Close Enough to Burn

by Daniela R. Morassutti

Seventeen-year-old Isabella Bellini lives for speed—and for the one boy who’s never quite caught her. But when a crash shakes her confidence and the people she trusts let her fall, she turns to the one person who’s always been there: Matias, her best friend with secrets of his own. With her shot at the European racing league on the line, Isabella must choose between first love, fierce ambition, and the quiet kind of love that never asked her to slow down.

Close Enough to Burn is a swoon-filled, high-speed YA romance about loyalty, heartbreak, and learning to race for yourself.

"Close Enough to Burn by Daniela R. Morassutti is a unique, spirited, and intelligent novel that manages to balance the thrill of motorsport with Isabella's ambition, identity, and heart"; Reader's Favorite 5 Stars Review.

Genres: Young Adult, Romance

140 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 18, 2025

About the author

Daniela R. Morassutti is a structural engineer and real estate developer with a passion for storytelling that moves as fast as her characters. She fell in love with writing at the age of ten but put it on hold during college while pursuing a career in engineering. In 2020, during the quiet of the pandemic, she returned to the page—and hasn’t looked back since. Daniela writes emotionally charged young adult novels about ambition, heartbreak, and first loves that leave a mark. When she’s not building skylines or race tracks on the page, she lives in Los Angeles, where every sunset feels like a story waiting to be told.

Reviews

[Keri M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good book. The characters are so good. I loved how the FMC decides what she wants and goes for it without much guilt. She realizes that she can have love and still be successful.

[Emily Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect pacing, I loved Isabella and her story, it was all just so awesome!! Daniela did amazing with this one :)

[Karen Siddall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging character-driven young adult story of personal ambition, determination, and maturing romance.

Close Enough to Burn by Daniela R. Morassutti is an engaging, character-driven young adult story of personal ambition, determination, and the singular focus to achieve one’s dreams. At the same time, a sweet childhood attraction grows into mature adult love, all set in the exciting world of formula car racing. A sister and a brother, along with their two lifelong friends, compete against each other at the entry level of the California F4 racing circuit, hoping to attract sponsors and an invitation to one of the European F3 training teams. But as they focus on achieving their goals, romantic entanglements threaten to derail one racer’s dream.

High school junior Isabella Rossi has wanted to be a Formula One racer like her father since her race against her brother and their friend, Marco. That desire has kept her on course ever since. She has also secretly longed to be more than just a friend to Marco. While never articulating her romantic yearning, her best friend and fellow racer, Matias, probably knows, as he seems to understand Isabella better than she does herself. However, Marco has always had his eyes on his future in racing and had a relationship with another girl, until the tension between him and Isabella became too great to ignore. When the smoldering feelings between Marco and Isabella finally ignite, their romance is sweet but fast-burning.

Morassutti’s young adult characters are intensely motivated, whether it is for racing success or, as in Matias’s case, acceptance into the college of his dreams: Caltech. However, Matias is more balanced and patient in his pursuits than either Marco or Isabella. The three main characters are able to analyze their feelings and actions well enough to follow up after conflicts appropriately; in fact, they are better at it than most adults. As a result, the story progresses with just the right amount of tension and angst without becoming bogged down in overly lengthy drama.

The story is more novella-length than novel, so the plot moves quickly. The racing scenes were thrilling and well-choreographed, especially the final Las Vegas race. I did encounter a little confusion at the beginning of the story when the characters were being introduced and their relationships established due to mixed up pronouns (i.e., Rocco is referred to as “his brother” rather than “her’ brother) and later when the name Matias is used when Marco was actually correct. Perhaps, this was an unconscious projection of Matias always being there for Isabella rather than Marco.

With its engaging, reflective young characters and unique formula racing setting, I recommend CLOSE ENOUGH TO BURN to readers of young adult fiction, especially those who enjoy stories of romance or have an interest in racecar driving.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from Reedsy Discovery.

[Bookworm On The Bay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Close Enough To Burn
By Daniela R Morassutti

A Thoughtful, Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Story in the Fast Lane
A sweet and emotionally grounded novella with strong character growth and a unique racing backdrop.

