Book 2, The Theory of Second Best: Cake Series

Bravo J. Bengtsson! Firstly, I would like to point out that even though being a new author, the writing style for this book and the first Cake Book as well is truly superb. It seems J. Bengtsson has a gift when it comes to writing, and I truly hope to see many more books written by this author... Even seasoned authors sometimes cannot achieve this level of writing making you connect to the characters and feel what they feeling! Having said that, I only gave this book 4 stars and I would like to explain why. When it came down to the the first book of the Cake Series, one of the things that I most liked was that it had a nice balance..it has plenty of banter between the characters, humor, steamy scenes and content. Unfortunately I cannot say the same about the second book. If I was rating this book only on humor I would give it a 10+ stars! I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard...seriously, you will basically not stop laughing through out this book, it is truly hilarious. The issue for me is that I did not connect so much to the main male character due to the fact that he was not an alpha male, which for me is really a factor when it comes to the leading man. Also, it lacked any romance scenes between the main characters and hardly any steamy scenes as well... I wished this book also had that nice balance that the first one did. To tell the truth I am not even sure I will read the third installment of this series, but I look forward to reading the 4th book which is supposed to be a continuation of the characters from the first Book of the Cake series. If you are looking for a light read that will guarantee you will cry tears of laughter, the please read this book... you will not be disappointed! To the author I say, please continue writing and I hope to see other books and new material that brings romance, laughter and steaminess to the pages... something different from the cake series.

I've been waiting for the sequel to "Cake: A love story" since I read it last year. I loved "Cake" and since it was a debut novel for this author I was curious to see if she was consistent with the quality of her writing, or if it would be just a "one hit wonder" kind of author. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed, her talent is undeniable.
Her understated humor, wit, and charm are evident in the second book as well as in the first. Her ability to create layer upon layer on both characters and story, make this a delightful and insightful read.
The story is certainly nothing new, however she is able to make it her own thanks to her particular humorous style and fresh take on characters that are as real and honest as you can get.
She gives us "Kyle" (I dare say he is the main character), who is the opposite of your typical "alpha Male" found in most romance stories. Kyle is a sweet, laid back, self deprecating guy who lives in the shadow of his ultra famous rock star brother, hiding his under a façade that masks all his insecurities. He feels he's not good enough and never will be, so why bother to try. He pretends to be happy to always be "Second Best". He was marked by a tragic event in his past, and he carries the burden of guilt. He realize he doesn't really know where he fits, or if he even fits.
So the book is more about his journey of self discovery, and how in order to find love, he needs to realize his own worth.
I found this to be a breath of fresh air, and not your typical YA romance story. There is no OTT drama, no insta love, just a great story about two young people finding each other and holding on to what is important.
The reason I'm giving this 4.5 Stars, is because I'm a sucker for HEA, and we only get a HFN. I would have loved to get an insight farther into the future and see how their lives turned out. I'm wondering what Kyle and Kenzie will do with their lives, and if they stay together long term.

Kyle has always been the second, almost as cool, kind of okayest, fiddle to his rockstar older brother Jake. I mean his brother is a rockstar, of course he reaps the benefits he can, but sometimes it still sucks. Hot fan girls Jake's not interested in? Sure, why not? Things change when he's picked as a contestant on a survivor type reality show. Of course he got there on Jake's name, but he wants this for him. He figures he will fail, whatever, but he's doing something different at least.

Kenzie hasn't done much just for herself in life. Thrust into an adult role very early on due to unfortunate circumstances in her life. She is somehow picked for the same reality show. She figures it's because she's the small town girl who hasn't seen the world. She knows she doesn't have much to add, but she's doing the show for her and her family. She wants to see the world outside of her small town, and this is the first step.

The relationship between these two starts off a little iffy, but quickly morphs into witty banter and clear chemistry. Only one of them realizes it though. Feelings get hurt, sides get chosen, and basically it's like reading a season of survivor, but with an emphasis on the main love story that plays out. I really enjoyed that Kyle and Kenzie weren't so wrapped up in each other that the other people got lost. They became friends with them as well, and some of those friendships I ADORED. The reality show aspect wasn't unique to me per say, but the fact that it wasn't written as OTT and angsty was unique. This story felt real and relatable.

