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Maple Lane #2
Bagels and Blackmail
Big Red is missing! Madeline Flynn's Maine Coon cat is more than a pet... much more, and now, just when her bakery is taking off, and life in the small town of Maple Falls is settling down, someone's stolen him, along with several other pets.To everyone's shock, ransom letters start appearing all over town, and then a case of blackmail. While Sheriff Ethan Tanner is doing what he can to solve the crimes, Maddie can't sit by and watch. Going against Ethan's, and her darling Gran's wishes, she once again decides to do her own sleuthing, with a little help from her friends. The Maple Lane Mysteries are light cozy mysteries featuring a quirky cat-loving bakery owner who discovers she's a talented amateur sleuth. Book 1 in the Maple Lane Mysteries is out now, with book two available for pre-order now. No cliffhangers, swearing, gore or graphic scenes.
266 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2018
408 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Phipps
50 books892 followersC. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. Cheryl lives in a quiet suburb with her wonderful husband of more than four decades.
With a large family to keep her busy when she's not writing, there is just enough space for a crazy mixed breed dog who stole her heart!
She enjoys family times, baking, rambling walks, and her quest for the perfect latte.
You can find her at www.caphipps.com
C. A. Phipps also writes romance as Cheryl Phipps at www.cherylphipps.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
January 12, 2022
This book had a lot of potential. The blurb was intriguing and I liked the premise behind the mystery. But, I personally didn't think it was a very compelling read.
I'm always looking for cozies that bring something new to the genre. So, I liked how the book at least started off with a no-murder mystery - the disappearance of many pets, including Maddie's.
However, the book drags at many points. At times, I found myself asking when the book would end or when the next big clue would be found. I think the book would have been more compelling if certain parts were cut. Maybe a writing style where Phipps shows instead of telling the reader the story could have also tightened up the book.
I found Maddie to be unrealistically naïve at many points, especially since she's supposed to have worked at a bakery in New York City. For example, she doesn't vet the intern she's hiring. She believes that the police department should increase their resources on the missing pet case in spite of the department lacking physical evidence of the blackmailing and in spite of the other more pressing and violent cases the police has to deal with.
Characters don't have to be perfect and it's ok that they have flaws in spite of (or perhaps because of) their life experiences. However, in cozy mysteries I think these flaws should not be magnified to the point where the reader is frequently exasperated or annoyed with a character, especially if it's the protagonist.
Readers who like trying to solve the mystery of a book should be aware that it's not really possible to do so with this one as there aren't that many clues that readers can use. Readers should also be aware that there are several typos in the book. However, the typos aren't too distracting.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
I'm always looking for cozies that bring something new to the genre. So, I liked how the book at least started off with a no-murder mystery - the disappearance of many pets, including Maddie's.
However, the book drags at many points. At times, I found myself asking when the book would end or when the next big clue would be found. I think the book would have been more compelling if certain parts were cut. Maybe a writing style where Phipps shows instead of telling the reader the story could have also tightened up the book.
I found Maddie to be unrealistically naïve at many points, especially since she's supposed to have worked at a bakery in New York City. For example, she doesn't vet the intern she's hiring. She believes that the police department should increase their resources on the missing pet case in spite of the department lacking physical evidence of the blackmailing and in spite of the other more pressing and violent cases the police has to deal with.
Characters don't have to be perfect and it's ok that they have flaws in spite of (or perhaps because of) their life experiences. However, in cozy mysteries I think these flaws should not be magnified to the point where the reader is frequently exasperated or annoyed with a character, especially if it's the protagonist.
Readers who like trying to solve the mystery of a book should be aware that it's not really possible to do so with this one as there aren't that many clues that readers can use. Readers should also be aware that there are several typos in the book. However, the typos aren't too distracting.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
May 30, 2022
Things are going great for Maddie. Her bakery is flourishing, she’s made some new friends, and has a great group of old friends. However she can’t enjoy any of this once her best friend and furry companion is cat napped. Maddie starts looking for Big Red and she soon realizes that her cat is not the only pet that has gone missing. When she starts to investigate she finds there is definitely more to this than a few animals getting lost or running away.
