Salto

by Kendra Hope

A college gymnast who thought her Olympic dream was over.
A Finnish Olympic gold medalist who sees her potential.
And a friendship contract that changes everything.

Stick It meets Kulti in this closed-door gymnastics romance packed with slow-burn tension, high stakes, and Olympic dreams.

Scarlet Hale thought her Olympic dream was over. After choosing college gymnastics, she'd accepted that the elite path was behind her. But when Finnish Olympic gold medalist Eero Rove sees her potential, he offers her one last chance to chase the impossible.

Leaving behind the life she's built, Scarlet returns to the brutal world of elite gymnastics. With the Olympics finally within reach, every practice pushes her body to its limits as she battles a chronic illness determined to stand in her way.

The only thing more dangerous than chasing the Olympics?

Falling for the man helping her get there.

Determined not to let feelings derail her comeback, Scarlet and Rove make a friendship contract—a promise to stay just friends while he trains her.

Content Consideration: Chronic illness (endometriosis/PCOS), chronic pain, sports injuries, intense athletic training, discussions of infertility, and a brief mention of a parent's addiction.

Genres: Romance, Sports Romance, Sports

388 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication October 5, 2026

Reviews

[A. Diella]

Salto by Kendra Hope
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Release date: October 5th
Age rating:16+
Spice:none

Thank you Kendra Hope for this arc! I was so excited to read this and it didn’t disappoint. Scarlet was such a good fmc to follow. She’s so kind, determined, and just funny. I love her so much. I found her so relatable. I ended up crying for a while just because of how painfully real her struggles felt. I don’t have the same chronic illness as her, but I do still have one and that part of the plot just hit me in a way I wasn’t expecting. Her and Rove’s friendship (which I’m dying to become more) was also so special. He’s such a caring guy. This man researched his condition, made a pain scale for her, and never once complained when her pain caused them to have to slow down on things. Why does that feel like the biggest deal ever? He’s such an angel. I can’t wait for book two, and will be reading it as soon as possible. Definitely add this to your tbr!

[Betsy And The Books]

🤸‍♀️Quote🤸‍♀️
“You really think I can do it?” I asked before he could leave.
A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. “I wouldn’t have waited for you if I didn’t.”
I was left standing there, staring after him as he rode away on his bike, wondering what in the world had just happened.

They probably thought I was being cowardly by leaving.
But I’d realized a long time ago that staying and enduring something painful didn’t automatically make you strong.
In fact, sometimes the strongest thing a person could do was recognize that they were enduring pain for no reason at all and choose to walk away.

🤸‍♀️My Thoughts🤸‍♀️
Wow this book blew me away!! I can’t tell you how happy I was to be chosen to read this book early! I started it immediately even though it doesn’t come out till October and I never do that. There was a previous gymnast X coach romance I read and loved a while ago that had spice and I have been wanting a no spice gymnastics romance and this book was everything I wanted and so much more!!

This book was so emotional seeing Scarlet fighting for her Olympic dreams even while dealing with a chronic illness that can cause sharp pains out of nowhere, it made me really feel for her and root for her to be able to manage it and be able to achieve her dreams.

Then we have Kove,he sees Scarlet practice while scouting for an elite team and sees her hunger and potential to go to the Olympics and decides to work with her personally to help her be able to manage the pain.

The tension!!! The tension that happens between them had me gasping for breath! I was girly giggling and kicking my feet! This is the slowest of burns where just a look or a brush of hands or a pinkie swear has you giddy! Also the stress and nervousness of Scarlet when she is trying elite skills again for the first time in a long time! I felt nervous for her too! The way Kendra wrote about chronic illness and how Scarlet experiences pain all the time from Endometritis, her pain scale isn’t the same as a normal persons pain scale and the way Kove came up with a pain scale just for her had me just loving him even more! I quickly became obsessed with this book and was even messaging Kendra at midnight over the diner scene IYKYK!! Then the ice bath scene! This was such a bindgeable book that I intentionally read slower because I didn’t want it to end!

Overall this book quickly became my favorite sports romance book of all time! I already pre-ordered a signed copy from her because this is one I need the physical copy of so I can re-read it and tab it up! I’m honestly already wanting to re-read it again and I’ll be dying until we get the conclusion to this duology! If you love watching gymnastics and you love movies like Stick It then I think you will love this too!

🤸‍♀️Thank you so much Kendra Hope for gifting me a copy to read! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Dakota]

From the moment I read the blurb, I knew I had to read this book. I am so thankful I got to be part of the ARC team because I absolutely loved it! I could not put it down!💕💕💕

The slow-burn romance was absolutely perfect. Rove is one of the sweetest, kindest, and most caring characters. The way he constantly made sure Scarlet was okay, always looked out for her, and reminded her that she didn’t have to go through everything alone was so beautiful. He was always there for her, always on her team, and always in her corner, no matter what. That was especially impactful because of Scarlet’s endometriosis/PCOS, but I also think it applies to anyone living with a chronic illness. Having someone who stays beside you through all the challenges, the ups and downs, and everyday life is such a beautiful blessing.

I also loved Scarlet. She is strong, caring, and fiercely protective of the people she loves. Beneath her tough exterior is someone who is incredibly compassionate and sensitive. She puts on such a brave face because she doesn’t want anyone to see everything she’s going through. Opening up is difficult for her, so she pretends everything is okay, even when it isn’t. Watching her slowly trust Rove and let him in was so special.

The texting scene where Rove explained the nickname he gave her… oh my gosh, it gave me butterflies! And Chapter 59 completely melted my heart.

