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Racing Heat
I’ve always heard that love finds you when you least expect it. I never believed it—until fate decided to prove me wrong in the form of Jase Ford, the sweet, charming, and oh-so-English Goalie Coach for my team, the Tampa Bay Blaze.
He’s everything I never knew I needed, but he’s also the one person I can’t have.
The Blaze has a strict no fraternization policy, which means no touching. But oh, there’s been touching. Breaking the rules has never felt so good.
Now, I’m caught in a whirlwind of passion and consequences. Can I keep my team and the love I’ve found? Or will giving in to temptation cost me everything?
He’s everything I never knew I needed, but he’s also the one person I can’t have.
The Blaze has a strict no fraternization policy, which means no touching. But oh, there’s been touching. Breaking the rules has never felt so good.
Now, I’m caught in a whirlwind of passion and consequences. Can I keep my team and the love I’ve found? Or will giving in to temptation cost me everything?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2025
1 person is currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Stray
16 books95 followersJL Stray has always enjoyed reading books and writing stories. Finally, she gathered up enough courage to publish one herself. A former Policy Specialist and current Consultant, she spends any extra moment she has writing, outlining and scheming her next book.
Raised in a small town in Pennsylvania, she graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Public Policy. Most days she uses one of those degrees in either her career or dealing with her children.
J.L. lives in that same small town, with her three very active children, who always have her at a diamond, field or court. She is a lover of books, shoes, beaches, and a strong drink.
Raised in a small town in Pennsylvania, she graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Public Policy. Most days she uses one of those degrees in either her career or dealing with her children.
J.L. lives in that same small town, with her three very active children, who always have her at a diamond, field or court. She is a lover of books, shoes, beaches, and a strong drink.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 13, 2025
This book was provided to my by NetGalley and JL Stray so I want to say thank you for the copy!!
This book is the 2nd in the Forbidden Heat series. I have book one posted with a review so check it out!
If any of these are your vibe I definitely recommend to check both of these books out!
⚽️ Sports Romance
🔥 Female Athlete
⚽️ Forbidden romance
🔥 Worplace Romance
⚽️ English Alpha
🔥 Age Gap
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
🔥 Open Door Spice
Starting out this book I was excited to see that this story followed another player on the female soccer league and we got to see a different relationship/dynamic from a familiar character in the first story. Initially going into this I thought we would pick up and follow the love interest from the first book and that wasn’t the case. However I was pleasantly surprised!
The style in which JL wrote was an easy faced paced read which says a lot for me as I am on the slower side of reading. The verbiage wasn’t super wordy or heavily overdone which I kind of appreciated.
I had a lot of fun with this story! I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship between Cassie and Jase grow stronger as the book progressed. You could really feel how much they loved and cared for each other and how it continued to grow. Especially the MMC, Jase. I could tell how much love he had for Cassie and how much her career meant to him, more so than his own and how he would do anything to protect her and her career.
I do want to let those that venture into this series to know that while I enjoyed this book, and while it does have the same rating as the first book, I did enjoy that one slightly more. This book is somewhat of a slow burn. It started a little slow and quickly picked up but then fell off for a little bit and picked right back up at the and reeled me back in.
Both book one and two hint at a relationship with the co owner and one of the other females players and that is what reeled me in towards the end of book two! I am very much hoping that JL Strays book three lets us know what that’s all about because I am definitely invested!
The spice factor for me personally was just okay. I would rate the spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️ maybe even 3.5
While the spice scenes were kinda spicy they were far and few between. Especially compared to the first book.. but that is not to say they weren’t enjoyable because they were!
Overall, this was a fun, cute and spicy read! I definitely recommend if you are looking for something light, fun and with a little bit of spice! I’ll be adding both book one and two to my shelf as well because the covers are up my alley! I’m a sucker for a good cover 😍
RACING HEAT AVAILABLE 6.19.25 ON AMAZON, KU AND MORE!
This book is the 2nd in the Forbidden Heat series. I have book one posted with a review so check it out!
If any of these are your vibe I definitely recommend to check both of these books out!
