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Bake It 'Til You Make It
All Taylor Madden has ever wanted is to own a bakery filled with whimsical designs and unforgettable flavors. Landing a spot on America's Next Great Baker is her chance to make that dream a reality--even if her biggest competition is a cocky, annoyingly gorgeous distraction who smirks every time she slips up. Winning could mean a fresh start. Surviving him might be the bigger challenge.
Alexander Harrington only agreed to the competition to get his parents off his back, not to complicate things with the disaster-prone optimist who insists on making everything cute. She's not supposed to be his biggest obstacle, but the longer they're stuck in the kitchen together, the harder it is to remember he's meant to beat her... not fall for her.
The stakes are high, the ovens are hot, and the cameras are rolling. But when the rivalry starts to taste like something sweeter, will either of them walk away with more than just the prize?
Alexander Harrington only agreed to the competition to get his parents off his back, not to complicate things with the disaster-prone optimist who insists on making everything cute. She's not supposed to be his biggest obstacle, but the longer they're stuck in the kitchen together, the harder it is to remember he's meant to beat her... not fall for her.
The stakes are high, the ovens are hot, and the cameras are rolling. But when the rivalry starts to taste like something sweeter, will either of them walk away with more than just the prize?
356 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2026
About the author
Kassie Jones
3 books38 followersLifelong storyteller from the Detroit suburbs who's finally sharing my stories with the world. I love all genres, and my writing style has been described (by me, mostly) as a tornado with the best of intentions.
When I'm not writing, you can usually find me baking, getting lost in a book, dancing at concerts, or diving headfirst into whatever ADHD hyperfixation has my attention that week. I live with my husband, two daughters, and a mischievous puppy, who keep life full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.
I hope my stories leave you feeling seen, loved, understood, and maybe even a little inspired.
When I'm not writing, you can usually find me baking, getting lost in a book, dancing at concerts, or diving headfirst into whatever ADHD hyperfixation has my attention that week. I live with my husband, two daughters, and a mischievous puppy, who keep life full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.
I hope my stories leave you feeling seen, loved, understood, and maybe even a little inspired.
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August 9, 2026ALC provided by High Gravity Productions.
Bake It Till You Make It was such a fun listen. I really enjoyed the characters, and even though Taylor and I could not be more different when it comes to how chirpy we are, I found her surprisingly relatable. She also genuinely annoyed me at times, and honestly, I think that says a lot about how well she was written. She felt like an actual person.
I also really enjoyed the reality show side of the story too. I’d never really thought about how much funny business can go on behind the scenes, so I found that part really interesting.
This actually felt like a real relationship. It wasn’t just two people meeting, falling for each other, and everything conveniently falling into place because this is a romance. They had to figure themselves and each other out, and that made where they ended up feel so earned.
Autum Mercer and Brandon Francis were both great. It took me a little while to adjust to just how chirpy Autum’s performance of Taylor was. Nothin on Autumn, she was actually amazing, but Taylor has so much bubbly energy that my brain definitely needed a minute to adjust. Once it did, her performance fit Taylor perfectly.
Overall, this was cute, fun, and really easy to stay invested in.
I’d recommend this to readers who like reality-show romances, characters who actually feel human, and a romance that is earned.
Bake It Till You Make It was such a fun listen. I really enjoyed the characters, and even though Taylor and I could not be more different when it comes to how chirpy we are, I found her surprisingly relatable. She also genuinely annoyed me at times, and honestly, I think that says a lot about how well she was written. She felt like an actual person.
I also really enjoyed the reality show side of the story too. I’d never really thought about how much funny business can go on behind the scenes, so I found that part really interesting.
This actually felt like a real relationship. It wasn’t just two people meeting, falling for each other, and everything conveniently falling into place because this is a romance. They had to figure themselves and each other out, and that made where they ended up feel so earned.
Autum Mercer and Brandon Francis were both great. It took me a little while to adjust to just how chirpy Autum’s performance of Taylor was. Nothin on Autumn, she was actually amazing, but Taylor has so much bubbly energy that my brain definitely needed a minute to adjust. Once it did, her performance fit Taylor perfectly.
Overall, this was cute, fun, and really easy to stay invested in.
I’d recommend this to readers who like reality-show romances, characters who actually feel human, and a romance that is earned.
August 17, 2026
Audiobook Review: Fake It Till You Make It by Kassie Jones
Narrated by: Autumn Mercer & Brandon Francis
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quick Take
A delightful, low-angst romantic comedy that combines the high-stakes pressure of a reality baking show with a classic grumpy-versus-sunshine trope.
The Story
Taylor Madden is a creative optimist chasing her bakery dreams on a major reality baking competition. Alexander Harrington is a serious, reluctant head chef forced onto the show by his family. As they share the kitchen, the initial rivalry melts away, leading to a sweet, fast-falling romance where the MMC falls hard and fast.
The Audio Performance
Performed in duet narration, Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis absolutely nail their roles:
• Autumn Mercer captures Taylor’s bright, energetic, and dreamer-at-heart personality.
• Brandon Francis brilliantly handles Alex’s transition from frosty and closed-off to deeply devoted, especially shining in his delivery of Alex's evolving inner monologue.
Closing toughts
Lighthearted, funny, and packed with just the right amount of cozy romance and spice. Perfect for a quick afternoon listen
Narrated by: Autumn Mercer & Brandon Francis
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quick Take
A delightful, low-angst romantic comedy that combines the high-stakes pressure of a reality baking show with a classic grumpy-versus-sunshine trope.
