Behind the Wheel

Hearts & Horsepower #2

by A.K. Evans

Avery Sullivan is preparing to become the queen of the drag strip. So, when the one-stop motorsports shop in town is hiring, the thrill seeker doesn’t hesitate to apply. Knox Lee thinks his boss has made a huge mistake. A beautiful woman with as much knowledge about cars as Avery has would normally be a turn on. But he won’t be blinded by that. Avery used to work for the competition. As though it’s not already tough enough to succeed in an industry dominated by men, Avery finds herself having to contend with the brooding fabricator. Sure, he might be drop-dead gorgeous and know how to wield a rod, but that doesn’t give him a free pass to question her skills. Seeing her determination to reach her goal, Knox soon realizes he might have misjudged Avery. The next thing he knows, he’s working side by side with her. And he’ll do anything to help get her back behind the wheel.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Sports, Enemies To Lovers

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2020

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A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.

Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!

When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.

Reviews

[Mairi Swan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the overheard trope, so this captivated me from the first chapters. I liked their friendship and easiness towards each other after they worked it out.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know what they say about assumptions … well, this story teaches a lesson on that and it is so well done I can’t even tell you. You guys, this journey is so good! I was in reader heaven while reading it. It had character and relationship growth with the conflict just as it should. Reading their journey made me happy because I could feel myself right there in the story with them. GAH, their chemistry sparked off from the very beginning, even when there was mistrust or assumptions of ulterior motives! I’m normally not a fan of adult novels having miscommunications and assumptions running amok, but it fit this story fiercely.

I haven’t read too many books by this author yet but so far, what I have read, I really enjoyed so *cheers* to future stories that make me happy!!

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[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star review of Behind The Wheel (Hearts & Horsepower #2) by A.K.Evans
I was invested from the first to the last chapter in Avery Sullivan and Knox Lee’s story. It was an entertaining read that ticked the boxes for me. This is a story about not jumping to conclusions and taking people at face value. It is a story that has some angst and was well written.
I admired Avery’s strength and determination to succeed in what is perceived as a man’s world. They both have baggage and one of the things I loved was how supportive Knox became of Avery’s determination to get back behind the wheel.
The chemistry between them was intense and I was really cheering for these two to get the happily ever after that they both deserve. It was heart warming to watch their relationship develop and see how much they grew .
I cannot wait to see what happens next.

[Meegz Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

*5 Stars*

This was my first book by this author but it definitely won't be my last. I really enjoyed this, particularly how our heroine is more of a tomboy and is into cars and racing and things. I liked all the characters in this book (except of course the ones you're not meant to like) and I really like the family feel of the team at LT and would love to read the other books in this series about the other guys. Definitely recommend.

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[Michaela Dren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhhhh A.K. Evans has outdone herself with this one! I could not put it down. I was so wrapped up in Knox and Avery's story my life seized to exist. So worth it! There is just something about two souls who are broken and find each other with the insane chemistry these two had that make you fall in love with them yourself. I cannot rave about Behind the Wheel enough!

[Dana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to get to Knox and Avery’s story. I loved the way things were left with them in book 1. I don’t know what happened though, but the people in this book had zero chemistry. It’s a slow burn kind of story for sure, but Jesus, it took forever for them to just get along. Everything was so drawn out, and super wordy. We got the same information three times at some point. Knox was mad at Avery for reasons only known to him. Avery had come across as this super independent, badass girl at both the end of book 1 and the beginning of book 2. Then, I have no idea what happened. She became whiny, very insecure, to the point where I couldn’t read about her insecurities anymore, and her inner monologues were super long.
There’s a bit of drama toward the end which didn’t make any sense at all, and it sort of followed the same drama recipe from book 1. Avery went off on Knox, then Knox got upset and didn’t want to go talk to her out of spite. But then they each get a talk from someone, and they decide to work things out.

[Susana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the Wheel is book 2 in the Hearts and Horsepower series.
I don’t know how Ms. Evans does it with every single book, but she’s definitely done it once again-I loved Avery and Knox!
We first met these two in book 1 of this series. Avery used to work for the competition, which causes Knox to not trust her. This causes a lot of friction between them although the chemistry between these two is hot and fiery. They each have some demons to fight. Too many wrong assumptions are made, and not enough proper communication happens. Finally, thanks to some outside help and advice, they are able to work out their issues.
I found myself making excuses not to put the book down until I was all done. Now I am anxiously waiting for book 3 to arrive!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery has had to learn the hard way to be strong, resilient and independent. There is nothing that Avery wants more than to pursue her love of racing which leads her not only to a new job but to Knox as well.

When Avery is hired Knox believes that she has an ulterior motive as she used to work for a rival company. He soon realizes that there is a lot more to her than first appeared but will they allow their painful pasts to destroy the future they could have together?