This novella is beautifully written, with character development that’s surprisingly deep for a shorter story.

The focus is on Isabella, a high school junior on the cusp of her senior year. While school isn’t a central element, her personal/emotional growth is front and center, shaped by the challenges in her life. Formula 3 racing is everything to her—her brother Rocco races, their father is a retired professional driver who now coaches both his children and their longtime friends, Marco and Matias. Matias stands out as the only one not planning to continue racing.

It’s a sweet, heartfelt read with a romance that’s gentle and not overly dramatic. I especially loved the ending—Isabella’s personal journey felt authentic and believable, and the way the author handled her growth was perfectly in tune with the story. A well-earned four stars.

I received an advance copy of this book at no cost in exchange for my honest review.

[Abbi Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a 3.5 star read for me.

This is a YA sports romance book following the story of Isabella who is daughter of an F1 driver and is trying to break her way into the sport. Isabella is in a love triangle with her childhood friend and her brother’s best friend and I loved how Isabella had her dreams and didn’t let anybody stand in her way. She is determined to show everyone that she is capable and she deserves to make something of herself!

I think this is a great book if you’re looking for a short, palate cleanser inbetween bigger books. I personally found the book to be a little bit too short. I didn’t feel like there was enough time to build up characters or backstories enough for me to care who Isabella ended up with. I think the story was nice but I would have preferred the book to be longer and slightly more detailed as the romance felt quite surface level and slightly rushed at times.

I’d be very keen to read another of the author’s novels if they were a longer story! :)

[Mayra Camarena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a YA sports romance that follows Isabella, a young girl with a dream of becoming a professional racer. While trying to prove that she can be that professional racer, she’s also in the middle of a love triangle.Two of her childhood best friends are in love with her, and she needs to decide who her heart belongs to. What I loved about this book is that it has a great message for young girls and that is that anything is possible and the only one that can stop you from following your dreams is yourself. This was a quick and easy read that I really enjoyed. I do wish that there was a little more romance in it, but it was still a great book.

[Krystle Rafanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ Arc Review ✨️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you @danielarmorassutti for sending me copy of Close Enough To Burn 💜

This is a heartfelt coming of age novella that was so sweet. I loved Isabella and her determination to become a professional racer. The romance was really cute and was between her 2 childhood friends. This is a great coming of age book that was fast paced but not rushed to where the character development was lacking. It was a fun short story that I would recommend for you to read.

Honestly this is a great book for those who have daughters in High School and want to recommend something for them to read ❤️❤️

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Rounded up

This was my first Racing Romance- it is YA and more racing forward then romance but it was so good.

I love how career focused Ella was and not just boy crazy. I do wish their was more of a "love triangle"

it i really enjoyed this read and its less than 200 pages so it is quick and easy to get through.

[HannahMReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was an adorable read. There was a good balance of sports and romance. The characters were lovable. The romance was sweet. The story read fast but didn’t feel rushed. I didn’t want to quit reading because I was so engaged with the book. I loved the author’s style of storytelling. YA isn’t my favorite genre lately, but I’m so glad I gave this book a chance.

[Margaux Burkholder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniela’s writing pulls you in almost instantly with her character development and descriptive writing style that makes you feel like you’re right there on the race track with Isabella. It’s a fun, easy read that I couldn’t put down and finished in one sitting cause I had to know how things end for Isabella. Definitely recommend this read!

[May · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a wonderful read!! Not my usual taste in books, but I’m so glad I read it! Definitely looking forward to seeing what’s next for the FMC as she’s so likable and strong!! An original plot and great writing! A must read ♥️

[Avery Layton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a really good book. Isabella is such a mature character and I loved following her growth. This is definitely a shorter read but totally worth it!

[S.A · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short books was absolutely brilliant! With flashbacks from the past, showing us how raw and true Isabella’s (Female Main Character) story was.. is and with a kind of crazy love triangle, I loved it!! It perfectly reflected my own dreams… yes. Which is why I think I just was so content with the cover, the storyline, the characters, the determination and the description. The description of the feel of the cars, how the adrenaline rushes when you’re doing what you love. I get it. My only beef with this book is how short it was! Being 76 pages long is, and I’m sorry for this but I’m genuinely angry, RIDICULOUS- however, it had amazingly-awesomely-brilliant pacing. But, anyways, I highly recommend this and I will absolutely be reading this millions of times, again and again, in the foreseeable future. Xoxo….

