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The Great Cake Caper
Not yet published
Expected 3 Nov 26A girl from a family of bakers discovers she has a talent for solving mysteries in this delectable first book in a mischief-filled, highly illustrated middle grade whodunit series perfect for the fans of The Great British Bake Off and Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.
Cinnamon Crumb is better at burning cakes than baking them. Her family’s bakery, once the pride of the town of Marzipan, is now a scraggly slice of icing squished between two pastry Victoria Sponge’s Tea Emporium and Madeleine Macaron’s Mouthwatering Delights. And Cinnamon certainly isn’t the baker to change that.
But when a suspicious request lands her in the town’s legendary baking competition, Cinnamon finds herself at the center of a nefarious plot. Someone might be cheating to win this year’s Twelve-Tiered Crown—and Cinnamon’s been roped into finding out who. With her best friend Rafi, she’s soon sneaking through patisserie kitchens and unearthing more than a few secrets. Can Cinnamon crack the case, rise to the occasion, and prove that even the crumbliest underdog has what it takes to win?
Cinnamon Crumb is better at burning cakes than baking them. Her family’s bakery, once the pride of the town of Marzipan, is now a scraggly slice of icing squished between two pastry Victoria Sponge’s Tea Emporium and Madeleine Macaron’s Mouthwatering Delights. And Cinnamon certainly isn’t the baker to change that.
But when a suspicious request lands her in the town’s legendary baking competition, Cinnamon finds herself at the center of a nefarious plot. Someone might be cheating to win this year’s Twelve-Tiered Crown—and Cinnamon’s been roped into finding out who. With her best friend Rafi, she’s soon sneaking through patisserie kitchens and unearthing more than a few secrets. Can Cinnamon crack the case, rise to the occasion, and prove that even the crumbliest underdog has what it takes to win?
352 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication November 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Usborne for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I love a good thriller or crime novel, an historical war book or literary tome. But sometimes I want the magic that only comes from a kids book.
And I mean, a book with characters called Cinnamon Crumb, Victoria Sponge, and Madeleine Macaron, in a town called Marzipan, on Choux Street near Croissant Corner. That's a sure-fire winner there.
Guys...we have a map!
There are illustrations. They did look wonderful and I think they will really add something to the story. I do believe Harry was the illustrator as well as the author and they've done such a fabulous job because they really are great.
There are a few footnotes which, whilst not 100% necessary to read to understand the story, I think they do add more personality to the narration and are quite funny in places.
It's not a Christmas book as such but it does take place in the winter and it's full of snow and ice and everyone's wrapped up in their winter clothes, and let me tell you, after reading this during the July heatwave, this winter gremlin was very jealous of the characters.
Harry has done a marvellous job at creating a sense of atmosphere. Everything from the houses to the weather and the land are so beautiful they practically glow off the page and add to the cosy, wintery feeling. And the descriptions of the food, the Christmas cakes and Yule logs, meringues, sponges, biscuits and bread - I want to try it all.
It's inclusive without looking like it's just there to tick a box. They've found the right balance.
The mystery element isn't too complex or the older readers but I have read many a mystery in my time so I can probably cheat a little bit. I think Harry has pitched it just right for the recommended reading age. It's simple enough to follow but full of hints and red herrings to keep them on their toes.
It's not a short book - nor is it overly long - but it's so fast paced and so much fun that it just whizzes by and I read it in a few hours. I know I'm an adult and can read at an adult's pace so it'll probably take younger readers a little longer but I don't think by much. It's so addictive.
It's full of atmosphere and character, fun hijinks and subtle terror, and of course the delicious baked goods. I think this is the start of a series and whilst I might be more than three times the reading age, I'm already looking forward to joining these characters again.
I love a good thriller or crime novel, an historical war book or literary tome. But sometimes I want the magic that only comes from a kids book.
And I mean, a book with characters called Cinnamon Crumb, Victoria Sponge, and Madeleine Macaron, in a town called Marzipan, on Choux Street near Croissant Corner. That's a sure-fire winner there.
Guys...we have a map!
There are illustrations. They did look wonderful and I think they will really add something to the story. I do believe Harry was the illustrator as well as the author and they've done such a fabulous job because they really are great.
There are a few footnotes which, whilst not 100% necessary to read to understand the story, I think they do add more personality to the narration and are quite funny in places.
It's not a Christmas book as such but it does take place in the winter and it's full of snow and ice and everyone's wrapped up in their winter clothes, and let me tell you, after reading this during the July heatwave, this winter gremlin was very jealous of the characters.