The Story
Taylor Madden is a creative optimist chasing her bakery dreams on a major reality baking competition. Alexander Harrington is a serious, reluctant head chef forced onto the show by his family. As they share the kitchen, the initial rivalry melts away, leading to a sweet, fast-falling romance where the MMC falls hard and fast.
The Audio Performance
Performed in duet narration, Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis absolutely nail their roles:
• Autumn Mercer captures Taylor’s bright, energetic, and dreamer-at-heart personality.
• Brandon Francis brilliantly handles Alex’s transition from frosty and closed-off to deeply devoted, especially shining in his delivery of Alex's evolving inner monologue.
Closing toughts
Lighthearted, funny, and packed with just the right amount of cozy romance and spice. Perfect for a quick afternoon listen
August 15, 2026
Bake It 'Til You Make It was a sweet and entertaining romance set behind the scenes of a baking reality competition.
Taylor is competing because baking is genuinely her dream, while Alexander's reasons for being there are much more complicated. His family owns a successful restaurant business in Canada, and his controlling father sees the show as an opportunity to help with their expansion into the US. Alexander has his own dreams, however, and I really enjoyed watching him slowly begin to loosen up and actually have fun with the competition.
Taylor was such a ray of sunshine and incredibly easy to like. Alexander really didn't stand a chance! I especially loved how protective he became of her long before their relationship actually developed into something more.
The reality-show aspect was also interesting. I'm not normally a big reality-TV person, but I enjoyed seeing some of what happens behind closed doors and discovering that certain parts of the competition weren't quite as fair as they appeared.
The audiobook was enjoyable overall. Brandon Francis was fantastic as Alexander and really suited the character. It took me a little while to settle into Autumn Mercer's narration for Taylor, but her performance grew on me as the story progressed, and I ultimately enjoyed listening to both narrators.
Overall, this was a fun romance with plenty of baking, reality-show drama, a sunshine heroine and a very protective hero. The reality competition setting isn't necessarily my usual preference, so I didn't connect with every aspect of the story, but I still had a really good time with it.
3.75⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the opportunity to listen to and review this ALC. All opinions are my own.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
Taylor is competing because baking is genuinely her dream, while Alexander's reasons for being there are much more complicated. His family owns a successful restaurant business in Canada, and his controlling father sees the show as an opportunity to help with their expansion into the US. Alexander has his own dreams, however, and I really enjoyed watching him slowly begin to loosen up and actually have fun with the competition.
Taylor was such a ray of sunshine and incredibly easy to like. Alexander really didn't stand a chance! I especially loved how protective he became of her long before their relationship actually developed into something more.
The reality-show aspect was also interesting. I'm not normally a big reality-TV person, but I enjoyed seeing some of what happens behind closed doors and discovering that certain parts of the competition weren't quite as fair as they appeared.
The audiobook was enjoyable overall. Brandon Francis was fantastic as Alexander and really suited the character. It took me a little while to settle into Autumn Mercer's narration for Taylor, but her performance grew on me as the story progressed, and I ultimately enjoyed listening to both narrators.
Overall, this was a fun romance with plenty of baking, reality-show drama, a sunshine heroine and a very protective hero. The reality competition setting isn't necessarily my usual preference, so I didn't connect with every aspect of the story, but I still had a really good time with it.
3.75⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the opportunity to listen to and review this ALC. All opinions are my own.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
May 11, 2026
What a cute romance! I read Kassie’s first book and absolutely loved it, but if it’s possible, this one is even better. The story is fun, heartwarming, and guaranteed to make you smile and swoon.
The FMC is one of the most lovable heroines ever, and the MMC? Please. I need this man in my life.
The FMC is one of the most lovable heroines ever, and the MMC? Please. I need this man in my life.
August 5, 2026
Kassie Jones has won my heart with Bake It ‘Til You Make It! This was my first read from her, and I absolutely loved every moment. The story revolves around the charming chaos of Taylor, a vibrant ball of sunshine, and the grumpy, moody Alex, who has lost the joy in baking. As they find themselves competing in a baking show, Taylor’s infectious energy slowly breaks through Alex’s tough exterior, revealing a delightful journey of laughter, warmth, and unexpected romance.
Taylor’s dream of owning a bakery drives her to pursue success, while Alex’s reluctant participation adds a layer of tension that makes their dynamic so enjoyable to read. Watching their relationship evolve, from grumpy to sweet, was a joy! If you love a quick, fun, and heartwarming romcom, this book is definitely for you. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys baking or simply wants a delightful escape!
🎧 Audio Update:
I already loved this book enough to give it five stars, but listening to it reminded me why I fell in love with it in the first place. Brandon Francis and Autumn Mercer absolutely knocked it out of the park. They captured Taylor’s sunshine personality and Alex’s grumpy charm perfectly, making every laugh, every heartfelt moment, and every bit of chemistry feel so real. They truly brought these characters to life. If Goodreads let me give more than five stars for the audiobook, I would in a heartbeat. I’m so incredibly proud of Kassie Jones for bringing this story to audio it deserves every bit of the love it’s getting. ❤️🎧
Taylor’s dream of owning a bakery drives her to pursue success, while Alex’s reluctant participation adds a layer of tension that makes their dynamic so enjoyable to read. Watching their relationship evolve, from grumpy to sweet, was a joy! If you love a quick, fun, and heartwarming romcom, this book is definitely for you. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys baking or simply wants a delightful escape!