⚽️ Sports Romance
🔥 Female Athlete
⚽️ Forbidden romance
🔥 Worplace Romance
⚽️ English Alpha
🔥 Age Gap
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
🔥 Open Door Spice
Starting out this book I was excited to see that this story followed another player on the female soccer league and we got to see a different relationship/dynamic from a familiar character in the first story. Initially going into this I thought we would pick up and follow the love interest from the first book and that wasn’t the case. However I was pleasantly surprised!
The style in which JL wrote was an easy faced paced read which says a lot for me as I am on the slower side of reading. The verbiage wasn’t super wordy or heavily overdone which I kind of appreciated.
I had a lot of fun with this story! I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship between Cassie and Jase grow stronger as the book progressed. You could really feel how much they loved and cared for each other and how it continued to grow. Especially the MMC, Jase. I could tell how much love he had for Cassie and how much her career meant to him, more so than his own and how he would do anything to protect her and her career.
I do want to let those that venture into this series to know that while I enjoyed this book, and while it does have the same rating as the first book, I did enjoy that one slightly more. This book is somewhat of a slow burn. It started a little slow and quickly picked up but then fell off for a little bit and picked right back up at the and reeled me back in.
Both book one and two hint at a relationship with the co owner and one of the other females players and that is what reeled me in towards the end of book two! I am very much hoping that JL Strays book three lets us know what that’s all about because I am definitely invested!
The spice factor for me personally was just okay. I would rate the spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️ maybe even 3.5
While the spice scenes were kinda spicy they were far and few between. Especially compared to the first book.. but that is not to say they weren’t enjoyable because they were!
Overall, this was a fun, cute and spicy read! I definitely recommend if you are looking for something light, fun and with a little bit of spice! I’ll be adding both book one and two to my shelf as well because the covers are up my alley! I’m a sucker for a good cover 😍
RACING HEAT AVAILABLE 6.19.25 ON AMAZON, KU AND MORE!
June 20, 2025
For me, this book just didn’t hook me. I read it all but it wasn’t for me. I loved the female athlete fmc and had never read a female athlete romance so I did enjoy that. What I struggled with was a few things.
During their intimate encounters, not once was any sort of discussion regarding safe s€x or lack their of. I get it is a book, it is not real, etc.- but it just felt extremely off especially since he is 38 to her 22. That is not really something either of them with the way their characters were written seemed like they would not discuss. He is an older professional women’s soccer coach/former professional soccer player, she is a young professional soccer player just starting her career- both in totally different stages of life but both have huge responsibilities. Again, I know this is a story, not real people, highly unlikely scenario for real life, but it just seemed out of place that they didn’t discuss anything regarding the matter.
At 61% in the book their relationship had not progressed to do anything more than have stolen looks, hushed flirting and secret encounters for running and the occasional private outing/intimate scene. I understand forbidden workplace romance, keep it hush hush but even in secret it hadn’t progressed much.
I did enjoy their personalities and the banter, they were good characters individually but struggled to have a well written connection that wasn’t just flirting/intimate encounters.
During their intimate encounters, not once was any sort of discussion regarding safe s€x or lack their of. I get it is a book, it is not real, etc.- but it just felt extremely off especially since he is 38 to her 22. That is not really something either of them with the way their characters were written seemed like they would not discuss. He is an older professional women’s soccer coach/former professional soccer player, she is a young professional soccer player just starting her career- both in totally different stages of life but both have huge responsibilities. Again, I know this is a story, not real people, highly unlikely scenario for real life, but it just seemed out of place that they didn’t discuss anything regarding the matter.
At 61% in the book their relationship had not progressed to do anything more than have stolen looks, hushed flirting and secret encounters for running and the occasional private outing/intimate scene. I understand forbidden workplace romance, keep it hush hush but even in secret it hadn’t progressed much.
I did enjoy their personalities and the banter, they were good characters individually but struggled to have a well written connection that wasn’t just flirting/intimate encounters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2025
Racing Heat by J.L. Stray is a sizzling sports romance that delivers the perfect mix of forbidden passion and fierce ambition. When a determined, talented woman carves out her space in the demanding world of professional hockey, she never expects to fall for the charming English goalie coach—breaking her team’s strict no fraternization rule in the process. Their secret romance is thrilling, rule-breaking, and impossible to put down as they fight to keep both their careers and their hearts intact.
