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Slipstream #2
The Paddock Club: A Novel
A Formula 1 romance set in the Slipstream universe following Cat Cromwell, a fashion influencer on a secret mission to ruin a driver’s reputation, but she may fall for his rival instead.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2026
About the author
Madge Maril
2 books199 followersHello! I'm Madge Maril, author of SLIPSTREAM & THE PADDOCK CLUB (7/14/2026). When I'm not writing romance books, I'm probably on Instagram. (Or you can follow my *very* sporadic newsletter.) Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
February 9, 2026
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. all opinions are my own.
i truly don’t know if i have adequate enough words to describe how much i love madge maril’s books, so please bear with me.
first - i love the writing. beautiful, witty, thought provoking prose that makes it so easy to fly through the pages and lose track of time.
these characters are so real. they’re flawed and smart and funny and vulnerable and so, so real. i loved the glimpses we got of faust from book 1 and i loved learning more about him. i am obsessed with cat - she’s one of my new favorite book characters. i loved seeing her character development and a lot of her inner monologue had me going “girl, same.” side note i also adored cat’s love for fashion and the true appreciation for it that the author showed.
the romance!!!!! the ROMANCEEEE!! so so good. the back and forth, cat and mouse dynamic they had at first had me actually screaming. i also love a “he falls first” trope and faust was down BAD for cat - it had me genuinely kicking my feet, giggling, twirling my hair, sliding down the wall, etc. every other page like oh my god?? madge knows how to write tension and banter between two intelligent characters and i truly eat it up every time.
similar to slipstream, the paddock club deals with formula 1 in a very nuanced way. as a fan of the sport, madge does a great job at writing her love for racing into the pages while also not shying away from (very valid) critiques about the sport itself and the socioeconomic divide within the world of f1. also these books are accurate regarding the rules of f1, which is very much appreciated!!
i also really resonated with how cat’s grief, especially for her grandmother, was portrayed. i was crying right alongside her and highlighted so many quotes that really got me.
also: “you’re the reason people keep lights on” iykyk!!!!!!
overall, PLEASE read these books and add them to your tbr if you haven’t already. they’re so, so well written and are such beautiful stories. if you’re a fan of f1 you’ll love them and if you are unfamiliar with f1, these books are accessible and a fun introduction to the sport.
i truly don’t know if i have adequate enough words to describe how much i love madge maril’s books, so please bear with me.
first - i love the writing. beautiful, witty, thought provoking prose that makes it so easy to fly through the pages and lose track of time.
these characters are so real. they’re flawed and smart and funny and vulnerable and so, so real. i loved the glimpses we got of faust from book 1 and i loved learning more about him. i am obsessed with cat - she’s one of my new favorite book characters. i loved seeing her character development and a lot of her inner monologue had me going “girl, same.” side note i also adored cat’s love for fashion and the true appreciation for it that the author showed.
the romance!!!!! the ROMANCEEEE!! so so good. the back and forth, cat and mouse dynamic they had at first had me actually screaming. i also love a “he falls first” trope and faust was down BAD for cat - it had me genuinely kicking my feet, giggling, twirling my hair, sliding down the wall, etc. every other page like oh my god?? madge knows how to write tension and banter between two intelligent characters and i truly eat it up every time.
similar to slipstream, the paddock club deals with formula 1 in a very nuanced way. as a fan of the sport, madge does a great job at writing her love for racing into the pages while also not shying away from (very valid) critiques about the sport itself and the socioeconomic divide within the world of f1. also these books are accurate regarding the rules of f1, which is very much appreciated!!
i also really resonated with how cat’s grief, especially for her grandmother, was portrayed. i was crying right alongside her and highlighted so many quotes that really got me.
also: “you’re the reason people keep lights on” iykyk!!!!!!
overall, PLEASE read these books and add them to your tbr if you haven’t already. they’re so, so well written and are such beautiful stories. if you’re a fan of f1 you’ll love them and if you are unfamiliar with f1, these books are accessible and a fun introduction to the sport.
August 16, 2026
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!*
4 out of 5 stars!
I had such a fun time reading The Paddock Club! Cat and Faust were such an entertaining pair, and I absolutely loved their chemistry, banter, and the slow-burn tension between them. I also really enjoyed the mix of F1, fashion, and romance—it made the whole story feel so fun and unique.
There was just something about this book that made it incredibly easy to get lost in, and I can definitely see myself rereading it in the near future. I also went into this one without having read Slipstream, but now I’m genuinely curious about book one and definitely want to pick it up! Overall, such a fun and memorable romance that I’m really glad I read.
