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Amity Creek Romance #1
Drive You Crazy
Two bickering neighbors. One truck to share. Will this put them in the fast lane for catastrophe ... or love?
Bubbly newspaper editor Ashley Anderson is ecstatic to finally call this small town in Washington State 'home'—until she accidentally angers her newspaper's biggest advertisers, and they boycott. Her neighbor Justin has the family connections to get the town back on her side—but asking for help from the man she's nicknamed 'Dracula' is a last resort.
Living next door, rebel-with-a-cause teacher Justin Hastings can't escape Amity Creek fast enough. But when a good deed goes awry, it's his fault that Ashley's car is out of action, and they're forced to carpool until he can make things right.
Thrust into one another's daily lives, Ashley and Justin learn that little is black-and-white—not small town life, not family, and not each other. But there's a fork in the road, and it seems God has these two destined for separate paths. Can the road less travelled ever lead them back to love?
Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this must-read inspirational romance about the complexities—and the beauty—of true love in all its forms.
Fans of Emily Henry and Gilmore Girls will adore this swoon-worthy enemies-to-love romance about how faith, family and small towns are never as simple as they seem.
Bubbly newspaper editor Ashley Anderson is ecstatic to finally call this small town in Washington State 'home'—until she accidentally angers her newspaper's biggest advertisers, and they boycott. Her neighbor Justin has the family connections to get the town back on her side—but asking for help from the man she's nicknamed 'Dracula' is a last resort.
Living next door, rebel-with-a-cause teacher Justin Hastings can't escape Amity Creek fast enough. But when a good deed goes awry, it's his fault that Ashley's car is out of action, and they're forced to carpool until he can make things right.
Thrust into one another's daily lives, Ashley and Justin learn that little is black-and-white—not small town life, not family, and not each other. But there's a fork in the road, and it seems God has these two destined for separate paths. Can the road less travelled ever lead them back to love?
Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this must-read inspirational romance about the complexities—and the beauty—of true love in all its forms.
Fans of Emily Henry and Gilmore Girls will adore this swoon-worthy enemies-to-love romance about how faith, family and small towns are never as simple as they seem.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 29, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 7, 2024
I think I’m in a reading slump…
I don’t think my reading slump is from this book because don’t get me wrong. This book was so cute. I loved all the references to Gilmore girls, however, starting the book felt very slow and then it would get good and then it would feel slow again. Needless to say, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian romances that is clean and just super cute.
I don’t think my reading slump is from this book because don’t get me wrong. This book was so cute. I loved all the references to Gilmore girls, however, starting the book felt very slow and then it would get good and then it would feel slow again. Needless to say, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian romances that is clean and just super cute.
March 16, 2024
What do you get when you take one grumpy Aussie teacher (determined not to stay in his small American town) and his sunshiney newspaper editor neighbor (who just wants to belong), and add small town gossip, a large complicated family, business woes, delightful banter, and several mishaps that force these two ‘enemies’ into close proximity? Well, in the case of Drive You Crazy by Jessica Kate, you get a fun and swoony read with plenty of depth, too! I adored watching Justin & Ashley make the jump from quasi-enemies (disgruntled acquaintances at the least) to begrudging friends and then on to actually enjoying each other’s company and falling in love. Their banter is spot on and left me grinning from ear to ear on multiple occasions, and once the kissing gets started – whew!!! Of course their road to happily-ever-after isn’t that easy so buckle up a little but their story is full of such joy, laughter and swooniness amidst the handful of tear-jerker moments.
One of the things that’s responsible for most of the emotion in this book – whether it be laughter or frustration or swooning or tears – is that at first glance Ashley and Justin could not be any more different from each other. Justin prefers peace and quiet, baking is his love language, and he can’t wait to leave Amity Creek & head back to Australia. Ashley loves to talk, keeps show tunes (at top volume) & Gilmore Girls on repeat and a tree with sentimental attachment in her bathtub, and she desperately wants to put down roots in Amity Creek. In fact, other than their mutual love for across-the-street neighbor Bee, they don’t seem to have anything in common. Yet – and here’s the beauty of Jessica Kate’s winsome narrative – once we start digging into their layers and heart-wounds, we find that maybe they aren’t quite so different after all. Not where it counts. I really appreciated how the author walks them through their respective faith journeys, grappling with their own dysfunctional families in the process and coming to understand the healing power of both forgiveness and the Heavenly Father’s perfect love. These were such touching scenes, and one of my fave parts of the story.