I loved how this book balanced the electric chemistry with a strong, driven heroine who knows her worth on and off the ice. The forbidden aspect kept me hooked, adding just the right amount of tension and delicious risk to every stolen moment. If you love sports romances with confident women, off-limits love, and plenty of heat, I highly recommend Racing Heat to fans of steamy contemporary romance and sports drama!
I loved how this book balanced the electric chemistry with a strong, driven heroine who knows her worth on and off the ice. The forbidden aspect kept me hooked, adding just the right amount of tension and delicious risk to every stolen moment. If you love sports romances with confident women, off-limits love, and plenty of heat, I highly recommend Racing Heat to fans of steamy contemporary romance and sports drama!
June 19, 2025
As I am utterly captivated by soccer, I was excited to find that this story focused on a new player in the women's soccer league and showcased a different dynamic or relationship involving a character we recognized from the earlier narrative. I initially thought we would continue with the love interest from the first book, but I was wrong. However, I received an amazing surprise!
I prefer reading at a slower pace, so JL's easygoing, laid-back writing style resonates with me. I somewhat appreciated that the language wasn’t too verbose or extravagant.
Jase was employed as the goalkeeper coach for Tampa's newly established professional women's soccer team. He is in Tampa with a work visa for Manchester United. Cassie, a recent college graduate, is one of the starters.
Cassie and Jase became running buddies after bumping into each other one lovely morning. One cannot ignore the chemistry that forms between them as their friendship deepens! The drawback is that they have both consented to a no-fraternization policy, making it risky for their careers if they take it too far. They ultimately end up in a perilous situation as their connection deepens and those limits start to blur. What occurs if the truth comes to light?
One of those stories that brings a smile is Racing Heat. It quickly grabs your focus with the perfect mix of allure, gentle romance, and heartfelt tension. The understated intimacy between the characters is what truly stands out, especially how his unwavering support makes her feel grounded. It's about simply being there, even when words fall short, instead of grand displays. Their bond seems authentic, caring, and deeply satisfying due to that ongoing connection.
I prefer reading at a slower pace, so JL's easygoing, laid-back writing style resonates with me. I somewhat appreciated that the language wasn’t too verbose or extravagant.
Jase was employed as the goalkeeper coach for Tampa's newly established professional women's soccer team. He is in Tampa with a work visa for Manchester United. Cassie, a recent college graduate, is one of the starters.
Cassie and Jase became running buddies after bumping into each other one lovely morning. One cannot ignore the chemistry that forms between them as their friendship deepens! The drawback is that they have both consented to a no-fraternization policy, making it risky for their careers if they take it too far. They ultimately end up in a perilous situation as their connection deepens and those limits start to blur. What occurs if the truth comes to light?
One of those stories that brings a smile is Racing Heat. It quickly grabs your focus with the perfect mix of allure, gentle romance, and heartfelt tension. The understated intimacy between the characters is what truly stands out, especially how his unwavering support makes her feel grounded. It's about simply being there, even when words fall short, instead of grand displays. Their bond seems authentic, caring, and deeply satisfying due to that ongoing connection.
June 13, 2025
**Player/Coach**
"Racing Heat" is the delightful second book in The Forbidden Heat series! Cassie has always dreamed of playing soccer, and she’s finally living that dream as a forward starter for the Tampa Bay Heat, a fresh and exciting professional women's soccer team. Enter Jase, a retired goalie from Manchester United who is now coaching goalies with the Heat while on a work visa.
One lovely morning, Cassie and Jase bump into each other during their runs and quickly become running buddies. Their friendship blossoms, and it’s impossible to ignore the chemistry building between them! However, there’s a catch: they’ve both signed a no-fraternization policy, meaning crossing the line could jeopardize their careers. As their connection deepens, those lines start to get a little fuzzy, and before long, they find themselves in a risky situation. What will happen when the truth comes out?
