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Beach Pointe #1
Mann Cakes
Love makes men do desperate things, if desperate things means opening a rival cupcake shop to drive your ex-girlfriend crazy.
Twin brothers and Air Force vets, Tanner and Garrett Mann, return from deployment to find their thriving business burned to the ground. Time for Plan B: Move back to their hometown of Beach Pointe to start over.
But that means running into Paige and Morgan Baxter –gorgeous, curvy, and owners of Two Sisters Cupcakes.
There’s an old diner for sale across town, Garrett’s a great cook, and Tanner has an idea. They’ll make savory cupcakes that men would like. We’re talking bacon and Cheez Whiz. Even better? They'll call it Mann Cakes. Problem is, they end up attracting an unexpected crowd.
Paige is furious. Every man in her life has left her behind, including Tanner. She’s sacrificed everything for her shop. She won’t lose it over some egotistical ex-boyfriend, even if he does have an Air Force-chiseled body. Her younger sister, Morgan, isn’t helping matters. She’s been gaga over Garrett since high school.
To hell with that. If it’s a fight Tanner wants, it’s a fight he’ll get. But how much is Paige willing to risk to win a cupcake war?
For fans of sweet, sexy romantic comedy in the same vein as Janet Evanovich, Lauren Blakely, Kylie Gilmore & Louisa Edwards. Bonus Mann Cakes recipe included! Pre-order it now for for the early bird price of $0.99!
Twin brothers and Air Force vets, Tanner and Garrett Mann, return from deployment to find their thriving business burned to the ground. Time for Plan B: Move back to their hometown of Beach Pointe to start over.
But that means running into Paige and Morgan Baxter –gorgeous, curvy, and owners of Two Sisters Cupcakes.
There’s an old diner for sale across town, Garrett’s a great cook, and Tanner has an idea. They’ll make savory cupcakes that men would like. We’re talking bacon and Cheez Whiz. Even better? They'll call it Mann Cakes. Problem is, they end up attracting an unexpected crowd.
Paige is furious. Every man in her life has left her behind, including Tanner. She’s sacrificed everything for her shop. She won’t lose it over some egotistical ex-boyfriend, even if he does have an Air Force-chiseled body. Her younger sister, Morgan, isn’t helping matters. She’s been gaga over Garrett since high school.
To hell with that. If it’s a fight Tanner wants, it’s a fight he’ll get. But how much is Paige willing to risk to win a cupcake war?
For fans of sweet, sexy romantic comedy in the same vein as Janet Evanovich, Lauren Blakely, Kylie Gilmore & Louisa Edwards. Bonus Mann Cakes recipe included! Pre-order it now for for the early bird price of $0.99!
233 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2017
1181 people are currently reading
1074 people want to read
About the author
Mysti Parker
56 books768 followersMysti Parker is an award-winning author and shameless chocoholic. She writes romance for every reader's taste from super sweet to scandalously spicy. When she's not writing the next best-story-ever or tackling the endless mountain of laundry, she works as a freelance copywriter and editor. Mysti resides in Louisville, Kentucky with her husband, three children and too many pets.
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- Free books
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For more updates and an endless array of food pics, follow her at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
October 24, 2019
This book is boring. I thought it has some rom com aspect into it. But I was wrong. The rom com is dry. None of it able to coax a smile from me. The characters are 2 couples. 2 sisters and 2 brothers. The characters are so immature and there is no proper development. The sexual attraction is also flat boring.
And the man cupcake? Come on... Listening to the choices of the man cupcakes, it makes me want to puke. Sausage on the muffin? Ugh! its just wrong. The story is also plain. I think the author trying to cramps everything into 200 something pages. I can not find anything that I like from this book. Nothing.
2 stars
And the man cupcake? Come on... Listening to the choices of the man cupcakes, it makes me want to puke. Sausage on the muffin? Ugh! its just wrong. The story is also plain. I think the author trying to cramps everything into 200 something pages. I can not find anything that I like from this book. Nothing.
2 stars
July 16, 2017
This is one of those times when I hate reviewing books. I feel badly when I have to tell everyone that a book and I didn't really get along. And this time, it's for a few reasons. One of which has nothing to do with the plot. For the most part, I liked the meat of the story and by meat, I don't mean the yummy military guys either.
The whole concept behind the book was pretty interesting: two brothers creating a savory cupcake shop that is involuntarily in competition with two sassy sisters and their cupcake shop. Interesting, right? The cupcake shop idea is not a new one in romance novels, it's been done ... it actually seems to be a theme that runs rampant in the contemporary romance genre ... sometimes it's done well and sometimes not so well but this one was just a little different. You still have the flour and powdered sugar covered heroines but this time, the author threw in some treat baking dudes to stir things up a bit with some healthy competition.