Bottom Line: If you love grumpy-sunshine romances with a side of ‘enemies-to-more’, Gilmore Girls, faith, and great banter, then you absolutely need to read Drive You Crazy by Jessica Kate! Justin and Ashley are both layered characters who made me smile just about any time they shared a scene, and if I wasn’t grinning like a fool (or shedding a few tears) I was swooning over their chemistry. I loved each of them individually too but they are so delightful together. Such a fun and meaningful story – and I loved the epilogue!!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
One of the things that’s responsible for most of the emotion in this book – whether it be laughter or frustration or swooning or tears – is that at first glance Ashley and Justin could not be any more different from each other. Justin prefers peace and quiet, baking is his love language, and he can’t wait to leave Amity Creek & head back to Australia. Ashley loves to talk, keeps show tunes (at top volume) & Gilmore Girls on repeat and a tree with sentimental attachment in her bathtub, and she desperately wants to put down roots in Amity Creek. In fact, other than their mutual love for across-the-street neighbor Bee, they don’t seem to have anything in common. Yet – and here’s the beauty of Jessica Kate’s winsome narrative – once we start digging into their layers and heart-wounds, we find that maybe they aren’t quite so different after all. Not where it counts. I really appreciated how the author walks them through their respective faith journeys, grappling with their own dysfunctional families in the process and coming to understand the healing power of both forgiveness and the Heavenly Father’s perfect love. These were such touching scenes, and one of my fave parts of the story.
Bottom Line: If you love grumpy-sunshine romances with a side of ‘enemies-to-more’, Gilmore Girls, faith, and great banter, then you absolutely need to read Drive You Crazy by Jessica Kate! Justin and Ashley are both layered characters who made me smile just about any time they shared a scene, and if I wasn’t grinning like a fool (or shedding a few tears) I was swooning over their chemistry. I loved each of them individually too but they are so delightful together. Such a fun and meaningful story – and I loved the epilogue!!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 13, 2024
LOVED this book SO much. such a good story and such good romance and such good characters. like i wanted to cry when it was over. i didn’t want it to end. the characters had so much depth and the way that God and church were weaved into the story was rlly great. ngl, the MMC, Justin, is like the fictional male version of me lol
edit: dang just looked at the dates and i ate this book
edit: dang just looked at the dates and i ate this book
March 24, 2024
For GG Fans!
I loved this small-town romance full of Gilmore Girls references. It tackles the oh-so-complicated nature of families big and small and of course, it’s a great enemies to loves clean romance.
I loved this small-town romance full of Gilmore Girls references. It tackles the oh-so-complicated nature of families big and small and of course, it’s a great enemies to loves clean romance.
February 22, 2024
I enjoyed reading Drive You Crazy, an enemies to love romcom set in a fictional Washington small town. Ashley is struggling to fit in and find her place in the world. From a distance, Amity Creek looks like a charming small town where Ashley can start over after her mom’s passing and put down roots.
Appearances can be deceptive, and the backlash Ashley receives for buying the town newspaper, and daring to switch the format to online in an attempt to make it profitable, is horrible. The Hastings’ family, and their matriarch, rule the town with an iron fist.
Ashley bought the house next door to Justin, and his initial impressions of her aren’t great. She’s a journalist who’s nosy and noisy. He dislikes her loud conversations that he can’t help overhearing and her loud musical theatre soundtracks that aren’t his jam. Ashley thinks Justin is grumpy and she tries to avoid him.
Justin regrets temporarily moving back to Amity Creek. His parents’ marriage is in tatters and his mother is now living in Australia. Next year, when Justin’s substitute teaching contract is over, he’s leaving behind the town that’s ruled by his domineering father and paternal grandmother.
When a neighborhood tree lopping activity goes pear-shaped, Justin and Ashley are stuck spending a whole lot of time together. They start to see beyond external appearances and question their initial assumptions about each other.
Justin is adorable and his love language is baking to-die-for cakes. Ashley’s love language is conversation, and Justin gets to see the real Ashley who’s warm, caring, and struggling with abandonment issues.
Their sweet romance has many LOL moments as they negotiate difficult family relationships and move from enemies to friends to more-than-friends. I recommend Drive You Crazy to contemporary romance readers who like small town romcoms with depth that include fish out of water and ‘I hate you’ romance tropes with a relevant faith element in the story.
Many thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
Appearances can be deceptive, and the backlash Ashley receives for buying the town newspaper, and daring to switch the format to online in an attempt to make it profitable, is horrible. The Hastings’ family, and their matriarch, rule the town with an iron fist.
Ashley bought the house next door to Justin, and his initial impressions of her aren’t great. She’s a journalist who’s nosy and noisy. He dislikes her loud conversations that he can’t help overhearing and her loud musical theatre soundtracks that aren’t his jam. Ashley thinks Justin is grumpy and she tries to avoid him.
Justin regrets temporarily moving back to Amity Creek. His parents’ marriage is in tatters and his mother is now living in Australia. Next year, when Justin’s substitute teaching contract is over, he’s leaving behind the town that’s ruled by his domineering father and paternal grandmother.
When a neighborhood tree lopping activity goes pear-shaped, Justin and Ashley are stuck spending a whole lot of time together. They start to see beyond external appearances and question their initial assumptions about each other.
