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Make My Heart Race
Tally Palmer had always wanted to drive fast and kick ass, in that order. She’d earned her place as a NASCAR driver. She followed the rules, paid her dues, and didn’t make any mistakes.
Except one. She fell in love with a boy.
In the blink of an eye, Tally’s dreams went up in smoke. The fallout from that moment reverberated through her life but eventually her name was forgotten and the next ‘big thing’ took her place.
Six months later, Tally was in trouble again, but this time, the consequences would last forever, or at least eighteen years. She needed a nest egg ASAP and she was only good at one driving recklessly fast.
At a late night illegal street race, her life would once again change. Running into an old crush was unexpected, and the lifeline that he threw her even more so. A lifeline that would once again put her in touching distance of her dreams. Sure, it would be different, and would come with three extremely sexy distractions, but there was hope.
But the past never stays where it belongs, and soon enough it’s more than just her dreams of driving that are under threat.
This is a motorsports romance, including F1 and IndyCar. Our pregnant FMC has more than one love interest and doesn't have to choose in the end.
Except one. She fell in love with a boy.
In the blink of an eye, Tally’s dreams went up in smoke. The fallout from that moment reverberated through her life but eventually her name was forgotten and the next ‘big thing’ took her place.
Six months later, Tally was in trouble again, but this time, the consequences would last forever, or at least eighteen years. She needed a nest egg ASAP and she was only good at one driving recklessly fast.
At a late night illegal street race, her life would once again change. Running into an old crush was unexpected, and the lifeline that he threw her even more so. A lifeline that would once again put her in touching distance of her dreams. Sure, it would be different, and would come with three extremely sexy distractions, but there was hope.
But the past never stays where it belongs, and soon enough it’s more than just her dreams of driving that are under threat.
This is a motorsports romance, including F1 and IndyCar. Our pregnant FMC has more than one love interest and doesn't have to choose in the end.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2024
356 people are currently reading
1114 people want to read
About the author
Grace McGinty
64 books2,088 followersWhen I was nine, my grandmother and her friends used to read and swap Harlequin Mills and Boons novels. When I was busted reading one, they started sneaking me boxes full of strong heroines and rugged men. Thus started a long love affair with the romance genre.
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
May 5, 2024
There is something about giving a man a baby that instantly elevates his character📈. They could have the worst personality in the world, but as soon as they start cooing, rocking or caring for an infant, they are immediately forgiven for any d*ckish comments and become 100% more attractive.
The ‘worse personality’ comment doesn’t describe the characters in this book (they are all pretty lovable), but the MMC/baby scenes in this made me melt. I’m in a puddle on the floor 🫠
👇No big spoilers👇
I haven’t read a ton of books that feature sportswomen, except for First Flight, Final Fall which is one of my favourites. In most sports romances, the FMC is usually cheering on the sidelines or acting as a support system for the MMC. This was not the case in this book, as she was a star in her own right and thrived in this male-dominated industry. Despite the sh*t people threw at her or negative assumptions that were made about her.
She came across as so fierce/badass and delivered some of my favourite lines.
Example: "Sure, tell him I said to go f*ck himself too. I mean, if he takes his c**k from your mouth long enough for you to get a whole sentence out."
This was pretty poetic and an extremely warranted response to a sexist, rude old dude. I want to be her when I grow up, despite the fact she is a year younger than me 🥲
I sometimes got slightly lost when the sport was mentioned in greater detail, but I think I had a general understanding of it 😅 I personally know nothing about racing, so this book was pretty insightful/informative. It focuses on two types of competitive racing NASCAR and IndyCar, which are apparently different.
1 Different tracks 🏁
2 Different cars 🏎️
3 Different audiences 🤷♀️
From what I understood anyway.
The MMCs were all slightly different and made up for parts in this relationship that another may lack. I didn’t really see one of the relationships coming, but this was by far my favourite one. I did wish it was just this MMC at times because I am a sucker for (kind of) enemies to lovers, lots of sexual tension and a little bit of loathing. Some of these parts were also very funny. The other guys were great also but they had a much smoother introduction.
