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Love & Tacos #2
Kiss Me, Mi Amor
It turns out that a fake relationship is the perfect recipe for a love that sizzles hotter than Santa Barbara's spiciest salsa--when it's between enemies....
Enrique Montez, smooth-talking heir to the Taco King empire, is man enough to admit that he made a critical error when he underestimated Carolina Flores. The agricultural hotshot should have been an easy conquest--who would turn down the chance to partner with California's largest fast-food chain? But instead of signing her name on the dotted line, Carolina has Enrique eating out of the palm of her hand, and when fate steps in with an unexpected opportunity, Enrique is willing to do whatever it takes to capture her heart.
Growing up as the daughter of farmworkers, Carolina spent her youth picking strawberries in the fields of Santa Maria and vowing to improve the lives of people like her parents. Now, as one of only a few Latina farm owners, she has no time for romance and she's certainly not about to let the notorious Montez brother anywhere near her business--even if just being near Enrique makes her skin tingle.
But she is willing to let him help get her overinvolved family off her back. When Carolina's father and her lovelorn sisters mistake Enrique for her (nonexistent) boyfriend, she reluctantly agrees to a series of pretend dates to their town's traditional Mexican-American holiday celebrations. Soon the fake feelings turn real and both Carolina and Enrique must convince each other to take a chance on love before their vacation romance is over.
Enrique Montez, smooth-talking heir to the Taco King empire, is man enough to admit that he made a critical error when he underestimated Carolina Flores. The agricultural hotshot should have been an easy conquest--who would turn down the chance to partner with California's largest fast-food chain? But instead of signing her name on the dotted line, Carolina has Enrique eating out of the palm of her hand, and when fate steps in with an unexpected opportunity, Enrique is willing to do whatever it takes to capture her heart.
Growing up as the daughter of farmworkers, Carolina spent her youth picking strawberries in the fields of Santa Maria and vowing to improve the lives of people like her parents. Now, as one of only a few Latina farm owners, she has no time for romance and she's certainly not about to let the notorious Montez brother anywhere near her business--even if just being near Enrique makes her skin tingle.
But she is willing to let him help get her overinvolved family off her back. When Carolina's father and her lovelorn sisters mistake Enrique for her (nonexistent) boyfriend, she reluctantly agrees to a series of pretend dates to their town's traditional Mexican-American holiday celebrations. Soon the fake feelings turn real and both Carolina and Enrique must convince each other to take a chance on love before their vacation romance is over.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 9, 2023
38 people are currently reading
7180 people want to read
About the author
Alana Albertson
106 books949 followersAlana Albertson is a multi-award winning author, current President of Romance Writers of America's Contemporary Romance Chapter and the former President of both Romance Writers of America’s Young Adult and Chick Lit chapters. Alana Albertson holds a Masters of Education from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Stanford University. A recovering professional ballroom dancer, Alana currently writes contemporary romance, new adult and young adult fiction. She lives in San Diego, California, with her husband, two young sons, and four dogs. When she’s not spending her time playing with her sons, dancing, or saving dogs from high kill shelters through Pugs N Roses, the rescue she founded, she can be found watching episodes Homeland, Devious Maids, or Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
May 22, 2023
I am so excited to dive back into Ramon and Julieta's universe by reading another Love & Tacos book while devouring shrimp tacos and nursing a margarita for a more fulfilling reading experience!
This time, the main story revolves around Enrique Montez, the middle brother of the Montez Klan, and Carolina Flores, a quite likable character in the enemies-to-lovers and sunshine-meets-grump trope.
Enrique is the heir to their Taco King empire and desires to switch up the business by meeting with production suppliers, which leads him to the Flores Family and its rueful, strict owner, Carolina Flores. He arranges a meeting and farm tour, but he doesn't think through that his family members also want to join him when he realizes the meeting is scheduled shortly after Christmas.
Enrique is a soft-talking, diplomatic, and friendly person who thinks he can charm anyone with his sweet talking and negotiation skills. However, he fails at his job when it comes to Carolina, who is tough and extra rigid, seeing bullshit from miles away.
Carolina is raised by traditional Mexican parents who push her to get married and have children, but Carolina has no intention of doing what people say. She ignores dating and is looking for her significant other, despite her sister Blanca arranging a meeting with Enrique behind her back. When she lays her eyes on him, she cannot resist his charms, just like a moth to a flame. However, she denies her feelings and acts extra rude around him. Normally, this kind of behavior would push a regular guy away, but luckily Enrique is not ordinary and can't easily be intimidated. On the contrary, he's extremely intrigued by this strikingly passionate woman.
When Carolina's father's health deteriorates just before the town's traditional Los Posadas celebration, she reluctantly acts like Enrique is her boyfriend to give her father the moral support he needs. That fake dating trope helps Carolina to think freely about what she truly wants to do with her life, her real dreams, passions, and how to make a plan to follow them. The more time she spends with Enrique, the less she can act like she doesn't have feelings for him. She starts falling so deep.
Just like the characters in the first book, Ramon and Julieta, Carolina and Enrique suffer from the antics of their rigid family rules that prevent them from finding their own freedom to pursue happiness. Their families' controlling manners suffocate them and bring out different reactions: Enrique turns into a people pleaser and softer negotiator, while Julieta turns into a rebel denying her chance to find her significant other.
