Not My Problem audiobook

How am I supposed to review my most anticipated release of the year? From the first page I knew my fears that it wouldn’t live up to The Falling in Love Montage or my (extremely high) expectations were pointless. Not My Problem is laugh out loud funny and full of heart – a coming of age novel that will stay with you long after the final page. Ciara Smyth explores themes of poverty, alcoholism, family and friendship with grace and nuance, offsetting them perfectly with her signature humour, teen hijinks and a charming romance. Lighthearted and real, Not My Problem is Derry Girls in book form and a must read for all contemporary lovers.Aideen was a great main character and I loved reading from her perspective. Ciara Smyth has a real talent for writing characters that can be unlikeable and prickly to those around them, while allowing the reader to completely understand and sympathise with them. I very quickly connected with Aideen and could always empathise with her and understand her motivations, even as she made mistakes and frustrated me at times. She’s stubborn and proud and has had to grow up too quickly to take care of her mam and this all played perfectly into her character and decisions. I loved her development through the book, as she learned that it’s okay to ask for help and rely on others. Aideen’s use of wit and sarcasm to deflect from her problems was deeply relatable and I adored her sense of humour. Speaking of which, the humour in this book is some of the best I’ve read. It’s genuinely funny and, along with the rest of the dialogue, sounds like it’s coming from actual teenagers.I loved the way this book explored different relationships, particularly the relationship that developed between Aideen and Maebh, the love interest. They’re both snarky and stubborn but in entirely different ways and I loved watching as they softened around each other, letting down their walls as they grew closer. I also loved Kavi and the himbo / lesbian solidarity between him and Aideen. He was just the sweetest ray of sunshine who brightened every scene he was in. I particularly loved the bathtub scene between the three of them; it was so touching and I really felt like it led to a deeper understanding of the characters, both for the reader and the characters themselves. There’s a real ‘misfits finding love, support and acceptance in a found family’ dynamic going on between those three and I really just loved reading their scenes together. I could go on forever about how perfectly they all fit together and complement each other but I’ll let you experience that for yourself.Not My Problem also explores some more negative and unhealthy relationships with great sensitivity, while not shying away from just how toxic they can be and the effect that can have on someone. I thought the relationship between Aideen and her best friend, Holly, was particularly important and I really appreciated the resolution of that plotline. Aideen’s narration surrounding this relationship really let you into her thoughts and her insecurities, and also allowed you to see her grow and come into her own which I loved. Aideen’s relationship with her mam was complicated and messy and all too real. I can’t say whether it was done perfectly because I’m lucky enough to have never been in such a situation. However, I thought the author did a good job of showing the highs and lows and complex feelings that surround such a relationship and the effect your family’s situation can have on every aspect of your life.Not My Problem was incredibly immersive and I found myself unable to put it down (leading to me finishing it late at night and sleeping past my alarm when I had an early morning class woops). The ending was perfect for the book and I loved how different plot points were resolved, while acknowledging that these characters still have a lot of growing to do and that everything cannot be suddenly fixed just because it’s the end of the book. The writing is engaging and witty and Aideen’s voice was clear all the way through. Once again Ciara Smyth has shown her talent for writing authentic characters and relationships. Everything about her books just feel so real to me and I love them so much. This book definitely wasn’t as romance centred as The Falling in Love Montage; it was more focused on Aideen’s character and the problems she faces. However, her relationship with Maebh still played an important role and there were an abundance of sweet moments.Some other things I loved about this book include Aideen’s “social enterprise” of fixing other people’s problems. These favours led to lots of fun and new friends and I adored how it all played into the resolution of the book and Aideen’s development. I also loved the lesbian representation. As with Ciara Smyth’s debut, our main characters’ sexualities are already established and are never a source of conflict in the book. The use of the label ‘lesbian’ on page was as affirming as ever and I loved some of the discussions surround sexuality, particularly when Aideen and Maebh end up having to change together. Another thing I loved was the inclusion of ‘Irishisms’ – Irish slang, references and spellings. I felt like this did a lot to establish the setting of the book. As a Scot my language is similarly full of little bits unique to Scotland and although I didn’t recognise all of the Irish words, I did really enjoy seeing them and felt that it was a closer representation to the way I speak and my school experience than I’ve ever read before.It is no secret that I love The Falling in Love Montage. I’d go as far to say that it’s my favourite book of all time. This is not just because of the book itself, but the impact it had on me. I read it at the absolute perfect time; I had been struggling with realising I was a lesbian and accepting this label for myself. Seeing Saoirse and Ruby as these lesbians who were confident and comfortable in their identity really helped me begin the journey towards being as comfortable with my own sexuality. That’s all to say, I don’t think I can compare Smyth’s novels fairly. Because the impact TFILM had on me and the personal meaning it took on is inseparable from my opinion of it and Not My Problem simply didn’t have this same impact. This is not a bad thing, or a point against it – not every book is going to change your life. Although I have no doubt that NMP will mean just as much to other readers as TFILM does to me. I love both of these novels for different reasons and I’m sure I’ll love anything else Ciara Smyth writes for its own unique reason too.Once again the humanity of Ciara’s books astounds me. Not My Problem is full of authentic characters and relationships and explores real world problems with sensitivity and nuance. The humour, romance and complex feelings are all expertly written to create relatable characters with an emphasis on the power of human connection. This book is not always easy to read as it tackles difficult themes but there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Full of charm, wit and feeling, Not My Problem is an instant favourite that I couldn’t recommend more. (And I promise I’m not just saying that because I’m in the acknowledgements).If you’re interested in hearing more of my thoughts or seeing my reactions, check out my book talk here. And if you want to know more about why The Falling in Love Montage means so much to me, I speak about it here.Thank you so much to Ciara Smyth for sending me a copy of this, I am eternally grateful ♡I also talk about books here: youtube | instagram | twitter

