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Cream and Punishment
Revenge is a dish best served cold.
You’d think, as a baker, Dekker Piper would be able to avoid burning things. Apparently that doesn’t apply to her personal life, which just went up in flames. Moving next door to him is just the icing on the cake.
Max Fuentes. Hunky. Charming. Hates her guts.
Yeah, him. The man whose life she ruined shares a wall with her now. And if that wasn’t punishment enough, she can’t seem to avoid him. It’s only a matter of time before he exacts his revenge and the suspense is killing her.
When he passes on every chance to humiliate her—and she’s given him plenty—she wonders whether she’s misjudged him. And if that’s the case, can the sparks between them possibly lead to something more, or will she crash and burn yet again?
Cream and Punishment is a feel-good romantic comedy that will bring all the swoony, sizzling chemistry while keeping the bedroom door closed. It is the first in the Smitten in the Mitten series of interconnected standalone novels.
You’d think, as a baker, Dekker Piper would be able to avoid burning things. Apparently that doesn’t apply to her personal life, which just went up in flames. Moving next door to him is just the icing on the cake.
Max Fuentes. Hunky. Charming. Hates her guts.
Yeah, him. The man whose life she ruined shares a wall with her now. And if that wasn’t punishment enough, she can’t seem to avoid him. It’s only a matter of time before he exacts his revenge and the suspense is killing her.
When he passes on every chance to humiliate her—and she’s given him plenty—she wonders whether she’s misjudged him. And if that’s the case, can the sparks between them possibly lead to something more, or will she crash and burn yet again?
Cream and Punishment is a feel-good romantic comedy that will bring all the swoony, sizzling chemistry while keeping the bedroom door closed. It is the first in the Smitten in the Mitten series of interconnected standalone novels.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2025
16 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
February 7, 2025
Can we talk about how cool it is to get an ARC from a high school classmate?!? Thank you to Brianne and her team for letting me read Cream and Punishment and getting to experience these fun, unique and amazing characters. This is a feel good romance that reminds you what being human really is. I cannot wait for more of her books
January 13, 2026
Cream and Punishment by Brianne Ritchie Córdova Review
Cream and Punishment by Brianne Ritchie Córdova is a feel-good, clean romantic comedy and the first book in the Smitten in the Mitten series. The story centers on Dekker Piper, a wonderfully awkward baker whose personal life has just gone up in flames, ironically just as she was getting her pastry career on track. Moving into a new apartment feels like a fresh start until she discovers her new next-door neighbor is Max Fuentes, the hunky, charming man whose life she once accidentally derailed, and whom she assumes hates her with a passion. Dekker’s overthinking mind spirals into comedic chaos as Max dodges opportunities to humiliate her while Dekker is convinced he’s plotting revenge, even as undeniable sparks begin to fly between them. This charming enemies-to-lovers arc wraps sweet chemistry, witty banter, and warm small-town feels into a cozy closed-door romance that keeps laughter and heart at the forefront.
From the start, I was utterly invested in Dekker’s delightfully chaotic yet deeply relatable world: her insecurities, her vivid imagination, her baking triumphs and mishaps all made her feel like someone I knew, not just someone I was reading about. Max’s calm confidence plays beautifully against her nervous energy and self-doubt, creating a slow-burn connection that had me grinning at every awkward encounter and subtle shift in their dynamic.
I loved how the story didn’t just skate over their attraction, but let it grow through quirky moments, supportive friendships, and genuine emotional vulnerability that felt rich without ever dragging into melodrama. Dekker’s humor, resilience, and evolving self-awareness made her a joy to follow, and Max’s steady kindness made me root for him right alongside her. While the overarching premise is classic rom-com territory, Cream and Punishment delivers it with fresh voice, heartfelt laughs, and a sweetness that lingered with me long after I closed the book.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Because the delightful characters, sharp humor, and tender emotional growth made this a thoroughly uplifting, cozy romance I didn’t want to end.
Cream and Punishment by Brianne Ritchie Córdova is a feel-good, clean romantic comedy and the first book in the Smitten in the Mitten series. The story centers on Dekker Piper, a wonderfully awkward baker whose personal life has just gone up in flames, ironically just as she was getting her pastry career on track. Moving into a new apartment feels like a fresh start until she discovers her new next-door neighbor is Max Fuentes, the hunky, charming man whose life she once accidentally derailed, and whom she assumes hates her with a passion. Dekker’s overthinking mind spirals into comedic chaos as Max dodges opportunities to humiliate her while Dekker is convinced he’s plotting revenge, even as undeniable sparks begin to fly between them. This charming enemies-to-lovers arc wraps sweet chemistry, witty banter, and warm small-town feels into a cozy closed-door romance that keeps laughter and heart at the forefront.
From the start, I was utterly invested in Dekker’s delightfully chaotic yet deeply relatable world: her insecurities, her vivid imagination, her baking triumphs and mishaps all made her feel like someone I knew, not just someone I was reading about. Max’s calm confidence plays beautifully against her nervous energy and self-doubt, creating a slow-burn connection that had me grinning at every awkward encounter and subtle shift in their dynamic.
I loved how the story didn’t just skate over their attraction, but let it grow through quirky moments, supportive friendships, and genuine emotional vulnerability that felt rich without ever dragging into melodrama. Dekker’s humor, resilience, and evolving self-awareness made her a joy to follow, and Max’s steady kindness made me root for him right alongside her. While the overarching premise is classic rom-com territory, Cream and Punishment delivers it with fresh voice, heartfelt laughs, and a sweetness that lingered with me long after I closed the book.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Because the delightful characters, sharp humor, and tender emotional growth made this a thoroughly uplifting, cozy romance I didn’t want to end.
April 15, 2025
Y’all. Y’all. I legitimately cackled, snorted, giggled, and kicked my feet with joy at the utter perfection of this book! Do not sleep on this one or you’ll miss the chance to meet the most adorably awkward couple ever! 💜 Delightful, 10/10, no notes!
February 13, 2025
I was pulled into Brianne’s witty story from her first page. I love her tongue-in-cheek writing style and her laugh-out-loud depictions of brutally awkward scenes. I love the no-spice aspect and the way she used all my favorite tropes. Cream and Punishment is a feel-good read that kept me laughing, snorting, and smiling all the way to the very last word.
Thank you to Conquest Publishing and Brianne Ritchie Córdova for the ARC.
Dekker Piper is awkward with her friends, in her job as a skilled baker, with her forbidden crush, and in life as a whole. Her crippling self-doubt holds her back until her gorgeous neighbor, Max (whose life she happened to “ruin” a few years previously), shows her how to believe in herself and rise above the noise in her head to succeed. He helps her become the best version of herself. Where he is easygoing, she is slightly manic. Where he is unbothered, she is BOTHERED. They perfectly complement each other.
Dekker is blessed with a supportive friend/family/work group that challenge her to do hard things and realize that she doesn’t have to do it alone. They help her find her voice in the best ways.
As expected, the story has a very happy and extremely satisfying ending. I’d love to see the characters again someday! Thank you for a great story, Brianne! You have a brand new fan who’s eager to keep reading your books.