There is no doubting that Avery and Knox made a great couple however they the biggest challenge will be themselves.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
I really liked Avery it took Knox awhile to grow on me. Avery just found her perfect job but can she deal with Knox to keep it? I will say once realized she wasn't two timing them he definitely got on board and he rocked the supportive guy who wanted the best for her. They definitely had chemistry and I did find myself cheering them on 100%.

[Renée Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, despite being seriously attracted to someone, you let things get in the way - jealousy, preconceived notions, pride and hurt feelings - they can all stop you from getting your HEA. In Behind the Wheel, book 2 in the Hearts and Horsepower series by A.K. Evans, we get another "rocky start" romance where you don't immediately see how the two characters are going to end up together. I like the enemies to lovers trope and it's used well here, between Knox and Avery. Although it's book 2 in the series, you could probably pick it up as a standalone because most everything relevant that happened in book 1 is explained again - but I always like to read a book series in order, especially where they are interconnected and we meet the characters early on.

Knox first sees Avery at the race track - and she's one of the racers which he finds seriously hot (don't we all - a chick race car driver is badass). Before he can introduce himself, he sees that she is with Ricky, the owner of a rival shop. He assumes that they are an item and backs off. Then, when he finds out that Avery is about to start working at LT Motorsports, leaving the rival shop for theirs, Knox just assumes that she's up to no good. He's not completely off base in his suspicions - the racing world is very competitive, and LT Motorsports is at the top of their game. It would make sense for Ricky to send Avery to gather information and report back to him. The thing is, Avery isn't a spy. Knox treats her like crap basically - even though the chemistry between them is undeniable and he still wants her. He's angry at her and angry at himself for wanting her, and the first few weeks are volatile between the two of them. By the time Knox starts to realize that maybe he was mistaken about Avery, Avery wants nothing to do with him. Is it too late for Knox to mend fences and befriend her - and maybe become more?

I read this book right after I finished the first one and the changeover was seamless. Knox is a bit of a - insert expletive here - but since there is dual perspective, we can see why he is acting the way he is. It's also fun to see him change his mind. The romance is a slow burn - different from book one where Logan and Kendall couldn't keep their hands off each other. But I thought the anticipation was well worth it. Avery is tough as nails but she's still a woman, and is relatable. I really liked reading their back and forth. Behind the Wheel, out today, is a great addition to the Hearts and Horsepower series and I can't wait to read the others.

Thank you to the author and Give Me Books PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. ​

[Janine - The World Was Hers for the Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

All Avery ever wanted to do was be the best drag racer out there. And she was on her way with a new job at LT Motorsports about to start when she ran into the wall during a race. Now she has to rebuild. While she loves her job it isn't all perfect. Knox is not thrilled she is part if the team

Knox may be attracted to Avery but he doesn't trust her since she used to work with one of LT Motorsports biggest rivals. But when he realizes what caused her to crash, can he push through his distrust to let his real feelings show?

While they had a rocky start they are all in. Knox and the rest of the team quickly become the family Avery has been missing. But a miscommunication has Knox and Avery on the outs. Can the repair the damage or will they both end up alone?

I was able to get into this story and couple much quicker than book one of the series, which has me really excited for what is to come.

Avery is pretty bada$$ being a mechanic and female race car driver. She’s super confident in her abilities and knowledge. . . but is a newbie at relationships. Knox is a real sweetie once he realizes Avery is genuine and not out to hurt LT or his friends. He was more romantic than I thought he would be, which I loved! This couple had a real spark that made for an enjoyable romance. 4 stars!

[Tiffany Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet, Sexy Romance

As the second book in the Hearts & Horsepower series, I see that A.K. Evans has a "way" these books are going to go, as I felt there were a lot of similarities to Control the Burn. I'm not mentioning it in a bad way, just something I noticed.

We met Knox and Avery in Control the Burn and I felt like they were going to have quite the backstory. Knox came across as a guy with a pretty big chip on his shoulder, although we didn't know why then and Avery coming from a competing performance center was bound to cause a little trouble somehow.

While I liked both Knox and Avery, I felt they were making mountains out of molehills, the same as Kendall in the first book. I'm a huge fan of angst, however these problems felt pretty tame to me in the romance book world. I hoped for more nitty gritty with these two, which is why I continued with the series.

