Bake It 'Til You Make It

by Kassie Jones

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?

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

Lifelong 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.

Reviews

[Rebecka Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Heather Bausch · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Michelle Lima · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (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!

[Kristen Bolding · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Nellie aka Cult Menace · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[ChristysChapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Shaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️.5
🧁Grumpy x Sunshine
🧁The Banter
🧁Baking Competition
🧁Competitors to Lovers

‘Holy.Freaking.Cupcakes’ Taylor Madden is literally walking sunshine! And Alex Herrington is the definition of ‘Grumpy Bear’. And When they meet on a reality tv baking competition heads butt at first, then sparks fly. I loved the character development they both have as they come into themselves outside of their family names and soul sucking jobs. Thank you to Kassie Jones for allowing me an arc to read early. I am beyond obsessed!

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance story with a Great British Bake Show style baking competition where the fmc and mmc compete against each other… SAY LESS! IMMEDIATELY YES!
It was such a fun read. I loved this book 👏🏼so 👏🏼much! A grumpy x sunshine romance where the broody mmc wins your heart, makes you swoon and leaves you sad for the story end. ❤️ He is wealthy, grumpy, annoyed with everyone and everything. She is bubbly ball of sunshine with bouncy golden curls. They are complete opposites but so perfect for each other. I cannot wait for what comes next. I see you Julian and Kara 😉☺️

[Jessica Good · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sunshine/Grumpy rom-com

I love Taylor and Alex. If it weren’t for plans I would have read this in a sitting. Such a good read!!

[Lb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor (FMC) is on the struggle bus she's in a dead end job that is sucking the life from her... and not even paying well as evidenced by her late payment due notices but then she gets the most amazing news... She's going to be a contestant on America's Next Great Baker a new reality show that mixes all of those cute cozy baking competitions but they are taking it up a notch by the show following them while at their shared house as well (think Real world or Big Brother).

Where Taylor is a walking ray of sunshine Alex (MMC) is the exact opposite he is uptight and grumpy he didn't even want to come and he was voluntold by his dad that if he didn't come to this show and put up a real effort his dreams will be gone before they even starts... and he and his cousin have worked too hard to throw it away now... besides there are a few good things he's found about this competition like Taylor for instance her sunny disposition might just crack thru his layers before this competition is over.

Alex might take some people a bit to warm up to but he gets there eventually! I really liked him even when he was the king of Grumps he just takes a bit to warm up to people.

This was a fun cozy read there were a lot of cute moments between our couple and I loved watching them fall for each other and support each other through the ups and downs of the competition. The MMC stands up for what is right even if he knows that it could possibly ruin his chances in the competition I love a protective MMC.

I love watching those baking competitions and the author did a really great job making that part of the book just like the actual shows... even with the corny jokes from the host and judges.

I also enjoyed that the story didn't end when the show ended, Taylor and Alex had to actually work to keep something going after leaving their reality show bubble and going back to their real lives and Alex lived in Canada while Taylor lived in California this felt very real their relationship wasn't easy and the ending felt earned.

I was excited to get my hands on this one and wasn't disappointed this book was a delightful feel-good read. If you enjoy baking competitions, rom-coms, and characters with heart grab this one it comes out soon! Thank you Kassie for letting me read this book early I loved it 💓

book blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...

*Rom-Com *Grumpy/Sunshine *Flirty Banter *Cozy read *Baking competition

*Reality TV Hijinks *protective MMC *lighter spice *loveable leads and side characters

*state Challenge (California repeat state) *Rivals to More *Indie Author *ARC 2026

[Angela Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you like the Sunshine X Grumpy trope? How about a he fell 1st trope? And what about a book where the MMC is willing to throw everything away to ensure that the FMC succeeds?
If you said yes to one or all of those, then this book is for you.
I got this book as an Advance Reader Copy and let me tell you the author is so friendly and nice.
Bake It to Make It is a dual POV Between our sunshine struggling FMC and grumpy rich MMC. Each chapter ranges back-and-forth between the two of our main characters with some cute designs for the characters names for the chapter headings.
We first meet Taylor, our lovely sunshine FMC, a girl laden with debt, working in a droll thankless job, with a boss that her and her friend compare to Trunchbull from Matilda. I gotta say I laughed so hard at that reference. After being convinced by her friend to apply for this baking show, we start the book off with her receiving an acceptance e-mail. She’s thrilled because this will give her the opportunity to showcase her baking to the world, as well as potentially fulfill her dream of one day owning a bakery, should things go well. Then we meet our grumpy MMC, Alex, a guy who comes from a rich family in Canada, who while once being full of dreams and enjoyment, is now practically precise and grumpy, having the light and dreams snuffed out of him by his overbearing father.