This book is class. 12/10 would write again the same way.

Four words: I ADORE THIS BOOK! “Was being happy for a little while better than never being happy?” Not My problem is a coming of age novel that deals with alcoholism, loneliness, unexpected love, as well as emotional connections that come with true friendship. The plot is pretty average but is still interesting. I enjoyed the quid-pro-quo concepts and how everyone comes together at the end. The story is elementary yet heartwarming. Writing Style: If you're on a reading slump, I think this book is great for you to read. It's written in simple prose, clear plot points with well-defined characters; making it easier to read. If I am not occupied with my internship, I'd have finished this in a sitting. Characters: The characters are a major success and the more reasons for you to love this book. Aideen is entertaining, compassionate and overall just loveable. Her character is raw and I teared up for the emotional authenticity that runs throughout the novel. I don't think I am similar to Aideen (I'm more assertive) but I find her personality to be very relatable. Not to say, all the side characters are equally delightful. I love Meabh and her persona, Kavi for being the best best friend someone could ask for, the P.E teacher and even Holly, who is not much likeable. However, I valued all these flaws in the characters, showing us how timelessly human they are. Romance: This book does not put romance as its focus but I find myself still enjoying them. Aideen and Meabh's dynamic is adorable and are complimentary to one another. Things started odd between them, but I'm never invested with adversaries to lovers as I did with this one. At other times, I don't think I'd appreciate the kind of ending that this book has but Not My Problem finished its story wonderfully. The book is exceptionally well-layered and a fun read that would keep you hooked from the start. It's the perfect combination of amusing and eye-opening book that you would not want to miss. If you have this on your TBR, just go and start it!

this book was exactly what I needed.

welcome to 202-Queer 🌈✨, the year where i only read queer books and finally have fun 🌈✨honestly, at this point i just need Ciara Smyth to write more books.this was both exactly what i expected it to be and also not.the characters were once again just really charming. CS is just great at characterisation. a lot of the times in romance at least one of the love interests doesn't have... a personality, but CS's mains are always very unique and loveable and i just want to squish them both (affectionately). and the way the author writes male/female friendships??? unmatched. Kavi was a DELIGHT.the family related subplot was once again just... very sad. YA contemporary romance really doesn't shy away from the harshness of reality, there's always a very deep and meaningful discussion to be had about problems that actually concern many people. it makes me appreciate YA contemporaries a lot, i realised. Adult romance is often just... - well.i also liked the portrayal of toxic friendships in this one and the "life lesson" that there are people out there who will treat you with love and respect and that you don't have to put up with someone who is mean to you while pretending to care about you.like The Falling in Love Montage this was also funny af and had me laughing out loud several times. there was also humour and levity in serious situations but it also managed to stay serious when the situation called for it.overall i definitely liked The Falling in Love Montage better but i still enjoyed reading this one and i DESPERATELY need Ciara Smyth to write more books, i'm begging

