As If on Cue by Marisa Kanter

As If on Cue

by Marisa Kanter

A pair of fierce foes are forced to work together to save the arts at their school in this swoony YA enemies-to-lovers romance that fans of Jenny Han and Morgan Matson are sure to adore.

Lifelong rivals Natalie and Reid have never been on the same team. So when their school’s art budget faces cutbacks, of course Natalie finds herself up against her nemesis once more. She’s fighting to direct the school’s first ever student-written play, but for her small production to get funding, the school’s award-winning band will have to lose it. Reid’s band. And he’s got no intention of letting the show go on.

But when their rivalry turns into an all-out prank war that goes too far, Natalie and Reid have to face the music, resulting in the worst compromise: writing and directing a musical. Together. At least if they deliver a sold-out show, the school board will reconsider next year’s band and theater budget. Everyone could win.

Except Natalie and Reid.

Because after spending their entire lives in competition, they have absolutely no idea how to be co-anything. And they certainly don’t know how to deal with the feelings that are inexplicably, weirdly, definitely developing between them…

Reviewed by alindstadtcorbeax on

5 of 5 stars

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Star Rating: —> 4.5 Stars rounded^

Oh my God I can NOT STOP SMILING! This was SO FREAKING CUTE, FUNNY, EMOTIONAL in all the best ways, had an amazing diverse cast with two Jewish main characters, LGBTQIA+ reps, anxiety rep... which were all represented SO WELL. So much to enjoy, and enjoy I did, majorly! I just loved this book. The second half had me in some serious tears SO many times because this—THE CHERRY ON THE DAMN TOP, GUYS—was SUCH A GOOD ENEMIES-TO-LOVERS YA CONTEMPORARY & I AM A GLORIFIED ROMANTIC SAP. Also the family & friend dynamics were just amazing. I freaking LOVED THIS BOOK!

...and who doesn't love a YA contemporary with a school play/ musical at its core?!? They're just always the BEST IMO. Ayyyy 100% recommend!

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 6 October, 2021: Finished reading
  • 6 October, 2021: Reviewed