Once again this romance is super duper slow burn. It made it real and made you root for the characters. If you're looking for super smutty, this isn't it. If you're looking for sexual tension, and sweet development of feelings... you've found your book. While these two fell in love, I fell in love with them.

My only complaint is that it did feel like the story had some parts that dragged for me. Maybe it's because I read the first book and some parts were reiterated from Kyle's POV, and I just wasn't THAT interested in knowing his POV during someone else's love story. I get that it developed the character more, I just didn't need it, and it slowed the story down for me. Of course it's at the beginning and it picks up quickly once you get through all of that.

All in all a really good read. It's pretty low angst, the romance is so sweet, the banter was great, and the characters it came from were even better. Great writing! Can't wait to read the next in the series. This family has peaked my interest to say the least.

I asked my daughter to give me a hard copy of one of her favorite audible books; and J. Bengtsson's "The Theory of Second Best" was under our Christmas tree. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a brisk read, one that kept the lights on past bedtime to get in just a few pages more. The characters are so wonderfully well-drawn -- Kenzie's small-town girl life contrasted with Kyle's fast-track life as the brother of a rock star. Kyle does a lot of growing up in the book, coming to realize his own self-worth with his romantic relationship bringing out the best in him. Kenzie also grows in confidence and coming into her own as an adult. The supporting characters from Kyle's and Kenzie's families, the game show contestants and the brief glimpses of Kenzie's hometown friends are clear, distinct and endearing. This book is so strong that it makes me want to read the other books in this series. Enjoy!

I laughed so hard and so much!!!! Thank you J B! I am a CAKE lover both literally and the first book in this series. Which is why I eagerly anticipated Marooned. Oddly enough I was very skeptical going into Cake as I was in Marooned. The story with Jake was dark and hard to read. Admittedly I skimmed the gruesome parts because JB writes so well you fall into the characters lives. However with such amazing writing skills, storyline and random crack up moments (well played...btw) I loved Cake outside of the darker material. So I finally get Marooned and again I am way skeptical on this book too! I know right? I am NOT a reality tv viewer/fan. I have never watched a full episode of any of them. So when I read that was the setting for Marooned i felt like my heart got marooned somewhere too. But I persevered through the skepticism solely due to knowing the superior writing skills of this author. My trust paid off! I didn't have to read about any challenges or stunts on the tv show setting but the story really delved deep into all the players. Wow! My greedy imagination devoured this book. You discover more pieces to the Jake puzzle and you fall in love with Kyle for just being Kyle. Have I mentioned it is side achingly hilarious! Pages worth of fun! The crab...I can't even...I laughed so hard I had tears. Grab this book and buckle up!

This book was amazing. I wasn't sure I would like it as much as Cake because I loved that book SO much but it DEFINITELY surprised. This is the story of Kyle McKallister the younger brother of a famous rock star brother from the book Cake. Yes this is a stand-alone and you don't have to read Cake to follow it completely but you would be missing out on another awesome story if you did that - so don't (haha). Kyle goes and does a Survivor type reality show where he meets Kenzie Williams a sweet small town girl. Kenzie has a strong desire to win the show to help her financially struggling family which causes her a lot of internal conflict due to her increasing feelings towards Kyle. This story tells the tale of their relationship during the reality show and the after. I love how this is a book full of rich characters and you get an in-depth look at not only Kyle and Kenzie but their extended family. This story is sweet, heartbreaking, intriguing, and steamy. It sucked me and held me entranced requiring me to complete the book in one night. I can't wait for more books about the McKallister family. What an awesome read.

