A review by mikaylay
Not So Fast by Karen Booth

funny informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

F1 and podcasting come together in this romantic book by Karen Booth.

The characters are fascinating, authentic, and entertaining. The moods of the races and the peaceful areas for Mia's podcast recording provide the backdrop and rhythm for the novel, which has a moderate yet slightly rapid pace that will make you want to read it in one sitting. The book is well-written, entertaining, humorous, authentic, and informative. The author provides insights into how worry, stress, obstacles, and media coverage may affect drivers, their fans, and teams alike. The book's detailed descriptions of races, drivers, and F1 history demonstrate the author's extensive research prior to writing the novel. I appreciated the book's representation of mental health, from Mia's tendency to overthink everything to her and Xander's concerns about not being good enough at their respective occupations as F1 fan podcasters and drivers. The tale was well-crafted, yet it seemed rushed at moments. The relationship was beautiful and realistic, yet it felt insta-lovely at moments, which I believe may have been remedied if the book were longer. The only downside was that the points of view changed frequently and without notice, which made things a little confusing at times. I appreciated how the author included the diary prompts that the characters were filling out as the novel proceeded, as it provided a deeper understanding of the characters' thoughts and feelings. Not So Fast by Karen Booth is a short romance novel that intricately merges the realms of F1 drivers, their fans, and teams, showcasing the challenges, pressures, highs and lows, as well as the behind-the-scenes aspects of life on and off the track, potentially leaving readers exclaiming "not so fast" due to the book's short length and heartwarming conclusion.

In conclusion, Karen Booth's "Not So Fast" successfully intertwines the exhilarating world of Formula 1 racing with a heartfelt exploration of love and personal growth. The dynamic between Mia and Xander, set against the backdrop of high-speed races and the intricacies of podcasting, provides a refreshing perspective on romance in a competitive environment. While the narrative captures the essence of both the racing world and the emotional struggles of its characters, it also highlights important themes such as mental health and self-acceptance. Despite some pacing issues and occasional confusion due to shifting perspectives, the book leaves readers with a satisfying and poignant conclusion that resonates long after the final page. "Not So Fast" is a delightful read for anyone seeking a blend of adrenaline and romance, making it a worthy addition to the contemporary romance genre. 

Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and publisher for an E-ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.