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Baker Street Mystery #3
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death
In this feisty new culinary cozy mystery from Agatha and Edgar Award-nominated author Valerie Burns, social media influencer Maddy Montgomery is adjusting to her new life after moving to small-town Michigan to run a bakery and take care of a gigantic English mastiff—all while solving the murder of a one-time nemesis...
Thanks to Maddy’s social media savvy, Baby Cakes Bakery is becoming a huge success—so much so that she’s attracted the attention of her former nemesis, the fiancé-stealing Brandy Denton. When Brandy blows into New Bison like an ill wind and disrupts a vlog Maddy’s filming, their argument goes viral. After Brandy’s body is found at Baby Cakes, Maddy instantly goes from viral sensation to murder suspect.
As Maddy is still reeling from the murder, a stranger shows up in the bakery claiming to have been a friend of Octavia. He believes Maddy is in danger. When a second body washes up on the lake shore, it seems clear someone’s out to kill to keep a secret—and it may have to do with her great aunt.
Maddy rallies her aunt’s friends, the Baker Street Irregulars; Sheriff April Johnson; and her veterinarian boyfriend Michael—not to mention her English mastiff Baby—to do some digging and root out whoever’s behind the killings . . .
Thanks to Maddy’s social media savvy, Baby Cakes Bakery is becoming a huge success—so much so that she’s attracted the attention of her former nemesis, the fiancé-stealing Brandy Denton. When Brandy blows into New Bison like an ill wind and disrupts a vlog Maddy’s filming, their argument goes viral. After Brandy’s body is found at Baby Cakes, Maddy instantly goes from viral sensation to murder suspect.
As Maddy is still reeling from the murder, a stranger shows up in the bakery claiming to have been a friend of Octavia. He believes Maddy is in danger. When a second body washes up on the lake shore, it seems clear someone’s out to kill to keep a secret—and it may have to do with her great aunt.
Maddy rallies her aunt’s friends, the Baker Street Irregulars; Sheriff April Johnson; and her veterinarian boyfriend Michael—not to mention her English mastiff Baby—to do some digging and root out whoever’s behind the killings . . .
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2024
144 people are currently reading
4980 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Burns
7 books549 followersValerie also writes as V.M. Burns
Valerie (V.M.) Burns was born in Northwestern Indiana and spent many years in
Southwestern Michigan on the Lake Michigan shoreline. She is a lover of dogs,
British historic cozies, and scones with clotted cream. After many years in the
Midwest she went in search of milder winters and currently lives in Northern Georgia with her poodles. Her debut novel, The Plot is Murder was nominated for a 2017 Agatha Award for Best First Novel. Her short story, "The Vermeer Conspiracy" was an Anthony and Edgar Award finalist in 2022. Valerie is a member of Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Crime Writers Association, Crime Writers of Color, and Sisters in Crime. Readers can learn more by visiting her website at vmburns.com.
Valerie (V.M.) Burns was born in Northwestern Indiana and spent many years in
Southwestern Michigan on the Lake Michigan shoreline. She is a lover of dogs,
British historic cozies, and scones with clotted cream. After many years in the
Midwest she went in search of milder winters and currently lives in Northern Georgia with her poodles. Her debut novel, The Plot is Murder was nominated for a 2017 Agatha Award for Best First Novel. Her short story, "The Vermeer Conspiracy" was an Anthony and Edgar Award finalist in 2022. Valerie is a member of Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Crime Writers Association, Crime Writers of Color, and Sisters in Crime. Readers can learn more by visiting her website at vmburns.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 352 reviews
April 24, 2024
Maddy and her large canine friend Baby are back to solve another mystery. When Maddy sees her old nemesis, Brandy, the woman who stole her fiancé and humiliated her, she wonders what this woman is doing in Michigan . Brandy is her usual nasty self, but not for long. Maddy's friends, including veterinarian boyfriend Michael and her father, The Admiral, are there to support her and to help find the murderer when Trooper Bob considers her a suspect. Someone who knew Great Aunt Octavia, original owner of Baby Cakes bakery, ostensibly has a package to give Maddie from her late great aunt. Will she ever get it, and what could it contain? Likable characters in a friendly small town, a loyal and entertaining dog, and a good mystery make this series a cut above other cozy mysteries I've read. Recipes are included. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
June 19, 2024
I have really come to love this series so much. Maddie, who started out as such a fish out of water, is so finding her place and herself. Besides the wonderful cast of characters and the very interesting mysteries, the thing I love the most about this series is the sense of humor and laughter that flows throughout. People who can laugh at themselves are good people. In this lastest story, Maddie has her hands full when the woman who broke up her wedding, literally at the alter, shows up in New Bison. Needless to say, these are not happy circumstances. To add to the drama, Maddie feels like she is being stalked by a blue-eyed man she can never catch up with. When Brandy Denton is found murdered in Baby Cakes, all heck breaks lose. As the main suspect, Maddie's life is total chaos. Is her business attorney the best person to represent her? What does this mean for Baby Cakes? What is her ex-fiance doing in town with yet another woman? How are Michael and the Admiral going to handle all of this? What follows is an interesting, long played mystery, with many misunderstandings, zany situations, and all the Baker Street Irregulars working together to figure everything out. It's such a satisfying read on so many levels! Bravo Ms Burns! Thanks to #NetGalley, #Kensingtonbooks, and the author for a chance to check in with our friends in New Bison. #ACupofFlour,APinchofDeath, #ValerieBurns, #bookideas, #retiredreader, #bookreview
August 11, 2024
I received A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death in a Goodreads Giveaway. Thank you to the author and publisher; it’s much appreciated.