This was my first book by this author, and let me tell you, it won’t be my last! She does a fantastic job of creating relatable characters and an engaging world. The slow-burn romance heats up into some steamy moments, but the story still moves at a fast pace that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. I loved the theme of found family and the way true friends support each other when it matters most, showing just how genuine and strong their connections really are. Grab a cozy spot and dive in—it's a fun read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Racing Heat" is the delightful second book in The Forbidden Heat series! Cassie has always dreamed of playing soccer, and she’s finally living that dream as a forward starter for the Tampa Bay Heat, a fresh and exciting professional women's soccer team. Enter Jase, a retired goalie from Manchester United who is now coaching goalies with the Heat while on a work visa.
One lovely morning, Cassie and Jase bump into each other during their runs and quickly become running buddies. Their friendship blossoms, and it’s impossible to ignore the chemistry building between them! However, there’s a catch: they’ve both signed a no-fraternization policy, meaning crossing the line could jeopardize their careers. As their connection deepens, those lines start to get a little fuzzy, and before long, they find themselves in a risky situation. What will happen when the truth comes out?
This was my first book by this author, and let me tell you, it won’t be my last! She does a fantastic job of creating relatable characters and an engaging world. The slow-burn romance heats up into some steamy moments, but the story still moves at a fast pace that keeps you eagerly turning the pages. I loved the theme of found family and the way true friends support each other when it matters most, showing just how genuine and strong their connections really are. Grab a cozy spot and dive in—it's a fun read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2026
Cons right out of the gate. I was not a fan of the age gap and despite receiving a printed copy, I had half a dozen spelling errors. I didn’t keep track of them, but it was noticeable through the book. Cassie is referred to as a Center back at one point when she’s actually a right midfielder. She’s also referred to as the #8 (which is a position in addition to a player number) constantly, however the right mid on the line up sheet at the beginning of the book “Cassidy” is #30. I’m assuming from context that Cassie and Cassidy are the same person, but I don’t think she’s ever referred to as Cassidy Simmons.
Also, how long is this season going to be? These relationships are going through A LOT in the course of a couple of games. If my math is right the entire starting eleven will have a partner by the end of season 2.
Time for the positives. These two have a really sweet story. Despite being on the same team and hanging out somewhat regularly, they build their connection away from the team. It’s nice that they’re able to bond over running and not something that’s related to soccer. However, because of soccer they have similar interests and are able to fit their lives together. I also thought it was really sweet that they were able to go on real dates and learn about each other as people. They complimented each other's loneliness in a touching way that helped both of them fulfill a piece of themselves. I would have liked even more of how they dealt with the fraternization amendment and how they conducted themselves on future away games and practices..
Having read books 1, 2, and 4, I’m not sure how I’m feeling about books 3 and 5. I haven’t gotten a ton from Amelia as she’s known for being quiet, but Andie should be a good read if she’s next for book 5.
Also, how long is this season going to be? These relationships are going through A LOT in the course of a couple of games. If my math is right the entire starting eleven will have a partner by the end of season 2.
Time for the positives. These two have a really sweet story. Despite being on the same team and hanging out somewhat regularly, they build their connection away from the team. It’s nice that they’re able to bond over running and not something that’s related to soccer. However, because of soccer they have similar interests and are able to fit their lives together. I also thought it was really sweet that they were able to go on real dates and learn about each other as people. They complimented each other's loneliness in a touching way that helped both of them fulfill a piece of themselves. I would have liked even more of how they dealt with the fraternization amendment and how they conducted themselves on future away games and practices..
Having read books 1, 2, and 4, I’m not sure how I’m feeling about books 3 and 5. I haven’t gotten a ton from Amelia as she’s known for being quiet, but Andie should be a good read if she’s next for book 5.
June 21, 2025
Racing Heat by J.L. Stray is a high-octane romance that had me hooked from the opening chapters. As someone fortunate enough to read this ahead of release, I spent the entire time gripping my ebook and racing alongside these characters—cheering for their triumphs, empathizing with their struggles, and absolutely reveling in their growing connection.
J.L. Stray does an exceptional job of weaving together adrenaline-fueled action and emotional depth. The chemistry between the hero and heroine crackles with spark, banter, and fiery passion, but what stood out to me most was how well-earned their emotional payoff feels.
