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Balance
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June 25, 2025I chose to DNF this book, simply because I'm super busy rn but I'm 100% going to pick it up when i have the time !!
🌷┇ ೀ୭ 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝
this is an interesting cover but its a formula 1 romance which is something new so why not !!!
Thank you LoveNotes PR for the ARC copy of this <3
🌷┇ ೀ୭ 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝
this is an interesting cover but its a formula 1 romance which is something new so why not !!!
Thank you LoveNotes PR for the ARC copy of this <3
June 25, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more. I devoured it in less than 24hrs as I couldn’t put it down.
This rivals to lovers romance delivers across the board! Good plot? Yes! Plenty of spice? Yes! Banter? Amazing! Lovable characters? Absolutely!!! Felix and Toni captured my heart with their story.
After getting a glimpse of them in Fuse, I was looking foward to this book. Felix, our overachieving Legacy team principal, swept me off my feet. From his words to his actions towards Toni, he was sweet, caring and downright filthy at time and I was here for it all! I loved how he was able to find himself and rebuild his relationship with his children throughout this story.
Toni was one special woman! The newbie Empress team principal has the weight of the Formula 1 world on her shoulders. You get to see her be a total boss babe and you also get to see her be human.
Seeing these two’s relationship evolve from rivals to lovers was so good. Their connection was solid, their chemistry was hot and you have to mention their banter! Their emails were the best!
I absolutely recommend this book!
I would like to thank Samantha M. Thomas and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read and review Balance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more. I devoured it in less than 24hrs as I couldn’t put it down.
This rivals to lovers romance delivers across the board! Good plot? Yes! Plenty of spice? Yes! Banter? Amazing! Lovable characters? Absolutely!!! Felix and Toni captured my heart with their story.
After getting a glimpse of them in Fuse, I was looking foward to this book. Felix, our overachieving Legacy team principal, swept me off my feet. From his words to his actions towards Toni, he was sweet, caring and downright filthy at time and I was here for it all! I loved how he was able to find himself and rebuild his relationship with his children throughout this story.
Toni was one special woman! The newbie Empress team principal has the weight of the Formula 1 world on her shoulders. You get to see her be a total boss babe and you also get to see her be human.
Seeing these two’s relationship evolve from rivals to lovers was so good. Their connection was solid, their chemistry was hot and you have to mention their banter! Their emails were the best!
I absolutely recommend this book!
I would like to thank Samantha M. Thomas and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read and review Balance.
June 29, 2025
Formula 1 books are a hit or miss for me, honestly. I actually liked this one.
Toni is the first woman to lead a Formula 1 team, which is basically a male-dominated field. So we see many of the struggles she faces on a daily basis: be it discredit from journalists or even from fellow professionals.
Felix, on the other hand, is a "dinosaur" in the sport. At 48 years old, Formula 1 is in his blood, and he is one of the best at what he does. We also follow a father who tries to improve his relationship with his adult children after some mistakes in the past.
The spicy scenes between them are VERY good 🔥🔥
The email exchange and the transcription of the interviews were also a good detail.
It is an easy book to read. There were some things that I didn't like, because I thought they didn't make much sense, but overall it was good.
Toni is the first woman to lead a Formula 1 team, which is basically a male-dominated field. So we see many of the struggles she faces on a daily basis: be it discredit from journalists or even from fellow professionals.
Felix, on the other hand, is a "dinosaur" in the sport. At 48 years old, Formula 1 is in his blood, and he is one of the best at what he does. We also follow a father who tries to improve his relationship with his adult children after some mistakes in the past.
The spicy scenes between them are VERY good 🔥🔥
The email exchange and the transcription of the interviews were also a good detail.
It is an easy book to read. There were some things that I didn't like, because I thought they didn't make much sense, but overall it was good.
June 30, 2025
Toni is the new team principal for Empress and the first female in that position. Felix is the team principal for Legacy and has been in the business for many years. They are drawn to each other but being on different teams and their age gap, they do nothing about it. Until Felix offers to mentor her and help her out during her first year. As they become closer, the sparks fly. They keep it a secret but those close to them realize something is going on. A rival principal, is doing all he can to make Felix's life terrible, he thinks Felix took his job years ago . Toni is dealing with a controlling ex that won't leave her alone. What will happen when everything collides and secrets are revealed?
September 10, 2025
Full transparency, in the first 10-15% of this book I wasn’t sure if I would be able to finish it. I don’t know if it was the factor of being slow moving, or if I just wasn’t in the mood for this genre at the time. However, I powered though and once I got 20% in, I was sucked into the sneaking around and reading about both of these characters get a second chance at love.
This was my first F1 romance, and while it wasn’t what I’d been expecting, I absolutely loved this story. Toni’s hesitation to try something new due to her past with a dangerous relationship was well written, as well as Felix’s struggling relationship with his kids. I loved how easily Toni was brought into Felix’s family with the way they absolutely fell in love with her and called Felix out on his feelings before he was ready to admit them.