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One of the tropes are F1 driver x professional heartbreaker. I love professional heartbreakers!!! I'm so looking forward to this.
4 out of 5 stars!
I had such a fun time reading The Paddock Club! Cat and Faust were such an entertaining pair, and I absolutely loved their chemistry, banter, and the slow-burn tension between them. I also really enjoyed the mix of F1, fashion, and romance—it made the whole story feel so fun and unique.
There was just something about this book that made it incredibly easy to get lost in, and I can definitely see myself rereading it in the near future. I also went into this one without having read Slipstream, but now I’m genuinely curious about book one and definitely want to pick it up! Overall, such a fun and memorable romance that I’m really glad I read.
______________
One of the tropes are F1 driver x professional heartbreaker. I love professional heartbreakers!!! I'm so looking forward to this.
April 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
The premise of this book jumped out at me right away, and as an F1 girlie myself who really liked Slipstream, I knew I had to read this ASAP. Unfortunately, this one simply didn’t click with me. We follow Cat Cromwell as she fake dates and breaks heart for a living - her newest mark is formula 1 driver Bernard Baudelaire and when she begins the ruse, she’s intrigued by Faust, the driver she is styling. Throughout the book, the two of them speak a few times, have some tension that I personally couldn’t see, and eventually fall for each other. My biggest issue was the timing - it moved incredibly quickly and I feel like there was nothing to back it up, just a whole lot of unnecessary angst.
Everything felt a little choppy, out of place, and overall confusing if I’m being completely honest. Luckily the characters had some depth, because that was one of the redeeming factors for me. I didn’t dislike it by any means, but I didn’t love it. I can see this 100% being other people’s cup of tea though, so if it sounds interesting to you, I’d definitely recommend giving it a go.
The premise of this book jumped out at me right away, and as an F1 girlie myself who really liked Slipstream, I knew I had to read this ASAP. Unfortunately, this one simply didn’t click with me. We follow Cat Cromwell as she fake dates and breaks heart for a living - her newest mark is formula 1 driver Bernard Baudelaire and when she begins the ruse, she’s intrigued by Faust, the driver she is styling. Throughout the book, the two of them speak a few times, have some tension that I personally couldn’t see, and eventually fall for each other. My biggest issue was the timing - it moved incredibly quickly and I feel like there was nothing to back it up, just a whole lot of unnecessary angst.
Everything felt a little choppy, out of place, and overall confusing if I’m being completely honest. Luckily the characters had some depth, because that was one of the redeeming factors for me. I didn’t dislike it by any means, but I didn’t love it. I can see this 100% being other people’s cup of tea though, so if it sounds interesting to you, I’d definitely recommend giving it a go.
July 18, 2026
Overall, I'd give this book 4 stars. This book was surprisingly sweet; I didn't read the synopsis and I'm glad I went in blind. I loved Cat and what she did for other women. The dynamic between her and Faust was interesting right off the bat. I couldn't imagine if someone came on that strong, but I really liked his character. Cat's family is a huge factor in her doing what she does, but they have so little on page time. I was really happy to see them toward the end of the book.
*Forced proximity
*Hidden identity
*F1 driver/Fashion stylist
*Revenge
Format: ebook
Thank you NetGalley, Madge Maril, and Simon & Schuster for the ARC!
*Forced proximity
*Hidden identity
*F1 driver/Fashion stylist
*Revenge
Format: ebook
Thank you NetGalley, Madge Maril, and Simon & Schuster for the ARC!
May 29, 2026
Finally!! A new 5 star read!! This book hooked me from the very beginning with Madge’s engaging writing. I was obsessed with Cat from the start as the fmc and I ended up relating to her more than I thought possible. As an eldest daughter and a high risk cancer patient, her character meant a lot to me. Her character development by the end was SO GOOD and had me actually a little teary.
Obviously I absolutely loved Faust and how DOWN BAD that man was for Cat!! He was quiet but fierce in his love and support for her and I loved watching their love story unfold. It was different from other romances I’ve read and I loved that so much.
The plot was unique and really fun. It made this book even more than just a romance for me which really added to my enjoyment of the book. There was so much drama that I had to keep reading every second I could. I stayed up late to read this, which I rarely do anymore.
I just really loved everything about this! The writing, the characters, the plot, the development, it was all so good. Emotional and relatable but still a really fun time. Thank you so much to the publisher for the arc 🩷
Obviously I absolutely loved Faust and how DOWN BAD that man was for Cat!! He was quiet but fierce in his love and support for her and I loved watching their love story unfold. It was different from other romances I’ve read and I loved that so much.