Unfortunately, I think that the plot was the best thing about the book because I didn't connect with the characters at all. And I should have. I should have connected with Paige on a level that I don't with most other people because like her, I have an autistic son. But I didn't and it was because of something that Paige's sister, Morgan, said. I think that I really resented the sisters because at one point in the story, it says something about the autistic son acting out. Dude, I reached boiling in about two milliseconds. Every time I hear or read something about an autistic kiddo "acting out", instead of just feeling sorry for the person's ignorance for saying that, I get angry at the person's ignorance. Because these are the people that think my son is acting out when he's just had a bit of sensory overload. Anyway, this was a totally personal and what some may think as completely irrational reason to not like a couple of characters in a book. And you know what, that's okay. But that was why I was just totally turned off by these sisters. After that point, I just totally shut down to them.
The brothers didn't fare much better for me either. And I don't think that their characters were tainted by what I thought of the sisters but that's only because I found the brothers completely interchangeable. Since this book was really about all four of these characters and their corresponding love stories, I was expecting to at least be able to differentiate between the brothers but they read like they were the same person, just with different names. Yes, they are twins but these were the same dude. And I got the feeling that they weren't intended to be like that since it says that they both have different strengths and all of that but it didn't come across like that with me.
Now, I'm definitely in the minority on my thoughts with this book. It has a super high rating on Goodreads and Amazon, so if you're reading this before you buy, make sure you read some other reviews as well because I'd hate for someone to miss out on a book that they would love just because I'm an angry momma bear.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
May 13, 2017
Could have been SO GOOD. But alas, FOUR povs ruined it for me. Garrett's and Morgan's povs are SO UNNECESSARY. Like I couldn't find it in me to give a shit about these two. Give them their own book! *Sigh*
Update: I skimmed through and this book is definitely not worth anyone's time. Revolting.
And this book would have been a LOT shorter too without Garrett's and Morgan's unnecessary scenes because there's NO grovelling on the Hero's part, he just wanted her to get over . Random thropes are thrown into this book like sprinkles, but they don't bring much to help this book.
Update: I skimmed through and this book is definitely not worth anyone's time. Revolting.
And this book would have been a LOT shorter too without Garrett's and Morgan's unnecessary scenes because there's NO grovelling on the Hero's part, he just wanted her to get over . Random thropes are thrown into this book like sprinkles, but they don't bring much to help this book.
November 25, 2018
This is not for me. I liked the setup, but it went wrong pretty early and never really worked for me. It's labeled as a romantic comedy, but I didn't find it funny at all - what little humor there was, was done at the expense of others in a mean way, which is most definitely not my cuppa.
It sounds fluffy enough, with twin brothers and two sisters who clearly love each other getting a second chance at love in competing bakeries, but most of the plot points are not light at all, like arson, murder, stalking, and I wondered if there's another book that should have been uploaded instead. There's a badly drawn villain who's insulted because of their weight and other serious issues like PTSD and autism that are handled very cavalierly and with little thought. Above all, I didn't really like ANY of the main characters. Add to it a bit of cheating that lead to the initial breakup for one of the couples, and I was just shaking my head most of the time, not laughing.
I just struggled with it, and while I picked it up as a freebie hoping for a light Sunday read, I was disappointed. I couldn't recommend it.
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December 6, 2018
I'm still not all too sure about this one.
I loved the concept of the cupcake wars, but after a couple of chapters that quickly disappeared into the void of nothing. There wasn't nearly enough mention of baking men for my taste, really! Guess I simply had some expectations on that part, right?
As for the characters.. I really didn't like Paige. She was so focused on what Tanner did wrong in the past, conveniently forgetting to mention how he MIGHT have a kid running around. Like. Who's in the wrong the most? The person who - technically didn't even - cheat on her at 17 or the person who kept silent about a possible kid for five years? Don't know about you but I felt iffy about that.
There are also some comments towards trans people made in the text that felt off. People were secretive regarding Paige's son and Tanner "thought" "What's with all the secrecy? Has she turned into a Peter or something?" or something similar along those lines. Completely uncalled for. I can't even imagine that being the first thing someone thinks of when people are being secretive but hey.
As for the steamy scenes.. They felt over the top, too rushed and like the author simply wanted to get to those as soon as possible. It took away from the actual romance and story.
I did like the story for the most part but.. Definitely some issues. Okay-read as far as I'm concerned. I wish those specific comments would get edited though.
2.5 / 5
I loved the concept of the cupcake wars, but after a couple of chapters that quickly disappeared into the void of nothing. There wasn't nearly enough mention of baking men for my taste, really! Guess I simply had some expectations on that part, right?
As for the characters.. I really didn't like Paige. She was so focused on what Tanner did wrong in the past, conveniently forgetting to mention how he MIGHT have a kid running around. Like. Who's in the wrong the most? The person who - technically didn't even - cheat on her at 17 or the person who kept silent about a possible kid for five years? Don't know about you but I felt iffy about that.