To keep this spoiler free, I’ll just say the ending was a bravo moment to the author. Toni was able to defend herself in a very strong and yet not over done way. The ending to this book is heartwarming and encouraging that life gets complicated and messy but there is always a way through.
This was my first F1 romance, and while it wasn’t what I’d been expecting, I absolutely loved this story. Toni’s hesitation to try something new due to her past with a dangerous relationship was well written, as well as Felix’s struggling relationship with his kids. I loved how easily Toni was brought into Felix’s family with the way they absolutely fell in love with her and called Felix out on his feelings before he was ready to admit them.
To keep this spoiler free, I’ll just say the ending was a bravo moment to the author. Toni was able to defend herself in a very strong and yet not over done way. The ending to this book is heartwarming and encouraging that life gets complicated and messy but there is always a way through.
June 14, 2025
I cannot get enough of this book. To say Felix is everything is an understatement. He has gone through hell and back and has only come out stronger. He is an amazing friend to his ex-wife and wants nothing more than a better relationship with his kids. Toni is a new team principal fighting against a male dominant field at every turn and trying to just get a handle on things. When Felix offers to teach her balance everything changes. Toni is the role model that every young girl needs, and Felix is the man that learns what it's like to love a strong women that doesn't need to he protected but to be supported. As always Samantha nocked it out of the park with this book!
July 1, 2025
Imagine the roar of F1 engines paired with the whisper of forbidden glances—Balance is a high-octane romance that delivers more than just adrenaline. It throws you into the charged dynamic between Felix, a seasoned and stoic 58-year-old team principal, and Antoinette (“Toni”), a sharp, no-nonsense 35-year-old rising rival with a steel spine and a haunted heart of her own. The moment Felix succumbs to his attraction and offers to “mentor” Toni in finding work-life balance, everything changes.
What makes this book shine is how it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of relationships—power dynamics, age gaps, trust, past trauma, and family. It handles it all with nuance, balancing (pun very much intended) raw emotion with the pulse of an F1 race day. Every sneaky rendezvous feels like its own finish line.
Felix’s silver-fox swagger comes with a mouth that needs a warning label, and it completely works. His filthy dialogue is the kind that has you fanning yourself one page and bookmarking the next. It’s raw, sharp, and somehow still oozing charm—like he’s shifting gears between dominance and vulnerability with the precision of an F1 champion.
And the spice? 🔥
Balance doesn’t just deliver heat—it practically smolders off the page. Every sneaky hallway kiss, every tension-filled moment that erupts into something much steamier… it’s toe-curling. The buildup is slow and delicious, but when the floodgates open—brace yourself. The scenes are intensely physical, but always grounded in character. The emotional stakes make the spice land that much harder.
This is a romance that doesn’t just flirt with danger, it dives headfirst into a depth neither Felix nor Toni expected. Beneath all the secrecy, tension, and wickedly spicy encounters, Balance becomes something far more profound. The story evolves into a magnetic exploration of trust, vulnerability, and what it means to let someone past the walls you swore would never come down.
Their connection starts off as strategy and sparks, but somewhere between the late-night calls and the stolen weekends, it turns into solace, healing, and—yes—a whole lot more than either of them imagined.
A huge thank you to Samantha M. Thomas and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
What makes this book shine is how it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of relationships—power dynamics, age gaps, trust, past trauma, and family. It handles it all with nuance, balancing (pun very much intended) raw emotion with the pulse of an F1 race day. Every sneaky rendezvous feels like its own finish line.
Felix’s silver-fox swagger comes with a mouth that needs a warning label, and it completely works. His filthy dialogue is the kind that has you fanning yourself one page and bookmarking the next. It’s raw, sharp, and somehow still oozing charm—like he’s shifting gears between dominance and vulnerability with the precision of an F1 champion.
And the spice? 🔥
Balance doesn’t just deliver heat—it practically smolders off the page. Every sneaky hallway kiss, every tension-filled moment that erupts into something much steamier… it’s toe-curling. The buildup is slow and delicious, but when the floodgates open—brace yourself. The scenes are intensely physical, but always grounded in character. The emotional stakes make the spice land that much harder.
This is a romance that doesn’t just flirt with danger, it dives headfirst into a depth neither Felix nor Toni expected. Beneath all the secrecy, tension, and wickedly spicy encounters, Balance becomes something far more profound. The story evolves into a magnetic exploration of trust, vulnerability, and what it means to let someone past the walls you swore would never come down.
Their connection starts off as strategy and sparks, but somewhere between the late-night calls and the stolen weekends, it turns into solace, healing, and—yes—a whole lot more than either of them imagined.
A huge thank you to Samantha M. Thomas and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
July 13, 2025
Rating: 4.75/5⭐️ Spice: 3.75/5🌶️
Tropes:
🏎️ Rivals to lovers
🏎️ F1 romance
🏎️ Age gap
🏎️ No third act break up
This book was exactly what I needed to get out of my physical/ebook reading slump! It pulled me in from the very beginning. If you’ve been reading this series you met Felix in Serendipity, and then we met Toni briefly in Fuse and now it’s their turn for a happily ever after.
