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Maple Lane #4
Doughnuts and Disaster
Maddie's best friend could die... She's been baking jelly doughnuts for Angel's salon for a year when out of the blue, the order is canceled. This is a big deal for the doughnut loving hairdresser and the first sign that things aren't right. The second is when Angel's abusive ex-husband secretly arrives in town. Then there's the fact that Maddie's boyfriend, aka the sheriff, has been unable to crack a string of murders and the clues point to Angel. Someone obviously believes the sassy southerner holds the key to unlocking this mystery. A mystery they want to keep dead and buried. With murder too close for comfort, Angel appears to have a target on her back. Will Maddie save her in time? You'll love the clues aplenty in this cozy mystery because everyone enjoys a whodunnit! Delicious Cozy Mysteries with free recipes. The Maple Lane Mysteries are light, cozy mysteries featuring a quirky cat-loving bakery owner who discovers she's a talented amateur sleuth.
The Maple Lane Sigar and Sliced - The Maple Lane prequel
Book 1: Apple Pie and Arsenic
Book 2: Bagels and Blackmail
Book 3: Cookies and Chaos
Book 4: Doughnuts and Disaster
Book 5: Eclairs and Extortion
Book 6: Fudge and Frenemies
Book 7: Gingerbread and Gunshots Book 8: Honey Cake and Homicide - Coming soon! "I enjoyed the story thoroughly. One of my favourite authors. Realistic situations and unpredictable. Never ceases to satisfy me." "Another outstanding story featuring Maddie, Big Red and the Girlz. Once you get into their stories, you can't get out. C.A. has another hit featuring an ex and a serial murderer." " I love the characters in this series of mysteries. As usual, the plot is twisty, with several suspects and various motives."
The Maple Lane Sigar and Sliced - The Maple Lane prequel
Book 1: Apple Pie and Arsenic
Book 2: Bagels and Blackmail
Book 3: Cookies and Chaos
Book 4: Doughnuts and Disaster
Book 5: Eclairs and Extortion
Book 6: Fudge and Frenemies
Book 7: Gingerbread and Gunshots Book 8: Honey Cake and Homicide - Coming soon! "I enjoyed the story thoroughly. One of my favourite authors. Realistic situations and unpredictable. Never ceases to satisfy me." "Another outstanding story featuring Maddie, Big Red and the Girlz. Once you get into their stories, you can't get out. C.A. has another hit featuring an ex and a serial murderer." " I love the characters in this series of mysteries. As usual, the plot is twisty, with several suspects and various motives."
252 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2019
About the author
C.A. Phipps
82 books901 followersC. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. Cheryl lives in a quiet suburb with her wonderful husband of more than four decades.
With a large family to keep her busy when she's not writing, there is just enough space for a crazy mixed breed dog who stole her heart!
She enjoys family times, baking, rambling walks, and her quest for the perfect latte.
You can find her at www.caphipps.com
C. A. Phipps also writes romance as Cheryl Phipps at www.cherylphipps.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 16, 2022
Maddie’s best friend, Angel’s ex husband is in town. He want to meet up with Angel to talk to her. Maddie is concerned about her friend but is supportive of Angel’s decision. That is until he is linked to a murder in town. Maddie dives into the murder investigation head first to make sure Angel is not going to get hurt again especially if there is a chance she is meeting a murderer.
I am really enjoying this series. Maddie, her grandmother, and friends are likable, realistic, and interesting characters. The chemistry between Maddie and Sheriff Ethan is sweet but can sometimes be complicated. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twist and turns along the way to the big reveal. I recommend this to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
I am really enjoying this series. Maddie, her grandmother, and friends are likable, realistic, and interesting characters. The chemistry between Maddie and Sheriff Ethan is sweet but can sometimes be complicated. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twist and turns along the way to the big reveal. I recommend this to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
October 5, 2021
2.5 stars
The Maple Lane Bakery is busier than ever, especially with Angel's daily jelly doughnut order, but with Gran, Laura and Luke to help, Maddie is coping well. When Angel hears her ex-husband Brad is coming back to town and wants to meet with her, Maddie is livid. She won't let Angel be hurt again. None of the Girlz are happy about Angel meeting Brad again and promise to protect her. After waiting days for the Brad-sixed shoe to drop, Angel is on edge. The Girlz could all use a getaway so Maggie takes them out to her Granddad's cabin by the lake, eager to show off some of the survival skills he taught her. Before the Girlz have time for some R&R, Maddie hears shouting in the distance and the sound of a rifle shooting. She rushes to discover what happened and finds yet another dead body. The man looks vaguely familiar but she can't quite place him. When Ethan arrives on the scene, he agrees. Angel identifies the man as Magnus, a friend of Brad's from long ago. Could Brad be the murderer? He's certainly involved somehow. When Angel next hears from Brad, he claims he's in trouble and needs Maddie's help. Should she help the man who hurt her friend so badly or give him a second chance? Ethan's instinct is to haul Brad in for questioning but Maddie's instinct says to trust him. Is Brad telling the truth? If Maddie agrees to help him it could put Angel and even herself in danger, something Ethan does NOT want to happen. Ethan worries Brad is involved in another murder case close to Destiny where the locals aren't talking. He can't allow Maddie to put herself in danger but as usual she doesn't listen. Maddie is certain she can do this safely. Plus, she has Granddad's survival skills to assist her. What could go wrong?