🎧 Audio Update:
I already loved this book enough to give it five stars, but listening to it reminded me why I fell in love with it in the first place. Brandon Francis and Autumn Mercer absolutely knocked it out of the park. They captured Taylor’s sunshine personality and Alex’s grumpy charm perfectly, making every laugh, every heartfelt moment, and every bit of chemistry feel so real. They truly brought these characters to life. If Goodreads let me give more than five stars for the audiobook, I would in a heartbeat. I’m so incredibly proud of Kassie Jones for bringing this story to audio it deserves every bit of the love it’s getting. ❤️🎧
April 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
Bake It ’Til You Make It by Kassie Jones was an absolute delight from start to finish! This book had me smiling, giggling, and completely hooked on every page.
Taylor and Alex’s story is everything I love in a romance. The flirty banter? Top tier. Their chemistry jumped off the page, and the grumpy x sunshine dynamic was executed so well and it never felt forced, just perfectly natural and so much fun to read. Watching Alex’s walls slowly come down while Taylor stayed bright, chaotic, and unapologetically herself was incredibly satisfying.
And the setting? A baking reality competition show filled with chaos, drama, pressure, and sweet treats! Yes, please!
This book had the perfect balance of heart, tension, and swoony moments. If you love grumpy/sunshine, flirty banter, and a unique setting, this is definitely one to pick up!
Bake It ’Til You Make It by Kassie Jones was an absolute delight from start to finish! This book had me smiling, giggling, and completely hooked on every page.
Taylor and Alex’s story is everything I love in a romance. The flirty banter? Top tier. Their chemistry jumped off the page, and the grumpy x sunshine dynamic was executed so well and it never felt forced, just perfectly natural and so much fun to read. Watching Alex’s walls slowly come down while Taylor stayed bright, chaotic, and unapologetically herself was incredibly satisfying.
And the setting? A baking reality competition show filled with chaos, drama, pressure, and sweet treats! Yes, please!
This book had the perfect balance of heart, tension, and swoony moments. If you love grumpy/sunshine, flirty banter, and a unique setting, this is definitely one to pick up!
August 11, 2026
If you are looking for a low stakes, cutsie, rom-com with a baking theme then this is a good option. The audiobook is performed in duet narration and was a very easy listen. Both narrators did a great job.
August 8, 2026
Okay, this book started rough for me. The female narrator's voice was so annoying that I had actual thoughts about DNFing this book solely because of it. But I'm glad I kept going, because a couple hours in I got used to her voice and it got better. Both narrators ended up doing a great job overall.
The audio mixing had some hiccups too. The volume kept fluctuating at random points and it pulled me right out of the immersion.
Once I got past that rough start though, I had a great time. I'm obsessed with cooking shows so this premise was basically made for me, and the grumpy x sunshine trope promised a lot.
The romance itself felt a bit forced though. I'm not really a fan of insta love, and I didn't really see why they fell in love. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed how protective the MMC was of the FMC. That dynamic worked for me even when the rest of the romance didn't fully land.
The drama of the reality show really got me invested, I ate it up.
All in all, I had a good time even though the beginning was a bit rough.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The audio mixing had some hiccups too. The volume kept fluctuating at random points and it pulled me right out of the immersion.
Once I got past that rough start though, I had a great time. I'm obsessed with cooking shows so this premise was basically made for me, and the grumpy x sunshine trope promised a lot.
The romance itself felt a bit forced though. I'm not really a fan of insta love, and I didn't really see why they fell in love. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed how protective the MMC was of the FMC. That dynamic worked for me even when the rest of the romance didn't fully land.
The drama of the reality show really got me invested, I ate it up.
All in all, I had a good time even though the beginning was a bit rough.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 17, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such a fun, sweet, and delicious romance! 🧁💕 I absolutely loved the baking competition setting and the chemistry between the characters. Taylor is so easy to root for with her big dreams, creative spirit, and adorable determination, while Alexander has that cocky, gorgeous competitor attitude that makes their banter even more entertaining.
The rivals-to-lovers tension was SO good, and I loved watching their competition slowly turn into something sweeter. The chemistry, playful moments, and forced proximity kept me completely invested.
And the narration by Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis was fantastic! 🎧 They brought the characters to life perfectly and made all the flirting, banter, and emotional moments even more enjoyable.
If you love rivals-to-lovers, forced proximity, baking competitions, witty banter, and delicious chemistry, this is definitely one to add to your TBR! 🧁❤️🔥
A fun, flirty, feel-good romance that left me wanting more! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such a fun, sweet, and delicious romance! 🧁💕 I absolutely loved the baking competition setting and the chemistry between the characters. Taylor is so easy to root for with her big dreams, creative spirit, and adorable determination, while Alexander has that cocky, gorgeous competitor attitude that makes their banter even more entertaining.
The rivals-to-lovers tension was SO good, and I loved watching their competition slowly turn into something sweeter. The chemistry, playful moments, and forced proximity kept me completely invested.
And the narration by Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis was fantastic! 🎧 They brought the characters to life perfectly and made all the flirting, banter, and emotional moments even more enjoyable.
If you love rivals-to-lovers, forced proximity, baking competitions, witty banter, and delicious chemistry, this is definitely one to add to your TBR! 🧁❤️🔥
A fun, flirty, feel-good romance that left me wanting more! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 26, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
What to expect:
- Grumpy Sunshine
- Reality Tv show competition
- Flirty banter
I loved the story of Taylor a home baker who is picked to join America’s Next Great Baker. A reality TV show baking competition. She meets Alex- a chef with lots of training and a famous family in the culinary world from Vancouver. Alex and Taylor are polar opposites- Alex being the grumpy bear and Taylor being a ray of sunshine!
Initially they can’t stand each other but eventually sparks fly between them! This is story has hallmark movie vibes with the perfect amount of spice!
My second book by this author and definitely becoming one of my favorites!
