Isabelle Pearson is a successful real estate agent in Monaco, still reminiscing about the night she spent with Nathan Rhodes — a night that ended with her slipping away before dawn, convinced she wasn’t worthy of his kindness. The man she ghosted after one unforgettable night suddenly returns to her life, forcing her to confront the chemistry that still lingers between them.
Nathan Rhodes doesn’t do casual — especially not with women who disappear without a trace. But when fate throws Isa back into his life, he’s determined to uncover the truth behind her sudden exit. He wants answers, and he wants her — even if it means fighting insecurities and fears together or on their own.
As their rekindled connection spirals into something real, Isa and Nathan must navigate between their sparking moments and professional lives. But when the checkered flag falls, will they walk away as old flames or will they finally admit that some connections are worth fighting for?
Friends to lovers Mutual Crush/Pining Slow burn Golden Retriever MMC Formula 1 driver Real estate agent Client Forbidden Relationship
This was a sweet low stakes romance, with a slow burn between F1 driver Nathan, and real estate agent Izzy. Nathan is such a gentleman, he notices all the small details, is patient, comes up with some charmingly thoughtful gifts, and they have cute nicknames for each other. Izzy is hardworking, awkward and clumsy at times, but is very passionate. She restricts herself from pursuing Nathan to avoid damage to her working reputation as his real estate agent, but he makes it very difficult to stay away. They have mutual crushes on each other, have a lot in common, and have an easy chemistry together that grows over time. It's low drama and conflict with the sweetest characters, a touch of spice, and has a light Rom-Com feel. This can be read as standalone, but I'd recommend reading Red Queen for better insight on the side characters.
"She knows I'm being a chicken because she's just about to introduce me to my dream woman. I am so fucked. Ultimately fucked"
'I smile at her, getting lost in her eyes for a moment. She's ethereal. I'm still not fully convinced I'm not dreaming'
"How can a man be so beautiful? His dimples are to die for, I swear"
This is a 2.5 star read. I want to preface by saying I read this book as an ARC, so thank you to the author for trusting me!
After reading the first book in the series I was nervous as it really fell flat on a lot of areas. HOWEVER this book was a significant improvement on the first and I read this within 24 hours. It still wasn’t my favourite and I believe the author could have made the story longer to fill in some gaps or dive deeper into character development. The focus on Izzy’s job could have been stronger and the racing aspect could have had more of a focus. The romance was okay, but nothing special due to the fact that it took 80% of the book for Nathan to stop being a client, the romance was quick and short. Overall the Author did a great job at improving the book and I am excited to see how their writing continues to improve!
Thank you to The Naughty Nook for this ARC in exchange of my honest review.
This is about formula 1 driver Nathan and real estate agent Isa. They share a drunken night talking a year before the story unfolds - something neither one has forgotten.
I think it would have been beneficial for the book to have been worked through a bit more, the language was too explanatory for me - it told me how to feel, it told me what had happened, rather than letting me experience it or feel it as the characters felt it. The characters didn’t overcome any obstacles, so it didn’t really offer character growth or advances to the story.
I liked the premise of the book, it was cute and the idea of the story was promising. I hadn’t read a sports romance before so I thought a short book (around 150 pages) would be a good start, and I wanted to break off the heavy books with a quicker, lighter read.