I will definitely be needing the second book in this series because I am already obsessed. This is probably my favorite gymnastics romance I’ve ever read, and I cannot wait to see what else Kendra Hope writes in the future.

[Rebecca Daines]

Advanced Reader Copy:

WOW! I don’t even know where to start. I feel so honored to be one of the first readers of Salto. I’ve watched Kendra pour so much heart into this story, and I truly cannot wait for more people to experience it.

Salto is an emotional, character-driven, clean slow-burn romance (and book one in a duology) that absolutely delivers. It hit in all the right places—I was grinning, laughing out loud, kicking my feet, and sobbing, sometimes all within the same chapter. Kendra has a real gift for translating emotion onto the page.

The characters felt incredibly real. Watching Scarlett’s journey—especially the push and pull of learning to trust, lean on others, and navigate her own challenges—was both beautiful and deeply relatable. And Rove… I love him. There's really not more to say about him. I just love everything about him. He is such a complex character and every nugget learned about him, makes you want to know him more. I genuinely love that Rove and Scarlett really are friends, and the tension between them is SO good—it had me constantly wanting more.The relationship in this book feels earned, messy in the best way, and full of heart and I can't wait to see what is next for them!

What stood out most to me is how thoughtfully Kendra handles endometriosis. She brings visibility to something so many women experience, and does it with care, honesty, and grace. I truly believe readers who are navigating similar struggles will feel seen and understood in this story.

We need more books like this—stories that reflect real experiences and still leave you feeling hopeful. If you love emotional reads with depth, strong character development, and meaningful representation, this is absolutely one to add to your TBR.

I can’t wait for book two in this duology!😊

[Evelyn (Ev’s Novel Delights)]

🧂❤️Salto by Kendra Hope❤️🧂

📖Expected publishing date: October 5, 2026 📖

OH
MY
GOSH.
When I say I LOVED this book, I’m meaning that I LOVED AND CHERISHED EVERY SECOND OF EVERY PAGE IN THIS BOOK.
I loved reading about something that’s not written a whole lot. And learning more about gymnastics was so cool!

Ok we all know Kendra can write a sizzling romance with tons of tension. But she completely outdid herself and wrote this one with SO much tension that couldn’t go ANYWHERE because it was forbidden. And it tore at me nearly the entire time😩

Scarlet was such a diva. I loved her so much. Honestly, her having a chronic illness that would interfere with her life and gymnastics, made it her so much more relatable and had me connecting with her.
I honestly loved reading about her and her dream. It stays close to the heart, because when I was younger I ALWAYS wanted to join gymnastics; but never did. So all this to say, I loved seeing Scarlet grow in her bravery and her character as a whole. AND SHORT QUEENS FOREVER

Now Rove. Gosh he could swoon and melt you away with ONE WORD.
Even in the way he looks at Scarlet. He had such a sweetness about him. He truly took care of his “Red” and ugh it was adorable how much he cared for her. And the fact that he had a MOTORCYCLE, and that he spoke Finnish and called her KULTA when they already made their Friendship contract were just too much for me to handle and now. Well I love him so much 😂🤭😍

All ya’ll need to know is that, Ya’ll need to read this book. Who wouldn’t want to read a book about gymnastics, a friendship contract, or tension that’ll knock your socks off??!

My rating: 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

⚠️ Age Recommendation: 16-17+ ⚠️

CONTENT INFO‼️
Sexual Content: NO SPICE- no kissing just tension, light touches here and there, embraces
Language: No cussing- never said curses
Violence: pretty mild- blood, injuries, mention of surgery needed,
LGBTQ Content: None!

TRIGGERS🚨
Chronic illness rep- endometriosis, chronic pain, a couple talks about fertility, and mentions of a parents past drug addiction

[Alexiani G]

This book, this couple, Rove, this journey NOT EVEN A KISS!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT A WHOLE YEAR FOR THE SECOND BOOK, WHYYYYYYYYYY?!

REVIEW TO COME!!!

Ok I'm calmed now 🙈

[Ella Noelle]

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Oh my gosh! Where do I begin?🥹
Rove, my goodness this man! He was so caring and thoughtful. I love that he made a pain number chart for Scarlett just so he can check in on how she’s feeling. He believed in Scarlett, even when she didn’t believe in herself. He supported her and took care of her. Rove was just the sweetest man! And I love that he called her ‘Red’, it was adorable.
Also the ice bath scene!! Ahhh, I was swooning!
I loved Rove and Scarlett’s friendship, and I can’t wait for them to become more.
Scarlett is a grumpy cinnamon roll. She was determined and brave, which I admired. She was also a great sister and friend.
Seeing the way Scarlet struggled with undiagnosed endometriosis/ PMOS was heartbreaking. She felt like her body was betraying her. I love that through it all, Rove was there for her every step of the way. He was always in her corner, no matter what.
I cannot wait for book two! Like I need it now, please and thank you 🤭

tropes:
❤️elite gymnastics
🤍coach/ athlete (no-spice)
❤️slooow burn
🤍endometriosis rep
❤️forbidden romance
🤍found family
❤️he takes care of her
🤍friendship contract
❤️single pov

CONTENT:
- (no-spice, maybe a spoiler but there were zero kisses since it’s a slow burn 😉)
- no language

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

[Samantha Geil]

SALTO 🤸🏼‍♀️
4.25🌟
Spoiler free arc review!

“I’m scared because my body is fighting against me, and I don’t know what choice could make that fight even harder.”