Thank you to Conquest Publishing and Brianne Ritchie Córdova for the ARC.
Dekker Piper is awkward with her friends, in her job as a skilled baker, with her forbidden crush, and in life as a whole. Her crippling self-doubt holds her back until her gorgeous neighbor, Max (whose life she happened to “ruin” a few years previously), shows her how to believe in herself and rise above the noise in her head to succeed. He helps her become the best version of herself. Where he is easygoing, she is slightly manic. Where he is unbothered, she is BOTHERED. They perfectly complement each other.
Dekker is blessed with a supportive friend/family/work group that challenge her to do hard things and realize that she doesn’t have to do it alone. They help her find her voice in the best ways.
As expected, the story has a very happy and extremely satisfying ending. I’d love to see the characters again someday! Thank you for a great story, Brianne! You have a brand new fan who’s eager to keep reading your books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
A cute and funny read. 💕
April 16, 2025
Hi!! First, as always, thank you, Brianne Richie, for the chance of reading Cream and Punishment as another amazing ARC read at the start of my year. There are a lot of things and details I loved and enjoyed about the book; I would never finish the review if I described every single detail.
I'd like to highlight the writing of an FMC as a neurodivergent woman; it's amazing, the rhythm of the book allows us readers to follow the train of thoughts of Dekker, it's a smooth way of presenting the way of thinking and feeling of some women with ADHD, thank you, Brianne Richie.
Now, I loved how there are deep conversations between Dekker and Max; there's friendship and the development of trust by both of them, by simple conversations, which is sometimes overlooked by writers of romance.
It is awesome this book isn’t just about the MC's love for each other; it also shows their own self-development with the help and dialogues with each other, someone that really loves you encourages you to grow too.
I don't normally enjoy romance books, but this book shows a lovable face of the genre of romance, since it teaches the reader about loving yourself and each aspect of who you are.
This is an extraordinary and cozy book to read if you're starting a new hoobie every week as Max or if you're an avid reader like Deeker; you don't know who those are, you should read Cream and Punishment by Brianne Richie Córdova.
I'd like to highlight the writing of an FMC as a neurodivergent woman; it's amazing, the rhythm of the book allows us readers to follow the train of thoughts of Dekker, it's a smooth way of presenting the way of thinking and feeling of some women with ADHD, thank you, Brianne Richie.
Now, I loved how there are deep conversations between Dekker and Max; there's friendship and the development of trust by both of them, by simple conversations, which is sometimes overlooked by writers of romance.
It is awesome this book isn’t just about the MC's love for each other; it also shows their own self-development with the help and dialogues with each other, someone that really loves you encourages you to grow too.
I don't normally enjoy romance books, but this book shows a lovable face of the genre of romance, since it teaches the reader about loving yourself and each aspect of who you are.
This is an extraordinary and cozy book to read if you're starting a new hoobie every week as Max or if you're an avid reader like Deeker; you don't know who those are, you should read Cream and Punishment by Brianne Richie Córdova.
February 1, 2026
I debated between giving this one a 3 or 4 stars. I settled on 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Overall, it had a lot of fun moments that had me smiling. I enjoyed the chemistry between Max and Dekker. I liked how their relationship grew over time, starting out as "enemies" which grew into friendship. Dekker thinks he hates her because of something that happens in their past that ruins Max's life, according to her.
She ends up becoming his next door neighbor and things start to happen from there.
Parts I enjoyed:
She's a baker.
He helps her a lot.
The "snake" scene (hilarious)
Paintball
Trying Dominican Republic food
Elevator
The reasons for the 3.5 stars:
Many reviewers claimed this book would be super hilarious throughout, and I think I only laughed twice. Maybe my sense of humor is so different than most people. I guess it takes a lot for me to laugh.
I did not care for what the men were wearing for the combined Bachelor/Bachelorette party. It made me cringe so much. Blech! (Side note: They weren't dressed inappropriately or anything. I just didn't care for it, even if it was in fun.)
And the food puns and food "swear words" the FMC uses were too much for me. I've read other books with food puns that worked and weren't too plentiful, but this one just had too many. I would expect since she is a baker, she would have used baking puns. But no, many of the "swear words" and puns were not baking related at all and some were just cringey.
I think if those things wouldn't bother you, you would enjoy this romcom.
Audio Review: I thought the narrator did a great job and I enjoyed the audiobook version.
Audiobook: 4 out of 5 stars
Thank you to the audiobook publisher and author for my review copy. All thoughts are my own.
Content Guide:
Language: None-Only food "swear words", one use of donkey (FMC mentions he doesn't use the actual word donkey, but the other word), and "Jacka--" which gets interrupted by FMC
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Steamy make-outs (lip gets pulled by teeth in a sensual way), mild innuendoes
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: Moderate/Mild: Drug addiction is discussed several times by FMC because a family member was addicted (and I think died from overdose), alcohol is mentioned several times (but I don't think characters actually drink)
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Loss of loved one (past), grief, ADHD rep
Overall, it had a lot of fun moments that had me smiling. I enjoyed the chemistry between Max and Dekker. I liked how their relationship grew over time, starting out as "enemies" which grew into friendship. Dekker thinks he hates her because of something that happens in their past that ruins Max's life, according to her.
She ends up becoming his next door neighbor and things start to happen from there.
Parts I enjoyed:
She's a baker.
He helps her a lot.
The "snake" scene (hilarious)
Paintball
Trying Dominican Republic food
Elevator
The reasons for the 3.5 stars:
Many reviewers claimed this book would be super hilarious throughout, and I think I only laughed twice. Maybe my sense of humor is so different than most people. I guess it takes a lot for me to laugh.
I did not care for what the men were wearing for the combined Bachelor/Bachelorette party. It made me cringe so much. Blech! (Side note: They weren't dressed inappropriately or anything. I just didn't care for it, even if it was in fun.)
And the food puns and food "swear words" the FMC uses were too much for me. I've read other books with food puns that worked and weren't too plentiful, but this one just had too many. I would expect since she is a baker, she would have used baking puns. But no, many of the "swear words" and puns were not baking related at all and some were just cringey.
I think if those things wouldn't bother you, you would enjoy this romcom.
Audio Review: I thought the narrator did a great job and I enjoyed the audiobook version.
Audiobook: 4 out of 5 stars
Thank you to the audiobook publisher and author for my review copy. All thoughts are my own.
Content Guide:
Language: None-Only food "swear words", one use of donkey (FMC mentions he doesn't use the actual word donkey, but the other word), and "Jacka--" which gets interrupted by FMC
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Steamy make-outs (lip gets pulled by teeth in a sensual way), mild innuendoes
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: Moderate/Mild: Drug addiction is discussed several times by FMC because a family member was addicted (and I think died from overdose), alcohol is mentioned several times (but I don't think characters actually drink)
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Loss of loved one (past), grief, ADHD rep
April 1, 2025
Thank you to Conquest Publishing and Brianne Ritchie Córdova for the ARC!
an easy 5 star read
This book had me laughing out loud from the start. Poor Dekker couldn't catch a break. She says it herself, "Though, to be fair, most everything I did left a residue of awkwardness. It's a skill." Truly, the only thing that made me uncomfortable about this book was my inability to not feel secondhand embarrassment for Dekker. She tried so hard and just couldn't get a win in the first part of the book. I absolutely love how Brianne has written both of these characters. We get to see into the mind of Dekker, who learns that her struggle isn't one that she's struggling with alone. We also get to read about Max, who has his own problems, but is so incredibly kind and compassionate towards Dekker. Oddly enough, he's even kind to her when she thinks he hates her (wink wink). I also want to say how much it means when an author has written a character that you can relate to so well. There were so many parts of Dekker that I saw myself in, and I think that's an incredible thing for an author to be able to do.