This was a a great story. As an animal lover myself I felt of Maddie and the other pet owners when their beloved babies were missing. I had an older dog get lost once and I was a mess until I found him safe and sound. So I could completely relate how Maddie felt. The mystery was well plotted; I thought I knew who was behind the pet thefts but not necessarily the murder. I didn’t see the person that was ultimately behind it all as the threat. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
This was a a great story. As an animal lover myself I felt of Maddie and the other pet owners when their beloved babies were missing. I had an older dog get lost once and I was a mess until I found him safe and sound. So I could completely relate how Maddie felt. The mystery was well plotted; I thought I knew who was behind the pet thefts but not necessarily the murder. I didn’t see the person that was ultimately behind it all as the threat. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
March 7, 2020
I can't say I totally enjoyed this one, I found it difficult to want to keep going as so much is kind of happening. We bounce around from a murder, missing pets, new staff, thoughtful characters, a hijacked car. At one point I had even forgotten what happened or who died. I also really wanted to know more about Grann, and had hoped she'd have a bigger role. I read a lot of Cozy's and some just click well and others miss the mark for me. I rated it 3 stars because I'm hopeful another in this series will grab me :)
October 4, 2021
After a rocky start involving murder, Maddie Flynn's Maple Lane Bakery is a roaring success. She's so successful that more interns are necessary and she's even thinking about introducing bagels to the menu. Gran's friend Jed is worried about the disappearance of his beloved Labradoodle, Sissy, and Maddie wants to help but she's so busy. Then, when Big Red, Maddie's Maine Coon cat doesn't come in for dinner, she's very concerned. Everyone tells her not to panic but after a whole day without Big Red, Maddie is about to lose her cool, especially since the police don't make missing pets a priority. Maddie discovers there's been a large number of pets gone missing in the area and is certain there's a connection but the police deputy and even Ethan dismiss her claims. Ethan is determined to keep Maddie out of trouble even though he misses Big Red too. There's nothing else to do but gather the Girlz and Gran and set out to find out what happened to the missing pets.
This story didn't interest me as much as the first. That surprised me because I LOVE animals and would go BONKERS if my beloved furchild was missing, presumed stolen. The plot was pretty slow and meandering. There was too much about the bakery and baking. Why does Maddie need bagels? I've never heard of a pastry shop/tea room with bagels. Make up your mind and stick to a certain product no matter what the customers ask. Are you a pastry shop/tea room or a coffee shop/bakery? The coffee shops around here get their bagels from an artisan bagel maker rather than make them in house. They're really NOT that easy or quick to make. The massive number of typos and grammatical errors took away from my enjoyment of the story. On the plus side, the romance is developing nicely. I like a good slow burn and am happy with the way things are going. There is a slight spoiler for the first book so read at your own risk.
Maddie is so very determined. I would do exactly the same thing if my beloved furchild was missing but sometimes her anger is unjustified and extreme. However, I know I would behave the same way. Otherwise, Maddie is a good and loyal friend and a kind employer. She's rather naïve and doesn't think to check references. She trusts people based on gut feeling. That's all very well but when she's hiring underage interns, she also needs to check with their parents and teachers to make sure it's Ok with them. She should know the way the world works based on her experience in New York. I don't understand how Angel can be so sunny given her background. She's even more naïve than Maddie. Like Maddie, she's quick to judge people for the better and give someone a chance if she thinks they need it. Angel is a fun friend but sometimes she's wearying. She's too happy and optimistic.
I like Laura much better now I understand her issues. She isn't merely shy, she certainly has a non-verbal learning disorder. She has trouble reading non-verbal cues and has difficulty speaking up and saying what's on her mind, she's introverted and private which has nothing to do with her family background. After meeting her parents I feel very sorry for her. Gran is very sweet with Laura and for an old lady of 70 (LOL OLD at 70) she's very spry and able to keep up with the Girlz.
OMG ETHAN! SWOON! Maddie is still fighting her feelings for him and he's trying hard to give her the space she needs. He also wants her to stay out of police business so she doesn't get hurt. It nearly killed him to have her nearly get killed. I think he's fighting a losing battle and she behaves immaturely around him. Some day he's going to move on and she'll be jealous and regret being so awful to him.