There are also some comments towards trans people made in the text that felt off. People were secretive regarding Paige's son and Tanner "thought" "What's with all the secrecy? Has she turned into a Peter or something?" or something similar along those lines. Completely uncalled for. I can't even imagine that being the first thing someone thinks of when people are being secretive but hey.
As for the steamy scenes.. They felt over the top, too rushed and like the author simply wanted to get to those as soon as possible. It took away from the actual romance and story.
I did like the story for the most part but.. Definitely some issues. Okay-read as far as I'm concerned. I wish those specific comments would get edited though.
2.5 / 5
November 13, 2018
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. This was honestly an amazing book. I loved the both sets of siblings. I felt bad for Paige and Tanner both because there was so much hate for each other. Morgan and Garret were like a couple of kids just meeting for the first time. It was honestly really cute. I was glad when Paige and Tanner finally got over their spat and fell in love. Truly a great story. I would recommend this to anyone who likes humour, cooking, hot guys, romance, and so much more.
October 8, 2017
Not my cup of soup. I will explain.
Twin brothers have history with sisters in a small town. One twin is an testosteroney hothead, the other is a shy wholesome computer geek. They are both 'smokin' hot.' Of the sisters, one is a overemotional hothead and the other one is a sweet wholesome artist. They are both 'smokin' hot.' The 'smokin' hot' theme is repeated often throughout the book, in various boob-tastic parlance.
The hotheads ended a high school romance on a bad note, involving (of course) a former best friend that was so horrible she 'slept with half the football team' and then took advantage of hothead hero.
The brothers leave town, start a computer shop, then join the USAF, and zoom off to be heroes in ground combat in a war zone. Then they get out of the USAF and come back to their small town.
The wholesome two were merely good friends, and now want to sensibly proceed with starting a romantic relationship.
Wholesome couple's hothead siblings start a war, involving the guys' suddenly buying a diner and remodeling it into a male-oriented savoury cupcake business. This is in direct competition of the sisters' cupcake business, which loses five clients on the very first day that the brother's mancakery is open.
Shenanigans ensue. Sounds fluffy enough, if you don't take into account the arson, murder, stalking, death threats, oh-there's-a-kid-but-who's-the-dad, almost accidental drowning, unrelated escaped felon danger, and a creepy deputy sheriff. Cause all that is going on as well.
Throw in some off-hand comments about PTSD including a flippant
‘I choose not to obsess over it. PTSD can kiss my ass."
because we all know PTSD is a choice, and top everything with
'Thank goodness they weren’t atoms - it was about to get nuclear hot in here.’
Not my cup of Soup.
Twin brothers have history with sisters in a small town. One twin is an testosteroney hothead, the other is a shy wholesome computer geek. They are both 'smokin' hot.' Of the sisters, one is a overemotional hothead and the other one is a sweet wholesome artist. They are both 'smokin' hot.' The 'smokin' hot' theme is repeated often throughout the book, in various boob-tastic parlance.
The hotheads ended a high school romance on a bad note, involving (of course) a former best friend that was so horrible she 'slept with half the football team' and then took advantage of hothead hero.
The brothers leave town, start a computer shop, then join the USAF, and zoom off to be heroes in ground combat in a war zone. Then they get out of the USAF and come back to their small town.
The wholesome two were merely good friends, and now want to sensibly proceed with starting a romantic relationship.
Wholesome couple's hothead siblings start a war, involving the guys' suddenly buying a diner and remodeling it into a male-oriented savoury cupcake business. This is in direct competition of the sisters' cupcake business, which loses five clients on the very first day that the brother's mancakery is open.
Shenanigans ensue. Sounds fluffy enough, if you don't take into account the arson, murder, stalking, death threats, oh-there's-a-kid-but-who's-the-dad, almost accidental drowning, unrelated escaped felon danger, and a creepy deputy sheriff. Cause all that is going on as well.
Throw in some off-hand comments about PTSD including a flippant
‘I choose not to obsess over it. PTSD can kiss my ass."
because we all know PTSD is a choice, and top everything with
'Thank goodness they weren’t atoms - it was about to get nuclear hot in here.’
Not my cup of Soup.
January 31, 2019
Too many characters got introduced too quickly for me to keep up. By the time I managed to get the tiniest handle on the main characters (hard to do when you're combining two romance couples into one book) I didn't particularly like them. Garrett probably could've shaped up but I thought it...odd that he made such a point about it being time to get a mortgage and have kids. He's 24, not exactly knocking on deaths door. Tanner on the other hand was kind of a childish jerk. He seemed very immature. Paige seemed to be stuck in the past...high school to be exact, to the point of bitchiness. There was too much going on and not enough enjoyable characters to make this work past five chapters.