Justin is adorable and his love language is baking to-die-for cakes. Ashley’s love language is conversation, and Justin gets to see the real Ashley who’s warm, caring, and struggling with abandonment issues.
Their sweet romance has many LOL moments as they negotiate difficult family relationships and move from enemies to friends to more-than-friends. I recommend Drive You Crazy to contemporary romance readers who like small town romcoms with depth that include fish out of water and ‘I hate you’ romance tropes with a relevant faith element in the story.
Many thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.
February 29, 2024
First viewed here: https://belovedgraceful-carissasbooks...
Title: Drive You Crazy
Author: Jessica Kate
Ch: 52 plus epilogue
Pg: 364
Series: Amity Creek Romance book 1
Genre: Rom Com
Rating: 4.5 stars
Publisher: McWhirter & Spencer Publishing
I have to say I was hooked with the first line of Drive you Crazy by Jessica Kate. Because it pretty summed up real life in small towns. Ashley was as easy heroine to love and relate too. I loved how she remembered her mom with showtimes. I’m the same way when I’m missing my mom expect its classic rock and cheesy 80s movies. And reading Ashley’s point of view makes me thankful for my dad.
I love the fact that this one was grumpy/sunshine which has always been my favorite troupe. Not to mention the banter between Justin and Ashley being on point. I always know these books are going to not only make me laugh out loud but are going to be faith filled. And I mean what’s not to love about an Aussie hero.
I received a copy of this book from the author I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Title: Drive You Crazy
Author: Jessica Kate
Ch: 52 plus epilogue
Pg: 364
Series: Amity Creek Romance book 1
Genre: Rom Com
Rating: 4.5 stars
Publisher: McWhirter & Spencer Publishing
I have to say I was hooked with the first line of Drive you Crazy by Jessica Kate. Because it pretty summed up real life in small towns. Ashley was as easy heroine to love and relate too. I loved how she remembered her mom with showtimes. I’m the same way when I’m missing my mom expect its classic rock and cheesy 80s movies. And reading Ashley’s point of view makes me thankful for my dad.
I love the fact that this one was grumpy/sunshine which has always been my favorite troupe. Not to mention the banter between Justin and Ashley being on point. I always know these books are going to not only make me laugh out loud but are going to be faith filled. And I mean what’s not to love about an Aussie hero.
I received a copy of this book from the author I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 26, 2024
The movie Leap Year meets Gilmore Girls in this cute grumpy and sunshine/forced proximity/enemies-to-friends-to-more, small-town set novel.
Justin is an Australian living in the USA, bringing a fun Aussie-feel to the book (I need to try an Australian coffee now). Admittedly, I had a hard time picturing this grumpy-but-sweet guy as Loki (think Marvel) look-a-like. I suppose it served his grumpy-persona. Ashley is the new editor in town, Justin’s new neighbor, supper talkative and rarely grumpy. Hellooo sunshine! :)
Drive You Crazy has faith, redemption, heaps of family drama, laughs, and stubborn characters that will have you giggling and sometimes face-palming yourself. And reaching for as many baked goods as you can get your hands on.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Justin is an Australian living in the USA, bringing a fun Aussie-feel to the book (I need to try an Australian coffee now). Admittedly, I had a hard time picturing this grumpy-but-sweet guy as Loki (think Marvel) look-a-like. I suppose it served his grumpy-persona. Ashley is the new editor in town, Justin’s new neighbor, supper talkative and rarely grumpy. Hellooo sunshine! :)
Drive You Crazy has faith, redemption, heaps of family drama, laughs, and stubborn characters that will have you giggling and sometimes face-palming yourself. And reaching for as many baked goods as you can get your hands on.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
April 11, 2024
it was aight, kinda boring but i still liked how clean it was and the overall story.
March 20, 2024
Drive You Crazy was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 and Jessica Kate did not disappoint! 😍😍😍😍
Her writing always hits me right where I need it to. Whether it’s with faith, growing personally, or seeing things differently; I always walk away with a weight lifted that I didn’t even know needed to be lifted. 🥰
I loved all the characters and want to live inside the book with them in Amity Creek! I loved the banter, the romance, the faith, and community! I laughed out loud multiple times and also swiped away a tear or two. Drive You Crazy is yet another (no surprise there) highly recommended read! 💕
Her writing always hits me right where I need it to. Whether it’s with faith, growing personally, or seeing things differently; I always walk away with a weight lifted that I didn’t even know needed to be lifted. 🥰
I loved all the characters and want to live inside the book with them in Amity Creek! I loved the banter, the romance, the faith, and community! I laughed out loud multiple times and also swiped away a tear or two. Drive You Crazy is yet another (no surprise there) highly recommended read! 💕
February 8, 2024
This was a fun read, but there were a few too many things that were off for me to truly enjoy it. First, some of the surface-level conflicts seemed to be put in because the writer wanted to make a political/social statement about said stance, not because it was actually an important part of who the character was. The things added on-page conflict in a few scenes, but came across as convenient props rather than the strong convictions they are in real life.