This story is darker and scarier than any of the others. The crime was more serious than any of the others and more real world. I didn't like that at all. Plus the story was light on romance. The humor was unbalanced. There's a lot in the beginning and then not much else. Big Blue adds a lot of humor in the first chapter but that's mostly it. I appreciated the more nuanced characters and the fact I couldn't put the book down just as I was about to shut it down for the night but this wasn't my cup of tea. I noticed many grammatical errors that need to be cleaned up as well as the changed spelling of Ethan's nephew's name. First it was Jessie, a feminine spelling, and then in this book it switches to Jesse, the usual masculine spelling. Pick one and be consistent please.
Maddie is CRAZY! Sure her Granddad taught her some survival techniques and they may come in handy but she puts herself into impossible and dangerous situations when she doesn't need to. She fails multiple times and nearly gets herself and her friends killed. Obviously, since there's two more books, we know she doesn't get killed, but it's still nerve wracking to watch her go through it. Her kind heart gets her into big time trouble. Ethan is a nice guy too but as a cop, he's more wary and knows this situation could turn dangerous. He loves Maddie and her Gran and the Girlz are important to him as well. He knows Angel's past and doesn't trust Brad. Yet at the same time, he's kind of naïve and clueless about something else going on under his nose.
Angel is about the nicest, sweetest woman on the planet and I can see why everyone fears Brad will take advantage of her. However, she proves she's come a long way since her divorce. She's smart, confident and capable and knows not to get sucked back into Brad's bad behavior. To Brad's credit, he seems like he wants to make amends. He sounds like a nice guy who happened to get into trouble a lot. Some of it was because he was coerced by his horrid twin brother Caleb. Caleb is the older twin and has the more forceful personality. Caleb is a two-dimensional villain. He's greedy, nasty and arrogant. Brad is a little more three-dimensional. He COULD be reformed or he COULD be involved in shady business and be dragging Angel and Maddie in as a trap. I wasn't sure what to think but I'd be inclined to believe him too. He wouldn't have used the phrase "as a recovering alcoholic" if he wasn't in some kind of a program. He'd be more likely to announce he quit drinking and leave it at that. He does seem to want to make amends, however, like his brother, he's selfish. Brad never thinks about how his actions place the person he cares about the most in danger. He only thinks about himself.
The Girlz stick together with Angel and always have her back. Suzy is cautious and careful. She's happy in the town and not outdoors in nature. Suzy isn't too eager to launch an investigation that could lead to danger. Laura, surprisingly, is OK with it even though she's scared. She's determined to pay back those who have helped her. She's not so great in nature but she is a devoted friend and willing to try something unfamiliar in order to spend time with the other Girlz. Gran takes a backseat in the investigation and is left home with Big Red to worry. Her stress causes her to cook and bake a TON of food which she is always willing to share. Gran doesn't appreciate being kept in the dark and I'm surprised she didn't insist on joining Maddie. I do think Layla is close to joining The Girlz. At least she would if she had more time. She's fun when she can be but a little bit meddlesome. She worries a lot about her twins causing trouble but they seem like sweet boys. Layla is dedicated to serving the townspeople as a nurse and trying hard not to work more than she has to so she can be home for the kids. Now she has two new babysitters, hopefully she can get out more. She starts by joining Maddie's cooking class. I feel bad for her she was "mom shamed" because she can't cook.