The plot was unique and really fun. It made this book even more than just a romance for me which really added to my enjoyment of the book. There was so much drama that I had to keep reading every second I could. I stayed up late to read this, which I rarely do anymore.
I just really loved everything about this! The writing, the characters, the plot, the development, it was all so good. Emotional and relatable but still a really fun time. Thank you so much to the publisher for the arc 🩷
August 11, 2026
I enjoyed the book. But I adored Fausto.
July 22, 2026
I really liked the first book in this series... and maybe I need to reread that and rethink everything because this book was not good. It felt AI generated. I was excited for it to come out so I am thoroughly dissappointed.
March 25, 2026
Thank you to Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the eARC of The Paddock Club.
Love! Love! Love! Madge Maril absolutely nailed The Paddock Club, the second book in her Slipstream series. This story was the perfect mix of F1 and romance with a male main character who absolutely yearns for our FMC. I loved the premise of Cat being a work for hire girl who breaks men’s hearts only to find her match with Faust. Their relationship and all the things Faust does along the way to show he cares had me kicking my feet. This novel was also the perfect way to pass the time while waiting for F1 to return. This is a summer must read! 5⭐️
Love! Love! Love! Madge Maril absolutely nailed The Paddock Club, the second book in her Slipstream series. This story was the perfect mix of F1 and romance with a male main character who absolutely yearns for our FMC. I loved the premise of Cat being a work for hire girl who breaks men’s hearts only to find her match with Faust. Their relationship and all the things Faust does along the way to show he cares had me kicking my feet. This novel was also the perfect way to pass the time while waiting for F1 to return. This is a summer must read! 5⭐️
December 12, 2025
I was thrilled to receive an ARC of this book from the author. Madge really grew as a writer here. Slipstream was shiny and new and a feel-good time to read, but with the Paddock Club you can really tell that Madge let loose and had a ton of fun writing these characters. It's kind of like her debut was her first-born and she was being so soft, gentle and loving with it, but the Paddock Club is like her wildchild secondborn that she lets be feral (positive) and unsupervised. I flew through this in two days because I could not stop reading it. It has a bit of an addictive quality. Congrats on Book #2, Madge!!!
July 14, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I have never watched an F1 race but I’m apparently into reading about the sport.
Fans of Mariana Zapata I think would devour this.
Single POV
And the girl is clueless about the guys feelings. Yet we the reader just know.
I eat this up.
Little miss Cat has a unique job.
Breaking mens hearts for a living.
Secret identity
Lands a job for the team as a fashion gal
Faust, our driver.
Secretly obsessed.
Netgalley arc review ✨
I have never watched an F1 race but I’m apparently into reading about the sport.
Fans of Mariana Zapata I think would devour this.
Single POV
And the girl is clueless about the guys feelings. Yet we the reader just know.
I eat this up.
Little miss Cat has a unique job.
Breaking mens hearts for a living.
Secret identity
Lands a job for the team as a fashion gal
Faust, our driver.
Secretly obsessed.
Netgalley arc review ✨
Want to Read
June 5, 2025I need it. I want it. I'll get it.
March 5, 2026
6 stars for Cat & Faust!!!!!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC!
Madge Maril's sophomore novel, The Paddock Club is an absolutely delectable read. It follows Cat Cromwell, professional heartbreaker & Faust Ferreira Sanchez, F1 driver. When Cat is hired to break the heart of one of F1's golden boys, she unexpectedly crosses paths with Faust, who is determined to figure her out. What's the worst that could happen??? They fall in love? I sure hope so!
Cat is a character I found myself drawn to from the very beginning. She's a bit jaded on some fronts—love, men, & the wealthy being a few (can you blame her?). Her witty, charmingly awkward, & caring personality is easy to love. I think a lot of people will be able to relate to her fears surrounding love, her family, & her desire to be the one everyone can count on. Her grief is handled beautifully & with care, & I really admire how Madge incorporated it into her story/character. I adored getting to know her, see her growth & watch her open up as the story went on! Faust is a mysterious yet downright charming man who I absolutely love. He is unwaveringly caring, steady, safe, emotionally intelligent. I loved discovering parts of him & his backstory, learning about his life with F1. I adored seeing him unravel in the small intimate ways someone like him does as they fall in love. He fascinated & intrigued me & I just wanted to attach myself to his control-loving, soft-hearted soul & learn everything about him. I LOVE THEM BOTH BAD!!!
The romance! OH! THE ROMANCE!!! The Paddock Club is a masterclass in yearning. Truly. Cat & Faust have an unreal amount of chemistry & tension that feels like a real, living thing throughout the entirety of this story. It was almost mind-boggling just how much these two understood each other, and how well they were able to unravel each other. If I could describe them in one word it would be: inevitable. See also: soulmates, hot, fated, and Hot. I love them. I love their love story, albeit a wee bit unconventional. I love how much they both want it each other, so much so it's almost sickening!!!! THE JOURNAL! i'm going to cry right now.