Overall, it was an engaging, enjoyable, thought-provoking adventure that helped us explore more about Mexican culture and traditions. I enjoyed the second book in the series, and if the author decides to write more, I'll happily read and enjoy each of the sequels as well.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this heartwarming book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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This time, the main story revolves around Enrique Montez, the middle brother of the Montez Klan, and Carolina Flores, a quite likable character in the enemies-to-lovers and sunshine-meets-grump trope.
Enrique is the heir to their Taco King empire and desires to switch up the business by meeting with production suppliers, which leads him to the Flores Family and its rueful, strict owner, Carolina Flores. He arranges a meeting and farm tour, but he doesn't think through that his family members also want to join him when he realizes the meeting is scheduled shortly after Christmas.
Enrique is a soft-talking, diplomatic, and friendly person who thinks he can charm anyone with his sweet talking and negotiation skills. However, he fails at his job when it comes to Carolina, who is tough and extra rigid, seeing bullshit from miles away.
Carolina is raised by traditional Mexican parents who push her to get married and have children, but Carolina has no intention of doing what people say. She ignores dating and is looking for her significant other, despite her sister Blanca arranging a meeting with Enrique behind her back. When she lays her eyes on him, she cannot resist his charms, just like a moth to a flame. However, she denies her feelings and acts extra rude around him. Normally, this kind of behavior would push a regular guy away, but luckily Enrique is not ordinary and can't easily be intimidated. On the contrary, he's extremely intrigued by this strikingly passionate woman.
When Carolina's father's health deteriorates just before the town's traditional Los Posadas celebration, she reluctantly acts like Enrique is her boyfriend to give her father the moral support he needs. That fake dating trope helps Carolina to think freely about what she truly wants to do with her life, her real dreams, passions, and how to make a plan to follow them. The more time she spends with Enrique, the less she can act like she doesn't have feelings for him. She starts falling so deep.
Just like the characters in the first book, Ramon and Julieta, Carolina and Enrique suffer from the antics of their rigid family rules that prevent them from finding their own freedom to pursue happiness. Their families' controlling manners suffocate them and bring out different reactions: Enrique turns into a people pleaser and softer negotiator, while Julieta turns into a rebel denying her chance to find her significant other.
Overall, it was an engaging, enjoyable, thought-provoking adventure that helped us explore more about Mexican culture and traditions. I enjoyed the second book in the series, and if the author decides to write more, I'll happily read and enjoy each of the sequels as well.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this heartwarming book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
medium blog
June 1, 2023
Interesting depiction of a traditional Mexican family romance. Frustrating in many parts but good ending. 3.5 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is definitely a cultural read. You are going to learn a lot about the culture of the Mexican Americans. I love the fact that Carolina, the female lead, is a landowner and a business owner. Very difficult to do in this arena, but she is positively depicted as a strong leader in many ways.
The story also dives into stereotypical familial issues that tend to make me a little crazy. I personally would have a terrible time living in that sort of situation, but I appreciate the fact that it’s addressed in this book.
The author tells a wonderful story that includes romance and relationship-building along the way. I love their connection and the respect between each other that had to grow right along with the development of the relationship.
I appreciate that they’re both strong independent people with goals and care for the community. Strong family ties and structure make this an interesting read. The two main characters have a lot to learn about each other and do so with a little bit of heat and spice built in too.
There were definitely some frustrations for me being who I am. I appreciate and enjoyed the ending but what her father did I have a really hard time accepting, especially because of what she gave up in order to get back into the family. That type of ending really bothered me.
Overall Kiss Me, Mi Amor is intriguing and engaging. A sweet romance with strong family ties.
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/kiss-me-mi-a...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is definitely a cultural read. You are going to learn a lot about the culture of the Mexican Americans. I love the fact that Carolina, the female lead, is a landowner and a business owner. Very difficult to do in this arena, but she is positively depicted as a strong leader in many ways.
The story also dives into stereotypical familial issues that tend to make me a little crazy. I personally would have a terrible time living in that sort of situation, but I appreciate the fact that it’s addressed in this book.
The author tells a wonderful story that includes romance and relationship-building along the way. I love their connection and the respect between each other that had to grow right along with the development of the relationship.
I appreciate that they’re both strong independent people with goals and care for the community. Strong family ties and structure make this an interesting read. The two main characters have a lot to learn about each other and do so with a little bit of heat and spice built in too.
There were definitely some frustrations for me being who I am. I appreciate and enjoyed the ending but what her father did I have a really hard time accepting, especially because of what she gave up in order to get back into the family. That type of ending really bothered me.
Overall Kiss Me, Mi Amor is intriguing and engaging. A sweet romance with strong family ties.
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/kiss-me-mi-a...
July 4, 2023
Happy release day.
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for a copy of this to review - it will be out July 4th.
Very cute cover, and mouth-watering food references, but I'm sad to say this was disappointing; 2 stars.
I found the setting and Mexican-American cultural aspects, like plentiful food and Spanish phrases, very well-developed and fun to read. Carolina's hobby of dancing with the Ballet Folklórico was a cool inclusion, and the farming stuff appealed to my cottagecore heart.
