A review by millhousethecat
Offtrack by Esha Patel

emotional inspiring tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

I love F1. I’ve been watching since my oldest decided he wanted to be a race engineer when he was 12. (And he was for a few years!) So, I am excited by this trend of F1 sport romances.

Unfortunately, the first one I read…does not win any trophies.

The author wants to address the misogyny that’s rampant in sport. And while I applaud that, and acknowledge that *that* wasn’t the problem here, there was much else wrong.

On a positive note: I found the paddock interviews early on to be cute and fun. It felt most realistic - in the post race high, drivers are more likely to do silly things to each other and for the cameras.

I also enjoyed characters modeled after some of my favorite (and least favorite) current drivers.

But that’s about it.

There’s no chemistry between the two main characters. Both are likable but feel wooden when together. There’s just no spark. I didn’t buy the twist about their go karting days; they were in their late teens so there is no way they didn’t remember each other, especially given the significance of their successes then.

I have no idea why Miguel is in an arranged marriage with Jatziry; it’s never explained and feels so strange in 2022 that it’s impossible to believe.

F1 drivers are arrogant and strong willed and unforgiving. Diana’s personality does match with what a driver needs to do and be to win in an elite sport.

No way a new driver in a mid level team makes Q1 and podium in the first race of the season, much less a championship. Just…no.

——
Miguel is at the top of F1 and this is his year to win the championship. Diana is a young upstart from F2 hired possibly as a stunt, possibly for her talent. As the season progresses and Diana matches and then outshines Miguel, there’s a shake up in the paddock. But despite being promised to someone else, Miguel finds himself falling for Diana. An ultimatum will force these two to make difficult decisions and choose what will make them happiest.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to read and review. Available May 9, 2024.