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Maddie Baker Mystery #2
Bake Off
Maddie Baker hasn’t seen Detective Noah Langley since he ghosted her a month ago, but now she needs his help to find a missing woman.
When Maddie Baker offers a self-defense course, a terrified young woman asks her for private lessons to escape a chokehold. Maddie readily agrees to meet Amy the next morning, but when she doesn’t show up, Maddie becomes concerned.
She enlists the help of Detective Noah Langley and his partner Lance Forrester. Since it’s not an official investigation, and the only thing they know about her is her first name, it’s not long before their hands are tied.
Besides, Noah has a dilemma of his own. A rash of home burglaries has taken a disturbing turn. Noah and his partner Lance feel pressed to catch the burglars before someone is physically assaulted…or worse.
To top things off, Maddie’s ex-boyfriend Steve is in town suddenly wanting her back. Her aunt’s dementia is worsening, and her best friend Mallory has shown up on her doorstep with news of her own.
Maddie’s got her hands full, so she should let her concern for the missing woman go, right? Only she’s trusting her gut, and it’s telling her something’s rotten in Cockamamie.
When Maddie Baker offers a self-defense course, a terrified young woman asks her for private lessons to escape a chokehold. Maddie readily agrees to meet Amy the next morning, but when she doesn’t show up, Maddie becomes concerned.
She enlists the help of Detective Noah Langley and his partner Lance Forrester. Since it’s not an official investigation, and the only thing they know about her is her first name, it’s not long before their hands are tied.
Besides, Noah has a dilemma of his own. A rash of home burglaries has taken a disturbing turn. Noah and his partner Lance feel pressed to catch the burglars before someone is physically assaulted…or worse.
To top things off, Maddie’s ex-boyfriend Steve is in town suddenly wanting her back. Her aunt’s dementia is worsening, and her best friend Mallory has shown up on her doorstep with news of her own.
Maddie’s got her hands full, so she should let her concern for the missing woman go, right? Only she’s trusting her gut, and it’s telling her something’s rotten in Cockamamie.
436 pages, ebook
First published September 20, 2022
517 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
January 18, 2025
Gone Without a Trace is book two in the Baddie Baker Mystery series by Denise Grover Swank. This book was previously called Bake Off but was retitled and received a new cover but none of the content was changed. It’s been quite some time since I read book one of this series but when I re-read my review, it all came right back to me. Although you aren’t required to have read it, it would definitely enhance your enjoyment of this book to get to know Maddie when she first moves to Cockamamie and her interactions with the hero of the story.
Maddie Baker is thirty four years old. She’s been in Cockamamie, Tennessee now for about a month. She gave up her job in the city to come to Cockamamie to care for her Aunt Deidra who is suffering from dementia. Maddie is working both part time as a barista and driving for Uber when she can. Her aunt is progressing much faster than she anticipated and Maddie is so worried that she won’t be able to care for her at home much longer.
A month ago, Maddie found herself right smack dab in the middle of a murder investigation as a person of interest. Now that the case is solved and she is in the clear, she’s ready for things to quiet down but that is not in the near future for her. Maddie is teaching a three night self defense class and after the first night, a scared woman approached her and asked if she could give her a private lesson. Maddie knows right away something is wrong and agrees to meet with her the next morning, only she never showed up. Now Maddie is worried that something might have happened to her and the only people she knows to go to for help is Detective Noah Langley and his partner, Lance. Only Noah is the last person she wants to see. A month ago, they both felt the strong connection between them but after the case was settled, Noah ghosted her. She hasn’t seen nor heard from him in a month.
Noah Langley is thirty seven years old. He moved to Cockamamie for the quieter lifestyle, less crime. But soon after arriving, he had a murder to solve and a very attractive suspect to deal with. Once Maddie wasn’t a suspect anymore, Noah knew he had to keep his distance. He was not a relationship kind of guy. He had his reasons and figured he was protecting Maddie. But now Maddie is back with a suspicious disappearance. It’s officially not in their jurisdiction but he looks into things unofficially. At the same time, there has been a string of robberies that he and Lance are investigating. The burglars are escalating which puts the pressure on he and Lance to find some answers quickly.
Not only is Maddie dealing with her aunt, the disappearance of the woman she met, and having to deal with Noah again, her ex, Steve has shown back up from Nashville claiming he wants her back in a somewhat creepy way. And, her best friend, Mallory shows up with suitcases in hand. Maddie’s life is off the rails but through it all, she can’t give up on trying to find the poor woman who asked her for help.
