I dived into this story having never seen West Side Story so it’s entirely possible I missed out on any homages to the musical.
Angelo and Mariana’s feuding families collide when their respective mariachi bands are pitted against each other in a life-changing mariachi competition. This is a fun, well-rounded romance with just the right amount of stakes and tension. It’s easy to see why Angelo and Mariana would be attracted to each other. They are both talented musicians and driven young professionals who help take care of their younger siblings. This book has the work/life balance and competency porn of a 2010’s romance novel. It’s a fun ride with a mild heat level.
I hesitate to call this enemies or rivals to lovers. The feud in this book is really between the family patriarchs and everyone else has gone along with it out of respect but doesn’t take it that seriously.
I can’t wait to check out the next book about Mariana’s headstrong sister. Also this is another Montlake (Amazon’s romance imprint) title. I’m always up for whatever they put out