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Reviews tagging 'Panic attacks/disorders'
Paris Daillencourt Is about to Crumble by Alexis Hall
106 reviews
blewballoon's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I know it's kind of the point, but I had such a hard time with the main character. Usually I find the supporting characters in Alexis Hall books feel very engaging and fleshed out, but I didn't feel that enough here, and it was more missed because Paris himself was tough to connect with. Still a good book and a fun series, but not my favorite entry.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Racism and Abandonment
astropova's review against another edition
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I'm glad Paris finally got the help to work on himself that he desperately needed, though I wish it could have happened a lot earlier in the book. If I had known how long it would take, I may have DNF'd the book earlier because it was a bit awful to sit there and suffer through it too.
I also thought that some of the parts set at the baking show seemed a little abbreviated. At some points, there wasn't even anything important happening, but the plot timeline still had to get moved on.
Loved Morag! So cool to have such a positive depiction of a fat (side-)character!
I also thought that some of the parts set at the baking show seemed a little abbreviated. At some points, there wasn't even anything important happening, but the plot timeline still had to get moved on.
Loved Morag! So cool to have such a positive depiction of a fat (side-)character!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Abandonment
Minor: Homophobia, Racism, Xenophobia, and Islamophobia
Huge warning for anxiety. The firstaoifeprettypurplepolkadots's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Panic attacks/disorders, and Islamophobia
jkneebone's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Paris Daillencourt is a young man with extreme anxiety (although he isn’t aware of it at the beginning of the book), who is entered by his best friend/housemate for the competition show Bake Expectations (essentially GBBO). While on the show, he meets and develops feelings for fellow competitor Tariq, but at the same time his anxiety spirals, threatening both his success on the show and his new relationship.
This was an engaging, quick read. The descriptions of Paris’s anxiety were tough to read and almost constant for the first 2/3 or so of the book -which I say more as a warning if that’s the kind of thing that will bother you. I felt for Paris and it didn’t impede my reading experience, but I wished that we’d been able to see Paris get help sooner. While the way the book was structured made sense with the conceit of the show, the pacing felt a little skewed to me. I spent a bit too much of the first bit wondering why no one had ever suggested Paris find helpand why Tariq was still with him despite not seeming to get much from the relationship, although obviously his patience ran out eventually - one of my biggest pet peeves in romance is when you can’t understand why both characters want the other, even if one is objectively more of a mess. , and wished that we’d gotten a bit more of Paris (and especially his interactions with Tariq) once he got his shit together. Still, it was hard to watch - read? - Paris clearly suffering and not knowing that he could get help. Some of this was addressed (I appreciated the explanation that Morag thought him going on the show would help build his confidence, misguided as it was) but I was still confused as to why no one had suggested it to him sooner, especially after Tariq suggested that he might have anxiety.
I loved all the side characters that filled up the Bake Expectations cast and crew - they were so funny and fun, as were Tariq’s family (in the one scene we got to meet them, lol). Tariq himself was so sweet and brightened up every page he was on. I really enjoyed the arc of the baking competition, even if I wish we had spent more time with the characters after it had filmed. I didn’t realize that the MCs were 20 when I bought the book and probably wouldn’t have bought it had I realized, but I managed to suspend my disbelief where necessary 😂 Final spoiler-y quibble:how did no one realize who Paris’s parents were once he was on the show?? I was expecting some internet troll or super fan to turn that up and use it against him, and/or for that to become a catalyst for his parents to finally contact him - wouldn’t you think that their son going on a well regarded reality show is the kind of thing these presumably very image-conscious people would want to know about and/or manage? But I digress.
Despite my complaints about the plot/pacing, I really did enjoy this book! I read it in a few days because I wanted to know what happened. If you like baking (and won’t be triggered by the descriptions of anxiety) this is definitely one worth checking out!