I can't say how much I love this McAllister clan (Quinn singing Alvin & the Chipmunks) and want a book for all of them! I know, I know Emma is next, but I'd like Keith & Sam's book! Kyle participates in a reality/game show (may the best man....or woman win) and meets Kenzie. Prior to the show, the impression is that Kyle rides on his brother Jake's coat tails and is somewhat of a manwhore. Kenzie is a very likable character, helping her dad care for her siblings after her mother's unfortunate passing, but it's time she doing something for her.
The supporting cast of characters on the island were entertaining - although there is a "know it all" who got on my nerves, probably as much as she got on the other island members nerves. LOL

I wish I could convey in words how much I loved this book. There were moments that made me smile, laugh, and clutch my heart. More images of what happened to Jake in the first book were brought to light and my heart hurt. Jake wasn't the only one hurt. The unanswered questions that plagued Kyle. I just can't even.... I loved that Kenzi was able to help him heal and showed him the person he was.

The epilogue of this book had me cracking up. I loved the interaction of with Jake and Casey again. I'm anxious to read more about Emma next. I'm really loving this McCallister family.

Where to start? I Loved this book. The snarky banter, amazing insight, great with all the feels.
This book found me chuckling to myself late into the night. I didn't want to go to bed. This story pulled me in unlike Cake,I could relate to Kyle. Self sacrificing, lazy, but with a heart of gold his character spoke to me in a way that Jake's didn't. Kyle needed Kenzie for her down to Earth purity and for her genuine appreciation of him, not his brother. Perfectly Perfect. Hope there's more to come in this series.

Interesting story following up on Kyle McAllister, the brother to Jake the main character in the author's previous work - Cake. The McAllister family dialogue is witty and 'spot on' compared to what I have experienced between siblings in my own family. Superficially, Kyle is a funny, fun-loving, self-proclaimed slacker. Yet, this book doesn't stop on the surface. It delves into Kyle's heart and how he has struggled since his shared horrific ordeal with Jake 10 years previous. Kenzie is adorably goofy and has a desire to make everyone around her feel special. I liked the slow building relationship between Kyle and Kenzie as well as the secondary characters that shared in the relationship development. Overall, I highly enjoyed this book and would recommend it.

I really enjoyed Cake, so I had super high expectations for the rest of the series. I'm also a huge Survivor fan, so the Marooned plot line was a but too shticky for my liking. Every single detail of the show is mimicked. I've read other books loosely based off of reality shows, that had enough originality to make it their own. That was not the case in this book.

Also, there was no timeline or warning that we were stepping back in time, so reading this back to back after Cake was confusing, since the storyline didn't flow.

It was a fun read, but lost a few stars for the reasons above. I will likely read the rest of the series, just because I like this gang.

I loved this one almost as much as I did the first. Even now I'm smiling thinking about it. One thing I loved about it was how imperfect the hero and the heroine were - if you are looking for smooth moves, this is not the book for you. They were lazy or inept at times, embarrassed themselves, made bad decisions and suffered for them, could be klutzy, and I thoroughly enjoyed spending a few hours with them. If you had asked me if I would ever have read a book that took place in a reality show setting, my answer would be a very loud, uh, NO, prefaced with a few other words. But I loved this book and highly recommend it.

As with the first book, some serious topics are discussed.

Kyle and Kenzie make a great couple. There is humor in situations and funny dialog. When they first meet, Kenzie gets seasick and throws up on Kyle.Kenzie is a sweet character and Kyle grows up and out of the shadow of his famous brother. There is some drama, but no deep tortured angst.I read "Cake: A Love Story" first, which was an amazing book! So I would suggest reading that one first although you don't have t, the story line is easy to follow.I hope J. Bengtsson keeps writing as she is now one of my favorite authors. P.S. read "Fiercely Emma: Cake Series Book Three" too, you won't be disappointed. Lovely story, lovely McKallister family.

I loved Cake so when I saw this book was next in the series I quickly downloaded it. I was highly disappointed at first as it was slow to begin with. Kyle is not someone I really wanted to root for and his lack of motivation to do anything came off more annoying than anything else. I liked Kenzie right off the bat and loved her character development through out the book. The peripheral characters are what made this book for me. I loved Dale and Carl and how the whole reality show wove into the story line flawlessly. By the end of the book I was incredibly impressed with the authors ability to use this premise for character evolution and make it a page turner. I would definitely recommend this book with the qualifier that you have to stick with it through the beginning. You won’t be disappointed!