What a fun cozy mystery! This is the third in the series but I have not read the other two yet but this can be read as a standalone. I really love hapless Maddy and her wacky friends. As much as I love dogs, I do think Baby the sidekick was a little generic. I had a lot of enjoyment figuring this mystery out and it was a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.
What a fun cozy mystery! This is the third in the series but I have not read the other two yet but this can be read as a standalone. I really love hapless Maddy and her wacky friends. As much as I love dogs, I do think Baby the sidekick was a little generic. I had a lot of enjoyment figuring this mystery out and it was a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.
October 7, 2024
Sloppy story, sloppy characterization, and even sloppy editing! (There's a part early on where Candy starts being called April a couple of times for a few pages -- I frantically flipped back to try to figure out when April showed up before I realized the error!) I'm glad they finally wrapped up who killed Great-Aunt Octavia, but yeesh it was messy and the murderer was suddenly shockingly obvious and was practically doing evil mustache twirling the entire story.
Important conversations are skipped like Maddy and Michael's first real fight (and then they ). Baby's characterization becomes more like a mute human than a dog. There's practically nothing with the bakery. And there's a weird thing where everyone acts like Michael's ex girlfriend is a monster for daring to suggest that Hannah, who is suffering from dementia and whose primary caregiver has crazy and irregular work hours, should maybe be put in a nursing home or assisted living type situation.
I want to support this series cause it started out kind of cute and it's set in my home state, but this entry is making it hard.
Important conversations are skipped like Maddy and Michael's first real fight (and then they ). Baby's characterization becomes more like a mute human than a dog. There's practically nothing with the bakery. And there's a weird thing where everyone acts like Michael's ex girlfriend is a monster for daring to suggest that Hannah, who is suffering from dementia and whose primary caregiver has crazy and irregular work hours, should maybe be put in a nursing home or assisted living type situation.
I want to support this series cause it started out kind of cute and it's set in my home state, but this entry is making it hard.
September 23, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, & Valerie Burns for the eARC.
Not another dead body in the bakery!! Lawd lol. I have thoroughly enjoyed this cute cozy page turning murder mystery read/series. If you are reading this review for Book 3 you more than likely have read the other 2. If you haven’t read the other books. Stop. Go read the other 2 books. Lol anyways This gave me answers and confirmed my suspicions!
I just needed Maddy to work on communication but I get being insecure after relationship trauma. Highly recommend reading it.
Not another dead body in the bakery!! Lawd lol. I have thoroughly enjoyed this cute cozy page turning murder mystery read/series. If you are reading this review for Book 3 you more than likely have read the other 2. If you haven’t read the other books. Stop. Go read the other 2 books. Lol anyways This gave me answers and confirmed my suspicions!
I just needed Maddy to work on communication but I get being insecure after relationship trauma. Highly recommend reading it.
June 10, 2025
Everything about this book was ridiculous and predictable. I think if my mood had been different, I wouldn't have tolerated this book - but since it's been a really stressful week with work, the overall stupidity was actually a great form of escape!
July 27, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Baby Cakes Bakery which Maddy Montgomery inherited from her great aunt Octavia is becoming a rousing success thanks to social media. It has also caught the attention of the woman who stole Maddy's fiancé, Brandy Denton. When Brandy goes too far, interrupting a Vlog filming Maddy can't hold her temper. The argument is filmed and posted all over the internet. Which isn't good for her reputation or the bakery, but when Brandy is later found dead in the bakery's freezer things go from bad to worse. That argument lands Maddy at the top of the suspect list.
As if she doesn't have enough on her plate, a stranger asserts he is Octavia's friend and tells her she is in danger. Then a body is found washed up on the lakeshore. With two bodies she thinks the man could be right.
Are the deaths related to her aunt's? Or has Maddy stirred up some other trouble? It's all hands on deck as Maddy, her veterinarian boyfriend Michael, Sheriff April Johnson, the Baker Street Irregulars, and even her English mastiff Baby pitch in to put the pinch on the killer.
____
When I open a book by Ms. Burns I know I am in for a treat. The first chapter had me giggling and as expected the humor popped up in all the right places throughout the story.
Maddy is surrounded by all the characters we have come to love since this series started. Trooper Bob returns and Maddy's father the Admiral arrives on the scene. The Admiral was a great addition. His love for his daughter shined in this story. Maddy has truly found her place in New Bison. Her baking is a work in progress, but she is making progress. I enjoy how everyone in her life comes together to always help her in any way they can. Whether helping with the bakery or tracking down a murderer, they give their all.
Trooper Bob, when asked to protect Maddie - "Are you joking? Her father's a naval admiral, she's dating an ex-Army commando, lives with the town sheriff, and walks around town with a two-hundred-fifty-pound horse who recently ate his way through an SUV when he thought she was in danger. Who in their right mind would come close to her? She got more protection than the freakin' governor."
The mysteries in this book are complex because a thread that started in Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder, continued in Murder is a Piece of Cake is wrapped up by the end of this story. People from Maddy's LA past have curiously shown up in New Bison and she appears to have a stalker, and then two of them are dead. Ms. Burns twisted things together in unexpected ways that tested her characters. A new friend proved to be very valuable. As did the lovable Baby. The truth was soon revealed and the takedown was epic! Part familiar from another source was executed perfectly.
