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Winner Bakes All #3
Audrey Lane Stirs the Pot
Bestselling author Alexis Hall brings all the cozy charm of The Great British Bake Off to life in this quirky LGBTQIA+ romcom.
Audrey Lane is perfectly fine. Really. So what if she left her high-powered job as a Very Important Journalist—and her even higher-powered long-term girlfriend—to live a quiet life as a reporter for the second-biggest newspaper in Shropshire? And so what if she keeps hearing the voice of that same higher-powered long-term now-ex-girlfriend in her head night and day, constantly judging just how small Audrey's allowed her life to become?
She's fine. She's happy. She's perfectly within her groove. Do not-in-their-groove people get weekday drunk and impulsively apply for the UK's most beloved baking show?
All right, so maybe she's not completely fine, but being on Bake Expectations is opening her world again in ways she never anticipated. First through fellow contestant Doris, whose personal story of queer love during WW2 captures Audrey's heart, imagination, and journalistic interest like nothing has in ages. Then through Jennifer Hallet, the most foul-tempered (and fouler-mouthed) producer, woman, and menace Audrey has ever met. Jennifer should be off-limits, but her fire lights something unexpected inside of Audrey, making her want to burn back a million times brighter. A million times hotter. A million times more herself than she's been in a long, long time.
Audrey Lane is perfectly fine. Really. So what if she left her high-powered job as a Very Important Journalist—and her even higher-powered long-term girlfriend—to live a quiet life as a reporter for the second-biggest newspaper in Shropshire? And so what if she keeps hearing the voice of that same higher-powered long-term now-ex-girlfriend in her head night and day, constantly judging just how small Audrey's allowed her life to become?
She's fine. She's happy. She's perfectly within her groove. Do not-in-their-groove people get weekday drunk and impulsively apply for the UK's most beloved baking show?
All right, so maybe she's not completely fine, but being on Bake Expectations is opening her world again in ways she never anticipated. First through fellow contestant Doris, whose personal story of queer love during WW2 captures Audrey's heart, imagination, and journalistic interest like nothing has in ages. Then through Jennifer Hallet, the most foul-tempered (and fouler-mouthed) producer, woman, and menace Audrey has ever met. Jennifer should be off-limits, but her fire lights something unexpected inside of Audrey, making her want to burn back a million times brighter. A million times hotter. A million times more herself than she's been in a long, long time.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2025
107 people are currently reading
2538 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Hall
59 books15k followersOne of those intricate British queers.
Please note: I don’t read / reply to DMs. If you would like to get in touch, the best way is via email which you can find in the contact section on my website <3
Please note: I don’t read / reply to DMs. If you would like to get in touch, the best way is via email which you can find in the contact section on my website <3
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February 25, 2025Update 2/6/2025: there is in fact a full description on https://quicunquevult.com/book/audrey... that doesn't appear to have made its way over to Goodreads... the Powers That Be, whoever they are, need to get on this. an F/F romance with our protagonist and... and Jennifer Hallett?? so on board with that.
(if the Powers That Be would like to give me an ARC...? one can dream)
~~
Original Review from 2023:
I adore these books, and I am aggressively manifesting a nonbinary character into the romantic plot of this book - it's a trilogy, which makes it perfect reason give us all three.
Update 1/14/2024: Is this book still happening??
Per Hachette:
"Opposites attract in this irresistible, delicious, and laugh‑out‑loud romantic comedy from the USA Today bestselling author of Husband Material!"
On Sale: Apr 23, 2024
Update 4/17/2024: called it: Expected publication January 1, 2025 by Forever
Update 11/15/2024: Oh, there's a cover now, this does exist!
(if the Powers That Be would like to give me an ARC...? one can dream)
~~
Original Review from 2023:
I adore these books, and I am aggressively manifesting a nonbinary character into the romantic plot of this book - it's a trilogy, which makes it perfect reason give us all three.
Update 1/14/2024: Is this book still happening??
Per Hachette:
"Opposites attract in this irresistible, delicious, and laugh‑out‑loud romantic comedy from the USA Today bestselling author of Husband Material!"
On Sale: Apr 23, 2024
Update 4/17/2024: called it: Expected publication January 1, 2025 by Forever
Update 11/15/2024: Oh, there's a cover now, this does exist!
December 11, 2025
5 stars. Alexis Hall has rewired my brain because what the hell? How did I end up loving and obsessing over Jennifer when she's such a mean and unpleasant person? What does that say about my self esteem or lack thereof? I don't care because Jennifer fuckin' Hallet had me in a chokehold for 450 pages. She's not an Ice Queen as she doesn't melt in any way. She stays brash and rude and mean the entire time but we also understand that she cares for Audrey in her own unique way. There's no romantic gesture or I Love You's exchanged and I feel like it wouldn't have felt honest to the characters anyway so I didn't mind at all.
Okay, enough about my love for Jennifer this book was great. It's funny, the dialogue is full of bite and it's quick witted. Audrey is so incredibly charming and likable and I thought she was great for Jennifer because she knew how to handle her and go toe to toe with her when Jennifer was being an asshole. I loved their chemistry and banter a lot and just how snippy they were with each other. I can see how this book won't work for everyone because Jennifer is a tough pill to swallow as a character. She doesn't have a nice or soft bone in her body (and I love her for that did I mention that already??) and she is pretty terrible to Audrey a lot of the time but there was just something about her and this romance that really clicked with me. My one and only complaint is that I do think this book was a bit too long. It didn't need to be 450 pages because the plot didn't require that many pages but that's it. I loved everything else about it. I definitely want to go back and read books one and two because I thought this was a lot of fun.
Okay, enough about my love for Jennifer this book was great. It's funny, the dialogue is full of bite and it's quick witted. Audrey is so incredibly charming and likable and I thought she was great for Jennifer because she knew how to handle her and go toe to toe with her when Jennifer was being an asshole. I loved their chemistry and banter a lot and just how snippy they were with each other. I can see how this book won't work for everyone because Jennifer is a tough pill to swallow as a character. She doesn't have a nice or soft bone in her body (and I love her for that did I mention that already??) and she is pretty terrible to Audrey a lot of the time but there was just something about her and this romance that really clicked with me. My one and only complaint is that I do think this book was a bit too long. It didn't need to be 450 pages because the plot didn't require that many pages but that's it. I loved everything else about it. I definitely want to go back and read books one and two because I thought this was a lot of fun.
December 5, 2025
If you’re looking for your next LGBTQ romance and enjoy baking competitions, then I recommend checking out Audrey Lane Stirs the Pot! This book is genuinely funny, and I loved the banter between Jennifer and Audrey as it made me laugh so much while reading. However, I did struggle a bit with how their relationship developed because I think there was a lot of focus on Doris’s story and she was only a secondary character. I feel like I would have loved to see much more development between Audrey and Jennifer because the two have very interesting backstories which lead them to behave the way they do in this novel. Regardless of that, I adored the story. I love baking competitions and haven’t read one in a while, so this scratched an itch I didn’t even know I had! I also loved Audrey and Jennifer’s relationship and how they two are totally opposites and even grumpy vs. sunshine! Two of my favorite tropes!
