B.K. Borison's Mixed Signals is a delightful exploration of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of modern dating. Set against the charming backdrop of Inglewild, a town known for its romantic allure, the novel follows Layla Dupree, a bakery owner who has seemingly given up on finding true love. Her journey is both relatable and engaging, making this book a compelling read for anyone who has ever felt disillusioned by the dating scene.

The premise of Mixed Signals is both simple and intriguing. Layla, tired of disappointing dates and ghosting partners, finds herself in a unique arrangement with Caleb Alvarez, a man who proposes a month of no-strings-attached dating. This setup allows Borison to delve into the nuances of modern relationships, exploring themes of trust, vulnerability, and the often unspoken expectations that come with dating. The concept of a "no-strings" relationship is not new, but Borison's execution is fresh and engaging, largely due to her skillful character development and the palpable chemistry between the protagonists.

Layla Dupree is a character that many readers will find themselves rooting for. Her experiences with love and dating are portrayed with authenticity, capturing the frustrations and hopes that come with searching for a meaningful connection. Layla's passion for her bakery adds another layer to her character, symbolizing her desire to create something beautiful and fulfilling, both in her professional and personal life. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate her feelings and redefine what love means to her.

Caleb Alvarez, on the other hand, is a refreshing take on the romantic lead. He is not the typical brooding hero often found in romance novels. Instead, Caleb is portrayed as genuine, kind, and supportive, qualities that make him an ideal partner for Layla. His proposition to help Layla regain her faith in men is both endearing and intriguing, setting the stage for a relationship that is built on mutual respect and understanding. The chemistry between Layla and Caleb is electric, and Borison does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation as their relationship evolves.

One of the standout aspects of Mixed Signals is Borison's ability to balance humor and heart. The novel is peppered with witty dialogue and humorous situations that keep the tone light and engaging. At the same time, Borison does not shy away from exploring deeper emotional themes, such as the fear of vulnerability and the courage it takes to open oneself up to love. This balance makes the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a satisfying blend of romance and introspection.

In terms of writing style, Borison's prose is crisp and engaging, with vivid descriptions that bring the town of Inglewild and its inhabitants to life. The setting of the bakery, in particular, is beautifully rendered, with descriptions of Layla's creations that are sure to make readers' mouths water. The bakery serves as a metaphor for Layla's journey, representing both her creative passion and her desire for a fulfilling relationship.

Comparatively, Mixed Signals shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels, such as Sally Thorne's The Hating Game and Christina Lauren's The Unhoneymooners. Like these works, Borison's novel explores the complexities of modern relationships with humor and heart, while also offering a fresh perspective on the genre. However, what sets Mixed Signals apart is its focus on the idea of a "no-strings" relationship and the exploration of how such an arrangement can evolve into something deeper and more meaningful.

Overall, Mixed Signals is a charming and heartfelt novel that will resonate with readers who have ever felt disillusioned by love. Borison's skillful character development, engaging plot, and exploration of themes such as trust, vulnerability, and self-discovery make this book a standout in the contemporary romance genre. Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply looking for a feel-good read, Mixed Signals is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed belief in the power of love.

For those interested in exploring more about this delightful novel, you can find it on Goodreads.