YOU GUYYYSSS!!!! This book was so good I really really enjoyed it!!!! The chemistry between the fmc and the mmc is unmatched and the slow burn is slow burning!! If a book finds me screaming JUST KISS ALREADY you know it’s an excellent proper slow burn. I also really liked the characters individually! As someone with endometriosis, I could relate to Scarlet on a very personal level. My experience with it isn’t exactly the same as hers, but just seeing it in this book made me feel so seen. I cried twice whenever it was brought up. She was a very headstrong and determined fmc and I really liked her. Her actions and speech were a little repetitive, and I kept getting confused about her age, but honestly that last part might’ve been a me problem who knows

ROVE!!!! MY MAN!!!!! He’s blond. Has tattoos. Rides a motorcycle. And he’s BLOND. I have to say I was already in love with him before I even started the book, but seeing how he tried his best to watch out for and take care of Scarlet made me love him even more. He’s such a good guy I can’t

Thank you to the author for this Arc! I’m so excited for book two!!!

One (not so) tiny note. I don’t think this book should’ve been marketed as having endo rep. That felt like a huge spoiler and I’m actually really upset about it. I think if it was marketed as chronic illness rep it would’ve been a lot better, and the element of surprise would’ve been there for whenever endo was introduced, since it wasn’t there from the beginning

[Ryleigh JS King]

Where do I begin?
This book was honestly perfect. From the characters, to the setting, to the plot, I was hooked from page one!
I loved the dynamic between the MCs. They were lovable and felt so real I felt like they would step off the pages. Their banter was adorable and I couldn’t get enough of it.
The friendship and found family within the gymnastics team was amazing.
I cannot wait to see more of these characters in the next book. (I’m hoping Scarlet finally gets her ride on the motorcycle, IYKYK).
The gymnastics, training, and meets were so much fun to read about. It felt very grounded in reality and showed the side of the sport most people don’t care to learn about.
The storyline itself was engaging enough to have me devouring the book like a madwoman.
As I said, this book is perfect.
If you’re interested, do not hesitate to get your hands on a copy. It is worth every page.

I’d like the amazing author, Kendra Hope, for allowing me to be on her ARC team. It was such a pleasure to read this story. I will eagerly be awaiting book 2’s release so I can finish this story.

[Grace Spillers]

Oh my word!!!!! I read this as an arc and it’s sooooooo good
The comments that just come out of nowhere that just make you wanna kick your feet and scream 😱 I had to set my kindle down multiple times just to relax 🤣 I think my favorite part was the salt and pepper!!!! IYKYK!!! 🧂that was insane!!!!
Thank you to the author for sending me the arc!! ❤️

[Jenna-Rae Merrell]

So many really great things about this book! I really loved the PCOS/Endometriosis representation and health aspect of the book. The gymnastics was also so fun! I love a book with layers and this book definitely has layers! Between her own professional goals, health concerns, family and friends relationships and dynamics, there’s a lot to unpack! I’m so excited to finish the story in book two and see what comes next!

[Kiana Roylance]

Arc review

Spice: none

Language: none

I really enjoyed this gymnastics book. I wouldn’t call it a romance yet but there is def tension, strong feelings, and a big buildup to book 2 (which I’m super excited for!)

There aren’t many gymnastics fiction books out there, so this was a fresh read. Having been a gymnast for most of my youth, it was easy to follow along and felt true to that world (not that I was ever an elite or college athlete).

I was a little put off by the MMC being the MMFs coach initially but with them both being adults and only a few years apart and keeping things professional, their friendship and impending romance grew on me.

I like that the author had the MFC has a chronic illness. It felt more true to life. Many athletes have health issues that they deal with and it added more depth to the story.

I like that Rove is not a man of many words and he is tough on Scarlett. But that he also obviously cares about her.

He is all about paying attention to the little details and I swooned several times at that. What woman wouldn’t want a man who actually paid attention to the little things 💕

Scarlett was dumb pushing herself too hard and lying to rove at times but I also think that doesn’t detract from her as a character. It makes her human and relatable. Many of us would consider lying and doing all that we could to accomplish our dreams.

Scarlett can also be very sassy at times but I liked how rove always took it in stride, even putting her in her place (but without being demeaning) when she needed it.

Rove isn’t your typical MMC. He’s strong, handsome, and a little broody. But he doesn’t do grand gestures. He doesn’t get the MFC anything (unless you count a spot at the elite team tryouts, a chance to stay on the team, and likely the place she finds to rent) or take her on dates (though they do hang out as friends with their friends). But he does pay attention and do sweet little things like get her her fav coffee without being reminded of her order or give her his sweatshirt to cover up her period when it surprises her and acts chill about it.

They don’t kiss (though the slow burn is there). They do however have chemistry and tension. But they also know how to put that aside and work hard at their jobs and goals without letting that get in the way or cause trouble.

I didn’t love how it just felt like it ended, however I know there will be another book so hopefully it feels completed with that. It just personally felt like a weird spot to just stop the story but maybe im just being picky.

Though both characters had their feelings grow, i felt like rove was maybe falling harder and faster. He was struggling more to keep it together and stay professional, especially when Scarlett got hurt. He’s the one giving her endearing secret nicknames.

I just hope they can work it out in a way that they don’t get into trouble as the coach/gymnast thing is still tech a no no while they are linked like that. They are both talented in their fields and deserved to keep doing what they love without being in trouble. I’m assuming one of them will have to change where they are at some point for some reason before they can truly act in their feelings.

The writing was easy to read and drew me in. I read the whole book in a day as I couldn’t put it down! I’m really looking forward to book 2!

[Ava Russell]

Might I introduce you to my newest obsession...

