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Make Your Move
Reese Maddox is the kind of driver who’s relied on raw talent and unshakable confidence to get her to the top. But when that approach stops being enough, she’s recruited into Formula Next—the all-female racing academy designed to fast-track drivers to Formula 1. Reese is fearless, flashy, and knows how to put on a show. But at Formula Next, raw talent isn’t enough, and Reese is about to learn what it really means to be coached.
Sloane Foster was once the next big thing in Formula 1 until a crash ended her career and made her retreat from the spotlight. Now, she's back—this time on the other side of the circuit, tasked with coaching the next generation of racers. She’s not looking for redemption, and she’s definitely not looking for complications. But Reese is all fire and temptation, and keeping things professional becomes harder with every stolen glance and late-night debrief.
The rules are clear. The lines are drawn. But in a world fueled by adrenaline and ambition, one bold move could change everything.
Sloane Foster was once the next big thing in Formula 1 until a crash ended her career and made her retreat from the spotlight. Now, she's back—this time on the other side of the circuit, tasked with coaching the next generation of racers. She’s not looking for redemption, and she’s definitely not looking for complications. But Reese is all fire and temptation, and keeping things professional becomes harder with every stolen glance and late-night debrief.
The rules are clear. The lines are drawn. But in a world fueled by adrenaline and ambition, one bold move could change everything.
384 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2026
About the author
Melissa Brayden
33 books2,934 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
April 28, 2026
4,5 ⭐
I never would have thought that racing could be so sexy. Sloane has hung up her racing career and wants nothing more to do with F1. Until she returns as a favor to her best friend to coach young women in driving. Sloane and Reese’s first encounter is hilarious, and I laughed my head off. I immediately loved the amazing chemistry between the two of them. Sparks flew, lightning struck, and thunder rolled. And the banter? Great! It was just fantastic.
The combination of that connection with the friendship that develops between Reese and the other female drivers was just perfect. It was lighthearted and just fun to watch the women race.
What disappointed me a bit—and is why I’m not giving it a full 5 stars—is the conflict toward the end of the book. I loved the great, healthy communication between Sloane and Reese throughout the entire book. It was mature and just felt real. This conflict, on the other hand… I don’t want to spoil anything, but it didn’t quite fit after all the development between Sloane and Reese. If there’s such healthy communication, why take it away all of a sudden?
Nevertheless, it’s an absolutely great and heartwarming book with strong women. I’m already looking forward to the second part… maybe it’ll be about Veronika? A great woman! Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
I never would have thought that racing could be so sexy. Sloane has hung up her racing career and wants nothing more to do with F1. Until she returns as a favor to her best friend to coach young women in driving. Sloane and Reese’s first encounter is hilarious, and I laughed my head off. I immediately loved the amazing chemistry between the two of them. Sparks flew, lightning struck, and thunder rolled. And the banter? Great! It was just fantastic.
The combination of that connection with the friendship that develops between Reese and the other female drivers was just perfect. It was lighthearted and just fun to watch the women race.
What disappointed me a bit—and is why I’m not giving it a full 5 stars—is the conflict toward the end of the book. I loved the great, healthy communication between Sloane and Reese throughout the entire book. It was mature and just felt real. This conflict, on the other hand… I don’t want to spoil anything, but it didn’t quite fit after all the development between Sloane and Reese. If there’s such healthy communication, why take it away all of a sudden?
Nevertheless, it’s an absolutely great and heartwarming book with strong women. I’m already looking forward to the second part… maybe it’ll be about Veronika? A great woman! Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
April 19, 2026
Arc review ♡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/4 (4.25 stars)
I gotta say I had my ups and downs while reading this BUT, if given the chance,I would’ve flirted with Sloane the same (somewhat) embarrassing way that Reese did at the beging of this book.
But let’s start with the review for real now; as one might guess, I really liked the characters, both Reese and Sloane were written soooo well and I throughly enjoyed reading how their story progressed throughout the book. Though, I do wish we would’ve gotten even more insight into Sloane‘s POV (I just adored her parts sooo much, I flew through them haha). Besides that, I also really liked the side characters and how well they were included within the story, it all felt natural.
Speaking of side characters and the story, I really loved the Formula 1 & 2 theme. Though, I had no prior knowledge about it, reading about it was still so enjoyable for me and made me want to actually learn more about it to understand how it all worked!