"I love when a man is not afraid to make noises." — Isa. 💚 F1 driver MMC 💚 Real estate agent FMC 💚 First person dual POV 💚 One night stand fling 💚 He’s a golden retriever 💚 Instalove 💚 Standalone with HEA My expression while reading this book: 😬 I have to say, the author was really good at marketing. The character art was cute. The tropes were intriguing. The content ... Eh 😐 At this point, it’s my fault. I see "golden retriever MMC" and I click like a clown walking straight into the trap. Every. Single. Time. Personally, I thought the premise of Before Dawn sounded very romcom. We’ve got a successful F1 driver. A real estate agent closing million dollar deals. They’re both at the top of their careers. Supportive families. Great friends. So where’s the conflict? Oh right. There isn’t one. Nathan and Isa’s lives, and their romance, felt way too smooth. No tension. No wrong turns. Nothing ever goes wrong. They’re just walking this perfectly straight line. Before Dawn gave me nothing to worry about and no reason to get emotionally attached. Why would I, when they already have everything and don’t even have to work hard for it? The entire plot is basically just Isa failing to move on after their ONS, they meet again, and surprise!! Nathan loves her too. THE END. That’s not a story. That’s a scheduling coincidence. No one wants to read about rich people just having fun unless there’s something dramatic going on or they’re killing each other. Also, how could this man won the Monaco Grand Prix and has ZERO drama? No crazy fans? No paparazzi? No sponsors breathing down his neck? Sir. Be serious 😂 Don’t even get me started on the ONS. It’s off page. OFF. PAGE. That’s the emotional foundation of the relationship and we don’t even get to SEE IT? Dear author, you can’t just go, "trust me, it was magical it changed their lives". Absolutely no. Show me the magic. Don’t just throw us one year later time skip. What exactly made them fall for each other ... I??? don’t??? understand??? Then there's the writing, very ... Whew. Both povs sound exactly the same and weirdly childish. These people are in their mid 20s but act like teenagers. They call each other "my crush". Nathan has a celebrity standee in his room. Isa whines to her best friend so much that even the friend tells her to grow up (I completely agree). I genuinely questioned how those two manage to keep their jobs. Adults don’t have to be boring, but they should at least act like they pay taxes. And don’t tell me this is set in Monaco when it has the personality of a random American suburb. A few French words sprinkled in isn’t atmosphere. Side characters? Barely exist. No depth. No clear descriptions. Nothing. I get that this is part of an interconnected standalone series, but come on. Help your new readers out a bit next time, yeah?
Read time: 1hr 22min Rating: 6 stars Favorite Chapter: 17 Favorite quote (this whole section): “Nath? Guess what?” I say excitedly on the phone, waiting for his answer, but all I hear is faint music and loud panting. “Are you okay?” “I… Yes. Sorry. I’m just in the middle of the workout.” And he still picked up the phone. Talk about priorities. I don’t think I could fall more for this man.
****Note: this is an ARC read
I AM LIKE OVERFLOWING WITH LOVE. Let me just say that the entire time I read this book I #1 didnt put it down and #2 didnt stop smiling for even a moment. DARE I SAY this is one of my favorite books in the whole wide world. I didnt think it could get BETTER after Red Queen because I absolutely adored it but OH MY LORD I was screaming, laughing, crying, my parents literally had to come check on me because I was just so in love. WITH EVERY PART OF IT. This book has my soul I dont even know how to explain it any more than that. OKAY so lets talk
Isa: AN AMAZING WOMAN I love that she works so hard and I love that she makes time to care for all her friends. The nicknames OMLL they have my heart but thats for both her and Nathan. Theyre just so perfect for eachother its unreal.
Nathan: UHMMM SOOOOO hes literally a dream. The way he notices every detail about her, the way he freaks out when shes nearby AHHH just has me in love. THE FACT HE READS and OH MY LORD him picking up the phone for her during his workout. Okay so this book singlehandedly made me believe that maybe love is out there somewhere. and if it is can it be Nathan.... anyway yeaaa...
Mateo and Rosa: While they werent the center of the book OH MY LOVES ive missed them so much and I adored seeing them again. The moment their names popped up it was like I was in love with them all over again. I am so happy to see how their stories continued. AND not to mention that Nathans relationship with Rosa UGH one I yearn for because they are just such good friends.
OVERALL I adored this book and reccomend it to anyone and everyone it was perfection put on paper and I ADORE THE AUTHOR BRIDGET TAYLOR for writing it. I need more like ASAP im so lucky I read this on valentines because biubfiuiniunfierfinr I FELT MUCH LESS ALONE. ANYWAY EVERYONE READ THIS BOOK.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Before Dawn is a heartfelt and engaging romance that delivers emotional depth in a short and satisfying read. Although this is book two in The Pit Stop series, it can be read completely as a standalone. Isabelle Pearson is a successful real estate agent in Monaco who still carries the weight of insecurities from her past, especially when it comes to the one man she ghosted after a single unforgettable night. Nathan Rhodes, a Formula 1 driver, does not do casual and has never stopped wondering why Isa disappeared. When fate brings them back together, the unresolved tension and lingering chemistry are impossible to ignore. This is a true slow burn romance built on mutual pining, emotional growth, and quiet vulnerability. Nathan is patient, kind, and emotionally grounded, making him an incredibly endearing main character. His steady presence allows Isa the space to confront her fears and learn to believe in her own worth. The Formula 1 backdrop adds a fun and glamorous element without overpowering the romance. The story focuses on connection, communication, and choosing love even when it feels risky. Before Dawn is perfect for readers who enjoy friends to lovers romances, soft but strong heroes, and character driven love stories. A lovely addition to the series and an easy recommendation. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Before Dawn book DELIVERED ON EVERY LEVEL! It has the perfect mix of angst and second-chance tension. Isa and Nathan’s chemistry is so addictive and we love a book with mutual pining 🙈, and OMG WHAT A MAN NATHAN RHODES IS.