Sometimes the strongest thing a person could do was recognize that they were enduring pain for no reason at all and choose to walk away.

This is one of those rare books that I would give six stars (because five stars is just not enough), and I am completely devastated that I finished it and don't get to read more of it tonight. Kendra Hope does an incredible job of weaving together the sweetest romance with deep, relatable pain. FMCs in romances usually get on my nerves, but Scarlet is literally one of my new favorite characters.

// Scarlet //
In any other universe, I'd be called insane. But here, I was just a gymnast.
<333

AHHHH she's so real and relatable, and her internal struggle is so tangible that I ached for her all the way until the end (I still am, thank you very much). Getting to read about her struggle with chronic pain and the mental battle that comes alongside something so heavy was eye-opening and thought-provoking, and there were also so many moments that were very relatable and painful to read.

In this case, the author using a chronic illness felt so very raw and never cliche. I feel like she did such an incredible job of spreading awareness and also helping the reader to relate.

// Rove //
"When you struggle, I step in. When you need someone to lean on, I'm here. We're a team." He let out a slow breath, shaking his head. "Sometime over the last few days, you decided to do this all on your own. And it's been agonizing watching you crumble right in front of me."
<333

Obsessed. Obsessed obsessed obsessed. I don't know what else to say. It's been a long time since I've read a book with a romance that had me this obsessed.

The author truly did a wonderful job of crafting a character who was caring, vulnerable, and relatable.

But he's her coach, so...that's the dilemma.

"I'm not going to give up on you just because you have a day where you need to go slower."

I would recommend this book for readers ages 16+ who love:
- forced proximity
- forbidden romance
- chronic illness rep
- gymnastics
- the beach
- college-aged characters
- he has a nickname for her
- a very slow slow burn

"What price would you pay to never feel pain again, Red?"
"Anything."
"Really?"
"Anything? Even if it cost you who you are?"

Overall, this book shows the importance of pushing through pain, but never through boundaries. Our goals don't need to be diminished by our circumstances. It's our path to get there - not the final destination - that is to be modified. I 100% recommend, and I'm so excited for the next book!

Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own (and this opinion says to go read this book!!).

Content and trigger warnings:
- PMOS and endometriosis are a central theme
- mentions of drug use and discussion of addiction

[Kendra DeWit]

That was… AMAZING. I finished this book a week ago and I’m still thinking about it. I love it so much that it has unfortunately put me into a bit of a reading slump because I’m not quite ready to move on to anything else. 😂

It took me a few chapters to really get used to the writing style and character voice, which was a little longer than usual for me. But once it clicked, I was completely invested.

The tension between Rove and Scarlet is there from the very beginning, and I absolutely loved watching their relationship develop. They make a contract to remain just friends while they’re coach and trainee, which gives them the opportunity to actually become friends—and I loved that foundation for their relationship. There’s so much chemistry and tension between them, but it never felt rushed. Despite its VERY slow burn nature, it never felt too slow either.

And Rove. 🥹 His nicknames for Scarlet—first Red, then Kulta, and occasionally “stubborn little thing”— were ridiculously endearing. I loved how obvious his care for her was, and how it went beyond what was required of him as her coach. Since the story is told from Scarlet’s perspective, you get to slowly piece together what Rove is feeling through his actions and little moments rather than having everything spelled out for you, and I thought that was beautifully done.

“Any man would be lucky to love you, Scarlet. You, as you are. Right now.”

I mean. Make me melt, why don't you. This. This is just one of the reasons I love Rove so much! (Other reasons may, or may not include the fact that he is "dangerously cute")

Also, I would personally love to be described as “devastatingly beautiful.” Just saying. 👀

This story also deals with some heavy topics, but I thought they were handled with lots of care and grace. There’s definitely an emotional weight to the story, but it never felt like those topics were treated carelessly, or were like they were too heavy for the story.

And if you’re wondering about the romance: no spice, but SO. MUCH. TENSION. The chemistry is absolutely there.

Content notes: mentions of possible fertility struggles. Rove curses under his breath fairly often, usually in connection with Scarlet being in significant pain, but there are no swear words actually written on the page.

I cannot wait for the next book! ❤️

Thank you to Kendra Hope for letting me be a part of her ARC team for this amazing read. All opinions are my own.

[Priscilla]

✨ Bleeding was inevitable when I'd spent the majority of my life throwing myself at inanimate objects, with gravity fighting my every move. In any other universe, I’d be called insane. But here, I was just a gymnast.✨️

✨️ His gaze dropped to my hands wrapped around the bar before returning to my eyes. “So, do you trust me, Red?”✨️

~

📖 Summary: College gymnast Scarlet thought her Olympic dream was over—until Finnish Olympic gold medalist Rove sees her potential and offers her one last shot. As she returns to elite gymnastics while battling a chronic illness, Scarlet and Eero make a friendship contract to keep their relationship strictly platonic… but Olympic pressure and growing feelings make that promise harder to keep.

~

💭 My Thoughts 💭
OH MY GOSH. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK. 🤸‍♀️🫴💕
As someone who was an elite gymnast for 5 years, reading this felt like being transported straight back into one of the biggest safe spaces of my life. The gymnastics atmosphere, the training, the meets, the little details, the aesthetics of it all—IT HIT ME RIGHT IN THE NOSTALGIA. 😭🤧

It genuinely felt like such a fun throwback to a part of my life that I’ll always cherish, and I found myself getting emotional because I could practically smell the chalk and hear the springboards again. 🤸‍♀️✨

And beyond the gymnastics?! I LOVED the storyline and these characters so much. The development, the challenges, the Olympic dreams, and everything Scarlet was fighting for had me completely invested. CAN'T WAIT FOR BOOK 2 BTW!