Throughout the book I was overjoyed to see how descriptive the scenery was, including scents such as one scene where it describes the air carrying citrus and fresh-cut grass. Every scene I could imagine it as if I were there. I learned what a religieuse was, I had never heard of it before. Also, the scenes for the baking show had me feeling like I could be watching this on tv. I’ve seen many baking shows in my life and this book hit the nail on the head with the energy for those scenes.
If you would like to see how the tale between Alex and Taylor concludes I suggest picking up a copy, because I’m not about to spoil it for you 😉

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I went into this thinking "cute baking romance" and then I couldn't put it down...like...at all. Ok, I had so much fun with this one.

We follow Taylor, our FMC, who gets into this baking competition show that will totally change her life. And then enters Alexander, our MMC, and her biggest competition. And of course, the one person she can't seem to ignore. This book really leans into the grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract tropes and the banter is so much fun. It's a little flirty and a little sharp and you can feel this tension building the more time that they are stuck together trying to (kinda) outdo each other.
Alexander is very much into this "I'm here for a purpose and not to make friends" kind of era. He's super focused and frustrating, but then you start to see those moments where he's clearly affected by her-even if he doesn't want to be-and I LOVED THAT.
Also, the whole baking show setup was just so much fun. Kassie was able to delve behind the scenes of this reality show and show you the inner workings of how these things are produced and how "reality" is definitley different from the "reality" that we are shown on TV.
I was smiling and laughing through this--some tears--and I was absolutely fully invested. I literally stayed up until 1am reading and I only got halfway through. I was so sad that I had to go to bed and I had to finish the book the next day.
Another thing I really loved is that the ending for the couple didn't necessarily end when the show ended. I'm not going to give any spoilers, but you are going to be pleasantly surprised.
So, if you like romcoms, reality tv shows, baking, flirty banter, grumpy/sunshines and so much wonderful tension, this is such a good one to pick up. For all these reasons, I give Bake it Till You Make it five stars. And just be warned-competition shows are going to hit a little different after this one.

[Melissa Hess · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
🧁👧🍰👨‍🍳

5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶

Bake it 'Til you Make it by Kassie Jones
Release Date: April 28th 2026

This book was so freaking cute! I loved it so much.

We all love a sunshine girly and a grumpy man ❤️
That is exactly what you get in this book. Taylor and Alex are incredible, the story is incredible. I couldn't put it down. Kassie knocked it out of the park.
Taylor is a hot mess and I loved every second of it, she has a big dream and the opportunity to play it out when shes accepted to Americas Next Great Baker competition. I loved her character development and watching her spread her sunshine all over the place. Alex on the other hand is a giant grump and he has no reason to hid it, when hes forced by his father to go compete on the show. During the first week I loved seeing him lighten up and crack a few smiles in Taylor's direction. I love that they got paired together on the show eeekkkkk....so cute. The dough, the kiss, the coffee and the unwavering support...shut up!
I felt like I was an anxious spectator waiting for each week and each competition, which I absolutely loved. I also love how when I am reading one of Kassies books it just feels so realistic. Like yep, that is definitely how it went. The ending was top tier and I can't wat for everyone to get a chance to read this one.
Honestly I could go on and on about the book but I'll finalize my review here. This was by far one of my top reads for the year, Kassie did a phenomenal job. I look forward to seeing all the incredible feedback to come for this one. Go preorder it now and get ready to be delighted 😀


Thank you for the ARC opportunity 🖤

[Samiksha Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review- Received Advance Reader Copy from Author.


Holy. Freaking. Cupcakes!

Can we just talk about this title for a second?
I’ll be honest: the title Bake It 'Til You Make It is the reason I applied for this ARC, and I am so glad I did! If you’re looking for a book that feels like a warm hug (and makes you crave a pastry 😋every five minutes), this is it!!