This isn’t your typical F1 romance, we aren’t following a driver around to find his happily ever after, instead we are following 2 rival team principals while they navigate their feelings and how to move forward from their pasts. Felix is the team principal for Legacy and he’s made a name for himself throughout the years. Toni is a badass boss lady taking the male dominated sport by storm. She’s strong, fierce, smart but also real and vulnerable as well as extremely stubborn. Toni is all in and wants to prove herself and doesn’t delegate as she should. Felix offers to help mentor her. Through secret emails, meetings after races and practices to help destress from the race. Soon feelings are surfacing but doubt is also as well.
I loved this soo much! Felix was soo swoony I can’t get over it. He has a sharp mind but a dirtier mouth (in the best way possible). Felix has an amazing relationship with his ex-wife (mother of his kids) and the relationship with his children strengthens throughout the book. I loved watching Felix and Toni navigate their feelings for each other. It was sweet watching them go from mentor/mentee to dating. But the best thing about this book and their relationship is watching them help each other heal from their pasts, they have both been burned in the past by exes. The character development of both the characters is amazing especially since they both realize they deserve to be happy, deserve to be with each other, and deserve to live their lives.
The banter was absolutely fabulous. I love the flirty secret emails they would send each other. The chemistry was on fire, it was there from the very beginning, the pull towards each other and the connection. And the little bit of suspense in the book was really exciting. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it if you like rivals to lovers, age gap, badass boss lady, and swoony, dirty talking men this book is for you!
Tropes:
🏎️ Rivals to lovers
🏎️ F1 romance
🏎️ Age gap
🏎️ No third act break up
This book was exactly what I needed to get out of my physical/ebook reading slump! It pulled me in from the very beginning. If you’ve been reading this series you met Felix in Serendipity, and then we met Toni briefly in Fuse and now it’s their turn for a happily ever after.
This isn’t your typical F1 romance, we aren’t following a driver around to find his happily ever after, instead we are following 2 rival team principals while they navigate their feelings and how to move forward from their pasts. Felix is the team principal for Legacy and he’s made a name for himself throughout the years. Toni is a badass boss lady taking the male dominated sport by storm. She’s strong, fierce, smart but also real and vulnerable as well as extremely stubborn. Toni is all in and wants to prove herself and doesn’t delegate as she should. Felix offers to help mentor her. Through secret emails, meetings after races and practices to help destress from the race. Soon feelings are surfacing but doubt is also as well.
I loved this soo much! Felix was soo swoony I can’t get over it. He has a sharp mind but a dirtier mouth (in the best way possible). Felix has an amazing relationship with his ex-wife (mother of his kids) and the relationship with his children strengthens throughout the book. I loved watching Felix and Toni navigate their feelings for each other. It was sweet watching them go from mentor/mentee to dating. But the best thing about this book and their relationship is watching them help each other heal from their pasts, they have both been burned in the past by exes. The character development of both the characters is amazing especially since they both realize they deserve to be happy, deserve to be with each other, and deserve to live their lives.
The banter was absolutely fabulous. I love the flirty secret emails they would send each other. The chemistry was on fire, it was there from the very beginning, the pull towards each other and the connection. And the little bit of suspense in the book was really exciting. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it if you like rivals to lovers, age gap, badass boss lady, and swoony, dirty talking men this book is for you!
June 27, 2025
Balance is the third book in Thomas' Qualifiers of Love series. While the stories are interconnected, they can each be appreciated on their own. This age gap, sports romance features Antoinette (Toni) Bailey and Felix Karlsson.
Toni, a former Formula Two engineer is now a Formula One team principal working for Empress Racing. Felix is the team principal working for Legacy Racing. Toni knows of Felix, of course. He's been around for some time and he is excellent at what he does. He also happens to be very easy on the eyes. The two are competitors and yet from the moment Felix lays eyes on her, he is captivated. When he offers to share some of the lessons he has learned, and ways to balance it all, a door to something more cracks open and he is more than ready to walk through.
This is delightful story of two people who should be rivals quickly become lovers. I loved the characters. Felix, while coming off as abrasive in his leadership role, is kind and considerate, affectionate and attentive, when it comes to Toni. Toni, while new to a traditionally male-held role, has to deal with her job as well as some difficult, confrontational, and misogynistic rivals. Its a good thing she has Felix to help her unwind.
I really enjoyed this book. Felix is an amazing book boyfriend. I loved how loving and supportive he was of Toni, plus he has offers up some wicked dirty talk. The chemistry between the two characters is off the page. I also enjoyed the author's inclusion of Felix's ex-wife and his kids, offering Toni a found family of sorts. As if the romance aspect was not enough, the book also includes a little bit of mystery and action, acting as the cherry on top.
I definitely recommend checking this one out if you enjoy sports romances.