But the romance was not nearly enough to save the book for me, even added to what I liked above. I got off to a bad start with our leading man, Enrique, who had an unpleasant "voice" to read through during his POVs. Early on, he says something dismissive to Julieta (who I gather is from the first book I haven't read) when she mentions saying Latines versus Hispanics to be more inclusive. That was annoying. And then came the other parts of the story I disliked.
Carolina's family is very heteronormative and very "traditional" about gender roles. It was to the point that if it was going to be drilled in that much, why not make the main romance queer and defy all that? Definitely off-putting for me as a reader. Also, too much Catholicism, between Carolina talking about it and the event they attend playing Mary and Joseph...Not fun to read for me.
The technical side of the writing was also kind of meh. At one point, back to back sentences describe Carolina as smelling something good in the kitchen, though she can't recognize it, though she has a "good nose". This contradictory passage was conflating strength of sense of smell versus scent recognition. Weird.
Not a book I had fun reading, but I'm sure it'll find its readers.
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for a copy of this to review - it will be out July 4th.
Very cute cover, and mouth-watering food references, but I'm sad to say this was disappointing; 2 stars.
I found the setting and Mexican-American cultural aspects, like plentiful food and Spanish phrases, very well-developed and fun to read. Carolina's hobby of dancing with the Ballet Folklórico was a cool inclusion, and the farming stuff appealed to my cottagecore heart.
But the romance was not nearly enough to save the book for me, even added to what I liked above. I got off to a bad start with our leading man, Enrique, who had an unpleasant "voice" to read through during his POVs. Early on, he says something dismissive to Julieta (who I gather is from the first book I haven't read) when she mentions saying Latines versus Hispanics to be more inclusive. That was annoying. And then came the other parts of the story I disliked.
Carolina's family is very heteronormative and very "traditional" about gender roles. It was to the point that if it was going to be drilled in that much, why not make the main romance queer and defy all that? Definitely off-putting for me as a reader. Also, too much Catholicism, between Carolina talking about it and the event they attend playing Mary and Joseph...Not fun to read for me.
The technical side of the writing was also kind of meh. At one point, back to back sentences describe Carolina as smelling something good in the kitchen, though she can't recognize it, though she has a "good nose". This contradictory passage was conflating strength of sense of smell versus scent recognition. Weird.
Not a book I had fun reading, but I'm sure it'll find its readers.
2023
October 22, 2025Latine Heritage Month TBR
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
May 7, 2023
2.5 stars - While I really liked the setting and the ideas of the plot (traditional first gen family in the US, family owned businesses, ethical agriculture, etc.), there was so much telling rather than showing in the writing that everything felt pretty flat. That included both the romantic dynamic between the leads and the family dyamics, so that made the overall impact of the story diminished
November 29, 2023
Originally gave it three stars but this book pissed me off just as much as every summer after did so it was only fair I gave it the same rating.
Maybe it’s my own toxic family trauma but the way she just let her family walk all over her and still continue to take advantage of her WHILE SUPPORTING THEM ALL 😤 no maam. No thank you. Couldn’t be me. I think the fuck not.
Maybe it’s my own toxic family trauma but the way she just let her family walk all over her and still continue to take advantage of her WHILE SUPPORTING THEM ALL 😤 no maam. No thank you. Couldn’t be me. I think the fuck not.
July 21, 2023
Kiss Me, Mi Amor immediately grabbed my attention with the gorgeous cover! Then I saw it was a Taming of the Shrew retelling inspired by the author’s mother’s family. It also has fake dating, enemies to lovers vibes, culture clashes, grumpy sunshine vibes, and a swoony hero!
Enrique is the smooth-talking heir to the fast food empire, Taco King. He wants to switch up the business by meeting with suppliers, which leads him to the heroine’s family farm. Carolina is first generation Mexican-American, one of California’s top female farmers, and the current owner of the farm. While Enrique is ready to sweet talk his way into her good graces, Carolina is not about to easily fall for Enrique’s charms. But when Carolina's father grows ill and he and her sisters mistake Enrique for her (nonexistent) boyfriend, she reluctantly agrees to a series of fake dates to their town's traditional Mexican-American holiday celebrations. Soon the fake feelings turn real and Carolina and Enrique have to acknowledge their real feelings, as well as deal with her complicated family ties.
I thought this one was okay, but I had a lot of issues with it. Carolina’s family is very “old school, traditional”, especially her father: courting, asking the father’s permission, not going out at night/staying out, marriage first, etc, are just many of his strong, Catholic “family beliefs” for Carolina and her sister. That just wasn’t my fav to read and it heavily influences Carolina’s life and relationship possibility with Enrique. There is a lot of telling instead of showing as well and repetitiveness within the story. I just wasn’t invested in the characters or the romance. I did like seeing Enrique learn more about farmers and putting in some actual work of his own to learn.
Thanks to the publisher (Berkley) for a copy, all thoughts in this review are my own.
Enrique is the smooth-talking heir to the fast food empire, Taco King. He wants to switch up the business by meeting with suppliers, which leads him to the heroine’s family farm. Carolina is first generation Mexican-American, one of California’s top female farmers, and the current owner of the farm. While Enrique is ready to sweet talk his way into her good graces, Carolina is not about to easily fall for Enrique’s charms. But when Carolina's father grows ill and he and her sisters mistake Enrique for her (nonexistent) boyfriend, she reluctantly agrees to a series of fake dates to their town's traditional Mexican-American holiday celebrations. Soon the fake feelings turn real and Carolina and Enrique have to acknowledge their real feelings, as well as deal with her complicated family ties.