I thought it was incredible how Brianne wrote about rejection sensitivity and the thought processes that Dekker experiences. The way that she feels things so strongly and how, when you're so close to something, you can't see it clearly. It was done with so much tact and care. One of her friends tells her that she's being too hard on herself, and Dekker just can't fathom that what's happening in her brain isn't also her reality.
I thought this book was the perfect mix of fun and serious, and I would recommend it to everyone. If you're a rom-com lover who wants substance and no spice, this is absolutely for you. It was a wonderful read and I can't wait for it to release so I can read it again and share my highlights with you all!
Also -- are there any Max's in the world? I'd like to find more men like him.
an easy 5 star read
This book had me laughing out loud from the start. Poor Dekker couldn't catch a break. She says it herself, "Though, to be fair, most everything I did left a residue of awkwardness. It's a skill." Truly, the only thing that made me uncomfortable about this book was my inability to not feel secondhand embarrassment for Dekker. She tried so hard and just couldn't get a win in the first part of the book. I absolutely love how Brianne has written both of these characters. We get to see into the mind of Dekker, who learns that her struggle isn't one that she's struggling with alone. We also get to read about Max, who has his own problems, but is so incredibly kind and compassionate towards Dekker. Oddly enough, he's even kind to her when she thinks he hates her (wink wink). I also want to say how much it means when an author has written a character that you can relate to so well. There were so many parts of Dekker that I saw myself in, and I think that's an incredible thing for an author to be able to do.
I thought it was incredible how Brianne wrote about rejection sensitivity and the thought processes that Dekker experiences. The way that she feels things so strongly and how, when you're so close to something, you can't see it clearly. It was done with so much tact and care. One of her friends tells her that she's being too hard on herself, and Dekker just can't fathom that what's happening in her brain isn't also her reality.
I thought this book was the perfect mix of fun and serious, and I would recommend it to everyone. If you're a rom-com lover who wants substance and no spice, this is absolutely for you. It was a wonderful read and I can't wait for it to release so I can read it again and share my highlights with you all!
Also -- are there any Max's in the world? I'd like to find more men like him.
March 14, 2025
Words cannot describe how much I loved this book!!❤️🔥⭐
I love the MC's. Both are relatable in one way or another. I also love the representation in this story. I loved the friendships and found family. The growth is visible and normal, not something outrageous that seems like it can't be reached.
I felt all the feelings! I was happy, sad, mad, giddy. I laughed, I shed tears, I kicked my feet. The puns got me good. Ultimately, I adored everything in this book. And I Love Brianne's writing style.
I love the MC's. Both are relatable in one way or another. I also love the representation in this story. I loved the friendships and found family. The growth is visible and normal, not something outrageous that seems like it can't be reached.
I felt all the feelings! I was happy, sad, mad, giddy. I laughed, I shed tears, I kicked my feet. The puns got me good. Ultimately, I adored everything in this book. And I Love Brianne's writing style.
November 20, 2025
What a cute, clean read! I absolutely love Dekker, her girls night pals, her relationship with her sister, and, of course, Max. This book went deep without being dark, but kept a lighthearted feel overall. Definitely a good, cozy romance read!
February 17, 2025
Well written!
Kept me interested the entire time!
Would definitely be a reread!!
Love the catchy title!
I received this as an ARC.
Kept me interested the entire time!
Would definitely be a reread!!
Love the catchy title!
I received this as an ARC.
April 30, 2025
Brianne Ritchi Córdova brought us these two people that we cannot help but adore in this RomCom.
Dekker,.. An overthinker, overly sensitive, want to please everyone baker. Then there's Max, the ever present help, FBI agent.
Dekker thinks Max is out on revenge for something that happened and then she found that she's moving in next to him and a spiral of thoughts is going on in her head.
This story is filled with comical food exclamations that will leave you laughing while reading and the fact what Dekker thinks at that moment always comes out of her mouth even if she did not mean for it to come out loud.
There's almost this beautiful contrast between the personalities of FMC and MMC.
As, much as I laughed in every chapter Brianne's writing inguinity made sure that the comedy and quirkness did not once take away the heart of this beautiful story of friendship, being okay with accepting help when others wants to serve you; and how love is just being safe with someone... and not safe meaning settling but, but "a harbor in the storm"... "a haven"
"But maybe relationships weren’t about what you could bring to the table, anyway. Maybe they were about choosing your person and then choosing them over and over again because that’s what love was, in the end. It was choosing."
If you want a wholesome, romantic story, with no unnecessary fluff and not even on the least bit boring, it's for you. Young Adults can even read this.
Thank you Conquest Publish for this ARC
Dekker,.. An overthinker, overly sensitive, want to please everyone baker. Then there's Max, the ever present help, FBI agent.
Dekker thinks Max is out on revenge for something that happened and then she found that she's moving in next to him and a spiral of thoughts is going on in her head.
This story is filled with comical food exclamations that will leave you laughing while reading and the fact what Dekker thinks at that moment always comes out of her mouth even if she did not mean for it to come out loud.
There's almost this beautiful contrast between the personalities of FMC and MMC.
As, much as I laughed in every chapter Brianne's writing inguinity made sure that the comedy and quirkness did not once take away the heart of this beautiful story of friendship, being okay with accepting help when others wants to serve you; and how love is just being safe with someone... and not safe meaning settling but, but "a harbor in the storm"... "a haven"
"But maybe relationships weren’t about what you could bring to the table, anyway. Maybe they were about choosing your person and then choosing them over and over again because that’s what love was, in the end. It was choosing."
If you want a wholesome, romantic story, with no unnecessary fluff and not even on the least bit boring, it's for you. Young Adults can even read this.
Thank you Conquest Publish for this ARC
December 24, 2024
first review lets go!
okk so i haven't read this yet but i saw one snippet and it was hilarious and the author has a wonderful writing style and way with words. the scene descriptions and pacing is also great,looking forward to this✨️
also the author is a really good friend💐✨️
okk so i haven't read this yet but i saw one snippet and it was hilarious and the author has a wonderful writing style and way with words. the scene descriptions and pacing is also great,looking forward to this✨️
also the author is a really good friend💐✨️
March 26, 2025
This rom-com is hilarious from the first page - I was literally laughing out loud throughout. If you like a rom-com where the characters end up in some whack shenanigans, this will have you cracking up.