AND THE ROMANCE?! HELLO?!?! 😮‍💨🫴🔥

The tension and chemistry between Scarlet and Rove were PHENOMENAL. The slow burn had me screaming at the pages, and there were SO many adorable little moments that had me giggling and kicking my feet.

This book gave me everything I wanted:

Gymnastics, nostalgia, Olympic dreams, amazing characters, slow-burn romance, insane chemistry, and enough adorable moments to keep me smiling the entire time.

As a former gymnast, this one felt especially special to me. It brought me back to a place that once felt like home, and I absolutely adored every second of it. 🤸‍♀️🥹🫴💕✨

EASILY a 5-star read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~

Tropes:

♡ Gymnastics Romance
♡ Slow Burn
♡ Fake/Friendship Contract
♡ Coach x Athlete
♡ Closed-Door Romance
~
Thank you so much to Mrs. Kendra Hope for allowing me the privilege of an ARC 🙏

[Jordan Scoggins]

ARC Reader Review!

First off, thank you so much to Kendra for trusting me with an advanced copy of this amazing book. I have loved watching you write this book (following along through social media) and I was so excited to read it.

Kendra DOES IT AGAIN.

Wow I am so impressed with her writing and the slow burn in this story. I will say I am not usually one for a slow burn. I want happiness and love and I want it fast but this book has CHANGED MY MIND.

Scarlet (aka. Red which I LOVE NICKNAMES.) is such a deep character that I loved getting to know. Her health conditions make her so relatable and it is nice to see this represented in fiction romance!! I loved her thoughtfulness but also bravery in stepping into practicing with Elite. I am excited to see how her character develops over the next book (and of course for more swoony romance with Rove).

Rove. Of course another AMAZING MMC that has us swooning from the beginning. He is confident and firm, but loving and supportive. He sees Scarlet in himself which is such a sweet thing to watch as the story unfolds. He is so good to her!

Things I loved:
-Rove remembering she doesn't like pickles (:
- THE SALT AND PEPPER SCENE. If you know you know. I was grinning from ear to ear the whole time.
-When Scarlet was worried about her health and someone loving her despite her medical conditions... Rove states "To be granted the privilege to love you, and be loved by you in return- would be enough". OH MY. oh my oh my oh my. Yeesh Kendra be still my heart.
- Rove and Scar falling on the mat together after she misses the bar
- Ice bath scene.
-'Stubborn little thing'. AGH.
-And him CARING FOR HER. The whole taking her to the doctor and being with her/supporting her throughout that journey to finding answers is just so precious and creates a deep sense of connection between them that I'm sure is going to start even more BURNING in the next book!!

If you love a tattooed and confident MMC, stubborn and strong FMC, swoon and tension...this is the book for you. This is a TWO BOOK SERIES...so there is so much more to come and I can't wait!!

[Parislashaedavis]

I just wanted to start by saying what an honor it was being a part of this ARC team. It was my first ARC and what better book to start with than this one! Thank you Kendra Hope for the opportunity!

Salto is a contemporary, slow burn, gymnastics romance that is closed door. I appreciated how clean, but yet swoony this book was. I am not usually a huge fan of slow burns, but this one was just too good to put down. The tension and chemistry of Rove and Scarlett was so evident and makes you so anticipate of the second book.

Scarlett is a fun, sassy, short girl and I love her personality so much. Her struggles with Endometriosis are so real and were portrayed so accurately. I have Endo too and I felt so seen being able to read about a disease that is so underrepresented and read about it in such an accurate way. You can tell that Kendra did her research. Scarlett is so strong and it’s so real her struggles with being honest with both herself and others on how she actually feels health wise. I also just thought her nickname was so fun and such a cute little detail.

Rove is a kind, patient, loving short king and we love him. The way he just so perfectly compliments Scarlett is so beautiful. He puts up with her sass, while also grounding her and popping back. The way he deals with her health struggles is also so beautiful. He is so beyond patient with it and makes her feel so seen and taken care of. He puts his whole heart into making sure she is safe and understood. Support like he offers her is so important when struggling with Endometriosis or really any chronic illness. I just love Rove so much and the number system is one of my favorite little details. Don’t even get me started on the use of his little pet name for her…

Overall this was just such an amazing book that was so thoughtfully written. I am a HUGE fan of Kendra Hope and she just outdid herself with this one. The ending left me begging for the second book to come out. I’m on the edge of my seat waiting. Overall an 11/10 book ⭐️

[Lisa]

This book pulled me in DEEP. I was so invested in the FMC and her story, and I honestly couldn't put it down. Her struggles, her determination, and everything she was fighting through had me completely invested in what happens next.
I absolutely loved the sports theme and watching her chase her dreams despite everything standing in her way. And the MMC's support of her? 🥹❤️ I loved the way he showed up for her, especially when she was struggling. Their relationship is filled with so much tension, yearning, and that delicious forbidden love that had me turning the pages just waiting for them to cross that line.