ciara smyth does something in her books which i’ve found is quite rare, and it is that she makes them truly, genuinely funny. not even just a ‘i let out a huff of air to show that i appreciated that sentence,’ but real laughter. i read this book when i was sad, and it was the perfect reprieve from the world: even as the main character, aideen’s, world is falling apart, she manages to be absolutely hilarious throughout.i would like to begin by saying that both leads are lesbians, and identify as such (!!!), which we definitely need more of in books. ‘not my problem’ is more of a slow burn than ‘the falling in love montage,’ focused more on plot than romance, but it is definitely still worth a read. for one, each of the main characters are both flawed and lovable. they are full, well-rounded people, who are more charming because they are complete. the title of the book is actually a little misleading, because aideen attempts to fix every problem she comes across, both those that are her own (desperately trying to stop her mam from drinking again), and those that aren’t (helping meabh with her busy schedule despite the fact that they aren’t even on friendly terms). (by the way: meabh is pronounced ‘maeve.’ yes, i had to google it.) there wasn’t one point in this book where i got tired of it, or wanted to put it down. despite wanting to be an author, sometimes i struggle with words. i’m not certain how to truly promote this book or express how much i loved it. but, seriously: read this book.

Aideen is sharp tongued, unfiltered, and funny as hell. She’s 16 years old and fantasizes about an HEA with Kristen Stewart that’s sure to happen someday, she thinks dreamily. But in reality, troubles at home and the difficulties of being a poor teen trying to keep up at a wealthy school are slowly drowning her. She’s not a loner but she’s not really seen by the other students which I think is by choice. Whether it’s because of shame or a sense of failure, Aideen works hard to hide her family secrets by showing up to just enough classes and shooting off a quick wit that deflects anyone from getting too close. Her best friend seems to have drifted away, making her feel even more alone. Then some unforeseen hijinks come Aideen’s way pushing her down a new path. Two remarkable things about this author’s writing. One is that she buries her main character in the reader’s heart. The other is that she does not let you off the hook because once she’s gotten you to care, then you’re getting the whole story and you’re not going to turn away. I teared up, I belly laughed, and I wanted to tell Aideen that all would be well. The secondary characters are wonderful too. Aideen learns as we do that everyone in life has their own struggles just like she does. But lucky for her, her new found friends refuse to let Aideen tackle the world alone. In case you’re wondering, a sweet crush is involved. I loved every bit of this book just as much as The Falling in Love Montage and I highly recommend.Read an arc courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely loved this. Ciara Smyth is the best.I wrote a review for Autostraddle, Ciara Smyth's Books Remind Me of Being a Teenager.

Despite intending to start a different book, something compelled me to pick up Not My Problem instead and I was hooked very quickly. NMP has been compared to the TV programme Derry Girls, and it's a really accurate comparison - it's just as funny and filled with teen-related hijinks, but with an additional deeper underlayer that characterises Smyth's books. Aideen is a heroine you love almost immediately - her narrative voice gripped me with it's humorous tone and compelled me to finish the book in under 24 hours. And the story itself is really heartwarming, with her going from an almost-loner to amassing a group of assorted friends through her little troubleshooter/favour-for-favour system. She's witty and sarcastic, but she also has a lot of heart and is always willing to help - even people she doesn't know. She's a really good egg. Aideen's relationship with love interest Meabh is equally wonderful, building up slowly over the course of the novel over bickering text messages and ill-formed plans. Meabh, actually, is a character who is a stiff, high-strung overachiever . . . until you learn more about about her through Aideen's eyes and become really fond of her. She's not a 'perfect' character, but this meant I only liked her more because she felt genuine. Things that others would consider flaws were things Aideen really liked about her, which was really sweet and very much how it often goes in real life too. Kavi is the second character who makes up the third member of their little trip, and he is THE cinnamon roll of this book! He's really darn cute and I love him, and the sense of warmth and joy and love he emanated throughout the book was priceless. He goes on spiels and you can really imagine him just saying all these massive speeches without stopping to breathe, and 4.5 starsrep: lesbian mc; lesbian polish-irish love interest