I thought this one was okay, but I had a lot of issues with it. Carolina’s family is very “old school, traditional”, especially her father: courting, asking the father’s permission, not going out at night/staying out, marriage first, etc, are just many of his strong, Catholic “family beliefs” for Carolina and her sister. That just wasn’t my fav to read and it heavily influences Carolina’s life and relationship possibility with Enrique. There is a lot of telling instead of showing as well and repetitiveness within the story. I just wasn’t invested in the characters or the romance. I did like seeing Enrique learn more about farmers and putting in some actual work of his own to learn.
Thanks to the publisher (Berkley) for a copy, all thoughts in this review are my own.
November 10, 2025
I loved the overall message of this story and the attention it brings to Latin women who grow up under the weight of traditional expectations around marriage and family. This author continues to do a fantastic job of highlighting Latin culture and the very real challenges that both men and women face.
I actually connected with this book even more than Book One. Carolina’s story hit close to home. I might not have lived her exact experiences, but I completely understood her struggle with old-school family expectations. Hispanic parents don’t play when it comes to dating. If you bring someone home to meet your dad, you might as well start picking wedding dates. That part made me laugh and nod in agreement because it’s so true.
What I loved most was how Carolina was portrayed. She was successful but humble. As well as being grounded in who she is and where she comes from. She’s strong, hardworking, and determined, yet still carries that cultural pride and warmth that makes her easy to love. Then there’s Enrique, a billionaire who walked into her life thinking he wanted a business deal but ended up finding something much deeper. I loved how, instead of being intimidated by Carolina’s strength, he admired it and how she helped him reconnect with his roots and become a more grounded person.
I actually connected with this book even more than Book One. Carolina’s story hit close to home. I might not have lived her exact experiences, but I completely understood her struggle with old-school family expectations. Hispanic parents don’t play when it comes to dating. If you bring someone home to meet your dad, you might as well start picking wedding dates. That part made me laugh and nod in agreement because it’s so true.
What I loved most was how Carolina was portrayed. She was successful but humble. As well as being grounded in who she is and where she comes from. She’s strong, hardworking, and determined, yet still carries that cultural pride and warmth that makes her easy to love. Then there’s Enrique, a billionaire who walked into her life thinking he wanted a business deal but ended up finding something much deeper. I loved how, instead of being intimidated by Carolina’s strength, he admired it and how she helped him reconnect with his roots and become a more grounded person.
November 19, 2023
While I didn’t find the romance in Kiss Me, Mi Amor all that great (lack of chemistry, MCs that have no common ground, no real relationship development), I really was mostly invested in the FMC, Carolina, and her journey.
Carolina comes from a big, traditional Mexican American family. And I do mean traditional. The oldest has to date before anyone else can, you can’t spend the night with a man unless you’re married, a man has to ask for your father’s permission to date you, etc. Super traditional. And Carolina loves her family. She loves her parents and her sisters and their community. But she’s 1st gen and is having a hard time abiding by her father’s rules when she just wants freedom to live her own life.
And like….lots of reviews were like “families like that don’t exist anymore and I hated how misogynistic her community was”. But I get it. I got Carolina’s struggle. I was raised in a very similar Southern Baptist family and while my family wouldn’t have disowned me if I stayed out all night with a man, there was no babies before marriage or spending the night with a boyfriend and everything was about appearances and how the church and community would cast my decisions onto my parents.
I just felt for Carolina. I understood her struggle. I understood her “she’s such a wild child and disrespectful” when really…she has always put her family first and just wanted freedom. I was rooting for her so hard.
And I don’t think Albertson made her mom and dad these big bad villains. They love their kids. And their kids love them. They want what they think is the best for them. But they’re set in their ways and think they’re doing everything right because it’s how they were raised.
I just really enjoyed Carolina’s journey and wanted her to be happy so bad. And I loved that happiness didn’t mean turning her back on her family and traditions and culture. It just meant “hey I’d like my own house so I don’t have to live with my parents as an adult and can have my own space”.
Carolina comes from a big, traditional Mexican American family. And I do mean traditional. The oldest has to date before anyone else can, you can’t spend the night with a man unless you’re married, a man has to ask for your father’s permission to date you, etc. Super traditional. And Carolina loves her family. She loves her parents and her sisters and their community. But she’s 1st gen and is having a hard time abiding by her father’s rules when she just wants freedom to live her own life.
And like….lots of reviews were like “families like that don’t exist anymore and I hated how misogynistic her community was”. But I get it. I got Carolina’s struggle. I was raised in a very similar Southern Baptist family and while my family wouldn’t have disowned me if I stayed out all night with a man, there was no babies before marriage or spending the night with a boyfriend and everything was about appearances and how the church and community would cast my decisions onto my parents.
I just felt for Carolina. I understood her struggle. I understood her “she’s such a wild child and disrespectful” when really…she has always put her family first and just wanted freedom. I was rooting for her so hard.
And I don’t think Albertson made her mom and dad these big bad villains. They love their kids. And their kids love them. They want what they think is the best for them. But they’re set in their ways and think they’re doing everything right because it’s how they were raised.
