A journey of radical self-acceptance.
Cakewalk – 2nd Edition by Douglas Bell is a deeply reflective novel about silence, truth, and the spiritual journey toward self-acceptance.
Set in 2015 Houston during the heated HERO Bill debate, Bryan Hicks is a successful Black executive whose life appears perfectly constructed. But behind the polished exterior, he hides a life-altering secret: he is in a relationship with Nadia, a transgender woman. Fear and shame keep him silent, and he fights the question of whether he belongs to the LGBTQ+ community because he has never seen anyone like himself reflected there. As the demands of his corporate world intensify, Bryan starts meditating simply to reduce the anxiety of his high-pressure job.
What begins as stress relief becomes an unexpected path to awakening. In the stillness of meditation—and through Buddhist teachings on impermanence, suffering, and compassion—Bryan begins to see the truth he has avoided. Silence becomes a mirror, revealing not just his fears but also his longing for authenticity, connection, and freedom.
As his professional life unravels and his internal conflict deepens, Bryan learns that transformation begins within. Through loss, reflection, and surrender, he discovers that community is found only when he stops hiding from himself.
Because in the end, Cakewalk shows that loving and living authentically is the most courageous spiritual practice of all.
“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
“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!