Douglas Bell is ringing a bell on untold stories in society.
A journey of radical self-acceptance.
“Bell describes a very nuanced struggle that as a cis man WE 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
“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
The story continues…with Love Cake
“The book shows its scaffolding in terms of plot and intention, but the author’s portrayal of trans-cis and interracial relationships, plus the dynamics of Covid-19 and MAGA politics, give this novel a topical urgency.
An earnest LGBTQ+ love story set against the turmoil of the pandemic.” - Kirkus Reviews
Intention
My intention with CAKEWALK and LOVE CAKE is to reveal the complicated relationship between trans women and straight cis men when family and societal constructs become barriers to real love. The CAKE Series celebrates cis and trans intimate relationships and asks that trans women be acknowledged for wanting love as any woman would.
Vision
I enjoy writing for many reasons. I write to dream, to see the nuances in my life, to show gratitude, to apologize, to put order in my life, to create. I want my novels to serve as examples of courage to do the right thing, of being more loving, and more engaged with life’s challenges. My novels are meant to illuminate what is possible when we show more compassion and empathy to each other.
“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
“This book is a must read not only for its relevancy but also from the unique perspective from which it is written. A true and realistic voice of an ally for the trans community. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride that I would sign up for again and again!”
quote from fresh new voice
“I loved Nadia for her "I don't take crap" mindset and for sticking up for herself. I endeavor 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
“The writing is brilliant and the depth of feeling is unparalleled. It ranges from sex to friendship to gender, from the big questions to the smaller ones. It’s emotional, dramatic and shows that Bell is a writer with many talents.”
STEPHANIE QUIJANO, GOODREADS REVIEWER
“Cakewalk is a fabulous novel - both deep and light, a page-turner with sexy banter that also engages with racism, transphobia, and workplace politics.”
amanda greene, GOODREADS REVIEWER
“Douglas Bell’s CAKEWALK hit me like a gorgeous day when the forecast calls for rain. In its particulars, I’ve never read a story quite like this one—boy meets girl, girl is trans, boy overcomes all sorts of obstacles (societal, familial, interpersonal) and loves girl despite every one of his own self-sabotaging barriers.”
HAILEY SCHNEIDER, GOODREADS REVIEWER
“The novel starts with a heavy weight on the protagonist’s shoulders, and the journey is learning what it means to free himself of the burden to find truth and happiness.”
GYALTEN LEKDEN, GOODREADS REVIEWER
“I am grateful to BookSirens and Bumbershoot Press for giving me an advanced reader’s copy of the new fiction book, Cakewalk. I also want to thank its author Douglas Bell for writing this book about these difficult subjects in society today: racism, sexism, homophobia, and LGBTQIA+ issues.”
goodreads reviewer
About the Author
Hey there, I'm Douglas Bell, a fiction writer based in the bustling city of Houston, Texas. I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including the teachings of Buddha and the Dalai Lama, as well as the powerful storytelling of James Baldwin.
Fun fact about me: I actually started my career with an engineering degree, but eventually pursued a business degree to fuel my passion for entrepreneurship and creativity. I started telling stories as a magician before launching my career as a writer.
When I'm not writing, you can usually find me hitting the gym, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, or staying up to date with the latest fashion trends. I also love to host friends and family for lively gatherings.
My work often explores themes of social justice, and as an African American writer, I strive to bring diverse perspectives to the forefront.
From the Blog
Special Causes and Organizations
"There is no more powerful force than a people steeped in their history. And there is no higher cause than honoring our struggle and ancestors by remembering". Lonnie G. Bunch III, Director of the Smithsonian Institution.