I loved that there were cross-over characters from some of her other books. It’s like seeing a friend again that you didn’t know you were going to see. My reaction is always ‘OMG what the f**k are you doing here’ 😂 In this book there are lots of examples of poly couples, so it was normalised a tiny bit.
Overall it was a really sweet read and I can’t wait to read more of her books !!!
The Daymakers is also a favourite of mine from this author, so definitely read this as well if you haven’t 💕
The ‘worse personality’ comment doesn’t describe the characters in this book (they are all pretty lovable), but the MMC/baby scenes in this made me melt. I’m in a puddle on the floor 🫠
👇No big spoilers👇
I haven’t read a ton of books that feature sportswomen, except for First Flight, Final Fall which is one of my favourites. In most sports romances, the FMC is usually cheering on the sidelines or acting as a support system for the MMC. This was not the case in this book, as she was a star in her own right and thrived in this male-dominated industry. Despite the sh*t people threw at her or negative assumptions that were made about her.
She came across as so fierce/badass and delivered some of my favourite lines.
Example: "Sure, tell him I said to go f*ck himself too. I mean, if he takes his c**k from your mouth long enough for you to get a whole sentence out."
This was pretty poetic and an extremely warranted response to a sexist, rude old dude. I want to be her when I grow up, despite the fact she is a year younger than me 🥲
I sometimes got slightly lost when the sport was mentioned in greater detail, but I think I had a general understanding of it 😅 I personally know nothing about racing, so this book was pretty insightful/informative. It focuses on two types of competitive racing NASCAR and IndyCar, which are apparently different.
1 Different tracks 🏁
2 Different cars 🏎️
3 Different audiences 🤷♀️
From what I understood anyway.
The MMCs were all slightly different and made up for parts in this relationship that another may lack. I didn’t really see one of the relationships coming, but this was by far my favourite one. I did wish it was just this MMC at times because I am a sucker for (kind of) enemies to lovers, lots of sexual tension and a little bit of loathing. Some of these parts were also very funny. The other guys were great also but they had a much smoother introduction.
I loved that there were cross-over characters from some of her other books. It’s like seeing a friend again that you didn’t know you were going to see. My reaction is always ‘OMG what the f**k are you doing here’ 😂 In this book there are lots of examples of poly couples, so it was normalised a tiny bit.
Overall it was a really sweet read and I can’t wait to read more of her books !!!
The Daymakers is also a favourite of mine from this author, so definitely read this as well if you haven’t 💕
April 24, 2024
Genre: sports (racecar) why choose romance
My format: eBook 📱#ARC
⭐: 4.5
🌶️: 3
Feels: 🥹😂
Darkness: 🖤🖤
(Want to understand my rating scale? Click here to see my post on IG where I break it down!)
Grace McGinty has solidified her place as an auto-read author for me, and this book only reaffirms that sentiment. This story is a beautiful mix of character growth, heart-warming moments, action, and spice.
Tally, our fierce FMC, initially has everything going for her—a coveted spot on a NASCAR team, a budding relationship with a fellow driver, and a burgeoning reputation in a male-dominated domain. But life takes an unexpected turn, crashing her world down around her, leaving her ostracised from the circuit and saddled with more baggage than she bargained for.
Throughout the book, we see Tally’s family grow in so many ways:
Jesse is sweetness personified with a bad-boy exterior
Hayes is a dirty-talking genius
Rocco is giving German Shepherd energy
NORTON IS THE STAR OF THE SHOW and also giving German Shepherd energy
The baby be cute too I guess
Extended family with Willy Love and the team
Witnessing the growth of all four main characters, particularly Tally's journey as she finds her stride with the support of her men and her little one, was an absolute delight. The inclusion of cameos from McGinty's other characters made it all the more special, and reminded me why I loved her other books so much (absolutely dying for the Daymakers audiobook!)