Moreover, I loved the character developments and the fears and struggles of the characters throughout the story, nothing felt overly dramatic, instead it felt rather natural and gave the story overall a very nice flow overall.
However, I did experience moments where the story felt somewhat drawn out and I did struggle a tiny bit with the writing style sometimes (but that’s just my preference coming through).
Overall though, I did enjoy reading this very much and think this is especially for readers who liked a good character driven story which still has a good story overall. And again, I do wish Sloane would exit in real life because damn, I might have developed a little crush on her throughout this book (haha)
Thank you so much for the advanced readers copy. And I want to disclose that this review was voluntarily and honestly given ♡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/4 (4.25 stars)
I gotta say I had my ups and downs while reading this BUT, if given the chance,I would’ve flirted with Sloane the same (somewhat) embarrassing way that Reese did at the beging of this book.
But let’s start with the review for real now; as one might guess, I really liked the characters, both Reese and Sloane were written soooo well and I throughly enjoyed reading how their story progressed throughout the book. Though, I do wish we would’ve gotten even more insight into Sloane‘s POV (I just adored her parts sooo much, I flew through them haha). Besides that, I also really liked the side characters and how well they were included within the story, it all felt natural.
Speaking of side characters and the story, I really loved the Formula 1 & 2 theme. Though, I had no prior knowledge about it, reading about it was still so enjoyable for me and made me want to actually learn more about it to understand how it all worked!
Moreover, I loved the character developments and the fears and struggles of the characters throughout the story, nothing felt overly dramatic, instead it felt rather natural and gave the story overall a very nice flow overall.
However, I did experience moments where the story felt somewhat drawn out and I did struggle a tiny bit with the writing style sometimes (but that’s just my preference coming through).
Overall though, I did enjoy reading this very much and think this is especially for readers who liked a good character driven story which still has a good story overall. And again, I do wish Sloane would exit in real life because damn, I might have developed a little crush on her throughout this book (haha)
Thank you so much for the advanced readers copy. And I want to disclose that this review was voluntarily and honestly given ♡
April 29, 2026
3.5⭐️ Rounded Up
It’s a classic Melissa Brayden novel, I knew it was going to be a solid, great read from the start. What I appreciate the most about the author is she knows how to write romantic feelings and delivers the dynamic between main characters perfectly.
I enjoyed the grown that Reese had, starting off as a cocky race car driver who lets that control the way she drivers. Her growth really was a breath of fresh air, and she was an incredibly likable character.
Sloane was equally as lovable, but something about Reese had me hooked on her. With Sloane being a big name in the race at driving world, but having a serious crash pushed her away from that scene.
The two come together in such a natural way which I always appreciate. It never felt like they had an 11 year age gap (a trope I always struggle with reading), they felt a lot more like equals.
Where my start rate comes in is the overall feel I had for the story. I loved it, loved the characters, loved the research Melissa Brayden had to have done to write this, but it just didn’t hit the way I thought it would. I felt like I had to drag myself through it during a few parts, and as much as I love really a smut scene, there was a LOT of it. I will always appreciate not having a third act break up, but in my gut it’s just telling me I wish there had been a bit more.
What I’m hoping for next is Reese’s friends to have their own love stories (especially Cassidy, I LOVED her). Overall, it was a solid read and I will forever pick up a need book from Melissa Brayden.
Thank you NetGalley and the author for a solid read!
It’s a classic Melissa Brayden novel, I knew it was going to be a solid, great read from the start. What I appreciate the most about the author is she knows how to write romantic feelings and delivers the dynamic between main characters perfectly.
I enjoyed the grown that Reese had, starting off as a cocky race car driver who lets that control the way she drivers. Her growth really was a breath of fresh air, and she was an incredibly likable character.
Sloane was equally as lovable, but something about Reese had me hooked on her. With Sloane being a big name in the race at driving world, but having a serious crash pushed her away from that scene.
The two come together in such a natural way which I always appreciate. It never felt like they had an 11 year age gap (a trope I always struggle with reading), they felt a lot more like equals.
Where my start rate comes in is the overall feel I had for the story. I loved it, loved the characters, loved the research Melissa Brayden had to have done to write this, but it just didn’t hit the way I thought it would. I felt like I had to drag myself through it during a few parts, and as much as I love really a smut scene, there was a LOT of it. I will always appreciate not having a third act break up, but in my gut it’s just telling me I wish there had been a bit more.