Dekker is such a sweetheart, with some relatable struggles of inadequacy and feeling worthy of love. Max makes for such a great “enemies”-to-friends-to-lovers pairing for her. He’s a total dreamboat inside and out! Perfect Book Boyfriend material. Both characters felt well fleshed out and I couldn’t help but root for them.
Their romance is a slow burn, but by god the tension!! You could cut it with a knife. I’m not normally into slow burns, but the chemistry and flirting between Max and Dekker still made it very enjoyable. Very good use of the “they both like each other and are kinda oblivious to it, but everyone around them knows it” microtrope.
Huge thanks to Brianne & Conquest for the ARC! I’m honored to be a publisher sibling with such a talented author.
Dekker is such a sweetheart, with some relatable struggles of inadequacy and feeling worthy of love. Max makes for such a great “enemies”-to-friends-to-lovers pairing for her. He’s a total dreamboat inside and out! Perfect Book Boyfriend material. Both characters felt well fleshed out and I couldn’t help but root for them.
Their romance is a slow burn, but by god the tension!! You could cut it with a knife. I’m not normally into slow burns, but the chemistry and flirting between Max and Dekker still made it very enjoyable. Very good use of the “they both like each other and are kinda oblivious to it, but everyone around them knows it” microtrope.
Huge thanks to Brianne & Conquest for the ARC! I’m honored to be a publisher sibling with such a talented author.
April 23, 2025
Holy cannoli, what a deliciously sweet read. I’m not usually the demographic for rom-coms, but Brianne Ritchie Córdova’s Cream and Punishment kept me smiling like a monkey on shrooms the whole way through.
The setup is fairly simple. Hyper-sensitive people-pleaser, Dekker, moves in next to Max, the guy she thinks is harboring a massive grudge against her. Needless to say, her hilariously vivid imagination and a chain of awkward encounters ensue from there. The chemistry between characters, especially Dekker’s wildly eccentric girl crew, brings a fun and realistic flavor to the story.
One thing I really enjoyed was the deeper significance behind Dekker’s struggle for love and acceptance. Like many of us, it’s easy to feel the judgment of others and focus mainly on our failures instead of seeing ourselves for the flawed yet charming human beings we are. Often times, we think relying on others for help is a sign of weakness, when in reality, it’s a sign of trust. Despite Dekker’s traumatic past, we get to see her journey to inner strength, as well as the realization that forgiveness might be something we need from ourselves more than anyone else.
Overall, I loved the hummus out of this book and I look forward to what other tasty morsels this author has in store for the future.
The setup is fairly simple. Hyper-sensitive people-pleaser, Dekker, moves in next to Max, the guy she thinks is harboring a massive grudge against her. Needless to say, her hilariously vivid imagination and a chain of awkward encounters ensue from there. The chemistry between characters, especially Dekker’s wildly eccentric girl crew, brings a fun and realistic flavor to the story.
One thing I really enjoyed was the deeper significance behind Dekker’s struggle for love and acceptance. Like many of us, it’s easy to feel the judgment of others and focus mainly on our failures instead of seeing ourselves for the flawed yet charming human beings we are. Often times, we think relying on others for help is a sign of weakness, when in reality, it’s a sign of trust. Despite Dekker’s traumatic past, we get to see her journey to inner strength, as well as the realization that forgiveness might be something we need from ourselves more than anyone else.
Overall, I loved the hummus out of this book and I look forward to what other tasty morsels this author has in store for the future.
February 16, 2025
I loved this book!! It kept me laughing so much! Dekker was such a fun character! She reminded of myself a lot. I wasn't a romcom girly but Brianne has officially won me over with these masterpieces!
February 21, 2025
If Jesus didn't already own my soul, THIS ROM-COM WOULD. I love it. I LOVE ALL OF IT. Dekker is me, and I am Dekker. And I love how Brianne (who I want to humblebrag is one of my bestest best ever InstaBESTIES and she knows me PERSONALLY - I mean, you all would humblebrag too if you got to meet and befriend a celebrity, right?? Yeah, that's who Brianne is to me, a celeBRIty in the closed-door rom-com community - or SHE WILL BE, since this is her second published work and her first published full-length novel, and SHE HAS MORE TO COME, SO KEEP AN EYE OUT OR I'LL - sorry, I forgot to put away my inner Gollum. Anyway)
I love how Brianne wrote Dekker, with her deeply relatable insecurities, human flaws, and absolutely hilarious and endearing traits AND made her grow throughout the story, from her epiphany over her ADHD and rejection dysphoria (a issue that really needs to be talked about more often!!!) to a beautifully satisfying end-with-a-new-beginning and the CUTEST EPILOGUE EVER.
There is some angst and sadness regarding drug abuse, family loss, & addiction, if these are triggers for you. All I can say is, both Max and Dekker's backstories had me in TEARS. As a former foster sister to two children of a former drug addict and other one who didn't make it, watching my now-teenaged foster siblings struggle in life breaks my heart, and I pray every day and night that Jesus finds THEM one day before the end does. Dekker's own healing experience gave me ... hope, even if it might be strange to say it now.
Reading Cream & Punishment wasn't just about healing a part of my inner child who grew up always fearing rejection and wondering what was wrong with me, it was also about sisterhood and best friends who have your back no matter what. I've read most of Lex's story and it is a treat you don't want to miss coming this summer, and I also can't wait to see what's in store for Annie, Hattie, and Kris, the other three absolutely hilarious and endearing members of Dekker's squad!
And I just gotta say ... Max Fuentes is cinnamon roll MMC GOALS. I love him so much. I need a Max in my life, seriously, a guy who is comfortable in his own skin, confident, but also humble and caring and understanding, doesn't judge, accepts me for who I am, and also can be vulnerable AND flawed (because no one can be perfect!!!) I loved every single one of his scenes with Dekker and especially their ... KISSES!!! Brianne writes kiss scenes that bring you ALL the swoon without the spice and I love that. My ONLY wish is that HE had his own POV scenes!!! I would have LOVED to know what was going on in his head, but Brianne also did an amazing job of giving us insight & hints into his head from Dekker's perspective. Boy had it BAAAAAAAD for her and Dekker didn't want to admit it at first, HOO BOY. XD This is coming from a person who adamantly prefers dual POV in rom-coms, by the way ... Brianne is, and always will be, the exception to the rule. ;)
Also, I want to be Gale when I grow up. IYKYK. Just read it, you'll see why.
If you love endless references to food (especially cupcakes, lasagna, & Dominican), Star Wars, food-related curse words, paintball (with a jealous Max MUAHAHAHAHA), relatable characters with ADHD, a sweet romance that will make you swoon, and a closely knit sisterhood, you WILL love Cream & Punishment. This is the story for YOU!!!
This is an ARC review from Brianne. Thank you so much for writing this story. And I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU!!! *channeling Buddy the Elf here* <3
Is this review biased? You bet it is, and I don't care. Ten out of five stars, A+, all the awards to Brianne for writing one of my favorite rom-coms of 2025. <3
I love how Brianne wrote Dekker, with her deeply relatable insecurities, human flaws, and absolutely hilarious and endearing traits AND made her grow throughout the story, from her epiphany over her ADHD and rejection dysphoria (a issue that really needs to be talked about more often!!!) to a beautifully satisfying end-with-a-new-beginning and the CUTEST EPILOGUE EVER.
