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3.79 AVERAGE
3.79 AVERAGE
Thank you to NetGalley, Lizzy Dent, and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Drive Me Crazy is a really fun romance set in the world of F1 racing. I loved getting to see the ins and outs of a sport I know nothing about while also falling in love with these characters. Chloe and Matt are old friends who are reunited as Chloe is trying to prove to the world she can run a team while Matt is trying to make it back on top after a fall from grace. I loved seeing the character development of both Chloe and Matt as they grew into their confidence professionally and personally.
This book has a lot of excitement, emotional depth, and a little bit of spice. Overall, this is a great quick read!
Drive Me Crazy is a really fun romance set in the world of F1 racing. I loved getting to see the ins and outs of a sport I know nothing about while also falling in love with these characters. Chloe and Matt are old friends who are reunited as Chloe is trying to prove to the world she can run a team while Matt is trying to make it back on top after a fall from grace. I loved seeing the character development of both Chloe and Matt as they grew into their confidence professionally and personally.
This book has a lot of excitement, emotional depth, and a little bit of spice. Overall, this is a great quick read!
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
while I like the idea of the fmc being the boss in the dynamic I thought she could have been a bit more confident in herself. She definitely worked her way up and deserved where she was as the principal but she had shaky confidence. The romance between the mmc and fmc was pretty good though.
2⭐️ // ultimately left me feeling underwhelmed
Chloe has finally, after years of hard work, achieved her dream of becoming the principal for a F1 team. There’s only one problem—the team she’s now leading is the laughingstock of F1. But hey, turning this team around is the perfect way to show this male-dominated sport she’s the best, right? Only, on the same day she’s hired, the team owner blindsides her by announcing that Matt Warner is joining the team as their main driver. The same Matt Warner Chloe grew up with. The same Matt Warner she had more than a childhood crush on. The same Matt Warner who was F1’s rising star until a crash that nearly killed his best friend and stole his confidence. Oh, and the funds for this team are running low. If Chloe can’t turn things around this season, they’ll all be out of jobs during the next. No pressure, right?
First, thanks to NetGalley and Putnam Books for the chance to be an ARC reader for this book. I’ll admit, it’s a hard one to rate, but I’ve ultimately decided to give it a 2⭐️ rating as I enjoyed parts of it, but it overall fell flat.
Ultimately, I found this story hard to engage with. I kept with it because I liked the premise and I figured my struggle to connect might be because I know very little about F1 racing. But I eventually realized my lack of F1 knowledge shouldn’t have displaced me so much with the story because it’s ultimately a childhood friends-to-lovers romance about a woman in a male dominated field. I shouldn’t have to be an expert in the main character’s professional field to connect to that premise.
The reason I struggled to connect execution of the premise. It’s like Lizzy Dent knew where she started and where she wanted to go with the plot, but wasn’t sure how she wanted to get there so she wrote in several different ways that should have moved us in the direction of the ending before deciding on one without ever giving these other potential pathways a conclusion. Unfortunately, all this did was create a bunch of red herrings that distracted from the character development—which a story like this one relies heavily on.
For example, Chloe is our main female character. Her biggest struggle is that she’s a female in a male-dominated field. Which means her biggest plot points should have been centered around the men around her undermining her and her development should have been centered around demanding the respect she deserves. Now, she struggles with imposter syndrome, which is realistic for a woman in her situation. But she didn’t ultimately deal with the disrespect of the men around her, the men in her life who loved her did. That makes her a damsel figure, which completely undermines her character arch.
In fact, in one of the first conversations readers witness between Chloe and Matt, Matt points out if she doesn’t demand respect from the team, and especially this unnamed strategist who is nonchalantly ignoring her expertise, then she’s always going to have problems. And yet, she never deals with this unnamed strategist head-on. She just works around him by hiring Archie and Jasper. Which would be realistic in fixing this problem, if it weren’t for the fact this unnamed strategist is never brought up again. He’s supposedly still part of the team, but we never see his reaction to her hires or her decisions. So we get an unresolved plot point that aids in undermining Chloe’s character development.
Then there’s Matt. The plot points surrounding his development don’t undermine his growth so much as they just don’t provide growth. He claims repeatedly that guilt over causing the crash that almost killed his best friend is what’s keeping him from giving his all to the sport, but his journey of overcoming this guilt isn’t compelling and feels underwhelming, adding to the overall story’s struggle to keep readers engaged in the plot.
The dialogue and inner monologues of these characters is also at some points repetitive, which makes the pace feel like it’s dragging on.