Second, the ending makes sense and is great…except not in the larger context of the storyline. The FMC’s decision to rely on God for her value is great, but it doesn’t make sense for her because there’s not really any setup of her faith in the rest of the book, besides going to church and the occasional “Jesus help me.” To go from that to, “my worth is in God so I’m good” is too large of a leap to be believable for me.
Third, while the MMC does acknowledge that he is part of the issue with his family, they remain the villains of the story, solely because he sees most things opposite of the way they do. He makes more of an effort at the end, which is good, but to me it’s shown in a light that makes him the suffering saint and them the uncaring villains.
Overall, though the ending theme is good and there are multiple funny moments, this book left me with a bad taste. There are good parts, but too many contradictory parts as well for me to recommend it.
I received an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Second, the ending makes sense and is great…except not in the larger context of the storyline. The FMC’s decision to rely on God for her value is great, but it doesn’t make sense for her because there’s not really any setup of her faith in the rest of the book, besides going to church and the occasional “Jesus help me.” To go from that to, “my worth is in God so I’m good” is too large of a leap to be believable for me.
Third, while the MMC does acknowledge that he is part of the issue with his family, they remain the villains of the story, solely because he sees most things opposite of the way they do. He makes more of an effort at the end, which is good, but to me it’s shown in a light that makes him the suffering saint and them the uncaring villains.
Overall, though the ending theme is good and there are multiple funny moments, this book left me with a bad taste. There are good parts, but too many contradictory parts as well for me to recommend it.
I received an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 9, 2024
It's great to have another Jessica Kate story out in the wild. It's been a few years now. Jessica has a fresh easy going writing style and is happy to explore important matters for Christian readers. In this story, Jessica grapples with identity and belovedness in her two leads: Ashley and Justin.
It's fascinating that Jessica uses an American small town as backdrop, I'm presuming because most of her readers are American. However, Justin Hastings is an Aussie, who has lived a lot of his life in America as a result of his father's strong family ties. He, being the eldest son (Eric, Justin's dad) has responsibility for managing much of the family's business interests in Amity Creek.
Ashley and Justin are next door neighbours who initially don't hit it off. Neither are that interesting when we first meet them, however, as we gradually get to know them better we see their individual strengths and weaknesses. Further, they're thrown together due to a humorous episode of a tree falling on a parked car, and we see their chemistry as well as the way each brings out the best in the other.
I liked them both, perhaps Justin more, because his story arc felt a little more authentic for me. Ashley's felt a little forced and I wondered if having a girlfriend in the story might have assisted in her story arc.
I enjoy the alternate POV device in a romcom story as it helps us see into both of the leads in a more intimate manner. In this story, I struggled a little because I felt both POVs sounded a lot a like and there were many times I wondered whose mind I was in because of their similarities. Yes, they were distinct characters with separate interests, speech and characteristics but the voice we read for them both was very similar.
The story follows a traditional romance novel arc and some of the most powerful writing is towards the end where we see the growth in both Ashley and Justin which I appreciated.
Overall, it is a fun, small town romance with good leads and an important message that many readers will appreciate and reflect upon.
It's fascinating that Jessica uses an American small town as backdrop, I'm presuming because most of her readers are American. However, Justin Hastings is an Aussie, who has lived a lot of his life in America as a result of his father's strong family ties. He, being the eldest son (Eric, Justin's dad) has responsibility for managing much of the family's business interests in Amity Creek.
Ashley and Justin are next door neighbours who initially don't hit it off. Neither are that interesting when we first meet them, however, as we gradually get to know them better we see their individual strengths and weaknesses. Further, they're thrown together due to a humorous episode of a tree falling on a parked car, and we see their chemistry as well as the way each brings out the best in the other.
I liked them both, perhaps Justin more, because his story arc felt a little more authentic for me. Ashley's felt a little forced and I wondered if having a girlfriend in the story might have assisted in her story arc.
I enjoy the alternate POV device in a romcom story as it helps us see into both of the leads in a more intimate manner. In this story, I struggled a little because I felt both POVs sounded a lot a like and there were many times I wondered whose mind I was in because of their similarities. Yes, they were distinct characters with separate interests, speech and characteristics but the voice we read for them both was very similar.
The story follows a traditional romance novel arc and some of the most powerful writing is towards the end where we see the growth in both Ashley and Justin which I appreciated.
Overall, it is a fun, small town romance with good leads and an important message that many readers will appreciate and reflect upon.
April 10, 2024
Drive You Crazy was beautiful!! So heartfelt, with raw truth, laugh-out-loud comedy, and swoony romance that I kept picking it up whenever I could! I've been a fan of Jessica Kate ever since I read one of her short stories, and to get a (whole) book by her after so long has been worth the wait. Justin and Ashley's story was fun, I loved their slow-burn romance, and the forced proximity via the carpool situation. They're such opposites, but I loved every minute of their grumpy/sunshine story, and how slowly but surely fell for the other. I mean, an Aussie hero who bakes and helps others, and a sweet and determined heroine who sees the best in everyone? So. Hooked!