There is some angst and sadness regarding drug abuse, family loss, & addiction, if these are triggers for you. All I can say is, both Max and Dekker's backstories had me in TEARS. As a former foster sister to two children of a former drug addict and other one who didn't make it, watching my now-teenaged foster siblings struggle in life breaks my heart, and I pray every day and night that Jesus finds THEM one day before the end does. Dekker's own healing experience gave me ... hope, even if it might be strange to say it now.
Reading Cream & Punishment wasn't just about healing a part of my inner child who grew up always fearing rejection and wondering what was wrong with me, it was also about sisterhood and best friends who have your back no matter what. I've read most of Lex's story and it is a treat you don't want to miss coming this summer, and I also can't wait to see what's in store for Annie, Hattie, and Kris, the other three absolutely hilarious and endearing members of Dekker's squad!
And I just gotta say ... Max Fuentes is cinnamon roll MMC GOALS. I love him so much. I need a Max in my life, seriously, a guy who is comfortable in his own skin, confident, but also humble and caring and understanding, doesn't judge, accepts me for who I am, and also can be vulnerable AND flawed (because no one can be perfect!!!) I loved every single one of his scenes with Dekker and especially their ... KISSES!!! Brianne writes kiss scenes that bring you ALL the swoon without the spice and I love that. My ONLY wish is that HE had his own POV scenes!!! I would have LOVED to know what was going on in his head, but Brianne also did an amazing job of giving us insight & hints into his head from Dekker's perspective. Boy had it BAAAAAAAD for her and Dekker didn't want to admit it at first, HOO BOY. XD This is coming from a person who adamantly prefers dual POV in rom-coms, by the way ... Brianne is, and always will be, the exception to the rule. ;)
Also, I want to be Gale when I grow up. IYKYK. Just read it, you'll see why.
If you love endless references to food (especially cupcakes, lasagna, & Dominican), Star Wars, food-related curse words, paintball (with a jealous Max MUAHAHAHAHA), relatable characters with ADHD, a sweet romance that will make you swoon, and a closely knit sisterhood, you WILL love Cream & Punishment. This is the story for YOU!!!
This is an ARC review from Brianne. Thank you so much for writing this story. And I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU!!! *channeling Buddy the Elf here* <3
Is this review biased? You bet it is, and I don't care. Ten out of five stars, A+, all the awards to Brianne for writing one of my favorite rom-coms of 2025. <3
September 17, 2025
Need a good laugh? 🤣 Meet THE MOST HILARIOUS book I’ve ever listened to… in my whole life. Ever. Period.
Cream and Punishment by @b.r.cordova_writes
From the very first page, I was dying. Unladylike snorting laughter. And the humor continued through the whole book. Yes, there are deeply poignant moments. Yes, there are serious and deeply meaningful moments. But every chapter also made me smile and laugh. 🤭
Also, this book has the most EPIC bachelorette party of all time. (Totally appropriate, nothing scandalous - just pure awesomeness!!!) I really need someone to make a movie of this book JUST so I can watch this scene. 👰
Max is a tall, dark, handsome FBI agent with an amazing sense of humor, a kind heart, and bad dance moves. His flaws only made him more endearing.
Decker was hilarious. The story was narrated in the first person from her point of view and holy cannoli, would I love to be her best friend in real life. She felt so real in her over-thinking, deep-feeling, and random-thought-generating goodness. I loved her character development! 💖 And her throw pillows. 🍪 And please, can this book come with samples of her baking? 🧁
Expect:
💖 Enemies to friends to more (she is sure he hates her for completely ruining his life)
💖 Easygoing MMC (FBI agent)
💖 Hilarious FMC (baker)
💖 Strong sisterhood of friends
💖 ADHD rep
💖 Happy ending
Favorite parts:
📦 Unmentionables in an unfortunately clear box
🐍 Snake incident (he rescues her)
🥐 Food themed throw pillows with names
🧁 Payment with cupcakes
👰 The best bachelorette party of all time (so epic)
🕺 Dancing in the kitchen
📕 He reads her favorite book
🫏 The donkey costume fiasco
🧑🍳 He takes off his apron 🥵
🥄 Sharing germs
🍨🛋️ The ice cream & couch incident 😘
🚪 Two knocks
🍴 The fork incident
👩🍳 His nickname for her
☂️ He wants to make sure she is safe on her walks to work
The audiobook was perfect! The narrator was spot on with the voices, emotions, and comedic timing! 🎧
Cream and Punishment by @b.r.cordova_writes
From the very first page, I was dying. Unladylike snorting laughter. And the humor continued through the whole book. Yes, there are deeply poignant moments. Yes, there are serious and deeply meaningful moments. But every chapter also made me smile and laugh. 🤭
Also, this book has the most EPIC bachelorette party of all time. (Totally appropriate, nothing scandalous - just pure awesomeness!!!) I really need someone to make a movie of this book JUST so I can watch this scene. 👰
Max is a tall, dark, handsome FBI agent with an amazing sense of humor, a kind heart, and bad dance moves. His flaws only made him more endearing.
Decker was hilarious. The story was narrated in the first person from her point of view and holy cannoli, would I love to be her best friend in real life. She felt so real in her over-thinking, deep-feeling, and random-thought-generating goodness. I loved her character development! 💖 And her throw pillows. 🍪 And please, can this book come with samples of her baking? 🧁
Expect:
💖 Enemies to friends to more (she is sure he hates her for completely ruining his life)
💖 Easygoing MMC (FBI agent)
💖 Hilarious FMC (baker)
💖 Strong sisterhood of friends
💖 ADHD rep
💖 Happy ending
Favorite parts:
📦 Unmentionables in an unfortunately clear box
🐍 Snake incident (he rescues her)
🥐 Food themed throw pillows with names
🧁 Payment with cupcakes
👰 The best bachelorette party of all time (so epic)
🕺 Dancing in the kitchen
📕 He reads her favorite book
🫏 The donkey costume fiasco
🧑🍳 He takes off his apron 🥵
🥄 Sharing germs
🍨🛋️ The ice cream & couch incident 😘
🚪 Two knocks
🍴 The fork incident
👩🍳 His nickname for her
☂️ He wants to make sure she is safe on her walks to work
The audiobook was perfect! The narrator was spot on with the voices, emotions, and comedic timing! 🎧
February 4, 2025
Cream & Punishment
“Smitten in the Mitten” Book 1
By: Brianne Ritchie Cordova
Never have I ever….I don’t remember if it’s the name of a game, a show, or what…but for the first time I insist on answering the question for myself. “Never, have I ever, laughed out loud countless times while reading such an uproarious, truth ‘o mania (story that mirrored my life) book, that I never wanted it to end!”
This is the fourth book I’ve read for 2025. I make all kinds of challenges for myself each year because there is so much more out there than just a regular RomCom, mystery or biography. I search for new authors, new storylines, anything different from my “comfortable normal”.
Cream & Punishment is runner up to my number one selection. It’s almost unfair to have to rate anything; but that is what helps me along throughout the days, weeks & years - remembering what I’ve read. And then I get to share that with a family member, book buddy, friend, even a complete stranger.
