Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth
CW: Classism, Poverty, Bullying, Underage Drinking, Alcohol Relapse, Cheating, Injury
4.5/5
This book is for fans of She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen, heist movie fanatics, certainly fans of Ciara Smyth's The Falling In Love Montage, and anyone up for a queer Irish rom-com. I absolutely loved this book, so bear with me as I get the stuff I wasn't in favor of out of the way. First, while the inner monologue of main character, Aideen, is hilarious and enthralling, it doesn't always translate well for the audiobook. There were moments where it was clear what was being quipped inside her head vs out loud and there were moments when it was indistinguishable. My only other problem was that the book seemed to toe the line of believing it isn't valid to be an angry feminist. However, I do think it came around in the end.
Now, I've told you this, why should you read it? Simple! It is a wonderful book you won't want to put down! Aideen is snarky, creative, impulsive, a big dreamer, and dealing with hard times at home. When she finds herself in a position to give her enemy, Meabh (pronounced: Meve) an injury, she accepts. Meabh is a perfectionist, an environmental activist, bossy, and afraid of letting her dad down. She's also running for class president and needs Aideen to push her down the stairs to buy her time. In exchange, Meabh will owe her one.
Now Kavi, he sees the whole thing, but he wants in. He's got a touch of FOMO, a large dose of hilarity, and a decent portion of sweetheart. He's a himbo, if you're familiar with the term. Kavi mistakenly believes that Aideen is used to doing things like this for people. So with a push from him, Aideen keeps doing favors. Along the way she accidentally forms herself a social circle of misfits, perfect for a heist, should one come along.
Not My Problem will leave you laughing and crying. Aideen and her friends have a lot on their plates as they deal with high school, bullying, the problems afflicting our planet, and complicated home lives. Get ready for Kavi's stories (especially one in Chapter 23), Aideens gym excuses, the favors, how much Aideen will do for her mom, and of course a cute enemies-to-lovers story. Enjoy!
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