Advance review of an ARC in exchange for an honest review
What to expect:
- Grumpy Sunshine
- Reality Tv show competition
- Flirty banter
I loved the story of Taylor a home baker who is picked to join America’s Next Great Baker. A reality TV show baking competition. She meets Alex- a chef with lots of training and a famous family in the culinary world from Vancouver. Alex and Taylor are polar opposites- Alex being the grumpy bear and Taylor being a ray of sunshine!
Initially they can’t stand each other but eventually sparks fly between them! This is story has hallmark movie vibes with the perfect amount of spice!
My second book by this author and definitely becoming one of my favorites!
Advance review of an ARC in exchange for an honest review
June 2, 2026
This was such a fun read! I could definitely see alllllll of the Great British Bake Off inspiration - to the point where I was imagining those hosts instead of the characters provided. It didn't bother me, though. I enjoyed the characters, and I enjoyed the relationship, though the third-act issue made me slightly sad, even if I did see it coming.
Overall, a wonderful read.
1 full sex scene.
Overall, a wonderful read.
1 full sex scene.
August 11, 2026
A fun and sweet romcom
If you're looking for a romcom that really brings all the feels, then make sure to check out Bake It 'Til You Make It. Taylor is such a relatable character, and I loved seeing her progression throughout the novel. I am so excited to read more of Kassie's work as this one was so good.
If you're looking for a romcom that really brings all the feels, then make sure to check out Bake It 'Til You Make It. Taylor is such a relatable character, and I loved seeing her progression throughout the novel. I am so excited to read more of Kassie's work as this one was so good.
August 13, 2026
solid 3.5 This was an adorable meet cute, America's next top baker meet reality TV, fast paced, grumpy meets sunshine and of course he falls hard. throw in a lil TV Drama and you've got a good time.
April 30, 2026
I don’t usually reach for this kind of story… but I’m really glad I did.
This was such a sweet surprise—cute and light on the surface, but with enough depth to make you feel something. I found myself genuinely rooting for the characters and getting emotionally invested. Taylor and Alex had that effortless banter that kept me hooked, and the slow burn… it worked. The tension built so naturally that by the time it hit, I was all in.
I loved how their rivalry slowly unraveled into something deeper, the lines between competition and connection blurring in a way that felt completely natural. It never felt forced—just two people who didn’t expect to matter to each other… and then suddenly did.
And now I need Julian and Kara’s story immediately because I already have a feeling that one is going to wreck me in the best way.
This one stuck with me in the best way. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Rom Com
Flirty Banter
Rivals to Lovers
Slow Burn
This was such a sweet surprise—cute and light on the surface, but with enough depth to make you feel something. I found myself genuinely rooting for the characters and getting emotionally invested. Taylor and Alex had that effortless banter that kept me hooked, and the slow burn… it worked. The tension built so naturally that by the time it hit, I was all in.
I loved how their rivalry slowly unraveled into something deeper, the lines between competition and connection blurring in a way that felt completely natural. It never felt forced—just two people who didn’t expect to matter to each other… and then suddenly did.
And now I need Julian and Kara’s story immediately because I already have a feeling that one is going to wreck me in the best way.
This one stuck with me in the best way. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Rom Com
Flirty Banter
Rivals to Lovers
Slow Burn
August 5, 2026
Bake It ‘Til You Make It by Kassie Jones - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to The Space Network and Kassie Jones for this ARC!
If The Great British Bake Off and MTV’s The Real World had a baby, it would be this 🤭
Bake It ‘Til You Make It follows optimistic, sunshine personified Taylor Madden as she competes on America’s Next Great Baker to open her own bakery and clashes with the serious, talented Alex Harrington, leading to an enemies-to-lovers romance filled with banter, forced proximity, and sugary-sweet moments as their rivalry slowly turns into attraction. A fun, lighthearted read with a delightful mix of baking show drama (complete with production team shenanigans For The Reality TV of it all 👀) and romance!
"Bake It 'Til You Make It" by Kassie Jones was emotionally devastating (in the best way). I tracked my reading the whole way through (shoutout to The Space Network for making it so simple!) and hit "Addictive" at least 4 times—this book has serious pull! The moment around page 281 had me completely floored, I did NOT see that coming. Around page 338, I was fully in my feelings — I'm *still* not okay 🥺 It was also absolutely addictive, I genuinely couldn't put it down! One moment that really stuck with me: that first time she makes Alex laugh 🤭 such a sweet moment in the midst of the rocky start to their relationship! What I loved most about this book was that Taylor and Alex and their relationship felt *realistic* — no spoilers, but nothing about how their story ended felt random or convenient. And EVERYONE needs a friend like Kara! 🥹
If you love emotional reads that stay with you, this one is for you. Highly, HIGHLY recommend! The ebook is available now, and keep your ears open for the audiobook available to request now on NetGalley, and publishing August 15th!
Thank you so much to The Space Network and Kassie Jones for this ARC!
If The Great British Bake Off and MTV’s The Real World had a baby, it would be this 🤭
Bake It ‘Til You Make It follows optimistic, sunshine personified Taylor Madden as she competes on America’s Next Great Baker to open her own bakery and clashes with the serious, talented Alex Harrington, leading to an enemies-to-lovers romance filled with banter, forced proximity, and sugary-sweet moments as their rivalry slowly turns into attraction. A fun, lighthearted read with a delightful mix of baking show drama (complete with production team shenanigans For The Reality TV of it all 👀) and romance!
