3.75/5

Cosy. Autumnal. Cutesy. Cheesy. Friends to lovers. Wholesome.

This is going to be the perfect autumny read this year. All the food in this book had my stomach growling, I could've devoured it all tbh. The baby dragons were cute. The story was fun, although towards the end it did feel a little rushed, and conversations felt a little more teenager than adults (but that's just my opinion). I think people are gonna love this book.

I thought the romance was cute, and Theo getting jealous had me blushing (oops). I loved the characters new and returning. Lavinia's family are the sweetest. The settings are cosy and you just want them to be real so you can try all the delicious treats and drinks.

I read this in one sitting too. So get your blankets, reading areas and drinking mugs prepared for August for a wholesome, autumnal, romantic read.

I loved this!! Loved diving back into Starshine Valley and getting to see familiar and new characters. I loved Theo and Lavinia’s relationship and I like how their story and dynamics were different to the first book.

Thank you NetGalley and Avonbooks for the early copy of The Baby Dragon Bakery!

This book follows on from the previous book baby dragon cafe and let me tell you this can only be described as warm chai latte in a mug so cosy and heartwarming -like you've wrapped a story in a soft blanket and handed it to someone on a rainy afternoon.

It follows the relationship between Theo and Lavinia will they won’t they vibes. I loved reading about their friendship, and how they navigated this in the story for something more. This book was super cute but also explored family dynamics, acceptance and feeling worthy. I especially loved all the South Asian elements in this book to the names of the pastries and characters.

#thebabydragonclub

I love being part of The Baby Dragon Club!

Thank you so much for the ARC! I think I loved this even more than book one and I loved that a lot! I love how Starshine Valley is such a friendly place, where everyone helps each other. I love how compassionate Suki is with Theo. Theo is a cutie who I think is really relatable, he has low self esteem because of his parents and I really feel for him to have parents like his. I also really like how Lavinia's parents have taken in Theo as their own over the years.

I love how Lavinia and Theo are with each other, friends from a young age, always being there for each other and picking each other up when needed. It's nice to have someone to confide in, tell everything to and be themselves with. I love this for them!

I'm super excited to see where this series goes in book three and I love the characters so will definitely read! The dragons are still cute and they are growing up and becoming more mischievous. I like that Saphira and Aidan are still in this book too, a good friendship circle.

A huge thank you to Avon Books and NetGalley for this EARC, I absolutely adored The Baby Dragon Bakery!

A cosy romance full of twists, turns and dragons!
I loved the journey through Lavinia and Theo’s friendship/relationship and actually preferred this book to the first as the characters felt much deeper and more padded out, although the ending was as I expected, it was never dull or predictable as it followed the two main characters and their growth through the book.
Can’t wait to read the third instalment!

4.5 ⭐️

First of all, let's me be clear here: I'm a member of the Baby Dragon Club!The Baby Dragon Bakery is the sequel to the bestselling The Baby Dragon Cafe and although reading the previous novel is not at all required in order to enjoy Bakery, I'd suggest that you do so, to enjoy the full creation of the Starshone Valley and all of its inhabitants. Both books are slow-burn romances and there are no villains in these relationships, just characters that you will love and be cheering on. As with Cafe, The Baby Dragon Bakery is an absolutely scrumptious tale of love, friendship and believing in yourself and true love. And of course, with lots of little dragons and the odd, baby griffin and chimera!
I look forward to returning to the joyful, positive world of Saphira, Aiden,, Sparky and now Lavinia and Theo and their friends.
Oh and erm any chance of sharing some of Theo's amazing sounding recipes?? Pretty please!!

This book was the perfect sequel to The Baby Dragon Cafe! I absolutely loved the tension and yearning between Theo and Lavinia, the flashbacks to childhood memories of them two really were the best and helped develop the reader understand their relationship better!

I love and appreciate the little details of South Asian culture slipped into this book, from the amazing food descriptions to the mother daughter relationship between Lavinia and Beena - (the hair oiling scene made my heart melt)!

At times I did feel that conversations could be more developed between Theo and Lavinia, with the writing style being a little simplistic. In addition, the ending was rushed and I felt as though issues were being addressed on a surface level basis.

But I still really enjoyed this book! If you’re looking for a cosy book that feels like a warm hug, then look no further. I’m excited to read about the next characters storyline in Sunshine Valley!

Thank you to Avon Books UK for the ARC and for letting me be part of The Baby Dragon Club!

I was a huge fan of the first book, and couldn’t wait to read Lavinia and Theo’s story. This is the second book set in Starshjne Valley, and although the first book isn’t necessary to understand and enjoy this book, I recommend you read it!

This was such a cute, cosy autumnal read. As always, I loved the dragons (I want one so badly). Theo and Lavinia friendship was beautiful, and I enjoyed learning more about them, their passions and their families too. I loved the relationship Lavinia had with her family!! I’m a massive fan of the friends to lovers trope

A very easy to read fast paced book that you don’t want to miss out on!!

I cannot wait for the next book 🐉

Thank you NetGalley and Avonbooks for the early copy of The Baby Dragon Bakery!

A warm, sweet friends-to-lovers story wrapped in autumn vibes and sprinkled with dragons. The Baby Dragon Bakery is the perfect comfort read. Lavinia and Theo’s journey from friendship to love is heartfelt, emotional, and just the right amount of magical. 🐉💛

This is the sequel to Baby Dragon Café. The first book was so charming, and it's not so say that this one disappointed but it wasn't focused that much on the baby dragons as the first book. This story was much more focused on the main couple. The story focuses on how Lavinia and Theo's relationship is evolving from friends to love interests and during this transition there's a lot of miscommunication that brings challenges along the way. That awkward transition from friends to love interests is funny, and the authors builds a good tension. Overall It's just a heartwarming, cozy fantasy, slowburn romance story.

Book Review: The Baby Dragon Bakery by A. T. Qureshi
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

If you’re a fan of cozy fantasy, romance, and a sprinkle of magic, The Baby Dragon Bakery is an absolute treat that will leave you craving more. This enchanting sequel to The Baby Dragon Cafe continues the delightful story of Lavinia, a magical animal vet-in-training, and her best friend-turned-love-interest, Theo, the local baker with a mysterious streak.

Set in a whimsical small town where dragons (yes, baby dragons!) and magic are as commonplace as a morning cup of tea, The Baby Dragon Bakery blends the sweetness of romance with the warmth of fantasy. Lavinia has everything a girl could want: a loving family, a dream career, and a job at the charming Baby Dragon Cafe. But what she doesn’t have is Theo—the one person who’s always been by her side. Their friendship has always been effortless, but when Lavinia finally gathers the courage to confess her feelings, Theo pulls away, leaving her heartbroken and unsure of where their relationship stands.

What follows is a beautifully crafted journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the slow burn of friends-to-lovers romance. Qureshi’s writing is as warm and inviting as the magical bakery at the heart of the story. The dual POVs allow readers to experience both Lavinia and Theo’s emotions, making the buildup to their inevitable romance feel authentic and satisfying.

The setting is just as magical as the characters. The Baby Dragon Cafe, with its adorable pet dragon and charming atmosphere, feels like a character in itself, creating a cozy, inviting world that’s easy to get lost in. The world-building is rich, but not overwhelming—just enough to make the magic feel real and grounded in this small town.

As for the characters, Lavinia and Theo are a joy to root for. Lavinia is strong, independent, and full of heart, while Theo is the perfect combination of sweet and a bit complicated. Watching them navigate the awkwardness of shifting from friends to something more is both hilarious and heartwarming. The tension between them is palpable, and when they finally work through their issues, it feels like the most rewarding payoff.

The romance is heartwarming, and the slow-burn nature of their relationship will have you cheering for them from the very first page. The book also excels in its portrayal of their supportive friendships and their love for their magical community. It's cozy, sweet, and utterly addictive. The "low spice" element means that the focus is more on emotional connection than physical attraction, which works perfectly for this kind of story.

If you're looking for a book that combines the comfort of a small-town romance with a bit of magic, The Baby Dragon Bakery is exactly what you need. Whether you're a fan of cozy fantasy, sweet romances, or just need a feel-good story to escape into, this book checks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts: This book is a delightful, heartwarming addition to the Baby Dragon series, and I can’t wait for what’s next! With its charming characters, magical world, and irresistible romance, The Baby Dragon Bakery is an absolute must-read for fans of friends-to-lovers tropes and cozy fantasy.

Another lovely book from this author.
This is the second in this series and focuses on Lavinia and Theo, but we still get to see our favourites from the first book.
As best friends, these two tell each other everything, but now they are grown up and more mature, is there maybe something a little more between them?
As they navigate life’s twists and turns they each misunderstand each other’s intentions and end up suffering a lot of miscommunication! At time I did feel like shouting and one or other of them to see sense!!

The characters are all lovely and well developed, as is the setting and world around them.

I must admit I would have liked a little more of the dragons, but the focus is very much on our main characters.

I definitely enjoyed getting lost in this world again, so if you like a cosy, romance, with some sweet dragons along for the ride, this one is for you!

Having been a veterinary nurse myself, I loved that Lavinia was training to work with all the mythical creatures.