And some of these lines?! 🔥

“You think I can’t handle you, Red?” I stilled and looked up again. Then I responded with absolute certainty⁠— “I know you can't.” A slow smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, like my warning had only strengthened his resolve.
🫠

“Believe it or not, I don't like seeing you suffer, Red.” Images of him across from me in the ice bath, his fingers threaded through mine, flashed through my mind. “Keep your eyes on me, Red.”
😩🔥

“To be granted the privilege to love you, and be loved in return—would be enough."
😭❤️

This is Book 1 of a two-part story, and now I have SO MANY QUESTIONS that I desperately need Book 2 to answer.
Does her pain from endometriosis get better? Does she get to keep chasing her dream and make it to the Olympics? And, most importantly… do these two finally cross that line from coach/athlete and friends into something MORE? 👀❤️‍🔥
Because they still haven't given in and I NEED to know what happens when they finally stop fighting it.
I am officially emotionally invested in these two, their dreams, and their story—and now I have to wait for Book 2. 😭
Needless to say… I NEED BOOK TWO. Like, yesterday. ❤️‍🔥📖

If you love sports romance, forbidden love, slow-burn tension, yearning, angst, and a MMC who will stand beside his girl through it all, this one needs to be on your TBR!

[Katie]

**Advanced Readers Copy Review**

Oh Kendra Hope, how you write and create a story is a readers dream!! I just want to be one of your besties! First introduction was Love & Lidocaine, and now Salto. You are solidified as a fave author, my girl!! My list only has 2 others because I’m picky but I’m honored to read your books. Thank you blessing me with being an ARC reader.

Without hesitation I give Salto 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟, I’d actually give it more if I could.

Where do I begin? The yearning, the internal dialog, the text messages, the nicknames, the depth of character(s), the progression of story and relationships. What is going to happen with them? Her sister? And Sloane’s problem!? Omg, the meanings of Finnish words (well, one word specifically 😉🥰), all of it has me kicking my feet! I’m desperate for the next installment of this story… like before I finished book 1, but I get it. It doesn’t make the wait any easier. Lol!

Last thing but most important than anything else… Scarlet.
I would like to note, I am not a sports girl, never have been, minus my one season of soccer at 8 years old, Go Killer Pickles!! (Yep, real team name.) I am, however, a woman with severe hormonal issues including PMOS. Kendra has beautifully written Scarlet’s struggle through what I can only describe as a clear awareness/study of PCOS/PMOS and endometriosis. Kendra lays out the impact by weaving it seamless within the story and it’s explained very well, including the suddenness /randomness of the painful attacks from these issues. Kendra, you should be proud. Truly! Finally, adding in Rove’s understanding of Scarlet, asking her “numbers, researching to make sure he understands… that was detail that brought tears to my eyes and made me ache in my heart… the amazing kind.

Read Salto, everyone!! You won’t regret it!! I’m about to re-read it right now. (Not kidding!)

[Tatum - nuggetybooks]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Book 1 of series
- Closed door contemporary romance
- Single POV
- Slow burn romance
- Gymnastics romance
- Coach & athlete
- PCOS & Endo awareness

✨ a few of my favorite things:
- their meetcute oh my gosh
- Salt & Pepper
- The banter between them
- “Number”
- The team they make and how he goes out of his way to make her the best she can be
- He pushes her and also forces her to slow down
- He’s a gentlemen
- The nicknames

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow can I have book 2 immediately?!! How could Kendra leave us hanging like that?!?! This is a slow burn for the record books let me tell you.

I was so engrossed in the story and plot. The gymnastics world is fascinating to me and I think Kendra captured it so well. I liked the side characters and family dynamics. It felt like real life. She wanted to focus on just gymnastics but that couldn’t always happen cause of pain, worry for family, or catty girls. I’m interested to see how lots of this side drama will play out.

I absolutely love Rove and Scarlet together. I think they make an incredible team. I appreciate how seriously he takes her communication with him. He doesn’t let her get away with lying. He meets her right where she is and pushes her when she needs or forces her to slow down. I feel like we got to see slow through through the book in their relationship and I have a feeling we are going to have big moves by both in book 2. They also have so much tension between the two of them it’s KILLING ME. The suspense of waiting for book two may cause me to wither away. I need the second book pronto.

This is a closed door contemporary romance there is no cursing and no innuendo. Author has a content warning in the beginning of the book.

**Thank you so much to Kendra for letting me read this gifted ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**

[Jessica | booksbyjess__]

First of all, a huge thank you to the author for allowing me to read the ARC of this book!! It was an honor and joy to get to read this advance reader’s copy!

Where to begin?? This was such a fun, cute, and fast-paced read! It’s one of those books that once you start, you could read the whole thing in a day or two.
So, if you love stories that feature: gymnastics, genuine slow-burn, forbidden romance, a comeback story, and lovable characters— then this book is for you!

Scarlet, our main character, was incredibly likable and an easy character to route for. I loved her fire-y personality, and reading her story of perseverance and determination even when it seemed like her dreams could never be realized was something I didn’t know that I needed to hear too. And as an eldest daughter myself, I found myself relating to her a ton.

Rove— coach, friend, love interest… listen, I’m not usually a blonde love interest kind of girl, but he was perfection! Truly the epitome of masculine plus gentle and kind. My standards for a future boyfriend have now risen even more. The way he treats Scarlet throughout the book made me absolutely love him.

I truly am going to have a hard time waiting for the sequel, because I need it like yesterday— because I flipped through the epilogue and had to check if that was really the end or not. So, I will be eagerly awaiting the next book and you can better bet I will be diving into it as soon as it releases. But until then, I highly recommend Salto to anyone looking for a clean romance that’s adorable, may have you actually laughing out loud, smiling, and keeping you up at night because you can’t stop reading, be sure to grab a copy once this releases!

[Tiffany]

Absolutely loved this book! Another great story by Kendra Hope.