The book is well written and sexy as all get out, it didn't check the angst box for me, but was a good read. I rank Knox and Avery higher than Kendall and Logan, but not by much. Behind the Wheel reads as a standalone with a nice epilogue. Ryker is next and I'm thinking I want to know what his troubled past consists of.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving the new series from A.K. Evans and I’m sure it’s going to get stronger with each release in the Hearts and Horsepower Series, Behind the Wheel is book 2 and it’s Avery Sullivan and Knox Lee’s story. It’s well written and it drew me in from the first page and there was no putting down until I had read the final line.
Avery is determined to succeed in the male dominated world of drag racing but her last race ended with her car being destroyed when something went terribly wrong but with a new job working for a racing team she hopes she can rebuild her car and compete again and this is where Knox comes into the story. Knox is the key to getting her car fixed but he is a broody stranger who doesn’t tolerate fools gladly, he keeps himself to himself and it’s going to be hard to get through to the man who has built walls around himself .....
This is one of those books that has you wishing and hoping the hero and heroine get their HEA, it’s a well written romance that has the characters growing as their their story unfolds, the chemistry is sizzling and I was left excited for the next instalment in this series.

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has just the right amount of grit and angst sprinkled among the men, women, and shop to make it feel realistic. Avery is the girl of my teenage heart, what with her knowledge of cars and racing dreams, while Knox is the guy who should know better than to make an assumption, yet that sure didn’t stop him from eating both feet before he catches a clue. And when these two finally get together, it’s a learning experience for everyone involved.

I loved both Avery and Knox, but I especially loved Ryker and his battered heart. Knox’s heart had some dents and dings, Avery’s had long miles of loss, but Ryker’s proved that he’s a romantic who doesn’t want anyone he cares about to hurting they don’t have to. And when he talks some sense into Knox, I knew that his story would have to be next. So now I wait impatiently to see how Ryker will restored to the happiness he’s helped everyone else find in this series so far.

[Vera Blaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Avery Sullivan was 12, she set a goal for herself—to be the best race car driver ever. Several years layers, she’s well on her way but someone has tampered with her race car. When she starts her new job at LT Motorsports, she has a chance to rebuild the car while being the business manager for the shop. Knox Lee is equal parts attracted and wary of her. After all, her previous employer is a rival company.

Both Knox and Avery felt an attraction to each other. But Knox’s rude personality is off putting. When Knox finally sees with his eyes that Avery is the real deal, his remorse was palpable through the pages of the book. Their chemistry was off the charts and their banter was entertaining, especially in the beginning when they weren’t getting along.

It’s been great to see how this series unfolds and I look forward to Ryker’s story next.

I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of A.K. Evans & will devour every new book she releases so it shouldn't shock anyone that I ABSOLUTELY LOVED Behind the Wheel. First of all, Avery is the kind of #GirlPower that I will always get behind, especially since she's trying to shatter glass ceilings in a male dominated field so yeah, WOO HOO! Knox is that man who she shares intense chemistry with, but he kind of came out of the gate mean towards Avery because he  was filled with preconceived notions about her, so he didn't make it easy at first (I called him all kinds of names). However, it doesn't take too long before he's starting to realize that he probably misjudged her, and finally started working with her like an equal. Behind the Wheel is filled with heat, some angst, and a lot of don't judge a book by it's cover going on, so I want you to experience it for yourselves since I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL! 

[Sandie Chraponski · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing more thrilling than being the first off the line on the track, unless it’s the thought of a new story from AK Evans! She has done it yet again. She writes stories with such visual precision that there is no doubt you will visualize exactly what she wants you to. You will almost smell the burn outs on the track.

This is a story about Avery and Knox, their relationship didn’t start smooth or happy but they get there. Avery is alone with no family and is looking for a place to belong, little did she know that by starting a new job not only would she find Knox but she would find a family and a home.

This story will tug at your heart while you experience Avery’s vulnerabilities and you will root for her and Knox. This is the second story in this “Hearts and Horsepower” series and I can not wait for the next one!

[Emma bramley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series by this author. This story follows the characters Avery and Knox. These two characters have amazing instant chemistry between them from the start. I fell in love with these characters from the first page, they were so loveable. This story is romantic and heart breaking. Once you start to read you won't want to put this book down. I loved how the characters from the first book carried on in this story. This is an amazing series. I can't wait to read more.

I was given an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
www.obsessedbookreviews.com

[Floraljoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little slow:
I liked Avery who was spunky and determined to make her mark in a man's world. Knox was broody and a little harder to like however he did become very supportive and caring, which was nice to see. They both had insecurities and hurts from the past that they had to deal with and I liked the growth that they displayed as individuals.
This is an enemies to lovers, slow burn romance and whilst I was cheering for Avery and Knox, I did find myself getting frustrated with them at times and wished that they would just talk and sort things out. Overall I enjoyed this second book in the Hearts & Horsepower series and am enjoying getting to know this group of colleagues and friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the Wheel is the second book in the Hearts and Horsepower series and this one will have you staged and ready to race. Knox and Avery have a rocky start and one that will require a little tuning and all hands on deck. A story that will have your engine purring and the anticipation thrumming through your system. These two will have you captivated as they line up ready to win the race for their hearts. Their story will have you so enchanted you can almost feel the excitement from the crowds and the smell of the burning rubber and fuel. A little angst, a bit of drama and heap of romance and steam to keep you gripped right to the very last page. A series that will have you on the edge of your seat in anticipation as you await the next book.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avery starts a new job with a competing race team and it’s there that she meets Knox. Knox is a welder with the team who has been watching Avery since before she came to work for LT and his mistrust of her causes problems. It takes awhile for them to work their way past their issues but then their relationship burns. I love female characters in untraditional roles so I was rooting for Avery through the whole book and who doesn’t love a broody man that has a sweet center. This is my first book by this author and although this is the second in series there is no need to read book one. I am really looking forward to Rykers story next!

