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marmaladereads's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
How does a zero spice book about anxiety have so many dick jokes?
It turns out I actually love books that give you the worst kind of secondhand embarrassment. Paris is the worst kind of disaster "keeps fucking everything up when it was actually going okay because anxiety" kind of way and I was cringing and laughing on his behalf the entire time. This book is a painful look at anxiety disorder and we're in Paris's head the whole time which is honestly a little cringe but it is also hilarious and snarky in a very classic Alexis Hall type of way. And yes, it is like 40% penis jokes. A shocking amount of penis jokes, really. (They're all funny.)
I do think the second half is when things fall apart a little bit. Paris gets predictably better (this is a romance novel, after all, everyone gets their HEA) but I do wish the time scale was a looot longer. It just happened a bit too quickly for me given how severe his anxiety was, it felt a wee bit too magical therapy moment.
Oh, and there's the whole baking competition bit, so that's nice too, I guess.
It turns out I actually love books that give you the worst kind of secondhand embarrassment. Paris is the worst kind of disaster "keeps fucking everything up when it was actually going okay because anxiety" kind of way and I was cringing and laughing on his behalf the entire time. This book is a painful look at anxiety disorder and we're in Paris's head the whole time which is honestly a little cringe but it is also hilarious and snarky in a very classic Alexis Hall type of way. And yes, it is like 40% penis jokes. A shocking amount of penis jokes, really. (They're all funny.)
I do think the second half is when things fall apart a little bit. Paris gets predictably better (this is a romance novel, after all, everyone gets their HEA) but I do wish the time scale was a looot longer. It just happened a bit too quickly for me given how severe his anxiety was, it felt a wee bit too magical therapy moment.
Oh, and there's the whole baking competition bit, so that's nice too, I guess.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Panic attacks/disorders, and Abandonment
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Xenophobia, Religious bigotry, and Toxic friendship
emmab_124's review
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness
Minor: Bullying and Panic attacks/disorders
thethingwithfeathers's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Bullying and Religious bigotry
alfalky's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Bullying, Racial slurs, Islamophobia, and Religious bigotry
roadesntoades's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Honestly this book surprised me. I read the back of it, saw the words “classics” and “baking” and thought well I like both do those things so why not. I had little expectations going in but found myself finishing this in a day and also felt like I reading a mirror reflection of things I’ve dealt with that I haven’t seen honestly portrayed before or in a way that didn’t feel preachy or cliche.
The characters are interesting and well developed and the relationship between Paris and Tariq is a refreshing one. They are not a perfect match nor are they ever portrayed as perfect people but it’s the imperfections that I think make their relationship work on page. I don’t think romances should always have the perfect couples who issues and character flaws are just brushed away by rom com magic. Paris is selfish and ignorant of a lot of things. Tariq does have a savior complex and does guilt Paris when he has different expectations regarding their relationship(excluding religious expectations such as intimacy) and PDA. But by the end, not only do they both address those flaws but also make clear steps towards resolving them. Paris is more self aware of the world and himself and is making active steps to not only earn Tariq’s forgiveness but also be a better person. Tariq by the end is being more selfish and is considering what is best for him before what is best for Paris in regards to the state of their relationship and better understands that expectations and wants are two different things and will not always align perfectly with the person you’re with. They are not perfect, and the ending does leave their relationship a bit open in regards to the future. But I think that’s what makes it good.
My only complaint is that there are so many monologues that are so self deprecating and intense that it can get a bit tiring after awhile. But all in all this is a great book to read if you want something light hearted with a solid concept. I know other reviews will say this book is bad and list all the ways that you shouldn’t read it but honestly, I think a few of them missed the point. Rom coms don’t have to have a perfect couple or a perfect ending or people. The characters can be messy and complicated, and make big mistakes that many of us wouldn’t easily forgive. But why should that stop people from loving it for what it is?
