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Cut to the Feeling #1
Racing into Love
an alternate cover edition can be found here
Derrek's kiss floods me with excitement. Falling for him is a risk. I just have to be willing to take it.
My relationship rut ends when pro racer Derrek Luna speeds into my cozy bookstore and crashes the end of a disastrous date. He's way too risky to fall for, but I can't ignore the sudden sparks between us. It doesn't take long before we're head over heels for each other, and we'll need that love to cross the finish line.
Lap 1: Derrek wants to settle down and stop racing. The woman who runs his life on the track refuses to lose her star without a fight.
Lap 2: The closer I get to Derrek, the angrier my ex-turned-best-friend gets. Is he...jealous?
Lap 3: Someone broke into my bookstore. I'm starting to wonder if Derrek's exes ghosted, or if someone convinced them to disappear.
But I'm tired of playing it safe, even if being with Derrek is risky for more than just my heart.
Racing into Love is a low-angst contemporary M/M instalove romance. Opposites attract in swoony, steamy ways before a guaranteed HEA. It is suggested this series be read in order. Content warnings include: on-page panic attacks.
Derrek's kiss floods me with excitement. Falling for him is a risk. I just have to be willing to take it.
My relationship rut ends when pro racer Derrek Luna speeds into my cozy bookstore and crashes the end of a disastrous date. He's way too risky to fall for, but I can't ignore the sudden sparks between us. It doesn't take long before we're head over heels for each other, and we'll need that love to cross the finish line.
Lap 1: Derrek wants to settle down and stop racing. The woman who runs his life on the track refuses to lose her star without a fight.
Lap 2: The closer I get to Derrek, the angrier my ex-turned-best-friend gets. Is he...jealous?
Lap 3: Someone broke into my bookstore. I'm starting to wonder if Derrek's exes ghosted, or if someone convinced them to disappear.
But I'm tired of playing it safe, even if being with Derrek is risky for more than just my heart.
Racing into Love is a low-angst contemporary M/M instalove romance. Opposites attract in swoony, steamy ways before a guaranteed HEA. It is suggested this series be read in order. Content warnings include: on-page panic attacks.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 12, 2021
95 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Noah Steele
8 books96 followersNoah Steele is a gay author based in Toronto, Canada. His books are low angst, dreamy, steamy reads starring queer characters getting the happy endings they deserve. Queerness is strength, and the men at the heart of his books embody that strength without experiencing queerness as a roadblock to happiness.
Like Noah, they're figuring themselves out and thriving in their whirlwind romantic adventures! When he's not writing, Noah is an avid video gamer and gym-goer.
Like Noah, they're figuring themselves out and thriving in their whirlwind romantic adventures! When he's not writing, Noah is an avid video gamer and gym-goer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 26, 2019
Aiden Reed is a bookshop owner with a crippling fear of cars. Derrek Luna is a race-car driver with a long list of lovers only out for his money. When the two meet, it is clear there is something between them, but with Aiden’s fears, and Derrek’s past, can the two ever it make it in the real world?
This is a Romance, so of course the answer is yes. But boy are you in for one hell of a ride to get there.
I’m not joking about that, either. This story is, in no universe, good. The writing is formulaic. The characters are hardly fleshed out, at all. And the “bad guy” is so obvious as to have you rolling your eyes every time they are on screen. But, my god, did I have a hard time looking away from this beautiful trainwreck. If a story is bad, I usually have an excruciating time reading the book, but despite its many (many) flaws, I could not put this book down. I don’t get it, really, but this book was lot of fun to read.
Do I recommend others pick it up?
…Yeah, no.
If you happen to read it, and end up enjoying it, I’m thrilled. You had a good reading experience, and I’m fully behind that. I had a good one, too. But, sweet Thor, this read like a book that was in no way ready for publishing. Not in a technical sense. I didn’t see formatting or grammatical errors. But everything about the plotting, the characters, the dialogue…it all felt half-baked.
It was like Aiden’s PTSD episodes were based off depictions of flashbacks and breakdowns from TV comedies. Aiden’s first PTSD episode culminated with him screaming and running out of the room, and I dropped my kindle because I was laughing so hard at the mental image. It was so incredibly over the top. But not over the top enough that it seemed like the author was in on the joke. This wasn’t a dark comedy, where everyone is supposed to laugh at the horrible stuff on page. No, I honestly think the author intended this to be serious, but failed in creating characters that felt real, or in any way grounded.
Everything in this story is so over the top. Emotions are exaggerated to the point of absurdity. Who after ONE DATE gets huffy over the thought that the other person might not automatically think they are boyfriends now? At this point in the story, I’m not entirely sure if they knew each other’s last names. I think you might be moving a bit fast there, Derrek. And what is worse, who, after TWO DATES, is telling that person that they love them? It’s been like a week. Have you even had more than three conversations? I’m with Olly on this one, “how can you love someone you don’t even know?” And why, why, for the love of humanity, why, is everyone in this book prone to breaking down in tears at the least provocation? I’m not one to stand by that whole “real men don’t cry” bullshit, but I think a good portion of this book’s cast could do with some therapy, or just a fucking vacation, if their emotions are so frayed by life that the smallest thing could make them break down in tears. I don’t want to jump to conclusions or anything, but it started to feel like that might have been the only way the author had to show emotion in these characters, and relayed on it way to heavily.