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5 stars)
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5 stars)
December 11, 2025
Received from Edelweiss, thanks!
4.5 stars
Ooooh! It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to write the first review for a book! Eeee!!!
This is the third book in the Winner Bakes All series and to me, it had a very different feel to the first two. It had a different structure, almost telling three different stories at the same time. We have the main story, with Audrey Lane, then we have some information about her past relationship with, what I would consider to be, an emotionally abusive ex-girlfriend. Then we also have the story of Doris and Emily, which is told through extensive flashbacks.
Audrey is a small town reporter and when she starts talking to one of the other contestants on Bake Expectations she gets the feeling there is a story there. And there is. We learn about Doris’ life (she’s now 96!) and how she has quite the history with Patchley House, having been evacuated there during WWII, and then returning to work there in the 1950s. It’s a beautiful and sad story, though typical of the time, and I completely understand why Audrey was so drawn in.
Throughout the book we can see that Audrey has really been affected by her previous relationship, which she had been in since she left grade school. Her ex’s snide comments are frequently interrupting her thoughts, though I do love the amount of growth we see around this as the book progresses.
I also really appreciated how we see the contrast between Audrey’s terrible ex, Natalie, and her current love interest of Jennifer Hallett. We know from the previous books that Jennifer is a loud, sweary, mean-seeming woman, but as Audrey gets to know her, we sort of get to see behind that. Audrey makes multiple comparisons between Jennifer and Natalie, and I like that while she struggles with it a bit and wonders if she’s only ever attracted to mean women, we’re also shown how Natalie and Jennifer are nothing alike.
With having Jennifer as such a large part of the story, we get to see a lot behind the scenes and also get to know the host and judges of Expectations a lot more. That was really fun.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I think it wraps up the series really nicely. I’ve always enjoyed Jennifer Hallett’s character, and I think you can tell that Alexis also really enjoys her, as this book is a ton of fun, while also covering some more serious topics, which is something I’ve come to really love about Alexis Hall books.
4.5 stars
Ooooh! It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to write the first review for a book! Eeee!!!
This is the third book in the Winner Bakes All series and to me, it had a very different feel to the first two. It had a different structure, almost telling three different stories at the same time. We have the main story, with Audrey Lane, then we have some information about her past relationship with, what I would consider to be, an emotionally abusive ex-girlfriend. Then we also have the story of Doris and Emily, which is told through extensive flashbacks.
Audrey is a small town reporter and when she starts talking to one of the other contestants on Bake Expectations she gets the feeling there is a story there. And there is. We learn about Doris’ life (she’s now 96!) and how she has quite the history with Patchley House, having been evacuated there during WWII, and then returning to work there in the 1950s. It’s a beautiful and sad story, though typical of the time, and I completely understand why Audrey was so drawn in.
Throughout the book we can see that Audrey has really been affected by her previous relationship, which she had been in since she left grade school. Her ex’s snide comments are frequently interrupting her thoughts, though I do love the amount of growth we see around this as the book progresses.
I also really appreciated how we see the contrast between Audrey’s terrible ex, Natalie, and her current love interest of Jennifer Hallett. We know from the previous books that Jennifer is a loud, sweary, mean-seeming woman, but as Audrey gets to know her, we sort of get to see behind that. Audrey makes multiple comparisons between Jennifer and Natalie, and I like that while she struggles with it a bit and wonders if she’s only ever attracted to mean women, we’re also shown how Natalie and Jennifer are nothing alike.
With having Jennifer as such a large part of the story, we get to see a lot behind the scenes and also get to know the host and judges of Expectations a lot more. That was really fun.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I think it wraps up the series really nicely. I’ve always enjoyed Jennifer Hallett’s character, and I think you can tell that Alexis also really enjoys her, as this book is a ton of fun, while also covering some more serious topics, which is something I’ve come to really love about Alexis Hall books.
Read
December 13, 2025I really hoped this would be a return to form, but I hate it. God, I hated it. Well-written, funny, clever, I hated it I hated it I hated it.
Read
December 11, 2025This is a Doris appreciation post.
Doris (aged 96) is now tied for my favorite geriatric character in a romance novel with Gerald “What I mean is, I cried” Abraham from Kate Clayborn’s “Love at First.”
And Doris and Emily’s love story maybe even surpasses Gideon and Livia from “Again the Magic” as my favorite secondary romance storyline.
Even if you don’t like baking, or reality TV shows, or journalists, or self-described terrible women—read this book for Doris and Emily.
Doris (aged 96) is now tied for my favorite geriatric character in a romance novel with Gerald “What I mean is, I cried” Abraham from Kate Clayborn’s “Love at First.”
And Doris and Emily’s love story maybe even surpasses Gideon and Livia from “Again the Magic” as my favorite secondary romance storyline.
Even if you don’t like baking, or reality TV shows, or journalists, or self-described terrible women—read this book for Doris and Emily.
December 23, 2025
I guess I have to give this one 4 stars because I gave the first book in the series 4 and I still think that was the best book in the series, but I was tempted to give this one 5. I love how all three books are so different even though they have overlapping characters and are about the same competition show. My favorite part of this one was Doris. I wanted to keep going back to her story. But I did like Audrey and Jennifer's story too especially since they actually communicate with each other (even though they don't think they are good at communicating with each other). Even though I think Jennifer is a little over the top (I'm not sure a woman could get away with talking to her employees the way she does for that many years), I appreciate that she doesn't suddenly change because she fell for someone.
December 18, 2025
Banger finale to a banger trilogy
December 15, 2025
4.25 stars. Definitely my favorite of this series.
October 29, 2025
Within the framework of a GBBO-style baking show, this is the story of Audrey finding her passions in life, and it’s so much fun! I especially loved the Doris sections, learning her story going back to the Blitz and forward to the present day was just as engaging as Audrey’s storyline, and I was a little sad every time it switched POVs.
December 10, 2025
oh gosh so I unfortunately have another instance of me so looking forward to a book in a series that I have loved previous books in only for that newest one to let me down. I loved Rosaline Palmer. it is still my favorite of the series and I think it is a standout book. I really liked Paris Dalleincourt Even though his anxiety triggered my own anxiety.. and while I liked Audrey Lane as a character, I did not like this book very much.
