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Get Me to the Starting Line
You’ve heard of a meet-cute, but what about a meet-crash?
Leah Harrison hates the idea of running. She hates letting her little sister down even more. But when the celebration of her sister’s engagement is a race, running becomes inevitable. With no clue where to start and unable to stomach the idea of asking for help, her only solution might be turning to the oversized goalie who recently crashed into her life. He may get under her skin, but he’s no match for this single mother’s fiery personality.
Julien Richard prefers solitude. Quiet and reserved, he’s kept people at arm’s length. It serves him well as he lives out his dream of being a professional goalie. That is, until he has a run-in with a woman holding her son and his world is turned upside down. He can’t get her out of his head. Maybe if he helps her achieve a goal she never thought possible, she’ll be able to break through his defences and see him for the man he is—and he has until the starting line to do it.
Opposites collide in this spicy, sporty, single-mom romantic comedy. The starting line awaits, what will it take to get there?
Leah Harrison hates the idea of running. She hates letting her little sister down even more. But when the celebration of her sister’s engagement is a race, running becomes inevitable. With no clue where to start and unable to stomach the idea of asking for help, her only solution might be turning to the oversized goalie who recently crashed into her life. He may get under her skin, but he’s no match for this single mother’s fiery personality.
Julien Richard prefers solitude. Quiet and reserved, he’s kept people at arm’s length. It serves him well as he lives out his dream of being a professional goalie. That is, until he has a run-in with a woman holding her son and his world is turned upside down. He can’t get her out of his head. Maybe if he helps her achieve a goal she never thought possible, she’ll be able to break through his defences and see him for the man he is—and he has until the starting line to do it.
Opposites collide in this spicy, sporty, single-mom romantic comedy. The starting line awaits, what will it take to get there?
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2025
16 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Sara Clement
4 books65 followersSara Clement is from a small town in Southern Ontario, Canada. Her career as a wedding and sports photographer allowed her the opportunity to interact with a variety of people from all walks of life and have an outlet to let her extroverted side thrive.
She can be found driving her three children to and from hockey all over the province for eight months of the year, running around her neighbourhood, and in races any time she can find a spare weekend. Sara and her husband enjoy travelling, with and without their kids, worldwide.
Becoming an author has been a lifelong dream, as she relied heavily on books for company while growing up. Her stories come from her inability to fall asleep without imagining all the fake scenarios that could result in a happily ever after.
She can be found driving her three children to and from hockey all over the province for eight months of the year, running around her neighbourhood, and in races any time she can find a spare weekend. Sara and her husband enjoy travelling, with and without their kids, worldwide.
Becoming an author has been a lifelong dream, as she relied heavily on books for company while growing up. Her stories come from her inability to fall asleep without imagining all the fake scenarios that could result in a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
April 26, 2025
sarah’s writing is so addictive i am so obsessed no notes chef’s kiss
ftc
ftc
April 25, 2025
ARC review 💕
Here’s the thing, it’s simple yet so good. Banter, humour, emotional back stories, spice 👀. This is a book about hockey and running. Not your typical “NHL” I’m a F boy that turns out to be this secret lover inside. But a misunderstood golden retriever walking green flag that is Julien Richard.
Not only is Julien a walking green flag and the absolute sweetest. He speaks French.. I’ve never thought French was so beautiful and 🥵. Omgosh !!!! I think majority of my highlights were just him speaking French.
Julien x Levi my heart could nottttttt. I’ve read books with single dad’s and thought it was sweet but maybe I need to read more with single moms because Omgosh seeing Julien continue to show up for Levi even when him and Leah weren’t on I couldn’t. When Levi called him Dada instant tears!!! And the Epilogue where he called him daddy after getting hit I couldn’t help but loose more tears 😭.
Leah’s growth in this book. Like don’t get me wrong Julien had growth but my girl LEAH. Went from a piece of shit ex baby daddy to almost dying in a car accident to running a HALF marathon, to finding confidence in who she was, to opening herself up to being completely loved. This girl got me running/walking again. I kid you not. While reading this book I did a 5k and a 3k and now I am motivated to working up to a 10k. Something about seeing the struggles she had to ask for help. I felt for her in ways I can’t describe.
Adam’s family … can they adopt me too!? Omgosh the way they took in Leah/Levi the same way they did with Paige melted my heart. To top it off Thomas telling Julien to not hurt Leah at the end 🥹🥹🥹🥹
Now Leah x Julien - the way Sara made them perfect for each other. I thought Paige and Adam were meant for each other and now reading this I can’t even decide who is better. I wish we could have got more of their love together that’s probably the only thing I would have changed about this book was a little more of their HEA. Their epilogue had me so giddy I couldn’t.
Anywayssssss thank-you so much Sara for having me be apart of your ARC squad I am completely in the world you have built and can’t wait for book 3. I am on the edge of my seat to hear who this boy will be.
Here’s the thing, it’s simple yet so good. Banter, humour, emotional back stories, spice 👀. This is a book about hockey and running. Not your typical “NHL” I’m a F boy that turns out to be this secret lover inside. But a misunderstood golden retriever walking green flag that is Julien Richard.
Not only is Julien a walking green flag and the absolute sweetest. He speaks French.. I’ve never thought French was so beautiful and 🥵. Omgosh !!!! I think majority of my highlights were just him speaking French.
Julien x Levi my heart could nottttttt. I’ve read books with single dad’s and thought it was sweet but maybe I need to read more with single moms because Omgosh seeing Julien continue to show up for Levi even when him and Leah weren’t on I couldn’t. When Levi called him Dada instant tears!!! And the Epilogue where he called him daddy after getting hit I couldn’t help but loose more tears 😭.
Leah’s growth in this book. Like don’t get me wrong Julien had growth but my girl LEAH. Went from a piece of shit ex baby daddy to almost dying in a car accident to running a HALF marathon, to finding confidence in who she was, to opening herself up to being completely loved. This girl got me running/walking again. I kid you not. While reading this book I did a 5k and a 3k and now I am motivated to working up to a 10k. Something about seeing the struggles she had to ask for help. I felt for her in ways I can’t describe.
Adam’s family … can they adopt me too!? Omgosh the way they took in Leah/Levi the same way they did with Paige melted my heart. To top it off Thomas telling Julien to not hurt Leah at the end 🥹🥹🥹🥹
Now Leah x Julien - the way Sara made them perfect for each other. I thought Paige and Adam were meant for each other and now reading this I can’t even decide who is better. I wish we could have got more of their love together that’s probably the only thing I would have changed about this book was a little more of their HEA. Their epilogue had me so giddy I couldn’t.
Anywayssssss thank-you so much Sara for having me be apart of your ARC squad I am completely in the world you have built and can’t wait for book 3. I am on the edge of my seat to hear who this boy will be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
This book is part 2 of SC Run, Love, Repeat series. I have to say, this brought back a lot of memories myself when I started running for the first time. There are some laughable moments when reading this based on running terms because it’s true. Julien and Leah’s story is a very cute story and extremely relatable, frankly more relatable than the first book of the series. Even if you’re not a runner, I recommend reading this! SC writing is great and it was an enjoyable read!
A big thank you as I received this ebook as an ARC for an honest review!
A big thank you as I received this ebook as an ARC for an honest review!
May 6, 2025
Get me to the starting line ARC review!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️WOW.