Dnf
Dnf
Want to read
March 3, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/3/2018)!💝
June 12, 2017
I thought the story with having twins being involved with sisters and a second chance/hot fling was a crazy good idea. I enjoyed the romance and the heat level. I thought the characters were fun and the POV for each one helped give some depth into the characters I don't think we would have gotten to that extent otherwise. Definitely a great read!
April 15, 2017
Mysti Parker's romances run the gamut on the hotness scale, from sweet historical to super-hot. Mann Cakes leans toward the hot end of the spectrum, but there's an intriguing suspense as well as romantic conflict. Two sisters have a history with a set of twin brothers, and when they meet again after years apart, sparks fly. The story, along with the intriguing characters, kept me reading - even when I had a long list of things I should have been doing instead!
April 13, 2017
Mann Cakes is a cute romantic comedy with a bit of mystery written by author Mysti Parker. This story has twins, sisters and a cupcake war. Very entertaining. Thanks to the author for the advance copy.
March 29, 2017
I knew when I read the blurb for Mann Cakes by Mysti Parker it was going to be a good book. It contained all my favorite novel parts: Romance, humor, a bit of drama, and even the yummy cupcakes that sparked a rivalry.
Twin brothers, Tanner and Garrett Mann, forced to move back to their hometown after their Computer business burned down in a suspicious manner. Looking to find a way to support themselves, they decided to open a bakery and call it Mann Cakes. They wanted to bake cupcakes created especially for men who enjoyed bacon, sausage, ham and other goodies instead of the fluffy, sweet frosted type.
Paige and Morgan Baxter had a bakery that made those sweet fluffy concoctions and saw Mann Cakes as a rival to their successful business. Never mind that they were gorgeous, sexy hunks to boot. Add that to the history from their younger years.
Women flocked to the new bakery to take selfies with the handsome brothers, and of course, it wasn’t Tanner and Garret’s intent to draw the women in for that purpose. (Or was it?)
Once Tanner and Paige declared war, the humor became laugh-out-loud funny in places. The sexual attraction was strong between each couple too, whether they admitted it or not.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to those who enjoy a good sexy, romantic comedy.
Well done, Mysti!
July 9, 2017
I received a copy of this book direction from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I almost gave this book 3 stars. Almost. I just couldn’t do it. I was bored. After the first few pages, I was ready to put the book down. I hung on, and I did finish the book, but I didn’t really enjoy it.
Very little time was spent on the suspense portion of this book. The murdered friend was mentioned less than a handful of times, and other than one or two incidents in the entire book, there really was no active danger or suspense built up for the characters and reader.
There was also very little of the supposed “cupcake war” this book was about. There was maybe an hour in-book time dedicated to the war between the brothers and sisters, and it was entirely one sided and basically, only one character was even involved. Everyone else was just fine. There was no animosity between them.
The romances themselves were paced pretty identically between the two couples—so it felt like we were just seeing the same romance in an echo. The romance moved along so quickly that I didn’t feel anything for the characters. It didn’t feel realistic. The entirety of the book felt like it passed in a handful of days, and before you knew it they were at their HEA’s.
Overall, it felt like the book lacked any tension or conflict. Everything was a little too easy for the characters, and nothing really happened to move the plot or relationships forward. In the end, the book just wasn’t for me.
I almost gave this book 3 stars. Almost. I just couldn’t do it. I was bored. After the first few pages, I was ready to put the book down. I hung on, and I did finish the book, but I didn’t really enjoy it.
Very little time was spent on the suspense portion of this book. The murdered friend was mentioned less than a handful of times, and other than one or two incidents in the entire book, there really was no active danger or suspense built up for the characters and reader.
There was also very little of the supposed “cupcake war” this book was about. There was maybe an hour in-book time dedicated to the war between the brothers and sisters, and it was entirely one sided and basically, only one character was even involved. Everyone else was just fine. There was no animosity between them.
The romances themselves were paced pretty identically between the two couples—so it felt like we were just seeing the same romance in an echo. The romance moved along so quickly that I didn’t feel anything for the characters. It didn’t feel realistic. The entirety of the book felt like it passed in a handful of days, and before you knew it they were at their HEA’s.
Overall, it felt like the book lacked any tension or conflict. Everything was a little too easy for the characters, and nothing really happened to move the plot or relationships forward. In the end, the book just wasn’t for me.
August 2, 2017
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog https://jessjesinghaus.wordpress.com
Talk about delicious! Mann Cakes (cheeky!) introduces us to the hunka-hotness twin brothers Tanner and Garrett Mann. Just returned from deployment in Afghanistan, they find their computer business burned to the ground and their friend Will killed in the blaze. With the prospect of starting from scratch, the brothers decide to move back home to the small town of Beach Pointe to regroup. But things aren't going to be easy, especially when Tanner's old flame Paige and her feisty younger sister Morgan enter the picture. It gets a little too hot in the kitchen!
