma’s disguise
- Her moms phone battery dying
- Mr. Muscles
- The Italian food
- Cary Grant movies
Favorite quote:
Have you seen a black and white movie with a girlfriend, maybe?” I forced my face into confidence I didn’t feel. Grant smirked. “Not yet.” He winked.
Overall this is a fantastic book! I would recommend this to preteens and older. The romance is kept to kissing only, and there are many funny moments to keep everyone laughing. Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
April 7, 2025
If life is feeling like a LOT right now and you need an escape as sweet as a chocolate cupcake, CUPID AND CUPCAKES by Kiri Patterson is the perfect romantic escape. This quick novella packs romance and a vintage fifties feel together with two characters who fall for each other quickly but still need to overcome hang ups from their childhoods in order to make their relationship work. I’m always impressed with the way this author manages to put all the little romantic moments and activities I used to daydream about. I went through a major black-and-white movie phase when I was 19 and this book brought me right back. Movie night, anyone?
April 15, 2025
I give this 4 1/2 Stars!!
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a sweet clean romance book. The main characters are Grant and Emma. Emma has given up on love and decides to find her mom a boyfriend. During this Emma meets Grant. Thanks to her mom she agrees to go on a date with Grant. Will she open her heart to him? Will she realize he isn’t like the guys from her past? Will he be the guy she needs? Will they accept each other for who they are? This book was so cute. I loved the side characters. I loved seeing their relationship. The epilogue was amazing. There is so much more I could say but this is a shorter book so I don’t want to spoil anything.
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a sweet clean romance book. The main characters are Grant and Emma. Emma has given up on love and decides to find her mom a boyfriend. During this Emma meets Grant. Thanks to her mom she agrees to go on a date with Grant. Will she open her heart to him? Will she realize he isn’t like the guys from her past? Will he be the guy she needs? Will they accept each other for who they are? This book was so cute. I loved the side characters. I loved seeing their relationship. The epilogue was amazing. There is so much more I could say but this is a shorter book so I don’t want to spoil anything.
January 4, 2026
Content: kissing only (no language or violence)
Genre/tropes: novella, contemporary romcom, insta-love, matchmaker
This has nods to Jane Austen’s Emma, with the main character named Emma Woods who is a self-proclaimed matchmaker. She has sworn off love for herself after a string of boyfriends grew bored with the real her (who loves all things 1950s and lots of sweets). But when she meets Grant and they quickly fall for each other, that all goes out the window.
Emma and Grant are cute together, Emma’s best friend Jane is a lot of fun as well, and I love the slightly ridiculous predicaments Emma finds herself in.
Genre/tropes: novella, contemporary romcom, insta-love, matchmaker
This has nods to Jane Austen’s Emma, with the main character named Emma Woods who is a self-proclaimed matchmaker. She has sworn off love for herself after a string of boyfriends grew bored with the real her (who loves all things 1950s and lots of sweets). But when she meets Grant and they quickly fall for each other, that all goes out the window.
Emma and Grant are cute together, Emma’s best friend Jane is a lot of fun as well, and I love the slightly ridiculous predicaments Emma finds herself in.
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