So there you have it! Noah and Maddie are once again forced to work together to solve their cases. The chemistry is still there stronger than ever but Noah is adamant that he is not the right guy for her and Maddie is through fighting him on it. As in the previous book, Maddie will not give up until she finds answers. She has the biggest heart. I also adore her friend Mallory. This is actually a pretty long book but it felt like I flew through it. I couldn’t put it down. The case is solved at the end so there is no cliff hanger. But the next book will allow us to see what is next for Maddie and Noah as well as deal with the cold case of the death of Maddie’s mother. I can’t wait to see what happens and if the case that has haunted Maddie all of her adult life will finally be solved. The book is entitled Echoes of Her.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Maddie Baker is thirty four years old. She’s been in Cockamamie, Tennessee now for about a month. She gave up her job in the city to come to Cockamamie to care for her Aunt Deidra who is suffering from dementia. Maddie is working both part time as a barista and driving for Uber when she can. Her aunt is progressing much faster than she anticipated and Maddie is so worried that she won’t be able to care for her at home much longer.
A month ago, Maddie found herself right smack dab in the middle of a murder investigation as a person of interest. Now that the case is solved and she is in the clear, she’s ready for things to quiet down but that is not in the near future for her. Maddie is teaching a three night self defense class and after the first night, a scared woman approached her and asked if she could give her a private lesson. Maddie knows right away something is wrong and agrees to meet with her the next morning, only she never showed up. Now Maddie is worried that something might have happened to her and the only people she knows to go to for help is Detective Noah Langley and his partner, Lance. Only Noah is the last person she wants to see. A month ago, they both felt the strong connection between them but after the case was settled, Noah ghosted her. She hasn’t seen nor heard from him in a month.
Noah Langley is thirty seven years old. He moved to Cockamamie for the quieter lifestyle, less crime. But soon after arriving, he had a murder to solve and a very attractive suspect to deal with. Once Maddie wasn’t a suspect anymore, Noah knew he had to keep his distance. He was not a relationship kind of guy. He had his reasons and figured he was protecting Maddie. But now Maddie is back with a suspicious disappearance. It’s officially not in their jurisdiction but he looks into things unofficially. At the same time, there has been a string of robberies that he and Lance are investigating. The burglars are escalating which puts the pressure on he and Lance to find some answers quickly.
Not only is Maddie dealing with her aunt, the disappearance of the woman she met, and having to deal with Noah again, her ex, Steve has shown back up from Nashville claiming he wants her back in a somewhat creepy way. And, her best friend, Mallory shows up with suitcases in hand. Maddie’s life is off the rails but through it all, she can’t give up on trying to find the poor woman who asked her for help.
So there you have it! Noah and Maddie are once again forced to work together to solve their cases. The chemistry is still there stronger than ever but Noah is adamant that he is not the right guy for her and Maddie is through fighting him on it. As in the previous book, Maddie will not give up until she finds answers. She has the biggest heart. I also adore her friend Mallory. This is actually a pretty long book but it felt like I flew through it. I couldn’t put it down. The case is solved at the end so there is no cliff hanger. But the next book will allow us to see what is next for Maddie and Noah as well as deal with the cold case of the death of Maddie’s mother. I can’t wait to see what happens and if the case that has haunted Maddie all of her adult life will finally be solved. The book is entitled Echoes of Her.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
October 14, 2022
I have not read the first book from those series, but I will make sure to fix this up when I have some time on my hands.
I enjoyed this story. It had a good amount of mystery, attraction and criminal investigation. We have a woman that gone missing, which makes Maddie to start asking around. From then on there is soo many events happening that will keep you on your toes.
Apparently from the events from the previous book Noah ghosted Maddie and he was willing to not let go of the attraction he feels towards her. She on the other side also feels a strong attraction and it is a bit more difficult to let go of her feelings. It doesn't help that in every moment they are both thinking about each other. To be honest they sircle around themselves through the entire book, but I am happy how the things turned out for them in the end. Which makes me want to read the next book straight away, but it will be a while until it comes out.
The criminal part of the book was really interesting and it did got my interest to see what will happen. Like I said, I am looking forward for the next book in the series.
***I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.***
I enjoyed this story. It had a good amount of mystery, attraction and criminal investigation. We have a woman that gone missing, which makes Maddie to start asking around. From then on there is soo many events happening that will keep you on your toes.
Apparently from the events from the previous book Noah ghosted Maddie and he was willing to not let go of the attraction he feels towards her. She on the other side also feels a strong attraction and it is a bit more difficult to let go of her feelings. It doesn't help that in every moment they are both thinking about each other. To be honest they sircle around themselves through the entire book, but I am happy how the things turned out for them in the end. Which makes me want to read the next book straight away, but it will be a while until it comes out.