I loved Jake's story and was worried that I would not like Kyle's story. I have to say I think I loved Kyle's story better then Jake's. Kyle and Kenzie meet on the TV show that they both are competing to win a million dollars. Spending so much time together on the island Kenzie starts to having feelings for Kyle but Kyle is just being the flirt that he is. Will Kyle or Kenzie win the prize money or will they turn on each other ? I busted out laughing so many times with this book, love it !!!

I just read the first book in this series (Cake) and immediately decided to read this story. I'm so glad I did! While I have a soft spot in my heart for Jake and Casey, Kyle and Kenzie's romance seemed a bit deeper and more realistic. They weren't immediately in love, and half the book wasn't spent gushing over how hot the other one was. The dialogue was hilarious, and I found myself shaking with laughter a dozen times. Cake was great, and I think I liked the characters themselves a little more, but Second Best is definitely the better written of the two. If the author improves as much on the third book, it will be a masterpiece!

This book was significantly deeper than Cake which already dealt with pretty deep stuff. This family is put through the wringer!

This story takes place right before Jake meets Casey and takes us through Jake's surgery. We learn where Kyle went when Jake and Casey's relationship heats up (reality tv).

Kyle meets Kenzie on the reality show after she throws up on him. They bond. She falls for him; he's clueless. And then she betrays him.

The nice thing is that it doesn't end there. There's still a nice portion that explores what happens IRL when two people are living in the shadows of their family.

Great follow up to CAKE. This was in my TBR for a while, but wish I had gotten to it much sooner. I was happy and sad, right along with the characters. Several laugh out loud moments. I liked seeing another side of Jake and Casey's journey as well. Definitely a book about lost childhoods and finding your own way. I was cheering on everyone, even Dale.

First of all, let me say, you need to read this book! And if you haven't done so yet, you need to read the first book too! I am loving this series so much.

I have had a thing for Kyle since Cake and was doing my happy dance when I learnt he was getting his own book . He is a free and easy guy but deep down there's sensitivity and loyalty that will make you swoon. He has lived in his brother Jake's shadow for such a long time that it is second nature to him. And he's content to be there, it is his duty and privilege to be there for Jake. They both have been through so much, and they have a bond that is unbreakable.

Oh Kenzie....what a match she is for Kyle. She has wit and sagacity that brings about the best banter between them. She too has had to deal with hardships growing up, and I feel that bonds these two on a higher level. They meet on a reality tv show and the winner takes home a lot of money but at some point through the month they are stranded on an island to survive, Kenzie has to rethink her reasons for wanting to win. She comes from a small country town, but wants to spread her wings and start to live her own life. The longer she is on the island, the more confused she gets.

There are two more books to come in this series, and I truly can not wait for book 3 to arrive. Each one is a fantastic read, and learning more about the McKallister family only brings more joy for me. I hope we hear more about Kyle and Kenzie, as they are one of my favourite book couples ever.
Lastly, I love the cover! It depicts Kenzie's wavy-haired surfer boy to a T.

* I received a copy for an honest review.
** Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

As I completely fell for CAKE and devoured it, I had no idea what to expect from Kyle's story. It was just so filled with amazing emotional momentes, greatly crafted characters and very relatable situations. I can not express how amazing this series is and experiencing them in audio elevates them even more. The banter is spot on, the humanity in the emotional struggles and the level of humanity and love between the family. J. Bengtsson really has outdone herself! I can't wait for more!

I loved Cake so when I saw this book was next in the series I quickly downloaded it. I was highly disappointed at first as it was slow to begin with. Kyle is not someone I really wanted to root for and his lack of motivation to do anything came off more annoying than anything else. I liked Kenzie right off the bat and loved her character development through out the book. The peripheral characters are what made this book for me. I loved Dale and Carl and how the whole reality show wove into the story line flawlessly. By the end of the book I was incredibly impressed with the authors ability to use this premise for character evolution and make it a page turner. I would definitely recommend this book with the qualifier that you have to stick with it through the beginning. You won’t be disappointed!

