I’ve been reading so many edgy things recently, I really needed a break with something sweet, soft, and adorable. With a cover like that, I knew Cupcake was just the thing I needed and honestly, I wish I had a book like this when I was in high school.

Ariel, more commonly referred to as Cupcake because of her obsession with baking, is nominated to her high school’s homecoming court. And in this small Georgia town, that’s a big deal, and not only because she’s fat. For seniors, there are four princesses and princes, so what are the odds that Ariel is going to be paired with super hot, super broody Rhys Castle?

Better than she thinks! Despite being willing to trade princes, Rhys refuses. The pair bond over the homecoming festivities, and as Ariel learns more about Rhys, the more she’s in danger of letting her heart loose.

Cupcake was so cute I actively let out squeals of cuteness overload. O’Gorman referenced many popular things that I just so happen to love dearly myself (I yelled when there was a reference to the musical Hairspray). There was also a shout out to the ACOTAR series which I thought was really cute. Because Ariel is a hopeless romantic, there are also a handful of movie references, rom-coms specifically. It gave the book a very meta feel, like O’Gorman was trying to make us forget it’s a book and more like real life. There’s also a lot of “this kind of thing doesn’t happen in real life” which is a bizarre feeling because, well, we’re reading it in a book- and that’s not real life either.

I think O’Gorman went a little overboard on trying to make this kind of scenario for fat girls- whether it’s getting the hot quarterback or being nominated to court- seem attainable. It’s nice, but doesn’t change the inherent fatphobia a lot of teens face.

I like the characters for the most part, even jf they seemed kind of one dimensional. Ariel’s whole personality is baking, Rhys’ is being mysterious. But, unlike most books I’ve read recently, the dude characters really bring out different parts of the main characters. I especially liked the relationship between Ariel and her mom. Her mom is so sweet and fun and understanding. Not to mention, she’s so obsessed with Disney she named her only daughter after The Little Mermaid. Ariel’s best friend also forces her to be more adventurous and makes her think about how she sees herself. Since the book is told from Ariel’s perspective, it’s hard to get a full read on Rhys. He has a dry sense of humor and is pretty serious for being a high schooler, but he has a soft side he only lets Ariel see.

The plot is fairly surface and straightforward, and O’Gorman didn’t stray far from its premise. From my experience, homecoming is usually only a big deal in the week leading up to the dance because of stuff like spirit week, pep rallies, and the homecoming game, so it was interesting to see what bits she added in to make it a whole month long event.

Despite the warm feeling Cupcake gave me, there were some surface level things that bothered me. One was O’Gorman’s severe overuse of text fillers like “ugh” and “gah.” I’m not a fan of speech onomatopoeia being incorporated into books; it just seems kind of like a lazy approach to me. Also, O’Gorman makes up her own term- “fatist”- to describe Ariel’s experiences with fatphobia. Obviously, there is already a term for microaggressions and hate geared toward people- fatphobia- that her refusal to use it somehow cheapens the experience. She was probably going for a similar term to the other “-ists” out there, but it is wholly unnecessary. O’Gorman also dances around the word “fat.” Fat is an adjective. It is a descriptor and does not inherently mean anything bad. Saying “I am fat” is not a slam to myself- it’s simply a truth.

I get that Ariel is comfortable in her body, but that doesn’t mean she’s immune to the world’s fatphobia. I’m confident, but I still have moments, days, where I hate my body and words carry a little more power. And that’s okay. We don’t have to wear armor 24/7. Ariel’s seeming ignorance as to why she doesn’t feel right or deserving of romance or attention is unrealistic. As a fat person, I’ve spent plenty of time thinking of those same things, and the reasoning is simple: I don’t feel like I deserve it because of my size because of how fat people are generally treated. Despite my comfort or confidence. I find it unbelievable Ariel is totally ignorant of fatphobia.

I have stated before that fat-centric books don’t always have to write about the trauma fat people experience, but O’Gorman starts to talk about it and then refuses to engage, and that’s where my problems lie.

Putting all that aside, Cupcake is an adorable read, and it’ll probably get added to my list of comforting titles. Plus, the chapters are super shirt so it’s a quick read!