Jed Clayton seems to be something of a town crank but he's Gran's friend (boyfriend?) and is seriously worried about his beloved furchild. That would make anyone cranky. He's a lonely old man who relies on his dog for companionship and feels lost without her. How heartbreaking! I don't believe Sissy ran off on her own because Labradoodles were bred to be service dogs. They're super smart and she wouldn't leave her human like that. I'm certain Maddie is right and someone is stealing pets. However, what would they want with Big Red? He's a street cat not a pedigree. That sounds like someone is deliberating targeting Maddie. Perhaps Jed did something to anger someone as well? What's up with Maude Oliver who is more than a crank? She's rude but that's nothing new. This time it seems like she's nervous and wants to confide in Maddie but can't make herself do it. What does she knows and
Maddie has two applicants for her new intern position that she thinks deserve a chance. Beth, a teenager without a resume, whose only experience is in retail, could be the right person if she's willing to learn. Meh. I don't get that Beth really wants to work in a bakery. She just wants a job or needs a job. Luke is the opposite. He's too needy and gung-ho. I don't trust him at all from the beginning. Is he lying? Apparently Maddie thinks he's good enough to be true and deserves a chance. Once we get to know him and meet his family, we can see that like Laura, he's a good kid who comes from a toxic family. His father is absolutely horrid and doesn't want what's best for his kid or what will make his son HAPPY. Not many parents do these days but Luke's father goes above and beyond. His brother is silent but sneering and probably the golden child who can do no wrong. Ethan seems way more mature than 18. He has the ability to reason with his parents and to compromise. That's unrealistic for a teenager.
Mickey Findlay is still at large and running for mayor. Everyone knows he's corrupt and if he wins (when) it will be just a front for him to do whatever scams he wants and to regain his family's land to develop it. The police need hardcore evidence and apparently he's very good at covering his tracks. Maddie is crazy in the way she tries to get that evidence. Irene Fitzgibbons is running for mayor against Mickey Findlay. She may be a snippy old lady and a big wig in the country club but something tells me this election is rigged. Is she working WITH Mickey or has she been coerced?
If anyone can catch Mickey Findlay, it's Detective Jones. He's new in town and seems to think Maddie was responsible for the death of a certain person. She reacts badly but he remains calm and looks solely at the facts. He's a real detective- detached and logical. It DOES seem like Maggie might be guilty and her alibis are all close friends and Gran. That doesn't help much. Deputy Funnel, a woman, is awful. She's lazy and rude. She needs lessons in customer service and listening to townspeople when they have a concern. She gives the police a bad name. On the other hand, Deputy Jacobs is emerging as a great guy with a warm heart, ready to lend a hand.
I'm eager to see where the love story is headed but the writing style is too stilted and amateurish for me. I'll probably check out the next though anyway. The recipes sound really good!
This story didn't interest me as much as the first. That surprised me because I LOVE animals and would go BONKERS if my beloved furchild was missing, presumed stolen. The plot was pretty slow and meandering. There was too much about the bakery and baking. Why does Maddie need bagels? I've never heard of a pastry shop/tea room with bagels. Make up your mind and stick to a certain product no matter what the customers ask. Are you a pastry shop/tea room or a coffee shop/bakery? The coffee shops around here get their bagels from an artisan bagel maker rather than make them in house. They're really NOT that easy or quick to make. The massive number of typos and grammatical errors took away from my enjoyment of the story. On the plus side, the romance is developing nicely. I like a good slow burn and am happy with the way things are going. There is a slight spoiler for the first book so read at your own risk.
Maddie is so very determined. I would do exactly the same thing if my beloved furchild was missing but sometimes her anger is unjustified and extreme. However, I know I would behave the same way. Otherwise, Maddie is a good and loyal friend and a kind employer. She's rather naïve and doesn't think to check references. She trusts people based on gut feeling. That's all very well but when she's hiring underage interns, she also needs to check with their parents and teachers to make sure it's Ok with them. She should know the way the world works based on her experience in New York. I don't understand how Angel can be so sunny given her background. She's even more naïve than Maddie. Like Maddie, she's quick to judge people for the better and give someone a chance if she thinks they need it. Angel is a fun friend but sometimes she's wearying. She's too happy and optimistic.
I like Laura much better now I understand her issues. She isn't merely shy, she certainly has a non-verbal learning disorder. She has trouble reading non-verbal cues and has difficulty speaking up and saying what's on her mind, she's introverted and private which has nothing to do with her family background. After meeting her parents I feel very sorry for her. Gran is very sweet with Laura and for an old lady of 70 (LOL OLD at 70) she's very spry and able to keep up with the Girlz.
OMG ETHAN! SWOON! Maddie is still fighting her feelings for him and he's trying hard to give her the space she needs. He also wants her to stay out of police business so she doesn't get hurt. It nearly killed him to have her nearly get killed. I think he's fighting a losing battle and she behaves immaturely around him. Some day he's going to move on and she'll be jealous and regret being so awful to him.
