A journey of radical self-acceptance.
Cakewalk follows Bryan Hicks, a successful Black engineer in Houston who’s built his life around respectability, control, and carefully kept secrets. After a painful divorce, he meets Nadia, a witty, self-assured white trans woman who works at a local bookstore. Their connection is immediate, but Bryan keeps their relationship hidden—too afraid of what his family, coworkers, and the world might think.
As their love deepens, so does the tension. Nadia wants to live out loud, while Bryan clings to silence. When a surprise encounter with a gay colleague threatens to expose their relationship, Bryan spirals into shame, anxiety, and confusion about his desires. Meanwhile, Nadia grows tired of being a secret.
Set against the backdrop of Houston’s multicultural neighborhoods and corporate towers, Cakewalk explores identity, masculinity, trans-amorous love, and the heavy cost of hiding. Bryan must decide whether to protect his image or claim the love that could set him free.
A deeply intimate story about what it means to live truthfully, Cakewalk is a meditation on desire, courage, and the difficult path toward self-acceptance. In a world that punishes nonconformity, Cakewalk dares to ask: What if the hardest walk is the one toward your own truth?
“This book gave me a whole new perspective on the struggles that both black people and LGBTQ+ people face on the daily; to see it laid out so bare is heart wrenching to read. It takes both of those hardships and meshes them nigh perfectly into the main character, turning it into a compelling and at some points tense narrative. I also like the end notes with how the book got its name, to the authors Buddhist perspective about putting aside any prejudice, labels or beliefs and accepting yourself just as you are. 10/10, would recommend to others.” – Amazon Reviewer
“I loved Nadia for her "I don't take crap" mindset and for sticking up for herself. I endeavour to be as strong and brave within my life journey.
A great story about choices, and the harsh reality of hiding who you are, and the repercussions of these choices.
I thoroughly enjoyed this.” – Goodreads Reviewer
“Bell describes a very nuanced struggle that as a cis man don't understand. The growth of a queer relationship, between two people and also their friends and family. Bell shows empathy in both the highs and lows as Bryan and Nadia navigate life together. I could tell that Bell did his research in the community, and I learned helpful things that also make me more aware and can be a better ally in the community.” – Goodreads Reviewer
“Cakewalk is a riveting read that explores the nuances of the human experience and the many ways we all possess blindspots to the trauma we inflict on each other. I can’t sing the praises of this book enough.”
Gianna Ramirez, GOODREads reviewer
Audiobook available! February 2026
Look no further for your next romance audiobook escape!