The criminal part of the book was really interesting and it did got my interest to see what will happen. Like I said, I am looking forward for the next book in the series.
***I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.***
October 5, 2022
Bake Off completely drew me in like no other. The suspense, and mystery just leaves you wanting to discover more.
The plot twist was jaw dropping! I didn’t expect it and didn’t see it coming at all! It was so good! There were so many scenes that were hilarious and I enjoyed how it was spaced out evenly throughout the book. I really enjoyed the police procedure in Noah’s POV. Seeing the Easter eggs here and there from the authors other series is always fun to spot!!
I can’t wait to see what happens in Cockamamie next!
The plot twist was jaw dropping! I didn’t expect it and didn’t see it coming at all! It was so good! There were so many scenes that were hilarious and I enjoyed how it was spaced out evenly throughout the book. I really enjoyed the police procedure in Noah’s POV. Seeing the Easter eggs here and there from the authors other series is always fun to spot!!
I can’t wait to see what happens in Cockamamie next!
October 9, 2022
Holy Moses! Denise Grover Swank is incredibly talented. I've read all of her mysteries. This one is my new favorite. I absolutely loved this book. I was so suspicious of every new character that was introduced in this book. There were some twists and spins along the way to throw me off. And I loved every second of it. This is some top notch story telling. I love that Maddie and Noah are caring. Yet flawed. They do seem like they were meant for each other. The supporting cast is also amazing. And the mystery was phenomenal! I can't wait for more of this series.
October 10, 2022
Definitely a page turner. It was extremely hard for to put down my Paperwhite and go to work Yesterday. All I could think about is what is going to happen next to Maddie. Noah and Lance are amazing and I am looking forward to more of this series. The suspense is going to keep you guessing up to the very end. Cheers.
November 17, 2022
I really love the author's "Carly Moore" series, so I picked up this series. The first book, "Blind Bake," was terrific and this one is even better. Great, multi-layered characters with a puzzling mystery. I never saw that twist at the end. Can't wait for the next one!
October 8, 2022
After the events the previous months where Maddie unknowingly drove a man to his murder and then ended up in the killer’s crosshairs and kidnapped, she thought things were finally settling down and she planned to teach a self defense class. The first class went great until afterwards a lady came up asking Maddie about escaping a chokehold which raised Maddie’s internal red flag so when the lady didn’t arrive for the private lesson they set up she knew something was wrong. Maddie didn’t want to, for personal reasons, but knew she needed to reach out to Detective Noah Langley and ask if he could look into her concerns about the lady. Noah knew Maddie wouldn’t ask for anything from him, especially after how he left things, so he took Maddie seriously but what he didn’t expect was to uncover a connection to his current cases.
The tension between Maddie and Noah is so thick and heartbreaking. They both carry around so much hurt and pain that only they can relate to and understand. They both know they have things to work through and should steer clear of each other but they just keep finding their way back together. The pull between them is so strong and it just makes you want to hug them, tell them it will all be okay and that they are each other’s person.
This series is so good and I can’t wait to see where it goes next between Maddie and Noah. It has everything a reader wants from a good and engaging read- a little murder mystery, a dash of potential romance, a badass heroine who’s a little down on her luck and a handsome, yet struggling detective.
Thank you @valentine_pr_ and @denisegroverswank for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
The tension between Maddie and Noah is so thick and heartbreaking. They both carry around so much hurt and pain that only they can relate to and understand. They both know they have things to work through and should steer clear of each other but they just keep finding their way back together. The pull between them is so strong and it just makes you want to hug them, tell them it will all be okay and that they are each other’s person.
This series is so good and I can’t wait to see where it goes next between Maddie and Noah. It has everything a reader wants from a good and engaging read- a little murder mystery, a dash of potential romance, a badass heroine who’s a little down on her luck and a handsome, yet struggling detective.
Thank you @valentine_pr_ and @denisegroverswank for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
October 7, 2022
I really enjoy that this series is firstly action and mystery and secondly romance. I feel like so often good plots are ruined with too much romance thrown in your face. And it’s so realistic to see Maddie and Noah working through their issues while fighting attraction and trying to stay away but still caring.
As for the action, there is so much happening you would think it would be chaos to read but it’s not. The story flows beautifully and the main plot gets wrapped up nicely while still keeping us excited for the next book! It’s fun to watch as the various situations are weaved together for the finale. As always the characters, old and new, are fantastic! I love the addition of Mallory and her potential love match!!
I will say this book has some potentially triggering scenes. But I appreciate that this author doesn’t shy away from incorporating these very real situations.
As for the action, there is so much happening you would think it would be chaos to read but it’s not. The story flows beautifully and the main plot gets wrapped up nicely while still keeping us excited for the next book! It’s fun to watch as the various situations are weaved together for the finale. As always the characters, old and new, are fantastic! I love the addition of Mallory and her potential love match!!
I will say this book has some potentially triggering scenes. But I appreciate that this author doesn’t shy away from incorporating these very real situations.
October 8, 2022
Poor Noah and Maddie, it's so hard to get your head on straight when life has had free rein in messing you up. This is the second book in their complicated story. It's one of love, hate and crime. Maddie hasn't changed, she still doesn't know how to mind her own business. She's forever trying to save her world and the people in it. Then she needs saving... and she has several interested parties willing to save her.
You'll love Mallory. You'll understand Amy if you've ever been in her situation. You'll love to hate Steve. You'll feel sad for Aunt Deidre. And the whole time, you'll root for Noah and Maddie.
Police protocol is followed, mostly. 😁.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
You'll love Mallory. You'll understand Amy if you've ever been in her situation. You'll love to hate Steve. You'll feel sad for Aunt Deidre. And the whole time, you'll root for Noah and Maddie.
Police protocol is followed, mostly. 😁.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2022
I’m really enjoying Maddie’s series! Bake Off consists of another mystery Maddie has found herself in the middle of that gets her involved again with Noah and his partner Lance. Noah, who’s determined to leave Maddie alone, finds this increasingly difficult to do as his investigation seems to involve Maddie more and more. There’s a great twist in regards to the mystery that Denise wrote really well! As in book one, we get some humorous scenes that made me chuckle intertwined with the suspense of the mystery and Maddie coming into her own. I also just really adore all the secondary characters in Maddie’s world as well. Written in duel POVs, we get into both Maddie and Noah’s head and I’m always game for that! Can’t wait to get back into Cockamamie for book 3!
October 11, 2022
Denise Grover Swank writes complex and layered characters and Maddie Baker is her newest fierce heroine. This story starts out strong with an interaction between Maddie and a mysterious character. From there the storyline is propelled by Denise’s trademark witty dialogue and a series of twists and turns that left me guessing until the end.
Maddie’s story is filled with action, angst and romance and is everything I hope for when I read one of Denise’s stories. Readers are going to LOVE this book ❤️📖❤️
I already can’t wait for more from Maddie and the cast of characters in Cockamamie, Tennessee.
Maddie’s story is filled with action, angst and romance and is everything I hope for when I read one of Denise’s stories. Readers are going to LOVE this book ❤️📖❤️
I already can’t wait for more from Maddie and the cast of characters in Cockamamie, Tennessee.
October 11, 2022
Wow! That’s all I can think after finishing this book.
The mystery and suspense kept me turning pages. I didn’t want to stop for real life ;) The humor kept me entertained. The wonderful characters just made me want more and more of Cockamamie, Tennessee and I can’t wait to visit again!
-5 Stars-
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The mystery and suspense kept me turning pages. I didn’t want to stop for real life ;) The humor kept me entertained. The wonderful characters just made me want more and more of Cockamamie, Tennessee and I can’t wait to visit again!
-5 Stars-
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 10, 2022
I loved Maddie Baker from the first chapter of the first book in this series, Blind Bake.
She is compassionate, kind and in a stage of redefining herself after a five year relationship that ended when she moved back home to the small town of Cockamamie to care for her aunt who suffers from dementia. Her aunt and uncle took her in as her mother was murdered when she was a teen so there is a strong family connection.
Maddie accidentaly got involved in a crime investigation soon after moving back and met detective Noah Langely, a man who is trying to get his life back on track after a life altering tragedy some months back.
Maddie and Noah are instantly attracted to each other but there are so many reasons keeping them from acting on the attraction.
I love the way DGS writes her characters, they are always multi dimensional persons.
The story is told in both Maddie’s and Noah’s POV which gives a clearer picture of different events as well as even more depht to the characters.
I reread the first book right before reading this and I’m glad I did. You definitely need the backstory to get the bigger picture, and I had the story of their interactions fresh going into this book.
I have read most of what DGS has written and I know that she is a master storyteller. She writes romance and relationships well, but she can also write suspense and mystery in a way that has me hooked and nervous until the end.
Another thing I like is that the story gets to take it’s time. It’s filled with details and conversations, still the story is fast paced and never gets dull.
For my part I can’t wait to read more about Maddie Baker, this book was an excellent sequel and I hope there will be more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
She is compassionate, kind and in a stage of redefining herself after a five year relationship that ended when she moved back home to the small town of Cockamamie to care for her aunt who suffers from dementia. Her aunt and uncle took her in as her mother was murdered when she was a teen so there is a strong family connection.
Maddie accidentaly got involved in a crime investigation soon after moving back and met detective Noah Langely, a man who is trying to get his life back on track after a life altering tragedy some months back.
Maddie and Noah are instantly attracted to each other but there are so many reasons keeping them from acting on the attraction.
I love the way DGS writes her characters, they are always multi dimensional persons.
The story is told in both Maddie’s and Noah’s POV which gives a clearer picture of different events as well as even more depht to the characters.
I reread the first book right before reading this and I’m glad I did. You definitely need the backstory to get the bigger picture, and I had the story of their interactions fresh going into this book.
I have read most of what DGS has written and I know that she is a master storyteller. She writes romance and relationships well, but she can also write suspense and mystery in a way that has me hooked and nervous until the end.
Another thing I like is that the story gets to take it’s time. It’s filled with details and conversations, still the story is fast paced and never gets dull.
For my part I can’t wait to read more about Maddie Baker, this book was an excellent sequel and I hope there will be more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2022
Bake Off, book 2 of the Maddie Baker Mystery series, is another amazing work by Denise Grover Swank. The story is intriguing and suspenseful with a touch of romance.
When Maddie offers a free self defense class, she finds herself emotionally invested in a young woman’s (Amy) domestic problems when Amy asks how to get out of a choke hold. Amy misses a scheduled appointment which leads Maddie to search for Amy who appears to have disappeared.
Dealing with her aunt’s dementia, Maddie is working two part time jobs. While driving her car an accident inadvertently involves Maddie in a criminal investigation.
Christmas is not too far away and Maddie wants to make this a Christmas her aunt will enjoy.
To make matters worse, her ex boyfriend Steve shows up wanting to rekindle their romance And he doesn’t take no for an answer.
Denise’s characters are skillfully developed and brought to life with real problems. The reader is allowed to experience their indecision, fear and emotional pain.
Once again, Denise has proven her writing talent in Bake Off. A must read thriller!.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
When Maddie offers a free self defense class, she finds herself emotionally invested in a young woman’s (Amy) domestic problems when Amy asks how to get out of a choke hold. Amy misses a scheduled appointment which leads Maddie to search for Amy who appears to have disappeared.
Dealing with her aunt’s dementia, Maddie is working two part time jobs. While driving her car an accident inadvertently involves Maddie in a criminal investigation.
Christmas is not too far away and Maddie wants to make this a Christmas her aunt will enjoy.
To make matters worse, her ex boyfriend Steve shows up wanting to rekindle their romance And he doesn’t take no for an answer.
Denise’s characters are skillfully developed and brought to life with real problems. The reader is allowed to experience their indecision, fear and emotional pain.
Once again, Denise has proven her writing talent in Bake Off. A must read thriller!.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2022
I am going to need a "What would Maddie Baker do?" bracelet. I think it is a valid question with all the stuff she has to figure out. I love that she has grown while living with her aunt. It seems she needed something she couldn't get with Steve.
Maddie finds herself in another mystery. She seems to always draw bad luck to her. Her aunt is not getting any better and the hot maybe, could be a boyfriend has commitment issues. But while Maddie is looking for clues to her missing person case, we have another hot cop ready to take up where Noah doesn't want to. I am also happy to report we have a visit from the best friend of all time Mallery!! She is a great Friend I enjoy her support throughout the whole book. I am not going to give much thought to Steve. He is a delusional stalker. although he did add a good plot twist to the book. He also had me wanting to shack my book and say bad words on a few occasions.
This was a awesome book. I got a whole different story then the one I thought I was going to get. Loved seeing Noah's POV everyone in a while. It was a good way to flip back and forth between the mystery of the book and see what both sides of the story were doing. I am so happy with the way this whole story played out. It was fun and exciting. The characters are going to become you best friends or worse enemy depending on who it is. They all work together to make this book eve4rything you are looking for.
Maddie finds herself in another mystery. She seems to always draw bad luck to her. Her aunt is not getting any better and the hot maybe, could be a boyfriend has commitment issues. But while Maddie is looking for clues to her missing person case, we have another hot cop ready to take up where Noah doesn't want to. I am also happy to report we have a visit from the best friend of all time Mallery!! She is a great Friend I enjoy her support throughout the whole book. I am not going to give much thought to Steve. He is a delusional stalker. although he did add a good plot twist to the book. He also had me wanting to shack my book and say bad words on a few occasions.
This was a awesome book. I got a whole different story then the one I thought I was going to get. Loved seeing Noah's POV everyone in a while. It was a good way to flip back and forth between the mystery of the book and see what both sides of the story were doing. I am so happy with the way this whole story played out. It was fun and exciting. The characters are going to become you best friends or worse enemy depending on who it is. They all work together to make this book eve4rything you are looking for.
April 19, 2024
Of all three books, I'd say this was my least favorite, but mostly because it didn't add anything to the overall series.
This book can be divided in two parts: the romance between Maddie and Noah, and the actual mystery. I found the romantic part mostly annoying... I get it, they want each other but they're both distancing from one another because none of them thinks it will work, and Maddie is hurt because Noah ghosted her, and Noah's trauma makes him not think he's good enough/deserving of Maddie. I get it, and at first it makes sense and this tension and hesitation between them is captivating, but after reading it chapter after chapter after chapters, from book one to this one, it's just obnoxious. That and the fact that every woman who meets Noah flirts with him, and every man who meets Maddie flirts with her. I get it, they're both perfect, let's move on... again, if this happened once or twice it would've been fine, but it happening constantly is just tiring.
Now the mystery itself... it was quite messy. Basically you have a bunch of robberies following a specific pattenr, but then they add a new twist which changes the original MO. While that's happening, a woman also vanishes, creating another plot/mystery to be solved. I won't go into detail about what happens, as it would be spoilers, but I'll just say that, to me, the development of both cases didn't make sense, was too messy, and could've been so much better done.
However, and because I do enjoy the author and found the series interesting, I'd still very much recommend this.
This book can be divided in two parts: the romance between Maddie and Noah, and the actual mystery. I found the romantic part mostly annoying... I get it, they want each other but they're both distancing from one another because none of them thinks it will work, and Maddie is hurt because Noah ghosted her, and Noah's trauma makes him not think he's good enough/deserving of Maddie. I get it, and at first it makes sense and this tension and hesitation between them is captivating, but after reading it chapter after chapter after chapters, from book one to this one, it's just obnoxious. That and the fact that every woman who meets Noah flirts with him, and every man who meets Maddie flirts with her. I get it, they're both perfect, let's move on... again, if this happened once or twice it would've been fine, but it happening constantly is just tiring.
Now the mystery itself... it was quite messy. Basically you have a bunch of robberies following a specific pattenr, but then they add a new twist which changes the original MO. While that's happening, a woman also vanishes, creating another plot/mystery to be solved. I won't go into detail about what happens, as it would be spoilers, but I'll just say that, to me, the development of both cases didn't make sense, was too messy, and could've been so much better done.
However, and because I do enjoy the author and found the series interesting, I'd still very much recommend this.
September 5, 2023
It's 2am and I finished the book a bit ago and am just sitting here in a major book hangover. This book exceeded my expectations. I absolutely loved it!! It's hilarious, suspenseful, emotional and had a twist I never suspected. All the secondary characters are wonderful and well-developed. And I LOVE getting the dual POV’s.
As always, Denise draws you into the story, making you feel like you are right there experiencing it. It’s unputdownable! I had to know what was going to happen. I can’t wait for more adventures with my favorite Cockamamie residents! Don’t miss out! Pick up this book and the first one of the series, Blind Bake (if you haven’t already read it).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
As always, Denise draws you into the story, making you feel like you are right there experiencing it. It’s unputdownable! I had to know what was going to happen. I can’t wait for more adventures with my favorite Cockamamie residents! Don’t miss out! Pick up this book and the first one of the series, Blind Bake (if you haven’t already read it).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2023
Not as good as the first book. but I still liked it.
October 10, 2022
The second book in the Maddie Baker series has the kind of mystery and romance you love of a Denise Grover Swank book.
This story picks up about a month after the last excitement in Cockamamie, Tenneessee. Maddie is getting a routine into her life with moving back in with Aunt Deidre, who has Alzheimer’s. So juggling it all, Maddie is trying to work at Deja Brew, as well as Ubering to try to make ends meet. She has many people in her corner to help, from the neighbor Margarete, to her best friend Mallory, to Officer Lance Forrester & even Detective Noah Langley.
While Noah had distanced himself once Maddie was out of harms way, neither Noah nor Maddie were over each other. They still had the intense chemistry but want different futures - thus causing some heartache that Lance was not willing to just let sit for Noah’s side of things.
Maddie is a natural helper. She wants what’s best for everyone and is willing to do what she can - which includes trying to help out an attendee from her self defense class. So as Maddie digs deeper to try to find out why Amy has gone missing, since she has no one in her corner, Maddie finds herself in deep. Man oh man - stuff gets real!
I love that Maddie lets the officials do their job. She calls them with info she inadvertently finds and doesn’t try to impede investigations. It’s a breath of fresh air. I also love that they take her seriously.
If you’re looking for a good mystery, this one is full of that plus some angst, action, and a bit of romance. I can’t wait to read where Maddie goes next!
This story picks up about a month after the last excitement in Cockamamie, Tenneessee. Maddie is getting a routine into her life with moving back in with Aunt Deidre, who has Alzheimer’s. So juggling it all, Maddie is trying to work at Deja Brew, as well as Ubering to try to make ends meet. She has many people in her corner to help, from the neighbor Margarete, to her best friend Mallory, to Officer Lance Forrester & even Detective Noah Langley.
While Noah had distanced himself once Maddie was out of harms way, neither Noah nor Maddie were over each other. They still had the intense chemistry but want different futures - thus causing some heartache that Lance was not willing to just let sit for Noah’s side of things.
Maddie is a natural helper. She wants what’s best for everyone and is willing to do what she can - which includes trying to help out an attendee from her self defense class. So as Maddie digs deeper to try to find out why Amy has gone missing, since she has no one in her corner, Maddie finds herself in deep. Man oh man - stuff gets real!
I love that Maddie lets the officials do their job. She calls them with info she inadvertently finds and doesn’t try to impede investigations. It’s a breath of fresh air. I also love that they take her seriously.
If you’re looking for a good mystery, this one is full of that plus some angst, action, and a bit of romance. I can’t wait to read where Maddie goes next!
October 13, 2022
New series fav? Possibly!
Denise has done it again - I freaking ADORED this book and characters. Maddie is such a good heroine! I'm really glad Mallory is her friend and I hope we get more scenes with them!!!
This book was funny, sweet, twisty, and suspenseful! I did see one thing coming, but not all the details surrounding the event so I was still surprised. This was an absolute page turner - I started and finished within 24 hours. I was completely taken by the story and wanted to see what was going to happen with Maddie. There's a lot going on in these pages, but it's all perfectly woven together and written.
Also - Noah. *swoon* I adore him. Please Denise, don't kill him off or give him heartbreak. Lol Lance is also an A+ character and I loved his storyline for this book.
I truly cannot wait to see where this series goes and revisit Maddie's world.
*Thank you to the author and publisher for my eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book is out NOW. Y'all grab it! I'm not just saying that. I happily paid for book #1 and I will buy a copy of this for my collection too!*
Denise has done it again - I freaking ADORED this book and characters. Maddie is such a good heroine! I'm really glad Mallory is her friend and I hope we get more scenes with them!!!
This book was funny, sweet, twisty, and suspenseful! I did see one thing coming, but not all the details surrounding the event so I was still surprised. This was an absolute page turner - I started and finished within 24 hours. I was completely taken by the story and wanted to see what was going to happen with Maddie. There's a lot going on in these pages, but it's all perfectly woven together and written.
Also - Noah. *swoon* I adore him. Please Denise, don't kill him off or give him heartbreak. Lol Lance is also an A+ character and I loved his storyline for this book.
I truly cannot wait to see where this series goes and revisit Maddie's world.
*Thank you to the author and publisher for my eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book is out NOW. Y'all grab it! I'm not just saying that. I happily paid for book #1 and I will buy a copy of this for my collection too!*
October 10, 2022
Bake off is a cute read. Maddie is back and seems that trouble has found her yet again. She is trying to do what she can to teach women self-defense. I love Maddie's big heart. You feel for her as she faces tracking down Amy, her aunt getting worse and her ex that just does not get clue. Noah is still fighting his feelings for Maddie. The chemistry is still ever present as Noah tries his best to keep Maddie out of trouble. I love Lance in this one so much. He pulls off being Noah's friend and partner and helping Maddie out so well. He sees her more than a delicate woman but one that can take care of herself. This one will have you glued to the pages and giggling a few times as Noah, Lance and Maddie work on solving the case of what happened to Amy and who is behind the break ins. I could not get enough of this one and loved every moment. I cannot wait for more Maddie Baker Mystery to come.
March 25, 2023
Have you ever had an author, that you just love everything they've written? That's how I am with Denise Grover Swank. In this second novel of the series, we see Maddie Baker back with the same cast of characters as last time and some new characters as well. We don't get any closer to finding answers about her mother's murder in this one. There are some other disturbing crimes that take place in this story and somehow they come back to involve Maddie. Our favorite detective Noah is back and just maybe he'll decide to give into his feelings for Maddie. Maddie's ex boyfriend Steve is more involved in this book and we learn more about him. Maddie has her Aunt Deidre, and her best friend Mallory is by her side when things start going haywire. I love the characters, the plot and the ending. Another amazing book by Denise.
October 17, 2022
Holy moly! I literally start every single one of Denise's reviews this way but - is there anything this lady can't do?! Bake Off was the perfect follow up to Blind Bake. It has a great opening line and just continues to grow from there. Denise (I like to think we're on a first name basis by this point) has such a great way of being able to write books that work so well either as stand alones or in a series, as romance or as mystery. Her books have everything. This was a definitely page turner and I just fell more in love with Maddie as I went. If you liked her Rose books, NK books, Darling Investigations, Summer Butler, etc. then I'm sure you'll love Bake Off! Also, the cover art is amazing!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2022
Bake Off by D.G. Swank is the second book in the Maddie Baker Mystery. The previous book is Blind Bake and tells the beginning of Maddie and Noah's story.
BO could be read as stand-alone, for best reading experience I recommend to read the books in order.
I believe everyone knows these books that are like coming home after reading just the first few pages. And this is BO for me. I connected immediatedly with the characters, fell in insta-love with the story and I just know this book will be on my re-read list for sure.
Maddie who works hard to make ends meet, is the caregiver for her ailing aunt, and to top it off, her non-relationship with Detective Noah isn't in a great place too. Add the case of a missing woman and Maddie has her hands full.
A delightful read, with wonderful characters and a gorgeous storyline, I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
BO could be read as stand-alone, for best reading experience I recommend to read the books in order.
I believe everyone knows these books that are like coming home after reading just the first few pages. And this is BO for me. I connected immediatedly with the characters, fell in insta-love with the story and I just know this book will be on my re-read list for sure.
Maddie who works hard to make ends meet, is the caregiver for her ailing aunt, and to top it off, her non-relationship with Detective Noah isn't in a great place too. Add the case of a missing woman and Maddie has her hands full.
A delightful read, with wonderful characters and a gorgeous storyline, I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
May 1, 2023
Just as good as book one
Noah and Maddie are back in another adventure.. This one really keeps you on your toes. Well plotted and nail biting antics. I did not see that coming when the killer was revealed. Mind blown. It's so good!
Noah and Maddie are back in another adventure.. This one really keeps you on your toes. Well plotted and nail biting antics. I did not see that coming when the killer was revealed. Mind blown. It's so good!
August 15, 2023
Okay again i really enjoyed this book! I like the characters a lot and that they give a lot of information on who could be the murderer. They definitely do a big wrap up at the end but i kinda love that lol i think it’s fun. I can’t wait for the third one to come out!
December 13, 2023
Second book is just as good as the first but with a happy ending! I am curious about what book three holds and the future of the main characters relationship.
March 11, 2024
Enjoying the characters in this series so much! Good mystery. Great narration with two people.
February 26, 2024
4.5 stars: Even better than the first one! I did figure some of it out (or at least had my suspicions) but it was still a fun ride.
November 14, 2022
I was so excited to get my copy of Bake Off, and was happy to be plunged back into Maddie Baker's life for a couple of days as I read. In the 2nd book of the series, we pick up with Maddie shortly after the events of Book 1. She's dealing with some big things, but managing, with the help of her new friends in Cockamamie, TN. When a troubled young woman who needs very specific instruction shows up at Maddie's self-defense class- and then abruptly disappears, Maddie can't help but look for her. So begins our mystery.
I loved we got a clearer picture of Maddie's big heart in this book, as well as some of the wounds that have left her feeling vulnerable. She is still wrestling with the unanswered questions surrounding her mom's murder when she was a teen, working through her complicated feelings for Detective Noah Langley, and, surprise, her ex shows up with an out-of-the-blue proposal.
This was a well paced and twisty mystery that left me definitely eager for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
I loved we got a clearer picture of Maddie's big heart in this book, as well as some of the wounds that have left her feeling vulnerable. She is still wrestling with the unanswered questions surrounding her mom's murder when she was a teen, working through her complicated feelings for Detective Noah Langley, and, surprise, her ex shows up with an out-of-the-blue proposal.
This was a well paced and twisty mystery that left me definitely eager for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
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