YES. Stop what you are doing right now and go grab this book! This is the second book in the Love,Run Repeat series by Sarah Clement and it was fantastic. The writing is witty, fun and engaging! The pages are FILLED with emotions and I was pulled in as soon as the first page. Leah (FMC) is an older sister who has a hard time asking for help and boy did I feel seen (as an older sister as well ). When I wasn’t tearing up at the beautiful way these sisters love and support each other I was cracking up with the rest of the witty and comical writing!
Sara has a way of telling us a story of a single mom struggling to live for herself after so much struggle and heartbreak that makes you want to put on your running shoes and join Leah in her fight for herself.
One of my favorite quotes happens right before she goes for her first big race ““You can do this,” she whispers. Her arms tighten, and I let my little sister comfort me. My skin itches, uncomfortable with the role reversal, but I let her. I let her be my rock instead of the other way around. Am I too heavy for her to bear?” Quickly followed by this revelation. “Each of my friends is cheering for me and I realize I was never doing this alone. I couldn’t have done this alone. I needed these people to help me cross that finish line. I needed them to even get me to the starting line. But they don’t need me. A sob heaves through my body as I crash into Paige’s open arms. She doesn’t need me. She wants me. And that’s so much better.” Needless to say I was bawling.
To add onto an already fantastic book we have the romance element and AGAIN Sara delivered. We have Julien (MMC) who is our stoic goalie for the NHL whales team! ~go whales!🐳~. Dealing with his own life problems he joins Leah on daily run and can’t help but develop feeling for the hardworking stubborn single mom! When they weren’t butting heads he was sweet talking her in French and queue the swooning! He’s pulling out lines like ““Mon rêve, l’amour de ma vie,” which translates to “my dream, the love of my life”!!!! Anyway with out spilling too much i HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series and this author!! I can’t wait to read what’s next for this series! 10/10 will recommend!!! XOXO
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️WOW.
YES. Stop what you are doing right now and go grab this book! This is the second book in the Love,Run Repeat series by Sarah Clement and it was fantastic. The writing is witty, fun and engaging! The pages are FILLED with emotions and I was pulled in as soon as the first page. Leah (FMC) is an older sister who has a hard time asking for help and boy did I feel seen (as an older sister as well ). When I wasn’t tearing up at the beautiful way these sisters love and support each other I was cracking up with the rest of the witty and comical writing!
Sara has a way of telling us a story of a single mom struggling to live for herself after so much struggle and heartbreak that makes you want to put on your running shoes and join Leah in her fight for herself.
One of my favorite quotes happens right before she goes for her first big race ““You can do this,” she whispers. Her arms tighten, and I let my little sister comfort me. My skin itches, uncomfortable with the role reversal, but I let her. I let her be my rock instead of the other way around. Am I too heavy for her to bear?” Quickly followed by this revelation. “Each of my friends is cheering for me and I realize I was never doing this alone. I couldn’t have done this alone. I needed these people to help me cross that finish line. I needed them to even get me to the starting line. But they don’t need me. A sob heaves through my body as I crash into Paige’s open arms. She doesn’t need me. She wants me. And that’s so much better.” Needless to say I was bawling.
To add onto an already fantastic book we have the romance element and AGAIN Sara delivered. We have Julien (MMC) who is our stoic goalie for the NHL whales team! ~go whales!🐳~. Dealing with his own life problems he joins Leah on daily run and can’t help but develop feeling for the hardworking stubborn single mom! When they weren’t butting heads he was sweet talking her in French and queue the swooning! He’s pulling out lines like ““Mon rêve, l’amour de ma vie,” which translates to “my dream, the love of my life”!!!! Anyway with out spilling too much i HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series and this author!! I can’t wait to read what’s next for this series! 10/10 will recommend!!! XOXO
May 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
"it's not that you can't keep going, it's that you haven't proved to yourself you can yet."
Get Me To The Starting Line is the second book in the Run, Love, Repeat series. The are standalones but I highly recommend you read to first one to get the full experiencd and get to know the characters better.
We follow Leah, a single mom and badass bio engineer PhD and Julien, the quiet, reserved and socially anxious goalie for Vancouver's hockey team.
After meeting and not having the best first impressions of each other, they are forced to work together to plan Leah's sister's (and Julien's friend's) wedding related activities. Even though he seems to can't stand her, Julien makes it his mission to help Leah achieve a personnal goal.
Like the first book, this one has a big emphasis on running. This time from the perspective of a beginner who has never run a day in her life. I loved going on this physical, mental and emotionnal journey with Leah.
It's so different than any other sports romance I've read. We always read about professionnal or collegiate athletes and never about beginners. It was refreshing to read and I could relate so much to Leah and her struggles.
The romance was also beautiful. It was very slow burn but it made sense with the story and the characters and it was so worth it. There was still a loooooot of tension and good banter throughout the book.
There was very little I didn't like about this book, honestly. I loved all the cameos from the first book and all the side characters. I related to both Julien and Leah so much. I loved seeign both there work, Julien playing hockey and Leah with her research. I also loved Leah's son Levi, he was adorable and added a lot to the book.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
"it's not that you can't keep going, it's that you haven't proved to yourself you can yet."
Get Me To The Starting Line is the second book in the Run, Love, Repeat series. The are standalones but I highly recommend you read to first one to get the full experiencd and get to know the characters better.
We follow Leah, a single mom and badass bio engineer PhD and Julien, the quiet, reserved and socially anxious goalie for Vancouver's hockey team.
After meeting and not having the best first impressions of each other, they are forced to work together to plan Leah's sister's (and Julien's friend's) wedding related activities. Even though he seems to can't stand her, Julien makes it his mission to help Leah achieve a personnal goal.
Like the first book, this one has a big emphasis on running. This time from the perspective of a beginner who has never run a day in her life. I loved going on this physical, mental and emotionnal journey with Leah.
It's so different than any other sports romance I've read. We always read about professionnal or collegiate athletes and never about beginners. It was refreshing to read and I could relate so much to Leah and her struggles.
The romance was also beautiful. It was very slow burn but it made sense with the story and the characters and it was so worth it. There was still a loooooot of tension and good banter throughout the book.
There was very little I didn't like about this book, honestly. I loved all the cameos from the first book and all the side characters. I related to both Julien and Leah so much. I loved seeign both there work, Julien playing hockey and Leah with her research. I also loved Leah's son Levi, he was adorable and added a lot to the book.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
April 24, 2025
So lucky to have received an ARC, and boy this baby did not disappoint. Pulled me right out of my reading slump and I’m so sad it’s over!
The banter, tension, found family, spicy French talk 🥵, and the way the love story unfolded was perfection!
Might I say this is even better than the first one?!? As a runner I appreciated the storyline of a beginner runner and how big things are possible with small steps strung together. 🫶
Release date is May 5, 2025 - definitely worth a read!
The banter, tension, found family, spicy French talk 🥵, and the way the love story unfolded was perfection!
Might I say this is even better than the first one?!? As a runner I appreciated the storyline of a beginner runner and how big things are possible with small steps strung together. 🫶
Release date is May 5, 2025 - definitely worth a read!
September 30, 2025
I love the mom to runner vibe of this book and the motivation in running a half! I’m really hoping for more running books in this series!!