The murder victim, Magnus Tuft, was a friend of Brad's in school. Magnus may have been a jock but he was a lot nicer than Brad and Caleb. Magnus actually has a heart and compassion. The other murder victim, Charlie Spode, didn't deserve to die but he wasn't the best person on the planet. Ambrose White is a two-dimensional villain. I think Caleb is greedy but lazy and it's Ambrose who is the man behind Caleb's more dastardly deeds.
There's a random new deputy in town, Deputy Neilson. He seems to really dislike Ethan. Maddie chalks it up to insecurity over the bond between Ethan, Rob and the other longtime deputies. I think he's up to no good. It's SOOOO obvious. He gets dropped from the plot and then randomly mentioned again after I kept wondering what happened to him. That should have been shown and not just told.
The next book sounds very good so I already downloaded that!
The Maple Lane Bakery is busier than ever, especially with Angel's daily jelly doughnut order, but with Gran, Laura and Luke to help, Maddie is coping well. When Angel hears her ex-husband Brad is coming back to town and wants to meet with her, Maddie is livid. She won't let Angel be hurt again. None of the Girlz are happy about Angel meeting Brad again and promise to protect her. After waiting days for the Brad-sixed shoe to drop, Angel is on edge. The Girlz could all use a getaway so Maggie takes them out to her Granddad's cabin by the lake, eager to show off some of the survival skills he taught her. Before the Girlz have time for some R&R, Maddie hears shouting in the distance and the sound of a rifle shooting. She rushes to discover what happened and finds yet another dead body. The man looks vaguely familiar but she can't quite place him. When Ethan arrives on the scene, he agrees. Angel identifies the man as Magnus, a friend of Brad's from long ago. Could Brad be the murderer? He's certainly involved somehow. When Angel next hears from Brad, he claims he's in trouble and needs Maddie's help. Should she help the man who hurt her friend so badly or give him a second chance? Ethan's instinct is to haul Brad in for questioning but Maddie's instinct says to trust him. Is Brad telling the truth? If Maddie agrees to help him it could put Angel and even herself in danger, something Ethan does NOT want to happen. Ethan worries Brad is involved in another murder case close to Destiny where the locals aren't talking. He can't allow Maddie to put herself in danger but as usual she doesn't listen. Maddie is certain she can do this safely. Plus, she has Granddad's survival skills to assist her. What could go wrong?
This story is darker and scarier than any of the others. The crime was more serious than any of the others and more real world. I didn't like that at all. Plus the story was light on romance. The humor was unbalanced. There's a lot in the beginning and then not much else. Big Blue adds a lot of humor in the first chapter but that's mostly it. I appreciated the more nuanced characters and the fact I couldn't put the book down just as I was about to shut it down for the night but this wasn't my cup of tea. I noticed many grammatical errors that need to be cleaned up as well as the changed spelling of Ethan's nephew's name. First it was Jessie, a feminine spelling, and then in this book it switches to Jesse, the usual masculine spelling. Pick one and be consistent please.
Maddie is CRAZY! Sure her Granddad taught her some survival techniques and they may come in handy but she puts herself into impossible and dangerous situations when she doesn't need to. She fails multiple times and nearly gets herself and her friends killed. Obviously, since there's two more books, we know she doesn't get killed, but it's still nerve wracking to watch her go through it. Her kind heart gets her into big time trouble. Ethan is a nice guy too but as a cop, he's more wary and knows this situation could turn dangerous. He loves Maddie and her Gran and the Girlz are important to him as well. He knows Angel's past and doesn't trust Brad. Yet at the same time, he's kind of naïve and clueless about something else going on under his nose.
Angel is about the nicest, sweetest woman on the planet and I can see why everyone fears Brad will take advantage of her. However, she proves she's come a long way since her divorce. She's smart, confident and capable and knows not to get sucked back into Brad's bad behavior. To Brad's credit, he seems like he wants to make amends. He sounds like a nice guy who happened to get into trouble a lot. Some of it was because he was coerced by his horrid twin brother Caleb. Caleb is the older twin and has the more forceful personality. Caleb is a two-dimensional villain. He's greedy, nasty and arrogant. Brad is a little more three-dimensional. He COULD be reformed or he COULD be involved in shady business and be dragging Angel and Maddie in as a trap. I wasn't sure what to think but I'd be inclined to believe him too. He wouldn't have used the phrase "as a recovering alcoholic" if he wasn't in some kind of a program. He'd be more likely to announce he quit drinking and leave it at that. He does seem to want to make amends, however, like his brother, he's selfish. Brad never thinks about how his actions place the person he cares about the most in danger. He only thinks about himself.
The Girlz stick together with Angel and always have her back. Suzy is cautious and careful. She's happy in the town and not outdoors in nature. Suzy isn't too eager to launch an investigation that could lead to danger. Laura, surprisingly, is OK with it even though she's scared. She's determined to pay back those who have helped her. She's not so great in nature but she is a devoted friend and willing to try something unfamiliar in order to spend time with the other Girlz. Gran takes a backseat in the investigation and is left home with Big Red to worry. Her stress causes her to cook and bake a TON of food which she is always willing to share. Gran doesn't appreciate being kept in the dark and I'm surprised she didn't insist on joining Maddie. I do think Layla is close to joining The Girlz. At least she would if she had more time. She's fun when she can be but a little bit meddlesome. She worries a lot about her twins causing trouble but they seem like sweet boys. Layla is dedicated to serving the townspeople as a nurse and trying hard not to work more than she has to so she can be home for the kids. Now she has two new babysitters, hopefully she can get out more. She starts by joining Maddie's cooking class. I feel bad for her she was "mom shamed" because she can't cook.
The murder victim, Magnus Tuft, was a friend of Brad's in school. Magnus may have been a jock but he was a lot nicer than Brad and Caleb. Magnus actually has a heart and compassion. The other murder victim, Charlie Spode, didn't deserve to die but he wasn't the best person on the planet. Ambrose White is a two-dimensional villain. I think Caleb is greedy but lazy and it's Ambrose who is the man behind Caleb's more dastardly deeds.
There's a random new deputy in town, Deputy Neilson. He seems to really dislike Ethan. Maddie chalks it up to insecurity over the bond between Ethan, Rob and the other longtime deputies. I think he's up to no good. It's SOOOO obvious. He gets dropped from the plot and then randomly mentioned again after I kept wondering what happened to him. That should have been shown and not just told.
The next book sounds very good so I already downloaded that!
March 3, 2022
A Girlz weekend at Grandad’s cabin in the woods, what could go wrong??? Who shot Magnus tuft and why??? I think I will turn the Girlz down the next time they ask!!! However, I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
May 25, 2025
enjoyed the characters and plot
But the book needed a copyeditor and a proofreader as it had too many errors (such as discreet vs discrete), capitalizations when not needed or not consistently, and typos.
But the book needed a copyeditor and a proofreader as it had too many errors (such as discreet vs discrete), capitalizations when not needed or not consistently, and typos.
April 1, 2019
Maddie and friends gather 'round to protect their Angel; danger lurks in the woods!😲
March 31, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
Strong friendships and a sketchy blast from the past who may have turned over a new leaf play into this latest murder mystery involving baker Maddie and her Girlz friends. I've read every book in the series this far and this one is good, IMO better than the last, because it keeps the focus on the tension, danger and investigation surrounding a murder Maddie almost witnesses while taking a break in the woods with her gal pals.
There is more focus on a fairly tight group of a dozen characters or so; pretty easy to follow them and their connections to each other and the murder victim. Although it's a cozy mystery and not a romance, there are several couples who seem to be gravitating towards each other and Maddie is happily paired with Ethan, the local police chief, though there's no hanky panky. In fact, poor Ethan gets shunted out of the action repeatedly; sort of a pity, really. But it gives Maddie's resourcefulness and survival skills, learned at the knee of her beloved departed grandfather, a chance to shine. There's also some tense action and a smattering of Big Red the Maine Coon cat attempts to garner attention due him!😾 A nice mix😊
I enjoyed the story with its sisterhood-centric atmosphere, and was pleased with the ending result. 👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 31, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
Strong friendships and a sketchy blast from the past who may have turned over a new leaf play into this latest murder mystery involving baker Maddie and her Girlz friends. I've read every book in the series this far and this one is good, IMO better than the last, because it keeps the focus on the tension, danger and investigation surrounding a murder Maddie almost witnesses while taking a break in the woods with her gal pals.
There is more focus on a fairly tight group of a dozen characters or so; pretty easy to follow them and their connections to each other and the murder victim. Although it's a cozy mystery and not a romance, there are several couples who seem to be gravitating towards each other and Maddie is happily paired with Ethan, the local police chief, though there's no hanky panky. In fact, poor Ethan gets shunted out of the action repeatedly; sort of a pity, really. But it gives Maddie's resourcefulness and survival skills, learned at the knee of her beloved departed grandfather, a chance to shine. There's also some tense action and a smattering of Big Red the Maine Coon cat attempts to garner attention due him!😾 A nice mix😊
I enjoyed the story with its sisterhood-centric atmosphere, and was pleased with the ending result. 👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 16, 2019
Baker Maddie Flynn finds herself once again knee-deep in solving a murder. When her best friend Angel cancels an order for jelly donuts for her salon, Maddie knows something isn’t right. Donuts are Angel’s Achilles heel and a day doesn’t go by without her enjoying the sweet treats. Maddie soon finds out that Angel has lost her appetite due to a killer being back in town. And if that isn’t enough, the question arises as to why Angel’s ex-husband is back in town.
While all this is going on for Angel, Maddie’s boyfriend Ethan (the sheriff) has been having a hard time cracking the case of a string of murders and Maddie once again sticks her nose into his business. Will he appreciate the help or could she be putting her budding romance in jeopardy.
With so much going on and lots of mystery abound, this cozy mystery will keep you hooked. If you enjoy mystery, madcap adventure, a bit of romance, amateur sleuths, quirky characters, and great story-telling, then you will definitely need to pick up this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While all this is going on for Angel, Maddie’s boyfriend Ethan (the sheriff) has been having a hard time cracking the case of a string of murders and Maddie once again sticks her nose into his business. Will he appreciate the help or could she be putting her budding romance in jeopardy.
With so much going on and lots of mystery abound, this cozy mystery will keep you hooked. If you enjoy mystery, madcap adventure, a bit of romance, amateur sleuths, quirky characters, and great story-telling, then you will definitely need to pick up this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2019
I was truly disappointed in the last book in this series but I found this book to be incredibly enjoyable. Our protagonist, Maddie, and her friends (the Girlz) take front and center in this book in the series. When one of the group gets a blast from their past, and a sketchy and dangerous one at that, suspicions run high amongst the others. What does this person want and how do they best protect their friend? When murder involves them all, Maddie and her boyfriend, the local Sheriff, join forces to find the perpetrator. I love the support and loyalty that the Girlz offer each other and it was great to learn more about Maddie's grandfather. Her grandmother is an integral part of the story and offers love and comfort to all of them. I also really liked the development of a couple of other potential romances. I highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 22, 2019
Angel’s ex-husband, Brad, shows up after 2 years wanting to see Angel. What he does is end up bringing a whole lot of trouble and murder with him!
This is only the second book I’ve read by this author and I’m completely enjoying them! The characters are so much fun. I can’t wait for all the romances to finally come together! I’m going to be trying some of the recipes from the back of the book too. That’s a nice touch that some of the bakery themed books do. I’m glad that these don’t seem too hard. I’m not much of a cook or baker.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is only the second book I’ve read by this author and I’m completely enjoying them! The characters are so much fun. I can’t wait for all the romances to finally come together! I’m going to be trying some of the recipes from the back of the book too. That’s a nice touch that some of the bakery themed books do. I’m glad that these don’t seem too hard. I’m not much of a cook or baker.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2019
Meghan was just finally getting over one mystery.......but another one? Please someone Stop the carousel! To stop the insanity, of it all. Now up to her neck in another murder mystery of Lorie's mean scary uncle. With Lorie's witch of an aunt harassing them too. What's a girl to do?.......Well solve the mystery! By finding the real killer who did this wicked deed. Especially before they murder her. A good mystery to read. Pick up a copy and read it for yourself.
Debra H.
Debra H.
September 12, 2019
Maddie has gotten herself involved in some mysteries before, much to Ethan’s chagrin, but this time danger is close to home. Friends and family alike are at risk and Maddie wants to find the answers. The characters in the Maple Lane Mysteries are so well developed and likable, that Doughnuts and Disaster was a page turner for me. I recommend the entire series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2019
Doughnuts and Disaster is a really fun mystery. Maddie, Gran, the Girlz, Ethan and Big Red are once again caught up in murder. I love the characters in this series of mysteries. As usual, the plot is twisty with several suspects and various motives. Will they apprehend the murderer before anyone else is hurt? You need to read this book to find out.
October 27, 2019
It is difficult not to love this cozy mystery! The characters are fantastic. I just love Angel and Maddie. This will keep you guessing to the end and please the doughnut and cat lover!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2019
For such a small town Maple Falls sure has more than it's share of murder!
Maddie gets involved when Angel's past comes calling.
A well written story line
Maddie gets involved when Angel's past comes calling.
A well written story line
March 31, 2021
Review of Books 1-3:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including Apple Pie and Arsenic, Bagels and Blackmail, and Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
**Apple Pie and Arsenic:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the late Spring set Apple Pie and Arsenic by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
An easy flowing, action and drama packed story with a good introduction to the people of Maple Falls, Oregon's relationships, jealousy, and friendships. Contains a conniving grandmother and the spark of a second chance at love romance.
On the cusp of opening up her dream bakery in New York with her best friend Camille, a cryptic call from her grandmother brings 28 year old Maddie Flynn home to small town Maple Falls, Oregon to help her 70 year old English born grandmother move from their family home. But, she soon finds herself the target of a stalker and one of her best friends, Mayor Denise, dead by her jeep thrusting Maddie into a dangerous plot to clear her name and to protect her friends including her ex-boyfriend Sheriff Ethan Tanner while trying to avoid becoming the next victim.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
** Bagels and Blackmail:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Summer set Bagels and Blackmail by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Drama packed with wonderful characters, hints at a few romances and a touch of violence. This cozy mystery contains a good recap of book one , Maddie's hiring Luke, the sinister plots behind Maple Falls politics and the dark undertones of abuse, murder and petnapping.
As Maddie's feelings for Ethan deepening and the Girlz enjoy their weekly cooking classes, Maddie finds herself searching for the missing Big Red and the victim of a petnapping scheme.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
**Cookies and Chaos:
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Fall set Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Maddie's systematic sleuthing, murder and the suspense of an art ring fill the pages of this cozy mystery filled with Maddie's expanding bakery business, her homey interactions with staff and good friends, her slowly blossoming romance with Sheriff Ethan as well as the well meaning matchmaking efforts of the residents of Maple Falls.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
Review Book 4:
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the early winter set novel Doughnuts and Disaster: A Maple Lane Cozy Mystery book 4 and by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
A drama packed and suspenseful novel centered mainly around the murder mystery but contains a heartwarming ending.
When Angel's abusive ex Brad comes back to town seeking help, the Girlz weekend at the cabin is ruined thrusting them into the midst of another multiple murder mystery where Brad and his twin Caleb are the prime suspects.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including Apple Pie and Arsenic, Bagels and Blackmail, and Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
**Apple Pie and Arsenic:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the late Spring set Apple Pie and Arsenic by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
An easy flowing, action and drama packed story with a good introduction to the people of Maple Falls, Oregon's relationships, jealousy, and friendships. Contains a conniving grandmother and the spark of a second chance at love romance.
On the cusp of opening up her dream bakery in New York with her best friend Camille, a cryptic call from her grandmother brings 28 year old Maddie Flynn home to small town Maple Falls, Oregon to help her 70 year old English born grandmother move from their family home. But, she soon finds herself the target of a stalker and one of her best friends, Mayor Denise, dead by her jeep thrusting Maddie into a dangerous plot to clear her name and to protect her friends including her ex-boyfriend Sheriff Ethan Tanner while trying to avoid becoming the next victim.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
** Bagels and Blackmail:
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Summer set Bagels and Blackmail by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Drama packed with wonderful characters, hints at a few romances and a touch of violence. This cozy mystery contains a good recap of book one , Maddie's hiring Luke, the sinister plots behind Maple Falls politics and the dark undertones of abuse, murder and petnapping.
As Maddie's feelings for Ethan deepening and the Girlz enjoy their weekly cooking classes, Maddie finds herself searching for the missing Big Red and the victim of a petnapping scheme.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
**Cookies and Chaos:
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries books 1-3 including the Fall set Cookies and Chaos by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
Maddie's systematic sleuthing, murder and the suspense of an art ring fill the pages of this cozy mystery filled with Maddie's expanding bakery business, her homey interactions with staff and good friends, her slowly blossoming romance with Sheriff Ethan as well as the well meaning matchmaking efforts of the residents of Maple Falls.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
Review Book 4:
3 stars
I purchased a copy of the early winter set novel Doughnuts and Disaster: A Maple Lane Cozy Mystery book 4 and by C.A. Phipps and this review was given freely.
A drama packed and suspenseful novel centered mainly around the murder mystery but contains a heartwarming ending.
When Angel's abusive ex Brad comes back to town seeking help, the Girlz weekend at the cabin is ruined thrusting them into the midst of another multiple murder mystery where Brad and his twin Caleb are the prime suspects.
Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in chronological order.
June 9, 2025
Maddie is as delicious as her foodie delights. She is a charming Nextdoor girl bakery owner type of gal AND a local sleuth! (Somehow I want to cast her and her friends and family in a hallmarkesque cozy mystery movie!!)
She serves up delicious treats and solves crimes with her girlz, and her adorable grandmother, and is ferociously loyal when one of her own is in danger. And of course felines rule supreme with her Big Red on patrol, which I LOVE! This time it is Maddie’s sweet friend Angel, who owns the local hair salon, in danger from an a brutal ex-husband, and Maddie and her gal pals are having none of that.
A great deal of hometown charm is evident, particularly with the local sheriff as Maddie’s sweetheart as a prominent couple. When the villain is revealed and eventually captured, it is quite satisfying. Well written, the novel features an excellent supporting cast of characters and is an absolutely worthwhile read
She serves up delicious treats and solves crimes with her girlz, and her adorable grandmother, and is ferociously loyal when one of her own is in danger. And of course felines rule supreme with her Big Red on patrol, which I LOVE! This time it is Maddie’s sweet friend Angel, who owns the local hair salon, in danger from an a brutal ex-husband, and Maddie and her gal pals are having none of that.
A great deal of hometown charm is evident, particularly with the local sheriff as Maddie’s sweetheart as a prominent couple. When the villain is revealed and eventually captured, it is quite satisfying. Well written, the novel features an excellent supporting cast of characters and is an absolutely worthwhile read
October 21, 2025
Madeline - Maddie Flynn, Maple Falls;
Angel - best friend, Brad, her ex-husband, Caleb, Brad's twin;
Gran
Interns - Luke Chisolm and Laura;
Girlz - Suzy, Laura, Maddie, Angel, Girlz went to the cabin for the weekend, taking a walk when they heard a gunshot, Bernie's cabin, Magnus Tuft was found dead from gun shot, Bernie also does yard work and drives a taxi;
Ethan Tanner - sheriff, Maddie's boyfriend;
Big Red - cat;
Beth - works for Angel, babysits the twins;
Cooking class: Layla Dixon, Ethan's sister, (twin boys, age 10,Jesse and James), Noah Jackson, Chris Jamieson, Mavis Anderson, Nora Beatty & Mayor Irene Fitzgibbons;
Brad escapes from protective custody;
Maddie, Suzy & Laura went searching and were CAPTURED by Caleb and Ambrose, able to get out of cave but were caught again in the cabin....able to get themselves free.
Deputy Neilson, bad cop.....Dective Steve Jones likes Angel;
Angel - best friend, Brad, her ex-husband, Caleb, Brad's twin;
Gran
Interns - Luke Chisolm and Laura;
Girlz - Suzy, Laura, Maddie, Angel, Girlz went to the cabin for the weekend, taking a walk when they heard a gunshot, Bernie's cabin, Magnus Tuft was found dead from gun shot, Bernie also does yard work and drives a taxi;
Ethan Tanner - sheriff, Maddie's boyfriend;
Big Red - cat;
Beth - works for Angel, babysits the twins;
Cooking class: Layla Dixon, Ethan's sister, (twin boys, age 10,Jesse and James), Noah Jackson, Chris Jamieson, Mavis Anderson, Nora Beatty & Mayor Irene Fitzgibbons;
Brad escapes from protective custody;
Maddie, Suzy & Laura went searching and were CAPTURED by Caleb and Ambrose, able to get out of cave but were caught again in the cabin....able to get themselves free.
Deputy Neilson, bad cop.....Dective Steve Jones likes Angel;
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2023
Maddie and the Girlz investigate another murder!
Maddie and her friends (Angel, Suzy, and Laura) dubbed the Girlz by Gran and the town of Maple falls, decide to go to Grandads cabin for the weekend expecting to have a nice time together. What they didn’t expect was to discover a man shot to death and call Sheriff Ethan, Maddie’s boyfriend to join them! Things get more complicated when Angel’s ex, Brad, shows up with a connection to the dead guy, a fellow jock from his HS days. I love these characters, including Maddie’s Gran and her cat, Big Red. Such a fun group, with very different personalities. I received a free copy of this book and write this review voluntarily.
Maddie and her friends (Angel, Suzy, and Laura) dubbed the Girlz by Gran and the town of Maple falls, decide to go to Grandads cabin for the weekend expecting to have a nice time together. What they didn’t expect was to discover a man shot to death and call Sheriff Ethan, Maddie’s boyfriend to join them! Things get more complicated when Angel’s ex, Brad, shows up with a connection to the dead guy, a fellow jock from his HS days. I love these characters, including Maddie’s Gran and her cat, Big Red. Such a fun group, with very different personalities. I received a free copy of this book and write this review voluntarily.
May 30, 2025
This book was alright - it was entertaining and very clean (no bad words or sex scenes) which I appreciated. At first, I didn't really like the way it was written - it seemed almost too basic or straight forward; but I kept reading. I didn't like how she called her group of friends "Girlz" - something about that just seemed too childish to me. But overall, it did have a plot and the characters were alright. I wouldn't really recommend this book or this author but overall, it was okay.
November 15, 2020
What happens when Angel’s ex returns
Maddie and the Girlz get caught up in the drama surrounding the return of Angels ex and his request for help. They work out a plan to help him prove that he is innocent. They narrowly escape with their lives. Cannot wait for more books I this series...they are great.
Maddie and the Girlz get caught up in the drama surrounding the return of Angels ex and his request for help. They work out a plan to help him prove that he is innocent. They narrowly escape with their lives. Cannot wait for more books I this series...they are great.
March 30, 2022
I love this series! I'm binging on it now! The characters are interesting, funny, intelligent and so much fun! Big Red the cat is fabulous!! They are twisty murder mysteries, cozy, but always surprising as to who done it!! Relationships are sweet and complicated...love the characters and can't wait to read the next one!
June 7, 2020
Murder and mystery
This book is full of mysteries and friendships and new couples. I enjoyed this book and found it hard to put down. Very interesting that the grandparents were the people who stepped up when needed!!
This book is full of mysteries and friendships and new couples. I enjoyed this book and found it hard to put down. Very interesting that the grandparents were the people who stepped up when needed!!
September 27, 2021
Maple Lane 4
This is a decidedly different story where three ladies are captured because they know way too much! While they are trying to help another friend they get into a disastrous situation but fight their way out!!! Great reading
This is a decidedly different story where three ladies are captured because they know way too much! While they are trying to help another friend they get into a disastrous situation but fight their way out!!! Great reading
April 1, 2022
Love this book.
I love this series and this book. I couldn't put it down. I have come to love the people of Maple Falls. I can't wait for the next book. I will be recommending it to all my friends.
I love this series and this book. I couldn't put it down. I have come to love the people of Maple Falls. I can't wait for the next book. I will be recommending it to all my friends.
November 28, 2025
Outstandingly good fun
Absolutely great fun, love the girlz and their ever increasing pose of police officers. Great mystery and just such great characters, the author makes you feel included like your part of the group
Absolutely great fun, love the girlz and their ever increasing pose of police officers. Great mystery and just such great characters, the author makes you feel included like your part of the group
March 23, 2026
Crafty fun read
Donuts and Disaster was a fun read. Phipps tells a mystery with twists and turns, keeping the reader interested to see the next step.
Maddie is by nature very curious. Each book has her up to her eyeballs in someone's devious behavior.
Donuts and Disaster was a fun read. Phipps tells a mystery with twists and turns, keeping the reader interested to see the next step.
Maddie is by nature very curious. Each book has her up to her eyeballs in someone's devious behavior.
October 20, 2021
Good series
Enjoyable, plenty of action, humor and friends taking care of each other. It would be great to have a group of friends like the Girlz
Enjoyable, plenty of action, humor and friends taking care of each other. It would be great to have a group of friends like the Girlz
March 25, 2023
Enjoyed this book, the storyline was different and a compelling read. Well written and looking forward to the next one in the series.
April 11, 2023
another great book
I feel like I say the same things each time. I do not like to give away plots…..so it was a good book with intrigue and romance and I can’t wait for the next one
I feel like I say the same things each time. I do not like to give away plots…..so it was a good book with intrigue and romance and I can’t wait for the next one
July 28, 2023
Good series. Love those donuts
July 31, 2023
A very charming mystery! Highly recommended!
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