Gabbi Grey’s Love in Mission City: The Shorts is a delightful collection that brings together a novella and four short stories, each set in the quaint and picturesque Mission City, nestled in the Cedar Valley of southwestern British Columbia. This collection is a celebration of love in its many forms, offering readers a heartwarming escape into the lives of men who find romance in unexpected places. Grey’s work is a testament to her ability to craft engaging, contemporary small-town gay romances that resonate with authenticity and charm.

The collection opens with Page Against the Machine, a 25k novella that sets the tone for the entire box set. Here, we meet Dickens, a bookstore owner who cherishes the quietude of his literary haven. His world is turned upside down when Spike, a rugged motorcycle repairman, opens shop next door. The story is a classic enemies-to-lovers tale, enriched by the opposites-attract trope. Grey masterfully captures the tension and chemistry between Dickens and Spike, making their journey from animosity to love both believable and compelling. The inclusion of Aristotle, the cuddly cat, adds a layer of warmth and humor, making this novella a standout piece in the collection.

Next, The Lightkeeper’s Love Affair introduces us to Ben, a recent graduate, and Isaac, a lightkeeper. Set against the backdrop of a winter storm, this 10k story explores the theme of forced proximity, as Ben and Isaac find themselves sharing a hotel room. Grey’s portrayal of Ben’s internal conflict and burgeoning attraction to Isaac is both tender and relatable. The presence of Buddy, the adorable beagle, adds a touch of lightheartedness, ensuring that the story remains engaging and endearing.

Not in it for the Money is a 5k story that delves into themes of grief and unexpected love. August, reeling from the sudden loss of his sister, finds solace in the arms of his employee, Julian. Grey handles the delicate subject of mourning with sensitivity, allowing the characters’ emotions to unfold naturally. The story’s brevity does not detract from its emotional depth, and readers will find themselves rooting for August and Julian as they navigate their way toward a hopeful future.

In Marcus’s Cadence, Grey explores the concept of second chances through the lens of a 7k instalove story. Cadence, looking to sell his childhood refuge, encounters Marcus, his teenage crush, as a potential buyer. The sparks that fly between them are palpable, and Grey skillfully captures the nostalgia and longing that accompany rekindled feelings. The presence of Kiki, the malti-poo, adds a delightful touch of whimsy to this sweet and satisfying tale.

The collection concludes with Ace’s Place, a 13k story that combines themes of redemption and vulnerability. Derek, seeking a fresh start in a small town, crosses paths with Harold, the local golden boy. Grey’s exploration of their burgeoning relationship is nuanced, highlighting the challenges of overcoming past mistakes and embracing vulnerability. The inclusion of hockey and a nosy Bouvier adds layers of complexity and humor, making this story a fitting end to the collection.

Overall, Love in Mission City: The Shorts is a testament to Gabbi Grey’s talent for crafting engaging and heartfelt romances. Each story is imbued with a sense of place, capturing the charm and allure of small-town life. Grey’s characters are well-developed and relatable, each grappling with their own challenges and desires. The collection’s themes of love, loss, and redemption are universal, ensuring that readers from all walks of life will find something to connect with.

For fans of contemporary gay romance, Grey’s work is reminiscent of authors like Annabeth Albert and Roan Parrish, who also excel in creating rich, character-driven stories set in small towns. However, Grey’s unique voice and ability to weave humor and warmth into her narratives set her apart, making this collection a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming escape.

In conclusion, Love in Mission City: The Shorts is a delightful collection that offers a perfect blend of romance, humor, and heart. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Gabbi Grey or new to her work, this collection is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a warmth in your heart.