I feel the author has really upped her game with this one, the first was well written, but this just seemed even better.

All in all a great read. 4.5 stars

Absolutely loved this book from start to finish, the minute I started reading it I just couldn’t stop! The relationship developing between Lavinia and Theo was so lovely and I really felt myself loving both characters journeys.

If you are looking for the ultimate cozy read I definitely recommend this!

Thank you to Avonbooks for the early ARC. I loved this book as much as the first however, I did find some parts repetitive. I loved the characters, Lavinia and Theo and it was great to go back in their childhood to see how they became close. It was also good to continue with the rest of the characters developments.

The dragons are still lovable and mischievous, and love that Saph, Aiden and Sparky are a little family unit now.

I’d love to see more about Saph becoming a dragon rider, and hope to see more live develop in book 3.

A cosy series which will have you smiling throughout.

If you’re looking for a cosy, sweet, small town romance set in a world where dragons exist - this will be perfect for you :)

This is purely a romance story between two people, their individual struggles, hopes and dreams. It is very light-hearted, really! I read this book in just under three days - quick and easy read!

Some themes: small town, cosy romance, childhood best friends, opposite family trope, bakery (and mentions of sooo many tasty treats!), dragons in a modern setting

If you’re looking for a heavy fantasy book - this won’t be for you. The dragons are mentioned, but not much other lore is revealed unlike really deep fantasy novels, so keep that in mind!

Spice level: 🌶️/5 - mentions of it, slight descriptions, but not a lot and it doesn’t go into detail :)

The only reason it was a 4/5 personally was because there were moments of the miscommunication trope, which could be easily avoided since they were adults, BUT this could still be your next 5/5 read!

Thank you to Avon Books UK for this cosy EARC, I loved every second I spent with it 🥰

First, thank you so much for the eArc and for being a prestige member of The Baby Dragon Club 🤭🤎

"If he lived a hundred lives, he'd find her in every one; the way sailors unerringly found the North Star in the night sky no matter the century."

GENRE: Cozy Fantasy
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
FORMAT: eBook Arc

Would I recommend to others?: YES! This book is a friendship to lovers trope with found family, cozy fantasy and romance. It is about finding love in your favourite person and loving them just the way they are. It is about seeing your favourite person as the perfect person in the world and not wanting to change anything about them.

Long Review:
The Baby Dragon Bakery is book two in The Baby Dragon series and I know I have yet to write my book one review but in summary: I LOVED it, finished it in 24 hours and would have been less if I didnt have to deal with life and responsibilities

Book Two or The Baby Dragon Bakery was just as GOOD and I LOVED it too. I loved getting to go through the experience with Theo and Lavinia, watching their friends-to-lovers trope thrive and oh boy, did Aamna take us on an adventure and a roller coaster hahah

This book is perfect for Autumn or Fall theme, which is around when it will be released and I think it will be a new Cozy Fantasy, Romantic Comedy Favourite:
"She loved the cafe's fall menu and all the fall flavours."

Lavinia definitely gets a lot of character development and we see her struggle with relationships, dealing with the fact that she may have to live her adult life alone, with no partner like she grew up seeing with her family. Not only that, she has enforced a timeline on finding a partner in order to meet someone and embrace the same life her parents have built for each other:
"In her mind, because Lavinia wanted a love lik her parents', she needed to follow a similar timeline."
"She loved love! Even so, loneliness echoed through her, a dull ache. She yearned for that desperately."

On the opposite end, we have Theo, who grew up alone with his parents never truly paying attention to him and always making him feel like he was the problem. He was put in a terrible position and ultimately, his parents made him feel like he was unwanted and they did not embrace nor love him as parents should. Throughout the story, Theo admires Lavinia and her positivity and it is like she is his little sunshine:
"In a way, he admired how hopeful she was, the positive outlook she had. It was a beautiful way to look at the world. He could be too pessimistic; he sometimes wished he had more wonder."
"He knew if he fell, there would be no one there to catch him, so he was always twice as careful. What if - in being so careful - he had missed his chance?"

Lavinia & Theo met when they were young and have built a friendship that has them together and keeps them going. Theo is a part of Lavinia's family and is just as close to her parents and brother. Together, they have found love, friendship and more in each other:
"It was like he was a part of her, and every time he was gone, there was an undeniable sense of something missing, but whenever he was with her again, everything felt right, how it was supposed to be."

Aamna meshes two people who grew up in different environment: one in an environment that enriched her, allowed her to become herself and provided her with examples of how to grow. However, Lavinia maintains her humanity because no matter how perfect your environment is, you are always going to have insecurities and we see these insecurities seep into her friendship & then relationship with Theo. On the contrary, you have Theo, who grew up in an environment that was toxic and placed doubt, pressure and lack of self confidence in him. Because of this, he appreciates Lavinia even more; however, he lacks the confidence to believe that he is right for her and ENOUGH for her.

And them coming together? The slow yearning, the roller coaster that Aamna takes us on to get these best friends into lovers was a whole emotional ride:
He loved her. He loved her so much that it physically hurt. There was no denying it or running from it."
"She was all he thought about, every moment of every day. He wanted to be around her constantly , and it was obvious, so glaringly obvious that he was in lover with her. He knew that these feelings had been deep inside him for a long time, taking root and growing, and now he was overcome by them."
"She was in lover with her best friend and everyone knew but him."

Its the way Lavinia converts Theo into a destiney, fate beliver:
"He had never believed in things like fate or being written in the stars before, but now, there was no doubt in hismind that there were invisible strings at work. How else could he have gotten so lucky to have her in his life? It was nothing short of a miracle."

And the way they completed each other? The way they shielded each other from other insecurities and filling in the gaps only life leaves in you:
"It was liberating. She didn't need to pretend anything: to be mature or serious or toned down. She could be silly because that was how she had always been around him; he knew her. He knew her completely. There was nothing to worry about. She felt utterly loved."
"With her, he could be himself. Growing up, Theo never knew who he was because his family never liked who he was, so he always tried on different hats, trying to gain their approval (not that it ever worked.) But with Lavinia, he felt his truest self. He liked himself best when he was with her."

This is a beautiful story of insecurities, friendship, love and finding your destined person to make you a better person and I enjoyed the journey so much, I cannot wait for book three already!

Thank you to Avon Books, Aamna and Netgalley for this early eArc in exchange for my honest review. Please keep in mind that all the quotations are from an eArc and may not reflect the final book.

LOVED this.

Just as good as the first book.

The dragons still provide the cute factor and the rest of the cast provide the romance.

Brilliant.

A true comfort read.

This was the most perfect sequel to The Baby Dragon Cafe! I really did love it! This book follows Lavinia and Theo and their blossoming friendship that isn’t without its dramas. The characters felt perfectly flawed yet not unlikeable but with plenty of traits to love. Going into this I knew I would love it as I studied Bioveterinary Science at Uni and Lavinia is at Vet school but I didn’t expect to be kicking my little feet and squealing at how adorable this was throughout! Calahan is a perfect gentleman through this whole story and I did really like him! Overall a fabulous read with so much to love 💖

4.25⭐

Book 2 in The Baby Dragon series was just as cosy and joyful as book 1 and I really did enjoy it just not quite as much as the first book.

Again really likeable characters, appearances from great side characters and the cute baby dragons of course. Theo & Lavinia have been best friends since childhood recently Lavinia has developed a bit of a crush on Theo and after an almost kiss at Saphira & Aiden's engagement where Theo seems to pull away she realises she needs to focus on finding the one like her parents did by the time they were 24.

Theo & Lavinia were what i think of when a partner brings out the best in you and also supports you, there is quite a bit of miscommunication which is probably why it scored a little lower but it does keep you wanting to turn the page.

I cant wait for the next book as I have a feeling its a favorite enemies to lovers....

Thank you Avon Books & NetGalley.

This series has my whole heart loved the friends to lovers just wanting to keep reading wanting to know more about Theo and Lavinia, loved there vibe there passion.
Aamna Qureshi's writing is just amazing will definitely be reading more and more will be an auto buy author.
Just loved everything about it.

The Baby Dragon Bakery is a romance brimming with genuinely adorable best-friends-to-lovers moments, and exhausting miscommunication, with characters who feel frustratingly real - sometimes to the point of discomfort. Lavinia, 24, is convinced her romantic fate is sealed if she doesn’t find "the one" by December (cue the drama). Her internal panic and rigid deadline set off a cascade of questionable decisions and emotionally messy entanglements that carry through most of the book.

Lavinia’s dynamic with Theo, her best friend and crush, is a slow-burn of misread signals, deeply rooted insecurity, and self doubt, all of which make sense given the characters' backgrounds, but also drag out the plot and romance between them to a nearly maddening degree. I often found myself mentally yelling at Lavinia to connect the dots she's clearly capable of seeing (especially since she spots the exact same emotional cues in others but denies them when they come from Theo). Their friendship is absolute goals though, and my heart felt so full seeing Theo receive the kind of love and warmth from Lavinia's family that he never got from his own.

Calahan, who Lavinia sets her sights on to help her move on from her crush on Theo and meet her December deadline, is a standout in his own right. He's mature, steady, and thoughtful, handling the situation with Lavinia with dignity. He absolutely deserved so much better.