I can't recommend this one enough!!! Add it to your tbr NOW!!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC!
Madge Maril's sophomore novel, The Paddock Club is an absolutely delectable read. It follows Cat Cromwell, professional heartbreaker & Faust Ferreira Sanchez, F1 driver. When Cat is hired to break the heart of one of F1's golden boys, she unexpectedly crosses paths with Faust, who is determined to figure her out. What's the worst that could happen??? They fall in love? I sure hope so!
Cat is a character I found myself drawn to from the very beginning. She's a bit jaded on some fronts—love, men, & the wealthy being a few (can you blame her?). Her witty, charmingly awkward, & caring personality is easy to love. I think a lot of people will be able to relate to her fears surrounding love, her family, & her desire to be the one everyone can count on. Her grief is handled beautifully & with care, & I really admire how Madge incorporated it into her story/character. I adored getting to know her, see her growth & watch her open up as the story went on! Faust is a mysterious yet downright charming man who I absolutely love. He is unwaveringly caring, steady, safe, emotionally intelligent. I loved discovering parts of him & his backstory, learning about his life with F1. I adored seeing him unravel in the small intimate ways someone like him does as they fall in love. He fascinated & intrigued me & I just wanted to attach myself to his control-loving, soft-hearted soul & learn everything about him. I LOVE THEM BOTH BAD!!!
The romance! OH! THE ROMANCE!!! The Paddock Club is a masterclass in yearning. Truly. Cat & Faust have an unreal amount of chemistry & tension that feels like a real, living thing throughout the entirety of this story. It was almost mind-boggling just how much these two understood each other, and how well they were able to unravel each other. If I could describe them in one word it would be: inevitable. See also: soulmates, hot, fated, and Hot. I love them. I love their love story, albeit a wee bit unconventional. I love how much they both want it each other, so much so it's almost sickening!!!! THE JOURNAL! i'm going to cry right now.
I can't recommend this one enough!!! Add it to your tbr NOW!!!
March 5, 2026
Rating: 5 Stars
The Paddock Club is everything I could ask for in a romance and MORE. Ever since I became a fan of Formula 1, I've been hoping to find a romance set in that world that truly captures the excitement and emotion of the sport. I've tried a couple other books, but none have managed to pull me in until THIS BOOK. From the very first chapters, I was absolutely enamored. I immediately knew this was going to be a favorite for me. This completely delivered everything I wanted from an F1 book, and right before the new season starts!
Faust is, without question, the standard for MMCs. Truly. I do not think anyone will ever compare. The way he listened to Cat, cared for her, and consistently showed up in his perfect brooding way made my heart melt. He was so attentive, thoughtful and present in a way that felt so refreshing compared to other sports romances. I have a personal vendetta against reformed playboy, so anytime a sports romance doesn't lean into that I am VERY happy.
One of my absolute favorite things in this book was the glimpses we got into his journal. Those scenes added such a soft and intimate layer to his character that made me fall in love with him even more. I was legit SQUEALING at every entry. Such a unique and fun way to add in a bit of the male POV without being too much.
This book completely reignited my excitement for F1 romances. It was so perfect and Faust is now one of my fav MMCs ever. I will immediately be picking up a copy of Slipstream, Madge Maril is now an auto buy author after this!
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Paddock Club is everything I could ask for in a romance and MORE. Ever since I became a fan of Formula 1, I've been hoping to find a romance set in that world that truly captures the excitement and emotion of the sport. I've tried a couple other books, but none have managed to pull me in until THIS BOOK. From the very first chapters, I was absolutely enamored. I immediately knew this was going to be a favorite for me. This completely delivered everything I wanted from an F1 book, and right before the new season starts!
Faust is, without question, the standard for MMCs. Truly. I do not think anyone will ever compare. The way he listened to Cat, cared for her, and consistently showed up in his perfect brooding way made my heart melt. He was so attentive, thoughtful and present in a way that felt so refreshing compared to other sports romances. I have a personal vendetta against reformed playboy, so anytime a sports romance doesn't lean into that I am VERY happy.
One of my absolute favorite things in this book was the glimpses we got into his journal. Those scenes added such a soft and intimate layer to his character that made me fall in love with him even more. I was legit SQUEALING at every entry. Such a unique and fun way to add in a bit of the male POV without being too much.