"Bake It 'Til You Make It" by Kassie Jones was emotionally devastating (in the best way). I tracked my reading the whole way through (shoutout to The Space Network for making it so simple!) and hit "Addictive" at least 4 times—this book has serious pull! The moment around page 281 had me completely floored, I did NOT see that coming. Around page 338, I was fully in my feelings — I'm *still* not okay 🥺 It was also absolutely addictive, I genuinely couldn't put it down! One moment that really stuck with me: that first time she makes Alex laugh 🤭 such a sweet moment in the midst of the rocky start to their relationship! What I loved most about this book was that Taylor and Alex and their relationship felt *realistic* — no spoilers, but nothing about how their story ended felt random or convenient. And EVERYONE needs a friend like Kara! 🥹
If you love emotional reads that stay with you, this one is for you. Highly, HIGHLY recommend! The ebook is available now, and keep your ears open for the audiobook available to request now on NetGalley, and publishing August 15th!
June 9, 2026
Taylor Madden’s dream has always been to own her own bakery..a place with delicious smells and delectable treats where people can come together and celebrate and enjoy a sense of community in a welcoming environment. When she finds out that she has been selected as a contestant for a new reality show, “America’s Next Great Baker”, she believes that her dream might actually come true.
Alexander Harrington is the son of a very well to do Canadian restauranteur who is looking to expand his business into America. Alex’s dad enters him into this competition as a way to make a favorable impression in the States, therefore help in that business expansion. If Alex agrees and cooperates, his father will finance the restaurant he and his cousin Julian have been dreaming of opening. Alex does not want to be there, but knows he has to perform to get what he needs from his father.
From the start of filming, Alex is frustrated with the “too good to be true”, always late, whirlwind of a force that is Taylor. But will his frustrations continue as the competition progresses, or will there be something cooking up between these two seemingly polar opposites?
This book pulled me in from the beginning! It had all the ingredients I look for in a great book: main characters that are layered and can carry a story, interesting side characters that you come to care about, and the PLOT! I love a good story that hooks the reader and keeps them invested in what is going to happen. This one was baked to perfection! I highly recommend! Five stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alexander Harrington is the son of a very well to do Canadian restauranteur who is looking to expand his business into America. Alex’s dad enters him into this competition as a way to make a favorable impression in the States, therefore help in that business expansion. If Alex agrees and cooperates, his father will finance the restaurant he and his cousin Julian have been dreaming of opening. Alex does not want to be there, but knows he has to perform to get what he needs from his father.
From the start of filming, Alex is frustrated with the “too good to be true”, always late, whirlwind of a force that is Taylor. But will his frustrations continue as the competition progresses, or will there be something cooking up between these two seemingly polar opposites?
This book pulled me in from the beginning! It had all the ingredients I look for in a great book: main characters that are layered and can carry a story, interesting side characters that you come to care about, and the PLOT! I love a good story that hooks the reader and keeps them invested in what is going to happen. This one was baked to perfection! I highly recommend! Five stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 18, 2026
4.5 star sweet and spicy read - couldn’t put it down
🧁✨ ARC Review: Bake It ’Til You Make It ✨🧁
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
This was such a sweet and spicy read 🧁🌶️💗
Taylor is sunshine in human form ☀️ She’s kind, bubbly, and infectious. But behind that smile, she’s stuck in a job that leaves her barely making ends meet. Getting the chance to compete on America’s Next Great Baker is the opportunity she’s been waiting for.
Then there’s Alex… 👨🍳🇨🇦
A Canadian chef from a Michelin-starred restaurant family, Alex is intimidating, respected, and known for being the best in the kitchen. But the pressure and expectations from his family have taken away some of the joy he once had for baking.
The grumpy x sunshine vibes were EVERYTHING ☀️🖤 Alex is instantly drawn to Taylor, even though she’s everything he’s not. He tries to fight the attraction, but he just can’t stay away from her. Their chemistry, banter, and sweet moments made this romance so much fun to read.
The reality TV baking competition was such a fun addition and honestly made this book hard to put down. I loved the friendships, the drama, and watching these two figure out what they really want.
A sweet and spicy romance with delicious chemistry, lots of heart, and a couple you can’t help but root for! 🧁❤️
Tropes:
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧁 Reality TV Competition
👨🍳 Chef Romance
❤️ Opposites Attract
🔥 He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
🧁✨ ARC Review: Bake It ’Til You Make It ✨🧁
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
This was such a sweet and spicy read 🧁🌶️💗
Taylor is sunshine in human form ☀️ She’s kind, bubbly, and infectious. But behind that smile, she’s stuck in a job that leaves her barely making ends meet. Getting the chance to compete on America’s Next Great Baker is the opportunity she’s been waiting for.
Then there’s Alex… 👨🍳🇨🇦
A Canadian chef from a Michelin-starred restaurant family, Alex is intimidating, respected, and known for being the best in the kitchen. But the pressure and expectations from his family have taken away some of the joy he once had for baking.
The grumpy x sunshine vibes were EVERYTHING ☀️🖤 Alex is instantly drawn to Taylor, even though she’s everything he’s not. He tries to fight the attraction, but he just can’t stay away from her. Their chemistry, banter, and sweet moments made this romance so much fun to read.
The reality TV baking competition was such a fun addition and honestly made this book hard to put down. I loved the friendships, the drama, and watching these two figure out what they really want.
A sweet and spicy romance with delicious chemistry, lots of heart, and a couple you can’t help but root for! 🧁❤️
Tropes:
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧁 Reality TV Competition
👨🍳 Chef Romance
❤️ Opposites Attract
🔥 He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
August 5, 2026
I am a sucker for GBBO and the grumpyXsunshine trope, so reading this book was a no brainer. I appreciated the duet narration that brought these characters to life off the pages– they captured their personalities perfectly.