I just really enjoyed Carolina’s journey and wanted her to be happy so bad. And I loved that happiness didn’t mean turning her back on her family and traditions and culture. It just meant “hey I’d like my own house so I don’t have to live with my parents as an adult and can have my own space”.
July 3, 2023
I was tempted to DNF this at about 25% but stuck it out to see if it would get better. It didn’t. There were so many problems with this story: the misogynistic, patriarchal Mexican Catholic family structure that is unsustainable and unrealistic in the 21st century, the ridiculously fast-paced romance between two people that feels like love-bombing on Enrique’s part and the fact that they have some serious compatibility issues (and potential dealbreakers like wanting kids), disbelief that Enrique doesn’t know the story of the nativity despite being a lapsed Catholic, the idea that he’d invest in his future cousin-in-law’s clothing business when he hasn’t even seen his designs, and so much more.
This would have been better as a novella and, with proper editing, it would have been. The author repeatedly mentioned Carolina’s virginity and the fact that she didn’t think she wanted to ever get married if it meant going from one controlling man to the next. I also found it skeevy that her father was in his early 30s when he married an 18 year old and then proceeded to force 10 kids on her. Total miss for me!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Berkley through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
This would have been better as a novella and, with proper editing, it would have been. The author repeatedly mentioned Carolina’s virginity and the fact that she didn’t think she wanted to ever get married if it meant going from one controlling man to the next. I also found it skeevy that her father was in his early 30s when he married an 18 year old and then proceeded to force 10 kids on her. Total miss for me!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Berkley through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
February 27, 2023
3.75 stars rounded up
November 15, 2025
it's a no from me, dawg
July 20, 2023
I so wanted to love Book 2 in the Love & Tacos series, with its luscious cover and nod to Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, but it fell flat for me. Writing that shows rather than tells, the ultra-strict rules of MC Carolina Flores' father, a too quick slide from fake relationship into love with the too arrogant Enrique Montez. Readers who adored Book 1 (Ramón and Julieta) will likely adore Book 2; alas, it was just not for me.
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March 14, 2024This book didn’t read like a romance to me. Yes there is a romance or two that are through lines but it read more like a coming of age story.
It was for me to see how these two individuals would find a way to make their relationship work. There were a few “instant” fixes that didn’t read true for me.
I found the secondary romance more interesting.
It was for me to see how these two individuals would find a way to make their relationship work. There were a few “instant” fixes that didn’t read true for me.
I found the secondary romance more interesting.
June 16, 2023
I'm loving this series of Shakespearean retellings, especially with this version of Taming of the Shrew. It was so cool learning about Las Posadas and Nochebuena traditions and discussing ethical farming. There were so many elements to the industry that I'd never considered before. Watching Carolina learn to stand up for herself and explore her own definitions of womanhood felt so good too. I enjoyed watching Enrique become a little less cocky, but honestly I can't wait for the next brother's book and its associated retelling. Maybe As You Like it?
*Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
*Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
November 25, 2024
The family dynamic stuff in here made me sad.
October 25, 2023
Similar to the first book, I enjoyed the plot of the book, but the romantic aspects of this fell flat. I probably won't actively seek out the next one unless the pairing sparks interest in me.
I received an ecopy of this book through Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this book through Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
September 20, 2023
Another great book from a LatinX author.
Carolina comes a first Gen. Mexican American where tradition is important. Enrique comes from a Mexican Family where tradition has been forgotten.
This is such a great book where both characters are working through both sides of generational trauma.
I think I loved their storyline more then the first book.
If you love:
🔺Fake dating
🔺She’s a Virgin
Carolina comes a first Gen. Mexican American where tradition is important. Enrique comes from a Mexican Family where tradition has been forgotten.
This is such a great book where both characters are working through both sides of generational trauma.
I think I loved their storyline more then the first book.
If you love:
🔺Fake dating
🔺She’s a Virgin
June 11, 2023
DNF at 45%
I loved the first book in this series, and was so excited to see the series continue. However this book took a serious turn for the worse. I couldn't stand the excessive push on religion and the old school ideology. A lot of this book seemed unrealistic. I mean Carolina is supposed to be 23 and somehow has all the money and experience to own a farm and business, yet stays in a room with her little sister and family. Also she is so young and inexperienced but is referred to as a spinster and no one thought she'd ever have a boyfriend! Not to mention they base this off the fact that she can't cook or "take care" of a man. I would have been fine if this was mentioned once or twice here or there, but it was pushed pretty excessively throughout each chapter, in case we somehow forgot. We got barely an info on Enrique the romantic hero. I felt like we knew more about his friend Tiburon than we did about him. Also this is set over Christmas time why is this not out in time for the holidays. It's June. I don't want to think about Christmas. Especially because the cover gives me summer vibes.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review. This book releases 7/4
I loved the first book in this series, and was so excited to see the series continue. However this book took a serious turn for the worse. I couldn't stand the excessive push on religion and the old school ideology. A lot of this book seemed unrealistic. I mean Carolina is supposed to be 23 and somehow has all the money and experience to own a farm and business, yet stays in a room with her little sister and family. Also she is so young and inexperienced but is referred to as a spinster and no one thought she'd ever have a boyfriend! Not to mention they base this off the fact that she can't cook or "take care" of a man. I would have been fine if this was mentioned once or twice here or there, but it was pushed pretty excessively throughout each chapter, in case we somehow forgot. We got barely an info on Enrique the romantic hero. I felt like we knew more about his friend Tiburon than we did about him. Also this is set over Christmas time why is this not out in time for the holidays. It's June. I don't want to think about Christmas. Especially because the cover gives me summer vibes.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review. This book releases 7/4
November 10, 2023
4.5 rounded up.