The pacing is impeccable—fast enough to mimic the rush of the race, yet anchored in moments of tenderness and real conversation. The characters are fully fleshed-out, confident yet vulnerable, and I loved watching them grow both on and off the track. Plus, the secondary cast adds richness and camaraderie, grounding an already engaging story in warmth and friendship.
If you're a fan of sports romance with top-tier romance writing, you absolutely should not miss Racing Heat. It’s thrilling, heartfelt, and emotionally satisfying—everything you want in a romance that gets your heart racing.
J.L. Stray does an exceptional job of weaving together adrenaline-fueled action and emotional depth. The chemistry between the hero and heroine crackles with spark, banter, and fiery passion, but what stood out to me most was how well-earned their emotional payoff feels.
The pacing is impeccable—fast enough to mimic the rush of the race, yet anchored in moments of tenderness and real conversation. The characters are fully fleshed-out, confident yet vulnerable, and I loved watching them grow both on and off the track. Plus, the secondary cast adds richness and camaraderie, grounding an already engaging story in warmth and friendship.
If you're a fan of sports romance with top-tier romance writing, you absolutely should not miss Racing Heat. It’s thrilling, heartfelt, and emotionally satisfying—everything you want in a romance that gets your heart racing.
June 18, 2025
Cassie is a player for the Tampa Bay Blaze. Jase is a former Man United player and now the goalie coach for Tampa. When they started running together it’s clear there’s an attraction between them but the team has a strict no fraternisation policy. But when they stay away from each other and a relationship develops, are they both prepared for it to blow up in their faces? What will happen when the truth comes out?
As a HUGE football fan I was so excited to read this but also apprehensive since I’ve had to struggle through books before where so many details were wrong, but I was pleasantly surprised at the accuracy in this book! I really enjoyed the way things unfolded between Jase and Cassie- it felt completely natural and well paced. The forbidden aspect made it so much more enjoyable too! And the hints at the story between a certain owner and player have me so excited for what’s to come from this series! Definitely recommend for fans of sports romance, forbidden romance and workplace romance!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
As a HUGE football fan I was so excited to read this but also apprehensive since I’ve had to struggle through books before where so many details were wrong, but I was pleasantly surprised at the accuracy in this book! I really enjoyed the way things unfolded between Jase and Cassie- it felt completely natural and well paced. The forbidden aspect made it so much more enjoyable too! And the hints at the story between a certain owner and player have me so excited for what’s to come from this series! Definitely recommend for fans of sports romance, forbidden romance and workplace romance!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
July 4, 2025
Woo!! I’m on a roll with these off-limits romances! I loved every second of this book, and so will so many other readers!
Racing Heat is a friends to lovers, workplace, age gap, forbidden, sports romance between Cassie and Jase.
I loved the fire Cassie has. She wants her dream of playing on the Tampa Bay Blaze soccer team so badly, and it really takes a toll on her mentally when she has to hide her relationship with Jase, which makes her just as happy as playing on the team does. I love that she never backs down from a challenge, and that she fights for Jase just as hard as she fights for her dream of playing soccer.
I completely get why Cassie fell so hard for Jase. He really does his best to keep things professional, but he also is so proud of her with every accomplishment she has. He has so much respect for her, is always trying to make sure that no matter what she’s safe in every way, and is always her number one fan. I absolutely loved him, and I think so many readers will love him too.
Thank you so much to @authorjlstray and @theauthor.agency for my arc! I will definitely be reading more from J.L. in the future.
Racing Heat is now available on all book vendors💗
Racing Heat is a friends to lovers, workplace, age gap, forbidden, sports romance between Cassie and Jase.
I loved the fire Cassie has. She wants her dream of playing on the Tampa Bay Blaze soccer team so badly, and it really takes a toll on her mentally when she has to hide her relationship with Jase, which makes her just as happy as playing on the team does. I love that she never backs down from a challenge, and that she fights for Jase just as hard as she fights for her dream of playing soccer.
I completely get why Cassie fell so hard for Jase. He really does his best to keep things professional, but he also is so proud of her with every accomplishment she has. He has so much respect for her, is always trying to make sure that no matter what she’s safe in every way, and is always her number one fan. I absolutely loved him, and I think so many readers will love him too.
Thank you so much to @authorjlstray and @theauthor.agency for my arc! I will definitely be reading more from J.L. in the future.