Audrey Lane is a hobby Baker who drunkenly auditions for Bake Expectations and somehow she gets on. she has this controlling toxic ex that's always in her head and a lot of her thought process is what her ex would think which did get kind of annoying. but anyway Audrey ends up on the show and she's a journalist first and foremost and so she's always looking for new stories and interesting people etc. she notices pretty early that this season of fake expectations has both the oldest contestant ever and the youngest contestant ever. Alanis is only 16 and is the first friend that Audrey makes on the show. then she makes friends with Doris who is 96.
the highlight of this book for me were Alanis and Doris and then Doris's story. this book is very different than the last two and that the baking is there and is talked about but it isn't like a major plot point for the main character. the best part of this book for me was the life story that we get of Doris. Audrey doesn't intend to but essentially she starts interviewing Doris because Doris previously lived at patchley house during the war. she was relocated there and spent some time there and then worked there as a housemaid and in that time she actually falls for the owner's daughter which was very taboo and not allowed in the '50s.
it was by far the most interesting part of the book and the part that I wanted to just keep flipping through to find.
The worst part of this book is Jennifer hallett. we see Jennifer in the past books and she is not a pleasant person. I believe in a redemption arc, I really do but I don't think that she has one. she maintains her brash mean and obnoxious attitude through the entire book and really doesn't show any sliver of humanity. I did not like the romance and I do not think that it translated well to page. I kind of feel like I'm being a little harsh but it was not for me.
now I do still think this book has a lot of redeeming qualities and I think that it's worth it to read if you like a very bantery hate fucking situation. I personally am a very sentimental emotional person and I don't like it when people are mean. but if that's your jam, I think you will really enjoy these two and enjoy the side plots as well.
2.5 stars
Audrey Lane is a hobby Baker who drunkenly auditions for Bake Expectations and somehow she gets on. she has this controlling toxic ex that's always in her head and a lot of her thought process is what her ex would think which did get kind of annoying. but anyway Audrey ends up on the show and she's a journalist first and foremost and so she's always looking for new stories and interesting people etc. she notices pretty early that this season of fake expectations has both the oldest contestant ever and the youngest contestant ever. Alanis is only 16 and is the first friend that Audrey makes on the show. then she makes friends with Doris who is 96.
the highlight of this book for me were Alanis and Doris and then Doris's story. this book is very different than the last two and that the baking is there and is talked about but it isn't like a major plot point for the main character. the best part of this book for me was the life story that we get of Doris. Audrey doesn't intend to but essentially she starts interviewing Doris because Doris previously lived at patchley house during the war. she was relocated there and spent some time there and then worked there as a housemaid and in that time she actually falls for the owner's daughter which was very taboo and not allowed in the '50s.
it was by far the most interesting part of the book and the part that I wanted to just keep flipping through to find.
The worst part of this book is Jennifer hallett. we see Jennifer in the past books and she is not a pleasant person. I believe in a redemption arc, I really do but I don't think that she has one. she maintains her brash mean and obnoxious attitude through the entire book and really doesn't show any sliver of humanity. I did not like the romance and I do not think that it translated well to page. I kind of feel like I'm being a little harsh but it was not for me.
now I do still think this book has a lot of redeeming qualities and I think that it's worth it to read if you like a very bantery hate fucking situation. I personally am a very sentimental emotional person and I don't like it when people are mean. but if that's your jam, I think you will really enjoy these two and enjoy the side plots as well.
2.5 stars
November 30, 2025
*ARC Review, all thoughts are my own*
This book ended 4.5 stars, but it started at a 2.5. The first 200 pages were dulled with baking show episodes, repetitive language, and repetitive plot points that dulled the incredible banter and adorable main characters, which absolutely shined in the second half. The banter, let me emphasize further, made me laugh and even want to tell my husband about how funny it was. I loved the LGBT inclusivity (this is the most lesbian-loving novel I’ve ever read).
I will say, I didn’t love a lot of the writing choices being made. I felt Natalie was too prominent, as her snarky remarks showed up what felt like every page, and it didn’t seem necessary. These choices and the slogging of the first half was why it’s rated a three.
However, I do find this book is worth reading if you want an inclusive, funny, heartwarming novel that’s cute with baking involved. I will also say that you don’t need to read the other books in this series to read this one. I didn’t read the first two, and this one was great on its own, which is a huge plus. Overall, I do recommend reading this book. It’s a seasonal heart-warmer and great for a reading slump.
Thank you to my best friend for giving me the copy after receiving a physical ARC from the publisher at a book conference!
This book ended 4.5 stars, but it started at a 2.5. The first 200 pages were dulled with baking show episodes, repetitive language, and repetitive plot points that dulled the incredible banter and adorable main characters, which absolutely shined in the second half. The banter, let me emphasize further, made me laugh and even want to tell my husband about how funny it was. I loved the LGBT inclusivity (this is the most lesbian-loving novel I’ve ever read).
I will say, I didn’t love a lot of the writing choices being made. I felt Natalie was too prominent, as her snarky remarks showed up what felt like every page, and it didn’t seem necessary. These choices and the slogging of the first half was why it’s rated a three.
However, I do find this book is worth reading if you want an inclusive, funny, heartwarming novel that’s cute with baking involved. I will also say that you don’t need to read the other books in this series to read this one. I didn’t read the first two, and this one was great on its own, which is a huge plus. Overall, I do recommend reading this book. It’s a seasonal heart-warmer and great for a reading slump.
Thank you to my best friend for giving me the copy after receiving a physical ARC from the publisher at a book conference!
December 3, 2025
“The best gift, it turned out, was one you didn’t even realize you’d been missing until you were given it.”
Big thanks to Colored Pages Book Tours and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I just adore Alexis Hall. I devoured Boyfriend Material and it was over from there. He has such a way to balance humor with emotion to the point where I always find myself laughing but also loving the journey his characters go on.
I was so happy to be back in the world of Bake Expectations. The recurring characters in this series are so fun so it was a joy to be back with them. For Audrey, this is her chance to prove something after her breakup and move out of London. But she doesn’t expect the show to literally change her life, in two wildly different ways.
She connects with Doris, a nonagenarian who’s lived a vibrant life. By just talking with her she finds out these incredible details about her life during and after WWII, including her lost love. The chapters from Doris’s perspective form back then are great and add this additional layer to the story. It also creates tension between Audrey and show-runner Jennifer Hallet.
My favorite thing about this book was that it didn’t go the way I expected, between Audrey’s trajectory on the show and her romance with Jennifer. Their banter is excellent, but Audrey didn’t take it from Jennifer like others have, and I like that it shows a different side of Jennifer. This was just a great book, managing to perfectly balance all these different plot-lines. It’s fun and heartwarming, and perfect for anyone who loves The Great British Bake Off.
Big thanks to Colored Pages Book Tours and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I just adore Alexis Hall. I devoured Boyfriend Material and it was over from there. He has such a way to balance humor with emotion to the point where I always find myself laughing but also loving the journey his characters go on.
I was so happy to be back in the world of Bake Expectations. The recurring characters in this series are so fun so it was a joy to be back with them. For Audrey, this is her chance to prove something after her breakup and move out of London. But she doesn’t expect the show to literally change her life, in two wildly different ways.
She connects with Doris, a nonagenarian who’s lived a vibrant life. By just talking with her she finds out these incredible details about her life during and after WWII, including her lost love. The chapters from Doris’s perspective form back then are great and add this additional layer to the story. It also creates tension between Audrey and show-runner Jennifer Hallet.
My favorite thing about this book was that it didn’t go the way I expected, between Audrey’s trajectory on the show and her romance with Jennifer. Their banter is excellent, but Audrey didn’t take it from Jennifer like others have, and I like that it shows a different side of Jennifer. This was just a great book, managing to perfectly balance all these different plot-lines. It’s fun and heartwarming, and perfect for anyone who loves The Great British Bake Off.
December 20, 2025
Once again, NOT a Bake Off fan, but this series continues to be my kind of wholesome. For a change, the protagonist isn't a baker extraordinaire, and the tone is more wistful rather than chaotic. You get two romances for the price of one, with dual timelines, and spend a lot more time in the production side of things than the baking, which was kind of a cool departure from the last two. That said, I never could quite buy Audrey and Jennifer. There is an underlying theme of falling for someone who is kind of awful to you, and while there is SOME acknowledgement of it being traumatic, I somehow never like Jennifer being unnecessarily, deeply unpleasant and cruel to Audrey for a majority of the time. Something about their whole journey, never clicked for me, and felt rushed to some kind of HEA that's meant to be endearing but just didn't work for me. The banter, however, is very Alexis Hall, so no complaints on it being a very enjoyable audiobook.
December 1, 2025
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
While I loved the first book in the series, unfortunately Audrey Lane Stirs The Pot did quite hit has hard as it's predecessor. Audrey, a big personality at her small town newspaper, falls for Jennifer, the producer of a British baking competition show. These two are very much opposites. Audrey is endearing and a warm personality while Jennifer is cold, brash, and unpalatable. They some how make it work and help each other heal past relationship baggage. Overall the highlights of this one were Audrey, the contestants on the show, and the baking challenges themself. As a huge fan of a certain British baking show competition those aspects were delightful.
While I loved the first book in the series, unfortunately Audrey Lane Stirs The Pot did quite hit has hard as it's predecessor. Audrey, a big personality at her small town newspaper, falls for Jennifer, the producer of a British baking competition show. These two are very much opposites. Audrey is endearing and a warm personality while Jennifer is cold, brash, and unpalatable. They some how make it work and help each other heal past relationship baggage. Overall the highlights of this one were Audrey, the contestants on the show, and the baking challenges themself. As a huge fan of a certain British baking show competition those aspects were delightful.
December 18, 2025
I can always count on Alexis Hall. I really enjoy all of the Winner Bakes All books and it was kind of cool that this one was more about the behind the scenes. The commentary about Bake Expectations was so spot on (if we are comparing to the commentary about GBBO) and the commentary about reality shows in general. I love Jennifer so much and I love that she never changes her personality (and also I love that she hates restaurants so valid you anxious queen). It's not that I didn't enjoy the Doris stories, it just wasn't my favorite part of the book but basically I'll read anything by Hall at this rate.
November 9, 2025
Thank you to Sourcebooks for this ARC. I for sure enjoyed this one the most in the Bake Expectations series. It was really interesting to jump back and forth with Doris’ story and Audrey and Jennifer in present day. Jennifer being an unapologetic asshole (who does secretly care for people? was also genuinely refreshing. Pretty hot chemistry too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2025
Not my favorite of the series. It felt overly long but I did enjoy the narrNot my favorite of the series. It felt overly long but I did enjoy the narrator and all the foodie, British Bake Off vibes. I'm not sure what exactly made this a miss for me but I just couldn't get invested in the two FMCs. Overall an okay read but I won't go out of my way to recommend it.
December 20, 2025
A fun end to the trilogy, with solid characterisation and plenty of clashes between what the characters think they want and what they actually need. It's certainly a romcom but what this book does wonderfully is giving the characters much greater agency and aspirations beyond finding a love interest. It's not irrelevant, but the characters we spend most of our time with are well-rounded and read nicely.
December 19, 2025
A sharp, witty contemporary romance packed with chaos, chemistry, and big emotions. When Audrey’s life (and kitchen) get turned upside down, sparks fly, secrets simmer, and nothing stays neatly contained. Full of humor, heart, and Alexis Hall’s signature charm, this story is deliciously messy in the best way.
December 12, 2025
This was so good, I’m devastated that it’s over! I love Alexis Hall’s sense of humour - it’s so dry and witty and observant. It feels like the author knows the characters personally, they’re fully realized and their arcs develop so organically that you can’t help but get carried along for the ride. It doesn’t hurt that the audiobook narrator, Samara Maclaren, is spectacular. I will miss Bake Expectations!
December 23, 2025
I loved this book. I love Alexis Hall’s writing in general. I definitely loved this book. This is the conclusion to the Winner Bakes All series, where each book is standalone, with the plot centering around a reality baking show based on the real life one being what ties the books together. At least that’s what I’d thought going into this one. But this book, while standing alone completely, tied the other two together in a way I hadn’t anticipated. Maybe 1/3 of the way through I really noticed the title in relation to what was going on in the story. And that made me think of the titles of the previous two books and what they had to say about the characters and stories they featured. And here are spoilers for the trilogy, to include this book: only one book features someone winning the baking competition. It’s there in the title and it was a great, fun read. And it was perfect that the next book did not have its main character winning the competition both because by the time we got there, it would have felt wrong and forced to have that character win, as well as because Hall had already done that with the first book. With the main character winning in the first book and not winning in the second book, I went into this book thinking it could go either way in terms of the baking competition, but Hall surprised me by taking Audrey out of the competition way earlier than I (or she!) expected. It was brilliant. It sort of deconstructed the whole thing…even as the rest of this book deconstructed the facade of the “unscripted reality” show. I love the fact that the first book is very straightforward for the reader. There’s a lot going on for/with Rosaline Palmer, and Hall has other ideas and messages he’s conveying in that book beyond just a baking competition show. But insofar as the book follows the baking competition, that book is the most straightforward with the reader seeing every step of the ultimate winner’s journey. The next book goes in a different direction, and at the time I read it, I was aware of the different direction, but I didn’t realize that was also beginning to deconstruct the entire facade. This book completes that process, at risk, I suppose, of undermining the entire thing and possibly ruining the reader’s experience. Except that while I loved the baking show premise, and I love that Rosaline won the competition, I never cared as much about the competition as I did about the characters and their stories.
So, I also loved Audrey for multiple things, but mainly for the way she looked at the show. She’s deconstructing in from the beginning. Because of her journalism background (according to the narrative), she’s aware that the producer is editing the show to tell a story and from a very early point, can see which way the story is likely to be shaped. And it was so refreshing to have a character see and clearly state that element of storytelling. She’s aware that it’s not just what’s happening in front of the cameras, but that those behind the scenes are actively making choices too, to tell the story they want to tell. And if I’m reading a book - let’s say this book - and am thinking about what’s likely to happen next, I do think some in terms of the characters and where they are and what they’re doing and what choices they have, etc. But I’m also always, always thinking about the author and what the author is likely thinking or trying to get at. I used to think most people thought like this, but conversations with many people about this sort of thing have led me to revise my beliefs to thinking few other people think like this, even though that fact still surprises me.
So, it was extremely validating in a weird way to have Audrey thinking this way, (and I got all excited over the fact that Alexis Hall must think this way - or be able to think this way), and it was also rather validating that all the other contestants on the show got super upset and were astonished/dismayed/shocked all out of proportion to what it seemed like they should be feeling when Audrey tells them her sense of how the producers are going to shape the story of their season of the competition. I haven’t had such a strong reaction from anyone (not having been on and spoiled a reality TV show for the case mid-filming of said show), but I’ve had just enough of that sort of reaction to things I have said or suggested, that it resonated when Audrey got it. Also, the level of denial being so strong that no one said “wow, did you ever call this!” To Audrey when it got down the the finale of the show. Too true!
When Audrey argues with Jennifer about Doris climbing the hill for the first time I had a sharp realization that there’s a reason they say the US is a litigious country. I couldn’t imagine why this was an issue, and then I couldn’t imagine why Audrey didn’t lead with the lawsuit/insurance risk, which would have been my first argument in similar circumstances. Then I thought, “maybe it’s because I’m American?” It does come up the second time they argue about the issue. And it is (of course) the reason Jennifer gives in on the issue (more or less - Jennifer doesn’t like to show her soft side, so it’s at least the reason she’d give for giving in). But Audrey also wants to win on reasons other than strictly practical/financial, so that may be why she didn’t go there first rather than the UK being less litigious than the US. In the same circumstances, I would have gone with my strongest, best-chance-of-winning argument first and wouldn’t have cared why Jennifer gave in in the end, but that’s just me.
I did not like Jennifer in book 1. I thought she was abusive, really. I don’t remember her bothering me quite as much in book 2. I was very interested to see what on earth Hall was going to do with her in this book, and I definitely enjoyed how her relationship with Audrey evolved. I loved how Audrey dealt with Jennifer. I was fascinated by how essentially abusive Natalie seemed to me, and how that contrasted with Jennifer’s behavior. I liked the glimpse we got of Jennifer through Grace Forsythe. I liked that while I knew Jennifer would have some growing to do just from how she came across in the first book, Audrey also clearly had some growing to do as well. I liked that I did sort of find their relationship believable…I would have liked a scene or two or three of them in company with others, because it’s still hard to imagine Jennifer with Audrey’s family, or any other kind of polite-company sort of place and I’d have enjoyed a scene or two to give me a flavor of it. I loved the scene of Jennifer at Audrey’s flat with her stuffed animal, and of Jennifer taking Audrey’s quilt. And Jennifer’s utter shock and outrage at Audrey’s insult involving stuffed animals.
I also liked the history bits because women in general and LGBTQ people in general get written out of history or whitewashed out of history. But have always been there. The historical relationship depicted isn’t perfect. I appreciated that. It’s not necessarily the poster relationship for why LGBTQ relationships should be celebrated and included in history. And I liked that because it’s more real that way. Relationships are complicated. People are complicated. And complicated people have to fit inside complex societal structures and survive there.
Anyway, this is a terrible review since you really shouldn’t read a word of of without having already read the book, but I only write these for me, and mostly I’m the only one reading them, so I’m not going to worry about it. I loved the book.
So, I also loved Audrey for multiple things, but mainly for the way she looked at the show. She’s deconstructing in from the beginning. Because of her journalism background (according to the narrative), she’s aware that the producer is editing the show to tell a story and from a very early point, can see which way the story is likely to be shaped. And it was so refreshing to have a character see and clearly state that element of storytelling. She’s aware that it’s not just what’s happening in front of the cameras, but that those behind the scenes are actively making choices too, to tell the story they want to tell. And if I’m reading a book - let’s say this book - and am thinking about what’s likely to happen next, I do think some in terms of the characters and where they are and what they’re doing and what choices they have, etc. But I’m also always, always thinking about the author and what the author is likely thinking or trying to get at. I used to think most people thought like this, but conversations with many people about this sort of thing have led me to revise my beliefs to thinking few other people think like this, even though that fact still surprises me.
So, it was extremely validating in a weird way to have Audrey thinking this way, (and I got all excited over the fact that Alexis Hall must think this way - or be able to think this way), and it was also rather validating that all the other contestants on the show got super upset and were astonished/dismayed/shocked all out of proportion to what it seemed like they should be feeling when Audrey tells them her sense of how the producers are going to shape the story of their season of the competition. I haven’t had such a strong reaction from anyone (not having been on and spoiled a reality TV show for the case mid-filming of said show), but I’ve had just enough of that sort of reaction to things I have said or suggested, that it resonated when Audrey got it. Also, the level of denial being so strong that no one said “wow, did you ever call this!” To Audrey when it got down the the finale of the show. Too true!
When Audrey argues with Jennifer about Doris climbing the hill for the first time I had a sharp realization that there’s a reason they say the US is a litigious country. I couldn’t imagine why this was an issue, and then I couldn’t imagine why Audrey didn’t lead with the lawsuit/insurance risk, which would have been my first argument in similar circumstances. Then I thought, “maybe it’s because I’m American?” It does come up the second time they argue about the issue. And it is (of course) the reason Jennifer gives in on the issue (more or less - Jennifer doesn’t like to show her soft side, so it’s at least the reason she’d give for giving in). But Audrey also wants to win on reasons other than strictly practical/financial, so that may be why she didn’t go there first rather than the UK being less litigious than the US. In the same circumstances, I would have gone with my strongest, best-chance-of-winning argument first and wouldn’t have cared why Jennifer gave in in the end, but that’s just me.
I did not like Jennifer in book 1. I thought she was abusive, really. I don’t remember her bothering me quite as much in book 2. I was very interested to see what on earth Hall was going to do with her in this book, and I definitely enjoyed how her relationship with Audrey evolved. I loved how Audrey dealt with Jennifer. I was fascinated by how essentially abusive Natalie seemed to me, and how that contrasted with Jennifer’s behavior. I liked the glimpse we got of Jennifer through Grace Forsythe. I liked that while I knew Jennifer would have some growing to do just from how she came across in the first book, Audrey also clearly had some growing to do as well. I liked that I did sort of find their relationship believable…I would have liked a scene or two or three of them in company with others, because it’s still hard to imagine Jennifer with Audrey’s family, or any other kind of polite-company sort of place and I’d have enjoyed a scene or two to give me a flavor of it. I loved the scene of Jennifer at Audrey’s flat with her stuffed animal, and of Jennifer taking Audrey’s quilt. And Jennifer’s utter shock and outrage at Audrey’s insult involving stuffed animals.
I also liked the history bits because women in general and LGBTQ people in general get written out of history or whitewashed out of history. But have always been there. The historical relationship depicted isn’t perfect. I appreciated that. It’s not necessarily the poster relationship for why LGBTQ relationships should be celebrated and included in history. And I liked that because it’s more real that way. Relationships are complicated. People are complicated. And complicated people have to fit inside complex societal structures and survive there.
Anyway, this is a terrible review since you really shouldn’t read a word of of without having already read the book, but I only write these for me, and mostly I’m the only one reading them, so I’m not going to worry about it. I loved the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2025
The least baking-centered book in this baking show-themed series. Journalist Audrey is somewhat adrift when she impulsively applies to be on Bake Expectations (read: Great British Bake-Off). She’s very surprised when she makes it on the show. Even while she’s competing, though, she finds herself more interested in the stories of her fellow contestants than in the actual baking. Not to mention the hot but mean (but hot…) showrunner, Jennifer Hallet. For some reason Audrey isn’t afraid to stand up to the foul-mouthed producer, and Jennifer doesn’t seem mad about it. (I mean she does, of course, but not really?)
I don’t really go for the mean authority figure as love interest, so I had some trouble getting invested in their love story. I liked the story within a story of nonagenarian Doris and her long-ago love affair with the daughter of the stately home where the show now films. It took up a lot of real estate in the book, though, and gave less time for Jennifer and Audrey’s story to develop.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
I don’t really go for the mean authority figure as love interest, so I had some trouble getting invested in their love story. I liked the story within a story of nonagenarian Doris and her long-ago love affair with the daughter of the stately home where the show now films. It took up a lot of real estate in the book, though, and gave less time for Jennifer and Audrey’s story to develop.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
December 3, 2025
The third Winner Bakes All novel shifts in tone and structure from the earlier books, offering a story that blends present action, emotional excavation, and a rich historical thread. Audrey Lane, a small town reporter who joins Bake Expectations on a whim, soon finds herself more captivated by people than pastries. Her attention settles on Doris, a ninety-six-year-old contestant whose memories of living and working at Patchley House during and after the war slowly unfold through vivid flashbacks. Doris’s past romance with Emily becomes one of the book’s most memorable elements, adding both heartbreak and depth.
At the same time, Audrey wrestles with the lingering impact of an emotionally damaging relationship that lasted from adolescence into adulthood. Her ex’s critical voice interrupts her thoughts often, a reminder of how deeply those wounds run, but the story gives her space to grow beyond them. This makes her developing attraction to Jennifer Hallet even more compelling. Jennifer, the sharp-tongued and intimidating showrunner, initially appears abrasive, but Audrey gradually sees a softer side behind the bluster. The contrast between Jennifer’s guarded warmth and Natalie’s cruelty highlights how different genuine rough edges are from deliberate harm.
The romance between Audrey and Jennifer has a chaotic sparkle, full of clashing personalities, quick-fire banter, and simmering tension. Their dynamic has a definite sunshine-grumpy quality, and watching them challenge each other becomes one of the book’s biggest pleasures. The behind-the-scenes look at the baking competition, the quirky contestants, and the noisy set atmosphere adds humor and charm. If you love GBBO, this will definitely feel extra fun.
Not every narrative choice lands perfectly though. The early chapters feel repetitive, focused heavily on baking segments and constant intrusions from Audrey’s ex. And while I adored her, the Doris and Emily storyline takes up too much space, leaving Audrey and Jennifer’s relationship needing more room to develop. And, as much as a I HATE to say it, it grinds my gears so much when we get FF romance and both women play into negative female archetypes that make them seem unlikable. Both characters are prickly in a way that grates for a while. Still, the humor is strong, the queer representation is abundant and joyful, and the emotional payoffs are satisfying.
In the end, this installment has the usual Hall mix of wit and heart, even if it's not my fav of the series. It is warm, inclusive, and often very funny, while still willing to explore trauma, healing, and the complicated personalities that make love both challenging and rewarding, great for readers looking for a comforting queer romance with equal parts sweetness and bite.
3.5 stars
At the same time, Audrey wrestles with the lingering impact of an emotionally damaging relationship that lasted from adolescence into adulthood. Her ex’s critical voice interrupts her thoughts often, a reminder of how deeply those wounds run, but the story gives her space to grow beyond them. This makes her developing attraction to Jennifer Hallet even more compelling. Jennifer, the sharp-tongued and intimidating showrunner, initially appears abrasive, but Audrey gradually sees a softer side behind the bluster. The contrast between Jennifer’s guarded warmth and Natalie’s cruelty highlights how different genuine rough edges are from deliberate harm.
The romance between Audrey and Jennifer has a chaotic sparkle, full of clashing personalities, quick-fire banter, and simmering tension. Their dynamic has a definite sunshine-grumpy quality, and watching them challenge each other becomes one of the book’s biggest pleasures. The behind-the-scenes look at the baking competition, the quirky contestants, and the noisy set atmosphere adds humor and charm. If you love GBBO, this will definitely feel extra fun.
Not every narrative choice lands perfectly though. The early chapters feel repetitive, focused heavily on baking segments and constant intrusions from Audrey’s ex. And while I adored her, the Doris and Emily storyline takes up too much space, leaving Audrey and Jennifer’s relationship needing more room to develop. And, as much as a I HATE to say it, it grinds my gears so much when we get FF romance and both women play into negative female archetypes that make them seem unlikable. Both characters are prickly in a way that grates for a while. Still, the humor is strong, the queer representation is abundant and joyful, and the emotional payoffs are satisfying.
In the end, this installment has the usual Hall mix of wit and heart, even if it's not my fav of the series. It is warm, inclusive, and often very funny, while still willing to explore trauma, healing, and the complicated personalities that make love both challenging and rewarding, great for readers looking for a comforting queer romance with equal parts sweetness and bite.
3.5 stars
December 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Cackle-inducing foul mouth Jennifer Hallet is back to reprise her role as show runner for Bake Expectations, the cozy amateur baking show definitely not based on a real show. This time, one contestant in particular will drive her expletive output into overdrive.
Audrey Lane is curvy and crafty and nice, but she’s also level-headed, imperfect, and facing down her own failures. Jennifer Hallet is a spirit-crushing taskmaster who gets her footage at any price and weaves lucrative stories fit to please the masses. Journalist Audrey is not cowed by Jennifer in the least. The heat between them is instant.
While this isn’t my favorite of Hall’s, I still snorted out loud and still found so much to treasure in the stock character starters kneaded into shape by Hall’s deft hand. I also found the parallel (and not-so-parallel) stories of Audrey and Jennifer and Doris and Emily so compelling. I loved Audrey’s self-reflective narration, thinking about her past and future selves among past and future others. I like, too, that the older women get their day in the spotlight, rather than being a kind of life lesson to the young’uns (the only flaw O’Leary’s The Flatshare).
That said, Hall is maybe too good at making difficult women out of Jennifer and Emily, as both are deeply unlikable. Emily irredeemably so, even if it’s made clear that she didn’t have an array of social options in her life, and even if she turns up to give a positive Thelma and Louise moment. Audrey and Doris adore their mean, hot women, of course, but I was hoping for a pinch of something more tender or even human. Maybe something Jonathan Fucking Forest could teach them. Still and all, difficult main characters are an Alexis Hall specialty, and let’s be real, I’d probably let Jennifer step on my neck and swear at me.
Audrey Lane is curvy and crafty and nice, but she’s also level-headed, imperfect, and facing down her own failures. Jennifer Hallet is a spirit-crushing taskmaster who gets her footage at any price and weaves lucrative stories fit to please the masses. Journalist Audrey is not cowed by Jennifer in the least. The heat between them is instant.
While this isn’t my favorite of Hall’s, I still snorted out loud and still found so much to treasure in the stock character starters kneaded into shape by Hall’s deft hand. I also found the parallel (and not-so-parallel) stories of Audrey and Jennifer and Doris and Emily so compelling. I loved Audrey’s self-reflective narration, thinking about her past and future selves among past and future others. I like, too, that the older women get their day in the spotlight, rather than being a kind of life lesson to the young’uns (the only flaw O’Leary’s The Flatshare).
That said, Hall is maybe too good at making difficult women out of Jennifer and Emily, as both are deeply unlikable. Emily irredeemably so, even if it’s made clear that she didn’t have an array of social options in her life, and even if she turns up to give a positive Thelma and Louise moment. Audrey and Doris adore their mean, hot women, of course, but I was hoping for a pinch of something more tender or even human. Maybe something Jonathan Fucking Forest could teach them. Still and all, difficult main characters are an Alexis Hall specialty, and let’s be real, I’d probably let Jennifer step on my neck and swear at me.
"Are we done?" asked Audrey. "Do you want a cup of tea?"
Jennifer gave a look of disgust. "Of course I don't want a fucking cup of tea."
"Then, um, why aren't you leaving?"
"I'm establishing dominance."
"Okay, I know you're a highly successful woman. But if you'll take a tiny bit of advice, it's hard to establish dominance when you're holding a cuddly tortoise."
December 19, 2025
4.25 Stars
I really enjoyed this! Of the three Winner Bakes All books published so far, this is probably my second favourite, and only because I found Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake funnier (Paris I'm so sorry, your anxiety was too much for me).
This instalment actually is the most interesting conceptually - it's a buy one get one free sapphic romance kind of deal! - and honestly the historical romance could have been a story in itself, but it does fold in perfectly well within Audrey's story - my only complaint was that though I did love how it ended I feel like I wanted a little more time to really bathe in the moment.
Audrey and Jennifer's relationship is really fun. Their vibe is messy and problematic on the surface but sweet underneath. I liked the discussions around Jennifer and Audrey's ex, and how they had similar personalities (Audrey has a type lol), but while ex-Natalie was clearly toxic for Audrey, Jennifer actually brings out the best in her (and vice versa). I like that Alexis Hall always writes these kind of relationships - their couples will always have things to argue about, and kiss and make up over, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, it's just...normal. Rather than being some kind of unrealistic romantic ideal where everything is always perfect that would be hard to achieve in real life. (Even the parents in this book are like that!)
PS Could we have Colin's story next please? Three books of him being stressed, he deserves to have some fun. (Side note: I imagine him as Moblit from Attack on Titan, and if you get that reference you're groovy.)
I really enjoyed this! Of the three Winner Bakes All books published so far, this is probably my second favourite, and only because I found Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake funnier (Paris I'm so sorry, your anxiety was too much for me).
This instalment actually is the most interesting conceptually - it's a buy one get one free sapphic romance kind of deal! - and honestly the historical romance could have been a story in itself, but it does fold in perfectly well within Audrey's story - my only complaint was that though I did love how it ended I feel like I wanted a little more time to really bathe in the moment.
Audrey and Jennifer's relationship is really fun. Their vibe is messy and problematic on the surface but sweet underneath. I liked the discussions around Jennifer and Audrey's ex, and how they had similar personalities (Audrey has a type lol), but while ex-Natalie was clearly toxic for Audrey, Jennifer actually brings out the best in her (and vice versa). I like that Alexis Hall always writes these kind of relationships - their couples will always have things to argue about, and kiss and make up over, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, it's just...normal. Rather than being some kind of unrealistic romantic ideal where everything is always perfect that would be hard to achieve in real life. (Even the parents in this book are like that!)
PS Could we have Colin's story next please? Three books of him being stressed, he deserves to have some fun. (Side note: I imagine him as Moblit from Attack on Titan, and if you get that reference you're groovy.)
December 18, 2025
Audrey Lane is a journalist. Five years ago Audrey was living in London with her girlfriend, living the dream as a hard-hitting investigative journalist, but it didn't sit well with her and when their relationship crashed and burned, she returned to Shropshire to live near her parents and took a job on Shropshire's second largest regional newspaper. Now her typical day involves 'investigating' increases in parking charges and supermarket trolleys being dumped in the river.
After getting drunk and applying online, Audrey is a contestant on Bake Expectations, a thinly veiled homage to the Great British Bake Off. AS a journalist she is always interested in meeting new people and her personal quirk is wanting to know 'what happened next' so she quickly pigeon-holes her fellow contestants into the stock characters from previous seasons eg the hipster, the tradesman, the mother figure, the overly-precise one etc and realises that they have both the oldest and the youngest ever contestants in this cohort. Doris, the oldest contestant is familiar with the stately home in which the current season is being filmed, she was evacuated there during the war, and Audrey can't help but be fascinated by her story. Unfortunately, the show's producer, Jennifer Hallet is unimpressed by journalists generally and by Audrey specifically and she is very vocal about her mistrust. In fact, Jennifer may well be the most sweary character I have ever read. When Jennifer learns that Audrey has been 'interviewing' Doris she becomes incandescent with rage - is it wrong that Audrey finds that kind of hot?
There is so much here and I don't want to spoil it. But there are (obviously) lots of cheesy innuendos as befits a reality tv show about baking, there's romance, there's heartbreak, there's a lot of swearing, I repeat a lot of swearing, and a wonderful story that just carries you along.
Loved it.
After getting drunk and applying online, Audrey is a contestant on Bake Expectations, a thinly veiled homage to the Great British Bake Off. AS a journalist she is always interested in meeting new people and her personal quirk is wanting to know 'what happened next' so she quickly pigeon-holes her fellow contestants into the stock characters from previous seasons eg the hipster, the tradesman, the mother figure, the overly-precise one etc and realises that they have both the oldest and the youngest ever contestants in this cohort. Doris, the oldest contestant is familiar with the stately home in which the current season is being filmed, she was evacuated there during the war, and Audrey can't help but be fascinated by her story. Unfortunately, the show's producer, Jennifer Hallet is unimpressed by journalists generally and by Audrey specifically and she is very vocal about her mistrust. In fact, Jennifer may well be the most sweary character I have ever read. When Jennifer learns that Audrey has been 'interviewing' Doris she becomes incandescent with rage - is it wrong that Audrey finds that kind of hot?
There is so much here and I don't want to spoil it. But there are (obviously) lots of cheesy innuendos as befits a reality tv show about baking, there's romance, there's heartbreak, there's a lot of swearing, I repeat a lot of swearing, and a wonderful story that just carries you along.
Loved it.
December 10, 2025
Audrey Lane Stirs the Pot is a quirky, queer romcom that blends reality TV satire with a historical romance subplot, but while its concept had promise, the execution left me with mixed feelings. As someone who’s historically found Alexis Hall’s novels to be more enjoyable in theory than in practice, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself genuinely engaged—just not with the storyline I expected.
Audrey is likable enough as the protagonist, but her love interest, Jennifer Hallet (whose full name is repeated to an exhausting degree), never clicked for me. Their dynamic felt more like chaos than chemistry, and I couldn’t quite understand the romantic or physical pull between them—especially when they chose to hook up in a production trailer’s twin bed with a perfectly good hotel nearby. The behind-the-scenes look at the baking competition felt more satirical than celebratory, which may alienate readers expecting cozy GBBO vibes.
What truly captivated me was the secondary storyline of Doris and Emily Branningham, two women whose love story began during WWII and echoes through the halls of Patchley House. Their bittersweet history, revealed in tender flashbacks, grounded the book in real emotional stakes. I found myself waiting for more of their story with bated breath and rooting for a resolution that honored their connection. The season finale episode was full of surprises—some ridiculous, some wonderful—and it ended on such a high note that I found myself forgiving much of what came before. This one didn’t fully meet my expectations, but the glimpses of joy and heartbreak were worth the read.
Audrey is likable enough as the protagonist, but her love interest, Jennifer Hallet (whose full name is repeated to an exhausting degree), never clicked for me. Their dynamic felt more like chaos than chemistry, and I couldn’t quite understand the romantic or physical pull between them—especially when they chose to hook up in a production trailer’s twin bed with a perfectly good hotel nearby. The behind-the-scenes look at the baking competition felt more satirical than celebratory, which may alienate readers expecting cozy GBBO vibes.
What truly captivated me was the secondary storyline of Doris and Emily Branningham, two women whose love story began during WWII and echoes through the halls of Patchley House. Their bittersweet history, revealed in tender flashbacks, grounded the book in real emotional stakes. I found myself waiting for more of their story with bated breath and rooting for a resolution that honored their connection. The season finale episode was full of surprises—some ridiculous, some wonderful—and it ended on such a high note that I found myself forgiving much of what came before. This one didn’t fully meet my expectations, but the glimpses of joy and heartbreak were worth the read.
December 10, 2025
Waited for this book for a long time and then, alas, gobbled it down in a day. How I love the Winner Bakes All series, which is totally wonderful, and is up to Boyfriend Material etc. This is Alexis Hall at his brilliant, funny, debonair, earnest best. I love all three books in this series (I fear this is the end of it though how great it would be if a couple of the most fabulous romantic leads ever went forward with a slight twist in a new direction). I'm not giving away any of the plot here, and suggest not reading any descriptions. There is a real thrill for those who've read the first two books (though this one stands alone) as you start to realize what's about to happen. It's surprisingly and satisfyingly structured. Maybe even my favorite of these three wonderful romances that are also deeply thoughtful about what it takes for people to be able and willing to find out who they are, what they need.
There's just enough of the outside world here to feel real and give the books depth and not so much as to remind us (Writing this at the end of 2025 in the US and from the, I hope temporary, ruins of civilization). But if Alexis Hall decides to write about the real world, I'd read that too. A little wistfulness there, I think. But maybe it's just that we all want to write all the books, not only those that are ours to tell. Meanwhile he's great about reality TV, queer love of all kinds including bad relationships and great relationships, as well as parental and job issues...this one gets pretty existential, without ever sinking under the weight of the ideas or feeling as if it's the author rather than the character wrestling. Worth the wait!
There's just enough of the outside world here to feel real and give the books depth and not so much as to remind us (Writing this at the end of 2025 in the US and from the, I hope temporary, ruins of civilization). But if Alexis Hall decides to write about the real world, I'd read that too. A little wistfulness there, I think. But maybe it's just that we all want to write all the books, not only those that are ours to tell. Meanwhile he's great about reality TV, queer love of all kinds including bad relationships and great relationships, as well as parental and job issues...this one gets pretty existential, without ever sinking under the weight of the ideas or feeling as if it's the author rather than the character wrestling. Worth the wait!
December 7, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC for review of this book, thank you to NetGalley!
3.5 stars. If you enjoy baking shows, you will be sure to love this one. It truly made me want to start watching the real-life baking show that this seemed to be based on. If you're looking for a sapphic romance with humor that also touches on some more serious topics, this could be the book for you!
With that being said, I think that this could have been done a bit better and I was a bit disappointed with the execution. Audrey is wholesome and lovely and Jennifer, our love interest, is very mean and unnecessarily cruel for a lot of the book. I think the Doris/Emily plot was interesting but not enough to take away time from our main couple. I think Jennifer needed a bit more redemption to make her a more believable love interest who the reader wants to root for. She would boss Audrey around and Audrey would think "hm, I don't really like being bossed around like that" and then do what she told her to do anyway, and that dynamic was not something I enjoyed. It was pretty low on the spice meter for me, but I think that if you're looking for a cozy rom com that might be perfect.
I still had a good time reading it and am glad to have had the opportunity to read it early as I have been a fan of Alexis Hall's work in the past.
3.5 stars. If you enjoy baking shows, you will be sure to love this one. It truly made me want to start watching the real-life baking show that this seemed to be based on. If you're looking for a sapphic romance with humor that also touches on some more serious topics, this could be the book for you!
With that being said, I think that this could have been done a bit better and I was a bit disappointed with the execution. Audrey is wholesome and lovely and Jennifer, our love interest, is very mean and unnecessarily cruel for a lot of the book. I think the Doris/Emily plot was interesting but not enough to take away time from our main couple. I think Jennifer needed a bit more redemption to make her a more believable love interest who the reader wants to root for. She would boss Audrey around and Audrey would think "hm, I don't really like being bossed around like that" and then do what she told her to do anyway, and that dynamic was not something I enjoyed. It was pretty low on the spice meter for me, but I think that if you're looking for a cozy rom com that might be perfect.
I still had a good time reading it and am glad to have had the opportunity to read it early as I have been a fan of Alexis Hall's work in the past.
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