Day: May 13, 2020

YAY! It’s the second book in the Hot Cakes series from Erin Nicholas, and it’s every bit as yummy as the first one (Sugarcoated). This time, we get the story of Dax and Jane, and, as always, the characters are realistic and likable.

I loved that Jane was curvy and proud of it (and also that she wasn’t afraid to start her day with a strawberry-cream cheese bar instead of coffee. A girl after my own heart). But what I particularly liked is that her size didn’t become a “thing.” She was who she was, and that’s what Dax liked. Period.

Dax was fun. Known as the member of the group who keeps it light (bean bag chairs and ping pong), he showed remarkable depth when it came to Jane’s family. THAT is what ultimately made him swoon-worthy in my eyes.

Secondary characters never get short shrift in Ms. Nicholas’ books, and this one is no exception. Cassie and Aspen were the awfulest of steps, straight out of Cinderella. (I know “awfulest” isn’t a real word, but they don’t deserve proper grammar). I adored Piper, and I’m pretty sure she is my spirit animal.

And even though we know that each of the guys will get their chance at love, their “background” status still allows them to interact with the banter that the author is so good at. I always end up laughing out loud multiple times (this time, the “sexual harassment” conversation about killed me).

Another thing the author does well is timeliness and current trends, but she does it without being obvious. The scene with the coloring books of swear words comes instantly to mind. That’s something everyone can relate to, especially these days.

On a personal note, I was also drawn in by Jane’s father. My dad was diagnosed with a little-known neural disease (under the Parkinson’s umbrella, but a separate disease) that was so unknown, the doctors could pretty much do nothing. This story ends before Jack progresses to the worst part of that kind of disease. The descriptions of him before the disease, and his mannerisms during, reminded me a LOT of my dad.  

I think that’s part of the reason that Dax is currently my favorite. He just “got” it, and he knew that he wanted to be there to help Jane. I know it’s only book two, but the other guys of Fluke are going to have to work hard to knock Dax out of the top spot for me. Can’t wait to see how they do!

AUTHOR BIO

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Erin Nicholas has been writing romances almost as long as she’s been reading them. To date, she’s written over thirty sexy, contemporary novels that have been described as “toe-curling,” “enchanting,” “steamy,” and “fun.” She adores reluctant heroes, imperfect heroines, and happily ever afters.

Erin lives in the Midwest, where she enjoys spending time with her husband (who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books), her kids (who will never read the sex scenes in her books), and her family and friends (who claim to be “shocked” by the sex scenes in her books).