May 5, 2025
⭐4.75 I really liked this second book in the Run, Love, Repeat series by Sara Clement, a favourite indie author of mine! No surprises though, I loved the first one too! Her writing keeps me hooked, as do the characters, the plot, and the romance. I like that the stories revolve around running too, and I particularly enjoyed this one, as Leah, our FMC, hates running - I too am a fellow running-hater!
In this dual POV story we have:
Leah, a single mom and older sister who saddles herself with so much responsibility, and is utterly incapable of asking for or accepting help! She also had to fight for her life in book 1 after a car accident and is a woman in STEM (woo!). But she's fiercely protective and is always there for her loved ones. // Julien, a successful NHL goalie struggling to figure out whether to extend his career or not, stay in Vancouver or return home to Montreal, who prefers to avoid most people, loves to read (😍🤤), is self-conscious about his large size, and is slightly misunderstood. But he's encouraging, caring, and considerate. // ❤️ These two spark fiiiiire!❤️
Right away, the passion between these two is palpable, albeit, it begins as hatred haha. It's actually a perfect example of there always being two sides to a story. Leah is interpreting the situation in such a wildly different way than Julien. Whooey. And don't worry, the hatred and misunderstandings/ miscommunications continues for a bit. Julien means well, just doesn't always express it properly. "You did better than I thought." "Fuck you" 😅 Luckily, Leah, while she may get offended, is able to give him the benefit of the doubt too. "You don't look like you've seen many weight rooms." Poor Julien, he means well! haha (Impact vs. Intention comes at play a lot!!)
I really liked how this goes into how a non-runner can still achieve and complete a running goal. She gets help from knowledgeable people around her (reluctantly at first) and works slowly but surely at it. It's quite admirable, even though she gets pretty down on herself. "Running is a mental sport." Maybe if I had a Julien to run with me, I wouldn't have retired my running shoes... haha
Julien's possessiveness throughout ("Mine.") could potentially come off as aggressively toxic, but... nope, it doesn't, because it's Julien *swoon* He's sexy, and wow, the French talk, don't even get me started on how panty-melting that would be IRL! Sara wrote one hell of a great guy in Julien's character. The way he feeds and strategically fuels Leah's fire is impressive; and he uses it to her benefit (encourages her to keep running, for ex!). Their romance is a slower one, and there is a lot of heart protecting, but it's so sweet to read it play out.
Lastly, we have Levi. The cutest sounding kid who has his mom, aunt, Adam and his whole family, and Julien all wrapped around his finger. "Mon petit loup." frig he's cute, and the relationship he and Julien develop is so, so sweet.
👟 "You've trained and prepared for this. Your body is ready and knows what to do. Your mind is the thing holding you back."
"It's the same medal." 👟
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review. No worries there, I loved it! I'm excited for Isabel's story next!
In this dual POV story we have:
Leah, a single mom and older sister who saddles herself with so much responsibility, and is utterly incapable of asking for or accepting help! She also had to fight for her life in book 1 after a car accident and is a woman in STEM (woo!). But she's fiercely protective and is always there for her loved ones. // Julien, a successful NHL goalie struggling to figure out whether to extend his career or not, stay in Vancouver or return home to Montreal, who prefers to avoid most people, loves to read (😍🤤), is self-conscious about his large size, and is slightly misunderstood. But he's encouraging, caring, and considerate. // ❤️ These two spark fiiiiire!❤️
Right away, the passion between these two is palpable, albeit, it begins as hatred haha. It's actually a perfect example of there always being two sides to a story. Leah is interpreting the situation in such a wildly different way than Julien. Whooey. And don't worry, the hatred and misunderstandings/ miscommunications continues for a bit. Julien means well, just doesn't always express it properly. "You did better than I thought." "Fuck you" 😅 Luckily, Leah, while she may get offended, is able to give him the benefit of the doubt too. "You don't look like you've seen many weight rooms." Poor Julien, he means well! haha (Impact vs. Intention comes at play a lot!!)
I really liked how this goes into how a non-runner can still achieve and complete a running goal. She gets help from knowledgeable people around her (reluctantly at first) and works slowly but surely at it. It's quite admirable, even though she gets pretty down on herself. "Running is a mental sport." Maybe if I had a Julien to run with me, I wouldn't have retired my running shoes... haha
Julien's possessiveness throughout ("Mine.") could potentially come off as aggressively toxic, but... nope, it doesn't, because it's Julien *swoon* He's sexy, and wow, the French talk, don't even get me started on how panty-melting that would be IRL! Sara wrote one hell of a great guy in Julien's character. The way he feeds and strategically fuels Leah's fire is impressive; and he uses it to her benefit (encourages her to keep running, for ex!). Their romance is a slower one, and there is a lot of heart protecting, but it's so sweet to read it play out.
Lastly, we have Levi. The cutest sounding kid who has his mom, aunt, Adam and his whole family, and Julien all wrapped around his finger. "Mon petit loup." frig he's cute, and the relationship he and Julien develop is so, so sweet.
👟 "You've trained and prepared for this. Your body is ready and knows what to do. Your mind is the thing holding you back."
"It's the same medal." 👟
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review. No worries there, I loved it! I'm excited for Isabel's story next!
April 19, 2025
I was so lucky to read it early and was not shocked one bit that I loved it! Sara really knows how to write characters to root for. Leah had her moment in this book navigating life, motherhood, work, and love. Oh and don’t forget picking up running for the first time.
Julien is the special surprise we get this book. His character was one we knew only so much about from book 1. He was quiet and short with his answers, but he had befriended Paige so going in we knew he had to be good. Julien is a character I would describe as a mozzarella stick, hard exterior, warm gooey center.
Once Leah gets to the center of what makes Julien him, we get to see the softness that will make everyone fall in love with him.
I loved watching them fall in love through the acts of showing up. It was pure and realistic. The care towards each other (not at first) was so natural in their story as it unfolded.
Also the running! I began following Sara’s Instagram because I wanted a book about running and romance (all while making my own) and the Run, Love, Repeat series is that perfect pairing! The running in this book really took me back to all the years ago when I first started running and it felt impossible. Now 8 years later I’m about to run my first ultra marathon! For any runners this book will remind you how far you’ve come and the joy of the milestones you’ve met.
Things it has:
👟 annoyance (I wouldn’t call them enemies) to lovers
👟 forced proximity
👟 running that embodies the feelings every runner knows well from training to race day
👟 dual POV
👟 found/chosen family
Now please go and preorder it! Release date May 5th! And if you haven’t read See You At the Finish Line, welp looks like you’re going to be getting two books!
Julien is the special surprise we get this book. His character was one we knew only so much about from book 1. He was quiet and short with his answers, but he had befriended Paige so going in we knew he had to be good. Julien is a character I would describe as a mozzarella stick, hard exterior, warm gooey center.
Once Leah gets to the center of what makes Julien him, we get to see the softness that will make everyone fall in love with him.
I loved watching them fall in love through the acts of showing up. It was pure and realistic. The care towards each other (not at first) was so natural in their story as it unfolded.
Also the running! I began following Sara’s Instagram because I wanted a book about running and romance (all while making my own) and the Run, Love, Repeat series is that perfect pairing! The running in this book really took me back to all the years ago when I first started running and it felt impossible. Now 8 years later I’m about to run my first ultra marathon! For any runners this book will remind you how far you’ve come and the joy of the milestones you’ve met.