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Meghan 🧚🏼‍♀️📚✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Close Enough to Burn is a compelling young adult contemporary novel that masterfully fuses high-octane motorsports with heartfelt emotional complexity. At the center of this gripping coming-of-age story is Isabella Bellini, a talented and determined young racer navigating the emotional potholes of rivalry, romance, and self-identity.

A Story Driven by Speed and Soul
The novel’s engine runs on more than just horsepower — it’s powered by deeply personal relationships, emotional growth, and the sheer will to defy expectations. Isabella is not your typical teenage protagonist; she’s fierce, vulnerable, and incredibly real. Surrounded by lifelong friends and fierce rivals, she finds herself caught in a web of emotional tension: the unresolved chemistry with Marco, the childhood friend turned complicated love interest; the steady, grounding presence of Matias, who returns with confidence and hidden feelings; and the constant pressure of her father’s towering racing legacy.
From the thrill of clandestine motorcycle rides and secret kisses to the grit of professional race tracks, each scene is soaked with both adrenaline and authenticity. The dynamics between Isabella, Marco, and Matias add a romantic tension that is both intense and emotionally honest, while the presence of secondary characters like the bold Sianna and supportive Cindy give the story additional depth and texture.

Emotional Highs and Crashes
The novel doesn’t shy away from portraying the emotional and physical toll of chasing dreams. Isabella’s journey is punctuated by injuries, self-doubt, and societal pressures, particularly those faced by women in male-dominated spaces like motorsports. Her sixth-place finish in Palm Springs, followed by a moment of patronizing commentary, is both frustrating and poignant — a reminder of the gender biases she strives to overcome.
Yet her determination never wanes. From secret kart sessions with Matias to her daring Vegas comeback, Isabella proves she’s not just racing against her competitors — she’s racing to claim her own worth, apart from her father's legacy or anyone else's shadow.

Romance on the Edge
The romantic threads in this novel are skillfully woven. While Marco and Isabella’s passionate yet unstable connection provides the initial emotional draw, it’s the slow-burning relationship with Matias that gives the story its emotional heartbeat. Their respectful, steady friendship that gradually evolves into something deeper is a refreshing portrayal of love grounded in trust and mutual growth.
The eventual breakdown of Isabella and Marco’s relationship is handled with maturity and nuance. Rather than resorting to melodrama, the novel explores how trust, communication, and emotional maturity are essential — and what happens when they falter.

A Strong Finish, with the Promise of More
The climax builds to Isabella’s long-awaited success: a place on the McLaren junior team and a future in Europe. Her professional triumph is hard-won and satisfying, but the emotional payoff is just as impactful. Matias’s dramatic airport declaration may feel cinematic, but it’s earned — a culmination of quiet support, growing respect, and unresolved longing.
In her author’s note, the writer leaves the door open for a sequel — and readers will undoubtedly be eager to follow Isabella and Matias into the next chapter of their journey.

Final Verdict
⭐ 4/5 Stars
This novel is a fast-paced, emotionally rich narrative that speaks to dreamers, fighters, and anyone who’s ever felt caught between love and ambition. With relatable characters, layered storytelling, and a pitch-perfect blend of adrenaline and introspection, it’s a standout in the YA contemporary genre.
Whether you're a motorsport enthusiast or simply love stories about resilience and romance, this book delivers both thrills and feels — and leaves you wanting more.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Close Enough to Burn by Daniela R. Morassutti

Rating: ★★★★ (4/5)

Daniela R. Morassutti’s Close Enough to Burn delivers a compelling blend of high-speed racing drama and heartfelt coming-of-age romance that will resonate with YA readers. The story of seventeen-year-old racing prodigy Isabella Bellini captures both the thrill of competition and the vulnerability of young adulthood with remarkable authenticity.