The pacing feels quite slow for most of the book, steadily building the tension, then ramps into full drama mode in the last 25%, with a flurry of breakups, reunions, and tantrums that land somewhere between emotionally raw and teen drama. If you’re looking for an angsty best friends to lovers romance with a side of delicious food descriptions and some serious emotional growing pains, this will definitely scratch the itch.

I love this cosy fantasy town!
I am not a huge fantasy reader but I really love this series so far, it is cute and cosy with light fantasy and I fell it has been the perfect stepping stone into the fantasy world for me.

The connection between the characters is unmissable, I love the tension and the build up and it has been nice getting to know these characters more as they were only side characters for the first book!

I cannot wait for more in this series.

This book is a cozy fantasy, romance novel and is the second book. I read this in less than 24 hours it was so good! I loved reading how the friendship to love developed between the main characters. We get to follow how they navigate their friendship and how they misunderstand each others intentions, sometimes you get so frustrated with them. I really liked how Saphira and Aidan were still in the story it kept it on theme from the first one.
The characters and world is so well-developed I cannot wait to see whats next. I would highly recommend this book to any romance or fantasy lover. 5⭐️


📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, A. T. Qureshi and Avon Books UK📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚

Yearning is back, and The Baby Dragon Bakery nailed it.

“Deep down, she always knew things happened for the best, but that didn't stop the reality from hurting.”


I would like to start with how Aamna Qureshi’s writing never disappoints; the baby dragon world is comforting on another level. I love the desi fusion desserts, the cute baby dragons and the amazing bond between the characters.

This book tells the story of best friends Lavinia, a vet-in-the-making, and Theo, a junior baker. Going from friends to lovers is obviously a very hard task; there are so many variables, and even a small mistake can end up in huge losses. Aamna takes all of those problems and writes some of the best angst out there. The angst was actually insane, and it was literally making me close the book and open it again and again.

Characters
Lavinia – packing it up coded
I absolutely love Lavinia. I love how passionate she is about being a vet. Her commitment to her dreams, the baby dragon cafe and her friends and family is admirable.

Theo – You’re On Your Own, Kid coded
I love reading about the desi fusion desserts Theo makes, even though I end up feeling very hungry. I loved how the author showed that you can switch career paths if it doesn’t work for you; that was an important reminder for me.

Romance (guilty as sin coded)
OH. MY. GOD. The angst was insane; I had goosebumps while reading this book. The cute fluff moments were absolutely incredible, and I loved Lavinia and Theo’s friendship. The little tidbits of their past totally made the book even better. I loved when Theo visited Lavinia’s house; those scenes were some of the best scenes in the book. Beena and Theo’s relationship was very heartwarming.

Saphira and Aiden's scenes were also adorable, and it was fun to see them from someone else’s point of view. The third book is going to be about Emmaline and Luke, and I really cannot wait!!

If you want to read a very low-stakes romance fantasy novel, you should pick this up.

The Baby Dragon Bakery is a adorable follow up from the Cafe. This one is Lavinia and Theo's story and the chemistry is electic. I loved seeing all the characters again and the gorgeous dragons. The cutest series ever!

This book is the perfect book to cozy up in front of the window while it's raining with a cup of coffee.
I love the low spice, it's a nice change of pace and it doesn't feel out of place!

The baby dragon cafe needs to be a real thing - all the food descriptions had me salivating!

I liked that there was a continuation in Saphira and Aidan's story alongside Lavinia and Theo's. Though the miscommunication and angst drove me crazy, it kept the friends to lovers trope very realistic.

A great addition to the series!

This was such a cute cozy book! It’s definitely a perfect friends to lovers romance with baby dragons! When I heard about this book from HCC, I just knew i needed to read it. The relationship between the main couple is amazing and finding love in your favourite person is exactly how my relationship with my partner went.
I cannot wait for this to come out to recommend to all the cozy readers who come in to the bookstore!

I read the first book based on a recommendation from my library so when I saw book 2 was available on NG, I applied immediately. This was SUCH a cute story!! I classify this as a sorbet of a romance. A little palate cleansing, low stakes, feel-good, sweet cute characters and sometimes you just need something like this. I loved the descriptions of the desserts (someone needs to make me a Ras malai tiramisu asap!) The characters are all very young (or I’m just too old) so every time Livinia mentioned her “deadline”, it reminded me of Charlotte Lucas in P&P. (SO much angst!)

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an e-ARC of this book!

Cute, cosy, heartwarming romance!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Baby Dragon Bakery is the second book in the Baby Dragon cafe series by Aamna Qureshi. This is a small town YA romance series with baby dragons, a delicious bakery and sweetheart characters set in Starshine valley.

Lavinia Williams (Saphira’s best friend) finally realises she has romantic feelings for Theo Noon, her childhood best friend. Lavinia is a hopeless romantic at heart and is longing for romance like her mother’s Beena and even the baby dragons knows she’s secretly in love with Theo. However Theo is dealing with his insecurities and low self-worth/esteem.

Lavinia and Theo’s romance has friendship, yearning and insecurities and will make you smile.

If you’re looking for escapism and a heartwarming romance story with a happy ending, sprinkle of magical baby dragons and a delicious mouth watering bakery then add this book to your TBR. The writing is quite simplistic and the story is predictable at times.

I really enjoyed the south asian fusion references to the desserts and food and the way the bakery was described was delicious.

Tropes
Small town
Dual POV
Best friends to lovers
Very low spice
Very light fantasy

If you’re a fan of friends-to-lovers, small-town magic, and baby dragons that steal the show, this book is an absolute must-read. Cozy, heartfelt, and brimming with charm—The Baby Dragon Bakery is a win!

This author is new to me, but I will be keeping an eye out for anything else they publish. I loved the story and the characters. The pacing of the story was great and the characters were relatable.

Such a lovely read. This is perfect for a cosy autumnal read with a warm drink.

A really heartwarming romance with super cute baby dragons involved and a few too many sweet treats!

The tension between the will they, won’t they is ideal for a classic romance book. This book is unique however with all the baby dragons flying around.
I did find it a little tricky getting to grips with all the different dragon types and their backgrounds but it made me just want to take more time reading the book.

It was really lovely following on from Saphira and Aidan’s story from the first book and is super satisfying as a reader when books do this.

Will definitely purchase when this is published!!

The Baby Dragon Café is a charming read for those who enjoy cozy fantasies with a touch of romance and magical creatures. It's a gentle journey into a world where dragons sip coffee and love brews slowly. If you're in the mood for a feel-good story that warms the heart, this book is worth a visit.

If I could describe this book in one word, it would be charming. I love cozy little witchy books and this pretty much fits that. It is the second of a series and I did feel a little lost at first reading the characters but eventually (and fairly quickly) was able to catch up. It was adorable.

Thanks Avon Books UK, AT Qureshi and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Baby Dragon Bakery by A.T. Qureshi is a cozy fantasy romance that continues the enchanting tale introduced in The Baby Dragon Café. its charming dual point-of-view narrative, captures the slow-burn romance between the protagonists. the the blend of magical elements and heartfelt emotions and inclusion of baby dragons adds a delightful touch. Fans of cozy fantasy and friends-to-lovers tropes will find The Baby Dragon Bakery a delightful read, offering a perfect mix of magic, romance, and charm.

A friends to lovers romance set in a bakery in this second book in the Baby Dragon series. We are taken on a romantic if rocky emotional journey with our two main characters, Lavinia and Theo. The character of Lavinia is very obsessed with being engaged by the same age as her mother for any relationship to be true love, which I thought was unrealistic, but then this is a fantasy set novel. There is tension throughout the book from the setbacks, twists, and turns of the plot as Lavinia and Theos mutual yearning and true feelings are hidden from each other. I loved the portrayal of the strong, caring friendship bond. A heartwarming, cosy, and feel-good story..

Such a sweet, sometimes frustrating, slow burn read! I loved being back in the valley with the familiar cast from the first book.

I enjoyed Lavinia'a story. Her university course piqued my interest and it was fun to get some more world building around the valley. I did get frustrated with her 'I must fall in love by this time" mindset. I feel like that made her character seem a lot younger than she actually is. Also her treatment of some people just to fulfil her ideals wasn't great! Coming across a little self centered rather than naive.

Overall a great installment in the series! Would love to see more of the other creatures in the next book.

CUTENESS OVERLOAD. This was just everything I want in a cozy type fantasy. I loved everything about this.

The Baby Dragon Bakery by A. T. Qureshi is a charming and cosy friends-to-lovers story set in the magical Starlight Valley. Lavinia is training to be a magical animal vet, working at the delightful Baby Dragon Cafe, and sharing a close friendship with Theo, the local baker. Their easy banter and long history make them seem destined for more, but when Lavinia finally takes a chance, Theo unexpectedly pulls away.

The dual points of view add depth and warmth to this story, making it an engaging and sweet read. I enjoyed the lovable characters and the enchanting setting, and the baby dragons add a fun and whimsical touch. It’s the kind of book that leaves you wishing you could visit Starlight Valley yourself.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

I still cannot believe I was sent a limited edition proof and have read this book four months early!! This was the cosiest book ever, just so lighthearted and warm, the perfect sequel to the baby dragon cafe and I absolutely cannot wait to return back to the world next year!!