Things it has:
👟 annoyance (I wouldn’t call them enemies) to lovers
👟 forced proximity
👟 running that embodies the feelings every runner knows well from training to race day
👟 dual POV
👟 found/chosen family
Now please go and preorder it! Release date May 5th! And if you haven’t read See You At the Finish Line, welp looks like you’re going to be getting two books!
May 4, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Get Me to the Starting Line by @authorsaraclement
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Leah would do anything for her sister, even if that means running a half marathon. With no idea as to how to even start training for this, she turns to Julien, the groomsmen that she absolutely got off on the wrong foot with. While Julien fits in seamlessly with Leah and her son, he's an NHL goalie with no control where he will be traded to at the end of the season. They make a great team, but is it strong enough to overcome the hurdles thrown at them?
~~
I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC copy of this book! Sara is such a talented writer, and I am so hooked on this series. I really enjoyed getting to read about Leah and Julien’s story, while also getting so much of the couple from the previous book as well. I fell in love with Levi almost immediately, and the way that Julien instantly forms a bond with him was heart melting! I really related to Leah and, and the end of the book actually had me crying because I was so proud of her. This was a really inspiring book, and featured so much determination from the characters as they are all going through it. This book comes out on May 5th, and you need to run to read it!
Get Me to the Starting Line by @authorsaraclement
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Leah would do anything for her sister, even if that means running a half marathon. With no idea as to how to even start training for this, she turns to Julien, the groomsmen that she absolutely got off on the wrong foot with. While Julien fits in seamlessly with Leah and her son, he's an NHL goalie with no control where he will be traded to at the end of the season. They make a great team, but is it strong enough to overcome the hurdles thrown at them?
~~
I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC copy of this book! Sara is such a talented writer, and I am so hooked on this series. I really enjoyed getting to read about Leah and Julien’s story, while also getting so much of the couple from the previous book as well. I fell in love with Levi almost immediately, and the way that Julien instantly forms a bond with him was heart melting! I really related to Leah and, and the end of the book actually had me crying because I was so proud of her. This was a really inspiring book, and featured so much determination from the characters as they are all going through it. This book comes out on May 5th, and you need to run to read it!
May 1, 2025
This book is great; its fun it made me laugh, teary, giggle.
I love it when a sport romance book, actually includes, you know, *the sport*. In this case is two of them (running + hockey) which is even better.
Leah is a great FMC, I felt so related to her in many ways; she was so funny, strong smart and determined. Her journey with running was so great and related to her character development.
Julienn, there's nothing more to say other than he is perfect. If you want a single reason to read this book, him would be the one. When he speaks to Leah in french: 10/10. There's a scene (my favorite) I just loved, I will not spoiled it, but its a gift he gives Leah, you just have to read it.
Also, he is the sweetest and his backstory is really interesting.
You should totally read this book, but read 'See you at the finish line' first. Is the first in this series, and even when there are both interconnected stand alone, they're both great, and will make you enjoy this book even more.
**I recieved this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author Sarah Clement, for this copy.
I love it when a sport romance book, actually includes, you know, *the sport*. In this case is two of them (running + hockey) which is even better.
Leah is a great FMC, I felt so related to her in many ways; she was so funny, strong smart and determined. Her journey with running was so great and related to her character development.
Julienn, there's nothing more to say other than he is perfect. If you want a single reason to read this book, him would be the one. When he speaks to Leah in french: 10/10. There's a scene (my favorite) I just loved, I will not spoiled it, but its a gift he gives Leah, you just have to read it.
Also, he is the sweetest and his backstory is really interesting.
You should totally read this book, but read 'See you at the finish line' first. Is the first in this series, and even when there are both interconnected stand alone, they're both great, and will make you enjoy this book even more.
**I recieved this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author Sarah Clement, for this copy.
May 2, 2025
This book was so great for so many reasons!
1. I was lucky to get an advanced copy from the author. My first ARC ever! 🙌🏾
2. The author is Canadian, like me, and the story is based in a city that I’m currently visiting, Vancouver. 🇨🇦
3. This is the second book in the series and the FMC in this book, Leah, was one of my faves in that first book because of her sassy personality. So I was thrilled to read her story. ❤️
4. Julien 😍 my new book boyfriend. I’ve had a couple French boyfriends in my day and 😅 I get it.
5. I’m training for a short run (not a half marathon!) so I enjoyed reading about her journey. 🏃🏾♀️
6. There were many times I laughed out loud. 😂
7. And there was just enough spice to have me squirming in my seat. 🌶️ (I was reading the spiciest scene while sitting beside a woman on a plane doing a bible word search puzzle. 🤭)
This had all the things I needed for a great sassy-meets-broody trope. 💕
1. I was lucky to get an advanced copy from the author. My first ARC ever! 🙌🏾
2. The author is Canadian, like me, and the story is based in a city that I’m currently visiting, Vancouver. 🇨🇦
3. This is the second book in the series and the FMC in this book, Leah, was one of my faves in that first book because of her sassy personality. So I was thrilled to read her story. ❤️
4. Julien 😍 my new book boyfriend. I’ve had a couple French boyfriends in my day and 😅 I get it.
5. I’m training for a short run (not a half marathon!) so I enjoyed reading about her journey. 🏃🏾♀️
6. There were many times I laughed out loud. 😂
7. And there was just enough spice to have me squirming in my seat. 🌶️ (I was reading the spiciest scene while sitting beside a woman on a plane doing a bible word search puzzle. 🤭)
This had all the things I needed for a great sassy-meets-broody trope. 💕
May 4, 2025
I really really enjoyed this book! It truly just kept getting better and better as the book went on. Amazing plot, and build up, and that’s coming from someone who doesn’t usually enjoy slow burn but wanted to try something out of her comfort zone. I felt truly connected to these two characters, since my dad fell for my mom when she was single and raising my brother alone, before I was born. I loved how this unraveled beautifully from start to finish. The character development and healing the characters were both going through together and separately was beautiful to read about. If you’re a fan of slow burn, running/athletic, found family romances, this is for sure the book for you! Thank you Sara Clement for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review! I cant wait for the next book!
April 28, 2025
I was so excited to read this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. After reading See You At The Finish Line, I didn't think Sara would be able to top how much I absolutely adored the book. I've never been more wrong in my life.
Get Me To The Starting Line is hands down one of the best books I've read this year. I normally see characteristics of myself that I want to see in the FMC, but my god Leah had both the aspects I want to see, and don't want to see in myself in perfect tandem. I have never related to a main character this much in any book I've ever read, which was such a unique and refreshing experience. Julien is her perfect compliment in every way and watching them interact from beginning to end had me giggling along and internally screaming the whole book. I've never snorted before while reading a book, so thanks Sara for being the first person to cause that. My husband looked at me like I was insane.
The slow burn, the terrible first impressions, the trying to get under each other's skin, omg I cannot adequately put into words how much I freaking loved this book. I cannot wait to read Isabel's book and what I can only hope will be one heck of a redemption arc for a certain character.
Get Me To The Starting Line is hands down one of the best books I've read this year. I normally see characteristics of myself that I want to see in the FMC, but my god Leah had both the aspects I want to see, and don't want to see in myself in perfect tandem. I have never related to a main character this much in any book I've ever read, which was such a unique and refreshing experience. Julien is her perfect compliment in every way and watching them interact from beginning to end had me giggling along and internally screaming the whole book. I've never snorted before while reading a book, so thanks Sara for being the first person to cause that. My husband looked at me like I was insane.