What I’m hoping for next is Reese’s friends to have their own love stories (especially Cassidy, I LOVED her). Overall, it was a solid read and I will forever pick up a need book from Melissa Brayden.
Thank you NetGalley and the author for a solid read!
April 24, 2026
3.25 ⭐
April 25, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I knew nothing about Formula One Racing going into this. I did however, think that it sounded interesting and I was excited to learn more. That being said, I didn’t double check if things were accurate but I felt like I learned a lot and was able to grasp the basics of racing thanks to how the author wrote about it.
I think I’ll never forget Reese and Sloane’s meet-cute. It was hilarious to witness Reese make a complete fool out of herself. I think she needed a little bit of the ego check. For a hot second she was a little hard for me to root for, but that quickly changed. Their chemistry was undeniable from the very beginning and only got better with each interaction.
I think the way that Melissa Brayden handled Sloane’s mental health journey was well thought out and well done. It was realistic and I was glad that she took the story where she took it in the last fourth of it. I was wondering where the story was going to go when I reached about the 55% mark, knowing there wasn’t a third act break up. I appreciate where it ended up going.
Can we talk about the friends in this book? I don’t know if I’ve ever loved side characters/friends/found family more than I did in Make Your Move. Especially Veronica’s friendship with Sloane. She is truly a gem. I was so touched when she said, “ That’s my girl [..] That’s my best friend. The closeness of The Starting Grid was so wholesome and I loved how close they all got and how loyal they were. I also liked that there wasn’t jealousy and they all genuinely wanted the best for each other.
This is the second book by Melissa Brayden that I’ve read and this is the second book that I’ve absolutely loved. I think with the light angst, tasteful spicy scenes and over wholesomeness of the novel, I will be rereading as a comfort read. 4.5 Stars!
**side note- I don’t know why but I want Shanelle and Julie to be a thing and have their own book!
I knew nothing about Formula One Racing going into this. I did however, think that it sounded interesting and I was excited to learn more. That being said, I didn’t double check if things were accurate but I felt like I learned a lot and was able to grasp the basics of racing thanks to how the author wrote about it.
I think I’ll never forget Reese and Sloane’s meet-cute. It was hilarious to witness Reese make a complete fool out of herself. I think she needed a little bit of the ego check. For a hot second she was a little hard for me to root for, but that quickly changed. Their chemistry was undeniable from the very beginning and only got better with each interaction.
I think the way that Melissa Brayden handled Sloane’s mental health journey was well thought out and well done. It was realistic and I was glad that she took the story where she took it in the last fourth of it. I was wondering where the story was going to go when I reached about the 55% mark, knowing there wasn’t a third act break up. I appreciate where it ended up going.
Can we talk about the friends in this book? I don’t know if I’ve ever loved side characters/friends/found family more than I did in Make Your Move. Especially Veronica’s friendship with Sloane. She is truly a gem. I was so touched when she said, “ That’s my girl [..] That’s my best friend. The closeness of The Starting Grid was so wholesome and I loved how close they all got and how loyal they were. I also liked that there wasn’t jealousy and they all genuinely wanted the best for each other.
This is the second book by Melissa Brayden that I’ve read and this is the second book that I’ve absolutely loved. I think with the light angst, tasteful spicy scenes and over wholesomeness of the novel, I will be rereading as a comfort read. 4.5 Stars!
**side note- I don’t know why but I want Shanelle and Julie to be a thing and have their own book!
April 24, 2026
Great prologue!
One main isn’t immediately likeable, not unlikeable but a bit arrogant. I like how we see her become better….. this is not a redemption arc but I liked her more as the book went on. There is of course Brayden batter between buddies that is amusing. There is longing, pretty instant, pretty overpowering. There is of course a barrier and I think Brayden has shown really well what the cost of that could or should be, emotionally. There can be a tendency in some novels for the barrier to be we can’t, we shouldn’t, we did. And the changes take place as quickly as reading that sentence. Time wise, in this book is has been quite quick but at least we are seeing the emotional road.
At the beginning I was enjoying the book but not all in. Just under 40% there was a pivotal incident that moved me further in. Well done Brayden. I read the incident through one mains eyes, but the next scene I could feel when we saw impact. Well set up!