Before I started the Baby Dragon Bakery, I went back and read the Baby Dragon Cafe. They both are very cute and cozy romance books with a bit of fantasy in them, but not overwhelming amounts. The Baby Dragon Cafe was good but I felt the second book was even better. I related more to these two characters and liked their development throughout the book. I thought the themes were also more relatable in this book with Theo and his family, as well as Lavinia's failed relationships. Really enjoyed this book!

A pure cosy hug in book form. If I could step into the pages I would!! I mean, dragons, coffee, romance. What more could I want?

I absolutely adored the first book so the second one was very much anticipated for me. And it was great! We briefly got to revisit the main characters from the first book before our new main characters took centre stage as we read their story develop.

A friend’s to lovers romance, it’s the age old tale of almost life-long friends, developing feelings but neither wanting to overstep the mark. It leaves you screaming for them to admit their feelings so you rip through the pages in apprehension. The frustration was real!

I loved Lavinia - this Vet in training who works one day a week in the Baby Dragon Cafe. She’s known Theo since she was 7, but when did they start to see each other as more than friends? Will they do anything about it or continue to ignore their feelings for each other to keep the friendship they both cherish? Ooooh drama. I’m all for it.

I’m so excited for the next one - The Baby Dragon Bookshop?! Omg. Sign me up.

Absolutely brilliant! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy, I will definitely be recommending it.

I enjoyed the first book and it’s the same with this. Such a cosy read to snuggle under your blanket with!

I absolutely adored this book! I didn’t read the first but felt like this book could’ve been read alone, I wasn’t confused at any time.
It was a very easy read. Loved the characters and the plot. It was my first friends to lovers which I don’t think I’m a massive fan of as kept getting annoyed at the main characters for not getting together sooner!
Love Beena and Garrett, they are characters I wish were real.
I didn’t really like Lavinia and the book kept mentioning about her having this deadline which came across as very repetitive but I was glad Beena sorted that out.
I don’t think Lavinia gave her relationship with Theo enough of a chance because after like a week of them dating, she didn’t even try to delve more into Theo’s feelings, she was just willing to throw it all away without trying to find out more

The Baby Dragon Bakery is the most perfect sequel to The Baby Dragon Cafe! All the characters you fell in love with in the first book return with a focus on a certain barista and bakery boy as they navigate as friends to lovers. This story line also touches on the struggles of leaving behind a job and taking the next big venture and the emotions that come with this.
This is such a fun cosy read with dragon sprinkled in along the way! You will also finish this book craving all the food mentioned - would love a baby dragon recipe book!

3.5/5 stars for me rounding up to 4

This book was such an easy and cute read. It was enjoyable enough for me to finish in just a day.

Lavinia and Theo’s friendship is very sweet and it’s a fruitful journey watching them go back and forth on deciding if they want to be more than friends. I appreciated seeing how their other friendships and family (mostly) came in to support them as individuals.

At times, and like others have mentioned, this book felt a bit juvenile. The characters felt more like high schoolers than graduate/working professionals which took a bit away from the overall story for me.

Thank you to NetGalley, Avon, and A.T. Qureshi for access to this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I feel extremely honoured to have been allowed to read this as an arc!

Yet another comfy, cosy read and I absolutely loved reading Lavinia and Theo’s story…. There is a hint more spice than the first book. I just wished there were more baby dragons in this story! But I cannot wait to own this book and I cannot wait for the next book already!

Thank you to Netgalley and Publisher for allowing me to read this book

4-Star Review: The Baby Dragon Bakery by A.T. Qureshi

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a Hallmark movie wandered into a Dungeons & Dragons campaign and decided to open a bakery, The Baby Dragon Bakery is your answer.

Lavinia, our vet-in-training and part-time barista, is hopelessly in love with her best friend, Theo, the town’s cinnamon roll—both literally and figuratively. He’s a baker with a heart as soft as his pastries but the emotional intelligence of a rock. Their mutual pining is so intense, even the baby dragons are rolling their eyes. 

Set in the whimsical Starshine Valley, where dragons are as common as coffee shops, this friends-to-lovers tale is sprinkled with just the right amount of magic and sugar. The dual POV lets us peek into both Lavinia’s and Theo’s minds, revealing a delightful mix of longing, misunderstandings, and baked goods. 

While the plot is as predictable as a rom-com montage, it’s the charm and coziness that keep you turning the pages. Sure, you might crave a bit more dragon action, but the warmth of the characters and the comfort of the setting make up for it.

In conclusion, The Baby Dragon Bakery is a sweet, low-stakes fantasy that feels like a warm hug from a friend who brings you cookies. Just be prepared to crave pastries and wish for a baby dragon of your own.

Great to pick up where we left off with Saphira and Aiden celebrating their engagement. Love the way they describe Sparky as though he's their child. They are a good part of the story but the focus has shifted over to Lavinia and Theo.

Theo's family aren't as warm to him as they should be so it's quite sad given his nature and how well regarded he is by everyone else. He gets on amazingly well with Alfie and the rest of Lavinia's family 😊 I'm not sure why Theo's parents are so cold towards him as he's doing really well but they clearly seem to think he's not doing well in life.

Theo's longstanding relationship with Lavinia is his saving grace after the coldness shown to him by his own family. It was inevitable that the hinges would turn out the way they did. The Patrick Swayze moment between Lavinia and Theo did make me chuckle.

I also liked how Saphira continues to support her staff who are also her closest friends. She is very supportive which enables Theo to build his confidence and try out his ideas. The gulab jammun cheesecake sounds good 😋 The business venture between her and Theo sounds great too.

Like the Baby Dragon Cafe, this makes you hungry and kinda broody for a baby dragon. 😂 The drinks at the cafe sound good - Saphira's blackberry mint cocktail sounds delicious 🤤 it's a good escape into a mix of fantasy, romance, community and friendship. Can't wait for the next book in the series 🤩

I loved this book. I have read the first the baby dragon cafe and it had me hooked so I was very excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. I love the characters and the world build. It’s a cosy read with romance and of dragons which is what I love.
Thank you A. T. Qureshi , publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchanged for my honest review.

Ahh where do I start. I absolutely loved this book. It follows on from the previous book 'baby dragon cafe' which was another of my favourite reads. I would describe this as warm hug, it is heart warming and will be the perfect read for autumn. It follows the relationship between two main characters Theo and Lavinia with their will they or won't they vibe. Their friendship made the dynamic a lovely read. Another cosy romance with twist, turns and of course, dragons. What more could you want?

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchanged for an honest review.

I read the first book and when I saw this on net galley I applied and prayed! And well here I am
This book was the most perfect sequel I adored the yearning (bring back yearning) the tension the shared moments.
I really love when books have a nod to the culture of the mcs so the integration of south Asian culture had me melting (the hair oil scene to be exact)
I really believe this book is the perfect cozy read that makes you want to curl up in front of a fire a nice cup of whatever you like book in hand.

This was such a wholesome and utterly adorable book, and of course had the added essences of dragons and magic! A lovely cosy fantasy read!

Adorable and wholesome with just a sprinkle of magic. Perfect for fans of cozy fantasy. The bakery descriptions made me hungry, and the dragon was delightful.

Part of what I really loved about The Baby Dragon Cafe was the mix of fantasy in the romance. I felt like The Baby Dragon Bakery had less of the fantasy element but I oddly wasn't disappointed by this. I actually think I read this one faster than the previous book!

If you're looking for a cosy romance with loveable characters I can't recommend this enough. While the story is more character focused than plot, it was entertaining, had good pacing, and I truly enjoyed it. Much like the previous book I look forward to reading it again!

Just finished Aamna Qureshi’s The Baby Dragon Bakery and it was such a cozy delight! I don’t come to the Baby Dragon series for epic plot twists - I come for the charm, the comfort, and the characters that feel like friends. And this one delivered exactly that.
That said, I do have two (loving) critiques:
1. I need MORE dragons. Always.
2. Lavinia! Girl, you’re so smart… how are you this clueless sometimes?! I actually had to put the book down and remind myself she’s fictional and her chaotic love life isn’t my problem.
Even with the minor critiques, I adored this read. Aamna has such a gift for writing characters with heart and depth. Yes, it can feel a little immature at times, but honestly, that’s part of its charm. If you loved book one, you’ll enjoy this just as much.
And Aamna, if you happen to see this - please give us MORE dragon content in book 3!

The Baby Dragon Bakery is the perfect cosy fantasy for any fans of friends to lovers! Lavinia is a whirlwind of energy, a vet-in-training and barista at The Baby Dragon Cafe. Theo is a baker and her best friend. Lavinia believes she must find her great love on a deadline, and Theo doesn't believe he's good enough for anyone. Can they get together before it's too late? I loved seeing Theo's progression through this and his healing from some deep emotional trauma. I also loved the descriptions of Lavinia's family life - it's so wholesome and all of the food sounds delicious! I'm not normally a bug fan of friends to lovers and I didn't like the third act break up in this but I am excited to read Emmeline's book next!

I absolutely adored the first instalment in this trilogy by A.T. Qureshi (The Baby Dragon Cafe), so feel extremely lucky to have been able to read this second book so early!

