A Manhattan bakery. A deadly competition. And a murder too close for comfort. When a body literally drops at her feet, baker Maddie Flynn knows this isn't a tragic accident-it's murder. With her sharp instincts, a dash of courage, and a few secret skills up her sleeve, she's determined to uncover the truth. But danger is rising fast. A furious baking contestant, a baffling kidnapping, and a crime that refuses to add up put Maddie right in the crosshairs of a killer who won't hesitate to strike again. Even Big Red, her oversized Maine Coon with an uncanny nose for trouble, is restless. And if Maddie doesn't solve the case soon, she might be the next victim on the menu. 5* "This story was a quick, easy read with a good pace, crime with a taciturn police detective trying to hold Maddie in check, and a baking competition that turns triumph to terror! Big Red, Maddie's Maine Coon cat companion, is a mighty protector prowling the streets of NYC and a key player. I love a cozy with a sassy pet." A Manhattan bakery. A deadly competition. And a murder too close for comfort. When a body literally drops at her feet, baker Maddie Flynn knows this isn't a tragic accident—it's murder. With her sharp instincts, a dash of courage, and a few secret skills up her sleeve, she's determined to uncover the truth. But danger is rising fast. A furious baking contestant, a baffling kidnapping, and a crime that refuses to add up put Maddie right in the crosshairs of a killer who won't hesitate to strike again. Even Big Red, her oversized Maine Coon with an uncanny nose for trouble, is restless. And if Maddie doesn't solve the case soon, she might be the next victim on the menu. The Maple Lane Mysteries blend baking, small-town sleuthing, and cat-loving charm—perfect for fans of Murder, She Wrote , culinary cozies, and whisker-twitching feline sidekicks. Every Maple Lane Mystery comes with a delicious recipe you can bake at home! C. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. An empty-nester, Cheryl lives in a small town with her wonderful husband, 'himself'. Her extended family keeps her busy and when she's not writing, there is just enough space for a crazy mixed-breed dog who stole her heart! She enjoys spending time with family, baking, and her quest for the perfect latte.