While I don’t mind spice, I’m not a reader who reads for spice, so all I can tell you about the spice in this novel is that it’s there. I sometimes felt Matt was motivated more out of lust for Chloe and love for her, though.
There were some fun parts of this story. Barry was a fun side character. Matt’s jealously of Jack was interesting.
I wish I could have enjoyed this more than I did.
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
childhood friends who established themselves on the kart circuit are now in the big leagues. Matt is an established F1 driver recently off a major crash he hasnt been able to mentally recover from, and Chloe, his previous competitor and childhood best friend, is moving up from F3 to the first female team principal.
This is a great romance of old friends healing and finding each other. The author leans into the world of F1 and doesn’t let the sport fall the wayside. Because of this we have the tension of the race, the tension of having to build a new team, and of course the romance. All of this was incredibly well balanced.
I devoured this in a single day and had an excellent time. At first I was disappointed that Chloe was a principal vs a driver but I think it made for a very interested dynamic in the end. I also really appreciated that the easy shots for friction weren’t taken. This was really nice consistent growth story.
I wish we could have seen more of Chloe’s friend, she didn’t have much of a real presence or definition in the story, and parts of the story, especially early on were very “tell and not show” vs really showing us how our mains felt.
Overall a wonderful read and one I’ll definitely recommend to my fellow F1 romance readers.
This is a great romance of old friends healing and finding each other. The author leans into the world of F1 and doesn’t let the sport fall the wayside. Because of this we have the tension of the race, the tension of having to build a new team, and of course the romance. All of this was incredibly well balanced.
I devoured this in a single day and had an excellent time. At first I was disappointed that Chloe was a principal vs a driver but I think it made for a very interested dynamic in the end. I also really appreciated that the easy shots for friction weren’t taken. This was really nice consistent growth story.
I wish we could have seen more of Chloe’s friend, she didn’t have much of a real presence or definition in the story, and parts of the story, especially early on were very “tell and not show” vs really showing us how our mains felt.
Overall a wonderful read and one I’ll definitely recommend to my fellow F1 romance readers.
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
1st Read: ★★★★
Setting: 4 || Plot: 5 || Characters: 4.5 || Writing: 4 || Pacing: 5 || Enjoyment: 4.5
Release date: January 6, 2026
The way I DEVOURED this book in two days is crazy. It was so fun to read this after watching the Monaco Quali!
What I liked: the characters. Chloe was competent and good at her job, which was refreshing to see in an FMC. The pacing was very well done, and everything flowed smoothly. The characters showed substantial growth throughout the book, which I like to see. If you're an F1 fan or a sports-romance fan, you'll certainly enjoy this book. It wasn't too jargon-heavy, so even if you know nothing about F1, I think you'll be able to pick up on everything.
What I didn't like: I wish everything was fictionalized because it was a bit jarring to read about this fictional team, and then see current drivers' names like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris dropped, along with team names. And then also having a couple of characters say, "What in the name of Senna/Hamilton," pulled me out of the story, but only for a moment--I was able to dive straight back in. There was one discrepancy I noted, which was in talking about the Singapore GP. In the book, it talks about the "gravel" on the track, but Singapore is a street race, so there is no gravel.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Putnam Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Setting: 4 || Plot: 5 || Characters: 4.5 || Writing: 4 || Pacing: 5 || Enjoyment: 4.5
Release date: January 6, 2026
The way I DEVOURED this book in two days is crazy. It was so fun to read this after watching the Monaco Quali!
What I liked: the characters. Chloe was competent and good at her job, which was refreshing to see in an FMC. The pacing was very well done, and everything flowed smoothly. The characters showed substantial growth throughout the book, which I like to see. If you're an F1 fan or a sports-romance fan, you'll certainly enjoy this book. It wasn't too jargon-heavy, so even if you know nothing about F1, I think you'll be able to pick up on everything.
What I didn't like: I wish everything was fictionalized because it was a bit jarring to read about this fictional team, and then see current drivers' names like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris dropped, along with team names. And then also having a couple of characters say, "What in the name of Senna/Hamilton," pulled me out of the story, but only for a moment--I was able to dive straight back in. There was one discrepancy I noted, which was in talking about the Singapore GP. In the book, it talks about the "gravel" on the track, but Singapore is a street race, so there is no gravel.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Putnam Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Drive Me Crazy is a fast-paced and fun read, and what really stood out to me was the racing. The motorsport angle was exciting and well-written, adding depth and energy to the story that I honestly found more compelling than the romance.
