“Peanut” is the much anticipated sequel to “Shortcake” and this time around, with the primary focus on childhood best friends, Nick and Riley. Did Lucy Watson deliver the humor and banter? Absolutely. She has a way with words and can definitely bring out the giggles, and of course her writing style is right up my alley. Did the sequel live up to my expectations? Sadly no. I liked the novel, but I just didn't love it.

I felt as though the ‘romance’ was focused too much on Riley’s POV and her journey with rare glimpses of Nick in between. I would agree with other readers in regards to the plot deteriorating towards the end. Also their lack of chemistry didn’t do it for me. I don’t know, it was missing that something something Nick and Em had in “Shortcake”.

Lastly, I must confess… In my heart of hearts, I was really rooting for Mara and Nick to get together. Sure their interaction was very very brief in the prequel but please tell me I wasn’t the only one feeling the oozing tension (more so potential) bleeding through the pages between them?

Nonetheless, call me a simp—I will always read whatever the author spits out. Now I will have to sit impatiently until Mara’s book comes out. Who will she end up with— Jesse or Winston? The possibilities are endless.