What makes this novel stand out is its nuanced exploration of ambition and relationships. Isabella’s journey after a career-threatening crash goes beyond typical sports narratives - it’s a raw examination of identity and self-worth. The dynamic between Isabella and her best friend Matias provides the emotional core of the story, evolving from comfortable friendship to something more complex with genuine tenderness. Their scenes together balance youthful intensity with moments of quiet understanding that feel refreshingly real.

The racing sequences are visceral and well-researched, immersing readers in Isabella’s world of speed and danger. Morassutti effectively uses motorsport as both literal competition and metaphor for personal growth. Particularly compelling is how the novel handles Isabella’s dilemma between pursuing her dreams and navigating relationships - a universal struggle made specific through the high-stakes racing world.

Some pacing issues emerge in the middle section, where Isabella’s internal conflicts occasionally circle repetitive territory. A tighter edit could have maintained the story’s momentum while still developing her emotional arc. Additionally, while the central relationships are well-drawn, some secondary characters feel underutilized, particularly Isabella’s racing rivals who could have provided more nuanced opposition.

The novel shines brightest in its quieter moments - a late-night garage conversation, the weight of unspoken feelings between races, the vulnerability behind Isabella’s tough exterior. These scenes elevate the book beyond its genre conventions, offering genuine emotional depth.

Notable Strengths:
-Authentic portrayal of young ambition and self-discovery
-Well-developed central relationship with organic chemistry
-Visceral racing sequences that serve the character development
-Thoughtful exploration of identity beyond athletic achievement

Areas for Growth:
-More distinctive voices for secondary characters
-Tighter pacing in middle sections
-Deeper development of the competitive racing world

Final Assessment:
Close Enough to Burn succeeds as both an exciting sports story and a moving coming-of-age novel. While it occasionally follows familiar YA patterns, its emotional honesty and specific worldbuilding make it stand out. The ending delivers satisfying payoff while leaving room for the characters’ continued growth.

Recommended For:
-Fans of character-driven sports stories
-Readers who enjoy slow-burn romantic development
-Those interested in stories about personal identity
-YA audiences looking for substantive contemporary fiction

Acknowledgments:
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for providing a review copy. This novel surprised me with its depth and has stayed with me since reading - a testament to its emotional impact.

Summary Takeaways:

- A high-speed journey of heart and horsepower
- Where the rush of the racetrack meets the ache of first love
- Proof that the quietest moments can burn the brightest
-For anyone who’s ever had to choose between their passion and their heart

This review reflects the novel’s strengths as an engaging, emotionally resonant YA story that transcends its genre trappings through authentic character work and thoughtful themes. The 4-star rating acknowledges both its accomplishments and areas where greater depth could have elevated it further.

[tati_sofiaa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

✔️ Ambitious concept with a strong female lead in motorsport
✔️ Glimpses of an intriguing setting and competitive world

➖ Story was hard to follow and felt underdeveloped
➖ Isabella’s passion and drive didn’t get the depth they deserved
➖ Odd love triangle that didn’t fully land
➖ Unbelievable race scenario that broke immersion

I really wanted to love this one the premise had such strong potential. A young woman in karting with dreams of Formula 3? That’s exactly the kind of ambitious, high-adrenaline story I usually go for. But unfortunately, Close Enough to Burn just didn’t click for me.

First off, I had a hard time following the story. The pacing felt inconsistent, jumping between plot points without giving them time to settle. Isabella’s journey in karting and her dream to reach F3 felt rushed. I wanted to feel her passion for racing, to get deeper into her mindset but we were only given fragments. It was hard to truly root for her when I didn’t fully understand her.

The love triangle also felt a bit… off. There wasn’t enough development to make the tension feel believable, and at times it distracted from what could have been a stronger focus on Isabella’s racing and personal journey.

And then there’s the race with Matias’ car, a major, high-stakes moment in the story and I just couldn’t suspend my disbelief. Why would she race in his car for such an important competition? It didn’t feel earned, and I wasn’t sure how I was supposed to feel about that decision.