I grew in to the book. I loved that there were not silly misunderstandings. That a conversation that had to be had, while delayed, did happen and did happen organically.
There is of course a barrier and I enjoyed the reality of the way it was overcome. The book started a 3, progressed to a 3.5 and ended up a four…. Slow and steady did win the race!
One main isn’t immediately likeable, not unlikeable but a bit arrogant. I like how we see her become better….. this is not a redemption arc but I liked her more as the book went on. There is of course Brayden batter between buddies that is amusing. There is longing, pretty instant, pretty overpowering. There is of course a barrier and I think Brayden has shown really well what the cost of that could or should be, emotionally. There can be a tendency in some novels for the barrier to be we can’t, we shouldn’t, we did. And the changes take place as quickly as reading that sentence. Time wise, in this book is has been quite quick but at least we are seeing the emotional road.
At the beginning I was enjoying the book but not all in. Just under 40% there was a pivotal incident that moved me further in. Well done Brayden. I read the incident through one mains eyes, but the next scene I could feel when we saw impact. Well set up!
I grew in to the book. I loved that there were not silly misunderstandings. That a conversation that had to be had, while delayed, did happen and did happen organically.
There is of course a barrier and I enjoyed the reality of the way it was overcome. The book started a 3, progressed to a 3.5 and ended up a four…. Slow and steady did win the race!
April 29, 2026
I adore Melissa Brayden, that’s more than a fact at this point.
I really enjoyed Make Your Move, I’m always a sucker for age gap and sports romances. The chemistry was electric from the start. I would have NEVER recovered from Reese’s first attempt at flirting, I would have simply crawled in a hole and died. The development of their relationship was so beautifully written and I loved that their communication was always mature, supportive and understanding. We support healthy communication as much as we love a little miscommunication.
The conflict resolution, for me, felt a bit too easy but I was very surprised when that sudden silence and distance was present and no conversation to go along with it.
The Starting Grid might be my new favorite friend group and I hope we get each of their stories along with Veronica’s.
Thank you to Melissa Brayden and Luna Literary Management for providing me with an eARC.
Rated 4.5 stars
The conflict resolution, for me, felt a bit too easy but I was very surprised when that sudden silence and distance was present and no conversation to go along with it.
The Starting Grid might be my new favorite friend group and I hope we get each of their stories along with Veronica’s.
Thank you to Melissa Brayden and Luna Literary Management for providing me with an eARC.
Rated 4.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2026
5⭐️
I knew I was going to love this the moment I saw it was a lesbian F1 romance.
Reese is aspiring to become an F1 driver and joins an academy created to help bridge more women into the sport. That’s where she meets Sloan, a mentor for the new racing academy who retired from F1 years ago.
I literally couldn’t put it down. There was a great balance between racing action and romance. I also really enjoyed the side characters.
Can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I knew I was going to love this the moment I saw it was a lesbian F1 romance.
Reese is aspiring to become an F1 driver and joins an academy created to help bridge more women into the sport. That’s where she meets Sloan, a mentor for the new racing academy who retired from F1 years ago.
I literally couldn’t put it down. There was a great balance between racing action and romance. I also really enjoyed the side characters.
Can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2026
Meh… I was bored with this one
July 27, 2026
This book is going to be a hit for a lot of people. It didn’t quite work out for me. If you like F1 racing and a lot of sex you’ll probably enjoy this.
I wanted more on page romance. This felt like a lot of the actual getting to know each other and what not happened off page.
This was also setting up a series, I feel like? I honestly can’t remember if Melissa has said. But it felt like the setup of a series. There was a ton of the friend group. I feel like we see more of Reese’s friend group on page than we do Reese and Sloan at certain times.
I wanted more on page romance. This felt like a lot of the actual getting to know each other and what not happened off page.
This was also setting up a series, I feel like? I honestly can’t remember if Melissa has said. But it felt like the setup of a series. There was a ton of the friend group. I feel like we see more of Reese’s friend group on page than we do Reese and Sloan at certain times.
June 21, 2026
4.25/5 stars
considering how much i was disappointed by another melissa brayden book, this one is a pleasant surprise because woooooo the tension, the dynamic, the sweet moments, the friendship aspect, they're being executed quite well here
considering how much i was disappointed by another melissa brayden book, this one is a pleasant surprise because woooooo the tension, the dynamic, the sweet moments, the friendship aspect, they're being executed quite well here
June 22, 2026
wish I could blame it on my depression but I fear this was just boring as hell.