There was so much to love about this little morsel: Tanner and Paige, with a rocky past and feelings that are clearly unresolved... Garrett and Morgan who are just made for each other, but neither could ever work up the courage to do anything about it... The mystery of who has it in for the brothers and what lengths they'll go to for their revenge... The struggles of Paige as a single mother with a special needs child... Not to mention the sexiest food fight ever!! It was the perfect recipe!
Talk about delicious! Mann Cakes (cheeky!) introduces us to the hunka-hotness twin brothers Tanner and Garrett Mann. Just returned from deployment in Afghanistan, they find their computer business burned to the ground and their friend Will killed in the blaze. With the prospect of starting from scratch, the brothers decide to move back home to the small town of Beach Pointe to regroup. But things aren't going to be easy, especially when Tanner's old flame Paige and her feisty younger sister Morgan enter the picture. It gets a little too hot in the kitchen!
There was so much to love about this little morsel: Tanner and Paige, with a rocky past and feelings that are clearly unresolved... Garrett and Morgan who are just made for each other, but neither could ever work up the courage to do anything about it... The mystery of who has it in for the brothers and what lengths they'll go to for their revenge... The struggles of Paige as a single mother with a special needs child... Not to mention the sexiest food fight ever!! It was the perfect recipe!
May 15, 2017
I was a beta reader for this book -- and for numerous of Mysti's other projects, including The Roche Hotel series -- and I am an active fan of this author with an established tendency to read her books and rate them highly.
I think this is my favorite of the romances I've read by Mysti. I love Roche Hotel, but this book is very complex and well-paced, with well-drawn characters including one I particularly like (the artsy Morgan), and has some really fine writing. I particularly appreciate the fact that the steamy scenes are all very different from one another in their settings and contexts. In this novel, the prose is particularly polished, the plotting is tight, and there is never a slow or dull moment. This is the first of the Beach Pointe series, and I plan to read them all. Since I don't read a lot of romance -- I read Mysti's books more as a fan of her authorship than of the genre -- it means a lot for me to be looking forward to a book that hasn't been written yet.
So, five stars, and on to the next one! I need to read A Time for Everything. I missed that one somehow...
I think this is my favorite of the romances I've read by Mysti. I love Roche Hotel, but this book is very complex and well-paced, with well-drawn characters including one I particularly like (the artsy Morgan), and has some really fine writing. I particularly appreciate the fact that the steamy scenes are all very different from one another in their settings and contexts. In this novel, the prose is particularly polished, the plotting is tight, and there is never a slow or dull moment. This is the first of the Beach Pointe series, and I plan to read them all. Since I don't read a lot of romance -- I read Mysti's books more as a fan of her authorship than of the genre -- it means a lot for me to be looking forward to a book that hasn't been written yet.
So, five stars, and on to the next one! I need to read A Time for Everything. I missed that one somehow...
June 12, 2017
Such a fun read and what woman doesn’t like or love a man who can cook. We have twin brothers who love their high school sweethearts throw in some southern charm with a mix of military and you get some great characters. There are a few things going on in this book from lost dreams, running a business, single mom, autism, and real life happenings. It really brings the book to life and what parenting and love is really like.
A fun read that anyone would like. Writing is great, setting is wonderful and the POVs can get a bit in the way but overall a great read with some great recipes.
I received an ARC and I voluntarly reviewed.
March 14, 2018
Light, sweet cupcake fiction
The time isn't always right for a full meat and potatoes meal, with all the formality and finesse it requires. Sometimes you just want to grab a fluffy, icing laden cupcake (or two, or more) and binge with no regrets.
This, in every good way, is a cupcake book. It's a light read with romance, mystery, and two pairs of (equally hot) siblings involved in a cupcake vs. muffin war. It contains back stories, intrigue, and muscles for days since the guys are former military. Are there oddities that don't necessarily match? Yeah, but it's a cupcake, don't expect literary perfection, just enjoy the sugar rush - er, escapist ride.
A fun, light read, I would look for more from this author.
The time isn't always right for a full meat and potatoes meal, with all the formality and finesse it requires. Sometimes you just want to grab a fluffy, icing laden cupcake (or two, or more) and binge with no regrets.
This, in every good way, is a cupcake book. It's a light read with romance, mystery, and two pairs of (equally hot) siblings involved in a cupcake vs. muffin war. It contains back stories, intrigue, and muscles for days since the guys are former military. Are there oddities that don't necessarily match? Yeah, but it's a cupcake, don't expect literary perfection, just enjoy the sugar rush - er, escapist ride.
A fun, light read, I would look for more from this author.
June 7, 2017
My Musings
This is a laugh out loud romantic comedy. The characters are awesome and it has a cute story line and even a villain. If you're looking for a uplifting story with a fulfilling HEA, then this is the one. ☺reading 📚!
