This wasn't my favorite, I don't remember much about the characters outside of the two feuding families. I tend to enjoy books that are centered around cooking competitions, and I that was probably my favorite part of the book. I also liked the commentary on often overlooked cultural foods. The family rivalry was fun and dramatic. 

I found the romance most lacking for various reasons. The book starts off with Ellie getting broken up with by one of her mail coworkers. She's justifiably upset, but he continues to pop up throughout the book causing jealousy to ensue. It read very instant attraction + insta love, which I guess timing wise makes sense; I just didn't believe that these two would last.