Toni, a former Formula Two engineer is now a Formula One team principal working for Empress Racing. Felix is the team principal working for Legacy Racing. Toni knows of Felix, of course. He's been around for some time and he is excellent at what he does. He also happens to be very easy on the eyes. The two are competitors and yet from the moment Felix lays eyes on her, he is captivated. When he offers to share some of the lessons he has learned, and ways to balance it all, a door to something more cracks open and he is more than ready to walk through.
This is delightful story of two people who should be rivals quickly become lovers. I loved the characters. Felix, while coming off as abrasive in his leadership role, is kind and considerate, affectionate and attentive, when it comes to Toni. Toni, while new to a traditionally male-held role, has to deal with her job as well as some difficult, confrontational, and misogynistic rivals. Its a good thing she has Felix to help her unwind.
I really enjoyed this book. Felix is an amazing book boyfriend. I loved how loving and supportive he was of Toni, plus he has offers up some wicked dirty talk. The chemistry between the two characters is off the page. I also enjoyed the author's inclusion of Felix's ex-wife and his kids, offering Toni a found family of sorts. As if the romance aspect was not enough, the book also includes a little bit of mystery and action, acting as the cherry on top.
I definitely recommend checking this one out if you enjoy sports romances.
July 2, 2025
If you’re looking for a book that delivers both emotional intensity and the adrenaline rush of Formula 1, Balance is your next must-read.
Set against the electric backdrop of F1 racing, this story dives deep into the lives of two fiercely driven individuals—Felix Karlsson, a seasoned racer whose life has revolved around the track, and Antoinette “Toni” Bailey, the bold, unflinching new Team Principal shaking up a male-dominated sport. Their dynamic? Nothing short of explosive.
The age gap between them adds another layer of tension—Felix is all rigid discipline and guarded legacy, while Toni is ambition, fire, and something to prove. Watching their guarded rivalry slowly unravel into reluctant respect and undeniable attraction was addictive. The rivals-to-lovers tension is palpable on every page, making their emotional and professional tug-of-war all the more captivating.
Toni is a standout character—flawed, resilient, and determined not to break under the pressure of leading Empress Racing. Felix is brooding and complicated, wrestling with the cost of his sacrifices. Their chemistry is white-hot, but what really elevates the story is the emotional depth behind their decisions and vulnerabilities. It’s not just about racing or romance—it’s about identity, legacy, and finding something worth risking it all for.
The Formula 1 setting feels authentic and immersive, and even if you’re not an F1 fan, you’ll be drawn in by the pulse-pounding world and the sharp, emotionally rich storytelling.
Set against the electric backdrop of F1 racing, this story dives deep into the lives of two fiercely driven individuals—Felix Karlsson, a seasoned racer whose life has revolved around the track, and Antoinette “Toni” Bailey, the bold, unflinching new Team Principal shaking up a male-dominated sport. Their dynamic? Nothing short of explosive.
The age gap between them adds another layer of tension—Felix is all rigid discipline and guarded legacy, while Toni is ambition, fire, and something to prove. Watching their guarded rivalry slowly unravel into reluctant respect and undeniable attraction was addictive. The rivals-to-lovers tension is palpable on every page, making their emotional and professional tug-of-war all the more captivating.
Toni is a standout character—flawed, resilient, and determined not to break under the pressure of leading Empress Racing. Felix is brooding and complicated, wrestling with the cost of his sacrifices. Their chemistry is white-hot, but what really elevates the story is the emotional depth behind their decisions and vulnerabilities. It’s not just about racing or romance—it’s about identity, legacy, and finding something worth risking it all for.
The Formula 1 setting feels authentic and immersive, and even if you’re not an F1 fan, you’ll be drawn in by the pulse-pounding world and the sharp, emotionally rich storytelling.
June 27, 2025
I love everything Samantha writes, and the Qualifiers of Love series is no exception. Now, to be honest, I missed the first book in the series, but I did read book two—so most of these characters were already familiar.
This third installment follows Toni, the new team principal—and the only woman to ever hold that title—as she steps into her first full year in the role. She often finds herself in the media spotlight, especially during team principal interviews, and every so often, Felix steps in to save the day. Even though they start out as rivals (and, honestly, kind of enemies), a friendship develops between them—one rooted in mentorship. Felix is quite a bit older and more experienced, and he helps Toni learn the importance of balancing work and life.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow, evolve, and be tested. The age gap added an interesting layer—they're at very different points in life, but still completely relatable. I absolutely loved everything about Felix and his family. I’ll admit, I wanted to shake him a few times over the whole secrecy thing—but I also understood where he was coming from, given his past.
There were a few twists I definitely didn’t see coming, and the ending had just the right amount of drama. Everything came together beautifully, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
This third installment follows Toni, the new team principal—and the only woman to ever hold that title—as she steps into her first full year in the role. She often finds herself in the media spotlight, especially during team principal interviews, and every so often, Felix steps in to save the day. Even though they start out as rivals (and, honestly, kind of enemies), a friendship develops between them—one rooted in mentorship. Felix is quite a bit older and more experienced, and he helps Toni learn the importance of balancing work and life.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow, evolve, and be tested. The age gap added an interesting layer—they're at very different points in life, but still completely relatable. I absolutely loved everything about Felix and his family. I’ll admit, I wanted to shake him a few times over the whole secrecy thing—but I also understood where he was coming from, given his past.
