Maymee Bell is the author of Cake and Punishment. This is the first book in the Southern Cake Baker Mystery series. Maymee Bell is the pen name of USA Today Bestselling author Tonya Kappes. She lives in Kentucky with her family and her two schnauzers. She likes strong coffee, slow-country days, and fresh-baked cookies – but she like telling stores best of all.
Maymee, aka Tonya, was approached by her agent with the idea for this series. When asked if she were addressing any issues with the books, she said, “I only want readers to use my books as an escape. Nothing more, nothing less.”
Tonya also said, “Every time I sit down to write a book, I keep my readers in mind and how much I know they love the characters I write and connection. I want to keep that for them.”
As part of her research for this series, Tonya decided she needed some first-hand experience with cake decorating. “I actually took a baking and cake decorating class while working on the series so I could really get the details right. The teacher told me that no one in her 30 years of teaching has ever failed making icing leaves, but I was the first. Hahhaa!”
Tonya added that she wants readers to “stalk her” everywhere. “I do a lot of fun stuff and giveaways all week long!” Learn more about Tonya on her website at www.tonyakappes.com.
Paula Jacobson says
I love all of your books, Tonya. They always make me laugh.
Ginger Heruska says
Love the article and I’m looking forward to the book.
Alisha Collins says
Love Tonya’s books so I can’t wait on this one!
Kathleen Kendler says
Great article!
Tonya Kappes says
Thank you!! xoxoox