This book completely reignited my excitement for F1 romances. It was so perfect and Faust is now one of my fav MMCs ever. I will immediately be picking up a copy of Slipstream, Madge Maril is now an auto buy author after this!
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
July 11, 2026
This was such a fun and unique take on an F1 romance! If you enjoy Formula 1, slow-burn romance, and a heroine with a mission, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Cat is a model with an unconventional side business—helping women get revenge on the men who broke their hearts. When she’s hired to take down Bernard after he leaves his fiancée, Imogene, at the altar, Cat lands a job as a stylist for an F1 team so she can get close enough to make him fall for her… only to break his heart.
Things don’t exactly go according to plan when Bernard leaves the team, putting Cat’s mission in jeopardy. Enter Faust.
Cat has been an F1 fan her entire life and has secretly had a crush on Faust for years. Faust quickly figures out what Cat is trying to accomplish, and since he has his own reasons for disliking Bernard, he’s more than happy to sit back and watch her plan unfold. But the more time Cat and Faust spend together, the harder it becomes to keep things strictly business.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Cat and Faust. Their relationship developed naturally, and I loved that Faust never tried to force anything. He was patient, supportive, and easy to root for. The Formula 1 setting added a fun backdrop, and the revenge plot kept things entertaining from start to finish.
This is a lower-spice romance with plenty of banter, tension, and heart. If you enjoy F1 romances, slow burns, revenge plots, and a hero who quietly falls first, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
Cat is a model with an unconventional side business—helping women get revenge on the men who broke their hearts. When she’s hired to take down Bernard after he leaves his fiancée, Imogene, at the altar, Cat lands a job as a stylist for an F1 team so she can get close enough to make him fall for her… only to break his heart.
Things don’t exactly go according to plan when Bernard leaves the team, putting Cat’s mission in jeopardy. Enter Faust.
Cat has been an F1 fan her entire life and has secretly had a crush on Faust for years. Faust quickly figures out what Cat is trying to accomplish, and since he has his own reasons for disliking Bernard, he’s more than happy to sit back and watch her plan unfold. But the more time Cat and Faust spend together, the harder it becomes to keep things strictly business.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Cat and Faust. Their relationship developed naturally, and I loved that Faust never tried to force anything. He was patient, supportive, and easy to root for. The Formula 1 setting added a fun backdrop, and the revenge plot kept things entertaining from start to finish.
This is a lower-spice romance with plenty of banter, tension, and heart. If you enjoy F1 romances, slow burns, revenge plots, and a hero who quietly falls first, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
June 7, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
This is the second book in a series and while encouraged, it’s not necessary to read the first book!
Cat Cromwell is like the Robin Hood of dating; if you have a terrible rich man who needs to be publicly embarrassed and shamed, she is your girl. Until she meets her long time crush and ultra famous Formula 1 driver Fausto while working a job. She runs into him again while doing another job (aka dating his former friend and current rival) and he is instantly intrigued.
Cat is an wonderfully layered character; an eldest daughter and sister who holds everything together after the passing of her mother and grandmother. Faust too is a unique character who sees thru every lie and half truth Cat puts before him. They have a true cat and mouse relationship until they decide to give in. I love that the only insight we get into the inner workings of his mind are thru his journal entries. He’s so observant and serious but also so caring and kind with Cat.
This book seamlessly blends high fashion and Formula 1 racing which made for an easy and interesting read.
This is the second book in a series and while encouraged, it’s not necessary to read the first book!
Cat Cromwell is like the Robin Hood of dating; if you have a terrible rich man who needs to be publicly embarrassed and shamed, she is your girl. Until she meets her long time crush and ultra famous Formula 1 driver Fausto while working a job. She runs into him again while doing another job (aka dating his former friend and current rival) and he is instantly intrigued.
Cat is an wonderfully layered character; an eldest daughter and sister who holds everything together after the passing of her mother and grandmother. Faust too is a unique character who sees thru every lie and half truth Cat puts before him. They have a true cat and mouse relationship until they decide to give in. I love that the only insight we get into the inner workings of his mind are thru his journal entries. He’s so observant and serious but also so caring and kind with Cat.
This book seamlessly blends high fashion and Formula 1 racing which made for an easy and interesting read.
April 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the early review copy! I was very excited to receive an early copy of *The Paddock Club* after enjoying *SlipStream*.
This novel follows Cat, who is hired to break the heart of serial fiancé and F1 driver Bernard Boudalaire after he leaves yet another woman at the altar. Working undercover for an F1 team, Cat's plan begins to unravel when Bernard exits her team, leading her to work with a quiet driver named Faust.