There were a few twists I definitely didn’t see coming, and the ending had just the right amount of drama. Everything came together beautifully, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
June 26, 2025
This is the third book 3 in the Qualifiers of Love series and boy it did not disappoint.
The tension that you feel between Toni and Felix is so palpable, the pull between them was on another level.
The beauty of this book is how out of the comfort zone this book takes the characters especially Felix. He has been burned bad in the past and is very guarded and does not trust easy. But along comes Toni who destroys everything he believes and shows him how much fun life can be if he lets his walls fall a little.
Being from rival F1 teams their relationship is really quite forbidden and frowned upon as people are going to think very suspiciously of them. But this is not the case, Felix wants to see Toni soar and will help in any way he can.
Sadly like in life there are always people out to get you and try to destroy you, your reputation and everything you know. But these two work through this so well and come out on top in the best way.
For any Formula 1 fans out there I highly recommend that you read this series. I can’t wait for book 4 it’s going to be so good.
The tension that you feel between Toni and Felix is so palpable, the pull between them was on another level.
The beauty of this book is how out of the comfort zone this book takes the characters especially Felix. He has been burned bad in the past and is very guarded and does not trust easy. But along comes Toni who destroys everything he believes and shows him how much fun life can be if he lets his walls fall a little.
Being from rival F1 teams their relationship is really quite forbidden and frowned upon as people are going to think very suspiciously of them. But this is not the case, Felix wants to see Toni soar and will help in any way he can.
Sadly like in life there are always people out to get you and try to destroy you, your reputation and everything you know. But these two work through this so well and come out on top in the best way.
For any Formula 1 fans out there I highly recommend that you read this series. I can’t wait for book 4 it’s going to be so good.
June 26, 2025
Loved Felix! Just the fact that he wears glasses, forget it, he won me over lol Toni is the team principal for Empress Racing and since she's a woman leading a team in what some would say "a man's world", the press & the pressure to be the best can wear down anyone. Felix, he is the team principal for Legacy Racing, he's been doing this job for a long time & I love that he gives credit where credit is due. He recognizes that Toni is really good at what she does even from the beginning. So even though he is attracted to her, she is the competition & completely off limits. But Felix decides to help Toni be able to separate work from personal life, since he knows it will drain her physically & emotionally if she doesn't take care of herself. This story is so good, their attraction from day 1, how they gave each other support. I also enjoyed the relationship between Toni & Felix's ex wife and kids: Steph, Emilie & Henrik. This series is soo good! If you're looking for some action, little bit of suspense & falling in love, this story is for you!
June 19, 2025
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Samantha for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 4.5/5⭐️
Spice: 1.5/5🌶️
What to expect when reading Balance ;
-Age Gap
-Rivals x Lovers
-Team Principals
-Formula 1
-Women in sports
This is book three of the Qualifiers of Love series! Okay this might be my favorite book of this series! Felix, like what a man!!!! He melted me every single time he called Toni “Darling”! I wasn’t sure what to expect of their story but it was perfection! It had the right amount of plot, spice and fun! I loved every single character we got to see expect two but you’ll have to read the story to figure out who they are lol
Side notes:
-doesn’t call her Toni
-darling
-Big sister warning lol
-Steph is a Queen!!!
Fav Quote:
•”Look at me darling. I need your eyes.”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases June 26th💛
#bookstagram #romance #review
First I would like to say a big thank you to Samantha for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 4.5/5⭐️
Spice: 1.5/5🌶️
What to expect when reading Balance ;
-Age Gap
-Rivals x Lovers
-Team Principals
-Formula 1
-Women in sports
This is book three of the Qualifiers of Love series! Okay this might be my favorite book of this series! Felix, like what a man!!!! He melted me every single time he called Toni “Darling”! I wasn’t sure what to expect of their story but it was perfection! It had the right amount of plot, spice and fun! I loved every single character we got to see expect two but you’ll have to read the story to figure out who they are lol
Side notes:
-doesn’t call her Toni
-darling
-Big sister warning lol
-Steph is a Queen!!!
Fav Quote:
•”Look at me darling. I need your eyes.”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases June 26th💛
#bookstagram #romance #review
June 24, 2025
It would be an understatement to say that Felix is everything. Despite all the hardships he has faced, he has only become stronger. He wants nothing more than a better relationship with his children and is a great friend to his ex-wife. Toni is a rookie team principal who is always battling a male-dominated field while attempting to just acquire control of the situation. Everything changes when Felix offers to teach her how to balance. Felix is the man who discovers what it's like to love a strong woman who doesn't want protection but rather support, and Toni is the role model that every young girl needs.
Every time Felix referred to Toni as "Darling," I melted! Their tale was flawless, even though I wasn't sure what to anticipate! It was just right in terms of narrative, flavor, and enjoyment!