There are plenty of small-town happenings and meddling, but it's all part of the charm ;)lol, not really, There are good and bad moments, especially when unsolved family issues are going around and half the town is related to one of the MCs, but I loved the honestly imperfect portrayal of it. Speaking of family, I liked the journey that it implied for both Justin and Ashley and how much growth happened throughout the book (with the story ultimately pointing to the only One, the Author of all healing and hope. I loved Bee's role in this.) I could relate to one of the MCs specifically, and that's why I especially appreciate these reminders and their example on the road to healing and taking action.
Seriously, this book has it all: swoony romance, Christian faith, and so much humor I have hundreds of highlights. I recommend this one and anything written by this author (she's that good!) 😊 I can't wait for whatever's next from her! ~ 5 stars!
There are plenty of small-town happenings and meddling, but it's all part of the charm ;)
Seriously, this book has it all: swoony romance, Christian faith, and so much humor I have hundreds of highlights. I recommend this one and anything written by this author (she's that good!) 😊 I can't wait for whatever's next from her! ~ 5 stars!
October 7, 2024
Fresh, fun, feisty.
Jessica Kate's humorous and engaging writing style is at its best in romantic comedy 'Drive You Crazy'. The story threads meaningful themes into a complex, tightknit community held in check by the Hastings mafia - well, that's how it feels to young journalist, Ashley Andersen, when the Hastings matriarch immediately moves to destroy her small town dreams and hope of bringing a new vibe to the local town newspaper with an online delivery platform. And then there is her Australian neighbour, Justin Hastings, aka Dracula with a non-existent sense of humour, who is hostile, caustic and clearly at odds with the Hastings clan he initially claims is "distantly related". Yeah, right.
After a brilliantly delivered set-up, I did find the seven month jump a bit of a leap, but Jessica Kate swiftly picks up the pace where she left off and hurtles towards a series of unfortunate events that force the pair to carpool in Justin's pride and joy ute, during which time they discover first appearances aren't always what they seem and the law of natural attraction seems to be working overtime between them.
As always, the pair encounter mounting obstacles to their fledgling relationship, the least of which is coming to not loathe each other. But the underpinning themes have substance and Jessica Kate digs into these with the right balance of character vulnerability and self-preservation, drawing out insecurities founded in rejection and deep family wounds. Oh, and there's that knack she has of writing swoon-worthy scenes without it coming off as tacky.
An enjoyable read.
Jessica Kate's humorous and engaging writing style is at its best in romantic comedy 'Drive You Crazy'. The story threads meaningful themes into a complex, tightknit community held in check by the Hastings mafia - well, that's how it feels to young journalist, Ashley Andersen, when the Hastings matriarch immediately moves to destroy her small town dreams and hope of bringing a new vibe to the local town newspaper with an online delivery platform. And then there is her Australian neighbour, Justin Hastings, aka Dracula with a non-existent sense of humour, who is hostile, caustic and clearly at odds with the Hastings clan he initially claims is "distantly related". Yeah, right.
After a brilliantly delivered set-up, I did find the seven month jump a bit of a leap, but Jessica Kate swiftly picks up the pace where she left off and hurtles towards a series of unfortunate events that force the pair to carpool in Justin's pride and joy ute, during which time they discover first appearances aren't always what they seem and the law of natural attraction seems to be working overtime between them.
As always, the pair encounter mounting obstacles to their fledgling relationship, the least of which is coming to not loathe each other. But the underpinning themes have substance and Jessica Kate digs into these with the right balance of character vulnerability and self-preservation, drawing out insecurities founded in rejection and deep family wounds. Oh, and there's that knack she has of writing swoon-worthy scenes without it coming off as tacky.
An enjoyable read.