Jed Clayton seems to be something of a town crank but he's Gran's friend (boyfriend?) and is seriously worried about his beloved furchild. That would make anyone cranky. He's a lonely old man who relies on his dog for companionship and feels lost without her. How heartbreaking! I don't believe Sissy ran off on her own because Labradoodles were bred to be service dogs. They're super smart and she wouldn't leave her human like that. I'm certain Maddie is right and someone is stealing pets. However, what would they want with Big Red? He's a street cat not a pedigree. That sounds like someone is deliberating targeting Maddie. Perhaps Jed did something to anger someone as well? What's up with Maude Oliver who is more than a crank? She's rude but that's nothing new. This time it seems like she's nervous and wants to confide in Maddie but can't make herself do it. What does she knows and
Maddie has two applicants for her new intern position that she thinks deserve a chance. Beth, a teenager without a resume, whose only experience is in retail, could be the right person if she's willing to learn. Meh. I don't get that Beth really wants to work in a bakery. She just wants a job or needs a job. Luke is the opposite. He's too needy and gung-ho. I don't trust him at all from the beginning. Is he lying? Apparently Maddie thinks he's good enough to be true and deserves a chance. Once we get to know him and meet his family, we can see that like Laura, he's a good kid who comes from a toxic family. His father is absolutely horrid and doesn't want what's best for his kid or what will make his son HAPPY. Not many parents do these days but Luke's father goes above and beyond. His brother is silent but sneering and probably the golden child who can do no wrong. Ethan seems way more mature than 18. He has the ability to reason with his parents and to compromise. That's unrealistic for a teenager.
Mickey Findlay is still at large and running for mayor. Everyone knows he's corrupt and if he wins (when) it will be just a front for him to do whatever scams he wants and to regain his family's land to develop it. The police need hardcore evidence and apparently he's very good at covering his tracks. Maddie is crazy in the way she tries to get that evidence. Irene Fitzgibbons is running for mayor against Mickey Findlay. She may be a snippy old lady and a big wig in the country club but something tells me this election is rigged. Is she working WITH Mickey or has she been coerced?
If anyone can catch Mickey Findlay, it's Detective Jones. He's new in town and seems to think Maddie was responsible for the death of a certain person. She reacts badly but he remains calm and looks solely at the facts. He's a real detective- detached and logical. It DOES seem like Maggie might be guilty and her alibis are all close friends and Gran. That doesn't help much. Deputy Funnel, a woman, is awful. She's lazy and rude. She needs lessons in customer service and listening to townspeople when they have a concern. She gives the police a bad name. On the other hand, Deputy Jacobs is emerging as a great guy with a warm heart, ready to lend a hand.
I'm eager to see where the love story is headed but the writing style is too stilted and amateurish for me. I'll probably check out the next though anyway. The recipes sound really good!
August 6, 2024
Clever Cozy
Such a cute story of friendship and mystery in this small town. I really enjoy how Maddie continues to expand her circle of friends as she brings in others who seem a bit lost in their current chapter in life. She’s always helping people and animals, with this book in the series being no exception. This is the first cozy mystery I’ve read that tied together pet napping, a murder and blackmail. It’s such a cute story! I look forward to continuing this series.
Such a cute story of friendship and mystery in this small town. I really enjoy how Maddie continues to expand her circle of friends as she brings in others who seem a bit lost in their current chapter in life. She’s always helping people and animals, with this book in the series being no exception. This is the first cozy mystery I’ve read that tied together pet napping, a murder and blackmail. It’s such a cute story! I look forward to continuing this series.
January 15, 2022
I really am enjoying these books!
Note: I purchased the Book-set 1-3 on November 12, 2020. I was finally able to read in December of 2021.
Note: I purchased the Book-set 1-3 on November 12, 2020. I was finally able to read in December of 2021.
May 9, 2022
I enjoyed the first book in this series and was striaght onto the next book. So glad I did because it was pawsome. I loved it. Being the owner of a year old kitten and puppy this book hits close to home and would be my absolute worse nightmare. Still the author managed to weave humour into the situation and kept me hooked. I liked the characters before but loved them this time round, the friendship between the four friends works so well now that they are over there jealousy and the romance is turning into something sweet. The mystery was good and I liked how one crime lead to another giving the author plenty of opportunity to add in twists and I never guessed who was behind it all. The author has also worked out the right balance between cooking in the bakery, home life and investigating, where we with the last book I did feel the mystery did take a step back. That's not to say the first book isn't worth a read or listen because it is and I am looking forward to the next book to see what trouble Maddie and her friends find themselves in.