Felix and Toni work together to manage the demands of their employment and misogynistic people while navigating the season and their relationships with others and each other.
Every time Felix referred to Toni as "Darling," I melted! Their tale was flawless, even though I wasn't sure what to anticipate! It was just right in terms of narrative, flavor, and enjoyment!
Felix and Toni work together to manage the demands of their employment and misogynistic people while navigating the season and their relationships with others and each other.
July 2, 2025
✨arc review✨
4🌟/5
This book was a nice surprise!
I loved the building of the relationship between the two main characters, i love the support that Felix gave to Toni, how he showed her she's worthy of love, attention and how he puts her first.
I also really liked how the author treated very serious subjects, like being a woman in an all man jobs, full of nepotism and malicious person, and being in an abusive relationship and how difficult it is for us woman to be safe. It's a reality that the justice sistem won't do anything most of the times if there isn't physical violence, until it's too late.
Felix and Toni relationship heals them both, Toni from her past with her ex, Felix with his relationship with his children.
This book touched really sensitive argument in a really well done way, the writing was on point and it gets HOT where it need to be.
Overall I'm really satisfied with this read and i really recommend it!
4🌟/5
This book was a nice surprise!
I loved the building of the relationship between the two main characters, i love the support that Felix gave to Toni, how he showed her she's worthy of love, attention and how he puts her first.
I also really liked how the author treated very serious subjects, like being a woman in an all man jobs, full of nepotism and malicious person, and being in an abusive relationship and how difficult it is for us woman to be safe. It's a reality that the justice sistem won't do anything most of the times if there isn't physical violence, until it's too late.
Felix and Toni relationship heals them both, Toni from her past with her ex, Felix with his relationship with his children.
This book touched really sensitive argument in a really well done way, the writing was on point and it gets HOT where it need to be.
Overall I'm really satisfied with this read and i really recommend it!
July 3, 2025
This was my first read by Samantha M. Thomas, and I’m already a fan! This isn’t your usual F1 romance because there are no drivers here. Instead, it follows the fiery, forbidden romance between two rival team principals, and it was such a fun twist.
Felix completely stole the show for me. He’s this legacy team principal with a sharp mind and a filthy mouth (in the best way). But what really made me love him was his growth especially his journey with his kids. And then there’s Toni. A total boss. She's the new Empress team principal with the whole F1 world watching her, and she handles it all like a queen. She's strong, smart, but also real and vulnerable.
Their dynamic? Amazing. The banter, the chemistry, the emails are absolute gold. I was hooked from start to finish.
Thank you Love Notes PR, and Samantha M. Thomas for providing me with this ARC and in exchange for an honest review!
Felix completely stole the show for me. He’s this legacy team principal with a sharp mind and a filthy mouth (in the best way). But what really made me love him was his growth especially his journey with his kids. And then there’s Toni. A total boss. She's the new Empress team principal with the whole F1 world watching her, and she handles it all like a queen. She's strong, smart, but also real and vulnerable.
Their dynamic? Amazing. The banter, the chemistry, the emails are absolute gold. I was hooked from start to finish.
Thank you Love Notes PR, and Samantha M. Thomas for providing me with this ARC and in exchange for an honest review!
June 26, 2025
📚🌶🌶
Balance is the third book in the Qualifiers Of Love series!! Felix and Toni are now my new favorite couple from Samantha M. Thomas. The age gap plus being rivals was the perfect way to go for them too!
Felix has been in the F1 raving world for a while now and knows the toll it can take on some people. He has had to make some sacrifices to get where he is now and unfortunately those sacrifices lead to a divorce and not really having a relationship with his kids. Then he gets to meet his rival team, Empress Racing, newest employee. Antoinette, Toni for short, has been told multiple times she is inexperienced and that Empress Racing is crazy to hire a female as an F1 Team Principal. The world of F1 has always been filled with egotistical men and Toni is here to prove them wrong. Felix is the most unlikely person to step up, but he does and provides a little guidance along the way.
Balance is the third book in the Qualifiers Of Love series!! Felix and Toni are now my new favorite couple from Samantha M. Thomas. The age gap plus being rivals was the perfect way to go for them too!
Felix has been in the F1 raving world for a while now and knows the toll it can take on some people. He has had to make some sacrifices to get where he is now and unfortunately those sacrifices lead to a divorce and not really having a relationship with his kids. Then he gets to meet his rival team, Empress Racing, newest employee. Antoinette, Toni for short, has been told multiple times she is inexperienced and that Empress Racing is crazy to hire a female as an F1 Team Principal. The world of F1 has always been filled with egotistical men and Toni is here to prove them wrong. Felix is the most unlikely person to step up, but he does and provides a little guidance along the way.
June 28, 2025
I really enjoyed Felix and Toni's story! I loved that they were both adult (older) characters and they were already settling/settled in their careers. I also loved how inevitable they felt. they always seemed destined to drift to each other, even when they were actively trying not to. I did like the suspense of who was causing Legacy's lackluster season and the twist reveals at the end. I also appreciated that while Felix was not totally celibate, when he and Toni were finally intimate in that way, it felt special. I liked the involvement of the previous couples in this story and they did provide a nice sounding board for both Toni and Felix.
