As with any anthology, I loved some stories, didn't like some others, and found still others in between. But I was pleasantly surprised to find enjoyment in the vast majority of these tales, probably because they center around food and love (family/friends/romance) and culture — a fantastic example of the power of #ownvoices rep.

[detailed reviews to come]

"Rain" by Sangu Mandanna | ⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Kings and Queens" by Elsie Chapman | ⭐⭐⭐⭐

"The Grand Ishq Adventure" by Sandhya Menon | ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

"Sugar and Spite" by Rin Chupeco | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Moments to Remember" by Adi Alsaid | ⭐⭐⭐

"The Slender One" by Caroline Tung Richmond

"Gimme Some Sugar" by Jay Coles

"The Missing Ingredient" by Rebecca Roanhorse

"Hearts a la Cart" by Karuna Riazi

"Bloom" by Phoebe North

"A Bountiful Film" by S.K. Ali

"Side Work" by Sara Farzian

"Panaderia ~ Pasteleria" by Anna-Marie McLemore

Recommended by CW @ The Quiet Pond.