From the moment I started reading, just like with the first instalment, I felt such a deep sense of happiness and comfort and that feeling never stopped! I already loved Starshine Valley and The Baby Dragon Cafe so it was wonderful being back in this world again, but this time with a focus on a different member of the Baby Dragon team, Lavinia. She is in love with her best friend Theo, except he doesn't seem to realise! We are there with Lavinia as she tries to distract herself from her feelings, busy with her studies, interning at the local animal hospital and working one day a week at the Baby Dragon. We also got to see things from Theo's point of view too, and his struggles with his family and work at the Rolling Pin Bakery. His heart just isn't in it anymore, although he does still make treats for the Baby Dragon Cafe (I wish that I could go and visit to see the cute baby dragons and try some of Theo’s creations)!

This story is so cosy and magical and the beautiful descriptions made this world come to life. I especially loved Biter, the cute baby dragon who Lavinia’s family are looking after and I was invested in Lavinia’s and Theo’s journeys as the story progressed. I was forever highlighting little sections and my favourite quotes! It was great to get to see how Saphira and Aiden are getting on too, as I came to love them both so much after reading book one in the series.

I honestly cannot recommend this series enough and I’m so glad that there is another instalment in January 2026 to look forward to!

I thought the first one was cute, and the second one is just as cute!

Cozy, easy read with friends to lovers. I'll for sure be reading the third book in the series when it comes out!

What a sequel to the Baby Dragon Cafe. Low stakes cozy fantasy. Such a cozy read. Loved the storyline

I was so excited to get the sequel to the baby dragon cafe - which I also adored!
The perfect cosy romance that you'll fly through.
And who couldn't love a story that stars baby dragons!

I loved the cute, cosy feel of this friends to lovers’ book. I would recommend to anyone who wants a low stake, light fantasy, escapist romantic comedy. I really enjoyed the characters of Theo and Lavinia in the first book and couldn't wait for this one. This one is more rom com than the first and whilst we get occasional glimpses of the mystical creatures there is more of a focus on the two friends and their internal struggles. As Theo and Lavinia have been friends since childhood there are several flashbacks that are adorable; showing how their love has evolved over time. Theo as the Baby Dragon Baker means there is a lot more baking in this book and recipes which was an addition I liked. Qureshi has begun to build the world out more now, so we get to see old and new characters in a town; whilst this is being done by several authors now; I find her light fantasy and low spice a unique addition which keeps it fresh. I am so looking forward now to the Baby Dragon Bookshop and hopefully get to see Sparky flying with riders. Thank you so much to NetGalley, A.T. Qureshi and AvonUK for the eArc!

This was one of my highly anticipated reads and it did not disappoint.
From beginning to end it had me hooked and I didn’t want to put it down when I had to. The Baby Dragon Bakery is book 2 in The Baby Dragon series by A. T. Qureshi and I loved every minute of this plus it was lovely to see the characters from book 1 also feature in this book too.

If you are looking for a fun, cozy, and easy read this book is definitely for you! Super whimsical and cute with a nice cozy fantasy touch on a simple romance. Definitely recommend for when you just need something light between more intense reads!

Just as cute as the first one! I love these books. They're so whimsical and charmig and cozy feeling. I want to the baby dragon bakery to be a real place.

First the cover i absolutely loved it
This was such a fun sweet book which i loved a tiny bit more than the first
It’s such a cosy read with amazing characters a sweet story and baby dragons and everytime I pick it up I want / need a baby dragon

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing this book, with my honest review below.

The Baby Dragon Bakery was as cute as the first book of the series! These are such comfort reads, taking the reader to a magical place where adorable baby dragons frolick and welcoming cafes and bakeries are just waiting to watch their shenanigans along with the romance that takes place amongst their owners.

In this follow up to the original, we have Lavinia and Theo in a friends that should be lovers relationship, and their relationship and character / life growth was the focus. We get to catch up with other characters (including Aidan and Saphira from the first book) while Lavinia pines for Theo. Some miscommunication and an odd deadline to be married act as conflicts amongst the romance that everyone knows is brewing - really the only thing not as focused on was an insane and cuteness overload level of baby dragons, but there’s still enough to justify the title.

These books flirt with some cheesiness but it just works in every one, which speaks to the world that the author has built up across the series. I’m sure this will be as big a hit as the first!

3.75 ⭐

I have a feeling this book will be released at the perfect time, because it will be the best autumnal read many booklovers could wish for, I just know 👀

I admit I haven't caught up with the first book of the series yet, but I couldn't resist the temptation to request The baby dragon bakery nonetheless: I'm a sucker for a good friends to lovers book, so I'm always ready to dive into stories with similar vibes.

Unfortunately, I didn't have a strong connections with the main characters, but it was still a cute and fun read.

If you're a fan of cozy fantasy, don't miss out on this one!

The Baby Dragon Bakery by A.T. Qureshi is an utterly delightful blend of fantasy, friendship, and slow-burn romance that left me smiling long after the final page. Set in a world where magical vet school and baby dragons are just part of daily life, this book is brimming with heart—and sugar-dusted with charm.

Lavinia is a wonderfully relatable heroine: ambitious, a little awkward, and hopelessly in love with her best friend Theo, the cinnamon roll of local bakers. Their friendship is beautifully written—playful, supportive, and just aching to become something more.

Add in the cozy café setting, a cast of lovable side characters, and, of course, the adorable pet baby dragon, and you’ve got a book that’s pure comfort. It’s the literary equivalent of a pumpkin spice latte on a crisp autumn day.

Perfect for curling up under a blanket with a hot drink, The Baby Dragon Bakery is a feel-good fantasy romance that will warm your heart and leave you craving cinnamon buns—and maybe a dragon of your own.

Reading The Baby Dragon Bakery felt like curling up with a warm pastry and a fuzzy blanket. A.T. Qureshi delivers the ultimate comfort read—a cozy, dual POV friends-to-lovers romance set in a world where baby dragons nap on countertops and baked goods are infused with magic. Lavinia and Theo’s story is full of heart, humor, and the kind of yearning that makes you want to reach through the pages and shake them both (lovingly).

I adored the whimsical setting of the Baby Dragon Café and all of Theo’s imaginative confections. Every chapter felt like it was dusted with cinnamon and just a little bit of heartbreak. Lavinia’s vulnerability, paired with Theo’s quiet devotion, made their bond feel so genuine and deeply rooted. If you’re in the mood for a low-stakes fantasy with swoony tension, magical creatures, and the softest slow-burn, this one is an absolute treat.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for the arc of this book. The Baby Dragon Bakery is the second book in The Baby Dragon series. I absolutely loved this book. I devoured it in two sittings. This book is from Lavinia's perspective. This book also brings back characters from the first book. It is possible to read this book as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading The Baby Dragon Cafe first. This book does focus less on dragons than the first book, I would have liked more of Biter in this book. This book is a cozy read.

This was a very cozy read. Lavinia and her child hood best friend Theo have feelings for each other, but seem to lack the communication skills to express that. It was a bit frustrating watching them pine for each other at times. I hated watching Lavinia go on dates with Callahan, and I wish Theo would have spoken up sooner. I felt bad for Theo having to watch Lavinia enjoy her dates with Callahan and I wish she would have picked up on Theo's feelings and confronted him about them. I was not expecting Lavinia's relationship with him to end how it did, but I am glad that it ended.

As a veterinarian technician, I loved the vet medicine part of this book! I loved that Lavinia was working on becoming a doctor and I thought it was so fun to read about her doing exams on dragons. In this setting I think I would choose the same career path. Who doesn't love baby animals?

Overall I really enjoyed this book! I loved the bakery and all of the fun desserts that Theo would invent for the Baby Dragon Bakery. I definitely wish I could have tried some of these bakery items myself! Thank you to Netgalley, Avon Books UK, and Aamna Qureshi for an ARC of this book. This is my honest opinion of the book.

Reviews

First of all I just want to say a huge thank you to AvonBooks UK for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC through NetGalley. I am eternally grateful! 🥰

The Baby Dragon Bakery is an amazing prequel to The Baby Dragon Cafe and if you’re looking for a cosy, autumnal and romantic read full of yearning, then definitely add this book to your TBR! ✨

I love how we get to experience the friends to lovers trope as it dives into the worries and concerns that our characters have and how they move through these challenging times together.

The amount of yearning in the book was so incredibly heartwarming, and you can tell just how much our characters have experienced together throughout their lives 🤎

One of my favourite things about this book is how the author also reflects on a lot of things about our lives as adults; the struggles we face, job challenges and romantic experiences we may encounter, and the way our characters handle these situations are very eye opening and are very inspiring.

It was also so much fun diving into Lavinia’s character more and learning so much about her; her passions, hobbies and challenges she faces not only as a student trying to find her way through life but also the romantic challenges she faces along the way as well as our other character Theo, who you can tell has gone through a lot in his life and we see his struggles and how this has shaped him, but more importantly how he uses his experiences to adapt to his life.

This book was written so well. It’s such a cosy read, and I also loved the autumnal vibes and festivities in the book, but as always, I loved the cultural representations in these books especially when it comes to all the amazing food and recipes.