I appreciated the author’s “content warning” in the beginning; yes, there are some sensitive topics within these pages; but I would be the first in line to say each & every one was handled with sensitivity, bravery, truthfulness & a keen sense of much needed humor!
It was a fortunate opportunity to read an ARC of this book, & I’ll be purchasing this story over & over again to share a smile with friends & loved ones.
So from one asthmatic goose honker I say - don’t delay on reading this book, every second of it is a wise investment! And thank you, Ms. Cordova, you are a new to me author, & this is such a sublime book!!! I can’t wait to read more of your work.
“Smitten in the Mitten” Book 1
By: Brianne Ritchie Cordova
Never have I ever….I don’t remember if it’s the name of a game, a show, or what…but for the first time I insist on answering the question for myself. “Never, have I ever, laughed out loud countless times while reading such an uproarious, truth ‘o mania (story that mirrored my life) book, that I never wanted it to end!”
This is the fourth book I’ve read for 2025. I make all kinds of challenges for myself each year because there is so much more out there than just a regular RomCom, mystery or biography. I search for new authors, new storylines, anything different from my “comfortable normal”.
Cream & Punishment is runner up to my number one selection. It’s almost unfair to have to rate anything; but that is what helps me along throughout the days, weeks & years - remembering what I’ve read. And then I get to share that with a family member, book buddy, friend, even a complete stranger.
I appreciated the author’s “content warning” in the beginning; yes, there are some sensitive topics within these pages; but I would be the first in line to say each & every one was handled with sensitivity, bravery, truthfulness & a keen sense of much needed humor!
It was a fortunate opportunity to read an ARC of this book, & I’ll be purchasing this story over & over again to share a smile with friends & loved ones.
So from one asthmatic goose honker I say - don’t delay on reading this book, every second of it is a wise investment! And thank you, Ms. Cordova, you are a new to me author, & this is such a sublime book!!! I can’t wait to read more of your work.
December 4, 2025
Cream and Punishment is exactly the kind of cozy, chemistry-filled rom-com that’s perfect for an audiobook binge, and listening to it made the experience even better. I went with the audiobook edition, and Shannon Smith’s narration was genuinely impressive, warm, expressive, and perfectly in tune with the story’s humor and heart. She brought Dekker’s chaos, Max’s charm, and every awkward, hilarious moment between them to life.
Dekker Piper is a wonderfully relatable hot mess of a baker whose life has crumbled at the worst possible time. And who ends up as her new next-door neighbor? Max Fuentes, the man whose life she accidentally derailed and who supposedly hates her. Their history gives every scene tension and spark, and the banter between them had me smiling throughout.
Max is a fantastic love interest, steady, unexpectedly kind, and way more patient than Dekker (or I) expected. Watching their relationship shift from avoidance to curiosity to something sweeter is one of the best parts of the story. The romance is closed-door, but the chemistry is absolutely there, and Shannon Smith really nails that emotional buildup.
I settled on four stars only because a few plot points felt predictable, and I wished we got a slightly deeper dive into their shared past. Still, the charm, humor, and overall feel-good vibe more than make up for it.
If you enjoy warm rom-coms with great banter, swoony tension, and a narrator who elevates every scene, the Cream and Punishment audiobook is definitely worth adding to your playlist.
Dekker Piper is a wonderfully relatable hot mess of a baker whose life has crumbled at the worst possible time. And who ends up as her new next-door neighbor? Max Fuentes, the man whose life she accidentally derailed and who supposedly hates her. Their history gives every scene tension and spark, and the banter between them had me smiling throughout.
Max is a fantastic love interest, steady, unexpectedly kind, and way more patient than Dekker (or I) expected. Watching their relationship shift from avoidance to curiosity to something sweeter is one of the best parts of the story. The romance is closed-door, but the chemistry is absolutely there, and Shannon Smith really nails that emotional buildup.
I settled on four stars only because a few plot points felt predictable, and I wished we got a slightly deeper dive into their shared past. Still, the charm, humor, and overall feel-good vibe more than make up for it.
If you enjoy warm rom-coms with great banter, swoony tension, and a narrator who elevates every scene, the Cream and Punishment audiobook is definitely worth adding to your playlist.
January 27, 2026
I liked this book.
One of my favorite parts was the FMC’s internal battle — you could genuinely feel the weight of the guilt she carried and how deeply she believed she had done the MMC wrong. Watching her work through her trust issues, her tendency to blame herself for everything, and slowly realize that she doesn’t have to do life alone anymore was so emotional and satisfying. I loved seeing her come to terms with the fact that not everything is her fault, even though she’s spent so long believing it was.
And the MMC??? Absolute best partner-in-crime. He was always just there for her — ready to help with whatever ridiculous or silly task she had to do, supporting her without hesitation, and being that constant presence in her life. I loved how steady and dependable he was, and how it felt like he chose her over and over again.
I also really appreciated that they each had to work through their own stuff separately before fully coming back together. It made their relationship feel more earned and more realistic, and the emotional payoff was so worth it.
Plus… this book was funny. Like actually made-me-smile funny. There were so many little moments of humor sprinkled throughout that balanced out the heavier emotional themes really well. Was it a little cringe at times? Sure. But honestly… that kind of comes with the romance genre and I didn’t mind it at all. It just added to the charm for me.
Overall, this was such a solid, emotional, funny romance and I enjoyed it way more than I expected to. Definitely a win for me.
One of my favorite parts was the FMC’s internal battle — you could genuinely feel the weight of the guilt she carried and how deeply she believed she had done the MMC wrong. Watching her work through her trust issues, her tendency to blame herself for everything, and slowly realize that she doesn’t have to do life alone anymore was so emotional and satisfying. I loved seeing her come to terms with the fact that not everything is her fault, even though she’s spent so long believing it was.
And the MMC??? Absolute best partner-in-crime. He was always just there for her — ready to help with whatever ridiculous or silly task she had to do, supporting her without hesitation, and being that constant presence in her life. I loved how steady and dependable he was, and how it felt like he chose her over and over again.
I also really appreciated that they each had to work through their own stuff separately before fully coming back together. It made their relationship feel more earned and more realistic, and the emotional payoff was so worth it.
Plus… this book was funny. Like actually made-me-smile funny. There were so many little moments of humor sprinkled throughout that balanced out the heavier emotional themes really well. Was it a little cringe at times? Sure. But honestly… that kind of comes with the romance genre and I didn’t mind it at all. It just added to the charm for me.
Overall, this was such a solid, emotional, funny romance and I enjoyed it way more than I expected to. Definitely a win for me.
April 21, 2025
This book made me realize that rom-coms is a genre I enjoy lot more than I thought I did. Not only that, this story is dear to my heart and will always be remembered as a fundamental part of my mental health journey, which I'll touch on shortly.