I found *SlipStream* to be more enjoyable than this one. The premise of Cat being paid to break people's hearts felt a bit far-fetched to me, and I thought we spent too much time in her unrealistic romantic situation instead of focusing on the potential real romance with Faust. For the story to be believable, I felt that Cat needed to actually date Bernard for a longer period. Additionally, I struggled to connect with either Faust or Cat due to the confusing storyline. However, I did like Faust and wished I could have felt a stronger emotional connection to him. I admire Cat for her dedication to taking care of her family.
This novel follows Cat, who is hired to break the heart of serial fiancé and F1 driver Bernard Boudalaire after he leaves yet another woman at the altar. Working undercover for an F1 team, Cat's plan begins to unravel when Bernard exits her team, leading her to work with a quiet driver named Faust.
I found *SlipStream* to be more enjoyable than this one. The premise of Cat being paid to break people's hearts felt a bit far-fetched to me, and I thought we spent too much time in her unrealistic romantic situation instead of focusing on the potential real romance with Faust. For the story to be believable, I felt that Cat needed to actually date Bernard for a longer period. Additionally, I struggled to connect with either Faust or Cat due to the confusing storyline. However, I did like Faust and wished I could have felt a stronger emotional connection to him. I admire Cat for her dedication to taking care of her family.
July 28, 2026
A new Formula 1 romance that focuses on a fashionista's introduction into the world of F1. I enjoyed the clash of two worlds and the dynamic between Cat & Faust. Not quite an enemies to lovers storyline but at times the pair exchanged barbs and witty banter that made it almost feel like an enemies to lover trope. I once again wanted more insight into the actual F1 racing aspect of the sport not just the glitz and glam of the amenities and supporters of the sport.
At times I found the storyline to be hard to follow but it might have been the format (kindle) or the e-ARC format. However the last 30% of the novel I could not put this book down as I had fallen in love with Cat & her personal growth throughout the novel, so I wanted her to find her HEA.
At times I found the storyline to be hard to follow but it might have been the format (kindle) or the e-ARC format. However the last 30% of the novel I could not put this book down as I had fallen in love with Cat & her personal growth throughout the novel, so I wanted her to find her HEA.
August 7, 2026
OMG YES I love Madge Maril's books sooo much. I am *obsessed* with SLIPSTREAM so I was both anxious and excited to start THE PADDOCK CLUB and it did NOT disappoint. It is extremely sexy (see: caretaking kink), smart, and funny, with a very clear sense of voice, and heart-racing F1 vibes. But it also has much to say on a number of really significant topics -- the patriarchy, misogyny, class and wealth, and the fashion industry -- and it handles these conversations deftly and with impact. It struck the perfect balance and I enjoyed every page of this. FAUST THE MAN THAT YOU ARE. CAT THE WOMAN THAT *YOU* ARE! 10/10.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. THE PADDOCK CLUB is out now!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. THE PADDOCK CLUB is out now!
July 19, 2026
Four stars for a fun and addictive read. Plot wise it was slightly unhinged and some elements I didn’t get or needed to be stronger to make sense, but Cat and Faust were glorious and the writing was great, very entertaining and interesting chemistry as well.
July 21, 2026
I think Madge Maril might be one of my fav writers now. I loved loved loved Slipstream, and this read was also amazing. And it goes without saying that this book as well has the best „to be loved, is to be seen“ vibe, that I love. The MMC is just chefs kiss. We love an attentive man.
Want to Read
February 11, 2026preread: guess who got the arc? me! ♡ ︎
July 18, 2026
I’m obsessed with this book and now I need to learn more about F1
April 10, 2026
I love the slipstream universe and I never want to leave. I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. Cat and Faust are my angel babies and I need them more than I need air or food.
July 23, 2026
I had to get this on Spotify, so I could listen to it on 3.5x speed (Libby only goes to 3x) because I wanted it to be over faster
February 11, 2026
I’m calling it now. The Paddock Club is going to be one of my favorite books of 2026. I loved this so much. The plot was well written, the characters were great, and I’m obsessed with Faust. Cat was so relatable and I wish I could fall into a job like that accidentally (fashion, not getting paid to break hearts). I also really loved a peek behind the curtain of luxury of F1 and fashion.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ebook in exchange for an honest review, all opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ebook in exchange for an honest review, all opinions expressed are my own.
June 25, 2026
eARC and physical arc|
Heartbreak and lipstick and fast cars oh my!
This book was a masterclass in intentionality. Every word, reference, and scene felt perfectly placed. To put it simply, Madge Maril is the voice we need in romance right now. The Paddock Club is feminist, detailed, and well-researched; with a modern day Robin Hood for those of us who carry our lip liner as a sword.