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death is a fabulously fun read. It's filled with delightful characters, zany misunderstandings, crazy situations, mysteries with teeth, and an ending that touches the heart. The ending feels like the end of the series which makes me sad. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters. I hope the author proves me wrong and there is another visit to New Bison, Michigan in our future.
#5starread #recipes #perfectescape #murder #cozymystery #babycakes #englishmastiff #somuchfun
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Baby Cakes Bakery which Maddy Montgomery inherited from her great aunt Octavia is becoming a rousing success thanks to social media. It has also caught the attention of the woman who stole Maddy's fiancé, Brandy Denton. When Brandy goes too far, interrupting a Vlog filming Maddy can't hold her temper. The argument is filmed and posted all over the internet. Which isn't good for her reputation or the bakery, but when Brandy is later found dead in the bakery's freezer things go from bad to worse. That argument lands Maddy at the top of the suspect list.
As if she doesn't have enough on her plate, a stranger asserts he is Octavia's friend and tells her she is in danger. Then a body is found washed up on the lakeshore. With two bodies she thinks the man could be right.
Are the deaths related to her aunt's? Or has Maddy stirred up some other trouble? It's all hands on deck as Maddy, her veterinarian boyfriend Michael, Sheriff April Johnson, the Baker Street Irregulars, and even her English mastiff Baby pitch in to put the pinch on the killer.
____
When I open a book by Ms. Burns I know I am in for a treat. The first chapter had me giggling and as expected the humor popped up in all the right places throughout the story.
Maddy is surrounded by all the characters we have come to love since this series started. Trooper Bob returns and Maddy's father the Admiral arrives on the scene. The Admiral was a great addition. His love for his daughter shined in this story. Maddy has truly found her place in New Bison. Her baking is a work in progress, but she is making progress. I enjoy how everyone in her life comes together to always help her in any way they can. Whether helping with the bakery or tracking down a murderer, they give their all.
Trooper Bob, when asked to protect Maddie - "Are you joking? Her father's a naval admiral, she's dating an ex-Army commando, lives with the town sheriff, and walks around town with a two-hundred-fifty-pound horse who recently ate his way through an SUV when he thought she was in danger. Who in their right mind would come close to her? She got more protection than the freakin' governor."
The mysteries in this book are complex because a thread that started in Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder, continued in Murder is a Piece of Cake is wrapped up by the end of this story. People from Maddy's LA past have curiously shown up in New Bison and she appears to have a stalker, and then two of them are dead. Ms. Burns twisted things together in unexpected ways that tested her characters. A new friend proved to be very valuable. As did the lovable Baby. The truth was soon revealed and the takedown was epic! Part familiar from another source was executed perfectly.
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death is a fabulously fun read. It's filled with delightful characters, zany misunderstandings, crazy situations, mysteries with teeth, and an ending that touches the heart. The ending feels like the end of the series which makes me sad. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters. I hope the author proves me wrong and there is another visit to New Bison, Michigan in our future.
#5starread #recipes #perfectescape #murder #cozymystery #babycakes #englishmastiff #somuchfun
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
October 24, 2024
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death is just another charming, romantic comfort cozy murder mystery by the incredible Valerie Burns. It's funny, there are murders to solve, interesting characters and an adorable English Mastiff named Baby. And if that isn't enough, the main character owns a bakery, and one can almost taste and smell what they are baking!
Maddy's new life as owner of Baby Cakes Bakery, the store her Aunt Octavia owned and which she inherited (along with her aunt's dog...very big dog, named Baby) when she died under very mysterious circumstances.
Maddy's life has finally settled down and she and Baby understand each other, sort of. Maddy has even been attempting to do some baking, as in her prior life she was a social influencer on social media. But when of all people, Brandy Denton, another social media influencer AND the woman who took her fiancé a doctor away from her visits this small town, Maddy goes ballistic on her. Unfortunately, the fight was caught on tape and put on social medial with many views. Of course this happens in Maddy's bakery!
So, when Brandy shows us dead in the bakery, well unfortunately for Maddy, she becomes the prime suspect in her murder. Why does this keep happening to her? Her roommate, Sherriff April Johnson is taken off the case and the head honcho of the next town who Maddy has butt heads with in the past takes over and pressures her to confess. So does her own lawyer who keeps telling her he can work out a deal.
But, with a little help from her friends, her boyfriend Michael, the local veterinarian as well as the hardworking Baker Street Irregulars, friends of her beloved aunt and murder mystery buffs begin to collect clues.
But it doesn't seem to be going well. Her ex-fiancé shows up as well as a mysterious stranger who informs Maddy that he has kept something her aunt gave him to give to her. But just as he is to meet her, something goes wrong.
With all this against Maddy, how will this end?
A Cup of Flour, a Pinch of Death will not disappoint. With so many moving parts, and a wonderful, surprising ending, which will excite Maddy and Baby fans, I suggest you sit and read this delightful story with a cup of coffee (or tea) with one of the recipes at the end of the book!
Thank you #NetGalley #Kensington #ValerieBurns #ACupofFlour,aPinchofDeath for the advanced copy.
Maddy's new life as owner of Baby Cakes Bakery, the store her Aunt Octavia owned and which she inherited (along with her aunt's dog...very big dog, named Baby) when she died under very mysterious circumstances.
Maddy's life has finally settled down and she and Baby understand each other, sort of. Maddy has even been attempting to do some baking, as in her prior life she was a social influencer on social media. But when of all people, Brandy Denton, another social media influencer AND the woman who took her fiancé a doctor away from her visits this small town, Maddy goes ballistic on her. Unfortunately, the fight was caught on tape and put on social medial with many views. Of course this happens in Maddy's bakery!
So, when Brandy shows us dead in the bakery, well unfortunately for Maddy, she becomes the prime suspect in her murder. Why does this keep happening to her? Her roommate, Sherriff April Johnson is taken off the case and the head honcho of the next town who Maddy has butt heads with in the past takes over and pressures her to confess. So does her own lawyer who keeps telling her he can work out a deal.
But, with a little help from her friends, her boyfriend Michael, the local veterinarian as well as the hardworking Baker Street Irregulars, friends of her beloved aunt and murder mystery buffs begin to collect clues.
But it doesn't seem to be going well. Her ex-fiancé shows up as well as a mysterious stranger who informs Maddy that he has kept something her aunt gave him to give to her. But just as he is to meet her, something goes wrong.
With all this against Maddy, how will this end?
A Cup of Flour, a Pinch of Death will not disappoint. With so many moving parts, and a wonderful, surprising ending, which will excite Maddy and Baby fans, I suggest you sit and read this delightful story with a cup of coffee (or tea) with one of the recipes at the end of the book!
Thank you #NetGalley #Kensington #ValerieBurns #ACupofFlour,aPinchofDeath for the advanced copy.
August 23, 2024
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death by Valerie Burns
Baker Street Mystery #3
271-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Mystery > Cozy Mystery; Thriller > Mystery Thriller; Contemporary, Romance, Adult Fiction, African American Fiction
Featuring: Praise, Author's Bibliography, Navy Brat, Small-Town Michigan off Lake Michigan Shoreline, Influencer, Bakery, English Mastiff, Ex-Army Beau, Social Media, Hashtags, Cows
Recipes from Baby Cakes Bakery
Books and Authors mentioned: The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene - Nancy Drew Mystery Stories #1, Twilight by Stephenie Meyer - Twilight #1, The Case of the Velvet Claws by Erle Stanley Gardner - Perry Mason, The Final Problem by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle - Sherlock Holmes SS,
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🌾🧂🍞🥐🥖🎂🍪☠️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 29 of 27 Chapter 4 - I was very confused about Brandy, friend or foe, so I had to finish the chapter in a restaurant. Totally, worth it this is better than the last book so far.
🔖39 Chapter 5 - I'm finally in the mood to read this book and my checklist won't let me. Looking for an audiobook.
🔖157 Chapter 31 - I forgot it was cozy and missed the obvious mark. The rest of the plot is thin, I just hoping we solve the murder from book 1 in this book.
🔖231 Chapter 46 - This is probably the best book of the series but it's starting to annoy me. Almost done but I couldn't take any more Baby Cakes and Baby.
This book had the usual flaws you find in cozy mysteries but other than that it was pretty fantastic I think what was very unique about it was that you solved the mystery from book one. I'm not sure if that means this is gonna be the last book or if there are more books to come. I enjoyed. I'm actually going to try that sweet potato pie recipe to compare to my own.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This series has a few annoyances but it's pretty fun overall.
Baker Street Mystery
1. Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder (2022)
2. Murder is a Piece of Cake (2023)
3. A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death (2024)
Baker Street Mystery #3
271-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Mystery > Cozy Mystery; Thriller > Mystery Thriller; Contemporary, Romance, Adult Fiction, African American Fiction
Featuring: Praise, Author's Bibliography, Navy Brat, Small-Town Michigan off Lake Michigan Shoreline, Influencer, Bakery, English Mastiff, Ex-Army Beau, Social Media, Hashtags, Cows
Recipes from Baby Cakes Bakery
Books and Authors mentioned: The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene - Nancy Drew Mystery Stories #1, Twilight by Stephenie Meyer - Twilight #1, The Case of the Velvet Claws by Erle Stanley Gardner - Perry Mason, The Final Problem by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle - Sherlock Holmes SS,
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🌾🧂🍞🥐🥖🎂🍪☠️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 29 of 27 Chapter 4 - I was very confused about Brandy, friend or foe, so I had to finish the chapter in a restaurant. Totally, worth it this is better than the last book so far.
🔖39 Chapter 5 - I'm finally in the mood to read this book and my checklist won't let me. Looking for an audiobook.
🔖157 Chapter 31 - I forgot it was cozy and missed the obvious mark. The rest of the plot is thin, I just hoping we solve the murder from book 1 in this book.
🔖231 Chapter 46 - This is probably the best book of the series but it's starting to annoy me. Almost done but I couldn't take any more Baby Cakes and Baby.
This book had the usual flaws you find in cozy mysteries but other than that it was pretty fantastic I think what was very unique about it was that you solved the mystery from book one. I'm not sure if that means this is gonna be the last book or if there are more books to come. I enjoyed. I'm actually going to try that sweet potato pie recipe to compare to my own.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This series has a few annoyances but it's pretty fun overall.
Baker Street Mystery
1. Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder (2022)
2. Murder is a Piece of Cake (2023)
3. A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death (2024)
August 13, 2024
I love this series! The characters are well developed, continue to grow throughout the series, and are people that I would love to be friends with. The mysteries are always creative and keep me guessing until the end. My one issue is that she runs a bakery but never seems to be there; I get that she can’t bake and it runs on its own but it is just mentioned at times. If you’re looking for a book with good mysteries, fun characters, and a lot of humor (I will never look at hard boiled eggs the same way again), then I highly recommend this whole series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
July 29, 2024
4.5 stars
The Baker Street Mysteries by Valerie Burns is one of my very favorite cozy mystery series, and I was delighted to return to New Bison, Maddy, Baby, and the Baker Street Irregulars in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death!
From the beginning Maddy and her inherited 250-pound English Mastiff named Baby easily captured my heart, but honestly I love the Irregulars – including Maddy’s hunky new boyfriend Michael and his grandmother Miss Hannah – almost as much. They’re a solid cast of characters that endear themselves to me more all the time, and of course I love the chemistry between Michael and Maddy and watching their romance progress. The way everyone, including Maddy’s crusty admiral dad and several tertiary characters of New Bison (one of whom I especially enjoyed meeting), rallied around Maddy in this third book really warmed my heart and had me wishing I could pull Maddy into a ‘see? they love you!’ hug.
The mystery in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death brings Maddy full circle in more ways than one. The LA life that she left behind collides with the new life she’s built in Michigan, and Maddy is soon suspect number one in the murder of her fiance-stealing nemesis. Cue some scenes where I’m reminded again of how much I love Maddy and how relatable she is, but also the layers to this part of the story kept me on my toes. The author also brings us back to the suspicious death of Maddy’s Great-Aunt Octavia, the same mystery that Maddy’s been investigating since the first book. The loose ends that now get tied up were, for me anyway, a mixture of “I didn’t see that coming” and “I KNEW IT” moments, and I loved it!
Bottom Line: Once again, Valerie Burns treats us to a fun and engaging mystery-solving adventure with the completely endearing (and formidable) team of Maddy and Baby and the Baker Street Irregulars. Her writing voice is perfect for this style of cozy – and for Maddy & Baby’s characters in general – and the various plot threads that make up A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death were the most delightfully twisty of the series, I think. The mysteries in this book were tightly-layered and held my interest all the way through, too. I could easily spend several more books with these characters and in this world, and even though the author brought some ongoing elements of the series to a conclusion in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death, I hope there are at least several more books to come.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
The Baker Street Mysteries by Valerie Burns is one of my very favorite cozy mystery series, and I was delighted to return to New Bison, Maddy, Baby, and the Baker Street Irregulars in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death!
From the beginning Maddy and her inherited 250-pound English Mastiff named Baby easily captured my heart, but honestly I love the Irregulars – including Maddy’s hunky new boyfriend Michael and his grandmother Miss Hannah – almost as much. They’re a solid cast of characters that endear themselves to me more all the time, and of course I love the chemistry between Michael and Maddy and watching their romance progress. The way everyone, including Maddy’s crusty admiral dad and several tertiary characters of New Bison (one of whom I especially enjoyed meeting), rallied around Maddy in this third book really warmed my heart and had me wishing I could pull Maddy into a ‘see? they love you!’ hug.
The mystery in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death brings Maddy full circle in more ways than one. The LA life that she left behind collides with the new life she’s built in Michigan, and Maddy is soon suspect number one in the murder of her fiance-stealing nemesis. Cue some scenes where I’m reminded again of how much I love Maddy and how relatable she is, but also the layers to this part of the story kept me on my toes. The author also brings us back to the suspicious death of Maddy’s Great-Aunt Octavia, the same mystery that Maddy’s been investigating since the first book. The loose ends that now get tied up were, for me anyway, a mixture of “I didn’t see that coming” and “I KNEW IT” moments, and I loved it!
Bottom Line: Once again, Valerie Burns treats us to a fun and engaging mystery-solving adventure with the completely endearing (and formidable) team of Maddy and Baby and the Baker Street Irregulars. Her writing voice is perfect for this style of cozy – and for Maddy & Baby’s characters in general – and the various plot threads that make up A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death were the most delightfully twisty of the series, I think. The mysteries in this book were tightly-layered and held my interest all the way through, too. I could easily spend several more books with these characters and in this world, and even though the author brought some ongoing elements of the series to a conclusion in A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death, I hope there are at least several more books to come.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 1, 2024
I really enjoyed reading about the familiar characters in this contemporary cozy mystery series. In this third book, Maddy is involved in solving a mystery that comes from her past. Although I had the killer figured out early on, I still enjoyed the story. However, the editing could have been better.
June 19, 2024
"A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death (Baker Street Mystery #3)" by Valerie Burns picks up pretty quick after the first two books of the series. I do have to say a thank you for not dragging out the multiple book spanning mystery part of the story. I get that is the glue to some books, but there's only so long a sub plot like the one this one has until it gets too long and reader's loose interest. I think this one's subplot mystery ended just right.
I ended up being right about who the big culprit was. Unless, there's a bigger baddie above this one and we're just scratching the local people off the list. I hope this is it and we can move on to something less paranoia inducing. However, this one did really end up just centering around wrapping up that sub plot. We also get to see a lot of closure for Maddy from her LA past.
I ended up being right about who the big culprit was. Unless, there's a bigger baddie above this one and we're just scratching the local people off the list. I hope this is it and we can move on to something less paranoia inducing. However, this one did really end up just centering around wrapping up that sub plot. We also get to see a lot of closure for Maddy from her LA past.
December 11, 2024
The best thing I did this year was start this series. This third book was a delight and I adooooore all these recurring characters, but ESPECIALLY Maddy and Baby. Her drive to learn to bake/cook and keep her great aunt's bakery afloat, while also trying to solve the mystery of her death, AND other mysteries that keep fall around her is amazing. She is hilarious and sassy and smart and I just love following her every move. When people from her "old life" come and try to ruin her new one, she does not back down (though I can absolutely feel for her and the anxiety she has trying to trust her new relationships). I could not put this book down and was shocked by the ending! I do hope this series continues!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic!
Thanks to the publisher for a free review copy; my thoughts are my own.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic!
Thanks to the publisher for a free review copy; my thoughts are my own.
April 22, 2024
#ACupofFlourAPinchofDeath #NetGalley is another fun addition to this series.
Maddy and her side kick Baby are up to their elbows in another murder investigation and this time, Maddy is a suspect once again.
The appearance of ex friend and fiance stealer Brandy rocks Maddy's world, especially when she is found dead, and all evidence points directly to her.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Maddy and her side kick Baby are up to their elbows in another murder investigation and this time, Maddy is a suspect once again.
The appearance of ex friend and fiance stealer Brandy rocks Maddy's world, especially when she is found dead, and all evidence points directly to her.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
June 5, 2024
This book was FUN! Loved another installment of Maddy and her friends, especially getting to know The Admiral. The book wrapped up both the latest case as well as an overarching theme. The series could be satisfactorily ended here, but I really hope Ms. Burns continues it!
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the complimentary digital review copy of this title.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the complimentary digital review copy of this title.
Read
August 27, 2025Summer 2025 Reread:
I reread this book before starting the 4th book in this series.
This remains delightful.
Original review:
This was my final read of 2024!
I have my 3 grandkids and needed something relaxing. I listened to this while cleaning and cooking for the holiday.
I loved this so much.
I look forward to book 4.
I highly recommend that readers start with book 1 so they can understand the storyline in this book. Some cozies are more or less standalones. This could be read as a standalone but the book is so much better when taken with the first 2 in the series.
I reread this book before starting the 4th book in this series.
This remains delightful.
Original review:
This was my final read of 2024!
I have my 3 grandkids and needed something relaxing. I listened to this while cleaning and cooking for the holiday.
I loved this so much.
I look forward to book 4.
I highly recommend that readers start with book 1 so they can understand the storyline in this book. Some cozies are more or less standalones. This could be read as a standalone but the book is so much better when taken with the first 2 in the series.
April 11, 2024
Maddie is back for a third installment of the Baker Street Mystery series and this time her nemesis is in town, but what's her angle? It seems like she's just there to harass Maddie, but when she turns up dead in the bakery, suddenly Maddie is the only suspect. She's going to have to reconvene the Baker Street Irregulars and clear her name before she's arrested for a crime she didn't commit.
First, did the person who wrote the synopsis on GR even read the book? Anyway, this was a fun read. I still hate the stupid hashtags, but other than that, this was fun.
First, did the person who wrote the synopsis on GR even read the book? Anyway, this was a fun read. I still hate the stupid hashtags, but other than that, this was fun.
October 14, 2025
This is the third in what I believe is a series of four books. I have read all three. I’ve enjoyed the setting and getting to know the characters the plots however use in my opinion some contrived detective story clichés and I don’t wanna give anything away but the ending of this one seems very Scooby Doo like. Having said that I am sure I will read the fourth one.
January 12, 2025
Fun series with a colorful cast of characters— looking forward to reading the 4th book!
May 6, 2025
Cute. Boring reveal.
November 22, 2024
As always with this series, this was an entertaining and easy read, filled with likable characters. I'm glad it finally focused on revealing who the "big bad" was, as I had been frustrated by how obvious it was from the very beginning. Still, it took the protagonist and everyone around her far too long to realize the truth, to the point where it made no sense because it was so glaringly obvious. Additionally, there was a subplot revolving around the romantic relationship that made no sense. I won't share spoilers, but the ending felt rushed.
August 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this addition. There is a lot going on in this small town. The authors writing is so interesting and keeps you engaged. I love the setting for this series and that the main character is not written older like so many MFC are. I also like that she is in to her guy. I do also thing that the millennial of it all was toned down a little in this book, and I appreciate that.
May 14, 2024
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death is a fun, cozy mystery, and part of the Baker Street Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone- huge thanks to Valerie Burns for that, because I did not read any of the other books, but fortunately, I was not left clueless!
In this book, we follow Madison Montgomery, an LA girlie new to the small town of New Bison, Michigan after inheriting her great-aunt Octavia's bakery, house, and dog after she passed. Being the daughter of an Admiral, the girlfriend of an ex-Army commando, and the best friend of a sheriff, you would think no trouble would come Maddie's way, right?
Wrong!
Trouble always seems to find Maddie, specifically by means of murder. There have already been two bodies found in her bakery, and when her ex-friend turned nemesis, Brandy Denton is found dead in her bakery, all fingers seem to point to Maddie. The two have been enemies ever since Brandy stole Maddie's fiancé right from under her nose, and she's been making her life hell ever since. A video of the women arguing was posted to social media right before Brandy was found dead, and it does not look good for Brandy. Not to mention, just days later another body is found, thankfully not in the bakery, however there is a connection between the new victim, Oliver Freemont, and Brandy. With the help of her boyfriend, father, English mastiff, and new family in New Bison, Maddie sets out to find out who killed Brandy and Oliver and clear her name.
I loved every minute of this mystery! It is so cozy and fun, with each character adding to the story as a whole. The mystery is a funny and very relaxed one, with pieces slowly coming together to solve this enjoyable mystery. The ending was the sweetest and perfect, considering where Maddie and Michael were unbtheur relationship. Huge perks for adding recipes from Baby Cakes bakery at the end! Loved it, and I'm so ready for the next book in this series (right after I get my hands on the first 2! Lol)
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Valerie Burns for such a wonderfully creative ARC!
In this book, we follow Madison Montgomery, an LA girlie new to the small town of New Bison, Michigan after inheriting her great-aunt Octavia's bakery, house, and dog after she passed. Being the daughter of an Admiral, the girlfriend of an ex-Army commando, and the best friend of a sheriff, you would think no trouble would come Maddie's way, right?
Wrong!
Trouble always seems to find Maddie, specifically by means of murder. There have already been two bodies found in her bakery, and when her ex-friend turned nemesis, Brandy Denton is found dead in her bakery, all fingers seem to point to Maddie. The two have been enemies ever since Brandy stole Maddie's fiancé right from under her nose, and she's been making her life hell ever since. A video of the women arguing was posted to social media right before Brandy was found dead, and it does not look good for Brandy. Not to mention, just days later another body is found, thankfully not in the bakery, however there is a connection between the new victim, Oliver Freemont, and Brandy. With the help of her boyfriend, father, English mastiff, and new family in New Bison, Maddie sets out to find out who killed Brandy and Oliver and clear her name.
I loved every minute of this mystery! It is so cozy and fun, with each character adding to the story as a whole. The mystery is a funny and very relaxed one, with pieces slowly coming together to solve this enjoyable mystery. The ending was the sweetest and perfect, considering where Maddie and Michael were unbtheur relationship. Huge perks for adding recipes from Baby Cakes bakery at the end! Loved it, and I'm so ready for the next book in this series (right after I get my hands on the first 2! Lol)
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Valerie Burns for such a wonderfully creative ARC!
July 29, 2024
A Cup Of Flour, A Pinch Of Death is the third book in Valerie Burns's Baker Street Mystery series.
It's always a heartwarming experience to catch up with the familiar faces of Maddie Montgomery and her friends in New Bison, Michigan.
One day, as Maddie was walking down the sidewalk, she was surprised to see Brandy Denton, the girl who caused Maddie’s fiance to leave her at the altar. A few days later, Maddie's life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers Brandy's body in her bakery, setting the stage for a thrilling and suspenseful mystery. To clear her anime from any suspicion, Maddie will call on her Baker Street friends to clear her name.
This book also deals with a man approaching Maddie and telling her her life is in danger. He is a friend of her Aunt Octavia. Maddie shortly after this discussion, finds the man’s body washed up on shore near her home.
After hearing about Maddie’s father in books one and two, we finally get to meet him. The Admiral is a very interesting character, and I hope that he appears in future books. And, of course, her Mastiff, Baby, is back and as adorable as before.
I love this series. The characters are all well-written and believable. The story is well-written and plotted, and one will feel like they are right there. There were enough twists and turns that I kept guessing until the killer's reveal.
Delicious-sounding recipes are also included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this wonderful series.
It's always a heartwarming experience to catch up with the familiar faces of Maddie Montgomery and her friends in New Bison, Michigan.
One day, as Maddie was walking down the sidewalk, she was surprised to see Brandy Denton, the girl who caused Maddie’s fiance to leave her at the altar. A few days later, Maddie's life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers Brandy's body in her bakery, setting the stage for a thrilling and suspenseful mystery. To clear her anime from any suspicion, Maddie will call on her Baker Street friends to clear her name.
This book also deals with a man approaching Maddie and telling her her life is in danger. He is a friend of her Aunt Octavia. Maddie shortly after this discussion, finds the man’s body washed up on shore near her home.
After hearing about Maddie’s father in books one and two, we finally get to meet him. The Admiral is a very interesting character, and I hope that he appears in future books. And, of course, her Mastiff, Baby, is back and as adorable as before.
I love this series. The characters are all well-written and believable. The story is well-written and plotted, and one will feel like they are right there. There were enough twists and turns that I kept guessing until the killer's reveal.
Delicious-sounding recipes are also included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this wonderful series.
April 16, 2024
A Cup Of Flour A Pinch Of Murder was soooooo good. This series is definitely on my top 10 cozies. I can't remember when i read a series this fast (6 days)
It was definitely a trilogy. A lot of loose ends from the first 2 books were solved and explained. But I'm really hoping the series continues maybe even with another trilogy story.
I would miss these characters too much of this was the end. I loved seeing Maddys father in this boom and him not just being a voice screaming at her from the end of a phone. I also liked the new edition of Corson Law. I wish we got to know her more and home if there are more books in this series that she's in them. I also hope to see Miss Hannah, more and less of her spells, it breaks my heart every time she has one. I'm glad there were less #'s in this book, so many of them is my only complaint with the series.
I highly recommend this series and thank you Kensington for the arc! I hope there will be more to come with this series!
It was definitely a trilogy. A lot of loose ends from the first 2 books were solved and explained. But I'm really hoping the series continues maybe even with another trilogy story.
I would miss these characters too much of this was the end. I loved seeing Maddys father in this boom and him not just being a voice screaming at her from the end of a phone. I also liked the new edition of Corson Law. I wish we got to know her more and home if there are more books in this series that she's in them. I also hope to see Miss Hannah, more and less of her spells, it breaks my heart every time she has one. I'm glad there were less #'s in this book, so many of them is my only complaint with the series.
I highly recommend this series and thank you Kensington for the arc! I hope there will be more to come with this series!
May 31, 2025
2⭐️
It took them 3 books to figure oit the lawyer was the suspect meanwhile, i clocked it the moment he came up in the first book. How annoying is that. Having to read 3 books to finally see the guys get caught. And allllll Maddie needed to do was ask Hannah about him. Lolz that pissed me off. The author either wanted me to expect what was coming or she thinks I’m stupid af to not see what was happening. Either way, it was not worth it.
If my library gets her 4th book, i might read it cause again, I’m already 3 books deep but honestly, what more could happen in this town?!
Would never recommend. It’s just really dragged out.
It took them 3 books to figure oit the lawyer was the suspect meanwhile, i clocked it the moment he came up in the first book. How annoying is that. Having to read 3 books to finally see the guys get caught. And allllll Maddie needed to do was ask Hannah about him. Lolz that pissed me off. The author either wanted me to expect what was coming or she thinks I’m stupid af to not see what was happening. Either way, it was not worth it.
If my library gets her 4th book, i might read it cause again, I’m already 3 books deep but honestly, what more could happen in this town?!
Would never recommend. It’s just really dragged out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2024
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death, is the third book in the Baker Street mystery series by Valerie Burns. Social media influencer Maddy Montgomery is adjusting to her new life in Downtown New Bison located on the Lake Michigan coastline, taking care of an inherited English mastiff and running Baby Cakes Bakery. The business is getting so much good publicity that it draws the attention of former nemesis/fiancé stealing Brandy Denton. But when an argument goes viral and Brandy's body is found at Baby Cakes, Maddy is the prime suspect.
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death can be read as a standalone. The author, Valerie Burns, does a great job with introductions and providing enough background so readers new to the series are not clueless. It is also a refresher for current fans. There is nothing to dislike about this cast of characters in the Baker Street mystery series. The camaraderie among Maddy, her great-aunt's friends, her veterinarian boyfriend, the sheriff and her father "The Admiral" are baker's kiss.
Like most cozy mysteries, it is unbelievable that murders just happen to happen around the same amateur sleuth at the same place of business in a quaint town. But it doesn't take any joy away from reading the story. The mystery itself will have you guessing on the right track with treats along the way. What sets this series apart from other foodie cozy mysteries? Characters of color, a lovable pet and real recipes! Need I say more?
Happy Early Pub Day, Valerie Burns! A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death will be available on July 23.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death can be read as a standalone. The author, Valerie Burns, does a great job with introductions and providing enough background so readers new to the series are not clueless. It is also a refresher for current fans. There is nothing to dislike about this cast of characters in the Baker Street mystery series. The camaraderie among Maddy, her great-aunt's friends, her veterinarian boyfriend, the sheriff and her father "The Admiral" are baker's kiss.
Like most cozy mysteries, it is unbelievable that murders just happen to happen around the same amateur sleuth at the same place of business in a quaint town. But it doesn't take any joy away from reading the story. The mystery itself will have you guessing on the right track with treats along the way. What sets this series apart from other foodie cozy mysteries? Characters of color, a lovable pet and real recipes! Need I say more?
Happy Early Pub Day, Valerie Burns! A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death will be available on July 23.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
July 29, 2025
A Cup of Flour, a Pinch of Death takes place around three months after Murder is a Piece of Cake, six months since the first book, Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder. This book was refreshing after reading some darker stories. I enjoyed seeing Maddy find a community in New Bison and grow into herself over the three books. This book concludes the overall arc with Great Aunt Octavia's death, but I wish we had more time to savour the comeuppance of the "big bad," like what happened after they got mauled? I am curious to see how Icing on the Murder is going to play out.
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POV: 1st Person - Single
Format: Audiobook - Single Narrator
· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·
POV: 1st Person - Single
Format: Audiobook - Single Narrator
August 21, 2025
Normally, I wouldn't start with the third book in a series, but...listen. I was at a signing with Valerie Burns. I picked up the book. I read it and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Burns has created a delightful little town, a romance I could get behind, a dog I want to pet, and a heroine I would like to meet over cortados. I may not know the first thing about fashion, but I'd gladly listen to what Maddy had to say on the topic. I'd also happily be the Bess or George to her Nancy Drew.
Writers, if you're looking for a quick class on chapter end hooks--this is a good book for that.
Readers, if you're looking for a new cozy, a fish out of water/found family/small town series, then check out the Baker Street Mysteries. Here's book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Burns has created a delightful little town, a romance I could get behind, a dog I want to pet, and a heroine I would like to meet over cortados. I may not know the first thing about fashion, but I'd gladly listen to what Maddy had to say on the topic. I'd also happily be the Bess or George to her Nancy Drew.
Writers, if you're looking for a quick class on chapter end hooks--this is a good book for that.
Readers, if you're looking for a new cozy, a fish out of water/found family/small town series, then check out the Baker Street Mysteries. Here's book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
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