This novel is a spice free romance that doesn't compromise romantic tension or swoony sceness. It has well rounded characters that you can't help but love, Dekker Piper especially captured my heart. I adore her narrative, it is both humorous, relatable, and full of mouth watering food puns. Not only that she is so relatable! As a young women who also struggled with undiagnosed ADHD, Dekker made me feel seen. Her struggles with keeping up with business tasks, social anxiety, and impulsivity were all so real. Reading her journey gave me the courage to finally seek an evaluation for ADHD myself, which was something I put off for a long time out of fear of how medication could affect me.
Dekker having the same fears about seeking a diagnosis and medication, yet having so much peace when she actually went through with it gave me the confidence to set an appointment myself. That's an example why stories with mental health representation are so important, and I'm so grateful for Brianne writing this novel. It is wonderfully written, hilarious, and all came together seamlessly.
This novel is a spice free romance that doesn't compromise romantic tension or swoony sceness. It has well rounded characters that you can't help but love, Dekker Piper especially captured my heart. I adore her narrative, it is both humorous, relatable, and full of mouth watering food puns. Not only that she is so relatable! As a young women who also struggled with undiagnosed ADHD, Dekker made me feel seen. Her struggles with keeping up with business tasks, social anxiety, and impulsivity were all so real. Reading her journey gave me the courage to finally seek an evaluation for ADHD myself, which was something I put off for a long time out of fear of how medication could affect me.
Dekker having the same fears about seeking a diagnosis and medication, yet having so much peace when she actually went through with it gave me the confidence to set an appointment myself. That's an example why stories with mental health representation are so important, and I'm so grateful for Brianne writing this novel. It is wonderfully written, hilarious, and all came together seamlessly.
January 25, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down! Dekker Piper is a quirky, lovable character—an amazing baker with a deep fear of snakes and a serious preference for ice cream over vegetables. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with a handsome man from her past, she’s convinced he hates her after a mistake she made that she believes ruined his life. Or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
While I didn’t fully buy into how strongly she thought he despised her—honestly, even an ant could’ve seen the truth otherwise—the humor more than made up for it. Dekker’s awkward moments had me laughing out loud more than once. The author has a real gift for making her characters relatable and describing those cringe-worthy, all-too-familiar situations so vividly that you can almost see them unfold in front of you.
This is such a feel-good read that it even made me nostalgic for my single days! If you're a fan of lighthearted, heartwarming stories with plenty of humor, I highly recommend this one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down! Dekker Piper is a quirky, lovable character—an amazing baker with a deep fear of snakes and a serious preference for ice cream over vegetables. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with a handsome man from her past, she’s convinced he hates her after a mistake she made that she believes ruined his life. Or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
While I didn’t fully buy into how strongly she thought he despised her—honestly, even an ant could’ve seen the truth otherwise—the humor more than made up for it. Dekker’s awkward moments had me laughing out loud more than once. The author has a real gift for making her characters relatable and describing those cringe-worthy, all-too-familiar situations so vividly that you can almost see them unfold in front of you.
This is such a feel-good read that it even made me nostalgic for my single days! If you're a fan of lighthearted, heartwarming stories with plenty of humor, I highly recommend this one!
January 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I will recommend it to everyone and their dog.
First, it is hilarious. And I don’t just mean there are funny moments, I mean the whole thing. The dialogue and banter, the lens in which the world and action is viewed. Everything. I tried to read while next to a sleeping person and almost exploding from keeping the laughs in so I wouldn’t wake them up.
Second, it has real depth and heart. The meaning and power this book has while still feeling light and funny was a perfectly blended masterpiece. The representation of anxiety was so realistic and did not feel overly contrived at all. And it not only represents well, but it also gives hope and growth and healing.
I usually don’t highlight much unless I’m reading nonfiction, but this was too good. I highlighted so many funny and impactful lines.
The characters are likable and flawed, which drew me in. Even the side characters are perfection, and I NEED more of their stories! I can’t wait for the rest of this series. This author is an auto-buy for me!
So, if you are looking for a funny, deep, heartfelt, adult romcom with no spice, I recommend this jumps to the top of your TBR.
First, it is hilarious. And I don’t just mean there are funny moments, I mean the whole thing. The dialogue and banter, the lens in which the world and action is viewed. Everything. I tried to read while next to a sleeping person and almost exploding from keeping the laughs in so I wouldn’t wake them up.
Second, it has real depth and heart. The meaning and power this book has while still feeling light and funny was a perfectly blended masterpiece. The representation of anxiety was so realistic and did not feel overly contrived at all. And it not only represents well, but it also gives hope and growth and healing.
I usually don’t highlight much unless I’m reading nonfiction, but this was too good. I highlighted so many funny and impactful lines.
The characters are likable and flawed, which drew me in. Even the side characters are perfection, and I NEED more of their stories! I can’t wait for the rest of this series. This author is an auto-buy for me!
So, if you are looking for a funny, deep, heartfelt, adult romcom with no spice, I recommend this jumps to the top of your TBR.
February 20, 2025
Genre -Comedy-romance, friend-to-lovers, disability
Setting - mostly apartment complex and bakery
Appropriate Age - 13+
POV - FMC
They have an encounter that changes his life and she feels guilty and spends the next year going to great lengths to avoid him. She ends up moving in next to him and he makes it difficult to avoid him. Her obsession with him hating her puts them in many hysterical situations while they develop a friendship. This is an adorable book from the viewpoint of an impulsive, emotional, and crazy lady. She is a little over the top but also endearing. Max the MMC is perfect in every way. His patience while she figures out how to navigate life, friendship, and a medical diagnosis makes the entire story like a hug. I would give it a 4.5. I look forward to reading more books in the series.
Story **** World ****
Main Characters **** Side Characters ****
Story Emotions *** Reader Frustration **
Slow burn/reveal **** Steam *
Humor ***** Ending ****
Romance *****
I received an advance review copy of this book and was not paid for this review.
Setting - mostly apartment complex and bakery
Appropriate Age - 13+
POV - FMC
They have an encounter that changes his life and she feels guilty and spends the next year going to great lengths to avoid him. She ends up moving in next to him and he makes it difficult to avoid him. Her obsession with him hating her puts them in many hysterical situations while they develop a friendship. This is an adorable book from the viewpoint of an impulsive, emotional, and crazy lady. She is a little over the top but also endearing. Max the MMC is perfect in every way. His patience while she figures out how to navigate life, friendship, and a medical diagnosis makes the entire story like a hug. I would give it a 4.5. I look forward to reading more books in the series.
Story **** World ****
Main Characters **** Side Characters ****
Story Emotions *** Reader Frustration **
Slow burn/reveal **** Steam *
Humor ***** Ending ****
Romance *****
I received an advance review copy of this book and was not paid for this review.
March 24, 2025
I have so many different thoughts about this book--but my eyes are heavy as I try to write this review because I definitely stayed up too late last night trying to finish the last of it--I failed to finished before falling asleep and then ended up waking up early this morning to finally finish it.
Let's try a pro/con list as a review:
Pros:
-SLOWEST of burns and so well done.
-Closed door--kisses only.
-Awesome female friendships
-ADHD representation (and really well described)
-Fun and silly scenes galore (including paintball and a donkey suit)
-Career exploration
-Fun throw pillows 😉
-No third act break up
-HEA
Cons:
-Dekker's quirky personality came with sayings/phrases that were very cringe--while a part of her shtick, it was still hard to read those.