I loved Jake's story and was worried that I would not like Kyle's story. I have to say I think I loved Kyle's story better then Jake's. Kyle and Kenzie meet on the TV show that they both are competing to win a million dollars. Spending so much time together on the island Kenzie starts to having feelings for Kyle but Kyle is just being the flirt that he is. Will Kyle or Kenzie win the prize money or will they turn on each other ? I busted out laughing so many times with this book, love it !!!

I just read the first book in this series (Cake) and immediately decided to read this story. I'm so glad I did! While I have a soft spot in my heart for Jake and Casey, Kyle and Kenzie's romance seemed a bit deeper and more realistic. They weren't immediately in love, and half the book wasn't spent gushing over how hot the other one was. The dialogue was hilarious, and I found myself shaking with laughter a dozen times. Cake was great, and I think I liked the characters themselves a little more, but Second Best is definitely the better written of the two. If the author improves as much on the third book, it will be a masterpiece!

This book was significantly deeper than Cake which already dealt with pretty deep stuff. This family is put through the wringer!

This story takes place right before Jake meets Casey and takes us through Jake's surgery. We learn where Kyle went when Jake and Casey's relationship heats up (reality tv).

Kyle meets Kenzie on the reality show after she throws up on him. They bond. She falls for him; he's clueless. And then she betrays him.

The nice thing is that it doesn't end there. There's still a nice portion that explores what happens IRL when two people are living in the shadows of their family.

Great follow up to CAKE. This was in my TBR for a while, but wish I had gotten to it much sooner. I was happy and sad, right along with the characters. Several laugh out loud moments. I liked seeing another side of Jake and Casey's journey as well. Definitely a book about lost childhoods and finding your own way. I was cheering on everyone, even Dale.

First of all, let me say, you need to read this book! And if you haven't done so yet, you need to read the first book too! I am loving this series so much.

I have had a thing for Kyle since Cake and was doing my happy dance when I learnt he was getting his own book . He is a free and easy guy but deep down there's sensitivity and loyalty that will make you swoon. He has lived in his brother Jake's shadow for such a long time that it is second nature to him. And he's content to be there, it is his duty and privilege to be there for Jake. They both have been through so much, and they have a bond that is unbreakable.

Oh Kenzie....what a match she is for Kyle. She has wit and sagacity that brings about the best banter between them. She too has had to deal with hardships growing up, and I feel that bonds these two on a higher level. They meet on a reality tv show and the winner takes home a lot of money but at some point through the month they are stranded on an island to survive, Kenzie has to rethink her reasons for wanting to win. She comes from a small country town, but wants to spread her wings and start to live her own life. The longer she is on the island, the more confused she gets.

There are two more books to come in this series, and I truly can not wait for book 3 to arrive. Each one is a fantastic read, and learning more about the McKallister family only brings more joy for me. I hope we hear more about Kyle and Kenzie, as they are one of my favourite book couples ever.
Lastly, I love the cover! It depicts Kenzie's wavy-haired surfer boy to a T.

* I received a copy for an honest review.
** Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

As I completely fell for CAKE and devoured it, I had no idea what to expect from Kyle's story. It was just so filled with amazing emotional momentes, greatly crafted characters and very relatable situations. I can not express how amazing this series is and experiencing them in audio elevates them even more. The banter is spot on, the humanity in the emotional struggles and the level of humanity and love between the family. J. Bengtsson really has outdone herself! I can't wait for more!

Cake was one of my top 3 reads of 2016. It was unexpected from a new author- the depth of emotions, the great story, the feels and laughter... I just loved it so much that I was kinda nervous about this second book. I so wanted to read it but I worried that it might not live up to my expectations.

The Theory of Second Best was absolutely fabulous! I enjoyed every minute of it. Once again a unique story line- so different than so many of the books out here. Lots of feels, laughter and great characters. Such a freaking great read!!!

Now I'm gonna be freaking out waiting for the next one!!!

