The Baking Games

By: Rachel Hanna

Narrated by: Anne-Michael Smith

Savannah Greene enters The Baking Games with a clear goal: win the $200,000 prize and secure her sister’s future. But her plan quickly crumbles when she discovers the competition includes her ex-boyfriend, Connor, who still harbors a grudge, and Rhett Jennings, her biggest rival from culinary school.

Thrown together in a luxurious mansion under the constant gaze of cameras, Savannah finds herself part of an unexpected plot twist—a fake relationship with Rhett to boost their popularity with viewers. As they navigate this pretend romance, the lines between reality and performance blur. Rhett's unexpected defense against Connor's sabotage stirs doubts about his true intentions. Is his growing warmth genuine, or just another strategy to win?

With each challenge, Savannah's resolve is tested not just by her baking skills but also by the tangled web of feelings developing around her. Rhett's consistent support and moments of vulnerability make her question if there’s more to their connection than just the game. As the competition intensifies, so does the relationship, pushing Savannah to reconsider what she truly desires.

Amidst the strategic alliances and fake romances crafted for viewer ratings, Savannah forges a genuine bond with Maggie, a 65-year-old contestant who becomes like the mother she never had. Maggie's wisdom and warmth offer a haven from the cutthroat atmosphere, grounding Savannah as she navigates the murky waters of trust within the mansion.

As the grand finale looms, Savannah must decide if she’s willing to risk her heart along with her culinary dreams. Caught between a potential new love and the prize that promises a better future for her sister, Savannah faces a choice that could change everything. Is her connection with Rhett just a well-crafted façade, or could it be the most authentic thing she's ever baked up?

©2024 Rachel Hanna (P)2024 Rachel Hanna

Baking Games is top notch

What a fun read and full of surprises. Great laughter, touching moments, and I wanted to slap a couple myself. Definitely a new style for Rachel Hanna, but it’s just perfect. I really enjoyed the book. I’m sorry it’s not a series.

Narration made this a difficult story to follow

The single narrator did not change tone or voices at all between the main male and female characters, making it very difficult to tell who was speaking. I spent far too much time trying to figure out whose sentiment I was listening to. The characters were fairly shallow and predictable. As a baker myself, I had high hopes for the premise, but found it to be a bit unrealistic. I typically enjoy this author, but did not find this to be one of her best works.

baking book

if you enjoy baking and reality shows about food, you will like this book. very predictable, but fun listen

Basically a Hallmark movie in book form.

It bothered me that they only had one narrator for both parts, got really confusing to try to remember whose point of view it was sometimes. Also, the narrator sounded kinda AI at times, due to lack of emotion. The story was ok, cute and predictable. I appreciated it wasn't spicy though.

This is in my top three favorite books of 2025

This story is well written. The story line is realistic with characters that are believable. The author brings out emotions and character growth, that left me unable to stop listening to it.