Taylor , who is literal sunshine in human form. She’s stuck in a dead-end job until she gets the chance of a lifetime: a spot on the reality show America’s Next Great Baker. Her goal? Finally opening her own bakery.

Alex. He’s the "Grumpy" to Taylor’s "Sunshine." He’s a high-end chef from a prestigious Vancouver culinary family, hiding his identity while competing to please his father. He is the perfect blend of charm, depth, and secret softness.

What I loved most was the dynamic between Taylor and Alex. Taylor’s colorful, chaotic baking style versus Alex’s polished precision created such a fun contrast. Their banter was flirty, playful, and full of chemistry, making every interaction so enjoyable to read.

The reality TV competition setting added the perfect amount of drama and tension, while also giving space for side characters to shine. And the bakery atmosphere? Absolutely delightful. Fresh bread, warm kitchens, flour-covered counters, sweet treats everywhere… it was impossible not to feel wrapped up in the coziness of it all.

If you love rom-com vibes, grumpy x sunshine energy, foodie settings, lovable characters, and stories that leave you smiling, definitely add this one to your TBR.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, I am giving this one 4.5/5 stars because I just devoured this book! It was a fun, feel-good read that hooked me in from the start! This is my first book from Kassie (even though this is her second book) and I will definitely read more from her. If you're into baking shows, you will have a great time with this one.

We have total grumpy/sunshine vibes with this one. Taylor is pure chaos, but in the best way. She is messy, lovable, and just a total ray of sunshine. Meanwhile, Alex is the definition of grumpy. He is stuck under his father's thumb, disconnected from his passion, and clearly missing that creative spark that made him love baking in the first place.

Taylor is chasing her dream by applying to America's Next Great Baker while trying to escape her dead-end job, and Alex is forced into being on the show by his father after an ultimatum, all for PR reasons. Watching their worlds collide (and slowly unravel each other) was so fun!

The writing flows so well, the baking show element is so fun (there's a little reality TV show drama in there too), and the romance build feels natural. We have just a touch of spice, nothing over the top, but enough to add some extra flavor. Watching Taylor slowly crack Alex's grumpy exterior was one of my favorite parts. I just loved the ending too! Perfect finish!

If you're looking for something cute, cozy, and full of charm, definitely recommend you check this one out. Thank you so much to Kassie for allowing me to read it early.

[Stacey | Booktok · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I want to say a massive thank you to Kassie for allowing me an ARC of this book. I feel so privileged to be one of the first people to read it.

Bake It Til You Make It is a rom-com that gives cosy, summer vibes! It was an easy read with a fab storyline. I was hooked from chapter 1!

I love how the story is loosely based on The Great British Bake Off - a firm favourite of mine! I could visualise the story of the competition with the intricate detail making this very easy to do. I cannot be the only person that hears the theme tune in their head when they read this, can I?

I love Taylor's sunny disposition but even more importantly I love the growth in her character as we move through the book. Seeing Taylor remain the sweet, kind girl that she is but growing in confidence and learning her worth.

And I could not help but fall in love with Alex, especially when in the beginning I thought I would hate him. Again the growth in his character to the warm and playful man he becomes is such a joy to read.

And the spice... Wow! I was not expecting that! Not too much, not too little... It was absolutely perfect.

I devoured this book and I highly recommend anyone to give this a read. A picnic blanket, a nice glass of chilled wine and a warm summers day will compliment this read completely.

It's a 5 star no brainer in my eyes. I can't wait to read more of Kassie's writing.

Long live Bookmark!!

[Emily Bellamy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy freaking cupcakes! 🧁

This book has the romance from a Romantasy book wrapped into a reality TV competition show that puts the Great British Bake-off to shame.

If you enjoy the reality trope, grumpy x sunshine (he’s literally her grumpy storm cloud), dueling dream jobs…as well as dual POV, you’ll adore this book. The plot is well thought out, the writing is easy to follow and the characters are incredibly lovable. (Except Lila.) We’re even possibly set up for book two? 😇

Taylor is an aspiring baker who’s making ends meet with a day job that literally made me depressed just reading about it. Alex is essentially the nepo baby of the culinary world in Canada, whose dearest daddy signs him up to compete on an American baking show to try to bring their family name into the US. Bringing the storm cloud vibe into the Bakers House (think the Bachelor house), Alex makes it clear he didn’t want to be there. Meanwhile, Taylor is dubbed sunshine, happiness and all things good even though she’s a hot mess right off the bat. We love her.