Harry has done a marvellous job at creating a sense of atmosphere. Everything from the houses to the weather and the land are so beautiful they practically glow off the page and add to the cosy, wintery feeling. And the descriptions of the food, the Christmas cakes and Yule logs, meringues, sponges, biscuits and bread - I want to try it all.
It's inclusive without looking like it's just there to tick a box. They've found the right balance.
The mystery element isn't too complex or the older readers but I have read many a mystery in my time so I can probably cheat a little bit. I think Harry has pitched it just right for the recommended reading age. It's simple enough to follow but full of hints and red herrings to keep them on their toes.
It's not a short book - nor is it overly long - but it's so fast paced and so much fun that it just whizzes by and I read it in a few hours. I know I'm an adult and can read at an adult's pace so it'll probably take younger readers a little longer but I don't think by much. It's so addictive.
It's full of atmosphere and character, fun hijinks and subtle terror, and of course the delicious baked goods. I think this is the start of a series and whilst I might be more than three times the reading age, I'm already looking forward to joining these characters again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a treat this was, this is a brilliant younger middle grade Book, full of life and character and baking puns! Cinnamon is an engaging heroine with just enough flaws to make her likable, but not annoying. Her best friend Rafi is a great foil for her, but I can’t wait to see him developed a little bit more in future Books.
The real hero here is the world that Woodgate has created, everything is themed around baking, the confectionery street names are a delight, the baking sounds delicious and the puns are on point. Although whimsical, everything is consistent, and they have built the bones of a world that can be used for stories for many Books to come.
The Central mystery is really well done with red herrings and clues, that will keep kids guessing really well. As a seasoned cozy mystery reader I did guess whodunnit, but as a 45 year-old grown-up, I may have had some critical thinking shortcuts! But what was just as interesting was the whydunnit too, but I didn’t see coming!
Finally, the illustration is, here, Woodgate excels. Their style is so detailed and clear and full of charm that the world is really brought to life. The design and placement of the art is excellent, and the whole book is really beautiful to read
This one’s not even out, and I’m already eager for the next to appear on netgalley. I can’t wait to pick up this first one as a physical book in September so I can really appreciate the amazing illustrations.
The real hero here is the world that Woodgate has created, everything is themed around baking, the confectionery street names are a delight, the baking sounds delicious and the puns are on point. Although whimsical, everything is consistent, and they have built the bones of a world that can be used for stories for many Books to come.
The Central mystery is really well done with red herrings and clues, that will keep kids guessing really well. As a seasoned cozy mystery reader I did guess whodunnit, but as a 45 year-old grown-up, I may have had some critical thinking shortcuts! But what was just as interesting was the whydunnit too, but I didn’t see coming!
Finally, the illustration is, here, Woodgate excels. Their style is so detailed and clear and full of charm that the world is really brought to life. The design and placement of the art is excellent, and the whole book is really beautiful to read
This one’s not even out, and I’m already eager for the next to appear on netgalley. I can’t wait to pick up this first one as a physical book in September so I can really appreciate the amazing illustrations.
July 18, 2026
A mouthwatering mystery, baked to perfection.
Cinnamon Crumb lives in a town where everyone seems able to bake the most incredible treats. She, however, has the unfortunate talent of burning even water. So when she is presented with a mystery to solve, Cinnamon finds herself with perhaps her greatest chance yet to prove herself in the town of Marzipan. But as she delves deeper into the case, she begins to uncover secrets far bigger than who might be sabotaging the finest bakes at Victoria Sponge’s Tea Emporium...
Harry Woodgate delivers one of the finest middle grade mysteries to get lost in, though be warned: you run the risk of developing a serious craving for baked goods with every turn of the page. Their illustrations only add further whimsy and joy to the story, creating the ideal cosy read for September weather. Exploring themes of self-confidence, friendship, and complicated family histories, Harry gives readers a story that feels both comforting and memorable.
Perfect for fans of Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles, as well as readers of Rachel Chivers Khoo and Beth Lincoln.
Publication date: 10th September 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read an advanced copy.
Cinnamon Crumb lives in a town where everyone seems able to bake the most incredible treats. She, however, has the unfortunate talent of burning even water. So when she is presented with a mystery to solve, Cinnamon finds herself with perhaps her greatest chance yet to prove herself in the town of Marzipan. But as she delves deeper into the case, she begins to uncover secrets far bigger than who might be sabotaging the finest bakes at Victoria Sponge’s Tea Emporium...
