Mix 'n' Match: A Wayward Ink Publishing Anthology Kindle Edition

* I was given a copy of this book in exchange of a honest review.*

The anthologies of Wayward Ink Publishing are always a delightful blend of hot stories with meaningful ones and more often than not, combination of the two. This is even more true for “Mix ‘N’Match“, the anthology celebrating love that knows no borders, no cultural differences or skin color, the one that is capable of bringing people born and bread thousands of miles away from each other together and keeping them so despite the hardships they may encounter.

Each one of them had something which I liked, made me smile and think. A Touch of Paradise is a story in which Alina Popescu showcases her trademark type of writing that is elegant, easy and youthful. Lily Velden meets the sea and land in a story that its heart felt and deeply touching and shows us that the only place where one has to Belong is in the heart of his loved one. Finally Dale Cameron Lowry proves that neither culture, nor religion, miles or years can stop the true yearning and that Home is only where the heart is.

In this whole celebration of romance and cultures, there are 3 that stayed with me, I’ll surely re-read and would like to give them 5 brilliant stars.

Forbidden by Layla Dorine

When freedom comes to a small town with small minded people in the shape of a handsome drifter, there are always consequences. Sage shatters Eugene’s world, filled with prejudice and misunderstanding, to make it whole again – this time perfect with every piece on it’s place. Layla’s writing style is astonishing – mature, with the heavy warmth of the south, stirred by the wind of freedom, love and humanity.

Deceptive Histories by Eric Gober

There is something very characteristic about Eric’s stories. Even if you try to resist it, you can’t help being pulled in from the first sentence right into the world he paints in an irresistible way. Both of the characters are of mixed ancestry, and the way present and past are mixed makes an intriguing story to be read in one breath. Saying more would be a spoiler so just sit back and enjoy.

A Hopeless Mirage by Kevin Caucher

I didn’t know what to expect as I’ve never read anything by this author and to say that I was pleasantly surprised is an understatement. I loved this from the first word to the last and I can term it sweet despite the hardships Guy had to go through. I’ve never wanted more to pull a character out of the page, give him a hug and then a slight kick in the ass to make him go for his dream. Absolutely delightful story!

One thing I love about anthologies is that you get to taste the diversity of interpretations of one and the same topic. There’s something for everyone and I’m sure that one or more of the stories in Mix ‘N’ Match will become your favorites!

“He wanted to pull Isaac against him, closing the miniscule gap that remained between them. Yet this fierce physical desire was countermanded by the knowledge that such a thing was impossible, taboo, and conflicting impulses left him frozen in place.”

4 stars! What a beautiful mix of books and love stories!

Normally I don’t read boxed sets or Anthologies, but I really loved this book! Each book is different and unique in it’s own way. And each story taps into different themes. I don’t think I could pick one that was my favorite. I loved each one in their own way! Perfect “Mix” of books!

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**