July 13, 2024
Oh my Lord!!! I am still in LOVE with this book!! This is my 3rd time reading this one by Jessica Kate and I am still in love with this story, that has now become a comfort read for me…. I just finished this for the 3rd time today and realized I never gave this one a rating and so I decided, why not now lol 😂… I absolutely LOVE the romance and plot in this one, how Jessica is unafraid to tackle important topics like family rifts/relationships, grief (death of a loved one), and bringing God into it all by bringing it full circle…. I love that this one and “A girls guide to the Outback” were both enemies to lovers (I could argue that for “love and other mistakes” but I feel that to be a second chance romance with an enemies to lovers twist) and I love that trope sooooo much!! Ashley and Justin both were so relatable, but especially Ashley because of dealing with her “dad” and insecurities with that… I really felt like the character of Ashley was literally me on a page if I were a 31 year old women and it felt so good to be seen and to walk through those same issues with her… I LOVED Bee (Justin’s aunt and Justin and Ashley loving neighbor) and the advice she gave throughout the book and how she was such an example to the two of them throughout the whole thing… love the romance between Ashley and Justin and literally can NEVER get sick of it, they are just adorable 😊… my only thing was that I was kinda iffy with the way the Hastingses were portrayed because like yeah they were meant to have conflict with Justin, but sometimes someone would say something at the dinner table or to Justin himself that just did not seem realistic to a family but at the same time they are meant to be gossipy and have their flaws so I get why they were the way they were it was just… odd… that’s the only way I could put it… I also think, as a person who’s never watched “Gilmore Girls” until recently (watching cuz of the book) it was hard to follow her references to the show at some points, so if you’ve never seen it, it doesn’t take away from the book, but you won’t understand the humor/ references….. thought it was cute tho…overall tho I would give this one a 4.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Great job writing a romance for the Christian girlies that builds faith, is inspiring, got me crying and laughing and relating, and wasn’t filled with all the spice and inappropriateness that is in other books…. Thank you ☺️
February 23, 2024
4.5☆ romcom with all the feels (and frustrations!)
I enjoyed reading Ashley and Justin's enemies-to-lovers romance, and became swept up in the story. All the nods to my homeland of Australia were like bursts of sunshine on a winters day. (And as a Gilmore Girls watcher, I also loved understanding the in-jokes about the show.)
The prickly way the leads interacted as neighbours was funny to read, even if some of the things that happened were petty. I appreciated getting those glimpses into their minds otherwise I'd have liked them far less.
The country town vibes of Amity Creek were wonderful, and the endearing (and downright annoying) townsfolk kept me amused or ready to punch someone in the face.
I did struggle with some of those moments when it was Justin vs the Hastings. So many times I wanted to slap different people at the backs of their heads, especially Justin's dad. I also struggled with the depths Ashley plummeted later in the story (won't go into detail for spoilers sake). Yes, I know her anguish was real, and I'm glad she reached out for some support, but I guess it's just a good reminder that none of us are perfect and we all need Christ.
Loved the banter between the leads, their friends and Justin's students. Some funny moments in between the serious.
A great read!
NB I received an ARC of this novel.
I enjoyed reading Ashley and Justin's enemies-to-lovers romance, and became swept up in the story. All the nods to my homeland of Australia were like bursts of sunshine on a winters day. (And as a Gilmore Girls watcher, I also loved understanding the in-jokes about the show.)
The prickly way the leads interacted as neighbours was funny to read, even if some of the things that happened were petty. I appreciated getting those glimpses into their minds otherwise I'd have liked them far less.
The country town vibes of Amity Creek were wonderful, and the endearing (and downright annoying) townsfolk kept me amused or ready to punch someone in the face.
I did struggle with some of those moments when it was Justin vs the Hastings. So many times I wanted to slap different people at the backs of their heads, especially Justin's dad. I also struggled with the depths Ashley plummeted later in the story (won't go into detail for spoilers sake). Yes, I know her anguish was real, and I'm glad she reached out for some support, but I guess it's just a good reminder that none of us are perfect and we all need Christ.
Loved the banter between the leads, their friends and Justin's students. Some funny moments in between the serious.
A great read!
NB I received an ARC of this novel.
February 26, 2024
Ever since Jessica's debut several years ago she's become an auto-buy author for me. Her stories just immediately grab you and are filled with such heart and humor they are irresistible to read. Its been at least a couple years since her last book so I've been waiting, somewhat impatiently, for her newest one and I was not disappointed!
I loved everything about this book, the setting, the characters, the story! Ashley and Justin are both complex characters who are each dealing with their own family issues in different ways. The premise for how these two are forced to work together was excellent, and I especially loved the differences between Justin being an Australian and Ashley an American. Their chemistry is spot on too!
The author did a great job in dealing with very complex issues each character was dealing with, without making it seemed forced or having it all be perfect in the end.
This book is definitely going on the keeper shelf! I highly recommend for those who love Gilmore Girls, Rom-Coms and romance with just a little more depth. I think fans of Bethany Turner, Becca Kinzer and Courtney Walsh would adore this book.
I received a free advanced copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was under no compulsion for that review to be favorable. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are completely my own.
I loved everything about this book, the setting, the characters, the story! Ashley and Justin are both complex characters who are each dealing with their own family issues in different ways. The premise for how these two are forced to work together was excellent, and I especially loved the differences between Justin being an Australian and Ashley an American. Their chemistry is spot on too!
The author did a great job in dealing with very complex issues each character was dealing with, without making it seemed forced or having it all be perfect in the end.
This book is definitely going on the keeper shelf! I highly recommend for those who love Gilmore Girls, Rom-Coms and romance with just a little more depth. I think fans of Bethany Turner, Becca Kinzer and Courtney Walsh would adore this book.
I received a free advanced copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was under no compulsion for that review to be favorable. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are completely my own.