This was an engaging, quick read. The descriptions of Paris’s anxiety were tough to read and almost constant for the first 2/3 or so of the book -which I say more as a warning if that’s the kind of thing that will bother you. I felt for Paris and it didn’t impede my reading experience, but I wished that we’d been able to see Paris get help sooner. While the way the book was structured made sense with the conceit of the show, the pacing felt a little skewed to me. I spent a bit too much of the first bit wondering why no one had ever suggested Paris find help
I loved all the side characters that filled up the Bake Expectations cast and crew - they were so funny and fun, as were Tariq’s family (in the one scene we got to meet them, lol). Tariq himself was so sweet and brightened up every page he was on. I really enjoyed the arc of the baking competition, even if I wish we had spent more time with the characters after it had filmed. I didn’t realize that the MCs were 20 when I bought the book and probably wouldn’t have bought it had I realized, but I managed to suspend my disbelief where necessary 😂 Final spoiler-y quibble:
Despite my complaints about the plot/pacing, I really did enjoy this book! I read it in a few days because I wanted to know what happened. If you like baking (and won’t be triggered by the descriptions of anxiety) this is definitely one worth checking out!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Islamophobia and Abandonment
kj468's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
hobbithopeful's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Alexis Hall has written an exceptionally funny story where queer romance meets The Great British Bake Off, and added delightfully messy characters that you can't help but love.
When Paris's self professed fat Glaswegian sex goddess roommate, Morag, enters him into Bake Expectations, he doesn't expect do well at all. Except he does. He does really well. And then he meets fellow competitor sparkly Tariq, with his beautiful varnished nails and assured sense of style. If only Paris had any self esteem and could stop worrying himself in circles about well, everything.
Paris Daillencourt is About to Crumble follows Paris's journey through competing on the nations favorite bake show, while he tries to push past his crippling anxiety.
Favorite Moments: The character banter, food descriptions, Grace Forsythe!
Least Favorite: All the baking talk made me so hungry! I would have loved some closure on Paris's parents. (Though I understand it is more realistic this way.)
I have seen so many mixed reviews in regards to Paris, his general personality, and mental health struggle. I must admit dear reader, that I do have biases towards his overall character and growth. I have struggled with what ifs and the paralyzing anxiety that comes with it. It is incredibly draining to be around someone who needs constant emotional support and reassurance, especially when they haven't gotten any help for them problems. I think that a lot of people are missing that Paris did get help. More important he is trying. Trying to do better, and quite honestly he is in a much better place mentally then at the beginning of the book. I really liked how Hall depicted Paris and Tariq's relationship and how Tariq established boundaries. I also thought the microaggressions that Tariq faced were masterfully well done, microaggressions are always so frustrating because it feels impossible to call people out on them.
This is the second book in the Winner Bakes All series and the second book of Alexis Hall's that I have read. Easily read as a standalone, I didn't read the first book and had no trouble following. Alexis Hall is an extremely talented writer, no matter the pov or character you always feel like you are experiencing what the character is, be it a regency era romance, or a light hearted baking story. He now stands as one of my current favorite authors(I love consistency), I can't wait to read more by him.
The Cover
I overall think that this is a good composition, and I do like it, though there are a few elements I don't love.
First the overall use of a rainbow sliced cake is a great nod to the fact that this is a queer book. (Sometimes I go to a bookstore and it's hard to tell if a book is apart of the LGBT or not!) I think it is really cute how Tariq and Paris are both leaning against it, each standing in a way that conveys their personality.
The polka dot background seems a bit messy, and I feel it could have easily been a solid color or less busy.
I adore how the font follows the cake lines and seems to be going in and out, it adds depth and great character.
With how many times Tariq's fashion and overall style is mentioned, it would have been nice to see that conveyed through his outfit. While he is dressed nicely, it is missing his flamboyant and colorful sense of style present in the book. ALSO! Tariq's nails are our first introduction to his character, and a defining point throughout the story. I can't believe his nails aren't painted his signature rainbow color, or another bold pattern.
Paris is taller then Tariq but his art seems less like he was drawn tall and more like he was enlarged to be bigger, with some of his proportions looking a bit off as a result.
Overall I think it is a very cute cover, and works so well with the story and theme.
Cover design and illustration by Elizabeth Turner Stokes
When Paris's self professed fat Glaswegian sex goddess roommate, Morag, enters him into Bake Expectations, he doesn't expect do well at all. Except he does. He does really well. And then he meets fellow competitor sparkly Tariq, with his beautiful varnished nails and assured sense of style. If only Paris had any self esteem and could stop worrying himself in circles about well, everything.
Paris Daillencourt is About to Crumble follows Paris's journey through competing on the nations favorite bake show, while he tries to push past his crippling anxiety.