Once again, Grace delivers a phenomenal read that had me completely engrossed from start to finish.
My format: eBook 📱#ARC
⭐: 4.5
🌶️: 3
Feels: 🥹😂
Darkness: 🖤🖤
(Want to understand my rating scale? Click here to see my post on IG where I break it down!)
Grace McGinty has solidified her place as an auto-read author for me, and this book only reaffirms that sentiment. This story is a beautiful mix of character growth, heart-warming moments, action, and spice.
Tally, our fierce FMC, initially has everything going for her—a coveted spot on a NASCAR team, a budding relationship with a fellow driver, and a burgeoning reputation in a male-dominated domain. But life takes an unexpected turn, crashing her world down around her, leaving her ostracised from the circuit and saddled with more baggage than she bargained for.
Throughout the book, we see Tally’s family grow in so many ways:
Jesse is sweetness personified with a bad-boy exterior
Hayes is a dirty-talking genius
Rocco is giving German Shepherd energy
NORTON IS THE STAR OF THE SHOW and also giving German Shepherd energy
The baby be cute too I guess
Extended family with Willy Love and the team
Witnessing the growth of all four main characters, particularly Tally's journey as she finds her stride with the support of her men and her little one, was an absolute delight. The inclusion of cameos from McGinty's other characters made it all the more special, and reminded me why I loved her other books so much (absolutely dying for the Daymakers audiobook!)
Once again, Grace delivers a phenomenal read that had me completely engrossed from start to finish.
May 20, 2024
Loved the plot and premise of this one. 30 Seconds to Fly by the same author was a great book and coming in hot with another feisty sportswoman is right up my alley. It was entertaining but I wanted more from it!
-more chemistry and connections between the love interests
-more emotions about her pregnancy and child. Ex How did she feel about going back into the dangerous sport that had killed her lover and her child’s biological father? Was she worried how her daughter would feel about that?
-one of the MMC has a personality change-but there’s not much behind it other than that he loves kids and grew up taking care of his siblings. That def could have been eased into and explored more. Why would he be willing to share his SO given the lifestyle he has led? Why did he act that way? It was really glossed over. They justify the lifestyle with the presence of other poly couples, it didn’t feel like they actually fall in love.
-it just all felt lusty and convenient, I would’ve loved more tension and digging deeper into characters.
-like her dark River days series the FMC is described as average looking compared to the ultra hot, sexy and conventionally attractive FMC the MMC usually dates. But he’s with her for “reasons”.
-more chemistry and connections between the love interests
-more emotions about her pregnancy and child. Ex How did she feel about going back into the dangerous sport that had killed her lover and her child’s biological father? Was she worried how her daughter would feel about that?
-one of the MMC has a personality change-but there’s not much behind it other than that he loves kids and grew up taking care of his siblings. That def could have been eased into and explored more. Why would he be willing to share his SO given the lifestyle he has led? Why did he act that way? It was really glossed over. They justify the lifestyle with the presence of other poly couples, it didn’t feel like they actually fall in love.
-it just all felt lusty and convenient, I would’ve loved more tension and digging deeper into characters.
-like her dark River days series the FMC is described as average looking compared to the ultra hot, sexy and conventionally attractive FMC the MMC usually dates. But he’s with her for “reasons”.
April 24, 2024
" There were only three things in life that gave me the same risk-to-reward thrill as motor racing. Discounted end-of-the-day sushi. Petting an orange cat. Sleeping with another driver on the grid."
Two things sold me on reading this
1. Well, Grace McGinty, hello...
2. The FMC is a NASCAR driver.
This was such an amazing read. It is so different from what I've read before and loved every bit of it. The story flowed effortlessly, and the ending is perfect.
Tropes & TWs include
🏎 motor sports romance
🏎 why choose
🏎 MM relationship (not in harem)
🏎 pregnancy
🏎 💀 (not in harem)
and more
Two things sold me on reading this
1. Well, Grace McGinty, hello...
2. The FMC is a NASCAR driver.
This was such an amazing read. It is so different from what I've read before and loved every bit of it. The story flowed effortlessly, and the ending is perfect.