May 14, 2026
I loved this tho it might not appeal to everyone. I'm an F1 fan anyway and motorsport is such a rare topic for romance books.
We have Reese the young rookie trying to prove herself. Sloane the veteran who was forced out by a bad crash and suffers ptsd.
When they both join the same team Sloane becomes Reese's mentor but they both want something more. The chemistry, banter and spice is really well developed.
The other characters, fellow drivers helped add to the storyline. But always in the background is the tension and danger of race day. Sloane's fear for Reese is affecting everything.
Fast paced story and overall a sweet enjoyable read. And there will be a book two following Sloane n Reese on their journey.
We have Reese the young rookie trying to prove herself. Sloane the veteran who was forced out by a bad crash and suffers ptsd.
When they both join the same team Sloane becomes Reese's mentor but they both want something more. The chemistry, banter and spice is really well developed.
The other characters, fellow drivers helped add to the storyline. But always in the background is the tension and danger of race day. Sloane's fear for Reese is affecting everything.
Fast paced story and overall a sweet enjoyable read. And there will be a book two following Sloane n Reese on their journey.
October 1, 2026
Ever since watching Drive to survive and F1 Academy last year I’ve become a racing fan! Seen no to very few woman in f1 at all it made me super happy that a f1 sapphic romance existed!
I really loved this book, the characters were lovely and plot was gripping. I was rooting so hard for all these woman to have their dreams come true.
The romance was also really cute…I have to say though I skipped the last two smut scenes because there were A LOT (like 10+ with 3 in a row lot!) and for me they didn’t add anything to the plot and became somewhat repetitive.
The third act kinda break being made by a friend seemed really stupid and immature to me, she’s mid 30s, woman come on.
Loved the ending and the outlook for their future tho!
I really loved this book, the characters were lovely and plot was gripping. I was rooting so hard for all these woman to have their dreams come true.
The romance was also really cute…I have to say though I skipped the last two smut scenes because there were A LOT (like 10+ with 3 in a row lot!) and for me they didn’t add anything to the plot and became somewhat repetitive.
The third act kinda break being made by a friend seemed really stupid and immature to me, she’s mid 30s, woman come on.
Loved the ending and the outlook for their future tho!
August 5, 2026
I am unable to write a full review at this time, but I want to say that I am allll about Melissa Brayden 2.0. This listen was thorough, entertaining, moving, interesting, and sexy as hell.
Indie looks really good on Brayden and I’m thrilled to see it! If I get a chance, I hope to talk to her about it a bit this weekend.
And Quinn Riley doing the narration?! Hell yes and more, please! For me, the evolution of Brayden is one of the most exciting things going in sapphic fiction. Good for her - and good for us!
Indie looks really good on Brayden and I’m thrilled to see it! If I get a chance, I hope to talk to her about it a bit this weekend.
And Quinn Riley doing the narration?! Hell yes and more, please! For me, the evolution of Brayden is one of the most exciting things going in sapphic fiction. Good for her - and good for us!
July 11, 2026
As someone who dabbles a bit in F1 (as in enjoy watching), I loved how Make Your Move captured the thrill of racing without getting bogged down in technical details. It’s a perfect balance in making the motorsport exciting and keeping the focus on the romance.
Reese and Sloane had great chemistry, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Reese first comes across as cocky, a player, but she is just the opposite, just a persona that she puts out there. Sloane, on the other hand, is more reserved, thoughtful, and quietly determined. I simply loved the first time Reese interacted with Sloane. That definitely had me chuckling. And that final scene where Sloane just gets in the car and drives away, somehow just stays with me. Who doesn’t love a confident driver?
Make Your Move is a heartfelt, feel-good romance with just the right amount of racing action and spicy, sexy scenes. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Reese and Sloane had great chemistry, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Reese first comes across as cocky, a player, but she is just the opposite, just a persona that she puts out there. Sloane, on the other hand, is more reserved, thoughtful, and quietly determined. I simply loved the first time Reese interacted with Sloane. That definitely had me chuckling. And that final scene where Sloane just gets in the car and drives away, somehow just stays with me. Who doesn’t love a confident driver?