The romantic relationship leaned more toward physical attraction than emotional connection. While there was clear chemistry, I would’ve liked to see more development in their bond beyond the surface level. That said, the ending wrapped everything up really nicely and made the journey feel satisfying overall.
If you’re looking for a romance with a thrilling, high-speed backdrop, this one might be worth the ride, especially if you're more into action than slow-burn love stories.
The romantic relationship leaned more toward physical attraction than emotional connection. While there was clear chemistry, I would’ve liked to see more development in their bond beyond the surface level. That said, the ending wrapped everything up really nicely and made the journey feel satisfying overall.
If you’re looking for a romance with a thrilling, high-speed backdrop, this one might be worth the ride, especially if you're more into action than slow-burn love stories.
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is my first F1 romance, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Lizzy Dent delivered a fast paced story that drove straight through my heart. Chloe Coleman is a woman at the top of her game. She just became principal to her racing team. Then in steps Matt Warner, childhood crush of Chloe, but currently an arrogant driver with a traumatic crash.
I loved the slow burn of the relationship, but it also had a head-over-heels feeling with the childhood crush aspect.
The go-kart scene sent me to my knees!
Thank you to Lizzy Dent, Putnam, and NetGalley for the ARC!
I loved the slow burn of the relationship, but it also had a head-over-heels feeling with the childhood crush aspect.
The go-kart scene sent me to my knees!
Thank you to Lizzy Dent, Putnam, and NetGalley for the ARC!
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
I received this book for free from G.P. Putnam's Sons, NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“A scorching, high-stakes romance set against the pulse-pounding backdrop of Formula 1.”
Drive Me Crazy is an irresistible blend of fierce ambition, unresolved history, and off-the-charts chemistry. Lizzy Dent delivers a swoon-worthy sports romance that perfectly balances emotional vulnerability with adrenaline-fueled tension.
Matt Warner, once a Formula 1 champion, is traded to a lower-ranked team without warning after a traumatic crash and media fallout that left his career—and confidence—shaken. Reeling from betrayal and guilt, he’s stunned to find that his new team is led by none other than Chloe Coleman, his childhood racing friend and now one of the few female team principals in F1. Their shared past through karting and F3 makes their reunion intense—and complicated.
Chloe had no idea Matt was being added to her team, and with only a few races left before the team might collapse under financial strain, the stakes couldn’t be higher. As they work to rebuild the team’s reputation and performance, old emotions and new desires collide. From charged moments in Mexico to secret nights at race tracks, Matt and Chloe push boundaries—professionally and personally.
What stands out is how Dent handles their growth. Matt’s emotional journey—from guilt and jealousy to healing and courage—makes him more than just a cocky driver. Chloe, strategic and resilient, carries the pressure of saving a legacy while guarding her heart. Their passion feels risky, raw, and real—whether it’s a late-night confession, a secret rendezvous, or a red-carpet reveal one year later.
The ending delivers everything a romance reader could want: a podium finish, personal redemption, and a quiet but meaningful happily-ever-after. And if you’re like me, you’ll finish this book hoping for Noah’s story next.
“A scorching, high-stakes romance set against the pulse-pounding backdrop of Formula 1.”
Drive Me Crazy is an irresistible blend of fierce ambition, unresolved history, and off-the-charts chemistry. Lizzy Dent delivers a swoon-worthy sports romance that perfectly balances emotional vulnerability with adrenaline-fueled tension.
Matt Warner, once a Formula 1 champion, is traded to a lower-ranked team without warning after a traumatic crash and media fallout that left his career—and confidence—shaken. Reeling from betrayal and guilt, he’s stunned to find that his new team is led by none other than Chloe Coleman, his childhood racing friend and now one of the few female team principals in F1. Their shared past through karting and F3 makes their reunion intense—and complicated.
Chloe had no idea Matt was being added to her team, and with only a few races left before the team might collapse under financial strain, the stakes couldn’t be higher. As they work to rebuild the team’s reputation and performance, old emotions and new desires collide. From charged moments in Mexico to secret nights at race tracks, Matt and Chloe push boundaries—professionally and personally.
What stands out is how Dent handles their growth. Matt’s emotional journey—from guilt and jealousy to healing and courage—makes him more than just a cocky driver. Chloe, strategic and resilient, carries the pressure of saving a legacy while guarding her heart. Their passion feels risky, raw, and real—whether it’s a late-night confession, a secret rendezvous, or a red-carpet reveal one year later.
The ending delivers everything a romance reader could want: a podium finish, personal redemption, and a quiet but meaningful happily-ever-after. And if you’re like me, you’ll finish this book hoping for Noah’s story next.