Maddie's bakery is taking off and she finds herself busy interviewing potential new staff but when Big Red , her cat, doesn't turn up for his dinner, she starts to worry. As she is making up posters to put up all over town she is troubled to find that Big Red isn't the only pet to have gone missing. The police are busy with a hit and run murder and pets just aren't a priority, leaving Maddie and her friends to investigate. Can they find the fur babies and bring them all home? And why haven't all the owners reported them missing or willing to talk about it? Cooking or dating the sheriff is the last thing on Maddie's mind until her beloved cat is safely back in her arms.I
I liked the narrator and her soft voice has grown on me, making it pleasure to sit back and listen to the mystery unfold.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Maddie's bakery is taking off and she finds herself busy interviewing potential new staff but when Big Red , her cat, doesn't turn up for his dinner, she starts to worry. As she is making up posters to put up all over town she is troubled to find that Big Red isn't the only pet to have gone missing. The police are busy with a hit and run murder and pets just aren't a priority, leaving Maddie and her friends to investigate. Can they find the fur babies and bring them all home? And why haven't all the owners reported them missing or willing to talk about it? Cooking or dating the sheriff is the last thing on Maddie's mind until her beloved cat is safely back in her arms.I
I liked the narrator and her soft voice has grown on me, making it pleasure to sit back and listen to the mystery unfold.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 3, 2018
Big hunt for Big Red as Maddie the 🍩baker finds crime hitting too close to home🐈😨
July 1, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍I think I enjoyed this second mystery in the series even more than the first. Maddie, the main protagonist, has thoroughly settled back in to her hometown and the legion of friends, family, employees and townspeople she cares for just keeps growing. While the key mystery here centers on the worrying disappearance of numerous town pets, the evil wheeler dealer Findlay is back and some human deaths turn up the heat for police chief Ethan. Ethan remains the town's dreamboat bachelor, but he is still working to revive a relationship with Maddie that dried up when she left him to pursue her dream profession in New York.
This is, despite the worry and angst caused by the disappearance of beloved pets (including Big Red, Maddie's own Maine Coon cat), a positive and feel good cozy mystery with small town people involved in each other's lives and looking out for the greater good. Yes, there is a coterie of snobs and greedy opportunists, but with Maddie, her Girlz group and Ethan on the case, the folks in this small Oregon town have some crusaders that won't stop, even when in danger, until the mystery is resolved.
I enjoyed the plot, characters and writing, but I must admit Maddie is SUCH a procrastinator when it comes to dealing with Ethan's advances that the romance just isn't there for me. So, read it for its other strengths and you won't be disappointed, just don't expect much romance.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
July 1, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍I think I enjoyed this second mystery in the series even more than the first. Maddie, the main protagonist, has thoroughly settled back in to her hometown and the legion of friends, family, employees and townspeople she cares for just keeps growing. While the key mystery here centers on the worrying disappearance of numerous town pets, the evil wheeler dealer Findlay is back and some human deaths turn up the heat for police chief Ethan. Ethan remains the town's dreamboat bachelor, but he is still working to revive a relationship with Maddie that dried up when she left him to pursue her dream profession in New York.
This is, despite the worry and angst caused by the disappearance of beloved pets (including Big Red, Maddie's own Maine Coon cat), a positive and feel good cozy mystery with small town people involved in each other's lives and looking out for the greater good. Yes, there is a coterie of snobs and greedy opportunists, but with Maddie, her Girlz group and Ethan on the case, the folks in this small Oregon town have some crusaders that won't stop, even when in danger, until the mystery is resolved.
I enjoyed the plot, characters and writing, but I must admit Maddie is SUCH a procrastinator when it comes to dealing with Ethan's advances that the romance just isn't there for me. So, read it for its other strengths and you won't be disappointed, just don't expect much romance.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 23, 2018
Maddie is caught in the thick of it again. Things have moved on Maddie and Laura are working together and getting on great. Maddie finally gets that much needed extra body to help out around the bakery in the form of a young man named Luke. In her search she also finds the perfect person the help Angel in her hair salon in a young girl named Beth.