I loved, loved Cake. I liked this book. It's a decent read, enough excitement to keep me awake during a slow night shift, I just don't love it. The two main characters meet about 25 percent of the way into the book. While I like fleshed out characters and backgrounds, this is over the top and repetitive. I did like the characters, especially Kyle, he grew and matured throughout the story. Despite the fact I don't watch reality t.v., but the Survivor knock off plot kept and my attention. I enjoyed the secondary characters, often more than the main characters. The romance was a very slow burn, I wound up not really caring.

I absolutely loved Cake, and was a little curious how much I'd like the second installment, but I ended up Loving it. It's a different speed from Cake, focusing on Kyle's perspective and his own issues that derived from his and Jake's horrific moment. It's more fun and light hearted as the majority of the book takes place on the island for the reality show Kyle goes on. The island aspect is honestly, hilarious, full of fun characters and swoony moments. This is a great read that didn't disappoint.

While I LOVED Cake, the blurb for this one left me a little bit apprehensive. So I waited to read it. I kinda wish I had read it right after Cake. It coincides with Cake time wise (which I sorta knew).

I loved Kenzie. I loved the island. The game, not so much (then again I loved Survivor the first few seasons but now I'm eh about them). I loved all of the Kyle POVs.

Ok, many of you will no doubt say I am being too critical of this book but I honestly felt the first book was an epic romance. It had me laughing out loud many times until tears ran down my face but it also had me crying ugly tears and needing to keep a box of tissues at hand. The author had me so invested in the lives of her two main characters that I was literally checking daily to see when her follow up book came out so I could catch a glimpse of an update into Jake and Casey's lives because I did not want to let them go. I had read the first book "Cake: A Love Story" through kindle unlimited and then immediately after finishing knew I had to buy it because I would want to reread it. And I did reread as I anxiously awaited for the second novel to come out. And you know what ? I still laughed until I cried and I was still a bawling mess even though I knew what to expect the second time I read it months after my first reading. This author created an epic romance that was amazing in "Cake." I had rated this first book 5 stars and if I could have I would have given it more stars and I would have honestly paid more for the privilege of owning it too. So you might say that this author is actually a victim of my very high expectations from her amazing debut novel.

I will be honest I did laugh out loud many times in this second book, but as I said previously the first book made me laugh till I cried. So see we have this pesky thing called expectations. As for the romance, it was really kind of flat becuase the main characters do not get together until the end. Again perhaps it is my pesky expectations because of the first book's whirlwind romance that starts pretty early on. And there may be some that say wait you can't get the main characters together too soon or the book won't be good. Those people would be sooooo wrong when it comes to " Cake."

But let me reiterate to those readers who come across this second book first that they should definitely get their hands on Ms. Bengtsson's debut novel. It is an epic tale and will stay with you long after you read it and you will not regret the time or money spent. This second book is good for a beach read, but won't be on your "omg I have to find time to reread this book " list. Well at least it is not on mine.

But based on the quality of the first book I will look for the third book in this series when it comes out and hopes it lives up to the high ideals created by "Cake." And my apologies to this author as she probably is a victim of my high expectations. I am sure she will get the last laugh on all her detractors like me when Hollywood comes calling and makes " Cake" into a movie and she makes millions of dollars but hey she will deserve all that money in my mind for creating Jake and Casey.

As much as I loved Cake (& read it a second time before this one), I loved Kyle's story even more. Maybe because I could identify with "lost & searching for purpose" a bit more than I could w/Jake's story.
Can't wait to read Emma's story! I wish I didn't have to adult today so I could just devour it... with a slice of cake, of course!

This was a unique book with a fun story. I loved the setting of the reality show Marooned. Kyle and Kensies personalities blended together perfectly. I loved how once the contest was over the story weaved its way into Jake and Casey's new life and then Jakes post surgery coma. It was fun to visit Kyles extended family again.

I actually liked kyle. He was just getting by being Jakes sidekick. I liked Kenzie as well. She had a way of looking at life in a happy way and did not let her tragedy rule her world. The island reality show was an interesting plot point. All of the contestants were so colorful. This was not as gripping as Jake and Cassie's story but it was fun and filled in some of the Jake drama. This was a fun read .