This book genuinely feels like watching a series of GBBO at super speed. It perfectly balances playfully summarizing more mellow challenges and highlighting challenges with higher intensity with more depth and expanded storytelling. Our MMC and FMC interact sparingly with one another for the first 30% or so of the book until– surprise, surprise, surprise… they obviously get forced to work together in a paired challenge. Even if you know where things are going (HEA), you still enjoy every second of the ride and their interactions will put a smile on your face. The baking competition storyline is the forefront of this tale, with their romance artfully weaved into it. It’s a cute, short, sweet read.
Be sure to grab a copy when it’s released on August 15, 2026!
Thank you to Kassie Jones, K. Jones Ink, and Victory Editing Netgalley Co-Op for providing this ALC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book genuinely feels like watching a series of GBBO at super speed. It perfectly balances playfully summarizing more mellow challenges and highlighting challenges with higher intensity with more depth and expanded storytelling. Our MMC and FMC interact sparingly with one another for the first 30% or so of the book until– surprise, surprise, surprise… they obviously get forced to work together in a paired challenge. Even if you know where things are going (HEA), you still enjoy every second of the ride and their interactions will put a smile on your face. The baking competition storyline is the forefront of this tale, with their romance artfully weaved into it. It’s a cute, short, sweet read.
Be sure to grab a copy when it’s released on August 15, 2026!
Thank you to Kassie Jones, K. Jones Ink, and Victory Editing Netgalley Co-Op for providing this ALC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 7, 2026
Bake It Til You Make It by Kassie Jones
Narrated by Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis
Narrators did a wonderful job of bringing their characters life and it was enjoyable to listen to.
I maybe alone here but the introduction to both characters just annoyed me and then I can’t help but find things that irritate me in the story.
On meeting each MC we learn Alex is a dick and Taylor seems to be a bit of a trainwreck.
I’m not a huge fan of “reality” tv and this story cemented that view
My biggest issue with this story is that we are told the MCs like each other but are rarely shown anything to back this up
Why is a Canadian on the first season of an American cooking show?
Why are they paying for people to live in a house for the whole week and do nothing except for weekends? Now we are shooting extra things during the week and Taylor isn’t there – don’t think that is how this works
6 months of text barely check ins – that’s a nope
If you like baking and cooking shows this book is for you
Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and Kassie Jones for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Narrated by Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis
Narrators did a wonderful job of bringing their characters life and it was enjoyable to listen to.
I maybe alone here but the introduction to both characters just annoyed me and then I can’t help but find things that irritate me in the story.
On meeting each MC we learn Alex is a dick and Taylor seems to be a bit of a trainwreck.
I’m not a huge fan of “reality” tv and this story cemented that view
My biggest issue with this story is that we are told the MCs like each other but are rarely shown anything to back this up
Why is a Canadian on the first season of an American cooking show?
Why are they paying for people to live in a house for the whole week and do nothing except for weekends? Now we are shooting extra things during the week and Taylor isn’t there – don’t think that is how this works
6 months of text barely check ins – that’s a nope
If you like baking and cooking shows this book is for you
Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and Kassie Jones for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
August 3, 2026
Bake It 'Til You Make It was such a sweet surprise!
Taylor's sunshine personality was absolutely infectious, and I couldn't help but root for her from the very beginning. Alex took a little longer to win me over. At first he seemed guarded and closed off, but as I got to know him, he completely won me over. Watching his growth throughout the story ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book.
The baking competition gave the romance a unique backdrop that made it even more enjoyable, and the final chapters had me completely hooked. I kept telling myself I'd stop after one more chapter, but I couldn't go to sleep until I finished the book.
And I have to mention... every time Alex called Taylor "Pretty Girl," I melted just a little.
This was my first book by Kassie Jones, but it definitely won't be my last. If you love grumpy/sunshine romances with heart, humor, and a fun baking competition, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
I'm also crossing my fingers that we get more of Kara and Julian someday!
Taylor's sunshine personality was absolutely infectious, and I couldn't help but root for her from the very beginning. Alex took a little longer to win me over. At first he seemed guarded and closed off, but as I got to know him, he completely won me over. Watching his growth throughout the story ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book.
The baking competition gave the romance a unique backdrop that made it even more enjoyable, and the final chapters had me completely hooked. I kept telling myself I'd stop after one more chapter, but I couldn't go to sleep until I finished the book.
And I have to mention... every time Alex called Taylor "Pretty Girl," I melted just a little.
This was my first book by Kassie Jones, but it definitely won't be my last. If you love grumpy/sunshine romances with heart, humor, and a fun baking competition, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
I'm also crossing my fingers that we get more of Kara and Julian someday!
August 14, 2026
I was lucky enough to be granted access to the ALC via Netgalley (and it's a DUET!!!)
I expected this to be cozy and cute but it had a lot of genuine human points if connectivity. Yes, the FMC is a bit of a manic pixie dream girl, but she also has real life responsibilities and fears rather than just being completely happy-go-lucky. She does also crash into everything to an embarrassing degree.
The MMC is Canadian, written by an American, and is fortunately free from stereotypes. He's grumpy, sophisticated, believes Canada is more beautiful than LA, is a perfectionist, comes from a well-known family, and isn't afraid to make big business moves on a whim. (Tho firing someone over garnishes does seem a bit much imo).
Favorite quotes that I'll need to talk to my therapist about cause I feel called out by them:
-"I've always believed feelings need their time before you send them on their way."
-"You hate being seen trying, wouldn't want to accidentally let everyone know you want something."