Maddie notices one day that Big Red her beloved cat is missing at tea but doesn’t stress to much till he doesn’t show for his breakfast. This is when things get really interesting. To top it all off she finds another dead body this time near the bakery. Maddie tries to convince Ethan that the missing animals and a car accident are related and so is the new murder which is a hit and run.
Ethan is falling for Maddie all over again and he is trying to convince her to give them a chance again. But Maddie is stubborn and still refuses because of Big Red missing. As they work together when a ransom has been requested things get hairy and Maddie comes to the rescue to save the day.
The book has a great ending and kept me captive for the whole book. If you love a good cozy mystery I can highly recommend this book and the other one in the series Apple Pie and Arsnic. I’m now waiting patiently for the next book in the series to see what troubles Maddie will face this time around
Maddie notices one day that Big Red her beloved cat is missing at tea but doesn’t stress to much till he doesn’t show for his breakfast. This is when things get really interesting. To top it all off she finds another dead body this time near the bakery. Maddie tries to convince Ethan that the missing animals and a car accident are related and so is the new murder which is a hit and run.
Ethan is falling for Maddie all over again and he is trying to convince her to give them a chance again. But Maddie is stubborn and still refuses because of Big Red missing. As they work together when a ransom has been requested things get hairy and Maddie comes to the rescue to save the day.
The book has a great ending and kept me captive for the whole book. If you love a good cozy mystery I can highly recommend this book and the other one in the series Apple Pie and Arsnic. I’m now waiting patiently for the next book in the series to see what troubles Maddie will face this time around
January 21, 2023
Bagels and blackmail is the second book in the Maple Lane cozy series. This book starts out with things going great for Maddie. Her bakery is doing really well, she’s made some new friends, and has a great group of old friends. However she can’t enjoy any of this once her best friend and furry companion is cat napped. Maddie starts looking for Big Red and she soon realizes that her cat is not the only pet that has gone missing. When she starts to investigate she finds there is definitely more to this than a few animals getting lost or running away.
This was a a great story. The mystery was well plotted; I thought I knew who was behind the pet thefts but not necessarily the murder. I didn’t see the person that was ultimately behind it all as the threat. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
The main thing I liked about this book was the honesty of the characters with each other. I quite enjoyed the friendships that the “Girlz” made with each other. There are several suspects which I like. I love guessing and I like it even more when the killer is revealed and I was way off. The writing had a nice flow to it and keeps your interest. I’m looking forward to continuing the series and continuing to see the adventures of the friends and Gran.
This was a a great story. The mystery was well plotted; I thought I knew who was behind the pet thefts but not necessarily the murder. I didn’t see the person that was ultimately behind it all as the threat. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
The main thing I liked about this book was the honesty of the characters with each other. I quite enjoyed the friendships that the “Girlz” made with each other. There are several suspects which I like. I love guessing and I like it even more when the killer is revealed and I was way off. The writing had a nice flow to it and keeps your interest. I’m looking forward to continuing the series and continuing to see the adventures of the friends and Gran.
March 31, 2021
** Bagels and Blackmail:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Summer set Bagels and Blackmail by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Drama packed with wonderful characters, hints at a few romances and a touch of violence. This cozy mystery contains a good recap of book one , Maddie's hiring Luke, the sinister plots behind Maple Falls politics and the dark undertones of abuse, murder and petnapping.
As Maddie's feelings for Ethan deepening and the Girlz enjoy their weekly cooking classes, Maddie finds herself searching for the missing Big Red and the victim of a petnapping scheme.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Summer set Bagels and Blackmail by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Drama packed with wonderful characters, hints at a few romances and a touch of violence. This cozy mystery contains a good recap of book one , Maddie's hiring Luke, the sinister plots behind Maple Falls politics and the dark undertones of abuse, murder and petnapping.
As Maddie's feelings for Ethan deepening and the Girlz enjoy their weekly cooking classes, Maddie finds herself searching for the missing Big Red and the victim of a petnapping scheme.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
September 10, 2023
After reading the first book in this series, I was ready to see what happened next in Maple Falls, Oregon with Maddie and Gran. Maddie is understandedly upset when her Maine Coon--Big Red and other pets have gone missing. The Maple Lane Bakery is running smoothly with Laura McKenzie now working as the barista and Luke Chisholm filling in as an intern. But then Maude Oliver is found dead and Maddie wonders if her death is somehow related to the mystery of the missing pets. Sheriff Ethan Tanner is on the case and Maddie and her Girlz are doing what they can. This is a fun addition to the first book with the interesting characters returning and the continued hint of a romance between Maddie and Ethan. I am ready to read book 3!