Isabelle Pearson is a successful real estate agent in Monaco, still reminiscing about the night she spent with Nathan Rhodes – a night that ended with her slipping away before dawn, convinced she wasn’t worthy of his kindness. The man she ghosted after one unforgettable night suddenly returns to her life, forcing her to confront the chemistry that still lingers between them.
Nathan Rhodes doesn’t do casual, especially not with women who disappear without a trace. But when fate throws Isa back into his life, he’s determined to uncover the truth behind her sudden exit. He wants answers, and he wants her – even if it means fighting insecurities and fears together or on their own.
As their rekindled connection spirals into something real, Isa and Nathan must navigate between their sparking moments and professional lives. But when the checkered flag falls, will they walk away as old flames or will they finally admit that some connections are worth fighting for?
If you love: Friends to lovers Slow burn Mutual pining fuck it moment Friends to lovers Golden retriever mmc Real estate agent x f1 driver Before dawn is YOUR BOOK!!
Nathan's cinnamon roll nature just melted me — his thoughtful gifting and the way he pours genuine love into every gesture is utterly pure. You can’t help but see the effort he puts in, and honestly, I would’ve fallen for him too, hook, line, and sinker! Isa’s shyness is so relatable, and knowing the heartfelt reason behind it only made her more endearing. I loved how honest they are when they’re drunk — their raw, unfiltered conversations made me smile so much! And their shared obsession with One Direction and that Niall-inspired board? Absolute gold! It had me completely sold on their story.
But, I’ve got to admit, a few things nagged at me. First, the quickness of their chat about Isa ghosting Nathan a year ago felt rushed — I needed more depth, more clarity to really feel the weight of that moment. Next, I really wanted to see Nathan sit down with Reed one-on-one to finally confront his advances on Isa — that weak handshake just didn’t cut it; I needed him to call him out properly. And that last chapter? Absolutely perfect — such a sweet ending, a heartfelt bridge between this story and the first book, leaving me all warm inside.
This story completely consumed me in the quietest, most emotional way possible. 🫶🏻 Reading Before Dawn felt like living inside Isabella’s thoughts, her hesitation, her vulnerability, and the way she slowly allowed herself to feel something she couldn’t ignore. I loved how raw and authentic her character felt. She wasn’t perfect, and that made her journey even more powerful. Watching her navigate her emotions, especially with Nathan, felt intimate and deeply personal. (Ahh I love them 💗)
Nathan brought this calm intensity that balanced everything about Isabella. Their connection wasn’t rushed it built slowly, with tension, softness, and emotional depth that made every moment feel significant. The atmosphere, the writing, and the emotional weight behind their relationship made it impossible to stop reading. It’s one of those stories where you don’t just read it, you feel it. 💗🩷🥰
If your looking for a sweet little story, they this is for you.
Nath is the definition of Cinnamon roll. He’s such the cuties, kinda hearted, guy. How many guys will stop and pet a stray cat? None but Nathan.
They had already met a year prior. Although Nathan was drunk and she told him her name is Izzy. But when Rosa introduced them, he’s told her name is Isabelle.
Unable to place her to that night, at first. Isa is a little upset about it. Because yes she’s had the biggest crush on him, even before that night.
But he’s now her client, with her selling his place and helping him buy somewhere. And she lives by the code of don’t mix business with pleasure. Not wanting to get a reputation and destroy her career.
But staying away romantically is becoming hard. With both pining for each other.
I absolutely LOVE Nath. He’s such the sweetest guy. My heart swooned so much over him.
Before Dawn by Bridget Taylor is a Formula 1 Racing Sports Romance that centers around an FMC that is finally coming into her own as a Realtor to Monaco’s elite and an MMC who is a successful driver with a stoic exterior that shields his cinnamon roll center. They had an almost fling once before but when they’re thrown back together will they restart their engines? (l’m sorry I couldn’t help myself 😂)
Tropes: 🩷Sports Romance 🩷Brother’s Best Friend’s Brother 🩷Second Chance
The book is like chatting with a best friend. Like if your friend was said "Can I tell you about this group of friends in Monaco and all their drama?" I am aware that sounds weird but it's the only way l can describe it. 😂 It was just a lovely read that was pure joy which I needed desperately.