This is a laugh out loud romantic comedy. The characters are awesome and it has a cute story line and even a villain. If you're looking for a uplifting story with a fulfilling HEA, then this is the one. ☺reading 📚!
April 24, 2017
I was provided an Advance Copy of this book to provide an honest review. Well, You don't need to give me one of those to get honesty from me. Hell, I'll buy the digital copy (done), and order a Hard Copy later of this book.
Let's start with plot and then offer insights. Plot: Two brothers come home from the military to their business being burnt to the ground. They travel back to their hometown and meet up with a pair of sisters, one of which had dated a brother in High School. Over the next few months.... Oh hell, You know all this if you read the back cover blurb. What you won't get is that this story covers some interesting dynamics of the characters. After a 6 year or so break the brothers meet up with their respective sisters and sparks fly as romances are rekindled and there's a bit of life experience learned during that time. Now that each of our characters has started down their own path of life it all dovetails into a mashup of couples and cooperation.
There is a taste of spicy naked bits in this book but it doesn't detract nor feel ..erm.. forced. There's even some real muffin/cupcake cooking going on. Sit back with this book and enjoy a bit of beefcake with your Mann Cakes.
Let's start with plot and then offer insights. Plot: Two brothers come home from the military to their business being burnt to the ground. They travel back to their hometown and meet up with a pair of sisters, one of which had dated a brother in High School. Over the next few months.... Oh hell, You know all this if you read the back cover blurb. What you won't get is that this story covers some interesting dynamics of the characters. After a 6 year or so break the brothers meet up with their respective sisters and sparks fly as romances are rekindled and there's a bit of life experience learned during that time. Now that each of our characters has started down their own path of life it all dovetails into a mashup of couples and cooperation.
There is a taste of spicy naked bits in this book but it doesn't detract nor feel ..erm.. forced. There's even some real muffin/cupcake cooking going on. Sit back with this book and enjoy a bit of beefcake with your Mann Cakes.
June 12, 2017
I wish that this book would have been broken down into two separate books for each couple. I think I would have enjoyed it more if there would've been focus on them individually. Too much time was spent on Morgan and Garret's story and it took away from Tanner and Paige and/or vice versa.
Honestly I could've fallen in love with Tanner except for the fact that he never really apologized or talked about how badly he messed up when they were younger. It was sort of just glossed over and then they moved on. I NEED closure on that type of thing!!! Also, let's be honest, he wasn't very nice to Paige for a majority of the book. I understand that the way he was acting was out of some sort of need to get any kind of attention or reaction from her, but it never came across that way. Instead he just seemed like a bit of jerk.
I thought that Morgan and Garret's story was sweet and I would've liked to see more of them. Like I said, I think if there was just glimpses into their budding relationship scattered throughout this book to introduce us to their characters in preparation for the next book, then there could've been more time spent delving into Paige and Tanner's relationship and would have made me feel more forgiving.
Honestly I could've fallen in love with Tanner except for the fact that he never really apologized or talked about how badly he messed up when they were younger. It was sort of just glossed over and then they moved on. I NEED closure on that type of thing!!! Also, let's be honest, he wasn't very nice to Paige for a majority of the book. I understand that the way he was acting was out of some sort of need to get any kind of attention or reaction from her, but it never came across that way. Instead he just seemed like a bit of jerk.
I thought that Morgan and Garret's story was sweet and I would've liked to see more of them. Like I said, I think if there was just glimpses into their budding relationship scattered throughout this book to introduce us to their characters in preparation for the next book, then there could've been more time spent delving into Paige and Tanner's relationship and would have made me feel more forgiving.
November 25, 2018
This was a cute read, however I would have enjoyed it more as two separate stories. Tanner and Paige’s relationship felt like a blip on the radar because Paige’s resentment over Tanner cheating on her (way back in high school no less) and her disgruntlement/perceived threat from Tanner and Garrett’s new bakery to her own overshadowed the minimal relationship development they had. Tanner’s twin brother and Paige’s sister-Garrett and Morgan-did fare better with their own relationship, but again, I would have liked to have seen more development from each couple.
Overall, Mann Cakes was cute and funny, but personally, it wasn’t the most memorable book I’ve read. There were lots of things happening-sibling relationships, personal relationships, parenthood, a loose business rivalry (only from Paige’s perspective), and a stalker-that I would normally enjoy, but this time the elements overshadowed the romantic relationships leaving an unfinished feel to the story. This is a case of my personal tastes, however, I did like the author’s voice enough to try another book, perhaps from a different series.
Overall, Mann Cakes was cute and funny, but personally, it wasn’t the most memorable book I’ve read. There were lots of things happening-sibling relationships, personal relationships, parenthood, a loose business rivalry (only from Paige’s perspective), and a stalker-that I would normally enjoy, but this time the elements overshadowed the romantic relationships leaving an unfinished feel to the story. This is a case of my personal tastes, however, I did like the author’s voice enough to try another book, perhaps from a different series.