March 24, 2024
a great pet rescue mystery!
I liked that this is a series and so the characters kept building and the plots change to not be repetitive. There were several typos that can easily be fixed. The one issue I had with the book was that Big Red was given milk as a treat but cats cannot have milk like many movies/stories tell us since it’s bad for their stomachs. Most cat owners know this, and the few that don’t, I hope you learn. Not all cats have terrible stomach issues but it’s just something to think about. I also really like that the romance between Maddie and Ethan is a slow burn and it isn’t like she’s running to him at every chance. Overall, I loved the book and can’t wait for the next.
I liked that this is a series and so the characters kept building and the plots change to not be repetitive. There were several typos that can easily be fixed. The one issue I had with the book was that Big Red was given milk as a treat but cats cannot have milk like many movies/stories tell us since it’s bad for their stomachs. Most cat owners know this, and the few that don’t, I hope you learn. Not all cats have terrible stomach issues but it’s just something to think about. I also really like that the romance between Maddie and Ethan is a slow burn and it isn’t like she’s running to him at every chance. Overall, I loved the book and can’t wait for the next.
March 1, 2021
The word that comes to mind when thinking about Maddie, the main character is "feisty". She has a compassionate side and becomes very passionate at times to issues that affect her and her loved ones, but she will definitely act in a feisty way. In the second title of Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries, Maddie and others have discovered their pets missing, blackmail letters pop up all over and murder is afoot. Also, a mayor's race is part of the plot. Maddie is still giving cooking lessons to her Girlz and shop help is needed at her shop and Angel's. The town sheriff has both eyes on Maddie. Things get pretty murky and the plot is thick with tons of action. This is an entertaining read.
April 5, 2023
I like Maddie and Ethan as a couple, and just as a baker and a Sheriff so from the beginning, I’m already team Ethan. This time around pets are going missing and someone does end up dying unknown if it’s related to the pets or an actual car accident at first Maddie has no attention or desire to figure it out other than helping a fellow neighbor, Chad who’s dogs sissy is missing. That is until big red goes missing. now she wants to be more active and find out who is kidnapping the animals along the way she hires more staff. A very cute mystery that still holds my interest
October 8, 2022
A Pet Lover's Mystery
A growing number of missing pets, small businesses with teen age employees, local politics and an upcoming election, and a somewhat reluctantly budding romantic relationship (can't have a cozy mystery without one!) - all woven into the social layers of a small town. An interesting slate of characters with realistic personalities and backgrounds.
A fun read!
A growing number of missing pets, small businesses with teen age employees, local politics and an upcoming election, and a somewhat reluctantly budding romantic relationship (can't have a cozy mystery without one!) - all woven into the social layers of a small town. An interesting slate of characters with realistic personalities and backgrounds.
A fun read!
January 4, 2024
I fell in love with the first book of this series, so I continued reading. But now that I have finished the second book, I am wondering if I should continue. It disappoints me how this book has a lot of fillers. I skipped a lot of words before I got really into the story. However, I am still intrigued by how the book will end and how they will catch the culprit. That is why I am still holding on to this book.
January 12, 2024
Bagels and missing pets!
Maddie is hosting baking classes for her close friends (Angel, Laura and Suzy), teaching them how to make all kinds of goodies. I love the way these ladies react and tease each other, like the good friends they are. When Pet’s start disappearing around town, of course Maddie has to investigate, much to the Sheriffs dismay. This story really moves right along with p,entry of excitement, twists and turns!
Maddie is hosting baking classes for her close friends (Angel, Laura and Suzy), teaching them how to make all kinds of goodies. I love the way these ladies react and tease each other, like the good friends they are. When Pet’s start disappearing around town, of course Maddie has to investigate, much to the Sheriffs dismay. This story really moves right along with p,entry of excitement, twists and turns!
October 16, 2018
A whole lot of mystery going on
There was a lot going on in this book. It kept me on my toes keeping track of it all. No spoilers, so I can't elaborate. What I can say is that it was so much fun and very entertaining. I'll be reading the next book in this series at a later date. So many books so little time. I have another series that I want to complete.
There was a lot going on in this book. It kept me on my toes keeping track of it all. No spoilers, so I can't elaborate. What I can say is that it was so much fun and very entertaining. I'll be reading the next book in this series at a later date. So many books so little time. I have another series that I want to complete.