Make Your Move is a heartfelt, feel-good romance with just the right amount of racing action and spicy, sexy scenes. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 18, 2026
I always enjoy Melissa Brayden's novels and Make Your Move is a fun and romantic tale.
I learn something in all of her novels, but usually it is about wine or baking or something like that lol. Make Your Move is all about female racecar drivers and I know nothing about the racing sport! But Brayden makes it all fun and interesting. And, of course, she peppers the whole book with spice and attraction and seriously hot FF romance.
Fans of Melissa Brayden will like this one.
an advanced readers copy of Make Your Move was provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
I learn something in all of her novels, but usually it is about wine or baking or something like that lol. Make Your Move is all about female racecar drivers and I know nothing about the racing sport! But Brayden makes it all fun and interesting. And, of course, she peppers the whole book with spice and attraction and seriously hot FF romance.
Fans of Melissa Brayden will like this one.
an advanced readers copy of Make Your Move was provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Did Not Finish
August 31, 2026Didn’t work for me unfortunately
July 29, 2026
4.5 stars
May 4, 2026
I’m not into motorsports at all, but I do love Melissa Brayden’s books, so I was really curious to see how this reading experience would turn out.
In the end, it was solid but not outstanding. The story worked, the characters were enjoyable, and although I was a bit worried about the racing aspect, it never felt overwhelming or off-putting. Still, the overall experience came across as somewhat average. I love it when a book pulls me completely into the flow—when I just can’t stop reading. Not always practical, I know, but incredibly satisfying. Unfortunately, that never quite happened here.
My rational side says this deserves a solid 4 stars, but emotionally I can’t quite go beyond 3.5. Rounded up, though, it still lands at 4 stars.
In the end, it was solid but not outstanding. The story worked, the characters were enjoyable, and although I was a bit worried about the racing aspect, it never felt overwhelming or off-putting. Still, the overall experience came across as somewhat average. I love it when a book pulls me completely into the flow—when I just can’t stop reading. Not always practical, I know, but incredibly satisfying. Unfortunately, that never quite happened here.
My rational side says this deserves a solid 4 stars, but emotionally I can’t quite go beyond 3.5. Rounded up, though, it still lands at 4 stars.
May 18, 2026
4.25 stars
October 27, 2026
Enjoyable read. Loved the f1 aspect so much, also great character development. It didnt need to be 400 pages, in the end it became a bit boring.
May 3, 2026
4.5
from now on, i'm going to need every sports romance to be sapphic, thank you so much.
this was SO GOOD! i love the setting that was created, the academy for women drivers, making space and opportunities for them to join f1. i love reading about ambitious women, especially when they're passionate about something that's male-dominated, and this story gave it to me tenfold.
reese and slone were both amazing main characters, individually and together. the pacing of their love story felt so natural and so good to read—even when they got together and there were still some struggles to overcome. it was beautiful, fun, emotional, sexy, everything you might need in a romance.
but my favorite part was the starting grid. from the soho loft series, i knew melissa brayden could write a friend group like nobody's business, but getting to read about this friend group being formed and growing close, and creating that bond we seek in found family stories... oh it was the absolute best.
i grew attached to all of these characters so much (including ronnie, of course!) and so fast i'm honestly feeling a little bit empty inside that everything about these people available to be read, i've already done it. if this whole series was out already, you bet i would've binge-read it in a week.
i'm counting down the days where i will be able to revisit this world and these girls and get to see more of the crew getting their own happily ever afters. i can't wait to see what story is coming next!
(cassidy, you are my favorite! you're my baby! i've adopted you!)
ARC kindly provided by luna literary.
from now on, i'm going to need every sports romance to be sapphic, thank you so much.
this was SO GOOD! i love the setting that was created, the academy for women drivers, making space and opportunities for them to join f1. i love reading about ambitious women, especially when they're passionate about something that's male-dominated, and this story gave it to me tenfold.
reese and slone were both amazing main characters, individually and together. the pacing of their love story felt so natural and so good to read—even when they got together and there were still some struggles to overcome. it was beautiful, fun, emotional, sexy, everything you might need in a romance.
but my favorite part was the starting grid. from the soho loft series, i knew melissa brayden could write a friend group like nobody's business, but getting to read about this friend group being formed and growing close, and creating that bond we seek in found family stories... oh it was the absolute best.
i grew attached to all of these characters so much (including ronnie, of course!) and so fast i'm honestly feeling a little bit empty inside that everything about these people available to be read, i've already done it. if this whole series was out already, you bet i would've binge-read it in a week.
i'm counting down the days where i will be able to revisit this world and these girls and get to see more of the crew getting their own happily ever afters. i can't wait to see what story is coming next!