I devoured this book faster than Garrett devoured Diane’s cakes. Hopefully looking forward to more delights from Kassie!!

Fav line from the book: “He doesn’t sound like it’s all for the cameras. It sounds like he forgot the cameras were there.”

[Annelies · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

ARC review

This book follows Taylor and Alex in a baking competition. Taylor gets the opportunity of a lifetime to showcase her talents when she is selected to participate in a baking reality show. Alex is forced by his father to enter the competition in order to receive the necessary funding for his dream project. Taylor is the sunshine throughout the book, while Alex is a thundercloud who does not want to be there. Somehow they are attracted to each other from the very first moment.

Taylor and Alex are both complex characters from different backgrounds. Taylor struggles financially and can hardly keep up in the competition because of this. Alex comes from money but with strings attached. I liked that he did not swoop in with money when Taylor faces some very difficult decisions.

This was the second book I read from this author and it was even better than the first one! I started this book thinking it would be a fun read but I was obsessed from the very first page. Kassie Jones has a way of writing that puts me at the edge of my seat. I felt like I was at the competition, living through all the tension, chaos and heartbreak going along with it. Definitely worth the read!

What to expect:
💕 Romcom
🧁 Baking Show Competition
🎬 Reality TV Hijinks
🌦 Grumpy Sunshine
🧲 Opposites Attract
🌟 Flirty Banter

[Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you want to feel good? Do you want to get sucked into a fast paced story set in a reality baking completion show? Do you want to fall in love with a female main character who is real and has struggles and is brave but is also kind and funny and throws her whole heart into everything and is just like us but a much better baker? How about a male main character who is a driven perfectionist, whose family has always prioritized success over happiness but somehow still has the capacity to love deeply?
Yeah, of course you do. So read this book.
Author Kassie Jones delivers all of that with a craveable writing style and a true knack for seeing the best in almost everyone, just like her main character. The reality TV competition template keeps this story moving with a somewhat predictable (in a good way) time line, but it is what happens after the show that will stick with you. We get some tension with the competition and the relationships within the house. The stakes are kept real but the angst is never overblown. Plus she manages to convey romance and passion with just a hint of spice. I’m not sure if I wan to call this book cozy, because some people construe that as dull or cheesy and this is far from those things. I guess warm is the better word. The sort of book that you find gives you a little smile while you are reading. The sort of book you want to pass on to someone you really like as soon as you finish it.
I recommend this book wholeheartedly and am grateful to author Kassie Jones for giving me an advanced copy to read and review.

[Charlotte Mooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a woman from England I was instantly hooked from the get go. Reality baking show? Yes please!

Our FMC Taylor is so relatable, she's a fresh of breath air even when she's struggling. Kind, funny, hard working, maybe a little too hard on herself but so hopeful in ways alot of people aren't these days. She needs this competition to be able to quit her job and focus on something she actually loves.

Now Alex, our MMC is definitely not winning any nice points in those first few chapters but I understand how hard it must be coming from the type of family he does and how he's always had to be a certain type of person. So when we finally started seeing the banter and caring side of him? I was ALL in! Who doesn't love a grump who's only soft for his girl?

I loved how Kassie showed the behind the scenes of reality TV shows and how different producers can make reality shows based on some editing and help. And getting to see how all the characters interact together when filming and when they think the cameras aren't on them.

My absolute favourite part though was definitely getting to see Taylor and Alex's relationship blossom. How they both stayed loyal to themselves even when it was hard.

Kassie Jones has definitely become one of those instantly read Authors for me. Her books are well written, even paced and oh so fun to read!

[Emily Gawlak · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bake It ‘Til You Make It by Kassie Jones absolutely stole my heart from the very first page. I went in expecting something sweet and cozy… and what I got was layers upon layers of warmth, wit, chemistry, and heart that completely melted me.

This book is the perfect recipe: a dash of humor, a generous scoop of swoon, tender emotional depth, and characters that feel so real you swear you could run into them at your local bakery. The banter? Delicious. The tension? Chef’s kiss. The romance? Slow burn perfection that had me grinning like a fool and clutching the book to my chest more than once.