I selected this book and was lucky enough to be approved as an ARC reader.
Before Dawn is an absolute treat for anyone who loves the high stakes world of Formula 1 mixed with a slow burn, heartfelt romance. Bridget Taylor does a fantastic job of balancing the technical intensity of the racetrack with the quiet, emotional moments that happen behind the scenes! Set against the glamorous backdrop of Monaco and the Formula 1 circuit, it’s a story about second chances, emotional growth, and choosing love even when it feels risky.
The only reason I’m giving this 4 stars instead of 5 is that the pacing felt a little rushed during the final few chapters. I would have loved just a bit more aftermath to sit with the characters after the climax.
Perfect for fans of friends-to-lovers tropes and character-driven stories with soft but strong heroes. It’s a short, satisfying, and easy recommendation!
I received an arc from author Bridget Taylor in exchange for an honest review; all thoughts are my own. Thank you to Bridget Taylor for the arc!
Before Dawn follows Isabelle and Nathan as they navigate a professional relationship as realtor and client, while also fighting lingering feelings for each other. It’s a light, easy read, perfect if you need something quick to help reach your reading goals.
The storyline and characters had a lot of potential, I just feel like the writing fell a bit flat. The style was a bit hard to follow, and there was quite a bit of telling rather than showing. I think it could’ve definitely been drawn out with a bit more detail. With that being said, I still think it was a fun read, and I enjoyed it!
Would I recommend this book? Not likely, unfortunately.
Before Dawn slowly found its way into my heart without me even realizing it… and now I need at least 100 more pages of Nathan and Isa.
Nathan and Isa’s story is all soft moments, lingering looks, and that slow, aching kind of pining that makes you feel everything.
Isa’s insecurities felt so real, the way she holds herself back, thinking she isn’t worthy of something good… it hurt in the most familiar way. But Nathan? He just stays. Patient, gentle, never rushing her but never letting her push him away either. He sees her, truly, and makes her see herself the same way. The way he’s so sure about her, so steady and intentional… yeah, I completely melted.
It’s not loud or dramatic, just warm, comforting, and full of love that grows slowly but surely. And honestly… we all deserve a Nathan who doesn’t let us run before dawn 💙✨
Before Dawn is a quick second chance romance set in the world of Formula 1 and Monaco. Isa and Nathan share a complicated past, and their reunion brings up a lot of lingering feelings and unfinished business.
I really liked Nathan as the MMC. He is patient, caring, and easy to root for, and the chemistry between him and Isa made their story engaging. Their history together added an emotional layer that kept me invested.
Because the book is on the shorter side, some parts of the story felt a bit rushed and I would have loved more time with the characters and their relationship development.
Overall, it was an enjoyable, easy read with second chance romance, emotional tension, and a sweet but devoted hero.
This book is the perfect palate cleanser. It is the perfect length if you’re looking for a quick sports romance, this is your sign! Isa and Nathan are definitely what I would co sides second chance friends to lovers.
Nathan was my favorite. He is definitely like a golden retriever that constantly seeks reassurance. Both Isa and Nathan are very relatable. They have their insecurities and it bleeds in to their relationship, however they meet each other with understanding, encouragement and love.
I sincerely hope I find my Nathan because I know I will be fiercely loved and well taken care of.
I cannot wait to see what Bridget Taylor writes next!!
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧. Just want to preface that I received an advanced copy of this book, and would like to thank the author for that. With the book, it was a cute, short romance that felt like there were little to no stakes in the budding relationship. The reader must decide if that is something that they’d enjoy. It was fast-paced, and I was able to finish it within one sitting. The characters were enjoyable, if not a little two-dimensional. Wished there had been a little more time in flushing out certain plot points; perhaps it would have benefited from more content. But I enjoyed my read of the book.
This is the second novel of the Pit Stop series by Bridget Taylor and this story was short and sweet. It was shorter than I expected, but it did not really bother me because they were just really sweet. The story follows Isa, who is a real estate agent, and Nathan, who is a Formula 1 driver. What I found really sweet is how he made her a playlist from songs that she listens and songs that remind him of her :). I liked how they got to know each other before jumping in a relationship but he still showed her that he cared about her. I did like Red Queen better, but this was still such a fun read!