The characters are interesting and well developed and the relationship between Paris and Tariq is a refreshing one. They are not a perfect match nor are they ever portrayed as perfect people but it’s the imperfections that I think make their relationship work on page. I don’t think romances should always have the perfect couples who issues and character flaws are just brushed away by rom com magic. Paris is selfish and ignorant of a lot of things. Tariq does have a savior complex and does guilt Paris when he has different expectations regarding their relationship(excluding religious expectations such as intimacy) and PDA. But by the end, not only do they both address those flaws but also make clear steps towards resolving them. Paris is more self aware of the world and himself and is making active steps to not only earn Tariq’s forgiveness but also be a better person. Tariq by the end is being more selfish and is considering what is best for him before what is best for Paris in regards to the state of their relationship and better understands that expectations and wants are two different things and will not always align perfectly with the person you’re with. They are not perfect, and the ending does leave their relationship a bit open in regards to the future. But I think that’s what makes it good.
My only complaint is that there are so many monologues that are so self deprecating and intense that it can get a bit tiring after awhile. But all in all this is a great book to read if you want something light hearted with a solid concept. I know other reviews will say this book is bad and list all the ways that you shouldn’t read it but honestly, I think a few of them missed the point. Rom coms don’t have to have a perfect couple or a perfect ending or people. The characters can be messy and complicated, and make big mistakes that many of us wouldn’t easily forgive. But why should that stop people from loving it for what it is?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Miscarriage, Panic attacks/disorders, and Abandonment
Moderate: Racism, Islamophobia, and Sexual harassment
hobbithopeful's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Alexis Hall has written an exceptionally funny story where queer romance meets The Great British Bake Off, and added delightfully messy characters that you can't help but love.
When Paris's self professed fat Glaswegian sex goddess roommate, Morag, enters him into Bake Expectations, he doesn't expect do well at all. Except he does. He does really well. And then he meets fellow competitor sparkly Tariq, with his beautiful varnished nails and assured sense of style. If only Paris had any self esteem and could stop worrying himself in circles about well, everything.
Paris Daillencourt is About to Crumble follows Paris's journey through competing on the nations favorite bake show, while he tries to push past his crippling anxiety.
Favorite Moments: The character banter, food descriptions, Grace Forsythe!
Least Favorite: All the baking talk made me so hungry! I would have loved some closure on Paris's parents. (Though I understand it is more realistic this way.)
I have seen so many mixed reviews in regards to Paris, his general personality, and mental health struggle. I must admit dear reader, that I do have biases towards his overall character and growth. I have struggled with what ifs and the paralyzing anxiety that comes with it. It is incredibly draining to be around someone who needs constant emotional support and reassurance, especially when they haven't gotten any help for them problems. I think that a lot of people are missing that Paris did get help. More important he is trying. Trying to do better, and quite honestly he is in a much better place mentally then at the beginning of the book. I really liked how Hall depicted Paris and Tariq's relationship and how Tariq established boundaries. I also thought the microaggressions that Tariq faced were masterfully well done, microaggressions are always so frustrating because it feels impossible to call people out on them.
This is the second book in the Winner Bakes All series and the second book of Alexis Hall's that I have read. Easily read as a standalone, I didn't read the first book and had no trouble following. Alexis Hall is an extremely talented writer, no matter the pov or character you always feel like you are experiencing what the character is, be it a regency era romance, or a light hearted baking story. He now stands as one of my current favorite authors(I love consistency), I can't wait to read more by him.
The Cover
I overall think that this is a good composition, and I do like it, though there are a few elements I don't love.
First the overall use of a rainbow sliced cake is a great nod to the fact that this is a queer book. (Sometimes I go to a bookstore and it's hard to tell if a book is apart of the LGBT or not!) I think it is really cute how Tariq and Paris are both leaning against it, each standing in a way that conveys their personality.
The polka dot background seems a bit messy, and I feel it could have easily been a solid color or less busy.
I adore how the font follows the cake lines and seems to be going in and out, it adds depth and great character.
With how many times Tariq's fashion and overall style is mentioned, it would have been nice to see that conveyed through his outfit. While he is dressed nicely, it is missing his flamboyant and colorful sense of style present in the book. ALSO! Tariq's nails are our first introduction to his character, and a defining point throughout the story. I can't believe his nails aren't painted his signature rainbow color, or another bold pattern.
Paris is taller then Tariq but his art seems less like he was drawn tall and more like he was enlarged to be bigger, with some of his proportions looking a bit off as a result.
Overall I think it is a very cute cover, and works so well with the story and theme.