It's a delightful young adult romance novel that will put a smile on your face. The story is sweet and savory, and all the things I love. We have a main character, Ariel, who loves to bake, watches a lot of rom-coms, have no interest in Homecoming, and doesn't want to be a princess. You can't help but love her. She deserves a happily-ever-after and she might just get it, as long as she doesn't let the world pull her down.
Ariel can't believe that people voted for her to be a Homecoming Princess. Not only that, but she is paired up with Rhys as her Prince. He is only the hottest guy in her school. Although he seems to be a rude person. When the month long Homecoming tradition starts, she has no hope of actually having fun, but soon she will find out that the school spirit can be addictive.
Overall, I find this story endearing and thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend to all romance fans.

Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Le pondría 4,5 estrellas si se pudiera. Disfruté mucho mucho la historia.

A cada capítulo yo podía imaginar una película en mi cabeza, realmente me encantaría ver Cupcake como una producción de Netflix, idealmente con Noah Centineo como protagonista.

Pese a que la historia busca romper con los clichés (protagonistas delgadas, o protagonistas rellenitas que tiene muchos complejos, el bad boy solo se puede fijar en la protagonista luego de que ella cambia su imagen para verse "más bonita", la chica mala que es mala con todos solo por que quiere causar daño, etc.), sin embargo creo que cae en otros. Aún así debo decir que no me molesta leer clichés, es más hay muchos que disfruto.

Este libro me hizo sentir el corazón calentito con los primeros capítulos, las relaciones entre todos los personajes son tan sanas y lindas de leer que llega a dar gusto. El libro esta ideal para leerlo en la adolescencia y darse cuenta que muchos de los estereotipos que se ven en la literatura en general no tienen por qué ser siempre así. Hay de todo en la vida.

Ahora, hablando más sobre la historia. me pareció interesante presentar a la protagonista a través de sus aficiones, como lo son: hornear pasteles u otras comidas dulces, y ver películas y series de romance como si se le fuera la vida en ello. Ariel es una chica con unos kilitos de más que no se apena por ello ni deja que eso marque todas sus decisiones en la vida, lleva una vida tranquila y feliz, acompañada siempre por su mejor amiga y contando con el apoyo y amor de su madre continuamente. Su vida da un giro inesperado cuando su nombre sale seleccionado para ser una de las cuatro "PRINCESAS" de la escuela a la que asiste (electas por votación popular). De ahí en más, Ariel debe salir de su zona de confort para convivir con personas nuevas y hacer cosas nuevas. Es en este contexto que conoce a Rhys, su "PRÍNCIPE", pues ambos son emparejados para llevar acabo juntos las actividades de la corte para el gran evento conocido como Homecoming.

Rhys es un chico muy popular, que a simple vista podría pasar por un bad boy, pero que sin embargo es muy dulce, atento, honesto y esforzado. Ariel va notando esto con el paso de los días y puede que comience a enamorarse de él... ¿o él de ella?

Por favor lean esta historia para conocer cómo se desarrolla y culmina. Vale totalmente la pena.

I loved this sweet, heart-warming story! Be warned: there are a lot of references to pop culture and is wrought with cliches. If you’re like me and devour these types of books, then don’t miss this one! I loved Ariel’s realness and there are so many swoon-worthy moments between her and Rhys.

This was my first Cookie O’Gorman book, but it won’t be my last! She did a great job capturing the struggles of both Ariel and Rhys. It was endearing to see a hot, popular Quarterback struggle with insecurities. It was a nice balance between light-hearted and heavy moments.

Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Teen for an advanced copy!

Cupcake by Cookie O'Gorman is a fun contemporary YA novel with a strong heroine, interesting hero, and an enjoyable story with enough romance and humor to make you smile.

This book was honestly a miss for me.

I could see what the author was trying to do- but I don't think they quite succeeded. The main leads feel fake, especially Rhys, and I just couldn't connect or buy into their relationship at all.

The pacing was off as well, and the whole book just seemed too long.

Not a fan, but I could see many people enjoying this high school romance.

Ariel's name gets thrown into the running for Homecoming Court unbeknownst to her. She becomes a Homecoming Princess and is paired with a grumpy popular boy she already had a run-in with. Though now Rhys is acting strangely and she isn't sure how to be around him.

Cupcake was a very cute YA romance where there is a plus-sized girl instead of the usual. I liked that it didn't shy away from food like some romances with bigger women do. It leaned into her love of baking, making no apologies. Rhys was absolutely adorable and definitely a keeper no matter who you are. The fact that they bonded over a certain popular book series tickled me. Hint: his full name is Rhysand. The best part was that she wasn't submitted as a prank and given a "makeover" to be pretty, people genuinely liked her and thought she should be nominated. There was a lot to love about this book. For me, this was a 4/5.