I guess I was so impressed by book number 1 (Cake) that it didn't help. If I compare it with other romance books, it would deserve five stars. From this author, who has proved to be extremely creative, I would expect her to avoid using the same formulas. But well, that's what an author is supposed to do after a success... For readers, if you avoid the expectations after reading Cake, you will enjoy better.

I found this book through Kindle Unlimited and as much as I enjoy the membership, some books are good but poorly written. This series, however is very well written, funny and heartbreaking at the same time. I really enjoyed Kyle's story. On to the next one, Emma's book.

The premise was good but the follow through lacking. I like Kyle and Kenzie but the situation is difficult. If you had not been told that there were on the equivalent of Survivor you would never know. I like Kyle's growth beyond Jake's tag along brother and his admittance to his part of Jake's past.

This author's ability to write such incredibly amazing dialog, blows my mind!! I laughed so many times, I had tears streaming down my face! I was forbidden to read in bed, because my abrupt shaking (laughing, but making no sound, would wake my husband!). Even though there is a deeply sad component to each character's life, the author writes in a way that makes the characters believable. Great read!!!

J. Bengtsson has become my favorite author. I am anxiously awaiting her next novel about Emma. Cake has been the best so far, but the story of Kyle and Kenzie was pretty great. I love the humor and the other emotions throughout the story. I'd love the next novel to include more about Jake, Casey, Kyle & Kenzie. I wanted to know more about Jake and Casey, while getting to know Kyle and Kenzie. If you loved Cake you'll like this book, too! J. Bengtsson is phenomenal at entertaining us through words.

Sometimes the second books are like xerox copies of the first...
same just not as crisp. Kyle had his own story and Kenzie complimented him well. I even laughed out loud during the time on the island! Can't wait for Emma's story!

I loved Jake's book, but had a lot of heavy subject matter. While this one has some glimpses into that subject, it is mostly lighter hearted. I can't even count how many times I actually laughed out loud because of Kyle. To be able to pull off jokes without facial expression or voice is an amazing talent. Very well done!!

Cake was my first book by this author, and i loved it. I saw that there were more of the series and had to reread Cake so could remember it all. Jake was great but totally loved Kyle. His fun loving attitude was great. Now to book three, Emma.

I loved this book!!!! The characters were so well developed. While my heart went out to Kyle and I felt for him, I thought this book was hysterical . I often found myself laughing out loud while listening.

Simply loved this read!! Cake is one of my faves...hands down and this was the perfect follow up. This read was funny and real...made me realize I missed this family!! Can't wait for the next story..I would love to hear from Kyle and Jake's parents and get even more info on this cast of characters.

I have read Cake at least 3 times and I have SO been looking forward to reading more from this author. This book did not disappoint. It wasn't a simple love story and I loved that their relationship was built on a friendship.

I loved this book. I laughed out loud at times and felt my heart breaking too. Im glad I overlooked how many pages the book has (I don't like books too long - my only reason for 4 stars) because this book is so easy to read and you can't help but wanting to know how it ends.

This book had so much to love. Kyle was adorable and funny. I laughed so hard I cried. He and Kenzie were great together. Small town girl who was ready to move away and start her life and a rock stars brother trying to find out who he is. Together they work to figure it out.

The tragedy makes this a creepy but Interesting story.....didn't really like the plot but kept me intrigued enough to finish.... Her books are very well written and makes u laugh out loud then look around to see if anyone noticed. Can't wait for the third one.

I am so glad this book gave me the chance to get to know Kyle. I liked him in Book1 (Cake) but the insight to Kyle and his perspective on his family tragedy made me love this series so much more. I cannot wait for the third book!!!

It can be read as a standalone. Author provides enough background to complete the storyline. For people that read the first book, it continues the story and fills in more background about the kidnapping.

If I thought I loved the first book then I am fan girl obsessed with the second book! You couldn't help but fall in love with Kyle and the rest of the island characters. You feel every emotion right along with the characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series!