And then there is Diana. Sweet, sweet, Diana. Oh, lord. It’s like if you distilled the essence that was the prototypical Gay Romance Bitch, mixed it with a half-ton of crazy, and then added high heels. I do believe the words “You have got to be fucking kidding me,” left my lips near the end of this story. I’m not going to spoil it, for those few brave souls who might ignore my words of wisdom about avoiding this story…but it was magnificent. For all the very wrong reasons. I kinda have to admire Noah Steele for being that certain that they could pull off what was a deeply, deeply, absurd plot twist at the end there. I mean, they failed, but they also tried, and I salute them.
All said, it wasn’t the worst couple hours I’ve ever spent reading, before. I also can’t say I’d push anyone else to read it, though. But, hey, if you do read it, I’d absolutely love to talk to you about the whole beautiful mess, because in all honestly I can’t remember the last time I’ve been so paradoxically amused and incredulous in equal measure.
2.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
This is a Romance, so of course the answer is yes. But boy are you in for one hell of a ride to get there.
I’m not joking about that, either. This story is, in no universe, good. The writing is formulaic. The characters are hardly fleshed out, at all. And the “bad guy” is so obvious as to have you rolling your eyes every time they are on screen. But, my god, did I have a hard time looking away from this beautiful trainwreck. If a story is bad, I usually have an excruciating time reading the book, but despite its many (many) flaws, I could not put this book down. I don’t get it, really, but this book was lot of fun to read.
Do I recommend others pick it up?
…Yeah, no.
If you happen to read it, and end up enjoying it, I’m thrilled. You had a good reading experience, and I’m fully behind that. I had a good one, too. But, sweet Thor, this read like a book that was in no way ready for publishing. Not in a technical sense. I didn’t see formatting or grammatical errors. But everything about the plotting, the characters, the dialogue…it all felt half-baked.
It was like Aiden’s PTSD episodes were based off depictions of flashbacks and breakdowns from TV comedies. Aiden’s first PTSD episode culminated with him screaming and running out of the room, and I dropped my kindle because I was laughing so hard at the mental image. It was so incredibly over the top. But not over the top enough that it seemed like the author was in on the joke. This wasn’t a dark comedy, where everyone is supposed to laugh at the horrible stuff on page. No, I honestly think the author intended this to be serious, but failed in creating characters that felt real, or in any way grounded.
Everything in this story is so over the top. Emotions are exaggerated to the point of absurdity. Who after ONE DATE gets huffy over the thought that the other person might not automatically think they are boyfriends now? At this point in the story, I’m not entirely sure if they knew each other’s last names. I think you might be moving a bit fast there, Derrek. And what is worse, who, after TWO DATES, is telling that person that they love them? It’s been like a week. Have you even had more than three conversations? I’m with Olly on this one, “how can you love someone you don’t even know?” And why, why, for the love of humanity, why, is everyone in this book prone to breaking down in tears at the least provocation? I’m not one to stand by that whole “real men don’t cry” bullshit, but I think a good portion of this book’s cast could do with some therapy, or just a fucking vacation, if their emotions are so frayed by life that the smallest thing could make them break down in tears. I don’t want to jump to conclusions or anything, but it started to feel like that might have been the only way the author had to show emotion in these characters, and relayed on it way to heavily.
And then there is Diana. Sweet, sweet, Diana. Oh, lord. It’s like if you distilled the essence that was the prototypical Gay Romance Bitch, mixed it with a half-ton of crazy, and then added high heels. I do believe the words “You have got to be fucking kidding me,” left my lips near the end of this story. I’m not going to spoil it, for those few brave souls who might ignore my words of wisdom about avoiding this story…but it was magnificent. For all the very wrong reasons. I kinda have to admire Noah Steele for being that certain that they could pull off what was a deeply, deeply, absurd plot twist at the end there. I mean, they failed, but they also tried, and I salute them.
All said, it wasn’t the worst couple hours I’ve ever spent reading, before. I also can’t say I’d push anyone else to read it, though. But, hey, if you do read it, I’d absolutely love to talk to you about the whole beautiful mess, because in all honestly I can’t remember the last time I’ve been so paradoxically amused and incredulous in equal measure.
2.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
January 18, 2019
I'm going to be honest and say this wasn't for me. The beginning of the story the writing felt off somehow, constant use of names (too much for me anyway), and there was a lot of "shouting". The pacing was off, too, but by the middle things seemed to even out.
I didn't really learn anything about these two though. I wanted more backstory, especially about Derrek. Maybe if we had a dual POV? This was only told in Aiden's voice so I think we really missed out...like why Aiden? What made him so special to Derrek from across the room?