Kassie Jones has such a natural, comforting writing style; it wraps around you like the smell of fresh bread in the oven. And the emotional moments? They hit just right. Not overly dramatic, but honest and heartfelt in a way that lingers long after you turn the last page.

I adored the main characters individually, but together? Absolute magic. Their growth felt authentic, their struggles relatable, and their love story was the kind that makes you believe in timing, second chances, and taking risks; both in baking and in life.

This is the kind of rom-com that leaves you smiling for hours. Cozy, charming, and completely satisfying.

If you love baking show vibes, flirty tension, baking metaphors, and romance that feels both light and meaningful, this one is a must read.

Five stars, no crumbs left behind. 🍰💕

Check out @authorkassiejones today!!

[Asia Jayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an avid GBBO fan, I really enjoyed the premise of this book. The corny show openers by the judges and hosts of the show were an awesome inclusion. I enjoyed how Taylor and Alex took the time at the end to figure out their own goals and dreams before coming together, I felt that was very realistic.

I would have liked to see more development of some of the other characters. More of the relationships formed between the contestants during the show. More interactions with Taylor's mom and if she met Alex during the finale picnic and how she fell to about Taylor moving at the end. I was also confused, and maybe I just missed it, on how people received Alex's cousin Julian being at the competition. Was he just hanging around the whole time or did he play it off as though he was working with production. I also felt it was strange that there didn't end up being a scandal with the show and the way they manufactured drama and also let a Canadian get all the way to the end. The intention of Alex being there to put on a good show and build brand awareness but also hide his connection to the Harrington group, didn't quite make sense.

[Jocelyn Asher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cozy sweet with a little seasoning book. I thought this was gonna be a traditional baking competition book where two contestants are enemies then become lovers. There’s a big fall out where the MMC does something stupid, they break up, then he does this big grand gesture as a way of groveling and then they get back together. This book isn’t like that at all. If you’re wanting a baking competition book with drama, this is not it. It is super low angst and there’s not third act break up scene (which I love).

This has grumpy/ sunshine vibes and the MMC will burn down the world (or production) for her. It has a sweet and an okay happily ever after.

This is also a spicy book but like 2 spice out of 5 spice. There are like two explicit (vanilla, pun intended) scenes if I recall correctly.

I gave it 4 stars because there wasn’t really a conflict. In my opinion, a flat plot line. It was sweet and had no third act break up which always makes me happy as well as a happily ever after. I just wanted more; more conflict and more of an ending. I felt like it was a lackluster happily ever after.

[Maureen Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

Bake It Til You Make It by Kassie Jones was a really nice, easy read with a smooth, flowing writing style that made it effortless to get into the story.

I really liked the main characters, Taylor and Alex, and how naturally their relationship developed over time. They’re such a sweet contrast—Taylor is pure sunshine, the kind of person who lights up a room just by walking into it, while Alex is your classic grumpy, keep-to-himself type who doesn’t have much time for anyone… until Taylor slowly gets under his skin. Watching that shift was genuinely enjoyable.

One thing I especially appreciated was that neither of them had to sacrifice who they were or give up their dreams for the relationship. Instead, there’s a sense of mutual growth and meeting in the middle, which felt refreshing and realistic.

The side characters, Kara and Julian, also added a lot to the story and played their roles well.

At times, the book did feel a little long and dragged slightly in places, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.

Thank you for the ARC—this is my honest review.

[Verity Thornhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute Reality TV Romance

I really enjoyed Bake It 'Til You Make it 🧁It was a cute, feel good, romance with humour and swoon ❤️

When Taylor finds out she has been chosen as a contestant on the debut season for America's version of The Great British Bake Off, she knows that this is her chance to make her bakery dreams come true.

Alex's reaction to finding out about his involvement in the show couldn't be more different. Already working as a head chef he doesn't see the need to be involved with something like this - until his dad forces him to.

But even though they are coming in to this reality baking show experiences from very different places, once they are in that tent they both throw themselves in to it!

To Alex, Taylor is a bundle of creative chaos - he can't work her out, but he's drawn to her. And she can't help but want to know more about the closed off polished chef - especially when she cracks his frosty exterior and makes him smile.

If you like baking, reality TV, and a good dose of grumpy X sunshine, then you'll enjoy Kassie's book.