If you are looking for a cosy, fun and romantic read then The Baby Dragon Bakery will be releasing in August!

Once again a huge thank you to AvonBooks UK and NetGalley for this opportunity! 🤎

The Baby Dragon Bakery 🥹

First of all.. what a cute title! And cute cover!!

I honestly loved this as much as The Baby Dragon Cafe. Two places that I wish were real!

I love Lavinia and Theo and the friendship they have! But when Lavinia makes a move and Theo pulls away, things become weird. I was rooting for them the whole time!! Did Theo make a mistake pulling away? Does he want more than a friendship with Lavinia?

A cute cozy read that you won’t want to put down! I read through this book pretty quickly and I’m really looking forward to the next one!!

If you like
🫶🏼bakery romance
💘 friends to lovers
🌶️low spice
✨cozy small town
🐉 dragons

Then this book is for you!! I can’t wait to but a psychical copy of this book!

Thank you so much NetGalley, A.T. Qureshi and Avon Books UK for the eARC!

Rating: ✨✨✨✨✨
Publication Date: August 28 2025

I really enjoyed this romance. I will always be a sucker for a best friends to lovers romance, and it was so well done here. The character dynamics, setting and world building made for such a fluffy romance. I will say though that I would have liked for the fantasy element to play a larger role. I already said in my review of the first book that this is more romance than fantasy heavy, and that's even more true here. The baby animals are all very adorable, but they could have been a larger element of the story. I did like seeing so much of Saphira again in this book!

The Baby Dragon Bakery is a nice sequel to the Baby Dragon Cafe. It has aspects of the Dragon Cafe like the relationships, and building of a business and a bit about dragons. As opposed to the Baby Dragon Cafe which had a large focus on the welfare and care and training of baby dragons, this book is truly more of a relationship story and the dragons and cooking are something that unites the characters. I really like stories that merge dragons with real life and I enjoyed this book and I’m intrigued to see what comes next.

Thank you so much to Avon Books for providing me with an early earc for this wonderful book.
I absolutely loved The Baby Dragon Cafe so when I saw that this one was available for request I just could not help myself. Oh my goodness this one did not disappoint. I absolutely loved Lavinia and Theo’s relationship, both friends and lovers. I just could not get enough of them and I was routing for them from the start. I also enjoyed being back with previous characters Aidan and Saphira and seeing how their relationship and personal lives were developing.
I love the cosy atmosphere that the author creates and I always feel right at home and at peace in between these pages.
The only criticism I have is that there were a lot less dragons than in the first and i would love to see them have a larger role in the next book. THE NEXT BOOK ABOUT A BOOKSHOP. I squealed when I got to the end of this arc to see this announcement I’m already so excited and this one hasn’t been released yet.
I cannot wait for people to start reading this book so that I can share my excitement and love of this book and the characters with other people.

Thank you netgalley for this arc.
This was such a cute cozy book!!! Oh, and the yearning, the Yearning!!. I really liked the story between these two and the chemistry. I did like this one more than the first one, i feel like even though there tropes in here I usually dislike in a book. I believe they were written really well and in a tasteful manner. Honestly the descriptions of the food were making me hungry haha.
So yeah a solid 3.75 ⭐️

"The Baby Dragon Bakery", book 2 in the Baby Dragon series, follows Lavinia and Theo, best friends for life, who suddenly find themselves having feelings for each other. But when Lavinia gets rejected by Theo and starts dating someone new, will they be able to repair their friendship and find love along the way?

If you've read the first book, you basically know what you're getting into. Some things to be wary of before you pick up this series:
-It reads like teenage fanfic. This will not win awards for how it's written
-It features the miscommunication trope
-Lavinia is supposed to be such a smart character by has really one dimensional thinking. She's training to be a vet, but has this stupid idea that she absolutely has to be with her true love at age 24 because that's the age her parents met, and she makes a ridiculous deadline to have this happen
-The 3rd act breakup in this one was so dumb

That being said, I still really enjoyed this!
-It's a light, cozy read
-Features cute baby dragons (though not enough in my opinion! More dragons please!)
-Features a mmc who loves to bake and I think that's just the sweetest
-Perfect, fast paced romance
-Loved getting to see what the characters from book 1 were up to a few months later.

I can't wait for the next installment! I really think romance readers who want to delve into a light fantasy world will love this one.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I love the concept of this book and the fantasy elements. Looking forward to other people getting a chance to read this and more from this author at a later date. Thank you to the author in the publisher for making this available.

Utterly enchanting! The Baby Dragon Bakery, the second book in A. T. Qureshi’s The Baby Dragon Series, is a whimsical and cozy delight that had me smiling from start to finish. I haven’t read the first book yet, but that didn’t stop me from falling head-over-heels for this magical world filled with warmth, wonder, and the irresistible charm of a dragon-powered bakery. Qureshi has a gift for creating stories that feel like a soft blanket, comforting, gentle, and full of heart. The bakery setting is pure magic, and the characters (especially the adorable baby dragon!) are impossible not to love. The mix of fantastical elements with everyday kindness and community spirit makes this book a perfect feel-good escape.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the series, The Baby Dragon Bakery is a treat, sweet, cozy, and brimming with magic. I’ll definitely be going back to read the first one! Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publishing house for this book.

This story was much more focused on the main couple. The story focuses on how Lavinia and Theo's relationship is evolving from friends to love interests and during this transition there's a lot of miscommunication that brings challenges along the way. That awkward transition from friends to love interests is funny, and the authors builds a good tension.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Another insanely cute & cozy book, following up with the same vibes from The Baby Dragon Cafe, this is a book to pick up when you want to feel warm and fuzzy while reading!

I loved the flashbacks to the past, and the predictable growth of the MMC and MFC's relationship! It wasn't without it's dramas, but true love always prevails!

What I found interesting was the dragons weren't as heavily involved in this storyline as the last book, which I would love to see more dragon focused plot again in the next read!

Cute cosy and all round sweet - once again ! I missed the baby dragons cuteness and we’re back again ! Lovely read ! Very cosy ❤️

This charming follow-up delivers another dose of cozy, comforting romance set in a whimsical world with just the right touch of fantasy. The dual POV works beautifully, giving insight into both the FMC and MMC’s emotional journeys as they navigate the blurred lines between deep friendship and something more. Their chemistry shines, and the friends-to-lovers arc is heartfelt without ever feeling rushed. The world-building — complete with dragons! — adds a light, magical atmosphere that perfectly complements the warm, low-stakes tone of the story.

While the book had the potential to be a perfect five-star read, a late twist in the story threw off the otherwise consistent feel-good vibe, leaving a slightly bitter aftertaste. Still, the pacing is solid, the character dynamics are compelling, and the overall experience is like a warm hug in book form. Ideal for fans of wholesome romance, fantasy elements, and a cozy night in with a mug of hot chocolate.

Thank you NetGalley and publishers for choosing me

Cute, low spice cosy romance story. It featured dragons who were more like a mix of a toddler and a puppy which was super fun!

Much like that first book, I really enjoyed this book.

This is a cozy romance with good characters dynamics and world building with fantasy elements.

I love a duel POV book and this book took the FMC and MMC's individual struggles with wanting to keep their friendship but also wanting to cross the friendship lines.

This is a cozy, comforting romance that is like a hug in a mug.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.0 stars.

Gosh this could’ve been 5 stars, I was having the best time but what happened near the end was so unexpected I was seething. I really enjoyed this, but you can’t do me like that when the vibes are good.

I did need this story, the cute elements of fantasy in the form of dragons and a wholesome story of friends to lovers. The story is well paced and I’m a sucker for dual POV. I also enjoyed how the story tackles the FMC and MMC’s individual struggles which do seem to blur into their friendship/connection to cause conflict.

I am recommending this story for lovers of a cosy wholesome romance with fantasy elements.

This was just a cute as book one. I love this cosy little world and it is just perfect for a cosy night in under the duvet.

I love the friends to lovers trope and I feel like Theo and Lavinia were full of chemistry.

This is great for when you want that low stakes feel-good vibe with hot chocolate and a cost night in!

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for an eARC of this book!!! Theo and Lavinia are the perfect couple - or they would be if they could just admit their feelings for each other. The miscommunication is strong with this one. It starts with a misperception of rejection and it spirals from there. Lavinia is super fun but feels she’s on a time crunch when it comes to finding her person - the one she’s meant to be with for the rest of her life. When she and Theo almost kiss they both panic, he pulls away and bam. She assumes he’s rejecting her, prompting the main storyline. The dragons are as cute as ever and we even see Sparky continue to grow which is arguably my favourite part of the book because, well, dragons! She starts dating someone else which leads their friendship to be on the rocks because they’re still too scared to admit their feelings and the tension slowly and deliciously builds. Now I normally eyeroll and facepalm my way through miscommunication but this was thoroughly entertaining.

This is such a sweet follow up to the first book in the series! It was so fun seeing all our old characters come back and see what they’re up to now. I loved the connection, friendship, and love between Lavinia and Theo. Watching them figure out their feelings was such a satisfying slow burn and I highly recommend it for anyone who particularly enjoys watching friends turn into romantic partners. I can’t wait for the best book!