I expected this to be cozy and cute but it had a lot of genuine human points if connectivity. Yes, the FMC is a bit of a manic pixie dream girl, but she also has real life responsibilities and fears rather than just being completely happy-go-lucky. She does also crash into everything to an embarrassing degree.
The MMC is Canadian, written by an American, and is fortunately free from stereotypes. He's grumpy, sophisticated, believes Canada is more beautiful than LA, is a perfectionist, comes from a well-known family, and isn't afraid to make big business moves on a whim. (Tho firing someone over garnishes does seem a bit much imo).
Favorite quotes that I'll need to talk to my therapist about cause I feel called out by them:
-"I've always believed feelings need their time before you send them on their way."
-"You hate being seen trying, wouldn't want to accidentally let everyone know you want something."
June 3, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book!!
When literal ray of sunshine Taylor is accepted into a baking reality competition, it feels like she is on the precipice of all her dreams finally coming true. What she doesn’t expect is to run into the storm cloud that is Alex, who has been forced into the competition by his father against his wishes. As you can imagine, with the combination of the two, plus reality tv cameras and producers lurking and ready to sow discord, hijinks ensue!!
What I love about this book is our FMC, Taylor. She is the perfect “sunshine” to the grumpy x sunshine trope, but not in a way that is naive or cliche. She really does make your day better reading her journey as a character! I also love how organic and genuine the connection between Taylor and Alex is. There is also an F it moment that had me giggling and kicking my feet!
If you’re looking for a sweet, cute, and fun contemporary romance with great, lovable characters, this is it!! Easy five stars!
When literal ray of sunshine Taylor is accepted into a baking reality competition, it feels like she is on the precipice of all her dreams finally coming true. What she doesn’t expect is to run into the storm cloud that is Alex, who has been forced into the competition by his father against his wishes. As you can imagine, with the combination of the two, plus reality tv cameras and producers lurking and ready to sow discord, hijinks ensue!!
What I love about this book is our FMC, Taylor. She is the perfect “sunshine” to the grumpy x sunshine trope, but not in a way that is naive or cliche. She really does make your day better reading her journey as a character! I also love how organic and genuine the connection between Taylor and Alex is. There is also an F it moment that had me giggling and kicking my feet!
If you’re looking for a sweet, cute, and fun contemporary romance with great, lovable characters, this is it!! Easy five stars!
July 19, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Tropes:
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧁 Reality TV Competition
👨🍳 Chef Romance
❤️ Opposites Attract
🔥 He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
A huge thank you to the SPACE Network for allowing me the opportunity to read Bake It ‘Til You Make It.
So for us in the UK, it’s like the Great British Bake Off but BETTER!
Bake It ‘Til You Make It….it’s official, you have won your way into my heart! 🩷
Taylor and Alex are complete opposites. One is a grumpy stormy rain cloud and the other is a sparkly and bright ball of sunshine.
Taylor is the best kind of chaos, who’s infectious energy helps take down Alex’s wall whilst competing in a baking show. Taylor has a dram of owning her very own bakery and this is what drives her. Alex kind of ends up getting swept up in the adventure….reluctantly!! which takes their relationship on a journey filled with so much laughter and a very unexpected romance
This is the best kind of book if you’re looking for a fast paced, super fun and swoon worthy romance.
I thoroughly enjoyed every page 🩷
Tropes:
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧁 Reality TV Competition
👨🍳 Chef Romance
❤️ Opposites Attract
🔥 He Falls First
✨ Forced Proximity
A huge thank you to the SPACE Network for allowing me the opportunity to read Bake It ‘Til You Make It.
So for us in the UK, it’s like the Great British Bake Off but BETTER!
Bake It ‘Til You Make It….it’s official, you have won your way into my heart! 🩷
Taylor and Alex are complete opposites. One is a grumpy stormy rain cloud and the other is a sparkly and bright ball of sunshine.
Taylor is the best kind of chaos, who’s infectious energy helps take down Alex’s wall whilst competing in a baking show. Taylor has a dram of owning her very own bakery and this is what drives her. Alex kind of ends up getting swept up in the adventure….reluctantly!! which takes their relationship on a journey filled with so much laughter and a very unexpected romance
This is the best kind of book if you’re looking for a fast paced, super fun and swoon worthy romance.
I thoroughly enjoyed every page 🩷
July 22, 2026
Bake It ‘Til You Make It perfected the sweetest rom-com recipe. It takes place in a baking reality TV show setting, giving the most cutesy love story vibes. The FMC, Taylor, is a burst of sunshine who tries to see the best in everyone and dreams big no matter the circumstances.
Her memorable arrival on the first day invites her to meet the MMC, Alex. Unlike Taylor, he sees the world in a more pragmatic manner, dealing with his internal struggles while his father signed him up for the show.
During the show’s 10 weeks, the two warm up to each other, despite a rocky start. And cue the cutest moments, banter, and everything cake!
Overall, I would give this book 5/5 stars. I enjoyed Kassie Jones’ writing style and character development. This book officially enters my favorite 2026 Summer Reads!
If you love fresh rom-coms, baking, and lovable characters, this book is perfect for you!
Thank you Space Network and Kassie Jones for the review copy!
Grumpy x Sunshine
Reality TV Setting
Opposites Attract
Rom Com
Lovable Characters
Cute Banter
Quirky FMC
Grand Gesture
Her memorable arrival on the first day invites her to meet the MMC, Alex. Unlike Taylor, he sees the world in a more pragmatic manner, dealing with his internal struggles while his father signed him up for the show.
During the show’s 10 weeks, the two warm up to each other, despite a rocky start. And cue the cutest moments, banter, and everything cake!