I immediately resonated with the dedication. As a little girl, I wasn’t treated right after I broke my arm because my parents said I was too dramatic. They didn’t believe me until the school nurse called them the next day and told them to bring me to the hospital. I learned to hide pain after that. And I have a heart condition so I know the frustration of just wanting your body to work right. This book honestly made me feel seen.

Another thing about me, I love stories revolving around sports. The grit, the drive, the tenacity. I love it. That’s why I was so excited for this book. And boy did it deliver. Scarlet was very well designed in that aspect. You could feel her desire to be more, her hunger for the challenge.

However, to account for my missing star, I did feel like some things were missing. Part of the reason I love reading and watching shows about sports is that it’s usually a great way to understand more about that sport. I didn’t really feel like that was true for this book. I couldn’t picture anything, even by the end. Which could just be me since I started with literally no knowledge of gymnastics.

I also felt like Rove was completely professional after their first meeting. I’m not saying that’s necessarily a bad thing, but if I were her friend, I would have told Scarlet that she was delusional to think he was interested in her. I got secondhand embarrassment when she suggested they were into each other. I understand it’s a slow burn, but I think I needed a little more obvious interest from our MMC.

After I finished it, though, I caught myself reaching for it again and again. For me, that’s the mark of great characters and a great story. Highly recommend! And so excited for the next one 🤩

[Liv]

3.5/5

Thank you to Kendra Hope for letting me beta read!

So overall, I liked this. I didn’t like it as much as Love & Lidocaine, mainly because this is an ultra slow burn and there wasn’t much romance, it was more focused on the buildup. But I knew this story would be a very slow burn and a duology so I was expecting it. (If you’re not a fan of super slow burns, this probably won’t be for you.)

The story focuses a lot on the FMC’s journey of getting into the Olympics as well as the early stages of a romance with her Coach. I liked Rove and the moments he and Scarlet had together. However, Scarlet kind of annoyed me with how stubborn she was. She constantly pushed herself further than she was able to (and I’m glad she has someone like Rove to help prevent her from doing that). But it kind of annoyed me how she would tell Rove she’d communicate with him but then decided not to. I’m hoping to see more growth from her in the next book and seeing her let go of some of her stubbornness. I am also hoping the next book dives deeper into their backstories, especially with Scarlet and her history with pain. This book doesn’t go into that much detail about it. And I’m also hoping to see a good resolution with Jamie. And most importantly, I’m very excited to see all the juicy payoff with Scarlet and Rove’s romance in the next book. I look forward to seeing much more romance between the two. And for that reason, I’m sure I’ll like the second book better than this one.

Lastly, the author seemed to take a careful and considerate approach to serious issues such as endometriosis, which is definitely a good thing!

Thanks again, Kendra, for letting me read early and I look forward to the next one. <3

[Brandy Schindler]

ARC reader
4.25 ⭐️

This was a refreshing read! I was hesitant at first with the idea of a coach/gymnast relationship, but I do think Kendra did a great job of making it work considering their ages and timelines. I went in expecting a full blown romance, but was pleasantly surprised by the instant connection being balanced by the need for boundaries, building of trust, and focus of the goals in the gym. The tension and growth of an emotional connection held its own without leaving me feeling like soemthing was missing, in fact it felt much more realistic than the way things usually happen in a book with a romance element.

Another area I enjoyed was the gymnastics element. Typically any content with the sport leaves much to be desired…Scar’s time at UCLA didn’t seem exactly like the reality of college gym, but everywhere else Kendra seemed to really push the fact the the sport is mentally and physically demanding, the timeline can be intense and cutthroat, and that the thrill of it all makes it worth it. Plus, a glimmer of hope driving someone to risk it all? So many people will resonate with that no matter if they’ve done the sport or not.

Lastly, I feel like I learned so much about PCOS/endo through this book. It’s clear Kendra did her researched and portrayed something so many people live with every day in a manner that lets the reader understands its realities. What a way to bring PCOS to light!

I can’t wait to read the next book! Selfishly, I wish book one and two were combined as I really just wanted to keep going as the last page ended. I’ll be patiently waiting to see Rove and Red again!

[Gabriela]

Advanced Reader Copy
Salto by Kendra Hope
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Magnificent and spectacular are the first words that come to mind after finishing this book. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of the ARC team and read Salto before its release. I cannot wait for everyone else to experience this incredible story!
I absolutely loved this book. I finished it in just a day and a half, and throughout the journey I giggled, screamed, gasped, empathized, and felt every emotion alongside the characters.
From Scarlett and Rove's adorable first meet-cute to the development of their coach-and-gymnast relationship, I couldn't get enough. I loved the pacing of the story, the challenges they faced, and the way the coaching sessions were woven into the plot. Scarlett's strength and perseverance through her chronic illness were incredibly inspiring. She never lets it define who she is, and I admired that so much. The nicknames, the sweet little gestures, and the unwavering support and confidence Rove has in Scarlett made my heart melt.
I am so happy this is a duology because a story this detailed and beautifully written deserves the time and space to unfold. I already can't wait to continue Scarlett and Rove's journey in the second book. I know it's going to be just as emotional, heartfelt, and beautiful.
This is my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
Blurb:
A college gymnast who thought her Olympic dream was over.
A Finnish Olympic gold medalist who sees her potential.
And a friendship contract that changes everything.