(cassidy, you are my favorite! you're my baby! i've adopted you!)
ARC kindly provided by luna literary.
Read
April 27, 2026F1… definitely not my sport. To be honest, no racing or driving really holds my attention. I couldn’t care less.
That being said, I did like this book, despite all the racing.
If we look at the F1/ racing as just a job and forget about the noise it makes, how irritated I get by it, this is a very nice love story. It has many strong female characters, all different, all layered and big personalities. I like it. Our romance starts with a VERY poor pick up line and it is funny. It’s great how these characters, both mains and secondary, help each other grow and evolve. They give each other perspective, room to grow, and lo and behold communication. The thing that’s so rare in these sapphic books, glad to see it in this book. We’re all grown women, we do know how to communicate.
Even if you don’t like F1, like me, this is still worth picking up. I’m looking forward to book 2 in the series.
That being said, I did like this book, despite all the racing.
If we look at the F1/ racing as just a job and forget about the noise it makes, how irritated I get by it, this is a very nice love story. It has many strong female characters, all different, all layered and big personalities. I like it. Our romance starts with a VERY poor pick up line and it is funny. It’s great how these characters, both mains and secondary, help each other grow and evolve. They give each other perspective, room to grow, and lo and behold communication. The thing that’s so rare in these sapphic books, glad to see it in this book. We’re all grown women, we do know how to communicate.
Even if you don’t like F1, like me, this is still worth picking up. I’m looking forward to book 2 in the series.
May 9, 2026
What a fabulous book! I knew nothing about F1 racing, but now I'm intrigued! We meet Reese an up and coming F2 driver who meets Sloane an F1 legend. Sloane has been hired by Formula Next Academy as a mentor to all the up and coming female drivers. Which includes Reese. When Reese and Sloane are together they can't help the feelings they both get! But also, Sloane is helping Reese's driving. They're attraction to one another grows as Reese's star rises.
I really LOVE THIS BOOK! The intimate scenes are intense and HOT! Whether you love F1 racing or not this book will hold your interest and you'll learn something too. Definitely 5 stars!
I really LOVE THIS BOOK! The intimate scenes are intense and HOT! Whether you love F1 racing or not this book will hold your interest and you'll learn something too. Definitely 5 stars!
Did Not Finish
April 28, 2026So sad that I DNF'd this one - the premise was amazing (I'm totally in my F1 era, and throw sapphic into the mix?!), but something fell flat with the execution for me.
I think for me, too much telling, not enough showing, in need of a possible extra edit, and just... idk. Did not tick any of the boxes I had hoped it would.
I think for me, too much telling, not enough showing, in need of a possible extra edit, and just... idk. Did not tick any of the boxes I had hoped it would.
June 18, 2026
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this one.
I was excited about it since it's the first sapphic racing romance I've come across. I liked the premise so I was looking forward to it.
At first, I didn't love Reese but she grew incredibly well as the story went along. I liked Sloane and I enjoyed that MB added some history with her in the sport, it did make the depth of the characters feel realistic.
The racing stuff was a little hit and miss for me. Some of it worked and some of it didn't. Which feels like the norm for me at this point. (I think a lot of these feel like authors who watched Drive to Survive and used that as their only research to the sport)
The romance wasn't my favorite, I didn't feel the connection very strongly between them, more like it was a forced thing sometimes. Then there was a lot of sex once it happened the first time, and I think it kind of took away from the story a little bit once we shifted focus to just having sex. There didn't seem to be much on page depth growth for the couple, more just telling us they did.
That said, it still went well and I did enjoy it.
I was excited about it since it's the first sapphic racing romance I've come across. I liked the premise so I was looking forward to it.
At first, I didn't love Reese but she grew incredibly well as the story went along. I liked Sloane and I enjoyed that MB added some history with her in the sport, it did make the depth of the characters feel realistic.