If you like broody sweet guys, best friends who see your worth, or want to support that not everyone has the same body type, this is the one for you.

I received a digital copy of this book free from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Cookie O’Gorman is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors and her books never fail to leave me amazed with her storytelling skills. She further proved this with her newest book “Cupcake”! This book was such a fun read and always left me in a great mood! This romantic comedy is a masterpiece that is more than just humor and romance. This story breaks society’s view of having a perfect body and instead has a plus-sized main character. Body positivity, high school romance, and friendship are all themes that prevail through this story.

“Cupcake” follows Ariel as she gets picked to be on the homecoming court. Ariel never liked the spotlight and instead prefers to stay home and bake. Ariel gets paired with Rhys, the high school’s quarter back, as her homecoming prince. Although Ariel is comfortable in her own skin, Rhys seems to be the only person to make her confidence waver. As they spend time together Ariel learns there is more to Rhys than meets the eye. Will this homecoming pairing find out, more than just friendship are on the cards for them? Find out in Cookie O’Gorman’s “Cupcake” coming out November 2nd!

This book was a cute, slow burn YA rocmcom. I may have been too old for it, because all the 'old' movie references made me cringe, and it was a little cheesey for me, but it is a solid read for younger teens or teens looking for a clean romance.

Oh good lord this was so adorable.
I found Cupcake to be totally sweet and full of subverted clichés that just made it a delight to read.
I love the fact that 'mean girl' had her own issue and wasn't inherently evil. I love that Cupcake herself was body positive but well aware of other's judgements. Her list of why Rhys might be asking her out was hilarious, if a little sad.
I fell in love with Rhys and his nuanced character, his flaws and the fact he was an SJM stan.
I also liked the fact that most of the parents in this book were supportive of their children and not absent or mean.
As someone who loves baking and movies as much as Cupcake herself, i agreed with all of her pairing choices too.
In all this was a tasty read and one definitely worth sinking your teeth into.

Wow - its not often I read a book in 24 hours anymore but I 100% did.

I was given a copy of Cupcake by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an unbiased review and these thoughts are my own.

Cupcake is a beautiful funny and curvaceous high school senior who has just so happened to be paired with the most popular guy in school for homecoming court. The story revolves around them both getting to know each other but also getting to know themselves. As a curvy girl I am drawn to books where the main protagonist is curvy, and this book did not disappoint me in the slightest.

Well written, well thought out and very well received, I loved it.

I liked this one, but felt that parts of it were super cliche. Like how she describes Rhys sometimes. Don't get me wrong i would swoon over a guy like that too; he reads, he's a gentleman, & a jock who is sweet! I liked their relationship and how they got to know each other. I liked how they showed Ariel as a curvy girl can find love! I liked the relationship change with her and Lana also.
Cute YA rom-com, that I think a lot of teens will like!

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC!

It is an adorable read. I had fun reading it. Light hearted and easy to read. The author knows how to write beautifully.

This was an adorable rom-com that reminded me of the sweet teen rom-coms of the 90s. I loved Ariel, the plus-sized, confident heroine. This is the type of book that I wish existed when I was a teen. I loved that even though Ariel was confident, but still struggled with what other people at her school would think about her. It was a great message about accepting and loving yourself, and believing other's can love you.

I love that not only did this book tackle body positivity and self confidence with Ariel, it also talked a bit about bullying with Rhys, and eating disorders with Toni and Ariel. Rhys was such a sweet character. I loved how the author showed a "hot guy" liking a different type of girl.

One of the things I struggle with in YA novels is the dropping of the "love bomb". In this book, I felt that it was just to fast for me.

Overall this was a good book. Even though this was my first Cookie O'Gorman book, it will definitely not be my last! I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Entangled Teen for an open and honest review. All opinions are 100% mine.

This was so adorable! It was filled with romcom moments that made me swoon. I loved Ariel - she was plus-size & confident but still suffered from the same body issues that we all experience. I thought Rhys was a fantastic leading man - silent & brooding, but a secret marshmallow. And check out that gorgeous cover!

Cupcake is a body positive sugary sweet fun high school romcom. What first drew me to the book is the pretty and bright cover. I don't usually read a lot of contemporary. And this is my first Cookie O'Gorman book. But I will definitely be checking out more. And it makes me so happy to see more plus-sized rep in YA. I would have loved to have these kind of books when I was in high school.