Favorite Moments: The character banter, food descriptions, Grace Forsythe!
Least Favorite: All the baking talk made me so hungry! I would have loved some closure on Paris's parents. (Though I understand it is more realistic this way.)
I have seen so many mixed reviews in regards to Paris, his general personality, and mental health struggle. I must admit dear reader, that I do have biases towards his overall character and growth. I have struggled with what ifs and the paralyzing anxiety that comes with it. It is incredibly draining to be around someone who needs constant emotional support and reassurance, especially when they haven't gotten any help for them problems. I think that a lot of people are missing that Paris did get help. More important he is trying. Trying to do better, and quite honestly he is in a much better place mentally then at the beginning of the book. I really liked how Hall depicted Paris and Tariq's relationship and how Tariq established boundaries. I also thought the microaggressions that Tariq faced were masterfully well done, microaggressions are always so frustrating because it feels impossible to call people out on them.
This is the second book in the Winner Bakes All series and the second book of Alexis Hall's that I have read. Easily read as a standalone, I didn't read the first book and had no trouble following. Alexis Hall is an extremely talented writer, no matter the pov or character you always feel like you are experiencing what the character is, be it a regency era romance, or a light hearted baking story. He now stands as one of my current favorite authors(I love consistency), I can't wait to read more by him.
The Cover
I overall think that this is a good composition, and I do like it, though there are a few elements I don't love.
First the overall use of a rainbow sliced cake is a great nod to the fact that this is a queer book. (Sometimes I go to a bookstore and it's hard to tell if a book is apart of the LGBT or not!) I think it is really cute how Tariq and Paris are both leaning against it, each standing in a way that conveys their personality.
The polka dot background seems a bit messy, and I feel it could have easily been a solid color or less busy.
I adore how the font follows the cake lines and seems to be going in and out, it adds depth and great character.
With how many times Tariq's fashion and overall style is mentioned, it would have been nice to see that conveyed through his outfit. While he is dressed nicely, it is missing his flamboyant and colorful sense of style present in the book. ALSO! Tariq's nails are our first introduction to his character, and a defining point throughout the story. I can't believe his nails aren't painted his signature rainbow color, or another bold pattern.
Paris is taller then Tariq but his art seems less like he was drawn tall and more like he was enlarged to be bigger, with some of his proportions looking a bit off as a result.
Overall I think it is a very cute cover, and works so well with the story and theme.
Cover design and illustration by Elizabeth Turner Stokes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Bullying
Minor: Homophobia, Islamophobia, and Religious bigotry
mlm7's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I love the Bake Expectations series!! So cute and charming!! Can’t wait for the next book!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders
jennp28's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
All the heart eyes for this one. Sometimes reading about characters with anxiety triggers my own but in this case it was ok - possibly because it was so *much* and specific to Paris. Loved the Muslim representation and that he doesn’t want to have sex before marriage
Can’t wait for the next season of Bake Expectations!
Can’t wait for the next season of Bake Expectations!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness and Panic attacks/disorders
ehmannky's review against another edition
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
If you go into this book expecting a swoon-worthy romance to be the front and center plot, you’re probably going to be disappointed. I think this series is better classified as contemporary instead of contemporary romance, but it’s still good. I think reading a book where someone who had a mental illness actually fucks up and has to work his way back to health, restoring relationships, and finding himself is good actually and I think Hall really did a good job writing a 20 year old going navigating parental abandonment and a mental health crisis. It’s a well-written book, the anxiety felt real (as someone with a tendency to catastrophize, I really related to a lot of what Paris went through), and I think the romantic reconciliation felt appropriate (a very HFN instead of a HEA) for two twenty year olds who both fucked up (and honestly a lot of reviews on here sort of gloss over the fact Tariq did approach Paris as a project to be fixed and then backed out not all that gracefully when the problem could not be solved by love). It’s well done even if it’s not the romance I think the cover sort of builds it up to be. I do think you should mind the page full of trigger warnings in this one and kind of bow out if they’re not for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, and Abandonment
Moderate: Racism and Xenophobia
amberinpieces's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Mental illness, and Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Bullying, Homophobia, Racism, Antisemitism, Islamophobia, Medical content, and Alcohol