Overall, I would give this book 5/5 stars. I enjoyed Kassie Jones’ writing style and character development. This book officially enters my favorite 2026 Summer Reads!
If you love fresh rom-coms, baking, and lovable characters, this book is perfect for you!
Thank you Space Network and Kassie Jones for the review copy!
Grumpy x Sunshine
Reality TV Setting
Opposites Attract
Rom Com
Lovable Characters
Cute Banter
Quirky FMC
Grand Gesture
August 15, 2026
I needed a cozy romance to get me through the week and this funny bakers competition had all the things. Rivals to lovers, opposites attract and he falls first. If you love baking competition this is the book for you. It’s the inside scoop of what goes on and how the drama is created. The rivals were grumpy and sunshine and I was here for it. That pinning was so good. I enjoyed how the story played out and was happy with this romance. This was narrated by Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis both are new to me narrators. They had engaging voices and he characters personalities came across really well. The demanding spicy voice of Brandon can definitely hold up to the top narrators. The chapters flowed nicely together with no lags or long pauses for a great overall production. The volume levels we perfect and equal and I would definitely listen to these narrators again.
August 5, 2026
Thank you victory editing and NetGalley for the audio ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bake It ’Til You Make It was such a cute and fun listen! I absolutely loved the dual narration both narrators did a fantastic job bringing Taylor and Alexander to life and made the chemistry between them even more enjoyable.
The baking competition setting was so much fun, and I loved watching the rivals to romance relationship unfold. Taylor’s dream of owning her own bakery and Alexander’s grumpy, competitive personality balanced each other perfectly. There were plenty of sweet, funny moments that kept me smiling throughout.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted romance with great narration, baking show vibes, and an adorable love story, this one is definitely worth picking up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bake It ’Til You Make It was such a cute and fun listen! I absolutely loved the dual narration both narrators did a fantastic job bringing Taylor and Alexander to life and made the chemistry between them even more enjoyable.
The baking competition setting was so much fun, and I loved watching the rivals to romance relationship unfold. Taylor’s dream of owning her own bakery and Alexander’s grumpy, competitive personality balanced each other perfectly. There were plenty of sweet, funny moments that kept me smiling throughout.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted romance with great narration, baking show vibes, and an adorable love story, this one is definitely worth picking up!
April 28, 2026
This book had me from the Truchbull reference in Chapter 1. Go Order It. You need it. I needed it. There’s a Reality Baking Show done so well I was invested as much as I am watching The Great British Baking Show, impeccable! Between the very beyond serious, all business, MMC that cannot resist softening for the Completely Sunshine FMC who is chaos embodied in human form that is steadied by him, I was rooting so hard for them! Life is always lifting in fiction and real life so it wasn’t all cupcakes and sprinkles (had to). It was definitely worth the ride! The supporting cast of characters really added to the depth of the story. So if you like smiling and swooning it’s time to order yours!
July 16, 2026
This is a delightfully fun read. It begins with Taylor, a young woman who wants to own her own bakery. She ends up entering a baking competition in which she is reunited with an enemy Alex , who slowly becomes a lover. The competition is filled with drama , pressure and tension .
It’s a slow burn romance and my favorite part was the emotional moments that had me swooning. It’s a heartwarming and fun romance that Taylor and Alex have. Each supporting the other. The banter between the couple is fun and witty. It made me laugh til I cried. It’s a charming story that reminds you why you love,Love .
It’s a slow burn romance and my favorite part was the emotional moments that had me swooning. It’s a heartwarming and fun romance that Taylor and Alex have. Each supporting the other. The banter between the couple is fun and witty. It made me laugh til I cried. It’s a charming story that reminds you why you love,Love .
July 22, 2026
This is a Great British Bake Off meets Rom-Com. You follow along 2 very different main characters on their journey on the America’s new show, America’s Next Great Baker. Taylor and Alex, Taylor is a fun loving and happy FMC and Alex is a grumpy over serious MMC.
Bake it til you make it is a very easy read. The spice is there but not too much where I would consider this “smut.” However, the tension between Taylor and Alex is heavy! If you love baking shows and rom-coms, this is a great mix between the two.
Kassie Jones has won over my heart with this book. I look forward to reading more books from her.
Bake it til you make it is a very easy read. The spice is there but not too much where I would consider this “smut.” However, the tension between Taylor and Alex is heavy! If you love baking shows and rom-coms, this is a great mix between the two.
Kassie Jones has won over my heart with this book. I look forward to reading more books from her.
August 5, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to Victory Editing, NetGalley, and Kassie Jones for the ALC!
This was such a fun listen!! I haven’t read any cooking or baking romance books, but I absolutely loved this one. Reality TV, baking competition, drama and tension between not only Taylor and Alex but the other contestants.
This book is duet narration. Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis did a great job at distinguishing between Taylor, Alex, and the side characters. The different tones and accents for characters were consistent and sounded fantastic!
If you’re looking for a cute contemporary romance with lots of baking, drama, and an FMC that is following her dreams, this audio is for you!!
Thank you to Victory Editing, NetGalley, and Kassie Jones for the ALC!
This was such a fun listen!! I haven’t read any cooking or baking romance books, but I absolutely loved this one. Reality TV, baking competition, drama and tension between not only Taylor and Alex but the other contestants.
This book is duet narration. Autumn Mercer and Brandon Francis did a great job at distinguishing between Taylor, Alex, and the side characters. The different tones and accents for characters were consistent and sounded fantastic!
If you’re looking for a cute contemporary romance with lots of baking, drama, and an FMC that is following her dreams, this audio is for you!!
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