Oliver's turn around was too quick for me. It wasn't really believable, for me.
I don't think I'll be moving on to Olly's story, but we'll see.
I didn't really learn anything about these two though. I wanted more backstory, especially about Derrek. Maybe if we had a dual POV? This was only told in Aiden's voice so I think we really missed out...like why Aiden? What made him so special to Derrek from across the room?
Oliver's turn around was too quick for me. It wasn't really believable, for me.
I don't think I'll be moving on to Olly's story, but we'll see.
February 4, 2019
2.5 ⭐
Not bad, not good.
It was ok, but I didn't connect with the characters and the writing style wasn't what I appreciate the most.
Not bad, not good.
It was ok, but I didn't connect with the characters and the writing style wasn't what I appreciate the most.
August 15, 2019
I had the pleasure this week of reading the delightful Cut to the Feeling series by Noah Steele. He offered me books one and two plus a companion novella several months ago as a sort of “package deal.” It was so much fun to start with Aiden and Derrek in Racing Into Love, then follow Oliver into his own love story with Seth in Fighting for Love, while rounding out the experience with the tasty treat of Beckett and Alex’s darling first time romance in Act of Love.
I’m not usually a fan of instalove, but Steele handles it well. I wish I could’ve seen Derrek’s POV to better understand just what it was about Aiden that had him going so gaga, so quick, but sometimes a bit of mystery adds to the experience. Plus, I enjoyed their dynamic and the opportunities both had for growth throughout the story. When we finally reached their HEA, it was well earned. And preceded by an unexpected twist that my readerly heart adored.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves m/m romance but especially those who thrive on that jolt of fantasy and magic inspired by a well-played instalove.
I’m not usually a fan of instalove, but Steele handles it well. I wish I could’ve seen Derrek’s POV to better understand just what it was about Aiden that had him going so gaga, so quick, but sometimes a bit of mystery adds to the experience. Plus, I enjoyed their dynamic and the opportunities both had for growth throughout the story. When we finally reached their HEA, it was well earned. And preceded by an unexpected twist that my readerly heart adored.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves m/m romance but especially those who thrive on that jolt of fantasy and magic inspired by a well-played instalove.
January 14, 2019
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I really give this novel a 4.5/5.0. I have to say that Noah did a great job with his first novel. The characters were relatable for the most part. Does this story contain "insta-love"? Yes.
Does it bother me? No. It's a nice break from the highly involved high fantasy I normally read. And I always say that we don't know if "insta-love" doesn't exist. So, I enjoyed the scenes. There were suspense, action and a good story. It allows a reader to escape reality for a moment, and I like that fact.
I enjoy that cover a lot.
I recommend this novel to everyone.
Does it bother me? No. It's a nice break from the highly involved high fantasy I normally read. And I always say that we don't know if "insta-love" doesn't exist. So, I enjoyed the scenes. There were suspense, action and a good story. It allows a reader to escape reality for a moment, and I like that fact.
I enjoy that cover a lot.
I recommend this novel to everyone.
January 10, 2019
3.5 stars
This was a pretty good debut novel from Noah Steele. I liked it overall.
The beginning of the story did take me a bit to get into as the pacing was a little off and one of the characters came off like a jerk because he did not bother to learn his date's name. Yet, it was a funny read filled with interesting characters.
It is definitely instalove and that trope can either be a hit or miss for some readers. I do not know if it fit this particular story, it sometimes felt a bit flat to me in some parts. Mostly, the middle. I did like the 2 MC's together, the chemistry was there and I did appreciate the humorous banter between them two.
I am wondering how this will evolve as a series and I hope that the main couple in this book continue to grow in the next installments. I wanted just a bit more character growth.
Had the privilege of reading the ARC for this title. I have provided an unbiased review with my honest opinions.
This was a pretty good debut novel from Noah Steele. I liked it overall.
The beginning of the story did take me a bit to get into as the pacing was a little off and one of the characters came off like a jerk because he did not bother to learn his date's name. Yet, it was a funny read filled with interesting characters.
It is definitely instalove and that trope can either be a hit or miss for some readers. I do not know if it fit this particular story, it sometimes felt a bit flat to me in some parts. Mostly, the middle. I did like the 2 MC's together, the chemistry was there and I did appreciate the humorous banter between them two.
I am wondering how this will evolve as a series and I hope that the main couple in this book continue to grow in the next installments. I wanted just a bit more character growth.
Had the privilege of reading the ARC for this title. I have provided an unbiased review with my honest opinions.
January 18, 2019
This was a good debut for this author and it was a good mix of heat a Little angst and suspense and I loved derrek and How He was so understanding so all in all a good debut and I look forward to book number 2
January 25, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
The blurb for this one intrigued me, but from the moment I started reading, I had some major issues. The writing style was not for me. It was choppy and the storyline was underdeveloped. There was a juvenile quality to it that really didn’t work for me. So where the story could have been compelling, it fell short.