Racing Heat is now available on all book vendors💗
July 11, 2025
Jase and Cassie’s story completely swept me off my feet! Their relationship had this perfect blend of slow-burn tension, forbidden temptation, and deeply emotional moments that made my heart race. That scene where he lit candles for her in his room? Utterly swoon-worthy. It was soft, intimate, and filled with so much unspoken love.
Even with the complicated dynamic of him being the head coach and her a rising player their connection felt undeniable. The forbidden aspect only added to the intensity. Jase was the ultimate English alpha, strong, supportive, and so tender with Cassie, especially when it came to her soccer dreams. And Cassie was fierce, focused, and still let herself fall in love despite all the rules stacked against them.
Their journey from friends to lovers was filled with secret glances, stolen touches, and heart-pounding moments of will-they-won’t-they. And when they finally gave in? The spice was open door and deliciously worth the wait.
✨ Sports Romance
✨ Female Athlete
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Workplace Tension
✨ English Alpha Vibes
✨ Age Gap
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Open Door Spice
Even with the complicated dynamic of him being the head coach and her a rising player their connection felt undeniable. The forbidden aspect only added to the intensity. Jase was the ultimate English alpha, strong, supportive, and so tender with Cassie, especially when it came to her soccer dreams. And Cassie was fierce, focused, and still let herself fall in love despite all the rules stacked against them.
Their journey from friends to lovers was filled with secret glances, stolen touches, and heart-pounding moments of will-they-won’t-they. And when they finally gave in? The spice was open door and deliciously worth the wait.
✨ Sports Romance
✨ Female Athlete
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Workplace Tension
✨ English Alpha Vibes
✨ Age Gap
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Open Door Spice
June 20, 2025
The story follows FMC NWSL player Cassie and MMC, Jase, who is Coach at the Tampa Bay Blaze, and their journey in book 2 of the The Forbidden Heat Series.
I took this read on without having read the prior book - more of a mistake on my part - I can see there is potential connections to the first book but I didn't really feel I was missing too much information or felt lost as the story progressed, which is good - since it gave a feel that it can be read as a stand-alone despite being part of a series.
Maybe more as a perspective of someone from the UK, but I didn't feel overly drawn to the MMC or the overall allure of the character - maybe I just don't see the appeal of an English love interest (God forbid I ever enter the world of Bridgerton lol), I just envisioned a shameless-accented *insert UK football players name here*
The story itself is easy to follow, fairly laid back vibe and a slow-burner with building tension between main characters - it was an easy to read and somewhat a bit of a pallete cleanser or what I'd recommend as an in-between book.
I took this read on without having read the prior book - more of a mistake on my part - I can see there is potential connections to the first book but I didn't really feel I was missing too much information or felt lost as the story progressed, which is good - since it gave a feel that it can be read as a stand-alone despite being part of a series.
Maybe more as a perspective of someone from the UK, but I didn't feel overly drawn to the MMC or the overall allure of the character - maybe I just don't see the appeal of an English love interest (God forbid I ever enter the world of Bridgerton lol), I just envisioned a shameless-accented *insert UK football players name here*
The story itself is easy to follow, fairly laid back vibe and a slow-burner with building tension between main characters - it was an easy to read and somewhat a bit of a pallete cleanser or what I'd recommend as an in-between book.
June 18, 2025
Cassie is a midfielder on a professional women’s soccer team & Jase is the goalie coach. There is forbidden romance, found family, good banter, age gap & of course the elusive British accent.
I very much enjoyed this book. I haven’t read a soccer romance before, and I think the author did a great job of having details from the actual sport, along with connecting to the characters off the field. He’s a coach on the team, but not her direct coach, and he is aware of the potential of a power dynamic which I appreciate. Good spice, and I felt like it actually connected with the story, I didn't feel it was thrown in just to check a box.I enjoyed reading the friendship & emotional feelings on both the FMC & the MMC side. My only wish is I felt like the ending wrapped up a little too neatly, but I also love a HEA lol, so theres no pleasing me.
It is a stand-alone, but book 2 of a series. I read this first, and don't feel like I was missing the story. I have now started book 1 Striking Heat & excited to read more from this author!