I was worried about Steph's involvement. I wasn't sure if she was going to be a "nefarious" character but I really liked her supportive role for Felix.
overall, I really enjoyed this story.
I was worried about Steph's involvement. I wasn't sure if she was going to be a "nefarious" character but I really liked her supportive role for Felix.
overall, I really enjoyed this story.
June 13, 2025
ARC Review
Love this book. Thank you to the author for this opportunity.
I love that this book focuses on women empowerment, especially in male dominated fields. I love the main characters a lot.
Toni is a female team principal working hard to prove to the world that she belongs there, and she is there to stay.
Felix is a team principal and has been a team principal for years. He has made a lot of sacrifices to get there.
Together, Felix and Toni try to navigate through the season, their relationship with each other, and with others while trying to handle the pressures that come with their jobs and misogynistic people.
Tropes
F1
Age Gap
Females in Male dominated fields
Rivals to Lovers
Overall rating 4.7⭐️
Love this book. Thank you to the author for this opportunity.
I love that this book focuses on women empowerment, especially in male dominated fields. I love the main characters a lot.
Toni is a female team principal working hard to prove to the world that she belongs there, and she is there to stay.
Felix is a team principal and has been a team principal for years. He has made a lot of sacrifices to get there.
Together, Felix and Toni try to navigate through the season, their relationship with each other, and with others while trying to handle the pressures that come with their jobs and misogynistic people.
Tropes
F1
Age Gap
Females in Male dominated fields
Rivals to Lovers
Overall rating 4.7⭐️
June 22, 2025
I really loved everything about it. Felix totally stole the show for me, he had so much depth, and the way he changed during the story felt very real. At the beginning he was more closed off, but then he opened up and showed how caring and supportive he could be. Toni was super strong and independent, and I admired her a lot. She wasn’t just powerful, she also had moments of doubt that made her feel human. I liked how their dynamic was full of mutual respect. The way the book talked about strong women and men learning to support them without control is something I really appreciated. Thank you so much to the author and Love Notes PR for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
June 26, 2025
Both Felix and Antoinette are rivals on the F1 track but they both understand the joys and pain of working as team principal. As a newbie to the F1 world, Antoinette finds it difficult to find a balance in life while Felix has sacrificed too much over the past years, leaving with jut the glory of an illustrious career.
Despite the mutual attraction, they resist it for their respective reasons but in the end, resistance is futile. I loved how their relationship progressed from being cautious to being so deep in love to discovering that the other is more important than the trophy at stake.
Throughout the book, the pacing was interesting and there was just the right combination of sweetness and spice.
Despite the mutual attraction, they resist it for their respective reasons but in the end, resistance is futile. I loved how their relationship progressed from being cautious to being so deep in love to discovering that the other is more important than the trophy at stake.
Throughout the book, the pacing was interesting and there was just the right combination of sweetness and spice.
June 28, 2025
📕BOOK REVIEW📕
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Formula 1 team principal of Legacy and Antoinette ‘Toni’ is the new female boss of Empress. They started off as rivals, but quickly, Felix and Toni couldn’t help but become attached to each other.
This is my first book by the author, and I really enjoyed this one. Not only is a F1 romance, which I totally love, but it’s also got some pretty good romance in there.
Felix is 48, he’s got two kids and is friends with his ex-wife. He was just a tad bit grumpy, especially towards Toni, but she was a cheeky one. I loved how she literally brought him back to life. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
I enjoyed their banter, and I really did love all the F1 talk!! It was like you weren’t really reading a romance book.
Also, Felix can call me darling anytime.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Formula 1 team principal of Legacy and Antoinette ‘Toni’ is the new female boss of Empress. They started off as rivals, but quickly, Felix and Toni couldn’t help but become attached to each other.
This is my first book by the author, and I really enjoyed this one. Not only is a F1 romance, which I totally love, but it’s also got some pretty good romance in there.
Felix is 48, he’s got two kids and is friends with his ex-wife. He was just a tad bit grumpy, especially towards Toni, but she was a cheeky one. I loved how she literally brought him back to life. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
I enjoyed their banter, and I really did love all the F1 talk!! It was like you weren’t really reading a romance book.
Also, Felix can call me darling anytime.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
July 4, 2025
I think this is honestly just a case of this book wasn’t for me. I can’t pinpoint anything actually wrong, just didn’t hold my attention or really draw me in because of the subject matter. I do rate based on enjoyment and if it were that alone I would actually give this two stars but I can appreciate the hard work that was put into this as well as the knowledge or research into formula 1. It’s just me, I thought I would try out a new trope and unfortunately I don’t think it’s an area of romance I really enjoy.
Take my rating with a grain of salt because if you’re a F1 girlie this might be for you.
Take my rating with a grain of salt because if you’re a F1 girlie this might be for you.