The slow burn, the terrible first impressions, the trying to get under each other's skin, omg I cannot adequately put into words how much I freaking loved this book. I cannot wait to read Isabel's book and what I can only hope will be one heck of a redemption arc for a certain character.
May 6, 2025
Very fun! I love a broody hockey romance, and this did not disappoint. I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and I will admit that it took me a minute to get into it, but once I was in, I devoured it quickly. I especially loved the novice runner experience—it was so real and had me laughing.
Thoroughly enjoyed. 3.5 stars - rounded up to 4 on GoodReads.
Thoroughly enjoyed. 3.5 stars - rounded up to 4 on GoodReads.
April 20, 2025
Get me to the starting line by Sara Clement
Release Date: May 5th, 2025
This is the 2nd book in the Run, Love, Repeat series. Book 1 (See You at the Finish Line) was one of the few 5 star romances I read last year and book 2 did not disappoint! This book amazing and the main characters are perfection. I laughed, I cried, and I highlighted some pep talks for my own race.
You do not have to be a runner to enjoy this one. If you love amazing banter, a strong female lead, and a swoon worthy MMC this one is for you!!
I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest review.
Release Date: May 5th, 2025
This is the 2nd book in the Run, Love, Repeat series. Book 1 (See You at the Finish Line) was one of the few 5 star romances I read last year and book 2 did not disappoint! This book amazing and the main characters are perfection. I laughed, I cried, and I highlighted some pep talks for my own race.
You do not have to be a runner to enjoy this one. If you love amazing banter, a strong female lead, and a swoon worthy MMC this one is for you!!
I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2025
After LOVING See You at the Finish Line I couldn’t wait for Get Me to the Starting Line! Super lucky to have been sent an ARC copy from Sara and it DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Leah & Julien’s story is everything I wanted it to be! This book had me laughing out loud with the banter between characters and now I’m dying for the next book in this series that ranks at the top of my list of reads!
September 30, 2025
THIS BOOK GUYS
First and foremost, thank you so much to the lovely author Sara Clement for providing me an ARC of this book to read before the masses! 💗
Everything about this book was my vibe. The whole “getting off on the wrong foot and immediately disliking each other”, major exploration of anxiety and catastrophising from BOTH MC’s, and the best of all….this damn couple 🌶️
I was a fan of Leah in book 1, and now even more so after book 2! She had such great character development and genuine self reflection which I loved.
Julien speaking dirty French to Leah and she doesn’t even KNOW 🥵
I am firmly in this book now and loving it!! Their little runs together are so cute and even Julien’s interaction with Levi is adorable.
Overall people, run don’t walk to put this book immediately at the top of your TBR ✅✅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First and foremost, thank you so much to the lovely author Sara Clement for providing me an ARC of this book to read before the masses! 💗
Everything about this book was my vibe. The whole “getting off on the wrong foot and immediately disliking each other”, major exploration of anxiety and catastrophising from BOTH MC’s, and the best of all….this damn couple 🌶️
I was a fan of Leah in book 1, and now even more so after book 2! She had such great character development and genuine self reflection which I loved.
Julien speaking dirty French to Leah and she doesn’t even KNOW 🥵
I am firmly in this book now and loving it!! Their little runs together are so cute and even Julien’s interaction with Levi is adorable.
Overall people, run don’t walk to put this book immediately at the top of your TBR ✅✅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 4, 2025
This book was SO GOOD!! I love a hockey romance with a possessive MMC. Julien was so broody but so misunderstood. You think he’s a jackass but he just straight up never knows what to say, and often says it wrong. I’m still curious why he’s like this!! Is it that French is his first language??
Very slow burn! They spend a lot of time going back and forth as to whether they want to commit. We get a kiss earlier on and then they even LIVE together and there’s no funny business. I get that Leah is hesitant to become too committed if he may just get traded or move back to Montreal, but I wanted more in that aspect. However, the spice was SPICING. So well written 🌶️
✨ "You need to wear a jersey if you come to another game." "Okay, but I could have just bought a jersey. One of your players has the number twenty-four, that's my favourite —" "I think the fuck not," I growl. No way in hell I'm letting her wear Bartosh's number. Her anger rises. "Excuse me? I'll wear whatever the fuck I want.""No, you'll wear this,"✨
SWOON!! Why did I want him to take his jersey off mid-game though and throw it to her?? I also love his stretching and how he’s super aware everyone is watching him do 👀 those 👀 stretches.
I love that Julien in the beginning thinks of Levi as a shield / buffer. It’s so true. Like you have no clue what to talk about - it’s okay because you’ve got a cute toddler around. I loved his and Levi’s relationship so much. That he gives him the Nickname petite loup. And that Levi even tries to say it. And Levi calling him dada at the end. I 100% cried. I was surprised we didn’t actually get a scene where Julien babysat Levi. My ovaries wouldn’t be able to handle it, so prob for the best. He’s just so GOOD. And he’s always showing up for Leah and didn’t even need to be asked to help.
Leah’s internal dialogue about being a mom is so TRUE. All the not wanting to ask for help, and trying to manage / control things. Her protectiveness over Levi. How she doesn’t know what to do with herself if she’s not needed. I loved her growth in this too. Coming to grips with Paige relying on Adam now. Also the mental stamina to begin running. This book is essentially a how-to for running! It gives such clear descriptors of the fuel you need, realistic expectations for starting from scratch, that it’s not actually an inexpensive sport (helllooooo clothing and shoes), and the consequences of not stretching. Although not a bad day if she ended up having a 6’5” hockey player massage her legs on a park bench. I really love how much we saw into Leah’s career as a biomedical mechanical engineer. So cool reading about women in STEM. And that we got more background into her field and also learned about what went down with her shitty baby daddy.
I loved how much we still got to see of Paige and Adam!! And how Adam’s family essentially adopted Leah and Levi into their lives. And that they consider Levi to be their grandchild. And Thomas watching out for Leah 🥹
Im definitely going to steal some of Isabel’s sign ideas for when I cheer on my husband in his marathon for Ottawa Race Weekend!
This eBook was given as an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Next book is Isabel and Caleb right?
5⭐️🌶️3
Very slow burn! They spend a lot of time going back and forth as to whether they want to commit. We get a kiss earlier on and then they even LIVE together and there’s no funny business. I get that Leah is hesitant to become too committed if he may just get traded or move back to Montreal, but I wanted more in that aspect. However, the spice was SPICING. So well written 🌶️
✨ "You need to wear a jersey if you come to another game." "Okay, but I could have just bought a jersey. One of your players has the number twenty-four, that's my favourite —" "I think the fuck not," I growl. No way in hell I'm letting her wear Bartosh's number. Her anger rises. "Excuse me? I'll wear whatever the fuck I want.""No, you'll wear this,"✨
SWOON!! Why did I want him to take his jersey off mid-game though and throw it to her?? I also love his stretching and how he’s super aware everyone is watching him do 👀 those 👀 stretches.