-For some reason, even though I enjoyed myself each time I picked up the book to read, it still came off as feeling extremely long.
TW: discussion of drug use/overdoses, but not detailed description
In conclusion, I'm really glad I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of this thanks to Book Sirens. I would def recommend it to slow burn, rom-com lovers.
Let's try a pro/con list as a review:
Pros:
-SLOWEST of burns and so well done.
-Closed door--kisses only.
-Awesome female friendships
-ADHD representation (and really well described)
-Fun and silly scenes galore (including paintball and a donkey suit)
-Career exploration
-Fun throw pillows 😉
-No third act break up
-HEA
Cons:
-Dekker's quirky personality came with sayings/phrases that were very cringe--while a part of her shtick, it was still hard to read those.
-For some reason, even though I enjoyed myself each time I picked up the book to read, it still came off as feeling extremely long.
TW: discussion of drug use/overdoses, but not detailed description
In conclusion, I'm really glad I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of this thanks to Book Sirens. I would def recommend it to slow burn, rom-com lovers.
April 15, 2025
I'm honestly surprised by how much I ended up enjoying this book! I am rating it 3.75 rounded up. I honestly loved watching the characters growth throughout the story, and I thought that their relationship was super cute even if at some times ridiculous. One of the main reasons I knocked a star and a half off was that I genuinely couldn't stand how much Dekker referenced food, especially in place of cursing. I get that she's a baker, and I don't hold it against her. However, I just thought the fact that it changed every single time was too much, and it started to annoy me over the course of the book. I wouldn't have minded so much if it was one or two phrases repeated. I will also say I honestly didn't really care for or empathize with Dekker at the beginning, but I think a lot of that just circles back to my own experiences with someone who acted similar to Dekker but never tried to learn or grow or take anyone's firm but loving words to heart. Anyway, I thought this book was well-written and overall well done!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2025
I’d been waiting to read this book for a long time… and it was well worth the wait! CREAM AND PUNISHMENT is a rom-com that delivers both romance and comedy.
Dekker is a busy, somewhat frazzled, baker who recently changed jobs and apartments. Turns out her new neighbor is a guy she’d hoped to never see again. The two met a while back and by complete accident, Dekker sparked a disagreement between Max and his then-girlfriend. They broke up, and Dekker blames herself—and she assumes Max does, too.
So when they bump into each other, she initially figures Max is looking to settle the score. But as they spend time together, Dekker starts to fall for him. But how does he feel about her?
Author Brianne Ritchie Córdova is a master of snappy rom-com dialogue. The scenes with Dekker and Max are both flirty and funny, clever while still sounding natural. It’s a tough balance, but Córdova gets it exactly right.
Also, Dekker and Max are both characters we, the readers, root for and want to see find happiness. Dekker, in particular, is such a lovable, awkward goofball—in all the best ways. She is everyone who sometimes struggles in social situations, but who has a heart of gold.
Her story is fun and sweet and not always easy. But it absolutely is worth reading!
Dekker is a busy, somewhat frazzled, baker who recently changed jobs and apartments. Turns out her new neighbor is a guy she’d hoped to never see again. The two met a while back and by complete accident, Dekker sparked a disagreement between Max and his then-girlfriend. They broke up, and Dekker blames herself—and she assumes Max does, too.
So when they bump into each other, she initially figures Max is looking to settle the score. But as they spend time together, Dekker starts to fall for him. But how does he feel about her?
Author Brianne Ritchie Córdova is a master of snappy rom-com dialogue. The scenes with Dekker and Max are both flirty and funny, clever while still sounding natural. It’s a tough balance, but Córdova gets it exactly right.
Also, Dekker and Max are both characters we, the readers, root for and want to see find happiness. Dekker, in particular, is such a lovable, awkward goofball—in all the best ways. She is everyone who sometimes struggles in social situations, but who has a heart of gold.
Her story is fun and sweet and not always easy. But it absolutely is worth reading!
April 15, 2025
There are rom coms and there are ROM COMS. Brianne’s written a book with the romance, the laughs, and those hard-hitting moments where you recognize a truth about the world written on the page. Readers don’t just read this book, we go on the characters’ journey and witness them growing and falling in love.
This book is single POV, written from Dekker’s perspective. Honestly, at the beginning being inside her head is a bit overwhelming, but I adjusted pretty quickly. The quirks, the cringe, and the sweet moments this character experienced had me laughing, shaking my head, and relating to her love story because it rang true to me. I would’ve loved to see a little more of her ADHD journey, but I’m that reader that never wants to let go of the stories I love.
This debut novel went above and beyond to deliver a story that has it all and I look forward to future books by this author. If you’re looking for laughter, quirky characters, and a glimpse into anxiety and ADHD, this is a must read.
This book is single POV, written from Dekker’s perspective. Honestly, at the beginning being inside her head is a bit overwhelming, but I adjusted pretty quickly. The quirks, the cringe, and the sweet moments this character experienced had me laughing, shaking my head, and relating to her love story because it rang true to me. I would’ve loved to see a little more of her ADHD journey, but I’m that reader that never wants to let go of the stories I love.
This debut novel went above and beyond to deliver a story that has it all and I look forward to future books by this author. If you’re looking for laughter, quirky characters, and a glimpse into anxiety and ADHD, this is a must read.
September 10, 2025
POV:
You’re actively moving into your new apartment and guess who lives right next door? Your ex—whose life you “ruined” and who must want revenge on you. Ouch.
Written in first-person POV.
Past tense.
FMC is a baker.
30 year-old FMC.
Set in Detroit, MI.
Neighbors-to-lovers.
Second chances.
Overall:
Features a fun premise, in theory, but poorly executed. The FMC never stops whining and after a while it was physically painful to keep listening. She would’ve been relatable to people with insecurities, low self-esteem, but it just went too far, literally believing that everything is about her / in an ‘out to get her’ kind of way and it got really old, pretty early in.
Max was likable, and hey, we can’t help who we love—it’s not his fault he had a thing for the most immature, whiniest lead to ever exist.
Not terrible, but not for me, 2 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Overall smooth sound quality. No real voice-acting to speak of here, at delivery was fairly robotic. 3 stars.
You’re actively moving into your new apartment and guess who lives right next door? Your ex—whose life you “ruined” and who must want revenge on you. Ouch.
Written in first-person POV.
Past tense.
FMC is a baker.
30 year-old FMC.
Set in Detroit, MI.
Neighbors-to-lovers.
Second chances.
Overall:
Features a fun premise, in theory, but poorly executed. The FMC never stops whining and after a while it was physically painful to keep listening. She would’ve been relatable to people with insecurities, low self-esteem, but it just went too far, literally believing that everything is about her / in an ‘out to get her’ kind of way and it got really old, pretty early in.
Max was likable, and hey, we can’t help who we love—it’s not his fault he had a thing for the most immature, whiniest lead to ever exist.
Not terrible, but not for me, 2 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Overall smooth sound quality. No real voice-acting to speak of here, at delivery was fairly robotic. 3 stars.
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