Looking forward to more from this author ☺️

[Skye Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a 5-star read for me! It was such a fun story that kept me hooked from beginning to end. If you enjoy cooking or baking shows, this one is an absolute must—the concept felt fresh, and I was always excited to see what they’d create next.

The FMC is incredibly lovable. She’s always running a little late, but even when life throws challenges her way, she keeps such a positive, glass-half-full outlook. Alex took me a bit to warm up to, but watching him slowly soften because of Taylor made it impossible not to root for him. Seeing her help him rediscover his passion for baking was one of my favorite parts.

While Taylor needs this win to escape her dead-end job, Alex needs it to get his controlling father off his back. Watching them fall in love gave me all the feels. I was on the edge of my seat (or couch!) during the final chapters—I won’t spoil anything, but I know you’ll feel the same way.

If you’re looking for a feel good, fun, and heartfelt read, this is definitely the one for you.

[S Kadile · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, I was hooked on Taylor and Alex’s story. Their chemistry is effortless and so fun to watch unfold. Taylor is relatable, determined, and easy to root for, while Alex brings that perfect mix of charm and depth that makes you fall for him without even realizing it.

The baking backdrop adds such a cozy, comforting vibe to the story. Every scene feels warm and inviting, like you’re right there in the kitchen with them. It’s not just about romance either. The book beautifully balances personal growth, ambition, and the courage to take risks, making the story feel meaningful without losing its lighthearted charm.

What I loved most is how natural everything felt. The dialogue flows easily, the emotions hit just right, and the pacing keeps you turning pages without effort. It’s the kind of book you pick up for a quick read and end up not wanting to put down.

If you’re looking for a feel-good romance with lovable characters, a cozy setting, and just the right amount of sweetness, Bake It ‘Til You Make It is a must-read.

[Mrs. Beady P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Kass for allowing me to be an ARC reader with your pride and joy.

I’m actually obsessed with this one.

Taylor is chasing her dream of owning a bakery, and getting onto this high-stakes baking competition is her big chance… if she can deal with Alex. He’s cocky, a little guarded, and honestly way too distracting for someone she’s supposed to be competing against. Alex, the MMC, did not plan on caring at all but Taylor’s chaotic, optimistic energy totally gets to him. What starts off as rivalry turns into this tension you can literally feel, and the slow burn is sooo worth it. Kara is Tays best friend and every girl needs a bestie like her. She keeps Taylor grounded, hypes her up, and just reminds her who she is when everything starts to feel like too much.

Kassie, you pulled me in and kept me hooked the entire time… I flew through this.

Super quick read, amazing banter, sweet with just enough spice.

Long live Bookmark. 🍰✨

[Eva Edge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bake It 'Til You Make It by Kassie Jones is a cute, sweet, and lighthearted romance that feels like a perfectly balanced cupcake recipe.
The story is engaging and fun, offering just the right amount of drama and romance to keep you entertained without feeling overwhelmed. While the passion for baking shines through, the true heart of the book is the wonderful character growth of the lead, Taylor. Seeing her maintain her signature sunny disposition while simultaneously finding her confidence and learning her true worth makes for a deeply satisfying and "feel-good" read that is incredibly easy to breeze through.
There is something so special about a light romance that manages to be "sweet" without being shallow—Taylor’s journey to finding her worth clearly gave the story the depth it needed to earn that top rating. It’s the perfect high note to end this block on! 5 sweet stars to this yummy book.

[Symone · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I felt like i was floating on a cloud of marshmallows while reading this. The vibes were the perfect mix of a Hallmark romance and something straight out of Food Network TV. The way the author describes the baking competition scenes with the judges, i could literally picture Gordon Ramsay or Joe Bastianich in those seats and see it happening on my tv screen.

The FMC, Taylor was this big burst of sunshine and such a good highlight to the story. The energy she brought, even in the midst of her situation was amazing. The humor from her chaotic nature was fun 😂 She was just so rich in personality.

Alex, on the other hand, was a total grouch on the surface, but deep down he had this soft, fluffy side. And of course, Taylor was the one to bring it out. The way he was protective of her had me kicking my feet yelling “YEAH, WHAT HE SAID!” I was fully invested 🤣

Overall, I had such a good time reading this. There is so much talent here.🙌🏾