December 25, 2019
I liked this story. Mysti Parker has a nice way with words. Mann Cakes has a cute plot, likable characters, fun, chemistry, intrigue, drama, family and community, good descriptions, even patriotism! AND a couple of free recipes at the back! It was pretty well edited and I read it in a day, so it kept my attention but also wasn't very long. The ending came along perhaps a bit abruptly, but this is mainly because, I think, so much drama happened before the book begins; the teenage relationships, the bad relationships in the meantime, the arson, etc. So it wraps up rather quickly since those events can be summed up rather than shown to us in detail. There are some wonderful illustrations of what being a parent means (and what that relationship needs and what it doesn't need to entail), of supporting your sibling, of forgiveness and overcoming hardship, of learning from past mistakes, making peace with ex-spouses and taking a second chance on love. This story made me feel good. I read an ARC, offer this review freely and I would recommend this book.
April 23, 2017
Imagine a cupcake war between two Air Force twin brothers and two gorgeous girls, one of whom just happens to be an ex girl friend of one. No shortage of humor, suspense, drama and some steamy chemistry between the four. Competition and rivalry at its best. This is a well written fun read that you will enjoy.
When twin brothers move back to their home town after their computer business is destroyed in a suspicious fire. they decide to open a bakery called Mann Cakes with flavors like bacon that will appeal to men. They find themselves in direct competition with two girls from their past. Fireworks and drama galore that will have you in stitches. you will enjoy this book. I received a free copy in a promotion and voluntarily chose to review it.
When twin brothers move back to their home town after their computer business is destroyed in a suspicious fire. they decide to open a bakery called Mann Cakes with flavors like bacon that will appeal to men. They find themselves in direct competition with two girls from their past. Fireworks and drama galore that will have you in stitches. you will enjoy this book. I received a free copy in a promotion and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 24, 2017
Twins Mann brothers came back from a Afghanistan tour in Air Force and found their PC business burned down to the ground with their best friend. Reluctantly they went back to their small home town and tried to find some way to make a living. They ended up going into bakery, competing with the existing cupcake shop, run by their high school flames. Eventually love won out.
I thought I’d be reading a comedy with two sisters pitching against two brothers. It turned out to be more serious. There are quite a few twists and turns. Home-made bombs, stalker, autistic child with unknown parentage, fighting, and lots of actions and investigation. It is a very entertaining book to read.
I read this book as an ARC reader and volunteer to write an honest review.
I thought I’d be reading a comedy with two sisters pitching against two brothers. It turned out to be more serious. There are quite a few twists and turns. Home-made bombs, stalker, autistic child with unknown parentage, fighting, and lots of actions and investigation. It is a very entertaining book to read.
I read this book as an ARC reader and volunteer to write an honest review.
May 24, 2017
What a fun read! I had not read anything by this author before, but definitely will put her on my “must buy on release day” list!
Twins Tanner and Garrett Mann return to their home town after a suspicious fire took out their business, and killed their best friend. Now they have to pull their lives together after their time in the Air Force is over, and decide what to do next. Beach Pointe isn’t a hotbed for IT needs, so rebuilding their computer business there isn’t feasible. A chance meeting at their niece’s birthday party sparks the idea of pastries that aren’t covered with pink glitter and loaded with sugar. With the idea out there, and a diner up for sale, the plan is put into action.
Unfortunately, their former flames own Two Sisters Cupcakes in the same town. Morgan has loved Garrett since high school, but never acted on it. Paige and Tanner used to be together, but a huge fight destroyed their relationship. Now five years later, it’s time for secrets to be revealed, and fences to be mended.
A tale of love lost and found, but will a threat from the past destroy everything? Will the Baxter girls and the Mann boys be able to put the past behind them, or will the competition bring out the worst in them?
I could not put this book down until finished. I really enjoyed Ms. Parker’s writing style, and the volleying back and forth between the brothers and sisters. Plus, who doesn’t like bacon?!
Twins Tanner and Garrett Mann return to their home town after a suspicious fire took out their business, and killed their best friend. Now they have to pull their lives together after their time in the Air Force is over, and decide what to do next. Beach Pointe isn’t a hotbed for IT needs, so rebuilding their computer business there isn’t feasible. A chance meeting at their niece’s birthday party sparks the idea of pastries that aren’t covered with pink glitter and loaded with sugar. With the idea out there, and a diner up for sale, the plan is put into action.
Unfortunately, their former flames own Two Sisters Cupcakes in the same town. Morgan has loved Garrett since high school, but never acted on it. Paige and Tanner used to be together, but a huge fight destroyed their relationship. Now five years later, it’s time for secrets to be revealed, and fences to be mended.