[Megan]

Oh. My. Word. This book was fabulous!!! From the first page to the last I was completely immersed in the world of elite gymnastics. Scarlet and her gymnastic journey had me hooked from the start. From her entrance into the world of elite training, with the hope of going to the Olympics, to her relationship with Rove, to her health journey, I was completely taken with this story.
Lets start with the setting: The author did a phenomenal job in writing the world of gymnasts. I seriously felt like she must have been a professional gymnast in another life. Granted, I know nothing about that sport, but she did a great job making me feel like I was right there with Scarlet through the workouts, the meets, and all the work in between.
The chemistry between her and Rove was swoony and sizzling! I loved how they both felt drawn to one another, but because he's her coach they can't act on those feelings, so they choose to just be friends. I loved that aspect of their relationship, and I really appreciated how the author draws out their relationship without it becoming annoying in them not being able to be together.
Scarlet's health journey with PCOS and Endometriosis was so well done as well. I know both those health conditions cause so much pain and grief for some women, and I admired how the author handled it. It's a part of Scarlet's story, but it doesn't define her story.
I cannot wait for the next book! Seriously, I need it now!!
*I read an early ARC copy from the author. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Kyla Hill]

This is the first time I’ve been an ARC reader for Kendra Hope and I am thrilled that I got to read this story! Her prose is beautiful and easy to follow. And, as an editor, I can tell you that this book is much more error-free than many other independently published books I’ve read. The story itself is compelling, and even though I myself am not very familiar with gymnastics, I didn’t feel lost. It’s written in a way that anyone can enjoy, but if you do actually know gymnastics terms and moves, you’ll only enjoy the story even more, I’m sure. The characters are believable and well written. And I think anyone can enjoy this story regardless of their own experiences or lack of experiences with chronic illness.

Even though I overall recommend this book, and I do stand by the 5-star rating, I do have one note to share:
Do not expect a resolution in this book—this isn’t a duology with two separate arcs, it is one arc. In a way, it felt like the story here in book one ended at the climax. On the one hand, it definitely left me craving more, and I will 100 percent be reading the second book! I got hooked on these characters and I would love to continue reading their story. Not only for the romance, which yes I want to see more progress, but there are other characters that seem to have more to them that I would love to see some resolution for, like Sloane and Jamie.

All that being said, you won’t regret reading this book—you’ll just join the club of all of us excitedly expecting book two!

[Kate]

Advanced reader copy review.

I very much enjoyed this book. First of all, this author does the internal monologue / lost in their thoughts very well. I felt like I was in her head the whole time, which I loved. The plotline was great, highlighting realistic problems that come with being a gymnast with chronic illness and pain.
When this book is categorized as a slow burn, it is a SLOW burn. With that being said, even with practically no intimacy, some of those conversations were some of the most intimate things ive ever read, without being spicy.
Overall, I think it was very well done. I dropped everything to read this book, and I'm so glad I did! I'm very excited for book two to see the rest of their story, and also to see how the rest of her gymnastics journey goes. I also love how much I cared about the gymnastics storyline too. It was well developed, and I love that I was rooting for her in the gymnastics world and not just the love story. I also appreciate how much care the author put into discussing chronic illness, and how it is portrayed.
I also loved all of the love story components because it wasn't always flashy. The little comments, nicknames, and gestures were all so sweet. Also, the whole scene making the friendship contract had me kicking my feet and giggling. There were so many great aspects to this book, and I reccomend this to anyone who likes a slowwwww burn closed door romance.
Really, I don't have anything bad to say about this book! 5 stars!!

[Kendra Parker]

Kendra Hope has written another beautiful book! She has this amazing ability to create a world and describe it in such a way with such amazing detail that I feel like I am there with the character experiencing the same things that they are! This book is about Scarlet and her desire to be an Olympic Gymnast while also dealing with pain and a disability and the coach that saw her potential and wants to train her. Did i mention the coach is close to her age and super cute and they have amazing chemistry?? This is a very slowwww burn but you will not see me complaining as the yearning in this book is absolutely there!! This is one of 2 books so be prepared to have to wait for Scarlet and Rove's romance to continue, but don't let that stop you from picking this up as soon as it comes out! I really appreciate the research that went into this book, you can really tell Kendra has done her homework! It had me stopping to Google things and upped my knowledge about the Gymnastics world. On another note I also appreciated the representation of someone struggling with a chronic illness, for those of us that have to deal with these kind of things its nice to be represented and to hear all the feelings and insecurities that come with a chronic illness!! I can't wait to read the second book and see where Scarlet and Rove's journey takes them!!

Thank you Kendra Hope for letting me be an Arc reader it was such a privilege!

[Katie]

*Advanced Reader Copy*

After reading Kendra’s “Love and Lidocaine” (of which I am obsessed), this book has an entirely different feel in a great way. Scarlet is struggling with chronic pain due to hormonal imbalance, and I really loved reading about a character who was so fierce in the face of that chronic pain. Us silent sufferers know how hard things can be when our illness isn’t visible from the outside. People can be harsh with their expectations of us, not knowing an iota of what we are already overcoming inside. Scarlets toughness and tenacity showing up day after day as she chased her dreams was inspiring to read.

As far as the slow burn with Rove- muuuuccchhhhh slower than I anticipated, but it IS just book 1! I think this relationship was given the care it deserves, given the nature of him being her coach. Too many writers would have made it feel yucky, and instead I think Kendra does a great job of giving just enough yearning (in a very “Pride and Prejudice” sort of way), without crossing boundaries or disrespecting authorities that you can’t ignore. It definitely made me excited for book two, now that the foundation has been laid.

I was also surprised how much I knew about gymnastics, and how relatable the gymnastics world was even to someone who doesn’t follow closely. I didn’t get lost in terminology, it didn’t feel over my head.

Can’t wait for book two Kendra!!!