I so enjoyed this #ownvoices, dual POV, opposites attract, loose Taming of the Shrew retelling that sees two Mexican American California farmers from completely different worlds fake dating and falling in love over the holidays.
Carolina is from a very traditional and conservative Catholic Mexican family that expects their daughters to stay virgins until their wedding night. Meanwhile playboy Enrique is from a wealthy family and doesn't understand her upbringing at all.
When they find themselves spending the holidays together they realize they share a lot of core values but Carolina wants to embrace her independence and not jump from living her life under her father's rule to being a wife and mother right away.
I loved what a strong, independent woman Carolina was and the way family and culture played such a big part of this story. While this was technically the second book in a series I think it works as a standalone and really enjoyed the audio narration by Christophe Landa and Vanessa Vasquez.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
I so enjoyed this #ownvoices, dual POV, opposites attract, loose Taming of the Shrew retelling that sees two Mexican American California farmers from completely different worlds fake dating and falling in love over the holidays.
Carolina is from a very traditional and conservative Catholic Mexican family that expects their daughters to stay virgins until their wedding night. Meanwhile playboy Enrique is from a wealthy family and doesn't understand her upbringing at all.
When they find themselves spending the holidays together they realize they share a lot of core values but Carolina wants to embrace her independence and not jump from living her life under her father's rule to being a wife and mother right away.
I loved what a strong, independent woman Carolina was and the way family and culture played such a big part of this story. While this was technically the second book in a series I think it works as a standalone and really enjoyed the audio narration by Christophe Landa and Vanessa Vasquez.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 31, 2023
I really wanted to enjoy this more than I did. I found many parts frustrating and had trouble believing that our main character would leave her patriarchal family for a rich man who still felt very machismo in the way he took control, made decisions, and bought her fancy things. If I were her, I would’ve felt like he expected things. Also stories that make the woman’s virginity status central to the plot (while the man has a promiscuous past) turn me off and make me uncomfortable.
I do appreciate what the story had to say about farming sustainably and treating workers well.
I didn’t realize Ramón and Julieta is the first book in this series, and I have it on my Kindle, so I’ll likely read it at some point. Since I got some spoilers from their love story, I’m fairly certain it won’t have the same focus as this one.
I do appreciate what the story had to say about farming sustainably and treating workers well.
I didn’t realize Ramón and Julieta is the first book in this series, and I have it on my Kindle, so I’ll likely read it at some point. Since I got some spoilers from their love story, I’m fairly certain it won’t have the same focus as this one.
August 4, 2023
I loved the previous book in this series and was super excited to read this one. Kiss Me. Mi Amor is about the brother Enrique who wants to explore better framing options. This is how he comes into contact with Carolina.
Although Carolina owns her farm - her whole family still lives in the home, and her father runs things old school.
Although the concept of this book is right up my alley, I wasn't into the unnecessary slut shaming ad old-school and backward thoughts.
So although well written, it wasn't my cup of tea.
Although Carolina owns her farm - her whole family still lives in the home, and her father runs things old school.
Although the concept of this book is right up my alley, I wasn't into the unnecessary slut shaming ad old-school and backward thoughts.
So although well written, it wasn't my cup of tea.
December 17, 2023
This started with such promise, but quickly fizzled. I couldn’t get past the misogyny from the FMC’s family, the instalove and cringy sex scenes. But I was most bothered by how the FMC’s virginity was a main plot point and how after she decided to have sex, began to slut shame herself. I 1000% blame this on her parents because they put all of their daughters’ purity on a pedestal and then would call the FMC dirty and awful names for hanging out alone with the MMC.
Sadly, this was a miss for me.
Sadly, this was a miss for me.
August 5, 2023
Rounding up, I think. I seriously could not handle her parents, omg.
August 21, 2023
2.5 rounded to 3
It turns out I didn't quite enjoy reading Kiss Me, Mi Amor. It's one of those scenarios where the ingredients to a fabulous dish were there but the chef lacked in execution.
A bit of background... Kiss Me, Mi Amor is the second book in a companion series called Love and Tacos. You do not have to read them in order. They each follow separate romantic interests. This is my first book by Alana Albertson and also my first book in this series.
Kiss Me, Mi Amor is set up as a fake dating, forbidden romance story. Enrique is an heir to a Taco King Empire built by his family. He wants to make a change in the way his family conducts business by introducing more ethical approaches to farming and production. He hopes to learn more about ethical farming from Carolina, who grew up as a farm worker and now owns her own sustainable farm. The two quickly end up in a fake dating scenario and bada bing bada boom ... it's a romance book you can fill in the blanks.
Let's start off with the elements I enjoyed. Carolina is placed in a scenario many Latinas face where our parents value tradition and patriarchy, and we want more. Although Carolina has worked all her life, completed her studies and now owns her own farm, she has never had a boyfriend. Her father is traditional in every sense of the word. The culture and family dynamics resonated with me as I grew up in a similar family structure. I also enjoyed Enrique taking cues from Carolina. He challenges his own toxic masculinity at several points in time. It was refreshing.