That said, there were glimmers of potential. The London setting intrigued me, and I’d honestly love to see more of Isabella’s life there if there’s ever a follow-up. There’s definitely a story worth telling here.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book. It is different from Daniela's first book. This book was giving me coming of age and first loves. I like that Daniela did incorporate a good amount of racing in the story. Yes, the concept of the story is about racing but there are many times when stories are supposed to be about a certain topic and there is very little featured in the story.

I give credit to Isabella as she knew what she wanted, and she went for it. She may have had to fight harder than the guys, but she acknowledged this and did not back down. Got to me honest that while Isabella was pining over Marco, I thought she was trying too hard to get his attention. I was Team Matias from the beginning. It is always the one that is right under your nose that is the last one to be discovered.

I do hope that there is a next book as I would like to see Isabella as she takes on more of the racing world.

[Victoria M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Close Enough to Burn is a fierce, emotionally charged YA romance that hits the gas from page one and never lets up.

Isabella Bellini is a girl with ambition, heart, and just enough reckless courage to chase her dreams in a male-dominated racing world. But what really makes this story shine is how it balances adrenaline-pumping competition with the quieter, messier truths of growing up, falling in love, and figuring out who you are when everything feels like it’s slipping away.

The love triangle is so well done—one boy is all smolder and chaos, the other is steady and soul-deep—and neither feels like a plot device. You feel every choice, every near miss, every moment of connection.

And that ending? Let’s just say... I’m still not over it.

[Gabriela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella Bellini is the kind of protagonist YA needs more of. Ambitious, vulnerable, unapologetically intense—she’s not here to be perfect, she’s here to fight for what she loves.

What I adored most about Close Enough to Burn is how deeply personal Isabella’s journey feels. She’s not just racing for a title—she’s racing to prove she belongs, even when the world tells her she doesn’t. Her emotional arc is layered with self-doubt and passion.

Yes, there’s romance (and it’s swoony), but the heart of this story is about a girl who refuses to choose between love and her dream. She’s driven, real, messy—and I rooted for her with every page.

If you’re looking for a YA heroine who’s got grit, heart, and the kind of depth that sticks with you—Isabella is it.

[Ileana Rincón · Rating 5 out of 5]

Close Enough to Burn is a compelling YA novel that blends the thrill of racing with themes of love, resilience, and self-discovery. It follows Isabella Bellini, a determined teen racer whose confidence is shaken after a crash. As she navigates ambition, heartbreak, and her deepening bond with her best friend Matias, the story unfolds with emotional depth and strong character development. The writing is heartfelt and cinematic, making it a standout for readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven romance with a fierce, relatable heroine.

[Taylor Kalb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time, reading a racing romance book, and I actually enjoyed it. I thought it was very refreshing. The female main character was very driven and I liked how she was determined to reach her goal no matter what the only thing I think I would have liked better is if there was more of her true love interest story. I think that if the author wrote a second book, I would definitely read it!

[Jadyn Breien · Rating 5 out of 5]

This young adult novel is beautifully written with vivid details that draw you in from the very first page. Isabella’s journey is full of passion, excitement, and surprises that keep you turning the pages. The story shows the true meaning of chasing dreams, facing fears, and finding love in the most unexpected places.

I would absolutely recommend!

[Antonio M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella is everything you want in a main character—strong, passionate, and real. Close Enough to Burn is a fast-paced, emotional ride with a fearless girl at the wheel. Perfect for anyone who loves stories about chasing dreams and unexpected love.

Absolutely recommended!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how mature Isabella is for her age, I think the character made this book special. I love stories like this: it's an easy read but you can't put the book down until you finish it! If you are looking for a chill book, this is it!

[Ashleen Vargas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Looking forward to the next one

[Cecilia Elmadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

IN LOVEEEEE WITH THIS BOOK!! I can’t decide if I love Marco or Matias more!!!

[Anthony Nicolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and easy to read, great book!

[Claudia Sequera · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING BOOK! Must read

[Claudio · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this one down. The racing stories are really engaging and each chapters leaves you wanting for more. A light and refreshing read.

[LollyReads97 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the type of sports romance I’d usually read BUT I did enjoy it.

The FMC gave girl boss energy and there was an interesting little love triangle going on.