I did like that there was something huge the men faced that seemed insurmountable, and that both Aiden and Derrek had to work to find a compromise. I loved that they actually talked and communicated with each other, as that is something that seems rare in a genre where the big misunderstanding fuels so many plots. We definitely don’t have that here, and that’s the only thing that works to this story’s advantage.
But unfortunately, the chemistry that should have been there to make a love at first sight story work was simply missing. There was clear attraction, but I just couldn’t see what would make these two MCs fall in love so quickly. There was nothing binding them together, except for the fact that they said so. For me, this just wasn’t enough to make the story work.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
The blurb for this one intrigued me, but from the moment I started reading, I had some major issues. The writing style was not for me. It was choppy and the storyline was underdeveloped. There was a juvenile quality to it that really didn’t work for me. So where the story could have been compelling, it fell short.
I did like that there was something huge the men faced that seemed insurmountable, and that both Aiden and Derrek had to work to find a compromise. I loved that they actually talked and communicated with each other, as that is something that seems rare in a genre where the big misunderstanding fuels so many plots. We definitely don’t have that here, and that’s the only thing that works to this story’s advantage.
But unfortunately, the chemistry that should have been there to make a love at first sight story work was simply missing. There was clear attraction, but I just couldn’t see what would make these two MCs fall in love so quickly. There was nothing binding them together, except for the fact that they said so. For me, this just wasn’t enough to make the story work.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
March 8, 2019
Inspired with an author takeover by Noah Steele, I picked up a copy of his debut novel Racing Into Love. What I discovered is a new author to follow! This instalove story, with its amusing banter and enormous heart, sucked me in – leaving me with two new fantasy (boy)friends to hold onto.
Our man Aiden Reed runs an inherited bookstore that he loves but at the same time feels he needs more from. An accident at a young age has left Aiden with a panic inducing fear of cars. Aiden has a huge heart but needs a little confidence boost when it comes to his personal encounters.
Then we have Derrek Luna, a race car driver with a cocky attitude. Although at the height of his career, his love life continually crashes and burns when he is ghosted by every man that ignites a spark. Why is that? Well, for Derrek fame and fortune come with the price of outside forces taking control of his everyday life for selfish gain.
First impressions make or break any relationship and for these guys their love story appears doomed from the start. But wait, there is an annoying flame – that lucky for them, and us – is ignited. Aiden and Derrek take us on one intense ride (pun intended) as they navigate the awkwardness and beauty of finding their path to happiness.
This instalove story, with its amusing banter and enormous heart, sucked me in – leaving me with two new fantasy (boy)friends to hold onto.
Racing Into Love is super sweet and sexy, but at the same time manipulating and controlling. As Aiden and Derrek’s lives intertwine we learn more and more about these individuals and discover two souls destined for one another. Each overcome their internal battles and support the other, not just in their words, but actions. As their connection strengthens it builds a strong foundation for them to stand on.
When the plot twist appears it is both a shock and transparent. But the heart wrenching realization behind it is real and enraged this reader – in a compassionate way. How can anyone be so cruel for self-gain? Okay, I live in the real world and this “stuff” happens all the time. However, this is one point in their journey where these men absolutely melt your heart.
I don’t usually equate the characters I read with celebrities, but in this case it was an easy jump. With Aiden I see Benjamin McKenzie and with Derrek I envision Adam Levine. These may not be perfect matches but I think you will agree there are some striking similarities.
Noah Steele has created a captivating start to his standalone Cut to the Feeling series with Racing Into Love. I can imagine he will only become stronger with each installment he pens. I wait patiently (that’s a lie) for Oliver’s story in Fighting For Love, expected to release in April of 2019.
Our man Aiden Reed runs an inherited bookstore that he loves but at the same time feels he needs more from. An accident at a young age has left Aiden with a panic inducing fear of cars. Aiden has a huge heart but needs a little confidence boost when it comes to his personal encounters.
Then we have Derrek Luna, a race car driver with a cocky attitude. Although at the height of his career, his love life continually crashes and burns when he is ghosted by every man that ignites a spark. Why is that? Well, for Derrek fame and fortune come with the price of outside forces taking control of his everyday life for selfish gain.
First impressions make or break any relationship and for these guys their love story appears doomed from the start. But wait, there is an annoying flame – that lucky for them, and us – is ignited. Aiden and Derrek take us on one intense ride (pun intended) as they navigate the awkwardness and beauty of finding their path to happiness.
This instalove story, with its amusing banter and enormous heart, sucked me in – leaving me with two new fantasy (boy)friends to hold onto.
Racing Into Love is super sweet and sexy, but at the same time manipulating and controlling. As Aiden and Derrek’s lives intertwine we learn more and more about these individuals and discover two souls destined for one another. Each overcome their internal battles and support the other, not just in their words, but actions. As their connection strengthens it builds a strong foundation for them to stand on.