March 1, 2024
HAPPY RELEASE DAY to @jessicakatewriting ‘s newest book Drive You Crazy! This was one of my favorite books I read last year as an ARC and I’m so excited it’s finally out for everyone to enjoy. When Ashley Anderson moves to the small town of Amity Creek to revitalize their newspaper, she continually butts heads with her neighbor and teacher Justin Hastings. This was SUCH a good enemies to friends to lovers story. I laughed out loud multiple times, and what really stuck out to me was how REAL these characters felt. I liked that Ashley and Justin were around 30 and single, and that they spent so much of the book being friends first instead of insta-dating. The book was just the right amount of funny to be realistic and not too cheesy. I loved that in the end Ashley found her highest sense of worth in God’s love. If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, Australian characters, and small town charm, this book is for you!
*I received a copy this book from the author and was not required to give a review. All opinions expressed above are my honest opinions.
*I received a copy this book from the author and was not required to give a review. All opinions expressed above are my honest opinions.
March 9, 2024
What a fun small town romcom! I love Jessica Kate’s writing and I’ve been eagerly anticipating this novel!
Justin and Ashley are both great characters. I loved watching them grow as individuals and it was a joy to see their romance bloom.
Amity Creek is a lovely setting with a host of delightfully quirky characters, and as a small town girl myself I really appreciated that the author showed the beautiful aspects of small town life, and that she also showed the imperfections and messiness that inevitably exist in small towns despite what Hallmark would have us believe!
I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful story and cannot wait for this author’s next book!
I highlighted so many favorite passages, and I absolutely loved the ending!
If you are looking for a heartwarming small town romcom with depth and a great faith story be sure to check out Drive You Crazy
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author and publisher!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
Justin and Ashley are both great characters. I loved watching them grow as individuals and it was a joy to see their romance bloom.
Amity Creek is a lovely setting with a host of delightfully quirky characters, and as a small town girl myself I really appreciated that the author showed the beautiful aspects of small town life, and that she also showed the imperfections and messiness that inevitably exist in small towns despite what Hallmark would have us believe!
I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful story and cannot wait for this author’s next book!
I highlighted so many favorite passages, and I absolutely loved the ending!
If you are looking for a heartwarming small town romcom with depth and a great faith story be sure to check out Drive You Crazy
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author and publisher!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
May 17, 2026
Squeaky clean romance- nothing inappropriate that I can think of (so appreciated!). Good morals without being preachy. I like that the lead guy was an Aussie.
I would say, "By far Jessica Kate's best book yet," but her previous book 'A Girl's Guide to the Outback' was really good, too. I enjoyed this one. Jessica is getting so good at the chic lit banter & the flow of the chapters & the character interactions. Her observational metaphors are reliably amusing. She's getting quite masterful at this writing thing. It's lovely to see her skills ripening & maturing. You go, girl!
The characters were colourful, so well fleshed out, & relatable. This was a very realistic small town, but I love that there's still idealism here. I enjoyed the POV changing between chapters. I liked that most of the chapters weren't long, so I could dive in & out of the book as I had snatches of time to read. The cover art is gorgeous. I like that the book had weight & substance without being stressful, & it balanced out the whimsy & humour well. I would recommend this one.
I would say, "By far Jessica Kate's best book yet," but her previous book 'A Girl's Guide to the Outback' was really good, too. I enjoyed this one. Jessica is getting so good at the chic lit banter & the flow of the chapters & the character interactions. Her observational metaphors are reliably amusing. She's getting quite masterful at this writing thing. It's lovely to see her skills ripening & maturing. You go, girl!
The characters were colourful, so well fleshed out, & relatable. This was a very realistic small town, but I love that there's still idealism here. I enjoyed the POV changing between chapters. I liked that most of the chapters weren't long, so I could dive in & out of the book as I had snatches of time to read. The cover art is gorgeous. I like that the book had weight & substance without being stressful, & it balanced out the whimsy & humour well. I would recommend this one.
June 17, 2024
I loved Girl's Guide to the Outback and have been waiting for years for another full-length book from Jessica Kate. This one did not disappoint! In fact, it's the best thing I've read since I got Kindle Unlimited.
Ashley and Justin's journey was so genuine. They made relatable mistakes and handled the junk thrown at them like real people would. In fact, they were so authentic, I found myself thinking of them throughout the day like I would a real-life friend.
The best part of the book is the very real work both need to do to let go of the lies they picked up along the way and replace them with Truth from God. Though not at all preachy, this book is definitely Christian and the characters' faith plays a big role in their growth.
Ashley and Justin's journey was so genuine. They made relatable mistakes and handled the junk thrown at them like real people would. In fact, they were so authentic, I found myself thinking of them throughout the day like I would a real-life friend.
The best part of the book is the very real work both need to do to let go of the lies they picked up along the way and replace them with Truth from God. Though not at all preachy, this book is definitely Christian and the characters' faith plays a big role in their growth.