Maril takes the idea of an F1 romance and brings the magnifying glass closer. This book begs us to examine and confront the sheer wealth that keeps the sport afloat. The way the story effortlessly is able to discuss class and wealth while still being steamy and full of heart is a feat.
Cat and Faust are truly examples of people with a hard shell and a soft center. The character work done with these two really allows the story to flow through themes of grief, vulnerability, class, and loyalty. They not only play each other in chess literally but they play each other in the way guarded people always do. Throughout, the story we get to watch the push and pull of them. Watch them carefully arrange pieces on a board until they finally admit that they are on the same team.
This is a love story for those with buckets of loyalty and walls built to high heaven. It’s a story about not only finding the person who can see right through you but what it means to allow yourself to be seen. To be known and cared for.
If I loved this book less I’d be able to talk about it more. Just look at me and my 500+ highlights.
Heartbreak and lipstick and fast cars oh my!
This book was a masterclass in intentionality. Every word, reference, and scene felt perfectly placed. To put it simply, Madge Maril is the voice we need in romance right now. The Paddock Club is feminist, detailed, and well-researched; with a modern day Robin Hood for those of us who carry our lip liner as a sword.
Maril takes the idea of an F1 romance and brings the magnifying glass closer. This book begs us to examine and confront the sheer wealth that keeps the sport afloat. The way the story effortlessly is able to discuss class and wealth while still being steamy and full of heart is a feat.
Cat and Faust are truly examples of people with a hard shell and a soft center. The character work done with these two really allows the story to flow through themes of grief, vulnerability, class, and loyalty. They not only play each other in chess literally but they play each other in the way guarded people always do. Throughout, the story we get to watch the push and pull of them. Watch them carefully arrange pieces on a board until they finally admit that they are on the same team.
This is a love story for those with buckets of loyalty and walls built to high heaven. It’s a story about not only finding the person who can see right through you but what it means to allow yourself to be seen. To be known and cared for.
If I loved this book less I’d be able to talk about it more. Just look at me and my 500+ highlights.
Want to Read
September 10, 2025I need this like I need air.
April 10, 2026
y’all are not ready
July 16, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC!
4.5 stars
“You don’t even see it. How you bring color back to people. How you’re here and then—it’s all fucking gray when you’re gone.”
Madge Maril did it again!!! There is something about her writing that is transfixing and completely pulls you in to the story. The banter, the romance, the tension!! Cat and Faust, as individuals, were uniquely compelling characters, but together, they were electric. This was an exciting F1 romance with complex main characters who I absolutely fell in love with. Faust is on a whole other level of book boyfriends!! Also, Cat could step on me and I'd thank her.
Cat was all sharp edges and quick wit. I was obsessed with the way her mind worked and how brilliant she was when it came to all things fashion. The author cheekily referenced the infamous cerulean scene in the Devil Wears Prada, but at times, that's how it felt when Cat talked fashion - and I LOVED it. She was very clearly used to being in control so it was fun to see the way Faust kinda turned her whole world on its axis. The way he cared for her and praised her - ugh will be living in my head rent free for the foreseeable future.
Faust contained multitudes. He was the grumpiest feminist who was so thoughtful in the way he lived his life. He was a quiet man who loved quietly, but in a manner that held so much weight. He was so perceptive and he definitely used that to love Cat in earnest and in all the ways she didn't even know to ask for. Also, his mouth??? His praise??? Good lord, he didn't say much, but when he did, he did not hold back. It was intoxicating - I can only imagine how Cat felt lmao. He was just ugh such a good man with the best heart. I need more!!
The plot was entertaining and I really enjoyed all of the side characters!! Slip Stream was my first F1 romance and I just love how Madge Maril writes this fictional world. It's so exciting and I can't wait to see what she does next.
This was very nearly a full 5 stars, but I felt like there were things that were skipped over or that should have been expanded on. I also was a little bummed that there was no epilogue (the last chapter basically was one but I felt like we needed just a little more past them getting back together) but that's me being greedy. I still wholeheartedly loved this and would highly recommend.
4.5 stars
“You don’t even see it. How you bring color back to people. How you’re here and then—it’s all fucking gray when you’re gone.”
Madge Maril did it again!!! There is something about her writing that is transfixing and completely pulls you in to the story. The banter, the romance, the tension!! Cat and Faust, as individuals, were uniquely compelling characters, but together, they were electric. This was an exciting F1 romance with complex main characters who I absolutely fell in love with. Faust is on a whole other level of book boyfriends!! Also, Cat could step on me and I'd thank her.