When the plot twist appears it is both a shock and transparent. But the heart wrenching realization behind it is real and enraged this reader – in a compassionate way. How can anyone be so cruel for self-gain? Okay, I live in the real world and this “stuff” happens all the time. However, this is one point in their journey where these men absolutely melt your heart.
I don’t usually equate the characters I read with celebrities, but in this case it was an easy jump. With Aiden I see Benjamin McKenzie and with Derrek I envision Adam Levine. These may not be perfect matches but I think you will agree there are some striking similarities.
Noah Steele has created a captivating start to his standalone Cut to the Feeling series with Racing Into Love. I can imagine he will only become stronger with each installment he pens. I wait patiently (that’s a lie) for Oliver’s story in Fighting For Love, expected to release in April of 2019.
December 30, 2018
3.5
This book wasn’t a bad read!
It has insta love, drama and a bit of suspense!
The characters were likeable and the story line was really good.
The thing I found got to me as a reader was it was repetitive with scenes and words!
But I did enjoy it and it’s a great start to a series!
I’m looking forward to more of these guys!!
This book wasn’t a bad read!
It has insta love, drama and a bit of suspense!
The characters were likeable and the story line was really good.
The thing I found got to me as a reader was it was repetitive with scenes and words!
But I did enjoy it and it’s a great start to a series!
I’m looking forward to more of these guys!!
February 5, 2019
This was some pretty solid story building and writing.
Aiden has a full life. He's the owner of a bookstore and the best friend of Oliver, his roommate. He's had a traumatic experience that has left him unable to ride in cars so he's subjected to public transportation to get around. He's also really bad at dating. When he meets Derrek at the bookstore, something tells him to forget his boy troubles and give this a shot.
Derrek loves cars. He's been a professional racer for years and he's not looking to give it up for anything. But when his mind goes straight to thinking about Aiden constantly, he's considering maybe changing things up in the future.
For a first time author, I was blown away at the story. There was so much going on to keep me involved and wanting more. Yes, there was insta-love, but in a good way. They fell hard and fast, but there was also waiting and wanting and sloooooow burn. And then it was ON!
"We're going to devour every inch of each other until there's nothing left."
I loved both Aiden and Derrek. They were each so genuine and true to their characters. I felt the pull they had towards each other and their story was inspiring.
As much as I enjoyed the plot and the action, I felt like the ending was somewhat disassociated from the rest of the story. It just felt like what ended up happening to Aiden changed both of the MC's paths and I'm not sure I felt like it was for the better. It just seemed to come out of nowhere, instead of being something that was dreamed up before or spoken of previously.
Overall, this was an exciting, fast paced read with a burn and an epic love story complete with tons of feels and fun. Definitely recommended and highly entertaining.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Aiden has a full life. He's the owner of a bookstore and the best friend of Oliver, his roommate. He's had a traumatic experience that has left him unable to ride in cars so he's subjected to public transportation to get around. He's also really bad at dating. When he meets Derrek at the bookstore, something tells him to forget his boy troubles and give this a shot.
Derrek loves cars. He's been a professional racer for years and he's not looking to give it up for anything. But when his mind goes straight to thinking about Aiden constantly, he's considering maybe changing things up in the future.
For a first time author, I was blown away at the story. There was so much going on to keep me involved and wanting more. Yes, there was insta-love, but in a good way. They fell hard and fast, but there was also waiting and wanting and sloooooow burn. And then it was ON!
"We're going to devour every inch of each other until there's nothing left."
I loved both Aiden and Derrek. They were each so genuine and true to their characters. I felt the pull they had towards each other and their story was inspiring.
As much as I enjoyed the plot and the action, I felt like the ending was somewhat disassociated from the rest of the story. It just felt like what ended up happening to Aiden changed both of the MC's paths and I'm not sure I felt like it was for the better. It just seemed to come out of nowhere, instead of being something that was dreamed up before or spoken of previously.
Overall, this was an exciting, fast paced read with a burn and an epic love story complete with tons of feels and fun. Definitely recommended and highly entertaining.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
April 13, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A passionate and thrilling insta-love story, with so much heart you can't help but fall for these characters!
I loved Noah's writing style and this was a great debut novel! I could feel the chemistry develop quickly between these two even with the false start. I loved Derrek's passion and his fast-paced everything, from his feelings, thoughts, life, and dates. He's the perfect match for Adien and Noah was able to master the way these two could fall so instantly for each other and is so believable I fell for them too.
Both Aiden and Derrek have a bit of baggage and Noah alludes to this while keeping us guessing. The passion these to share is hot and while their flame ignited quickly they have a connection that could last!
As we know I love a little thrill with my romance and this one was a bit of a surprise. The antagonist in this story might be easy to guess, they are so intrinsically evil you can't help but hate them and hate them with a passion! While the villain seems quite a bit unhinged it is their interference that brings the truth to lights and gives Derrek what he always wanted and deserves! And Noah gives us all the feelings!!
