Sugar and Sliced — C.A. Phipps

A Manhattan Bakery. A Deadly Competition. A Murder That's Too Close for Comfort!When a body literally drops at her feet, baker Maddie Flynn knows this case is more than just a tragic accident. With her sharp intuition—and a few secret skills up her sleeve—she's determined to uncover the truth.But not everyone wants her digging around. With a mysterious kidnapping, a furious baking contestant, and a crime that just doesn't add up, Maddie is running out of time. Even Big Red, her massive Maine Coon with an uncanny sense for danger, is on edge.With suspects lurking in the shadows and a killer who won't hesitate to strike again, Maddie must solve the murder fast—or risk becoming the next victim.If you love Murder, She Wrote and The Great British Bake Off—with a side of feline attitude—The Maple Lane Mysteries are the perfect recipe for you!A quirky, cat-loving sleuth. A cozy bakery. A mystery to unravel. Plus, a delicious recipe in every book!5* This story was a quick, easy read with a good pace, crime with a taciturn police detective trying to hold Maddie in check, and a baking competition that turns triumph to terror! Big Red, Maddie's Maine Coon cat companion, is a mighty protector prowling the streets of NYC and a key player. I love a cozy with a sassy pet. Other books in The Maple Lane MysteriesSugar and Sliced - The Maple Lane PrequelBook 1 Apple Pie and ArsenicBook 2 Bagels and BlackmailBook 3 Cookies and ChaosBook 4 Doughnuts and DisasterBook 5 Eclairs and ExtortionBook 6 Fudge and Frenemies Book 7 Gingerbread and Gunshots Book 8 Honey Cake and Homicide 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 enjoys family times, baking, rambling walks, and her quest for the perfect latte.