However it felt like the story was written for white people. The author explains too much. There is little to no subtlety. The characters feel like cardboard cutouts rather than fully fleshed individuals.
It turns out I didn't quite enjoy reading Kiss Me, Mi Amor. It's one of those scenarios where the ingredients to a fabulous dish were there but the chef lacked in execution.
A bit of background... Kiss Me, Mi Amor is the second book in a companion series called Love and Tacos. You do not have to read them in order. They each follow separate romantic interests. This is my first book by Alana Albertson and also my first book in this series.
Kiss Me, Mi Amor is set up as a fake dating, forbidden romance story. Enrique is an heir to a Taco King Empire built by his family. He wants to make a change in the way his family conducts business by introducing more ethical approaches to farming and production. He hopes to learn more about ethical farming from Carolina, who grew up as a farm worker and now owns her own sustainable farm. The two quickly end up in a fake dating scenario and bada bing bada boom ... it's a romance book you can fill in the blanks.
Let's start off with the elements I enjoyed. Carolina is placed in a scenario many Latinas face where our parents value tradition and patriarchy, and we want more. Although Carolina has worked all her life, completed her studies and now owns her own farm, she has never had a boyfriend. Her father is traditional in every sense of the word. The culture and family dynamics resonated with me as I grew up in a similar family structure. I also enjoyed Enrique taking cues from Carolina. He challenges his own toxic masculinity at several points in time. It was refreshing.
However it felt like the story was written for white people. The author explains too much. There is little to no subtlety. The characters feel like cardboard cutouts rather than fully fleshed individuals.
September 22, 2023
After devouring the first book in this series and without even reading the synopsis I immediately picked up Kiss Me, Mi Amor. I loved being in this world of the Montez brothers, and Enrique was a character I really was excited to read about. From the first book I found him so interesting, and that definitely carried over to this one. I adored Carolina as the heroine, I love her dedication to her family and her faith, and I also loved that she was so determined to live the life she dreamed not just what was expected of her. Just like the first book in this series I adored how heavy in tradition, culture, family and love this was. I was not expecting there to be such a big religious plot (as Carolina came from a devout catholic family and Enrique did not), but enjoyed seeing how it all played out since the MC were so different. Again I can't speak for any of the representation in this book, I would definitely seek reviewers of the communities for more in depth reviews. While I loved so much about this one, I think what threw me off was how instalovey it was. I really loved our MC together, but it was hard for me to buy true love after such a short time. This one just like the last has left me wanting to continue in this world, but as of right now this is it. I'll be looking out to see if the last Montez brother gets a book.
July 11, 2023
As the middle child of a family that runs a hugely successful restaurant chain, Enrique wants to make his own mark on the business. After reading about self-made farmer Carolina Flores, Enrique wants to shadow her and learn about her ethical farming practices.
Carolina has worked hard to buy her family farm and give the employees safe working conditions and fair compensation; there is no way she’s going to partner with one of the fast-talking Montez brothers. However, when Enrique offers to help her out with some family issues, the pair realize they make a good team.
Overall, I enjoyed Kiss Me, Mi Amor, a modern day retelling of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Growing up in a strict, traditional Mexican household as the eldest of ten daughters, Carolina is expected to marry a strong Mexican Catholic man who will take over the family farm while she stays home cooking, cleaning, and raising a family. While Carolina wants none of that life for herself, her younger sister Blanca does, but she cannot date until Carolina has a boyfriend. When Enrique goes along with Carolina’s plan to play her boyfriend, her repressed frustration over her parents’ restrictive ways and traditions boils over into a huge family feud.
I loved the big family and learning more about traditional Mexican customs and farming. While the story is a romance, it’s also Carolina’s journey of self-discovery. We see her grow and change over the course of the story as she learns to break from the ingrained tradition that borders on abuse to standing on her own. On the other hand, I don’t feel I really got to know Enrique. We do see him learn more about farming and change his attitude about getting his own hands dirty with the hard work, but we are told about his emotional growth, which takes place prior to the story (possibly in the first book?). That said, I felt his character development is lacking. He plays it all zen and mentally balanced, but when Carolina needs space to be on her own, he makes it all about him, acting like a complete ass. He gives her space but never apologizes for his rush to push her into more.
In the end, Kiss Me, Mi Amor is an enjoyable read. It also has a stunning cover - probably my favorite of the year.
My Rating: B
Review copy provided by publisher/NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Carolina has worked hard to buy her family farm and give the employees safe working conditions and fair compensation; there is no way she’s going to partner with one of the fast-talking Montez brothers. However, when Enrique offers to help her out with some family issues, the pair realize they make a good team.
Overall, I enjoyed Kiss Me, Mi Amor, a modern day retelling of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Growing up in a strict, traditional Mexican household as the eldest of ten daughters, Carolina is expected to marry a strong Mexican Catholic man who will take over the family farm while she stays home cooking, cleaning, and raising a family. While Carolina wants none of that life for herself, her younger sister Blanca does, but she cannot date until Carolina has a boyfriend. When Enrique goes along with Carolina’s plan to play her boyfriend, her repressed frustration over her parents’ restrictive ways and traditions boils over into a huge family feud.