The additional characters in this book are fantastic and I'm so glad we will get to see more of them and have them find their own happy endings too. I love the family they have created together and really look forward to seeing what adventure Noah will take us on next! All I can be saw about is that is will have heart, passionate and all the feelings you could need!!
A great debut novel and I look forward to many more in this insta-love series!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A passionate and thrilling insta-love story, with so much heart you can't help but fall for these characters!
I loved Noah's writing style and this was a great debut novel! I could feel the chemistry develop quickly between these two even with the false start. I loved Derrek's passion and his fast-paced everything, from his feelings, thoughts, life, and dates. He's the perfect match for Adien and Noah was able to master the way these two could fall so instantly for each other and is so believable I fell for them too.
Both Aiden and Derrek have a bit of baggage and Noah alludes to this while keeping us guessing. The passion these to share is hot and while their flame ignited quickly they have a connection that could last!
As we know I love a little thrill with my romance and this one was a bit of a surprise. The antagonist in this story might be easy to guess, they are so intrinsically evil you can't help but hate them and hate them with a passion! While the villain seems quite a bit unhinged it is their interference that brings the truth to lights and gives Derrek what he always wanted and deserves! And Noah gives us all the feelings!!
The additional characters in this book are fantastic and I'm so glad we will get to see more of them and have them find their own happy endings too. I love the family they have created together and really look forward to seeing what adventure Noah will take us on next! All I can be saw about is that is will have heart, passionate and all the feelings you could need!!
A great debut novel and I look forward to many more in this insta-love series!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
June 14, 2020
Noah Steele is a new to me author, I fell in love with the cover and wanted to give the story a chance. After finishing the book I am met with mixed feelings. This is a light read and while the synopsis straight up discloses that it is insta-love, I have a few issues.
Insta-love doesn't mean that the characters have to lack emotional depth. I knew very surface details of Aiden and Derrek but this left the characters as one dimensional. We never really learn what makes them tick, their styles, their nuances, etc. I almost felt disconnected from them when reading. I didn't dislike them, I just wasn't invested in the relationship.
This lack of investment also stems from the fact that this story desperately needed an editor. There were so many little moments where the flow of story would get bumpy. It lacked the fluidity between scenes that make me never want to stop reading. There were also several moments during sex scenes where what was describe in one sentence wasn't what was happening in the next. Which took me out of the mood and moment that these two were sharing.
The plot line is tense and dramatic enough to carry the story but it did feel rushed and I think a part of that is because we are also learning about Aiden's best friend, Oliver at the same time. It wasn't a bad story but it wasn't a memorable one either.
Insta-love doesn't mean that the characters have to lack emotional depth. I knew very surface details of Aiden and Derrek but this left the characters as one dimensional. We never really learn what makes them tick, their styles, their nuances, etc. I almost felt disconnected from them when reading. I didn't dislike them, I just wasn't invested in the relationship.
This lack of investment also stems from the fact that this story desperately needed an editor. There were so many little moments where the flow of story would get bumpy. It lacked the fluidity between scenes that make me never want to stop reading. There were also several moments during sex scenes where what was describe in one sentence wasn't what was happening in the next. Which took me out of the mood and moment that these two were sharing.
The plot line is tense and dramatic enough to carry the story but it did feel rushed and I think a part of that is because we are also learning about Aiden's best friend, Oliver at the same time. It wasn't a bad story but it wasn't a memorable one either.
December 9, 2019
This book was like a Lifetime romance movie and I was all for it. I kept wanting to describe it as “schmoopy” which is not a word I use, but it totally fits. It’s sweet from the very beginning, has some super dramatic twists (that are probably super unrealistic but it worked with the overall feel), and some super steamy bedroom scenes. I’d probably put this as a guilty pleasure read but I have no intention of stopping!
January 23, 2019
What a wonderful debut from Noah Steele! The romance is super sweet and the sexy times are super hot. The plot twist threw me for a loop--totally unexpected--and added more depth to the story. I'm looking forward to reading more from Steele.
December 23, 2019
I had a hard time with this story once it seemed like it was trying to find its legs. The beginning was okay with the introduction of Aiden and the bookstore and bad date, but his meeting of Derrek feels forced and awkward. Their progression from there doesn't make me feel anything other than ambivalent. It's hard to know what to say about it other than it just wasn't my kind of romantic build.
And then the action...not the unsatisfying bedroom kind we were given, but the strange overworked and over-the-top drama action that came from a vocally disruptive character. While Aiden's past kind of made that scene kinda work, it felt completely unnecessary and outrageous. The flow, or whatever could pass as a literary flow, was thrown way off for me. Aiden's romantic issue worked way, way better and should probably have been the main conflict rather than throwing in all the crazy. Using Aiden's difficulty with Derrek's profession worked, but instead of building on that logically with a believable confrontation, we got a whole lot of ... too much.
I didn't dislike this story enough to round 2.5 stars down to 2, but it's definitely not one I'll be re-reading. I'm slightly interested in book 2, so we'll go from there and see if the series can improve because as it stands, it really, really needs more.