Tropes & TWs include
🏎 motor sports romance
🏎 why choose
🏎 MM relationship (not in harem)
🏎 pregnancy
🏎 💀 (not in harem)
and more
December 18, 2024
DNF. I’m actually very sorry to say I didnt finish this book. I’m really disappointed. I loved the Daymakera though there was missing something there too. But Make My Heart Race was a disappointment from the beginning.
I couldn’t connect with Tally and her hardship at all. Why? There’s literally no time to connect. Her ‘date’ isn’t more than a kiss in the air before the fatal accident. The heartache she experiences from that and the way her team treats her after, the months after that - it’s all tell and no show at all. The story basically begins when she asks her best friend to borrow his Porsche so she can do some illegal street racing.
I don’t feel any tension, attraction or interest apart from shallow lust between Hayes, Jesse and Tally. All this too is tell instead of show. We skip their bonding mostly. There’s also the very impassioned way of ‘establising their trouple’. Like, I know having an adult conversation about this is good but did it have to be like this? It felt like an interview for a job and when she accepted the job they had (imo very unsexy) sex.
After that it’s again a lot of tell instead of show. At that point I also realised the book is very ‘damsel in distress needs saving’. Tally might come across like strong but the general idea behind the relationship feels like saving. And let’s be honest, I’m a woman who has no trouble if a guy(s) wants to care for their woman! But this was different. Maybe because i couldnt connect with them.
Then Rocco is introduced. He’s a pompous ass but instead of making him interesting, it falls flat. At least, for me. Again, I don’t feel any attraction between the two. I appreciate him intervening with the journalist who’s somebody who should have a foot up his ass permanently, obviously, and I like the scene after - but again, I don’t feel it.
I don’t feel Tally’s elation. I don’t feel Tally’s worries or joys about the pregnancy. I don’t feel Tally’s interest or even lust for any of the guys. And knowing that I’ve read books by Mcginty that touched me greatly, I feel so disappointed.
I couldn’t connect with Tally and her hardship at all. Why? There’s literally no time to connect. Her ‘date’ isn’t more than a kiss in the air before the fatal accident. The heartache she experiences from that and the way her team treats her after, the months after that - it’s all tell and no show at all. The story basically begins when she asks her best friend to borrow his Porsche so she can do some illegal street racing.
I don’t feel any tension, attraction or interest apart from shallow lust between Hayes, Jesse and Tally. All this too is tell instead of show. We skip their bonding mostly. There’s also the very impassioned way of ‘establising their trouple’. Like, I know having an adult conversation about this is good but did it have to be like this? It felt like an interview for a job and when she accepted the job they had (imo very unsexy) sex.
After that it’s again a lot of tell instead of show. At that point I also realised the book is very ‘damsel in distress needs saving’. Tally might come across like strong but the general idea behind the relationship feels like saving. And let’s be honest, I’m a woman who has no trouble if a guy(s) wants to care for their woman! But this was different. Maybe because i couldnt connect with them.
Then Rocco is introduced. He’s a pompous ass but instead of making him interesting, it falls flat. At least, for me. Again, I don’t feel any attraction between the two. I appreciate him intervening with the journalist who’s somebody who should have a foot up his ass permanently, obviously, and I like the scene after - but again, I don’t feel it.
I don’t feel Tally’s elation. I don’t feel Tally’s worries or joys about the pregnancy. I don’t feel Tally’s interest or even lust for any of the guys. And knowing that I’ve read books by Mcginty that touched me greatly, I feel so disappointed.
April 17, 2024
I was graced (pun intended) with a ARC and let me just say, Grace does it again! She is one of my FAVORITE authors to read. This book was so good, it sucked me in and I read this in less than a day! It hit all of my favorite tropes, Found Family, Why Choose, Surprise Pregnancy, Kick Ass FMC and Protective by sweet MMC’s. Grace has the amazing ability balancing out an amazing plot/storyline with the best spicy scenes, witty punch lines and then add in the suspense! **chefs kiss
I laughed, I cried and I loved it!