Last year I had a really fun time reading Ciara Smyth’s debut novel, The Falling in Love Montage, and after seeing just how much Theresa over at Sappho’s Library adored this second novel, I knew that I needed to pick it up (and I was so lucky to actually win a signed copy in a giveaway!). Not My Problem follows Aideen who’s life isn’t going as smoothly as she’d perhaps hope – she’s failing pretty much every class at school, her best friend seems to have other best friends, and her mum’s drinking again even though she promised she wouldn’t. But one morning, Aideen walks in on headteacher’s daughter and all round annoying polymath, Meabh Kowalska, mid-breakdown in the PE.. changing rooms and everything changes. Meabh convinces Aideen to push her down the stairs so she can injure herself just enough to get out of her many responsibilities, and Aideen is all too happy to help. But soon, Aideen finds herself at the centre of an enterprise fixing other people’s problems but at the expense of her very own.There’s a blurb on this book that compares Not My Problem to Derry Girls – and I think that that’s the perfect way to describe it, with a bit of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging and maybe a sprinkle of Jacqueline Wilson’s novels thrown in there too! This book is honestly so, so much fun and absolutely hilarious! I loved how Irish this book is, first and foremost. It’s definitely a step up from her first novel in that sense, and with how close Irish and Scots slang is (as well as some of our culture) I really appreciated all of Aideen’s snarky quips!Aideen herself was such a great main character and I really felt for her throughout the whole book. If I had to describe her I’d say that she’s a mix of Erin from Derry Girls and Georgia from Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, but also very very gay! Throughout the book she’s dealing with some pretty shitty situations, but she’s also really compassionate and empathetic in her own sarcastic way. I absolutely loved seeing what new ridiculous ailments she’d come up with to get out of doing P.E. as well as all the banter with her teachers. I also really loved Meabh and I felt so sorry for all the hatred people seemed to have for her. She really is the kind of girl who would do absolutely anything for her friends and I just really adored her. And don’t get me started on Kavi. I love a good himbo but Kavi…he’s up there with the best of them. He was definitely my favourite character in the book and I wish I had a himbo best friend like Kavi for myself. He was just the sweetest cinnamon roll and he even made me cry while reading the book because of how kind he is!The plot, though it may sound a tad ridiculous at first, was really so much fun! I loved reading all the hilarious hijinks that Aideen got up to as well as seeing how all the characters’ plotlines all ended up mixing together at the end. Though this is a really funny book there are some more serious topics in here too, such as living with alcoholic parents and being poor. Though I can’t speak for either representation, I do think in general that they were handled very sensitively. Though I wish that no-one ever needed to use them, I think the inclusion of a main character going to a foodbank was something that is sadly very necessary to see in young adult, and also very realistic, and once again Ciara Smyth has managed to find the perfect balance between hilarious writing, sweet sapphic romance, and hard-hitting plotlines.Overall, I really enjoyed this book, so much more than I was expecting to when I first picked it up, and I think it’s one of the best YA contemporary novels that I’ve picked up this year so far. If witty writing and snarky sapphics doesn’t convince you enough to pick this book up…at least do it for Kavi!!Want more sapphic books? You can find me here: Book Blog | Twitter | Instagram

Perfect for fans of Sex Education. Aideen is one of the most standout YA protags I've seen.

I FELL IN LOVE RIGHT OFF THE BAT 😍 "It started with Meabh Kowalska having a temper tantrum in the girls’ changing room." And with that opening line, I was hooked. I simply had to know the story - why was Maebh having a temper tantrum? And what subsequent story was born from it? The answers did not let me down!💙 What I Loved 💙Friendship: In the beginning, Aideen, our MC, only really has one friend - Holly. But as the story evolves, Aideen expands her group of friends and realises what real friendship is actually supposed to be. Friendship is about standing up for each other, having each others backs and sharing with each other. I liked that this focused both on toxic friendships (I've been in one until recently, and this was uncomfortably recognizable) and healthy relationships. I think it's an important message to get out - just because someone used to be your friend doesn't mean they'll always bee your friend. Sometimes friendships fall apart and that's okay. A friendship is more than just a word. Remember that.Laugh-out-loud: There were so many instances of genuine laugh-out-loud moments. The characters each bring their own sense of humour to the table and I was particularly fond of Aideen's many, various diseases.Characters: Aideen's paying-it-forward scheme gets her in touch with a wide variety of characters who are all amazing in each their own way. There are some, that appear more frequently and that play bigger roles than others, but they each serve a purpose and represent a distinct lesson for Aideen to learn. My favourite characters were definitely Kavi (that boy is FUN!), Aideen and Maebh. They were each so relatable in their own way. I even loved to hate Holly.Aideen: I rooted for Aideen all the way through. I rooted for her to find her own voice. For her to finally trust someone. For her to let someone into her life. For her to stand up for herself and chose to make herself happy for once. Her arc throughout this story was inspirational, heartwarming and amazing. Follow me for more book loving content!Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter Blog Post: 10 Books Perfect for Autumn Time