And then the action...not the unsatisfying bedroom kind we were given, but the strange overworked and over-the-top drama action that came from a vocally disruptive character. While Aiden's past kind of made that scene kinda work, it felt completely unnecessary and outrageous. The flow, or whatever could pass as a literary flow, was thrown way off for me. Aiden's romantic issue worked way, way better and should probably have been the main conflict rather than throwing in all the crazy. Using Aiden's difficulty with Derrek's profession worked, but instead of building on that logically with a believable confrontation, we got a whole lot of ... too much.
I didn't dislike this story enough to round 2.5 stars down to 2, but it's definitely not one I'll be re-reading. I'm slightly interested in book 2, so we'll go from there and see if the series can improve because as it stands, it really, really needs more.
January 20, 2019
I won't lie
I skipped quite a few chapters in this book. One of my biggest issues with it was that the author kept referring to his characters as "boys" as opposed to the men they're supposed to be. Also, the descriptions of physical movements felt odd, I had a hard time trying to imagine the MEN moving the way he described it. I don't know, I feel like this book needed a little more work to bring forward a connection to and between the characters. Then there was the dumb dialogue - see my notes and highlights - I mean, I didn't list all of the errors, but just enough to give you an idea.
I'm pretty sure I won't be reading anything else from this author, not really feeling his ways.
I skipped quite a few chapters in this book. One of my biggest issues with it was that the author kept referring to his characters as "boys" as opposed to the men they're supposed to be. Also, the descriptions of physical movements felt odd, I had a hard time trying to imagine the MEN moving the way he described it. I don't know, I feel like this book needed a little more work to bring forward a connection to and between the characters. Then there was the dumb dialogue - see my notes and highlights - I mean, I didn't list all of the errors, but just enough to give you an idea.
I'm pretty sure I won't be reading anything else from this author, not really feeling his ways.
March 29, 2019
5 stars!
A great debut from author, Noah Steele! Racing into Love was such a pleasure to read!
Aiden, awkward and opinionated bookstore owner meets Derrek, a cocky confident race car driver. Aiden takes an immediate dislike to the cocky driver, or so he tells himself.
Aiden has a phobia of cars, after a terrible accident, when he was a child. After admitting his attraction to Derrek the sparks fly between the two. But Aiden has major issues with Derrek’s profession. Aiden and Derrek must overcome obstacles to make their relationship work.
This story was a great start for Noah Steele. I didn’t feel as if I was reading a book by a new author. The book had a great pace. I was never bored. The instalove between them was very realistic to me. I found I just couldn’t put this book down. I could literally feel the connection between the two MC’s. I highly recommend Racing into Love, and I’m looking forward to Oliver’s story in book 2!
A great debut from author, Noah Steele! Racing into Love was such a pleasure to read!
Aiden, awkward and opinionated bookstore owner meets Derrek, a cocky confident race car driver. Aiden takes an immediate dislike to the cocky driver, or so he tells himself.
Aiden has a phobia of cars, after a terrible accident, when he was a child. After admitting his attraction to Derrek the sparks fly between the two. But Aiden has major issues with Derrek’s profession. Aiden and Derrek must overcome obstacles to make their relationship work.
This story was a great start for Noah Steele. I didn’t feel as if I was reading a book by a new author. The book had a great pace. I was never bored. The instalove between them was very realistic to me. I found I just couldn’t put this book down. I could literally feel the connection between the two MC’s. I highly recommend Racing into Love, and I’m looking forward to Oliver’s story in book 2!
April 14, 2019
Aiden and Derrick are two incredibly strong characters. The chemistry, the twists and turns draw you in. I genuinely loved this book
October 31, 2020
Simply can't.
The storyline has so much potential but it needs serious editing and some 'background'/'backstories' added to the MCs so it doesn't feel so rushed nor random.
The storyline has so much potential but it needs serious editing and some 'background'/'backstories' added to the MCs so it doesn't feel so rushed nor random.
March 28, 2019
Happy instalove story!
So nice to read a wonderful warm story where no one is tortured about their feelings. Aiden and Derrek are in love and they’re ok with that. Interesting characters that draw you in. Truly a refreshing read ♥️
So nice to read a wonderful warm story where no one is tortured about their feelings. Aiden and Derrek are in love and they’re ok with that. Interesting characters that draw you in. Truly a refreshing read ♥️
January 13, 2019
Just looking for someone who can keep up ;)
Racing into Love is a great title for this book. I normally don’t think much of titles, but this one was all about the book. Not only is it an insta-love, we have Derrek who is also a race car driver. With Aiden the two literally racing into love.
Derrek and Aiden just want to find someone who will stick around, isn’t boring and who can keep up. Both men share backstory which was important to me, especially when it came to Aiden and why he feared being in cars.
I’m a sucker for insta-loves and sweet men. There was also drama and a little suspense all because the two men fell in love and fell fast.
