Blurb: Elodie has big dreams for her little cake shop, so when a perfect bigger unit becomes vacant, she’s excited to finally expand. Except it turns out the space has already been snatched up – and by a fitness-obsessed gym bro who hates carbs and sugar!
But when a local influencer offers her the opportunity to bake for a big celebrity wedding, Elodie can’t believe her luck. Until she finds out that her new carb-hating nemesis, Mal, has been hired to cater the same event.
The two rivals have to put their personal feelings aside to work together to pull off the wedding of the year – and they only have two months to do it! But will they be able to resist trying to kill each other, or will sparks – and cupcakes – fly in the heat of the moment?
Review: Gosh, this book is so cosy! A read curl-up-on-the-sofa read. Every character is well-drawn – some annoyingly so, like Elodie’s brother – and relatable. And it’s a true rivals-to-lovers story where the main characters strongly dislike each other at first!
That makes what is a slow-burn romance – mind the cakes – very investing. You’re pulled along by Elodie and Mal’s experiences and emotions, both towards their businesses and each other. How their families affect their lives. How misunderstandings can snowball.
This is a closed-door romance, but I did get warm at their kisses. Oof, how I was kept waiting for that first one! Would have liked a little more second base perhaps, but that’s me and I don’t so much have my doors open as off the hinges! As it is, the romance side of things is very satisfying indeed.
Overall, The Winner Bakes It All made me laugh and cry, and kept me hooked until the end. And you can read an epilogue if you sign up to Jeev’s newsletter.
Rating: ★★★★☆