After reading the first book, I couldn't wait to get stuck in again! There's something beautifully unique about The Baby Dragon series with it's cosy, low stakes vibes in a small town with no spice. It's definitely refreshing after all the fantasy books saturating the market at the moment. It was nice to see returning characters like Sapphira and catch up with what's happening with them (and the engagement!)

Such a super cute romance between two long term best friends with an intriguing relationship. Can't wait to see what's next!!

Baby Dragon Bakery by Aamna Qureshi

4*

The second installment of The Baby Dragon Café series delivers a slow-burn romance full of yearning and heart.

This time, the story shifts focus to two familiar faces from the first book — Theo and Lavinia. While they take center stage, the wider cast of beloved characters continues to grow and develop, keeping the charm and warmth of the original alive.

I was completely hooked by the "will they, won’t they" tension between the two leads. While the overall vibe felt quite different from the first book — and personally, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much — it was still a wonderfully cosy and comforting read.

This story beautifully explores themes of friends-to-lovers, fear of inadequacy, and the impact of an abusive family dynamic.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This charming story had me hooked from the start! I loved the cosy bakery setting mixed with a sprinkle of magical whimsy — it felt like a warm hug in book form. The characters were sweet and the gentle romance made it a lovely, comforting read.

Perfect for anyone who enjoys feel-good fantasy with heart and a dash of magic. I’m looking forward to more from A.T. Qureshi!

I truly enjoyed this heartwarming romance. I'm a total sucker for the best-friends-to-lovers trope, and this book executed it beautifully. The character relationships, immersive setting, and light world-building all came together to create a delightfully sweet and fluffy story.

That said, I do wish the fantasy aspects had been more prominent. As I mentioned in my review of the first book, the story leans more heavily into romance than fantasy—and that’s even more apparent in this installment. While the adorable baby animals added plenty of charm, they felt more like a background detail than a central part of the plot.

Still, it was a joy to revisit Saphira and spend more time in this world. Fans of cozy, romantic reads with just a dash of magic will definitely find something to love here.

4.75 stars (rounded up to 5)

I'm a huge fan of the friends-to-lovers trope and I'm a huge fan of Aamna Qureshi's writing, so of course, my excitement for The Baby Dragon Bakery was quite high. This book was everything that I wanted, and then some. I was so thrilled to be coming back to this world and experience Lavinia and Theo's story. There are many reasons as to why I enjoyed this book, but the yearning?? Let's just say, that was pure perfection. The yearning and the mutual pining was freaking adorable and the chemistry between the two was palpable.

When you're reading, you can clearly see and tell how much both Lavinia and Theo care for each other. They are both treading a very delicate balance in wanting to protect their friendship, and crossing that balance and watching them trying to keep, and subsequently fail, this balance is what makes this book such a great read. There's almost kisses, practice kisses and actual kisses, and all of them are so so good. I don't want to spoil but there's some really great jealousy scenes, especially on Theo's part, and those were some of my favs in the book.

All in all, The Baby Dragon Bakery was such a cute, cozy and comforting romance, and I cannot wait to have a physical copy of this in my hands!

I absolutely adored this story. I fell in love with Theo and Lavinia and my heart broke for Theo’s unhappy home life. I spent the whole story rooting for the two of them, especially seeing how much Theo blossomed within Lavinia’s family. The snippets of their friendship as kids was heartwarming and emotional and just made me root for the couple more! I also loved the additional snippets of Aiden and Saphina’s relationship and hope to see their eventual wedding in a further book!

The Baby Dragon Bakery is a sweet, low-stakes friends-to-lovers romance with a dusting of magic and a whole lot of emotional warmth. Lavinia and Theo’s dynamic is endearing, full of awkward tension and unresolved feelings that spiral into jealousy and missed chances, though the reliance on miscommunication can be a bit frustrating. The setting is whimsical and comforting, with adorable baby dragons and a mythical vet school adding charm, though the fantasy elements take a backseat to the romance this time around. While returning readers will enjoy seeing familiar characters like Saphira again, some may wish the magical worldbuilding played a larger role. Still, for fans of gentle, cinnamon-roll stories with cozy vibes and emotional beats, this one delivers a charming and predictable comfort read.

cozy, fun, wholesome.
I loved this story. If you're looking for a quick and easy read, you'll want to check out this book.
I would definitely pick up this story again. It was funny with low stacks, but still entertaining, and very warm and cozy vibes.

I am in love!! What really makes it stand out is the magical little world Quereshi creates - baby dragons living alongside everyday life at the cutest bakery which is such a fun and unique twist.
Beyond the fantasy though, it's the characters that really win me over. Lavinia's quiet longing for her best friend Theo feels so real and heartfelt and watching their friendship slowly turn into something more was beautifully dont. The slow burn romance had just the right mix of tension and warmth, making it impossible to put down.
Plus, the setting is like a warm hug, with small town vibes with that sprinkle of magic that makes the whole thing feel special. I can't wait for book 3!

The Baby Dragon Bakery is the second book in the cosy fantasy series - The Baby Dragon. It follows Lavinia and Theo who we met in book one.

This is a friends to lovers book and it I felt was done so well. There was yearning there was fun, there was a little bit of spice but it shows the love and friendship that Theo and Lavinia have for one another.

This to me is the perfect cosy fantasy book with a sprinkle of romance and magic. We got to see characters from book one as well as Sparky the baby dragon. The relationships not only between the main couple but between Lavinia and her mother were some of my favourite scenes and honestly this felt like being wrapped in a warm hug.

Firstly, I absolutely adored the baby dragon cafe! I was so happy to be back in this world reading book 2. I do wish this one had a little bit more of the baby dragons in though, I definitely would have liked to see them more involved in the story line (I just can't get enough of the baby dragons 😅)

I am not the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope, so I feel like thats why I personally didn't love this one as much as book 1, but I'll definitely still be reading book 3, this was just complete personal preference about the trope! I do love a friends to lovers story though, and I did root for Lavinia and Theo throughout. It was a cosy, comfort read and I flew through it in a day.

If you're looking for a cute and cosy romance read with a small side of fantasy (and baby dragons!), this is definitely the series for it.

“My heart beats for you.”

Thank you to Avon Books UK for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

Lavinia has it all. A loving family (complete with adorable pet baby dragon). A place at university training to be a magical animal vet. And a part-time job at the enchanting Baby Dragon Cafe. The only thing she doesn’t have is her one true love: Theo. Theo is the local baker and her best friend. On paper, they’re perfect: he’s funny, she’s witty. He’s sweet, and she’s a little salty. That’s why they’ve been friends for as long as they can remember. They’ve never been without one another – and it’s clear to everyone that they’re meant to be. Everyone except Theo. Because when Lavinia finally makes her move, he pulls away. Lavinia is devastated. Has this friendship gone up in smoke? Or will Theo finally realise that he wants them to be more than friends?

Lavinia knows what she wants and I certainly admire her for that. She’s bubbly and her sunny personality is certainly infectious! She is incredibly passionate about her career path and it is incredibly obvious that she is proud of what she does. Her connections with her family too were so heart warming to see. I really enjoyed getting to see the unfolding story from Lav’s POV. She has this way of looking at the world which is incredibly interesting and engaging, which heightened my excitement for the story. Sure, there were a few moments where I wanted to give her a kick up the backside but I actually appreciated those moments. No one is perfect, after all!
Theo is such a sweetheart. He is incredibly kind and caring, always looking out for others and putting them before himself. I loved that we got to see him really bolster his confidence here whilst simultaneously also working through some deeply rooted issues. We get to see him bravely face his emotions and the reality that things need to change for him. I loved his interactions with everyone. You can really see that he has such a warming and welcoming personality. He draws you in and you never want to leave his company. I do hope we get to see more of Theo in the future!

Having enjoyed The Baby Dragon Café so much, I was beyond ecstatic to receive an eARC of the second book in the series! I loved that this story is entirely its own whilst still interconnecting beautifully with the first book. The plot is certainly sturdy, bringing all the great cozy vibes that I loved before. It has a great flow to it and I found myself eagerly sinking into Starshine Valley each time I picked up my Kindle. Perhaps my only gripe is the fact this felt a little lacking on the fantasy this time around and that perhaps contributed to this feeling more YA than Adult for the majority of the book. Don’t get me wrong, I still loved this book but when the only fantasy really comes from a few baby dragons scattered around, I found myself wanting more. But something that excelled for this story was the mental health rep - specifically for a male leading character. Far too often, the male characters and how they are doing is overlooked. I was beyond thrilled to see this wasn’t the case here! Character wise, Qureshi has once again done a brilliant job. We got to see glimpses of our main duo before but I loved getting to be in their heads and seeing things from their point of view. What I also really enjoyed was seeing the original duo from the previous book in a different light! Seeing them from an outsider’s POV was fantastic! There was, of course, a lot of romance here! I am not the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope but the way this was such a great best friends to lovers story certainly made up for it, in my opinion. There is such an emotional depth here from both characters that was great to see unfold - especially as they started understanding their own feelings and where their hearts were guiding them. We got a little spice here as well. Is it bad I wanted more from it? I think it was incredibly sweet but I almost wanted some explosive chemistry! The ending was a great wrap up of everything that occurred here. The epilogue was a little short in my opinion, but I still think it added what it needed to. I am incredibly excited for the next instalment in 2026!