I laughed, I cried and I loved it!
April 16, 2024
There will never be a time in which I don’t look forward to a new Grace McGinty book. She’s one of my favorite writers–an auto-buy author, in fact. I knew I was done for the first time I read her Dead River Days series. She can even get me to read tropes I usually stay away from with a ten-foot pole, as evident with Make My Heart Race, in which the FMC is pregnant for a large part of the book and has an infant for the rest of it. Not only do I usually stay away from the pregnancy trope, but I don’t tend to enjoy infants in the main part of the story (in epilogues they’re great). Somehow, Grace McGinty will get me to shrug my shoulders and read it anyway.
Was I disappointed this why-choose didn’t have sword-crossing? Yeah, sure, but to tell you the truth, this book had a lot going on. Between the main plot involving Tally (our FMC), her pregnancy, and trying to climb her way back into the world of racing after being driven out by misogynistic buttheads, there’s a few B plots and even C plots running through the story that make this book very fast-paced. It also unfortunately tends to make it feel a little crowded in places and some characters and/or situations didn’t get the time and attention they deserved. I honestly could’ve dealt with this book being longer if it meant certain characters got more page time or relationships got to develop with a little less force or certain plot points weren’t as rushed to resolution.
Does that mean this book wasn’t extremely entertaining? No. As all of Grace’s books, it was entertaining as heck. I love romance novels set in the world of motorsports. I grew up in motorsports, in the pits on Saturday nights with my dad sitting inside of race cars pretending to drive while my dad and uncle talked shop with mechanics and other crew members. My dad would’ve let me drive midgets if we’d had the money. I’ve been on a superbike. I’ve been in the car during a street race. There’s just something about fast cars, and this book reminded me of that.
I was provided a copy of this title by the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Contemporary Romance/Found Family/Kindle Unlimited/Polyamorous Romance/Spice Level 3/Sports Romance/Standalone Novel/Why Choose Romance/Workplace Romance
Was I disappointed this why-choose didn’t have sword-crossing? Yeah, sure, but to tell you the truth, this book had a lot going on. Between the main plot involving Tally (our FMC), her pregnancy, and trying to climb her way back into the world of racing after being driven out by misogynistic buttheads, there’s a few B plots and even C plots running through the story that make this book very fast-paced. It also unfortunately tends to make it feel a little crowded in places and some characters and/or situations didn’t get the time and attention they deserved. I honestly could’ve dealt with this book being longer if it meant certain characters got more page time or relationships got to develop with a little less force or certain plot points weren’t as rushed to resolution.
Does that mean this book wasn’t extremely entertaining? No. As all of Grace’s books, it was entertaining as heck. I love romance novels set in the world of motorsports. I grew up in motorsports, in the pits on Saturday nights with my dad sitting inside of race cars pretending to drive while my dad and uncle talked shop with mechanics and other crew members. My dad would’ve let me drive midgets if we’d had the money. I’ve been on a superbike. I’ve been in the car during a street race. There’s just something about fast cars, and this book reminded me of that.
I was provided a copy of this title by the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Contemporary Romance/Found Family/Kindle Unlimited/Polyamorous Romance/Spice Level 3/Sports Romance/Standalone Novel/Why Choose Romance/Workplace Romance
April 25, 2024
Awesome read
This book completely sucked me in - I totally forgot to adult and spent all day on my couch immersed in this story that was so amazing. First of all I thought the story centering around professional race car driving was different and fun. I'm not super familiar with the sport but it made for a great setting. Also, I loved Tally. She was no push over, not surprising for a female in a male dominated sport. But she was sure of herself, her worth and who she was and was unapologetic about it. I also liked how she defended those she loved and considered family. She definitely got the short end of the stick at the beginning of this story. Then there was Hayes and Jesse who had me swooning from the very beginning. They were so sweet and adorable and accepting and it was so, so hard not to fall in love with them. Right when you start getting comfortable in the story and all is going great Bam! New surprise or was it? But then Rocco steps in and fits in seamlessly with the little family and all you can do sigh and dream about these men....I mean dreamily enjoy this story...They way they all loved Tally and Bobbi-June makes your heart melt and your ovaries jump. I loved this story from start to finish - it was emotional, sweet, sexy and one you'll reread again and again.