Harry Woodgate delivers one of the finest middle grade mysteries to get lost in, though be warned: you run the risk of developing a serious craving for baked goods with every turn of the page. Their illustrations only add further whimsy and joy to the story, creating the ideal cosy read for September weather. Exploring themes of self-confidence, friendship, and complicated family histories, Harry gives readers a story that feels both comforting and memorable.
Perfect for fans of Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles, as well as readers of Rachel Chivers Khoo and Beth Lincoln.
Publication date: 10th September 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the best mystery written for children that I've read in a while! The conversational narration in the beginning and the adorable illustrations, especially of the Crumb house, drew me in right away. I enjoyed the baking puns and the clever themed names. I also thought it was wonderful that Tourette's Syndrome was represented in one of the main characters and it was explained well for children reading the book to understand more about it. Most of all, I loved the subtle hints throughout the story of who the culprit could be but it wasn't glaringly obvious. To be honest, I was only half correct in my guess. I had my doubts about the suspected culprit and had a hunch about someone else, who turned out to be the accomplice. I had no suspicions about the main villain though and was surprised when the truth was revealed. I was hooked while reading this story and I'm looking forward to more in the series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Cosy & Delicious Story That Combines Baked Goods & A Mystery To Solve In The Charming World Of Marzipan. Cinnamon And Her Friends Ravi & Amber With The Help Of Snickerdoodle The Dog & Bakewell The Cat Go Through A Lot Of Twists & Turns In Their Effort To Solve The Case. The Story Is Very Fast Paced And Has Fantastically Detailed Illustrations On Nearly All Of The Pages. The World Of Marzipan Is Filled With Characters With Wonderful Names And Is Jam- Packed With Baking Puns. I Loved The Inclusion Of Footnotes And A Map In The Book. I Think The Disability Rep Was Brilliant, Explaining Amber's Tourette's Syndrome In A Really Accessible Way. I Would Recommend This Book To Children 7 & Up But Adults Will Enjoy This Story Just As Much. I Can't Wait To Read Book Two And Am Excited For A Return Trip To The Enchanting World Of Marzipan.
Thanks To NetGalley And The Publisher For The ARC.
Thanks To NetGalley And The Publisher For The ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fantastic read for whimsical kids! Myself and my 7 year old adored this story, and the beautiful illustrations which are throughout the whole book. The cast of characters are diverse and engaging and opened up some lovely conversations. We loved following the mystery and ticking off our suspect list (when we weren't being caught by red herrings). A really great read which more confident youngsters could manage easily alone, but also a great story to read together.
A little warning though...this book will make you want to bake and eat lots of goodies, so make sure your cupboards are well stocked before diving in!
My kids review - 'really funny and yummy, made me want to be a detective and eat lots of tasty cakes too....five stars!'
A little warning though...this book will make you want to bake and eat lots of goodies, so make sure your cupboards are well stocked before diving in!
My kids review - 'really funny and yummy, made me want to be a detective and eat lots of tasty cakes too....five stars!'
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In a town full of bakers with almost mythical creative powers, Cinnamon Crumb stands out by virtue of her complete lack of culinary skills - and how can she hope to restore her family's crumbling reputation (pun intended) without them?
As it turns out, she is given a most unusual opportunity, when Cinnamon and her friend and sidekick look into the feud, arising from possible unethical practices, between two of the top bakers in town...
An enjoyable romp in the form of a delicious detective story, biscuits 3. 5 stars. Do not read on an empty stomach!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
As it turns out, she is given a most unusual opportunity, when Cinnamon and her friend and sidekick look into the feud, arising from possible unethical practices, between two of the top bakers in town...
An enjoyable romp in the form of a delicious detective story, biscuits 3. 5 stars. Do not read on an empty stomach!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you for Net Galley for the advanced copy.
A really enjoyable middle grade mystery. I loved the descriptions of the cakes and bakeries and the story had plenty of twists and turns along the way.
The characters were what really stood out. They were written for a modern audience and every child would be able to see themselves in one of the characters.
The illustrations were excellent, as you would expect from a Harry Woodgate book.
A really enjoyable middle grade mystery. I loved the descriptions of the cakes and bakeries and the story had plenty of twists and turns along the way.
The characters were what really stood out. They were written for a modern audience and every child would be able to see themselves in one of the characters.
The illustrations were excellent, as you would expect from a Harry Woodgate book.
June 14, 2026
I loved this! Who knew you could get so many baking based puns and wordplay into one book? Just delightful. I loved Cinnamon and her friends. This is such a gorgeous story of friendship, accepting others for exactly who they are, secrets and detecting! The illustrations are just incredible. I can’t wait for the second book!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews