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Maple Lane #3
Cookies and Chaos
The clues crumble when Murder comes to town!Using her bakery and expertise, Madeline Flynn helps the sheriff’s twin nephews with their cookie sales—until strange things happen at the community center where they sell them.
With a puzzling death, vandalism and a nasty scam, the danger on their doorstep can’t be ignored. Maddie is once again whisked up in an investigation that will take all her sleuthing skills.
Gran, a posse of girlfriends, plus Big Red, her faithful Maine coon, won’t let her do it alone. Along with the handsome sheriff, they’re wading through clues as thick as cookie dough, hoping that the timer won’t go off on another murder.
Have they taken on more than they can chew?
The Maple Lane Mysteries are light, cozy mysteries featuring a quirky cat-loving bakery owner who discovers she’s a talented amateur sleuth.
Delicious Cozy Mysteries with free recipes.
"A compelling mystery with fabulous characters. I love the recipes as well as Madeline. This book is well written with plenty of twists to keep me guessing to the end. I am looking forward to the next book by this author."
"Another wonderful installment to the Maple Lane Bakery Series. Maddie, Ethan, Big Red, Gran, and the Girlz are back for another mystery in their small town. It’s a fast-paced story to keep you reading until the end. Also, things are heating up between Maddie and Sheriff Tanner that you don’t want to miss!
Catch up with Maddie’s other Maple Lane Sugar and SlicedBook 1: Apple Pie and ArsenicBook 2: Bagels and BlackmailBook 3: Cookies and ChaosBook 4: Doughnuts and DisasterBook 5: Eclairs and ExtortionBook 6: Fudge and FrenemiesBook 7: Gingerbread and GunshotsBook 8: Honey Cake and Homicide - preorder now!
C. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. Cheryl lives in a quiet suburb with her wonderful husband, whom she married the moment she left school (yes, they were high school sweethearts). With three married children and seven grandchildren 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 loves family times, baking, rambling walks, and her quest for the perfect latte.
With a puzzling death, vandalism and a nasty scam, the danger on their doorstep can’t be ignored. Maddie is once again whisked up in an investigation that will take all her sleuthing skills.
Gran, a posse of girlfriends, plus Big Red, her faithful Maine coon, won’t let her do it alone. Along with the handsome sheriff, they’re wading through clues as thick as cookie dough, hoping that the timer won’t go off on another murder.
Have they taken on more than they can chew?
The Maple Lane Mysteries are light, cozy mysteries featuring a quirky cat-loving bakery owner who discovers she’s a talented amateur sleuth.
Delicious Cozy Mysteries with free recipes.
"A compelling mystery with fabulous characters. I love the recipes as well as Madeline. This book is well written with plenty of twists to keep me guessing to the end. I am looking forward to the next book by this author."
"Another wonderful installment to the Maple Lane Bakery Series. Maddie, Ethan, Big Red, Gran, and the Girlz are back for another mystery in their small town. It’s a fast-paced story to keep you reading until the end. Also, things are heating up between Maddie and Sheriff Tanner that you don’t want to miss!
Catch up with Maddie’s other Maple Lane Sugar and SlicedBook 1: Apple Pie and ArsenicBook 2: Bagels and BlackmailBook 3: Cookies and ChaosBook 4: Doughnuts and DisasterBook 5: Eclairs and ExtortionBook 6: Fudge and FrenemiesBook 7: Gingerbread and GunshotsBook 8: Honey Cake and Homicide - preorder now!
C. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. Cheryl lives in a quiet suburb with her wonderful husband, whom she married the moment she left school (yes, they were high school sweethearts). With three married children and seven grandchildren 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 loves family times, baking, rambling walks, and her quest for the perfect latte.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2018
About the author
C.A. Phipps
32 books856 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 39 reviews
August 16, 2022
Sheriff Ethan’s twin 10 year old nephews have ask Maddie to help them bake cookies for them to sell to earn money to buy new bicycles. Maddie isn’t sure she has time but when one of her interns offer to help the boys she allows them to use the shop’s kitchen. The boys bake their cookies and go to sell them at the retirement home. Meanwhile something strange seems to be going on at the retirement home. Knowing some of Maddie’s grandmother’s friends could be in danger Maddie decides to get invoved in the murder investigation of a delivery man.
Maddie is a likable protagonist. She is smart, compassionate, and loyal to her family and friends. She and Ethan have great chemistry and their relationship seems going really well. The mystery is full of surprises and moves at a face pace. I recommend this to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
Maddie is a likable protagonist. She is smart, compassionate, and loyal to her family and friends. She and Ethan have great chemistry and their relationship seems going really well. The mystery is full of surprises and moves at a face pace. I recommend this to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
October 4, 2021
Maddie Flynn has her hands full with her bakery and her cooking classes with friends, which she might take public. Her relationship with Sheriff Ethan Tanner has progressed past friendship although they have yet to go on a date. When his precocious nephews ask Maddie for help baking cookies to sell to raise money for new bikes, she can hardly say no but when will she have the time? When her intern, Luke, volunteers, Maddie (with Ethan and his sister's approval) agrees to let the boys use the bakery. Everyone keeps warning her about the chaos of having twin 10-year-old boys at the bakery. Will it survive? Will Maddie survive seeing her beloved bakery destroyed by twin terrors? Meanwhile, she has some actual problems. Her supply delivery person is MIA and some shady characters visit her friend Suzy's mother at her art gallery one night, terrifying both Cora and Maddie. Who are they and what do they want? Maddie has a pretty good idea they're connected to the wet painting she found in the gallery. Sheriff Tanner is searching for a mysterious white van parked where it shouldn't be and looking for the vehicle that made track marks on the town green and country club. Is there a connection? Then Maddie's delivery man Owen turns up dead and Maddie is sad and mad. Ethan is scared! He's going to make sure Maddie stays out of things that don't concern her THIS time. However, the locals all think she did such a great job with the previous two murders that she should be able to solve this one. They also seem to think her relationship with Ethan is more than what it actually is. Is it time to act on either one of those things or both? Are sleuthing and a relationship with the sheriff even compatible?
This story is backwards. We know WHO but have to figure out WHAT and HOW and whether there's a connection to all the strange events. WHAT was painfully obvious from the moment Maddie discovers a wet painting in the gallery. DUH! So we have who (some of them), what and now they have to gather evidence. The relationship is going full tilt now with dates and kissing. woohoo! This book is mostly free from the errors that plagued the previous book but the second half certainly has more than the first. It would be nice if the author corrected them. I also found the Britishisms odd for an American character. You could say Maddie picked them up from Gran and everyone else from her but having a grown man wearing a JUMPER is just asking for people to laugh hysterically. Yes I know what a jumper is in British but does everyone reading this book know that? And um pasties... in American that's not something edible and doesn't belong in a cozy mystery. I know it's a filled pastry but it's an unfamiliar word in that context. As always the recipes sound amazing! There are big spoilers for the previous book so read at your own risk.
I finally like Maddie. She's stopped being immature and started talking to Ethan. He's always been honest with her and completely swoony. She needs to get over her hangups. At this point, she's being shy and doesn't like the whole world to know her business. She likes Ethan as a friend but doesn't want to ruin that friendship. Understandable but there's no denying the attraction between them. FINALLY we progress to some hot kissing, sweet kisses and even talking. Ethan stops trying to control Maddie, knowing she won't listen. Now he allows her to puzzle out clues with him and to have his deputies follow her around to make sure she's safe. He respects her intelligence and her stubbornness while still doing his job. I like that. As for a romantic partnership- move over Maddie. He's a fun and adoring uncle while still knowing how to discipline the boys effectively, an excellent sheriff devoted to the community even when he's chasing something that seems kind of silly. He learned his lesson last time! He adores Maddie and is a very romantic man. She better realize that ASAP or she's going to lose him.
Gran is sweet, loving and caring but she's a but cheeky. She tries too hard to meddle in Maddie's life and now she's been successful, she's trying it with Laura. I feel sorry for Laura. You can't make someone with her issues be pushy. While it may seem obvious she likes Deputy Jacobs and he's crazy about her, they have to do what's right for them. Getting together and walking the dogs sounds like the perfect date for me. It worked for Simone Biles!
We get to know Suzy better here. She's been the quiet one of the bunch. Suzy is tough when it comes to work but all heart at home. She adores her parents but for a grown woman, she seems to think life is a fairy tale and her parents are so crazy about each other they never fight. Yeaahhh riight. For a smart woman, she's blind when it comes to her family. She's so loyal to her parents she's willing to do what it takes to protect them, even if it means lying to the police and making Maddie keep things from Ethan. That's not cool. Suzy's mother Cora is a free spirit. An artist, she owns the local art gallery. She acknowledges taste is subjective so she'll bring in art that she doesn't care for personally because someone else might. That's a good businesswoman. Her husband, Mr.
Gran's friend Mavis is a busybody. She's a lonely old lady and seems to get her entertainment from gossip. What she doesn't know she makes up in her imagination. She means well but I loathe nosy people. Like Laura, I'm a private person and don't like everyone knowing my business. Mavis is embarrassing. She's kind and a good friend too, though, and worried about her missing neighbor. Another lady at the community center, Nora, is an old sourpuss. She's the opposite of Maddie's friend Angel. Nora is a glass half empty kind of person and never has anything nice to say. She's quick to judge people and make assumptions, including pointing out that Maddie always seems to know the dead person. Uh oh! Is she just a pessimist? Does she have dementia or is there something more sinister afoot? Maybe she's jealous of Gran and Mavis always knowing things first or jealous of their friendship or something.
The deliveryman, Owen, seems like a nice enough guy. Lately though he's seemed sad and distant. Was his death the suicide it looks like at first? He claims he didn't have any family nearby but I suspect he's estranged from his family and they are nearby. How sad. He's always been polite and punctual with Maddie until now. Yet he's lurking around, frightening people just sitting in his van and asking questions about artwork he can't afford to buy. When the truth is revealed at the end, it makes the story heartbreaking. I think Owen was a good guy who has accidentally gotten mixed up in something bad.
Ethan's sister, Layla, is a great mom. She works hard to care for her boys as a single mother and tolerates no nonsense. She isn't mean, but tough because her sons are twins and young. They're unruly little boys, very stereotypical because I know girls like that too. I like Layla and I think she should be included in the Girlz. Luke, Maddie's intern, is too good to be true. Maddie took a chance on him so he's taking a chance of Layla's boys. That's not quite the same thing but if he enjoys working with children then go for it. He's very patient and tolerant anyway. Beth, Angel's intern, is coming out of her shell. She's learning to trust people and let them know what she's thinking. She's very sweet and kind. Jed Clayton has come around now he has his Sissy back. He can't do enough to help Maddie or praise her. That's very nice of him and he does seem to be a good and loving pet parent.
Detective Jones appears again. He's thoughtful and logical. This time he seems to believe Maddie and could use her help. He gives her his number which means he trusts her. There may be a romantic subplot in the works for him soon.
Nicholas Brack is a famous artist who lives in Maple Falls. He's too arrogant to mingle with the locals and his art sells for megabucks. Sadly, he hasn't painted anything in awhile, since his wife died. Is he connected to the mystery? I can take one big guess and I think he will appear in person in the story to complicate the mystery. I don't really have much sympathy for him. His wife, E. Wilson, was also a talented painter and her works command even more money than his. Was her death natural or was he jealous? Mr. Smith and Mr. Chance are two oily characters, like out of a gangster film, who without actually doing anything, manage to scare Cora and Maddie. Mr. Smith is sleazy and insincere and his associate, Mr. Chance, sounds like a hired goon. He's suspicious and unfriendly. What do they want? They're clearly gangsters but are they for real or wannabe mafioso? Mr. Bertram Langham lives at the retirement community next to Mavis. He's missing, like Owen, and left his cat behind. If he didn't have a cat, I'd say he went AWOL because he was involved in shady business PROBABLY for Mickey Findlay but he wouldn't leave his pet alone I don't think. He's not a nice character once we get to know him but he's nuanced and in a tough spot. I almost feel sorry for him.
I liked this one the best of the series so far. I'll try one more but I don't know if I'll finish the series.
This story is backwards. We know WHO but have to figure out WHAT and HOW and whether there's a connection to all the strange events. WHAT was painfully obvious from the moment Maddie discovers a wet painting in the gallery. DUH! So we have who (some of them), what and now they have to gather evidence. The relationship is going full tilt now with dates and kissing. woohoo! This book is mostly free from the errors that plagued the previous book but the second half certainly has more than the first. It would be nice if the author corrected them. I also found the Britishisms odd for an American character. You could say Maddie picked them up from Gran and everyone else from her but having a grown man wearing a JUMPER is just asking for people to laugh hysterically. Yes I know what a jumper is in British but does everyone reading this book know that? And um pasties... in American that's not something edible and doesn't belong in a cozy mystery. I know it's a filled pastry but it's an unfamiliar word in that context. As always the recipes sound amazing! There are big spoilers for the previous book so read at your own risk.
I finally like Maddie. She's stopped being immature and started talking to Ethan. He's always been honest with her and completely swoony. She needs to get over her hangups. At this point, she's being shy and doesn't like the whole world to know her business. She likes Ethan as a friend but doesn't want to ruin that friendship. Understandable but there's no denying the attraction between them. FINALLY we progress to some hot kissing, sweet kisses and even talking. Ethan stops trying to control Maddie, knowing she won't listen. Now he allows her to puzzle out clues with him and to have his deputies follow her around to make sure she's safe. He respects her intelligence and her stubbornness while still doing his job. I like that. As for a romantic partnership- move over Maddie. He's a fun and adoring uncle while still knowing how to discipline the boys effectively, an excellent sheriff devoted to the community even when he's chasing something that seems kind of silly. He learned his lesson last time! He adores Maddie and is a very romantic man. She better realize that ASAP or she's going to lose him.
Gran is sweet, loving and caring but she's a but cheeky. She tries too hard to meddle in Maddie's life and now she's been successful, she's trying it with Laura. I feel sorry for Laura. You can't make someone with her issues be pushy. While it may seem obvious she likes Deputy Jacobs and he's crazy about her, they have to do what's right for them. Getting together and walking the dogs sounds like the perfect date for me. It worked for Simone Biles!
We get to know Suzy better here. She's been the quiet one of the bunch. Suzy is tough when it comes to work but all heart at home. She adores her parents but for a grown woman, she seems to think life is a fairy tale and her parents are so crazy about each other they never fight. Yeaahhh riight. For a smart woman, she's blind when it comes to her family. She's so loyal to her parents she's willing to do what it takes to protect them, even if it means lying to the police and making Maddie keep things from Ethan. That's not cool. Suzy's mother Cora is a free spirit. An artist, she owns the local art gallery. She acknowledges taste is subjective so she'll bring in art that she doesn't care for personally because someone else might. That's a good businesswoman. Her husband, Mr.
Gran's friend Mavis is a busybody. She's a lonely old lady and seems to get her entertainment from gossip. What she doesn't know she makes up in her imagination. She means well but I loathe nosy people. Like Laura, I'm a private person and don't like everyone knowing my business. Mavis is embarrassing. She's kind and a good friend too, though, and worried about her missing neighbor. Another lady at the community center, Nora, is an old sourpuss. She's the opposite of Maddie's friend Angel. Nora is a glass half empty kind of person and never has anything nice to say. She's quick to judge people and make assumptions, including pointing out that Maddie always seems to know the dead person. Uh oh! Is she just a pessimist? Does she have dementia or is there something more sinister afoot? Maybe she's jealous of Gran and Mavis always knowing things first or jealous of their friendship or something.
The deliveryman, Owen, seems like a nice enough guy. Lately though he's seemed sad and distant. Was his death the suicide it looks like at first? He claims he didn't have any family nearby but I suspect he's estranged from his family and they are nearby. How sad. He's always been polite and punctual with Maddie until now. Yet he's lurking around, frightening people just sitting in his van and asking questions about artwork he can't afford to buy. When the truth is revealed at the end, it makes the story heartbreaking. I think Owen was a good guy who has accidentally gotten mixed up in something bad.
Ethan's sister, Layla, is a great mom. She works hard to care for her boys as a single mother and tolerates no nonsense. She isn't mean, but tough because her sons are twins and young. They're unruly little boys, very stereotypical because I know girls like that too. I like Layla and I think she should be included in the Girlz. Luke, Maddie's intern, is too good to be true. Maddie took a chance on him so he's taking a chance of Layla's boys. That's not quite the same thing but if he enjoys working with children then go for it. He's very patient and tolerant anyway. Beth, Angel's intern, is coming out of her shell. She's learning to trust people and let them know what she's thinking. She's very sweet and kind. Jed Clayton has come around now he has his Sissy back. He can't do enough to help Maddie or praise her. That's very nice of him and he does seem to be a good and loving pet parent.
Detective Jones appears again. He's thoughtful and logical. This time he seems to believe Maddie and could use her help. He gives her his number which means he trusts her. There may be a romantic subplot in the works for him soon.
Nicholas Brack is a famous artist who lives in Maple Falls. He's too arrogant to mingle with the locals and his art sells for megabucks. Sadly, he hasn't painted anything in awhile, since his wife died. Is he connected to the mystery? I can take one big guess and I think he will appear in person in the story to complicate the mystery. I don't really have much sympathy for him. His wife, E. Wilson, was also a talented painter and her works command even more money than his. Was her death natural or was he jealous? Mr. Smith and Mr. Chance are two oily characters, like out of a gangster film, who without actually doing anything, manage to scare Cora and Maddie. Mr. Smith is sleazy and insincere and his associate, Mr. Chance, sounds like a hired goon. He's suspicious and unfriendly. What do they want? They're clearly gangsters but are they for real or wannabe mafioso? Mr. Bertram Langham lives at the retirement community next to Mavis. He's missing, like Owen, and left his cat behind. If he didn't have a cat, I'd say he went AWOL because he was involved in shady business PROBABLY for Mickey Findlay but he wouldn't leave his pet alone I don't think. He's not a nice character once we get to know him but he's nuanced and in a tough spot. I almost feel sorry for him.
I liked this one the best of the series so far. I'll try one more but I don't know if I'll finish the series.
May 19, 2022
I enjoyed this book. This is proving to be an entertaining and fun series that I just can't get enough of. The reason I like it so much is because of the wonderful characters, I just loved the twins in this book but all the characters are likeable and have a special bond that brings them together nicely and it's a nice development from the first book. Maddie is a great main character and is really coming into her own, more confident in her personal life as well as her investigating skills. The romance is moving along slowly and it is fun the way Big Red (The cat) is letting his feelings known. The mystery was interesting and we might have know who the killer was on first meeting him but it was how the friends were going to prove what was going on that holds your attention and keeps you listening. I can't wait for the next book to see how things progress.
With another late delivery of supplies for her bakery, Maddie is wondering if it is time to change loyalties. Then she hears about a man lurking around in his van out side the retirement home and asking questions about the local art gallery and she wonders if it can be the same man but if so what has man the quiet shy stranger start to act so strange? Coupled that with the some acts of vandalism like driving over the grass and Maddie feels she might have another mystery to solve. The she finds a dead body in a white van, could he be the man asking questions or is there another white van? Her friend Suzie mum owns the gallery and asks Maddie to make some special cookies for a new client and he gives Maddie the creeps. The local artist he seems so interested in lives in the retirement home and while selling cookies, for the young twins hoping to make enough money to buy bikes, Maddie is in the perfect place to find out more. Can she find the killer and if there is a connection between the gallery?
I liked the narrator. She has a pleasant voice that is easy to listen too.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
With another late delivery of supplies for her bakery, Maddie is wondering if it is time to change loyalties. Then she hears about a man lurking around in his van out side the retirement home and asking questions about the local art gallery and she wonders if it can be the same man but if so what has man the quiet shy stranger start to act so strange? Coupled that with the some acts of vandalism like driving over the grass and Maddie feels she might have another mystery to solve. The she finds a dead body in a white van, could he be the man asking questions or is there another white van? Her friend Suzie mum owns the gallery and asks Maddie to make some special cookies for a new client and he gives Maddie the creeps. The local artist he seems so interested in lives in the retirement home and while selling cookies, for the young twins hoping to make enough money to buy bikes, Maddie is in the perfect place to find out more. Can she find the killer and if there is a connection between the gallery?
I liked the narrator. She has a pleasant voice that is easy to listen too.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 27, 2019
This is a compelling mystery with fabulous characters. I love the recipes as well as Madaline. This book is well-written with plenty of twists to keep me guessing to the end. I am looking forward to the next book by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2018
🐈 Big Red's favorite🍪 baker once again up to her eyeballs in murderous intrigue!🔎
September 19, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
3.75 stars
This third book in the series was probably my least favorite so far. Yes, there is developing💕 romance in the air for several couples including heroine 🍣bakery owner Maddie and Ethan, the town👮 sheriff. And, of course, an unexpected and suspicious local death that Maddie used her astute observational abilities to help investigate. Author Cheryl Phipps has created a small community where everybody knows your name and one person's secret never stays that way! Every volume in the series seems to bring in new characters to populate Maggie's adventures as an amateur sleuth. Maybe that's part of my issue with this story -- too many characters and a plot that seems less focused. All the threads do seem to come together at the end, though, and Maddie embeds herself even deeper in the town's fabric. The romance is more pronounced in this book but still mild in heat, and humor is threaded throughout, particularly, in this story, in the antics of Maddie's 😾 Maine Coon cat, Big Red, and James and Jesse, Ethan's rambunctious 👬 twin nephews.
An added bonus -- some nifty baked goods recipes at the end:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 19, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
3.75 stars
This third book in the series was probably my least favorite so far. Yes, there is developing💕 romance in the air for several couples including heroine 🍣bakery owner Maddie and Ethan, the town👮 sheriff. And, of course, an unexpected and suspicious local death that Maddie used her astute observational abilities to help investigate. Author Cheryl Phipps has created a small community where everybody knows your name and one person's secret never stays that way! Every volume in the series seems to bring in new characters to populate Maggie's adventures as an amateur sleuth. Maybe that's part of my issue with this story -- too many characters and a plot that seems less focused. All the threads do seem to come together at the end, though, and Maddie embeds herself even deeper in the town's fabric. The romance is more pronounced in this book but still mild in heat, and humor is threaded throughout, particularly, in this story, in the antics of Maddie's 😾 Maine Coon cat, Big Red, and James and Jesse, Ethan's rambunctious 👬 twin nephews.
An added bonus -- some nifty baked goods recipes at the end:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 13, 2019
Something strange is happening in and around the community center. When it becomes apparent to baker Maddi Flynn that it somehow involves the gallery that best friend Suzy’s mom owns and runs, Maddie finds herself thrust into another murder mystery adventure. How does the gallery and the community center connect and why was deliveryman Owen murdered in his parked van?
Maddie can’t help but to get knee-deep into things while helping friend (and sheriff) Ethan’s nephews earn money for brand new bikes. Can she keep the boys and Gran safe? With the help of Gran, her girlfriends (the Girlz), and even trusty Maine Coon cat Big Red, Maddie uses her keen sleuthing skills to investigate.
This is a cozy mystery with a little romance. As Maddie does her sleuthing, she uncovers her true feelings for Ethan and they finally go on their first date. If you like a book with mystery, romance, madcap adventure, crazy/zany characters, and great story-telling, then you need to add this book to your collection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maddie can’t help but to get knee-deep into things while helping friend (and sheriff) Ethan’s nephews earn money for brand new bikes. Can she keep the boys and Gran safe? With the help of Gran, her girlfriends (the Girlz), and even trusty Maine Coon cat Big Red, Maddie uses her keen sleuthing skills to investigate.
This is a cozy mystery with a little romance. As Maddie does her sleuthing, she uncovers her true feelings for Ethan and they finally go on their first date. If you like a book with mystery, romance, madcap adventure, crazy/zany characters, and great story-telling, then you need to add this book to your collection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2018
Well poor Maddie is caught up in trouble again and once again it came to her door. When a delivery is late Maddie just assumes that Owen the driver is having truck troubles. But unbeknownst to her this is the start of trouble brewing. Maddie and Ethan have started to move forward in their relationship and Gran is encouraging Laura and Rob with their relationship/ friendship dance also. Big Red well he’s the jealous type and swipes or bites Ethan when he gets to close to Maddie. But this time murder and theft are involved as well as forgery and a well known recluse local artist. And of course Maddie finds herself taken again what is with these people. But like all good cozy mysteries this book doesn’t give you all the clues or the answers till nearly the end, and of coarse the bad guys are caught even if it was because of their own doing. I’ve fast become a fan of Ms Phipps work and now cant wait for the next new story.
September 12, 2019
While I've thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in the series, the third was somewhat of a disappointment. Don't get me wrong; there were a few aspects of the book that I truly liked especially the addition of more romance with our protagonist, Maddie. When an unusual murder occurs and unconditional occurrences happen around town, we find Maddie (once again) front and center regarding the investigation. I do love Maddie's best friends and her grandmother is true blue but there were far too many characters introduced and included in this story. It made following everyone more difficult and took away from the actual mystery. Even with my disappointment surrounding this book, I am looking forward to the next ones to come.
September 11, 2023
Now I have read the first three books in the Maple Lane Cozy mystery series. As I get to know the characters better, each book just seems to follow the previous one so smoothly. It's business as usual for Maddie at Maple Lane Bakery. She has agreed to let Sheriff Ethan Tanner's twin nephews--Jesse and James Dixon use her equipment to bake cookies. They came up with the idea of selling cookies to make money to buy new bikes. But something fishy is going on in Maple Falls and deliveryman Owen Kirk is found dead. Of course Maddie does what she can to help Ethan! "Their relationship was begging to be given a second chance like one of her recipes that hadn't quite made the grade on the first attempt." This series has already become a favorite of mine and I can't wait to read book 4.
March 31, 2021
**Cookies and Chaos:
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Fall set Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Maddie's systematic sleuthing, murder and the suspense of an art ring fill the pages of this cozy mystery filled with Maddie's expanding bakery business, her homey interactions with staff and good friends, her slowly blossoming romance with Sheriff Ethan as well as the well meaning matchmaking efforts of the residents of Maple Falls.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Fall set Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Maddie's systematic sleuthing, murder and the suspense of an art ring fill the pages of this cozy mystery filled with Maddie's expanding bakery business, her homey interactions with staff and good friends, her slowly blossoming romance with Sheriff Ethan as well as the well meaning matchmaking efforts of the residents of Maple Falls.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
September 19, 2018
Maddie & Ethan are such a cute couple. I love a good mystery and romance!!! There is more romance IMO in this book than the previous ones in this series. Luke, Beth, Gran and the Girlz are great side characters!!! Can't forget Ethan's sister and nephews. I'll have to say I was a little baffled by the mystery and who done it - I love to figure it out before the ending. A really cute, sweet read - can't wait for the next book!!!!
September 21, 2019
Maddie is on the case when a driver dies and his death and background are suspect. And what does the art gallery have to do with his death? Gran and the Girlz are on it! Even the twins, Jessie and James, end up helping with a clue.
I’m glad things seem to be moving forward in the love department. I really enjoyed this book. Getting ready to start on the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’m glad things seem to be moving forward in the love department. I really enjoyed this book. Getting ready to start on the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2018
Whoever said small towns were safe - and cozy - has never been to Maple Falls! Maddie is always finding bodies! Maddie, Gran, the Girlz, Big Red and the handsome sheriff are equal to any task - fundraising, murder solving, great treat baking, etc. Come along for another delightful visit to Maple Falls.
September 20, 2018
Another wonderful installment to the Maple Lane Bakery Series.
Maddie, Ethan, Big Red, Gran, and the Girlz are back for another mystery in their small town. It’s a fast paced story to keep you reading until the end. Also things are heating up between Maddie and Sheriff Tanner that you don’t want to miss!
Maddie, Ethan, Big Red, Gran, and the Girlz are back for another mystery in their small town. It’s a fast paced story to keep you reading until the end. Also things are heating up between Maddie and Sheriff Tanner that you don’t want to miss!
September 11, 2019
Maddie and her friends are again involved in a mystery. Along with Ethan, Gran, and even Big Red, they sift through the clues. Cookies and Chaos has a solid storyline, however, what makes this so enjoyable for me are the characters. I recommend the entire series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2019
A little mystery, a little, very little , romance. Fun quick read. Maddie, Ethan, Gran and the Girlz are great characters living in a lovely small town. Enjoyable series by author Phipps. Will definitely read more
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2023
I'm enjoying these Maple Lane mysteries. Good characters, and a combination of fun and danger. I like how the problems just fall in Maddie's lap, she doesn't go looking for them. I like the way Maddie uses common sense and lets Ethan know what's up, works with him, and isn't trying to go behind his back and deceive him. I like that Ethan gets exasperated with Maddie, but realizes it's her nature to help and doesn't get angry with her. An easy and entertaining story. Love all of the recipes and references to baking. Look forward to reading the next one!
December 2, 2018
YOU CAN’T STAY AWAY FROM WHAT FOLLOWS YOU
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Another mystery with Sheriff Ethan and Maddie. Mischief and murder along with recluses and the elderly. A read for those who love clean romance and mystery blended together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Another mystery with Sheriff Ethan and Maddie. Mischief and murder along with recluses and the elderly. A read for those who love clean romance and mystery blended together.
March 17, 2019
Great read
I love the characters, especially Maddie & Ethan - but also the Girlz, Gran, Luke & Rob, et al. The story is a terrific with a decent mystery - glad to see Maddie & Ethan’s relationship is progressing to the next level. Looking forward to the next edition.
I love the characters, especially Maddie & Ethan - but also the Girlz, Gran, Luke & Rob, et al. The story is a terrific with a decent mystery - glad to see Maddie & Ethan’s relationship is progressing to the next level. Looking forward to the next edition.
January 28, 2020
Fun read!!
The characters were true to life. It kept you wanting to finish it and was very enjoyable to read. Just enough romance and mayhem. Loved Big Red !!! Looking forward to reading the others in the series.
The characters were true to life. It kept you wanting to finish it and was very enjoyable to read. Just enough romance and mayhem. Loved Big Red !!! Looking forward to reading the others in the series.
June 25, 2020
Not as good as the previous books in the series. All of the women are making connections with men in this book. The plot took second place to the romance. If you want a true cozy mystery, then this book’s for you.
September 26, 2021
Maple Lane 3
This is an exciting story. It includes chaos, criminals, and craziness! It was definitely exciting when the Sheriff and the baker finally declared themselves in love. Just my style of story!
This is an exciting story. It includes chaos, criminals, and craziness! It was definitely exciting when the Sheriff and the baker finally declared themselves in love. Just my style of story!
January 22, 2023
are you like me ...do you tend to find one of the books in a series ...are more your favorite than the first book? love that book cover. so, eye appealing. love it!! i will read more. i enjoy these books. cozy mysteries.
April 10, 2023
lots of recipes in this book
These books get better and better. The Girlz have another mystery to solve. But Maddie is the one who gets roughed up….oh but she solves the murder. I hope there are many more
These books get better and better. The Girlz have another mystery to solve. But Maddie is the one who gets roughed up….oh but she solves the murder. I hope there are many more
May 27, 2023
Helping With Clues
Several friends are good at helping solve crimes. They get in a bit of trouble but it all works out. Plus a little romance adds to the storyline. Enjoyable mystery with good characters.
Several friends are good at helping solve crimes. They get in a bit of trouble but it all works out. Plus a little romance adds to the storyline. Enjoyable mystery with good characters.
June 1, 2023
Good comfy read
I really enjoyed this book. The family vibe and the sisterhood of friends, plus a mystery. A bit of a love story and of course the big cat. Small town mysteries are fun to read. Can you guess, who dun it?
I really enjoyed this book. The family vibe and the sisterhood of friends, plus a mystery. A bit of a love story and of course the big cat. Small town mysteries are fun to read. Can you guess, who dun it?
September 18, 2018
Maddie and Ethan once again try to find a murderer! But cookies and art keep getting in the way!
July 1, 2020
Enjoyed this Maple Lane Mystery
Enjoyed this Maple Lane Mystery. Maddie, Gran, the Girlz, and the handsome Sheriff are back with dozens of cookies and plenty of chaos :).
Enjoyed this Maple Lane Mystery. Maddie, Gran, the Girlz, and the handsome Sheriff are back with dozens of cookies and plenty of chaos :).
October 20, 2021
Another good one
I'm enjoying these Maple Lane mysteries. Good characters, and a combination of fun and danger. Gran might not be the lead character but she is an awesome person.
I'm enjoying these Maple Lane mysteries. Good characters, and a combination of fun and danger. Gran might not be the lead character but she is an awesome person.
September 5, 2022
I have truly enjoyed this series so far. The mysteries are intriguing and he characters are very believable. I enjoy their company and am almost ready for #4.
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