April 29, 2020
Enjoyable
Enjoyable cozy mystery read. Madison Flynn, Gran, the Girlz, and the very hot sheriff Ethan Tanner are back and on a mission to find out who has been petnapping from the people of Maple Lane, and sending sending threatening blackmail letters, after Big Red is kidnapped and someone is murdered near the bakery. Great characters ... And now I'm craving bagels.
Enjoyable cozy mystery read. Madison Flynn, Gran, the Girlz, and the very hot sheriff Ethan Tanner are back and on a mission to find out who has been petnapping from the people of Maple Lane, and sending sending threatening blackmail letters, after Big Red is kidnapped and someone is murdered near the bakery. Great characters ... And now I'm craving bagels.
August 24, 2022
I am truly enjoying this series of mysteries. Maddie & the Girlz are hot on the trail of missing pets. With the help of a goodlooking Sheriff, they keep digging until they find the pet-snatcher & bring Big Red home for Maddie. There are enough twists & turns to keep it interesting. I give it 5STARS!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2022
Bagels and Blackmail
Maddie is in the middle of all the action again in this well written cozy mystery. When her large cat goes missing, she discovers many others have also disappeared. There are lots of loveable characters along with some dubious ones to make this story interesting and flow easily. Enjoy the book.
Maddie is in the middle of all the action again in this well written cozy mystery. When her large cat goes missing, she discovers many others have also disappeared. There are lots of loveable characters along with some dubious ones to make this story interesting and flow easily. Enjoy the book.
July 2, 2018
Pets are missing and this includes Big Red. Maddie is on the case. There is mystery, friendship, danger, and a growing love connection. Love the new characters and I even like Angel in this one. Ethan is still swoon worthy!!
February 15, 2019
Cats and Dogs and mystery
When the town's pets go missing and a mayoral candidate is found dead the Girlz are off on another mystery. This is another delightful mystery featuring Maddie and Big Red.
When the town's pets go missing and a mayoral candidate is found dead the Girlz are off on another mystery. This is another delightful mystery featuring Maddie and Big Red.
November 3, 2019
#2
I read first book too but didn't have time to do a review, sorry. Cute,cute mysteries. Easy to read, not to long. Perfect lunch or travel length. Love how the characters are being developed. But of romance, sweet mind.
I read first book too but didn't have time to do a review, sorry. Cute,cute mysteries. Easy to read, not to long. Perfect lunch or travel length. Love how the characters are being developed. But of romance, sweet mind.
January 28, 2020
Entertaining
Maddie and her friends are embroiled in a mystery when pets in their small town go missing. The Girlz, as the group is called, work together to find the animals, when a body is found. This book is filled with warmth from the friendships and is very enjoyable.
Maddie and her friends are embroiled in a mystery when pets in their small town go missing. The Girlz, as the group is called, work together to find the animals, when a body is found. This book is filled with warmth from the friendships and is very enjoyable.
February 1, 2020
Excellent read
I couldn't put this book down. The heroine, Maddie Flynn is a very down to earth character the Girlz are a group of women who compliment each other while having different backgrounds and personalities. Can't wait to finish the series.
I couldn't put this book down. The heroine, Maddie Flynn is a very down to earth character the Girlz are a group of women who compliment each other while having different backgrounds and personalities. Can't wait to finish the series.
May 21, 2020
A well-written and fun read
The characters and the writing or very good, and the pacing was excellent.
There were a couple of problems. Somebody put in a hard paragraph where no paragraph should have been, and I didn't notice where the knife came from.
The characters and the writing or very good, and the pacing was excellent.
There were a couple of problems. Somebody put in a hard paragraph where no paragraph should have been, and I didn't notice where the knife came from.
June 6, 2020
Got to love those animals always
This book is full of love everywhere and in all the people and animals. I am glad the love shines through that the animals love unconditionally. Great book!!! GREAT read!!!
This book is full of love everywhere and in all the people and animals. I am glad the love shines through that the animals love unconditionally. Great book!!! GREAT read!!!
April 15, 2021
Cozy, fun mystery
As an animal lover and pet owner, I was shocked to hear about the crimes in this book. But it’s fiction. Or at least. Hope so. I like this one better than the first.
As an animal lover and pet owner, I was shocked to hear about the crimes in this book. But it’s fiction. Or at least. Hope so. I like this one better than the first.
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