I love that Julien in the beginning thinks of Levi as a shield / buffer. It’s so true. Like you have no clue what to talk about - it’s okay because you’ve got a cute toddler around. I loved his and Levi’s relationship so much. That he gives him the Nickname petite loup. And that Levi even tries to say it. And Levi calling him dada at the end. I 100% cried. I was surprised we didn’t actually get a scene where Julien babysat Levi. My ovaries wouldn’t be able to handle it, so prob for the best. He’s just so GOOD. And he’s always showing up for Leah and didn’t even need to be asked to help.
Leah’s internal dialogue about being a mom is so TRUE. All the not wanting to ask for help, and trying to manage / control things. Her protectiveness over Levi. How she doesn’t know what to do with herself if she’s not needed. I loved her growth in this too. Coming to grips with Paige relying on Adam now. Also the mental stamina to begin running. This book is essentially a how-to for running! It gives such clear descriptors of the fuel you need, realistic expectations for starting from scratch, that it’s not actually an inexpensive sport (helllooooo clothing and shoes), and the consequences of not stretching. Although not a bad day if she ended up having a 6’5” hockey player massage her legs on a park bench. I really love how much we saw into Leah’s career as a biomedical mechanical engineer. So cool reading about women in STEM. And that we got more background into her field and also learned about what went down with her shitty baby daddy.
I loved how much we still got to see of Paige and Adam!! And how Adam’s family essentially adopted Leah and Levi into their lives. And that they consider Levi to be their grandchild. And Thomas watching out for Leah 🥹
Im definitely going to steal some of Isabel’s sign ideas for when I cheer on my husband in his marathon for Ottawa Race Weekend!
This eBook was given as an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Next book is Isabel and Caleb right?
5⭐️🌶️3
April 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
A huge thank you to the author for allowing me early access to this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I ARC read the first book in this series as well & loved it too!
Leah and Julien meet at an engagement party for Leah’s sister, Paige. Leah is a type A, planner extraordinaire, biomedical engineer and Julien is a star NHL goalie. She is confident and outspoken, he is quiet and introspective. While working together to plan the bachelor/bachelor party for Paige & her fiancé, Adam, Julien recommends they include a race over the long weekend. That will be great for the bride and groom who are ultramarathoners’s but one problem: Leah isn’t a runner. The group agrees with Julien, so Leah straps on her shoes and gets to running.
This story was so witty and relatable and perfectly crafted. The banter between the two main characters was tough notch. I always love a sassy, insightful & well flowing dual POV and this one certainly delivers. Add in a single mom, enemies to lovers and touch her and die tropes and it’s a must read. The author even referenced the Bechdel test - a surefire way to make me love a book.
As a longtime runner who has struggled to get back into the sport as well as who understands the joy of training for and completing longer distance races, I soaked this one up. Her running analogies and references to it being a mental sport even more than a physical one are spot on. Any runner who even remotely likes romcoms, must to read this one.
My only critique and the cause of losing a half a star is that it felt like the story dragged a bit getting to the point in the final 25%. I adored both of the main characters and knew that it was going to work out, but it seemed like too many barriers and too many false starts unnecessarily complicated the storyline. That being said, absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read the third one in the series when it comes out later this year. Please remember to check back and download this one when it publishes on May 5th!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
A huge thank you to the author for allowing me early access to this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I ARC read the first book in this series as well & loved it too!
Leah and Julien meet at an engagement party for Leah’s sister, Paige. Leah is a type A, planner extraordinaire, biomedical engineer and Julien is a star NHL goalie. She is confident and outspoken, he is quiet and introspective. While working together to plan the bachelor/bachelor party for Paige & her fiancé, Adam, Julien recommends they include a race over the long weekend. That will be great for the bride and groom who are ultramarathoners’s but one problem: Leah isn’t a runner. The group agrees with Julien, so Leah straps on her shoes and gets to running.
This story was so witty and relatable and perfectly crafted. The banter between the two main characters was tough notch. I always love a sassy, insightful & well flowing dual POV and this one certainly delivers. Add in a single mom, enemies to lovers and touch her and die tropes and it’s a must read. The author even referenced the Bechdel test - a surefire way to make me love a book.
As a longtime runner who has struggled to get back into the sport as well as who understands the joy of training for and completing longer distance races, I soaked this one up. Her running analogies and references to it being a mental sport even more than a physical one are spot on. Any runner who even remotely likes romcoms, must to read this one.
My only critique and the cause of losing a half a star is that it felt like the story dragged a bit getting to the point in the final 25%. I adored both of the main characters and knew that it was going to work out, but it seemed like too many barriers and too many false starts unnecessarily complicated the storyline. That being said, absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read the third one in the series when it comes out later this year. Please remember to check back and download this one when it publishes on May 5th!
April 21, 2025
This is the second book in the 'Run Love Repeat' series and I was beyond thrilled to be given an ARC. I loved 'See You at the Finish Line' and have been so excited about Paige's sister, Leah's, story.
I read it in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I read the first few chapters the night it came in and spent my Saturday inhaling Leah and Julien, breaking my bedtime rule both nights (staying up late to read!)
This whole story had my heart aching and relearning what the term 'slow burn' meant.
I will not spoil anything, or go too much into all the why's of all the things. But... I have to say something because this was just so good (also, bit of a crummy review if I didn't!?)
Initially I struggled with Leah, and I realised a few chapters in that the reason was maybe because there was too much similarity there for me. Her inner thoughts and the way she talked to herself (and about herself) was a bit too familiar - and once I realised that, I totally got her.
And Julien! This author is spoiling us with a shy, French speaking, tree of a man who is the kindest, sweetest thing. I loved Julien - his quietness, his big heart, his whole communication style. He fit right into what Leah never knew she needed.
On the French - if you, like me, don't know any French, you can remain clueless like Leah and wait for things and experience an absolute *moment* at a point in the book and melt. (look at me, trying not to be spoilery - but you have choices; translate or don't, either way you won't be let down, Sara has us covered ;))
I also wanted both characters to know their worth when they were done, not just to each other, but to themselves too. And again, this author didn't let me down. I do enjoy good character growth and development - and as a socially awkward introvert, if an author has created people I'd like to be around, they're magic in my eyes!
Another amazing book from Sara Clement ✨
I read it in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I read the first few chapters the night it came in and spent my Saturday inhaling Leah and Julien, breaking my bedtime rule both nights (staying up late to read!)
This whole story had my heart aching and relearning what the term 'slow burn' meant.
I will not spoil anything, or go too much into all the why's of all the things. But... I have to say something because this was just so good (also, bit of a crummy review if I didn't!?)
Initially I struggled with Leah, and I realised a few chapters in that the reason was maybe because there was too much similarity there for me. Her inner thoughts and the way she talked to herself (and about herself) was a bit too familiar - and once I realised that, I totally got her.
And Julien! This author is spoiling us with a shy, French speaking, tree of a man who is the kindest, sweetest thing. I loved Julien - his quietness, his big heart, his whole communication style. He fit right into what Leah never knew she needed.
On the French - if you, like me, don't know any French, you can remain clueless like Leah and wait for things and experience an absolute *moment* at a point in the book and melt. (look at me, trying not to be spoilery - but you have choices; translate or don't, either way you won't be let down, Sara has us covered ;))
I also wanted both characters to know their worth when they were done, not just to each other, but to themselves too. And again, this author didn't let me down. I do enjoy good character growth and development - and as a socially awkward introvert, if an author has created people I'd like to be around, they're magic in my eyes!
