Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty by Jody Gehrman

If this novel feels like it's a familiar tale, that's because it's a retelling of William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing. This tale of trickery, set-ups, mistaken identities, and love gets an enjoyable modern spin twist.

Summer has finally arrived and Geena can't wait to spend it with her best friend Amber and her cousin Hero. Unfortunately the two girls can't stand each other, which puts Geena in the middle while dealing with Ben who is her arch rival. Ben and his friend PJ introduce the girls to a visiting Italian, Claudio, whom Hero instantly falls in love with - thankfully the feeling is mutual. Sadly her father has a strict no dating rule, although he doesn't lighten up but only if Geena will chaperone. At the same time, Claudio isn't the only one interested in Hero, there's also John who is the most popular boy in town, a boy whom Amber has feelings for. Hero doesn't have an interest in John, a fact that he doesn't accept easily. She's desperate to date Claudio but first has to get Geena to agree to a double date and she thinks the perfect partner for he cousin would be Ben. Pretty soon Hero's using trickery to get Geena and Ben together and John's doing some underhanded maneuvers to get back at Hero for blowing him off. Turmoil ensues and it's a good time as the good guys try to come out on top.

I have minor knowledge of the Shakespeare play and found this book to do a good job of representing the story. Even without knowing the play, this was an enjoyable book. True, some of it felt as if it's been done before, but what do you expect when it's based on a century old story? This author did a good job of modernizing everything and making each character unique. You felt for the character and wanted justice served. Overall it was a quick read.

This is a great story and well worth the read if you're looking for a little romance and drama.
MMK