I received this book as ARC, it was my first book to receive as an arc and I’m very grateful to the author that I was trusted to read it before it was released. It had a great plot as well as characters. My personal preference is that I wish it was longer because the characters were fun to read about and I did wish I could have had more of Nathan and Isa’s relationship blossom after he isn’t her client anymore. Overall I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it to romance book readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Ahhhh, I loved this 🥹 Very quick to read as it’s on the shorter side (not even 150 pages) and fast paced, so it’s a lovely pallet cleanser! I can definitely tell there were some improvements in the writing style from the first book to this one and I’m so happy for this lovely author!😍 While it’s on the shorter side, it didn’t really feel rushed, I only thought that they were mostly already together and were sort of making excuses to not be, but it wasn’t really bothersome to me. Definitely looking forward to more books by Bridget!🥰
Book 2 of The Pit Stop series. Can be read as a standalone.
'But when the checkered flag falls, will they walk away as old flames or will they finally admit that some connections are worth fighting for?'
The characters were very appealing and likeable. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building continues to be solidly drawn. All in all a very good addition to the series. Recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Slow burns aren’t my thing but I loved Nathan and Isa’s innocent but awkward moments. They had instant attraction but neither seemed to know how to act on it before being caught in a professional relationship that slowed them down even more. I will say it seemed like the author got lost in the story causing some minor plot holes but I loved that she showed so many moments with Mateo and Rosa. I hope we see more of these two couples in future books. Della needs her story. Reed needs a redemption story as well!
This was a sweet sports romance, short in length and I could finish it in one sitting. I loved Nathan's cinnamon roll behaviour. His gifting habit and the idea behind every gift is so sweet! I see his efforts and honestly, I too would have melted for him! Isa is a bit shy, but the reason behind it is very valid. I love how honest the two of them are when they're drunk! Their love for One Direction, and that Niall character board, had me sold!!!!!!
Now there were a few things that troubled me. First was the fact that their conversation regarding Isa ghosting Nathan one year ago was too quick. I felt like this conversation needed more clarity. Secondly, the incident where an unknown man who came with a rock in front of Nathan's garage was not explained. I expected it to be either a crazy fan or some serious issue who wanted to hurt Nathan, but it was left to the reader's imagination. Thirdly, I wanted to see a one to one conversation of Nathan with Reed, to confront him regarding his advances to Isa, because a firm handshake failed to pass the message.
To be honest, I'm excited to see other couples in this series. This particular book gave a lot of teasers and I just cannot wait!!
PS : The last chapter is so sweet, a much needed connector between the first book and this book.
I love racing! I have since I was young. I loved reading this book! I couldn't put it down. I was hooked from start to finish. This book is definitely a page turner. I couldn't tell what was going to happen next. The relationship between Nathan & Isa is a beautifully written one. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I lived for Nathan’s pov, he was gone for Isa from the start. Nathan pays attention to the small things, hello who makes a playlist before even winning the girl over? Nathan deserves a gold star, and well he found it in Isa
Also, loved the anxious cinnamonroll vibes. An easy read that puts a smile on your face!
I barely got into this book before dropping it. It desperately needs another edit - the tone swings from narrative to descriptive for Isa, and Nathan? I quit after a change in tense, but he was already putting my back up with how immature he sounded.
Add in the weird song references, I'm sorry but it reads like bad fanfic.
I really enjoyed this book. Some parts did seem kind of rushed/under developed. But the story was good overall. It’s a cute, quick read. I’m so grateful I was able to read this as an arc and so excited to see what else this author will write. :)
This series is just so dang cute! I cannot get enough of it! Its just sitting in that warm fuzzy read column! Nathan and Isa fit that friends to lovers category so well!
Nathan is looking to sell his home and find something new and his friends direct him to Isa. What he doesn't remember is that they have met before, and might have even shared a kiss. But once he signs that contract to bring her on, all chances of romance are off till she can sell his home and get him into a new one. Cant be that hard during the F1 season right?!
Such a fun cute read and if you are expecting lota of spice, its a slow burn of slow burn that you have to wait out. It goes fast so don't blink because it was a speedy read for me.
I LOVED NATHAN! He’s such an insecure golden retriever. You honestly just want to give him a hug. This was a great story about a racer who has one innocent night with his dream girl who slips away, until he meets her again. She’s his realtor and his client, so he’s off limits.