***Thank you to Entangled Teen and Netgalley for providing me with an arc.***

The type of book I wish I could have read back in high school.

I loved that this is so body positive and has a curvier female lead who is confident within herself. She actually says she loves her body, although admitting sometimes she still struggles as it's how her peers see her that gives her the moments of self doubt which I'm sure a lot of females can understand even outside of high school unfortunately.

I think this is a great book for teens especially (although I still had fun reading it as an adult), as it touched on topics about how girls should build each other up, not tear each other down and briefly on ED's and mental health for guys as well. The messages I got from it were to love yourself and that no one is perfect - we all have stuff going on, even if things might seem perfect on the surface.

I definitely feel that there needs to be more books with plus size leading ladies, it is so refreshing to read about and I don't think it focussed too much on the weight issue - things like this are a big topic to teens and young adults and it had a positive spin on it.

Also liked the supportive characters of Ariel's best friend, Toni, and Ariel's mum who encouraged her and were always there to shower her with love. And of course the love interest, Rhys, who was very sweet and genuine. There was a bit of a twist with the big gesture, the girl making it to the guy, which was cringey but kind of had me cheering along.

4⭐

Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Teen and the author for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.

Title: Cupcake by @cookieogorman
Genre: YA/Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Verdict: Firstly thanks to @cookieogorman, @entangledteen and @netgalley for letting me read this fantastic and deliciously delightful novel. I am so pleased to see plus sized women as the main characters in YA lately… it’s about Time! This book is perfect for fans of @andimjulie! Not only does it touch on the prejudice faced when being plus sized, but, it looks at teenage status quo, mental health and it gives us an in-depth look at eating disorder culture in general. I loved Ariel and Toni two very strong characters who are able to see past the desire for popularity - I think we all need a Toni and an Ariel in our lives, for me they truly embodied female empowerment. I loved Rhys too and his ability to see past superficial beauty and see Ariel’s bubbly personality - as a gay woman I couldn’t help but swoon - praise goes Ms Gorman for initiating a conversation about teenage boys/ Men’s Mental Health as well as incorporating bits of pop culture to reflect the times we live in. (I loved that @therealsjmaas got a mention) This novel has a bit of everything, from Rom Com moments to High school drama making this book perfect for Mean Girls lovers and for those who have an appreciation for old Hollywood cinema. But don’t disregard this as some fluffy chick lit, there are some dark themes not too in-depth for young or sensitive readers. Overall, a very enjoyable and heartwarming story about one girls positive spin on her relationship with food (without falling into the all-too-familiar fat Friend troupe) and learning to love herself before anybody else. It’s refreshing to see the happily ever after genre being reinvented for the modern romantic generation, I think everybody needs to remember to hold on to the magic of a HEA in tough times. This is perfect for @disney fans and those beginning to read YA especially since a lot of new YA fiction can get too heavy and graphic. I think the one message I would take away from this very sweet and comforting book is That we are all royalty regardless. 💗👸🏻| #booksofinstagram
#readingtime
#readersofig
#netgalleyreads #bookreviewersofinstagram

Thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved the representation in this book. It was great to see a YA book centred on the issues represented in the book. Cupcake and Rhys were two people I was constantly rooting for throughout the book. The book would have benefited from more depth to the characters and the plot line. I found the plot very predictable throughout. It turned me slightly off the book. The characters seemed very one dimensional too.

The baking element really added to the originality of the story. It was something I absolutely loved to see as it’s not a hobby shown much in YA books. I truly appreciated the author including it as many people love to bake but it’s not shown much in books.

Overall this was such a cute read and I really recommend it as a comfort read for fans of YA contemporary romance novels.

Cupcake is a cute high school romance that features a plus-sized princess and a quiet brooding quarterback.

Our female lead Ariel AKA Cupcake is living her best baker life when she gets nominated for homecoming queen. Thinking it's a joke, but finding out people actually voted for her makes her start questioning things she was confident about before. Cupcake gets paired up with Rhys and they learn they have a lot more in common than they originally thought.

We get to see Cupcake be confident in who she is (size and all) but also some points where she questions her confidence, the same goes for Rhys. Each character is very complex and I really enjoyed that we got to see the dimension for both of them.

While this was a super cute and quick read, the main question is "Is everything going as good or are things better than they seem?"

I thought their names were cute since SJM was brought up as well as Disney references.

Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Published for the advanced review copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.