Book Title: Mixed Signals
Author: B.K. Borison
Series: Lovelight #3
Publication Date: 01 Aug 2023
Length: 416 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
*** Review ***
Mixed Signals by B.K. Borison is a delightful romantic comedy that takes readers on an enchanting journey through the charming small town of Inglewild. At the heart of this heartwarming tale is Layla Dupree, a small-town baker who has all but given up on love. Despite her best efforts and owning the most romantic bakery in Inglewild, Layla’s dating experiences have been nothing short of disappointing. Enter Caleb Alvarez, the handsome local teacher, who, after rescuing Layla from yet another disastrous date, proposes an intriguing solution. With the promise of no-strings-attached dating, Caleb aims to restore Layla’s faith in men while she rates his romantic prowess. What follows is a captivating story of friendship, fake dating experiments, and a journey to discover love where they least expected it. Set against the backdrop of a close-knit community,
As I delved into the pages of B.K. Borison’s Mixed Signals, I found myself transported to the enchanting world of Inglewild, a small town bursting with charm and character. The book’s synopsis introduced me to Layla Dupree, the endearing bakery owner, whose quest for love had left her disheartened and skeptical. Little did she know that her life was about to take a delightful turn with the entrance of Caleb Alvarez, the handsome local teacher with an irresistible proposition.
From the start, I was captivated by the dual point of view storytelling, which allowed me to intimately experience both Layla and Caleb’s thoughts and emotions. The friends to lovers trope never fails to tug at my heartstrings, and their blossoming relationship was no exception. Amidst the backdrop of a small town filled with warmth and camaraderie, Layla and Caleb’s romance began to unfold, accompanied by the adorable presence of Sunshine, the golden retriever hero, adding a heartwarming touch to their story.
The concept of fake dating was an intriguing twist, and the experimental dates were nothing short of entertaining. It was endearing to witness Layla’s struggles with dating and how Caleb stepped in to offer his assistance. As their story progressed, their connection deepened, and their banter brimmed with teasing and wit, making them an irresistible duo.
One of the highlights of the book was their shared love for escape rooms. It added a unique layer to their relationship, showcasing their compatibility and how well they understood each other. Their chemistry was undeniable, and as their feelings evolved, the slow burn romance became all the more enchanting.
The author’s portrayal of Inglewild and its community was vivid, creating a sense of belonging and nostalgia. It was evident that the side characters played an essential role in enhancing the overall charm of the story. Though the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I appreciated the subtle encouragement to read the other books in the Lovelight series, allowing readers to delve even deeper into the world of Inglewild and its residents.
Despite the book’s overall delightful tone, there were aspects that left me somewhat conflicted. The conflict that emerged felt somewhat sudden and out of character for a certain individual, creating a minor bump in an otherwise smooth narrative. Additionally, the third act miscommunication trope, though worked out swiftly, was a tad exhausting. However, these minor setbacks did not overshadow the enjoyment of the book.
Layla and Caleb’s genuine personalities were the driving force behind the novel’s charm. Layla’s warmth and Caleb’s steadfast nature made them a perfect match, and it was heartwarming to witness their emotional journey unfold. The supporting characters added depth to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives within Inglewild.
The author’s writing style infused the pages with heart and emotion, beautifully portraying the evolution of Layla and Caleb’s relationship. The descriptive prose allowed me to savor the culinary delights from Layla’s bakery, leaving me craving coffee with cream and butter croissants.
B.K. Borison crafted a sweet and satisfying romance, giving the readers all the feels as the characters navigated through love’s complexities. The book’s ability to evoke a sense of home and comfort made it a delightful reading experience, perfect for anyone seeking a heartwarming romance set in a small, close-knit community.
In conclusion, Mixed Signals is a feel-good romantic comedy that offers a delightful escape into the charming world of Inglewild. Layla and Caleb’s journey to love is a celebration of friendship, vulnerability, and second chances. If you enjoy small-town romance, practice (fake) dating, and the magic of finding love where you least expect it, then this book is an absolute must-read. So, grab a cup of coffee and a butter croissant, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Mixed Signals. You won’t be disappointed.