Cat was all sharp edges and quick wit. I was obsessed with the way her mind worked and how brilliant she was when it came to all things fashion. The author cheekily referenced the infamous cerulean scene in the Devil Wears Prada, but at times, that's how it felt when Cat talked fashion - and I LOVED it. She was very clearly used to being in control so it was fun to see the way Faust kinda turned her whole world on its axis. The way he cared for her and praised her - ugh will be living in my head rent free for the foreseeable future.
Faust contained multitudes. He was the grumpiest feminist who was so thoughtful in the way he lived his life. He was a quiet man who loved quietly, but in a manner that held so much weight. He was so perceptive and he definitely used that to love Cat in earnest and in all the ways she didn't even know to ask for. Also, his mouth??? His praise??? Good lord, he didn't say much, but when he did, he did not hold back. It was intoxicating - I can only imagine how Cat felt lmao. He was just ugh such a good man with the best heart. I need more!!
The plot was entertaining and I really enjoyed all of the side characters!! Slip Stream was my first F1 romance and I just love how Madge Maril writes this fictional world. It's so exciting and I can't wait to see what she does next.
This was very nearly a full 5 stars, but I felt like there were things that were skipped over or that should have been expanded on. I also was a little bummed that there was no epilogue (the last chapter basically was one but I felt like we needed just a little more past them getting back together) but that's me being greedy. I still wholeheartedly loved this and would highly recommend.
August 10, 2026
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This review is really hard for me to write because I adore Slipstream and Madge Maril. Unfortunately, I really struggled with The Paddock Club. I do want to preface this review by saying that even though this book was not for me, it definitely could be perfect for someone else!
The biggest struggle I had with this book was the romance itself. To be completely honest, I couldn't really feel much of a romance at all. There was extremely limited interaction between Faust and Cat for the first 50% of the book. There was not much development in their chemistry whatsoever. And then BAM! right at the 50% mark they were all over each other? I had to go back and reread the chapters leading up to it a couple of times because I was so confused. Yes, there was attraction and some banter there, but nothing that made me believe their "relationship" existed, let alone on an upward trajectory. Throughout the rest of the book, I was left so confused at the almost instantaneous feelings that they began to develop for each other. It just felt so unbelievable. Any and every little moment or interaction felt more like a box getting checked off than an organic romance.
This book primarily focused on Cat and her own personal journey. While I absolutely love a book with self-discovery and growth, I absolutely think that it began to hurt the story as a romance. This book felt like a book about Cat alone, and every other character was a side character, including Faust. We hardly got to know anyone on an intimate level except for Cat. But even with Cat's backstory, I still felt unconnected to her.
I definitely appreciated the author's attempt at bringing the flaws of the sport to the forefront, specifically the staggering wealth gap prominently on display. I'm all for the "eat the rich" sentiment. However, I do wish that this theme didn't become so repetitive. We definitely did not need to read about it THAT many times.
I'm really sad that this one didn't live up to what I was expecting. There were definitely moments that I did enjoy, like the journal entries that Faust wrote about Cat. However, as a whole, this one just wasn't for me.
This review is really hard for me to write because I adore Slipstream and Madge Maril. Unfortunately, I really struggled with The Paddock Club. I do want to preface this review by saying that even though this book was not for me, it definitely could be perfect for someone else!
The biggest struggle I had with this book was the romance itself. To be completely honest, I couldn't really feel much of a romance at all. There was extremely limited interaction between Faust and Cat for the first 50% of the book. There was not much development in their chemistry whatsoever. And then BAM! right at the 50% mark they were all over each other? I had to go back and reread the chapters leading up to it a couple of times because I was so confused. Yes, there was attraction and some banter there, but nothing that made me believe their "relationship" existed, let alone on an upward trajectory. Throughout the rest of the book, I was left so confused at the almost instantaneous feelings that they began to develop for each other. It just felt so unbelievable. Any and every little moment or interaction felt more like a box getting checked off than an organic romance.
This book primarily focused on Cat and her own personal journey. While I absolutely love a book with self-discovery and growth, I absolutely think that it began to hurt the story as a romance. This book felt like a book about Cat alone, and every other character was a side character, including Faust. We hardly got to know anyone on an intimate level except for Cat. But even with Cat's backstory, I still felt unconnected to her.
I definitely appreciated the author's attempt at bringing the flaws of the sport to the forefront, specifically the staggering wealth gap prominently on display. I'm all for the "eat the rich" sentiment. However, I do wish that this theme didn't become so repetitive. We definitely did not need to read about it THAT many times.
I'm really sad that this one didn't live up to what I was expecting. There were definitely moments that I did enjoy, like the journal entries that Faust wrote about Cat. However, as a whole, this one just wasn't for me.
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