Overall, The Baby Dragon Bakery is a fantastic second book in this whimsical series.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Thank you again to Avon Books UK for an advanced copy of this book. Yay for being part of Team Baby Dragon! Review will be live on my blog on release day and is available now on Goodreads.

This was such a cute and fun book! I cant wait for the next one.
It was the perfect continuation from book 1 and had some amazing developments

One of the best cosy romances I’ve ever read!! This was a beautiful read with my FAVOURITE friends to lovers trope!! It was also such an easy and relaxing read.

Lavinia and Theo are both lovely souls and they are genuinely perfect for each other. I really felt connected to them throughout the book and I think they compliment each other so well. This book literally had me kicking my feet in joy🥰 Sparky and the baby dragons will always have a special place in my heart they are just the cutest!!!

I did have to knock it down only slightly for the third act breakup that broke my heart🥹 it’s a trope I can rarely get behind unfortunately.

Side Note: I could devour all the food and drink that is spoken about in this book😋 I’m now craving Karak Chai😂

This will be a stunning autumn book for the fall 2025 release date🍂🍁 I also cannot wait for Book 3, this universe is incredible!!

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

I absoltely loved this book more than I did the first, and it shows as I read it in less than 2 days! 🤣🤣 Theo and Lavinia are absoltely everything!

They are the cutest together and perfectly match eachother! I am so happy they finally end up together and what a journey to get there. I hope they have an amazing life together! I love Lavinia's parents and wish they were my parents.

The only disappointment I had was Theo not opening his own cafe called The Baby Dragon Bakery! I really wanted him to open his own pace and be happy baking all the things he wanted to bake, full of all his fusion deserts and goods! Although being recognised for his goods in the cafe is amazing!

I honestly can't wait for The Baby Dragon Bookshop! Xx

"Will it be a recipe for romance? Or a friendship up in flames?

Lavinia has it all. A loving family (complete with adorable pet baby dragon). A place at university training to be a magical animal vet. And a part-time job at the enchanting Baby Dragon Cafe. The only thing she doesn't have is her one true love: Theo.

Theo is the local baker and her best friend. On paper, they're perfect: he's funny, she's witty. He's sweet, and she's a little salty. That's why they've been friends for as long as they can remember. They've never been without one another - and it's clear to everyone that they're meant to be.

Everyone except Theo. Because when Lavinia finally makes her move, he pulls away.

Lavinia is devastated. Has this friendship gone up in smoke? Or will Theo finally realise that he wants them to be more than friends?

The perfect dual POV, friends-to-lovers cozy fantasy, with HEA guaranteed!"

I think I could only read this knowing that I was guaranteed an HEA. The blurb is too traumatizing otherwise!

The Baby Dragon Bakery is an utterly enchanting tale that wraps you in a warm, cinnamon-scented hug from the very first page. This story is a sweet, cosy delight—a perfect blend of heartwarming charm and gentle romance that leaves you glowing long after you finish it.

Set in a magical little village where dragons bake cookies and cupcakes with love, the story follows a shy young baker and a mysterious traveler who stumble upon each other in the coziest of circumstances. Their slow-blooming romance, filled with shy smiles, stolen glances, and shared pastries, is the beating heart of this beautiful tale. It’s the kind of love story that feels like curling up by the fireplace on a snowy evening.

What truly sets The Baby Dragon Bakery apart is how deeply comforting it is. The author’s prose is lush and whimsical, painting a world you’ll want to live in forever. The bakery itself—filled with flickering lanterns, flour-dusted counters, and the soft crackle of the oven—is a character in its own right.

Whether you're a hopeless romantic or just in need of a cozy escape, this story is pure magic. It’s sweet, it’s tender, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.

This romance really captured me, especially since I’m a big fan of stories where best friends become lovers—and this one did it exceptionally well. The relationships felt authentic, and the setting brought a warm, inviting atmosphere that made the whole read very comforting.

However, I was hoping for a stronger focus on the fantasy elements. The magical aspects took a backseat to the romance, even more so than in the first book. While the baby creatures were undeniably cute, they didn’t have as much impact on the story as I expected. Still, it was a treat to reconnect with Saphira’s character throughout the book!

I really loved this! This is a perfect follow up to The Baby Dragon Café, another cosy, romantic read made better by baby dragons. I really enjoyed exploring more of Lavinia and Theo's characters and their personal struggles. Their relationship with each other, both friendly and romantic, felt realistic and I loved seeing it develop through memories, especially how they became friends. There are some character cameos from the first book, which I loved, but you don't need to have read that to enjoy this book (though I recommend you do). This is definitely a light and fluffy read, but I loved it for what it was. It's a perfect read for a low-stakes, cosy romance with lovely heartfelt moments throughout.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this eArc in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this just as much as the first book. However do note this can be read a standalone and only features cute nods to characters in the first book!
The story follows Lavinia, who seemingly has it all – a loving family (complete with an adorable pet baby dragon), a spot at university training to be a magical animal vet, and a part-time job at the whimsical Baby Dragon Café. The only thing missing? Her one true love: Theo.

Theo is the local baker and Lavinia’s lifelong best friend. On paper, they’re perfect – he’s sweet, she’s a little salty; he’s charming, she’s clever. They’ve been inseparable for as long as anyone can remember, and to everyone around them, their love story feels inevitable.
Everyone except Theo.
When Lavinia finally takes the leap and confesses her feelings, Theo pulls away – leaving her heartbroken and wondering if their friendship has gone up in flames.
The story follows their journey through heartbreak, hope, and maybe something magical – will it be a recipe for romance, or the end of everything they’ve ever known?

Miscommunication is the main trope at play here, but I really enjoyed it as we got both POVs so we could see what each character was thinking and where the miscommunication was arising from. The setting is a sort of 'fantasy-lite' area where mostly this is a romance with some fantasy elements. Therefore i think its perfect for people who normally read contemporery romance but want to dip their toes into a little more magic alongside. I loved theo and Lavinia (I'm a sucker for a friends-to-lovers romance) and their friendship and journey together seemed so wholesome and cozy and allowed them to grow as a couple but also grow as individuals and learn things about themselves along the way.
The ending was a tiny bit rushed for me but I stil absolutely loved it. Lavinias family was also a high point for me as they were just everything a wonderful loving family should be and the nicest people all around.

The story continues from where the baby dragon cafe left off. A lighthearted cosy romance with some fantasy but not strong fantasy. A perfect book for wrapping yourself up on the sofa with a hot drink and letting go for a bit.

I really enjoyed the first book of this series and was eager to return to the baby dragons and the cutesy vibes of the valley, so when I was offered an advanced readers copy, I jumped at the chance and here are my thoughts.

The start of this story made me excited for Lavinia and Theo’s story. Childhood friends to best friends to big love, of course I was sold on it!

However, the yearning and the slow burn was incredibly slow. I felt that Lavinia’s naivety towards love and a future with someone special was a bit annoying. I also found her a little whiney and unbearable in parts which was sad because I loved her in the first book.

When things became clearer for our main characters, the magic came back for me, it felt exciting and I was eager to see where their story was heading. Overall I found this story exciting, super cute but a little frustrating. I’m eager to see where this series goes with the next book in the series and won’t give up on this world yet!

I really enjoyed this book better than the first one I love the storyline..

Blurb

Will it be a recipe for romance? Or a friendship up in flames?


Lavinia has it all. A loving family (complete with adorable pet baby dragon). A place at university training to be a magical animal vet. And a part-time job at the enchanting Baby Dragon Cafe. The only thing she doesn’t have is her one true love: Theo.


Theo is the local baker and her best friend. On paper, they’re perfect: he’s funny, she’s witty. He’s sweet, and she’s a little salty. That’s why they’ve been friends for as long as they can remember. They’ve never been without one another – and it’s clear to everyone that they’re meant to be.


Everyone except Theo. Because when Lavinia finally makes her move, he pulls away.


Lavinia is devastated. Has this friendship gone up in smoke? Or will Theo finally realise that he wants them to be more than friends?

Tropes:



Friends-to-lovers 💝

Bakery romance 💝

Small town 🍂

Low spice ✨

I wasn’t sure about this genre Romantasy intrigued me so this cover looked so cute, so I was tempted I’m so happy I went with my gut feeling as I thoroughly enjoyed enjoyed this light read, a great setting in a cafe owned by Saphira so opened it for people who could come and have a coffee and bring their pet dragon, there was a fun side to this however not for Saphira as baby dragons just like any babies have no control yet and Sparky the dragon just like all dragons like to set things a light, so
Saphira Is running her cafe at a loss because wooden furniture burns, she needs to solve this costly problem

Aidan visits with his dragon and they become slowly more than friends . She learns about his tragic life when he lost his brother. She not only falls for sparky the dragon but for Aidan too….
I can’t wait for book 2 to come out to follow this cute story
Book 2 the baby dragons bakery. It’s eagerly awaited by me.

For enjoyment factor it’s 5* from me

A great follow on from the first Baby Dragon book which is a cosy romance story with a little fantasy thrown in for good measure. This is a real cosy romance story to get totally lost in.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review.