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

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new series is really keeping my attention. The characters are diverse and the stories are unique. Even tho the setting is based around the same place each story makes for compelling reading. Avery is such a courageous bada#s as Hadley puts it. Her life has been filled with love until she was a teenager, alone and avoiding her dream until she finds the courage to strike out and find her happy. Knox and she have a rocky start but once misunderstandings are put right life and love blossom for the couple. Nothing is ever that simple and it takes courage and two fiends to show them the way. A beautiful love story around a unique setting. Great book, can’t wait for Ryker’s book now.

[Niki Rufibach · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in this new series did not disappoint! Avery and Knox are now in my top five favorite books and couples. If you like enemies to lovers books than this is for you.

Avery starts a new job at a new motorsports shop after leaving the rival shop. She is a beautiful and determined woman. Knox works in the new shop and thinks his boss made a huge mistake by hiring someone from the rival motorsports store.

Knox does not have all the facts about Avery and makes some big assumptions about her. After some time he realized how wrong he was about her. After working with her he realizes he would do just about anything for her.

I can't wait for the next book!

[Julie Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read in the Hearts and Horsepower series by Ms. Evans. The visuals created from the author's words made me feel like I was part of it all.

Avery and Knox have their rocky start, full of assumptions and misunderstandings. Almost an enemies to lovers, if that is your trope. I like that Avery is a smart, independent, and driven woman. She works hard and plays harder. Knox has a hard time with his words around Avery, but his actions win her heart.

Will Avery find her people and open her heart? Will Knox realize she is his everything? I am excited to read the next book!

Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the free copy for a voluntary review.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in this series and is Avery and Knox’s journey. Avery is independent and feisty and has a goal to become queen of the drag strip, where she is faced with many challenges trying to succeed in a male dominated world. Knox is a broody fabricator, and when he and Avery must work together, he sees for himself how she is determined to race, and he realizes he has misjudged her only to become her biggest supporter. This is a beautifully written story which has intense chemistry, a tad angst, and is an entertaining and heartwarming story which pulls at the heartstrings. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author thru Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review. This is the high adrenaline romance between Avery and Knox. When misconceptions are made, these two do not start off very well. Avery is trying to make it in this business. Knox thinks a negative thought about Avery every time he sees her at first. She proves him wrong on a few counts and he has to retract a lot of negative in his own minds, to her and to others. Avery and Knox have many roadblocks in front of them but they get thru them for their happy ending

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

[Cathylynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery is a driver, and know everything about cars. She is hired and one of her workers Knox is not happy. Avery use to work for the competition. It took awhile for Knox to warm up to Avery but eventually he did warm up and things got hot. This is a great addition to the Hearts and Horsepower series. I love the characters and I love cars. Avery is perfect and Knox starts off as a jerk, but if he was nice and they got along there would be less a lot less of a story. It hooked and kept me. Cannot wait to read more.

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

[bookspaced · Rating 4 out of 5]

Behind the Wheel is the second book in A.K. Evans new series Hearts & Horsepower. Book two is about Knox and Avery.

Avery is the girl many of us want to be! She‘s a badass race car driver with alot of knowledge of cars and more. In her past she had some major losses which come back to haunt her in this story.
Knox has some dents and bruises in his heart and past but he‘s an amazing guy. Avery and him are perfect for eachother.

I enjoyed their story. It had a good amount of drama, steam and angst.

4⭐️

[One Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤My favourite quote:
“Book boyfriends?” I repeated. She shot me a sympathetic look and clarified, “God’s apology for men in real life.”

I love Avery she is just a determined character ever since she was girl she wanted be a car racer. And she did but her first one didn't go smoothly...

Knox we a jealous prick when he meet Avery. He thought she was ina relationship with her previous employer Ricky (F* Twat) were dating but they weren't

Soon as they put things straight and started dating you just feel them falling in love 🥰

Really recommend!!
AND I can not wait for Ryker story !! 💋

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Avery’s character! She is such a driven individual, and her success on the track definitely proves it. I think that it took a while for Knox to get his head around a girl being in a guy competitive world, but these two have such amazing chemistry to one another and it is really fun to see how they work around each other. This book is full of both fiery romance and quite a bit of action.

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