The racing stuff was a little hit and miss for me. Some of it worked and some of it didn't. Which feels like the norm for me at this point. (I think a lot of these feel like authors who watched Drive to Survive and used that as their only research to the sport)
The romance wasn't my favorite, I didn't feel the connection very strongly between them, more like it was a forced thing sometimes. Then there was a lot of sex once it happened the first time, and I think it kind of took away from the story a little bit once we shifted focus to just having sex. There didn't seem to be much on page depth growth for the couple, more just telling us they did.
That said, it still went well and I did enjoy it.
April 21, 2026
While I was reading this book, I literally turned to my wife and told her in an alternate universe, I’m a driver and she’s an engineer.
I finished Make Your Move last night and can’t stop thinking about it. I already wish I could go back and experience this book for the first time again.
As usual, Melissa’s writing is immaculate. I’m not sure I can think of another author who writes banter so well—and not just between the main characters, but a room of four or more of them.
The meet-cute had me laughing so hard. I think it’s probably my favorite book meet-cute to-date. Reese is as goofy as she is sexy and it shows. Sloane is a simp who sucks at pretending to be an ice queen. The tension between these two is insane and while it’s a slow burn, it didn’t take the entire book (thank god).
If you love spice, this one definitely has you covered. I loved the spicy scenes as much as I loved the racing scenes…which, by the way, will have you holding your freaking breath.
Then, of course, the friendships throughout this book are top freaking tier. I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series.
Needless to say, I’m obsessed and it may only be April, but this is my favorite book of the year.
I finished Make Your Move last night and can’t stop thinking about it. I already wish I could go back and experience this book for the first time again.
As usual, Melissa’s writing is immaculate. I’m not sure I can think of another author who writes banter so well—and not just between the main characters, but a room of four or more of them.
The meet-cute had me laughing so hard. I think it’s probably my favorite book meet-cute to-date. Reese is as goofy as she is sexy and it shows. Sloane is a simp who sucks at pretending to be an ice queen. The tension between these two is insane and while it’s a slow burn, it didn’t take the entire book (thank god).
If you love spice, this one definitely has you covered. I loved the spicy scenes as much as I loved the racing scenes…which, by the way, will have you holding your freaking breath.
Then, of course, the friendships throughout this book are top freaking tier. I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series.
Needless to say, I’m obsessed and it may only be April, but this is my favorite book of the year.
April 24, 2026
This book had me hooked from the first lap 🏁
Make Your Move delivers everything I want in a sapphic sports romance. Ambition, tension, and a relationship that walks a very fine line between professional and personal. Reese is all confidence and instinct, while Sloane is controlled and closed off, and watching those walls slowly come down was so satisfying.
The mentor and mentee dynamic adds that perfect forbidden edge, and the chemistry is there from the start. Every interaction feels loaded, especially in those quieter moments away from the track. The racing world adds intensity, but the emotional stakes are what really pull you in.
I also loved the friend group and the sense of community around Reese. It balances out the pressure and gives the story warmth alongside the angst.
If you are into sapphic romance, age gap dynamics, and high pressure settings with real emotional payoff, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Already need book two 😭
Make Your Move delivers everything I want in a sapphic sports romance. Ambition, tension, and a relationship that walks a very fine line between professional and personal. Reese is all confidence and instinct, while Sloane is controlled and closed off, and watching those walls slowly come down was so satisfying.
The mentor and mentee dynamic adds that perfect forbidden edge, and the chemistry is there from the start. Every interaction feels loaded, especially in those quieter moments away from the track. The racing world adds intensity, but the emotional stakes are what really pull you in.
I also loved the friend group and the sense of community around Reese. It balances out the pressure and gives the story warmth alongside the angst.
If you are into sapphic romance, age gap dynamics, and high pressure settings with real emotional payoff, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Already need book two 😭
June 19, 2026
so so
I like Melissa Brayden books and the plot of this book was really interesting but the writing seemed off on this one. Almost like it was edited by AI or something. The parts of the story that reflected her normal writing style were very good while others were hard to get though bc of the cadence. Overall 3.5/5
I like Melissa Brayden books and the plot of this book was really interesting but the writing seemed off on this one. Almost like it was edited by AI or something. The parts of the story that reflected her normal writing style were very good while others were hard to get though bc of the cadence. Overall 3.5/5
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