Thanks to Author Agency & Stray for the ARC.
I very much enjoyed this book. I haven’t read a soccer romance before, and I think the author did a great job of having details from the actual sport, along with connecting to the characters off the field. He’s a coach on the team, but not her direct coach, and he is aware of the potential of a power dynamic which I appreciate. Good spice, and I felt like it actually connected with the story, I didn't feel it was thrown in just to check a box.I enjoyed reading the friendship & emotional feelings on both the FMC & the MMC side. My only wish is I felt like the ending wrapped up a little too neatly, but I also love a HEA lol, so theres no pleasing me.
It is a stand-alone, but book 2 of a series. I read this first, and don't feel like I was missing the story. I have now started book 1 Striking Heat & excited to read more from this author!
Thanks to Author Agency & Stray for the ARC.
June 22, 2025
Racing Heat - J.L Stray ( Sports Romance, Female Athlete, Soccer romance, Forbidden romance, Age Gap , Friends to lovers , Workplace romance, English Alpha )
Oh my gosh guys !!! Where do I even start to find the right words to describe how much I am just falling hook line and sinker in love with this fantastic series . The way In which Cassie and Jase just pulled me right into their story , all the steam and the humor and the angst and the witty banter . Not to mention the heartwarming and oh so heartbreaking moments. All the emotions I felt while reading ( smiling, laughing out loud, crying and cheering so freaking hard . I really did feel like I was on the craziest ride at the amusement park . Watching both develop a friendship, a friendship that started simply by becoming running buddies and then over time develop into so much more , really was so beautiful and emotional to experience. Racing Heat will definitely be going on my top reads for 2025
Oh my gosh guys !!! Where do I even start to find the right words to describe how much I am just falling hook line and sinker in love with this fantastic series . The way In which Cassie and Jase just pulled me right into their story , all the steam and the humor and the angst and the witty banter . Not to mention the heartwarming and oh so heartbreaking moments. All the emotions I felt while reading ( smiling, laughing out loud, crying and cheering so freaking hard . I really did feel like I was on the craziest ride at the amusement park . Watching both develop a friendship, a friendship that started simply by becoming running buddies and then over time develop into so much more , really was so beautiful and emotional to experience. Racing Heat will definitely be going on my top reads for 2025
June 12, 2025
This is kinda insta-love, coach/player and age gap.
Tampa has a new professional women’s soccer team and they hired Jase as the Goalie coach. He is in Tampa on a work visa from Manchester United. Cassie is one of the starters and fresh out of college.
Cassie & Jase run into each other while she is out for a run. They spark a kind of friendship with attraction situation. Both know that they signed a no -fraternization policy and that if they give into the attraction there can be serious consequences.
I rated this 3.5 and rounded up because I really liked the characters and the tension. It started out well and they definitely had some great tension and spice throughout. I just felt like the relationship didn’t really develop beyond the spice.
Tampa has a new professional women’s soccer team and they hired Jase as the Goalie coach. He is in Tampa on a work visa from Manchester United. Cassie is one of the starters and fresh out of college.
Cassie & Jase run into each other while she is out for a run. They spark a kind of friendship with attraction situation. Both know that they signed a no -fraternization policy and that if they give into the attraction there can be serious consequences.
I rated this 3.5 and rounded up because I really liked the characters and the tension. It started out well and they definitely had some great tension and spice throughout. I just felt like the relationship didn’t really develop beyond the spice.
June 19, 2025
I love a good sports romance and this one was unique because it followed a female athlete. Cassie is living her dream of being a professional soccer player for the Tampa Bay Heat. One day she runs into the goalie coach, Jase who is a retired goalie from Manchester. They form a friendship and begin running together often. Their friendship starts to give way to stronger feelings but they both signed a no-fraternization policy. Will they risk it all for love?
I really enjoyed this slow burn romance. The story of friendship with the secondary characters was also great! I would definitely recommend this book for sports romance lovers!
I really enjoyed this slow burn romance. The story of friendship with the secondary characters was also great! I would definitely recommend this book for sports romance lovers!