I loved the big family and learning more about traditional Mexican customs and farming. While the story is a romance, it’s also Carolina’s journey of self-discovery. We see her grow and change over the course of the story as she learns to break from the ingrained tradition that borders on abuse to standing on her own. On the other hand, I don’t feel I really got to know Enrique. We do see him learn more about farming and change his attitude about getting his own hands dirty with the hard work, but we are told about his emotional growth, which takes place prior to the story (possibly in the first book?). That said, I felt his character development is lacking. He plays it all zen and mentally balanced, but when Carolina needs space to be on her own, he makes it all about him, acting like a complete ass. He gives her space but never apologizes for his rush to push her into more.
In the end, Kiss Me, Mi Amor is an enjoyable read. It also has a stunning cover - probably my favorite of the year.
My Rating: B
Review copy provided by publisher/NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
June 18, 2023
Thank you so much for an advanced copy of this book! I really enjoyed it.
First off, I feel like I learned SO MUCH about Mexican culture and family dynamics in this story. The two main characters suffer GREATLY from their families' antics, and while some of it is designed to make you LOL, some of it also really showcases how family interference dynamics work in other cultures and backgrounds. The families were ultimately endearing, though, so I give them a pass for their antics! haha.
Second, I really think this story has a lot of heart. I enjoyed the slide into love by the main characters, and I also enjoyed the relationships with their family. Overall, this book has so many elements to love!
I thought the main characters were so fun, and I really enjoyed their story. I also finished this really wanting a taco! (f you've read this or the first book in the series, you will understand.) :)
Rating: 4⭐️
First off, I feel like I learned SO MUCH about Mexican culture and family dynamics in this story. The two main characters suffer GREATLY from their families' antics, and while some of it is designed to make you LOL, some of it also really showcases how family interference dynamics work in other cultures and backgrounds. The families were ultimately endearing, though, so I give them a pass for their antics! haha.
Second, I really think this story has a lot of heart. I enjoyed the slide into love by the main characters, and I also enjoyed the relationships with their family. Overall, this book has so many elements to love!
I thought the main characters were so fun, and I really enjoyed their story. I also finished this really wanting a taco! (f you've read this or the first book in the series, you will understand.) :)
Rating: 4⭐️
July 17, 2023
The second entry in the Love & Tacos series is inspired by The Taming of the Shrew, which is my favorite Shakespeare play!
Enrique is the heir to the family’s restaurant empire, and, when he begins to think about changing up the business’ food suppliers, he sets up a meeting with Carolina to discuss the ethical manner in which she runs her farm.
Carolina is the daughter of a strict Mexican family and has worked tirelessly to provide for her family, including purchasing the farm where they all currently live. Her father has a rule that her sister cannot date until she does, and all her family desires is for her to settle down and get married.
When Carolina says that Enrique is her boyfriend, they decide to keep up the ruse through the holidays. Sparks fly between them and Carolina must decide between pursuing the possibility of love or her dream of freedom from the rules and control of others.
I really enjoyed this book! I thought it was really well balanced and it covered a lot of territory - romance, subplots with both families, Mexican culture and holiday traditions, and farming.
I will definitely think about the farming industry differently going forward, and I’m thankful to live in an area full of small family farms where I have access to fresh food directly from the source!
Thank you to @berkleyromance for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
Enrique is the heir to the family’s restaurant empire, and, when he begins to think about changing up the business’ food suppliers, he sets up a meeting with Carolina to discuss the ethical manner in which she runs her farm.
Carolina is the daughter of a strict Mexican family and has worked tirelessly to provide for her family, including purchasing the farm where they all currently live. Her father has a rule that her sister cannot date until she does, and all her family desires is for her to settle down and get married.
When Carolina says that Enrique is her boyfriend, they decide to keep up the ruse through the holidays. Sparks fly between them and Carolina must decide between pursuing the possibility of love or her dream of freedom from the rules and control of others.
I really enjoyed this book! I thought it was really well balanced and it covered a lot of territory - romance, subplots with both families, Mexican culture and holiday traditions, and farming.
I will definitely think about the farming industry differently going forward, and I’m thankful to live in an area full of small family farms where I have access to fresh food directly from the source!
Thank you to @berkleyromance for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
November 18, 2025
A man that says “babe” is an instant ick. Hear me out, I fully understand it’s a term of endearment but the way and the speed at which Enrique said it was off putting. BUT other than that, a nice little read. I devoured it as quickly as I did Ramon & Julieta (liked their story better) and it was a surprise holiday/Christmas read. 🎄
As a Mexican-American woman who grew up in a strict Catholic home, representation in literature is important. Though my upbringing wasn’t as strict as Carolina’s and the frustration that followed with her journey of finding her identity and love with Enrique, the story at its core was still very much relevant. Family can be toxic, new things are scary and when you find a good, decent man you gotta jump on that before you lose him. lol.
As a Mexican-American woman who grew up in a strict Catholic home, representation in literature is important. Though my upbringing wasn’t as strict as Carolina’s and the frustration that followed with her journey of finding her identity and love with Enrique, the story at its core was still very much relevant. Family can be toxic, new things are scary and when you find a good, decent man you gotta jump on that before you lose him. lol.
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