Another amazing book from Sara Clement ✨
May 4, 2025
thank you so much to Book Funnel and Sarah Clement for providing this arc in exchange for an honest review!
i enjoyed this book quite a lot, it was a nice quick read. i’m really glad i read it all before the release day tbh.
I really liked the running aspect of the story and it made me feel more motivated to run tbh. i’ve never read a story that has a side plot with running in it, so this was nice to have and I actually learned a bunch of stuff about running from it.
I don’t really have that many complaints about the book. It was really good and I liked the ending, the way that everything summed up, but I just have a couple things that were what made this only three stars:
- Julien’s hair
i’m sorry but a MANBUN?! i could not with that 😭 i kept trying to imagine something different or ignore it because i could just not get behind that hairdo for him
- His stuttering
it actually pissed me off so much in the beginning when he stuttered LITERALLY EVERY WORD. like i get that it was because english wasn’t his first language but come on.
- Too much of an insta-love for me
I had a difficult time getting behind how insta-love this story was. like how did julien and leah go from ‘hating’ each other to being utterly obsessed and in love. I’ve read lots of insta-love type books that I liked, but with this one i kinda started to understand why so many people don’t like that type of trope.
don’t let those few thoughts lead you astray from reading this, I still really liked the story- other than those few things. you should definitely go read the book when it comes out. it was a great book; I really loved the running aspect of the book and Leah’s character. I definitely want to read Isabel’s story when it comes out. I now want to read Paige and Adam’s story and I definitely will when I have the chance to.
i enjoyed this book quite a lot, it was a nice quick read. i’m really glad i read it all before the release day tbh.
I really liked the running aspect of the story and it made me feel more motivated to run tbh. i’ve never read a story that has a side plot with running in it, so this was nice to have and I actually learned a bunch of stuff about running from it.
I don’t really have that many complaints about the book. It was really good and I liked the ending, the way that everything summed up, but I just have a couple things that were what made this only three stars:
- Julien’s hair
i’m sorry but a MANBUN?! i could not with that 😭 i kept trying to imagine something different or ignore it because i could just not get behind that hairdo for him
- His stuttering
it actually pissed me off so much in the beginning when he stuttered LITERALLY EVERY WORD. like i get that it was because english wasn’t his first language but come on.
- Too much of an insta-love for me
I had a difficult time getting behind how insta-love this story was. like how did julien and leah go from ‘hating’ each other to being utterly obsessed and in love. I’ve read lots of insta-love type books that I liked, but with this one i kinda started to understand why so many people don’t like that type of trope.
don’t let those few thoughts lead you astray from reading this, I still really liked the story- other than those few things. you should definitely go read the book when it comes out. it was a great book; I really loved the running aspect of the book and Leah’s character. I definitely want to read Isabel’s story when it comes out. I now want to read Paige and Adam’s story and I definitely will when I have the chance to.
April 25, 2025
4.25⭐ rounded down
Ah mon cœur🥹 going into this, I didn't think there was any couple Sara could write that would rival Paige and Adam in my heart, but there she goes passing all my expectations again! Julien and Leah are EVERYTHING!!
I'm truly always amazed with Sara's writing. She knows exactly how to get you in the feels; every single emotion just jumps right off the page when you read her books. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I had all the feels. I'm also super thrilled that there was so much French incorporated into the story! I am pleased to say that I remembered quite a bit from my highschool days🤭
Julien is the biggest teddy bear with the quietest exterior. A true opposite to Leah's type-A, outspoken personality. But when they come together, they are a match made in heaven. The way they continue to show up for each other over👏🏻 and👏🏻 over👏🏻 speaks volumes!
Let me tell you something...you're in for a TREAT with this one! It'll be released on May 5, so right around the corner!! A huge thank you to Sara for giving me the opportunity to read this before release day!
You'll love this if you love:
📖 sports romance (running + hockey)
📖 single mom
📖 forced proximity
📖 quiet, protective MMC
✨TW: this book contains cuss words and topics of parental death, car accident, panic attacks, sports injury, toxic ex, manipulation, and sexual content.
Ah mon cœur🥹 going into this, I didn't think there was any couple Sara could write that would rival Paige and Adam in my heart, but there she goes passing all my expectations again! Julien and Leah are EVERYTHING!!
I'm truly always amazed with Sara's writing. She knows exactly how to get you in the feels; every single emotion just jumps right off the page when you read her books. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I had all the feels. I'm also super thrilled that there was so much French incorporated into the story! I am pleased to say that I remembered quite a bit from my highschool days🤭
Julien is the biggest teddy bear with the quietest exterior. A true opposite to Leah's type-A, outspoken personality. But when they come together, they are a match made in heaven. The way they continue to show up for each other over👏🏻 and👏🏻 over👏🏻 speaks volumes!
Let me tell you something...you're in for a TREAT with this one! It'll be released on May 5, so right around the corner!! A huge thank you to Sara for giving me the opportunity to read this before release day!
You'll love this if you love:
📖 sports romance (running + hockey)
📖 single mom
📖 forced proximity
📖 quiet, protective MMC
✨TW: this book contains cuss words and topics of parental death, car accident, panic attacks, sports injury, toxic ex, manipulation, and sexual content.
April 27, 2025
Sara’s writing is an addiction I’m happy to have! 🫡
I related so much to Paige when I read the first book because she reminded me of myself back when I used to run a lot. This time, Leah was even closer to my heart. Being a mom myself (not a single one, thank god — that woman is a hero), I felt her struggles deeply. Running isn’t always easy and food is delicious.
The banter, the yearning, the chemistry — I loved it all! I also really appreciated Julien’s character because, like him, I’m a French Canadian. It was so fun to see that represented in a book. He’s so clumsy with his words sometimes, and it’s endearing. I understand the struggle of speaking English when it’s not your first language. You don’t always manage to say exactly what’s in your mind, but I actually think that made their communication even stronger. They had to explain and really listen to each other.
This was such a heartfelt, funny, and tender story. Sara Clement captured so many real emotions in this one. 💕
Thank you so much to Sara and her team for the ARC! I can’t wait to read the final book in the series! 🤗
I related so much to Paige when I read the first book because she reminded me of myself back when I used to run a lot. This time, Leah was even closer to my heart. Being a mom myself (not a single one, thank god — that woman is a hero), I felt her struggles deeply. Running isn’t always easy and food is delicious.
The banter, the yearning, the chemistry — I loved it all! I also really appreciated Julien’s character because, like him, I’m a French Canadian. It was so fun to see that represented in a book. He’s so clumsy with his words sometimes, and it’s endearing. I understand the struggle of speaking English when it’s not your first language. You don’t always manage to say exactly what’s in your mind, but I actually think that made their communication even stronger. They had to explain and really listen to each other.
This was such a heartfelt, funny, and tender story. Sara Clement captured so many real emotions in this one. 💕
Thank you so much to Sara and her team for the ARC! I can’t wait to read the final book in the series! 🤗
April 21, 2025
Thank you for the ARC! I love to run and I love me some slow burn so this was a very niche and fun read for me!
Oh my gosh what do you mean you have your own two-bedroom apartment in VANCOUVER?