“If I only took one chance on anything for the rest of my life, I was glad I had taken a chance on Derrek Luna.” ~Aiden
I’m glad to see Olly will be getting his own story. I can’t wait!
Racing into Love is a great title for this book. I normally don’t think much of titles, but this one was all about the book. Not only is it an insta-love, we have Derrek who is also a race car driver. With Aiden the two literally racing into love.
Derrek and Aiden just want to find someone who will stick around, isn’t boring and who can keep up. Both men share backstory which was important to me, especially when it came to Aiden and why he feared being in cars.
I’m a sucker for insta-loves and sweet men. There was also drama and a little suspense all because the two men fell in love and fell fast.
“If I only took one chance on anything for the rest of my life, I was glad I had taken a chance on Derrek Luna.” ~Aiden
I’m glad to see Olly will be getting his own story. I can’t wait!
February 1, 2019
As a debut author noah hasn't done too bad of a job. I've definitely tried to read far worse.
My only criticism I really had whilst reading this book was the irritating over use of the word "loosed". It wasn't a word I'd really seen used in writing very much.... So resorted to good old Google to find it's meaning to see if it was even a word... Which it obviously was and was being used correctly. So I think it is just one of those situations where writers learn to use 150 phrases to say the same thing.
Good luck with book 2 I'll look forward to it
My only criticism I really had whilst reading this book was the irritating over use of the word "loosed". It wasn't a word I'd really seen used in writing very much.... So resorted to good old Google to find it's meaning to see if it was even a word... Which it obviously was and was being used correctly. So I think it is just one of those situations where writers learn to use 150 phrases to say the same thing.
Good luck with book 2 I'll look forward to it
December 31, 2018
Racing into Love by Noah Steeleis the first book in the Cut to the Feeling series. Star Racer Derrek crashes into the life of a bookstore owner Aiden, who is afraid of driving in cars since a tragic event in his past. Its an instalove story with drama, steam and sweetness. I loved the characters and the well told story. It's a wild, fun and satisfying ride.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
January 2, 2019
Not a bad start by new author Noah Steele. Definitely Insta Love and/or insta-lust but I completely enjoyed the story of booknerd extraordinaire Aiden...who truly loves to play it super safe...and Derrek, the car racer who wouldn't know safe it it sat on him. These two shouldn't work in the real-world, especially with Aiden's issues BUT they do in this story. Intrigue and suspense round out the quest for an HEA!
January 16, 2019
💫⭐️💫⭐️4 Great Debut Stars💫⭐️💫⭐️
This is a great debut story by Noah Steele! This is the story of Aiden, a bookstore owner, and Derrek, a popular race car driver. It’s also about an unrequited love. There is a lot going on in the story which makes it good. There is instant attraction, a money hungry agent, an unrealized dream, a kidnapping, and a sweet romance. What else could there be? A romantic HEA.
This is a great debut story by Noah Steele! This is the story of Aiden, a bookstore owner, and Derrek, a popular race car driver. It’s also about an unrequited love. There is a lot going on in the story which makes it good. There is instant attraction, a money hungry agent, an unrealized dream, a kidnapping, and a sweet romance. What else could there be? A romantic HEA.
February 10, 2019
This was a story of two different people that come together. We see where Aiden fears is coming from, but will he truly be able to be with Derrek. How can two people be together when one life evolves around cars and another has anxiety getting into one..If you like to read a story with happy ending that helps their partner overcome their fear. Cant wait to see what is coming next from this author. Highly recommend this book
January 15, 2019
Great first novel by Noah Steele!
Racing into Love is a gay instalove romance novel. Aiden has been going through a series of bad dates until one day he meets the hot and racey Derrek. This story has elements of friendship, tragedy, self love, and acceptance between steamy scenes of cute boys. Definitely looking forward to the next in the Cut to the Feeling series!
Racing into Love is a gay instalove romance novel. Aiden has been going through a series of bad dates until one day he meets the hot and racey Derrek. This story has elements of friendship, tragedy, self love, and acceptance between steamy scenes of cute boys. Definitely looking forward to the next in the Cut to the Feeling series!
January 14, 2019
Racing into Love is a great debut for Noah Steele. Its an instalove story with drama, steam and sweetness. The characters are both cute and weird... which I love.
Definitely worth reading and I can't wait to read book 2!
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Definitely worth reading and I can't wait to read book 2!
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
January 16, 2019
Loved it!
Great debut!! I didn't think I was into the instant-love thing... BUT I AM KIND OF INTO IT NOW?? So darn cute! I really enjoyed this.
Annnnd.....I definitely spent half the book PRAYING for a sequel to feature Oliver. He seems like such a sweetheart. The teaser at the end did NOT disappoint!
Great debut!! I didn't think I was into the instant-love thing... BUT I AM KIND OF INTO IT NOW?? So darn cute! I really enjoyed this.
Annnnd.....I definitely spent half the book PRAYING for a sequel to feature Oliver. He seems like such a sweetheart. The teaser at the end did NOT disappoint!
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