Cover design and illustration by Elizabeth Turner Stokes
When Paris's self professed fat Glaswegian sex goddess roommate, Morag, enters him into Bake Expectations, he doesn't expect do well at all. Except he does. He does really well. And then he meets fellow competitor sparkly Tariq, with his beautiful varnished nails and assured sense of style. If only Paris had any self esteem and could stop worrying himself in circles about well, everything.
Paris Daillencourt is About to Crumble follows Paris's journey through competing on the nations favorite bake show, while he tries to push past his crippling anxiety.
Favorite Moments: The character banter, food descriptions, Grace Forsythe!
Least Favorite: All the baking talk made me so hungry! I would have loved some closure on Paris's parents. (Though I understand it is more realistic this way.)
I have seen so many mixed reviews in regards to Paris, his general personality, and mental health struggle. I must admit dear reader, that I do have biases towards his overall character and growth. I have struggled with what ifs and the paralyzing anxiety that comes with it. It is incredibly draining to be around someone who needs constant emotional support and reassurance, especially when they haven't gotten any help for them problems. I think that a lot of people are missing that Paris did get help. More important he is trying. Trying to do better, and quite honestly he is in a much better place mentally then at the beginning of the book. I really liked how Hall depicted Paris and Tariq's relationship and how Tariq established boundaries. I also thought the microaggressions that Tariq faced were masterfully well done, microaggressions are always so frustrating because it feels impossible to call people out on them.
This is the second book in the Winner Bakes All series and the second book of Alexis Hall's that I have read. Easily read as a standalone, I didn't read the first book and had no trouble following. Alexis Hall is an extremely talented writer, no matter the pov or character you always feel like you are experiencing what the character is, be it a regency era romance, or a light hearted baking story. He now stands as one of my current favorite authors(I love consistency), I can't wait to read more by him.
The Cover
I overall think that this is a good composition, and I do like it, though there are a few elements I don't love.
First the overall use of a rainbow sliced cake is a great nod to the fact that this is a queer book. (Sometimes I go to a bookstore and it's hard to tell if a book is apart of the LGBT or not!) I think it is really cute how Tariq and Paris are both leaning against it, each standing in a way that conveys their personality.
The polka dot background seems a bit messy, and I feel it could have easily been a solid color or less busy.
I adore how the font follows the cake lines and seems to be going in and out, it adds depth and great character.
With how many times Tariq's fashion and overall style is mentioned, it would have been nice to see that conveyed through his outfit. While he is dressed nicely, it is missing his flamboyant and colorful sense of style present in the book. ALSO! Tariq's nails are our first introduction to his character, and a defining point throughout the story. I can't believe his nails aren't painted his signature rainbow color, or another bold pattern.
Paris is taller then Tariq but his art seems less like he was drawn tall and more like he was enlarged to be bigger, with some of his proportions looking a bit off as a result.
Overall I think it is a very cute cover, and works so well with the story and theme.
Cover design and illustration by Elizabeth Turner Stokes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Bullying
Minor: Homophobia, Islamophobia, and Religious bigotry
amberinpieces's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Mental illness, and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Bullying, Homophobia, Racism, Antisemitism, Islamophobia, Medical content, and Alcohol
a_win_in_clear_rain's review against another edition
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
It was cute... Not my favorite though.
I went into this expecting an adorable baking show romantic comedy, and it definitely was not that.
It was a good book, but it was much more focused on the main character and his struggles.
I did appreciate the huge character growth,especially near the end, and that they verbally recognized that they both made mistakes!
Overall, wouldn't recommend if you're looking for a cute, lighthearted romance, but if you like contemporary books in general you'll probably enjoy this one!
I went into this expecting an adorable baking show romantic comedy, and it definitely was not that.
It was a good book, but it was much more focused on the main character and his struggles.
I did appreciate the huge character growth,
Overall, wouldn't recommend if you're looking for a cute, lighthearted romance, but if you like contemporary books in general you'll probably enjoy this one!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Mental illness, and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Bullying, Homophobia, Racism, Sexual content, Islamophobia, and Abandonment
sarahmiller98's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
3.5
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Panic attacks/disorders, and Islamophobia
lecta's review against another edition
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Bullying, Homophobia, Racism, and Islamophobia