Title: She Drives Me Crazy
Author: Kelly Quindlen
Publisher: Macmillan
Publication date: April 20, 2021
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Summary
After losing their first basketball game to her ex-girlfriend, Scottie is a bit distracted. So distracted that she gets into a minor accident with her arch nemesis: Irene. When their moms get involved, the two end up in a carpool to school while Irene gets her car fixed. A situation that neither Scottie or Irene are thrilled about, especially after an incident at Irene’s party last year.
As expected, their relationship doesn’t have the smoothest start. But when Scottie realizes that she can use the situation to get back at her ex-girlfriend, she makes a proposal to Irene. So, they start a fake-dating scheme to help them both get what they want. What they don’t expect is to actually develop feelings for each other.
Review: She Drives Me Crazy
Thanks to Macmillan and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy to review! As a lover of the enemies to lovers trope, I knew that this was going to be right up my alley. It’s the gay fake-dating scheme that everyone needs!
We start off running in this book, jumping right into Scottie and her girlfriend drama. Quindlen does an excellent job of pulling the reader into this fictional world without being too info-dumpy. Right from the start, Scottie is a likeable character, even if she seems to be caught up in her toxic ex-girlfriend. And is a bit oblivious.
The relationship between Irene and Scottie also felt nature, even if the two are incredibly snarky toward each other in the beginning. It’s great banter though, and you can tell there are sparks almost from the beginning. They also have incredible best friends, and Scottie has a great family. I love seeing a family who is totally accepting and willing to help Scottie through her drama.
The only thing I would have improved in this was the pacing. By the end, some of the pacing felt off, particularly with the competition for Student Athlete of the Year. I wanted the events to go together more seamlessly, but instead the end felt a little jumpy.
All in all, this is a great rom-com featuring two girls who weren’t meant to fall in love. With lots of great, diverse representation and a fantastic cover, this one should be on every teen shelf!
4/5 stars