Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
The fast-paced world of Formula 1 provides the backdrop for this competent contemporary from Dent (Just One Taste). Chloe Coleman is breaking gender barriers working for Arden Racing as one of the first female F1 team principals, but struggles to overcome imposter syndrome and gain respect from her misogynistic coworkers. It doesn't help when she learns that the struggling Arden Racing has also just signed driver Matt Warner. Once a rising star, Matt's career has suffered after a traumatic crash that injured his friend and left him rattled. He's also Chloe's teen crush. The pair were close during their young, ambitious go-kart-racing days but lost touch when Matt entered F1. How exactly this backstory played out is revealed in drawn-out flashbacks hinting at some big betrayal or heartbreak that, when it's revealed, feels underwhelming. Meanwhile, in the present, Chloe must find a way to work with Matt as his manager and help him rise in the racing ranks once more. Matt's and Chloe's ambition and resilience make them admirable heroes, but Dent doesn't do quite enough to make the racing scenes exciting to those not already invested in F1. Devoted sports romance fans, however, are sure to have a good time with this. (Jan.)
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Review by Library Journal Review
Chloe Coleman has finally reached the top as team principal of a Formula 1 racing team, but it's hard to feel like a success when people still refuse to take her seriously, as when her boss hires a new driver without consulting her. To add insult to injury, that driver turns out to be her childhood crush and former best friend Matt Warner. While this is Chloe's first chance to prove herself, it might be Matt's last. He's lost his edge since seeing his teammate injured in a crash Matt caused, but if anyone can help him get his groove back, it's Chloe. Dent (Just One Taste) presents a fun, fast-paced contemporary romance with well-developed characters and engaging workplace attraction. Narrators Van Der Westhuysen and East enhance the text by fleshing out both characters and revealing their emotional depths. Their performances feel effortless yet engrossing, full of passion and playful chemistry. VERDICT This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a steamy sports romance about first loves and fast cars. Recommended for fans of Kelley Armstrong, Tessa Bailey, and Ali Hazelwood.--Lauren Hackert
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A Formula 1 team principal has to work with a struggling driver who also happens to be her childhood crush. Chloe Coleman has her work cut out for her as team principal of Arden Racing, the worst team in F1. Not only does she have the monumental task of getting her team back on top, but as one of the first female team principals, she faces sexism and a lack of respect. Her job becomes even harder when Matt Warner joins the team. Once one of the most promising drivers in the sport, he's been flailing ever since the fiery crash that severely injured his best friend. But Matt isn't just another driver to Chloe. He was a close friend to her when they were kids, and she nursed an unrequited crush on him for years--until he ditched her when his career took off. Matt's trauma and his refusal to talk about it make it hard for Chloe to help him succeed, and they butt heads for a short while--that is, until their chemistry becomes too intense to ignore. They fall into a clandestine love affair quite quickly, ending any "will-they-or-won't-they" tension. The suspense comes more from their parallel career journeys as Chloe learns to believe in herself and demand respect, while Matt learns to forgive himself and face his fears. Chloe and Matt are both afraid that being honest about their relationship could tank Chloe's career, provide fodder for the rumor mill, and distract them from their shared goal of transforming Arden into a truly great team. The conflict in their relationship--keeping their love a secret from the prying press--never feels as high-stakes as their career conflicts, but there are enough steamy scenes and hijinks along the way to keep readers entertained. A fun and fast-paced racing romance. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