This book completely sucked me in - I totally forgot to adult and spent all day on my couch immersed in this story that was so amazing. First of all I thought the story centering around professional race car driving was different and fun. I'm not super familiar with the sport but it made for a great setting. Also, I loved Tally. She was no push over, not surprising for a female in a male dominated sport. But she was sure of herself, her worth and who she was and was unapologetic about it. I also liked how she defended those she loved and considered family. She definitely got the short end of the stick at the beginning of this story. Then there was Hayes and Jesse who had me swooning from the very beginning. They were so sweet and adorable and accepting and it was so, so hard not to fall in love with them. Right when you start getting comfortable in the story and all is going great Bam! New surprise or was it? But then Rocco steps in and fits in seamlessly with the little family and all you can do sigh and dream about these men....I mean dreamily enjoy this story...They way they all loved Tally and Bobbi-June makes your heart melt and your ovaries jump. I loved this story from start to finish - it was emotional, sweet, sexy and one you'll reread again and again.
September 17, 2024
4 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
･ ｡ﾟ☆:Make My Heart Race *.☽ .*:☆ﾟ
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶
Tally Palmer (h) had always been driven by a need for speed and a fierce determination to excel in NASCAR. She earned her spot on the track by playing by the rules, staying sharp, and avoiding mistakes. However, she made one critical error: she fell in love with a boy. That single misstep led to her dreams crashing down, leaving her sidelined as the spotlight shifted to the next big star. Six months later, Tally finds herself in an even tighter spot—pregnant and in desperate need of financial stability. In a stroke of fate at a late-night illegal street race, Tally reconnects with an old crush who offers her a lifeline. This chance encounter not only puts her back in the racing game but also brings her into the orbit of three incredibly charming men.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: THOUGHTS*.☽ .*:☆ﾟ. ───
I absolutely adored this book. It struck the perfect balance between plot and romance. What I loved most was how the emotional support came first before things got physical. The characters, including the harem, had such a genuine emotional connection that was really clear throughout. Even if they hadn’t been intimate, you could feel the love and care they had for each other. One of the standout aspects for me was how Hayes, Jesse, and Rocco were always there for Tally, especially when she needed it the most. Their constant support really fueled her passion and made a huge difference. Plus, the whole dynamic of raising Bobbi-June was such a heartwarming part of the book. It’s definitely one I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
[Hayes]
So, Hayes really stole the show for me in this book. He was a major advocate for Tally’s career, and I think that’s such a standout quality. He was there for her when she was in NASCAR, and even when he left because he felt she wasn’t being treated right after being blacklisted, it was clear he really cared. I’m glad he came back into her life for her new IndyCar journey. From the get-go, Hayes was head over heels for Tally, even when she wasn’t interested because she was with someone else. It was a bit of unrequited love on his part, but when they reconnected, it was like she finally saw those lingering feelings she hadn’t explored before. Their dynamic is so much more than just this past unrequited love. They genuinely share a passion for cars and match each other’s energy perfectly. What I love most is how Hayes supports Tally’s ambitions. He’s not just her cheerleader; he’s actively fighting for her to get opportunities, like vouching for her to be a reserve driver. And the way he treats her, especially her daughter Bobbi-June, is just heartwarming. He treats her like his own, and that says so much about his character. Hayes could have been content just being her friend because he cared for her that much, but once they were together, he showed her even more devotion. His love is so evident in the way he speaks to her, treats her, and supports her. Hayes is not just a great addition to the harem; he’s a crucial part of her life. His communication, trust, and all-around lovable personality make him a standout character and a perfect match for Tally.