June 19, 2025
5/5 ⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️
WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THE BOOK ;
⚽️Sports Romance
🔥Female Athlete
⚽️Forbidden Romance
🔥Workplace Romance
⚽️English Alpha
🔥Age Gap
⚽️Friends to Lovers
🔥Open Door Spice
“He’s everything I never knew I needed, but he’s also the one person I can’t have.”
REVIEW ;
-I loved everything about this book! I did not want it to end, I need more! It’s rare you read a book with a female athlete (or maybe I haven’t come across many) I loved the mini obstacle Cassie & Jase had to overcome. Definitely recommend!
3.5/5 🌶️
WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THE BOOK ;
⚽️Sports Romance
🔥Female Athlete
⚽️Forbidden Romance
🔥Workplace Romance
⚽️English Alpha
🔥Age Gap
⚽️Friends to Lovers
🔥Open Door Spice
“He’s everything I never knew I needed, but he’s also the one person I can’t have.”
REVIEW ;
-I loved everything about this book! I did not want it to end, I need more! It’s rare you read a book with a female athlete (or maybe I haven’t come across many) I loved the mini obstacle Cassie & Jase had to overcome. Definitely recommend!
June 24, 2025
This book is the 2nd in the Forbidden Heat series. This is about a female soccer star and the goalie coach on her team.
This story started out great but then became a fast read. The spice is good, but the scenes felt few and far between which is fine, but I just couldn't get into the story.
The story included a lot of the side characters and not enough of the main characters for me. 3.5⭐
⚽️ Sports Romance
🔥 Female Athlete
⚽️ Forbidden romance
🔥 Workplace Romance
⚽️ English Alpha
🔥 Age Gap
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
🔥 Open Door Spice
This story started out great but then became a fast read. The spice is good, but the scenes felt few and far between which is fine, but I just couldn't get into the story.
The story included a lot of the side characters and not enough of the main characters for me. 3.5⭐
⚽️ Sports Romance
🔥 Female Athlete
⚽️ Forbidden romance
🔥 Workplace Romance
⚽️ English Alpha
🔥 Age Gap
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
🔥 Open Door Spice
June 10, 2025
Racing Heat is one of those stories that just makes you smile. With its perfect mix of charm, light romance, and emotional tension, it draws you in effortlessly. What stands out most is the quiet intimacy between the characters—especially the way she feels grounded through his unwavering support. It’s not about grand gestures, but about simply being there, even when words fall short. That steady bond makes their connection feel real, tender, and deeply satisfying.
June 19, 2025
Very cute book!!! I loved Jace and how much he was willing to do for Cassie. He took her side always and stood up for her when it was needed! Jace really just wanted be around Cassie all the time, which is adorable. And the sneaking around made it that much more exciting. Yes the story is predictable but it was still a very cute read nonetheless. I’m really hoping the next book is August and Hendrix!
June 19, 2025
I enjoy books that bring women’s sports into focus. Racing Heat has Jase, the goalkeeper coach, falling for someone on the team, Cassie.
I loved the buildup between these two, as it started as a friendship when they started running together. The lines start to blur which puts them both in a bad position with the no fraternization policy.
Cassie and Jase are sweet and cute together. And the story is enjoyable and fun.
I loved the buildup between these two, as it started as a friendship when they started running together. The lines start to blur which puts them both in a bad position with the no fraternization policy.
Cassie and Jase are sweet and cute together. And the story is enjoyable and fun.
June 19, 2025
This was a great slow burn with lots of friendships, spice, laughter, found family and much more. I enjoyed how the story progressed and how these two came together and how the twists and turns really threw me and had me hoping for goodness. The ending was so good and I loved it
June 19, 2025
Just could not get into this book. Found it boring and couldn’t finish.
June 27, 2025
This is an amazing book. It was so well written. The romance is amazing. The steamy scenes were great and added a lot to the book. Highly recommend
July 3, 2025
I don't know where I have been this whole time, but anyone who loves a spicy sports romance with surprise emotion you didn't think you would feel would love this book.
June 28, 2025
JL Stray does a great job mixing fast-paced soccer action with a sweet and steamy love story. The characters are easy to connect with, and the plot keeps you turning the pages. It’s a fun and enjoyable read for anyone who loves soccer and romance.
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