July 3, 2025
I liked this book a lot. I haven't really read any formula 1 books, but this one was a really good one to get into it. It was a little slow going at first, but it did pick up once I got a few chapter in.
I am really glad I stayed though, because I love the buildup we get to see between Toni and Felix.
This book also touched some sensitive topics in the terms of a previous DV relationship and I think it was written very well.
Thank you to LoveNotesPR and Samantha Thomas for the ARC.
*Though I received the book as an ARC, I am leaving a free and honest review*
I am really glad I stayed though, because I love the buildup we get to see between Toni and Felix.
This book also touched some sensitive topics in the terms of a previous DV relationship and I think it was written very well.
Thank you to LoveNotesPR and Samantha Thomas for the ARC.
*Though I received the book as an ARC, I am leaving a free and honest review*
July 3, 2025
ARC Review – ★★★★☆
Balance is a smart, steamy, and emotionally satisfying addition to the Qualifiers of Love series. Felix and Toni’s age-gap, rivals-to-lovers romance is full of chemistry, heart, and just the right amount of tension. I loved seeing Felix’s softer side come out as their relationship deepened, and Toni’s strength and vulnerability made her an easy heroine to root for. The racing world backdrop, found family elements, and a touch of mystery added great depth. A strong, compelling read—and Felix is definitely book boyfriend material.
Balance is a smart, steamy, and emotionally satisfying addition to the Qualifiers of Love series. Felix and Toni’s age-gap, rivals-to-lovers romance is full of chemistry, heart, and just the right amount of tension. I loved seeing Felix’s softer side come out as their relationship deepened, and Toni’s strength and vulnerability made her an easy heroine to root for. The racing world backdrop, found family elements, and a touch of mystery added great depth. A strong, compelling read—and Felix is definitely book boyfriend material.
June 30, 2025
ARC Review
I’d been waiting for Toni and Felix’s story ever since Samantha teased it on social media and it was soooo good!!
I loved older main characters, the drama of F1 and two team principals trying to figure out a relationship, Felix getting closer with his own children, Toni coming to terms with herself and what her life could be. Just so good!
Thanks to Samantha M Thomas and Love Notes PR for the eARC.
I’d been waiting for Toni and Felix’s story ever since Samantha teased it on social media and it was soooo good!!
I loved older main characters, the drama of F1 and two team principals trying to figure out a relationship, Felix getting closer with his own children, Toni coming to terms with herself and what her life could be. Just so good!
Thanks to Samantha M Thomas and Love Notes PR for the eARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
If you like spice with age gaps … read this! So, so good! It works as a standalone book but it is the third book of a series. I love this because I rarely think to check if a book is from a series and I get it based on if I think it’s something I’d enjoy. Luckily, I read this one and loved it and I will be getting the first two books to read as well. Thank you to Samantha M. Thomas ( @samanthamthomasauthor) and ( @lovenotes.pr). For the ARC!
July 2, 2025
This was such a good book !
I read it thanks to LoveNotes PR and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! I love F1 but I don’t normally love F1 romance beacuse I don’t like the cliche Driver meets girls and they fall in love or she changes him for the better, when I saw that this book was about two TPs I was intrigued right away !
I now want to discover the whole series so I’m definitely going to read book 1&2 soon !
I read it thanks to LoveNotes PR and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! I love F1 but I don’t normally love F1 romance beacuse I don’t like the cliche Driver meets girls and they fall in love or she changes him for the better, when I saw that this book was about two TPs I was intrigued right away !
I now want to discover the whole series so I’m definitely going to read book 1&2 soon !
July 4, 2025
🏁⊹ ࣪ ˖🏎️ balance
Rivals to lovers in the paddock ? I’m in 😚
This is a woman world and characters like Toni prove it. SUCH A FIERCE PERSONALITY she has 🥵. The way she commands her job and being the first female to lead a Formula 1 team was such an inspiration (btw I’m an ignorant about Formula 1 so is there female leadership in it?). If not as I said characters like Toni inspire little and grow girls.
Sweet, silver fox Felix- what a maaaaaan!!! He was soooooo good, supportive and loving with Toni. He was a man trying to be a better version of himself every day.
Balance had the perfect balance between Toni and Felix's relationship. This is a story that caught my attention from the first line.
I’d like to thank Love Notes PR and Samantha for the eArc.
Rivals to lovers in the paddock ? I’m in 😚
This is a woman world and characters like Toni prove it. SUCH A FIERCE PERSONALITY she has 🥵. The way she commands her job and being the first female to lead a Formula 1 team was such an inspiration (btw I’m an ignorant about Formula 1 so is there female leadership in it?). If not as I said characters like Toni inspire little and grow girls.
Sweet, silver fox Felix- what a maaaaaan!!! He was soooooo good, supportive and loving with Toni. He was a man trying to be a better version of himself every day.
Balance had the perfect balance between Toni and Felix's relationship. This is a story that caught my attention from the first line.
I’d like to thank Love Notes PR and Samantha for the eArc.
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