[Jesse]
Jesse was a bit of a wild card in this book. I wasn’t sure how he’d fit into the harem since he didn’t have any background history with Tally, but he really won me over. The first time we see them together is when he beats her at a street race and, being the stand-up guy he is, gives her the winnings because she’s pregnant. She tries to refuse the charity, but from there, their dynamic starts to shift. They end up living next door to each other, and Jesse steps up, taking care of her and supporting her through a business proposal. It’s through all this close proximity that they start to bond and become friends. They’re around each other all the time, so it’s only natural they’d start developing feelings. One of the main issues for Jesse is that he doesn’t want to come between his best friend, who’s also interested in Tally. Friendship is super important to him, and he really values his friends’ opinions. He’s committed to being respectful of both his friendship and his relationship with Tally. What I loved about this book was the open communication among everyone. They all talked things through, which was crucial in a polyamorous setup. Jesse’s openness and willingness to share Tally with Hayes was impressive. And when Rocco came into the mix, Jesse was just as open to it, even though he wasn’t sure how things would work with a third person. Jesse’s character is just so wholesome. He becomes a stay-at-home dad and really embraces the family-oriented role. It’s clear he’s protective and loving, and he worships Tally.His willingness to put aside his own feelings for the sake of the group dynamic really stood out. Overall, Jesse’s an amazing addition to the story—loving, protective, and incredibly supportive.
[Rocco]
Rocco’s introduction was a bit of a rollercoaster. He came across as this egotistical Formula One driver with a reputation for being self-centered and having a bad media image. But, wow, was he different around Tally and the guys. He was such a sweetheart and genuinely caring, especially with Bobbi-June. His Italian charm really shone through, and it was impossible not to have a soft spot for him. He turned out to be an amazing dad figure and a huge support system. When Tally needed to win the custody battle, Rocco stepped up without hesitation. He agreed to marry her to help with the legal situation, which was a big deal. It’s clear he was already interested in Tally, but he thought he didn’t stand a chance with Hayes and Jesse in the picture. The marriage arrangement ended up being a brilliant twist, adding a new layer to their polyamorous setup. What I really appreciated was how smoothly the dynamics worked out. The group relationship felt natural, like a close-knit circle of friends who just happened to love each other. Rocco’s role in the group was a perfect fit, and his genuine support and love for Tally and her daughter made him an integral part of the story.
So, the book left me with a bunch of questions and open threads. Like, I’m curious about Jesse’s mom and her reaction to him being in a polyamorous relationship. It would’ve been interesting to see more of how she deals with that, and Rocco’s family, especially his sisters, also seemed like they could have added another layer to the story. Despite these lingering questions, I feel pretty satisfied with how things wrapped up. Tally’s journey feels like it’s just beginning, which is a comforting thought. She’s finally in a place where she can focus on her career and get back into driving, despite the setback of being blacklisted because of that wealthy, privileged guy. The book had its rushed moments, especially with the arrest and the spontaneous accident where she and Hayes almost died, but honestly, it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. The story was engaging from start to finish, and I loved the characters. Even though there were areas that could have been fleshed out more, I wouldn’t change a thing. The book delivered exactly what I hoped for, and I’m content with how it ended, leaving me excited about what comes next for Tally and the crew.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: OVERALL*.☽ .*:☆ﾟ. ───
I’d definitely recommend this book if you’re dipping your toes into reverse harems. It’s an easy, quick read with a solid plot, and there’s something really warm and fluffy about it. It’s got all the elements I love: family dynamics, motorsport excitement, and a pregnancy subplot.