Absolutely correct though, the views are so worth it and just overall a stunning setting for this novel. She’s a challenging and such an exhausting character to follow (if only because I totally relate to 85% of her inner monolgue). Her love for her sister in their very sad circumstances truly shows perseverance. And as for Julien? Not enough can be said about how much I loved him. We love a running/hockey romance.
Leah and Julien’s story starts off heatedly in the way most enemies to lovers usually do - an argument that could have been avoided if they were normal communicators. Between this A-Type distance runner who has a massive mental game ahead of her and this shy, sweetheart NHL goalie, it was their development was great to read.
Couldn’t put this down, got me hooked heavily back on romance. ❤️🔥
Oh my gosh what do you mean you have your own two-bedroom apartment in VANCOUVER?
Absolutely correct though, the views are so worth it and just overall a stunning setting for this novel. She’s a challenging and such an exhausting character to follow (if only because I totally relate to 85% of her inner monolgue). Her love for her sister in their very sad circumstances truly shows perseverance. And as for Julien? Not enough can be said about how much I loved him. We love a running/hockey romance.
Leah and Julien’s story starts off heatedly in the way most enemies to lovers usually do - an argument that could have been avoided if they were normal communicators. Between this A-Type distance runner who has a massive mental game ahead of her and this shy, sweetheart NHL goalie, it was their development was great to read.
Couldn’t put this down, got me hooked heavily back on romance. ❤️🔥
May 6, 2025
I definitely have some mixed feelings about this book, but it was a fun and easy read.
I loved the way the characters' were portrayed and how they changed and developed throughout this book. This was definitely a slow burn as both MCs had other factors to consider before jumping into a relationship. Both of them were so used to being independent and strong, and I loved how they were willing to be vulnerable with each other and open up about their feelings, their fears and their insecurities. Leah was so hilariously real for her percentage rating and I loved Julien's cute relationship with Levi.
I was not a fan of the miscommunication in this book...it lasted throughout the whole book and was frustrating after the second or third time. Leah frustrated me at times with her contradicting stubbornness (i.e., calling Julien out for swearing in front of Levi when she literally swore right before he did). The hate/dislike trope felt a little forced at times and I was slightly confused as to how they went from that to suddenly in being love with each other.
3.5
I loved the way the characters' were portrayed and how they changed and developed throughout this book. This was definitely a slow burn as both MCs had other factors to consider before jumping into a relationship. Both of them were so used to being independent and strong, and I loved how they were willing to be vulnerable with each other and open up about their feelings, their fears and their insecurities. Leah was so hilariously real for her percentage rating and I loved Julien's cute relationship with Levi.
I was not a fan of the miscommunication in this book...it lasted throughout the whole book and was frustrating after the second or third time. Leah frustrated me at times with her contradicting stubbornness (i.e., calling Julien out for swearing in front of Levi when she literally swore right before he did). The hate/dislike trope felt a little forced at times and I was slightly confused as to how they went from that to suddenly in being love with each other.
3.5
May 4, 2025
Single mom Leah has moved from Utah to beautiful, albeit damp, Vancouver, B.C. to be closer to her younger sister who is living out her fairytale love story. As the older sister she feels she's failing Paige by not being able to give her advice in this area since she's never been married. When the quiet, brooding, hockey giant in the wedding party suggests they find a race for their Bachelor/Bachelorette party, Leah wants to shut it down since it's yet another way she feels like she'd fail her sister having to sit on the sidelines. Much to her chagrin, she realizes the hockey giant is right and commits to teaching herself to run. It sucks. Even more so when she crosses paths with the "jackass" whose idea it was. Only, he starts running/walking/jogging with her. Every time she goes out. Despite less than stellar first impressions, Julien is helping her when she can't ask for help. Maybe he's not actually a jackass?
April 23, 2025
If you loved book 1 (See You at the Finish Line), you'll love book 2!
This is a stand-alone book, but I'd highly recommend reading the first in the Run, Love Repeat series first. I enjoyed how there were sprinkles from the first book throughout this one.
There was so much I enjoyed from a runner's perspective! As a run coach and employee at a local running store, the running store scene and race scene were perfect! I related so much to Leah during her race. The mental side of running is such a hurdle!
As a stubborn mother runner, I obviously loved Leah! I totally related to the body changes after becoming a mom and not knowing if you'll be loved the same.
I was lucky enough to be chosen for an ARC, but that doesn't sway my review! I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves rom coms, especially if you're a runner!
Can't wait for the next book from Sara!
This is a stand-alone book, but I'd highly recommend reading the first in the Run, Love Repeat series first. I enjoyed how there were sprinkles from the first book throughout this one.
There was so much I enjoyed from a runner's perspective! As a run coach and employee at a local running store, the running store scene and race scene were perfect! I related so much to Leah during her race. The mental side of running is such a hurdle!
As a stubborn mother runner, I obviously loved Leah! I totally related to the body changes after becoming a mom and not knowing if you'll be loved the same.
I was lucky enough to be chosen for an ARC, but that doesn't sway my review! I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves rom coms, especially if you're a runner!
Can't wait for the next book from Sara!
April 25, 2025
What do you even do when book one is a 5-star knockout and book two comes in even hotter? You lose your mind in the best way possible.
Julien is THE book boyfriend. Full stop. That perfect mix of grumpy, loyal, and sweet—the ultimate cinnamon roll. And paired with Leah? Fireworks. Their enemies-to-lovers chemistry had me absolutely feral. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
And that race scene? I’ve come in last before. I felt Leah’s frustration—but the way it was flipped? I cried. Everyone gets the same medal. I felt seen, and it hit me right in the gut (in the best way).
This book had me laughing, swooning, tearing up, and kicking my feet. If book one hooked me, book two owned me.
Run, don’t walk—Julien is waiting, and trust me, you want to fall for him too.
***I received this ebook as an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Julien is THE book boyfriend. Full stop. That perfect mix of grumpy, loyal, and sweet—the ultimate cinnamon roll. And paired with Leah? Fireworks. Their enemies-to-lovers chemistry had me absolutely feral. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
And that race scene? I’ve come in last before. I felt Leah’s frustration—but the way it was flipped? I cried. Everyone gets the same medal. I felt seen, and it hit me right in the gut (in the best way).
This book had me laughing, swooning, tearing up, and kicking my feet. If book one hooked me, book two owned me.
Run, don’t walk—Julien is waiting, and trust me, you want to fall for him too.
***I received this ebook as an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2025
Thank you Sara for trusting me with an ARC of this amazing book. I was on the ARC team for her debut and first book of this series, See You at The Finish Line, which I equally adored. While they are technically standalone novels, they are intertwined and you will get the best reading experience by starting at the beginning.
I resonated so much with Leah, and even Julien, and this book was exactly what I needed right now. Both of the main characters have similar struggles with failure and being themselves, but in different ways that ultimately complement each other. As someone that has similar struggles I found the ending extremely cathartic.
Make sure you translate Julien's French lines, they are swoon-worthy and hot!!! The tension between these 2 was so good, love me a good slow burn.
I can't wait for book 3!
I resonated so much with Leah, and even Julien, and this book was exactly what I needed right now. Both of the main characters have similar struggles with failure and being themselves, but in different ways that ultimately complement each other. As someone that has similar struggles I found the ending extremely cathartic.
Make sure you translate Julien's French lines, they are swoon-worthy and hot!!! The tension between these 2 was so good, love me a good slow burn.
I can't wait for book 3!
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