A tale of love lost and found, but will a threat from the past destroy everything? Will the Baxter girls and the Mann boys be able to put the past behind them, or will the competition bring out the worst in them?
I could not put this book down until finished. I really enjoyed Ms. Parker’s writing style, and the volleying back and forth between the brothers and sisters. Plus, who doesn’t like bacon?!
July 3, 2017
Cute, sexy, humorous with a sprinkle of mystery make a great read! Twin brothers, Tanner and Garrett, are military veterans who also started a PC business. They had a plan to retire early and enjoy the rest of their lives. However, that dream is obliterated when their business is burned to the ground. What makes it harder is losing their friend in the fire. When they return to their hometown of Beach Pointe, they find out that a building is vacant. When Tanner overhears some men talking at his niece’s birthday, he has his next fantastic business idea, a bakery that caters to men. Only problem is that it puts them in competition with Paige and Morgan, who run a cupcake shop in town. Plus, Paige is the woman Tanner could never forget! Yeah, things in Beach Pointe are about to get really interesting!
I loved the story and the characters. There is the unfinished romance between Paige and Tanner complete with a secret she has been keeping from him. There is also a romance brewing between Garret and Morgan. The story has spice and sweetness. I loved the secondary characters, and their families added many laughable moments. The icing on the cake was the mystery of the fire at the beginning of the book. Parker did a great job of tying that into the story. This was a well-written story with great characters, and I cannot wait to return to Beach Pointe.
***Read and Reviewed for Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased review***
I loved the story and the characters. There is the unfinished romance between Paige and Tanner complete with a secret she has been keeping from him. There is also a romance brewing between Garret and Morgan. The story has spice and sweetness. I loved the secondary characters, and their families added many laughable moments. The icing on the cake was the mystery of the fire at the beginning of the book. Parker did a great job of tying that into the story. This was a well-written story with great characters, and I cannot wait to return to Beach Pointe.
***Read and Reviewed for Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased review***
June 28, 2017
"A Sweet, Exciting, and Charming Romance"
The storyline is funny,exciting, and sweet.!
Once you start this book you will not be able to put it down.
Tanner and Garrett are two sexy twins. Before they joined the military together they had started a PC company together. Only something tragic happened and when they got back their company and their friend was gone. The guys are lost for what to do. Then Tanner comes up with an idea to start pastry business catering to men called Mann Cakes. Only with two sexy men running it men are not who they catch the attention of!
Paige and Morgan run the Two Sisters cupcake shop. Paige has a history with Tanner and a secret she tries to keep hidden. She accuses Tanner of trying to run her and her sister out of business. This starts a friendly war between the two groups.
You will so love this exciting, funny,sweet, Charming, and steamy hot Romance! It is a five star plus book!
The storyline is funny,exciting, and sweet.!
Once you start this book you will not be able to put it down.
Tanner and Garrett are two sexy twins. Before they joined the military together they had started a PC company together. Only something tragic happened and when they got back their company and their friend was gone. The guys are lost for what to do. Then Tanner comes up with an idea to start pastry business catering to men called Mann Cakes. Only with two sexy men running it men are not who they catch the attention of!
Paige and Morgan run the Two Sisters cupcake shop. Paige has a history with Tanner and a secret she tries to keep hidden. She accuses Tanner of trying to run her and her sister out of business. This starts a friendly war between the two groups.
You will so love this exciting, funny,sweet, Charming, and steamy hot Romance! It is a five star plus book!
April 26, 2017
This is a new author for me, but she's clearly on top of the game! Sweet, romantic story with a dash of mystery, suspense, second-chance love, and sizzling action on the side. Love the sexy, ex-military brothers finding -and keeping - love with their high school sweethearts. There is a lot in this book - lost dreams, found dreams, small town, single mother, autism, developing and running a business, and family relationships, but it all worked together - kinda how real life works for most of us. My only complaint is the cupcakes sounded so yummy (ok, Tanner and Garret were too), I was hungry through most of the book! I did receive an ARC for my honest review, but I am going to take advantage of the pre-order sale and check out her other books. Overall, a very satisfying read.
June 26, 2017
Mann Cakes is a hilarious, fun story that will pull you in and have you cheering for love and happily ever after. Tanner and Garrett are the ultimate twin duo, I loved their shop Mann Cakes and how each twin was a leading character. What goes great with strong alpha twins? Sisters! Paige and Morgan own Two Sisters Cupcakes and are not pleased with their new competition. Even more upsetting for Paige is that competition is Tanner, the boy that broke her young heart. A Mann she never wanted to see again. As their lives and shops collide, truths will come out, hearts will break, and mysteries will be solved. I loved the way the stories of each character flowed and how they intertwined with each other. This book had me laughing out loud, nervously wondering "if it could be", questioning who done it, and praying for a hea! This is a unique read that you don't want to miss!
*Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
*Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
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