Slow start because the characters had to be set up first, but worth it in the end. I don't think I would have enjoyed the romance as much without getting to know Kyle first. Loved the story, humor, romance, everything.

So well done that the only reason I couldn't give 5 stars is because I wanted more! We took this journey with Kyle and Kenzie but we didn't get to enjoy the love. I wanted just a bit more with therm as a couple in love.

I just finished ‘The Theory if Second Best’ and I am seriously loving this Cake series. This book was based around participation in a reality tv show and it sucked me in pretty close to immediately. Start this series! You won’t be disappointed.

I am so glad this book gave me the chance to get to know Kyle. I liked him in Book1 (Cake) but the insight to Kyle and his perspective on his family tragedy made me love this series so much more. I cannot wait for the third book!!!

It can be read as a standalone. Author provides enough background to complete the storyline. For people that read the first book, it continues the story and fills in more background about the kidnapping.

If I thought I loved the first book then I am fan girl obsessed with the second book! You couldn't help but fall in love with Kyle and the rest of the island characters. You feel every emotion right along with the characters. Can't wait for the next book in the series!

Slow start because the characters had to be set up first, but worth it in the end. I don't think I would have enjoyed the romance as much without getting to know Kyle first. Loved the story, humor, romance, everything.

So well done that the only reason I couldn't give 5 stars is because I wanted more! We took this journey with Kyle and Kenzie but we didn't get to enjoy the love. I wanted just a bit more with therm as a couple in love.

I just finished ‘The Theory if Second Best’ and I am seriously loving this Cake series. This book was based around participation in a reality tv show and it sucked me in pretty close to immediately. Start this series! You won’t be disappointed.

I enjoyed this a lot more than Cake. After the first 20% which talked about Jake, I really got into the story. I loved me some Kyle and Kenzie. I try felt like I was watching a reality show while I read this. 4 stars!

I read Cake and loved the plot and was waiting for this book. Kyle had a part in Cake that really needed a voice more of his roll with Jake then just a little brother and this book Theory or second best did that. Having Kenzie role playing off Kyle brought out a sweeter side of Kyle and not just a joking 22 year old boy who follow his big brother around. I love this book just as much as Cake and looking forward to the next book regarding Emma's role in the McKallister family story.

Loved reading this book. I had some laugh out loud moments and also brought in the main characters from the previous book Cake. I'll continue to read this author - I feel like I'm right there with the characters. Reading this book makes me want to go back and reread Cake again.

Loved the first book and the second book was just as good! You really bond with the characters and their love bloomed so sweetly. Starts off slow, but picks up quick. Its not as raunchy as the first one but still doesn't disappoint. Can't wait till the next one comes out ?

Wonderful characters and fun story.
This new author knows how to put the emotions into her characters and onto the page. I laughed out loud and became chocked up almost crying in another part. Very moving.
I'm looking forward to the next book. This author has a good writing future ahead of her.
Her books are romance, not erotica.

This is a must read series. Well writen, this author is great. NO boring words in this book. I could not put either book in this series down. i read until two in the morning. I am sad it is over and can't wait for book 3!!!!!!!!!

I absolutely loved this book. Even though this was the second book in a series the author did a great job of giving you the information from the first book to move the story along without you feeling like you were reading the first book all over again.

Loved the first book and the second book was just as good! You really bond with the characters and their love bloomed so sweetly. Starts off slow, but picks up quick. Its not as raunchy as the first one but still doesn't disappoint. Can't wait till the next one comes out ?

This is a must read series. Well writen, this author is great. NO boring words in this book. I could not put either book in this series down. i read until two in the morning. I am sad it is over and can't wait for book 3!!!!!!!!!

I absolutely loved this book. Even though this was the second book in a series the author did a great job of giving you the information from the first book to move the story along without you feeling like you were reading the first book all over again.

Another enjoyable read by this talented author. The characters are extremely likable, the dialogue is clever and witty, and the storyline is fun and original. Sequel to: Cake, the first book in the series, which I recommend you read first. You will enjoy them both.