February 27, 2024
Drive Your Crazy will give you all the feels.
This romantic comedy will have you laughing out loud at the quick witted banter and antics of main characters Ashley and Justin, as their prickly interactions lead to forced proximity, friendship and eventually more. But don't think this book is fluffy. Both characters, in their own way, are dealing with family dynamics that have hurt them for years, struggling to feel connected and unable to voice their true thoughts. Readers will love this authentic storyline full of references to the TV show Gilmore Girls and nods to the Australian outback!!
This romantic comedy will have you laughing out loud at the quick witted banter and antics of main characters Ashley and Justin, as their prickly interactions lead to forced proximity, friendship and eventually more. But don't think this book is fluffy. Both characters, in their own way, are dealing with family dynamics that have hurt them for years, struggling to feel connected and unable to voice their true thoughts. Readers will love this authentic storyline full of references to the TV show Gilmore Girls and nods to the Australian outback!!
November 3, 2025
I had a bit of trouble getting into this story at first, which could have had more to do with my headspace at the time than the book itself. Even then, once I got further into it, I found it an enjoyable Christian romance. I liked Ashley, whose internal monologue was relatable, even though her wild clothes sense wasn't so much. Justin was harder to get a read on early, but I think that was how he was supposed to be as a character. The story itself also wasn't immediately predictable, as some romances are, so that was nice. All in all, it was an enjoyable read and is recommended to those who like this genre.
February 23, 2024
If you like books with the enemies-to-love trope, small town romances, family issues and Gilmore Girls, you'll love this book from Jessica Kate. It's a rom com, as Jessica is known for, but also goes pretty deep into the pain caused by broken families and broken people - especially when the children hurt by those families are adults. Loved the wisdom in it, although at times I just wanted to knock the two main characters over the head with some sense.
Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy to review.
Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy to review.
February 29, 2024
I think that this book is a cute and fun story to read. There were times that I laughed out loud and there were times in this story when I thought, Oh, no! The characters in this book are charming and memorable too. I so enjoyed reading this book by a new to me author that I look forward to other books by her!
*Thank you to the author Jessica Kate for allowing me to read an eBook copy of her story in exchange for my honest opinion/review of her book!
*Thank you to the author Jessica Kate for allowing me to read an eBook copy of her story in exchange for my honest opinion/review of her book!
March 14, 2025
A good read though with a little more conflict than I like. Ashley and Justin both have serious and justified issues with their families. Those issues definitely have left both scarred. I appreciate that the issues weren't just magic wand fixed. But at times the lack of progress made the book drag and left me frustrated. Also there wasn't much levity to break up the constant darkness in the second half of the book. It was realistic. It just wasn't great for when I was already stressed.
April 14, 2025
Drive You Crazy is a fun, quick read.
Read for:
🛻 Grumpy/sunshine
🛻small town
🛻Gilmore Girls references/vibes
🛻witty banter
🛻forced proximity
🛻family issues
🛻Australian references
While this is a rom-com, it deals with heavier issues like abandonment, grief, mental health, therapy, and the harsh reality of dysfunctional family dynamics. It is done in a way the book does not have a heavy feel, nor could it be considered a fluff read.
Read for:
🛻 Grumpy/sunshine
🛻small town
🛻Gilmore Girls references/vibes
🛻witty banter
🛻forced proximity
🛻family issues
🛻Australian references
While this is a rom-com, it deals with heavier issues like abandonment, grief, mental health, therapy, and the harsh reality of dysfunctional family dynamics. It is done in a way the book does not have a heavy feel, nor could it be considered a fluff read.
January 1, 2025
Really liked the underlying message
The theme of this book is forgiveness. When those closest to you consistently let you down. Learning how forgiveness can help you heal. Great reminders for my own life. Oh, yeah. This is also a romance novel. But with two flawed characters who are invested in each other and their relationships with their family and God. Bravo, Jessica.
The theme of this book is forgiveness. When those closest to you consistently let you down. Learning how forgiveness can help you heal. Great reminders for my own life. Oh, yeah. This is also a romance novel. But with two flawed characters who are invested in each other and their relationships with their family and God. Bravo, Jessica.
February 11, 2024
At the first of the book I didn’t really care for either main character. I am so glad I continued to read. Once Ashley and Justin start carpooling the friendship starts to take off. This is one of the best well developed enemies to lovers romance.
April 1, 2024
Drive Me Crazy, is a wonderful neighbors, enemy to friends to more, family drama, small town craziness that makes for a perfectly great read! And you’ll also get a taste for Australia as the author is a native to there so it’s fun to hear some of their words and dialect.
October 29, 2025
Really, really enjoyed. The family conflicts, in particular, were really well drawn. They hit me in the heart and moved me to tears multiple times. The Christian message, that God loves us even if our families let us down, was clear without being heavy handed.
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