･ ｡ﾟ☆:Make My Heart Race *.☽ .*:☆ﾟ
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶
You make me Feel like I'm livin' a teenage dream. The way you turn me on, I can't sleep🎶
Tally Palmer (h) had always been driven by a need for speed and a fierce determination to excel in NASCAR. She earned her spot on the track by playing by the rules, staying sharp, and avoiding mistakes. However, she made one critical error: she fell in love with a boy. That single misstep led to her dreams crashing down, leaving her sidelined as the spotlight shifted to the next big star. Six months later, Tally finds herself in an even tighter spot—pregnant and in desperate need of financial stability. In a stroke of fate at a late-night illegal street race, Tally reconnects with an old crush who offers her a lifeline. This chance encounter not only puts her back in the racing game but also brings her into the orbit of three incredibly charming men.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: THOUGHTS*.☽ .*:☆ﾟ. ───
I absolutely adored this book. It struck the perfect balance between plot and romance. What I loved most was how the emotional support came first before things got physical. The characters, including the harem, had such a genuine emotional connection that was really clear throughout. Even if they hadn’t been intimate, you could feel the love and care they had for each other. One of the standout aspects for me was how Hayes, Jesse, and Rocco were always there for Tally, especially when she needed it the most. Their constant support really fueled her passion and made a huge difference. Plus, the whole dynamic of raising Bobbi-June was such a heartwarming part of the book. It’s definitely one I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
[Hayes]
“If you need anything, call me, Tally,” he whispered against my hair.
“I mean it. Call me anytime. You still have my number.”
“Yeah, Hayes. I do.”
So, Hayes really stole the show for me in this book. He was a major advocate for Tally’s career, and I think that’s such a standout quality. He was there for her when she was in NASCAR, and even when he left because he felt she wasn’t being treated right after being blacklisted, it was clear he really cared. I’m glad he came back into her life for her new IndyCar journey. From the get-go, Hayes was head over heels for Tally, even when she wasn’t interested because she was with someone else. It was a bit of unrequited love on his part, but when they reconnected, it was like she finally saw those lingering feelings she hadn’t explored before. Their dynamic is so much more than just this past unrequited love. They genuinely share a passion for cars and match each other’s energy perfectly. What I love most is how Hayes supports Tally’s ambitions. He’s not just her cheerleader; he’s actively fighting for her to get opportunities, like vouching for her to be a reserve driver. And the way he treats her, especially her daughter Bobbi-June, is just heartwarming. He treats her like his own, and that says so much about his character. Hayes could have been content just being her friend because he cared for her that much, but once they were together, he showed her even more devotion. His love is so evident in the way he speaks to her, treats her, and supports her. Hayes is not just a great addition to the harem; he’s a crucial part of her life. His communication, trust, and all-around lovable personality make him a standout character and a perfect match for Tally.
[Jesse]
But she was beautiful. She looked like a Renaissance painting of some wild goddess, her hair poking out at odd angles, her stomach definitely popping now, and a satisfied smile on her face.
Jesse was a bit of a wild card in this book. I wasn’t sure how he’d fit into the harem since he didn’t have any background history with Tally, but he really won me over. The first time we see them together is when he beats her at a street race and, being the stand-up guy he is, gives her the winnings because she’s pregnant. She tries to refuse the charity, but from there, their dynamic starts to shift. They end up living next door to each other, and Jesse steps up, taking care of her and supporting her through a business proposal. It’s through all this close proximity that they start to bond and become friends. They’re around each other all the time, so it’s only natural they’d start developing feelings. One of the main issues for Jesse is that he doesn’t want to come between his best friend, who’s also interested in Tally. Friendship is super important to him, and he really values his friends’ opinions. He’s committed to being respectful of both his friendship and his relationship with Tally. What I loved about this book was the open communication among everyone. They all talked things through, which was crucial in a polyamorous setup. Jesse’s openness and willingness to share Tally with Hayes was impressive. And when Rocco came into the mix, Jesse was just as open to it, even though he wasn’t sure how things would work with a third person. Jesse’s character is just so wholesome. He becomes a stay-at-home dad and really embraces the family-oriented role. It’s clear he’s protective and loving, and he worships Tally.His willingness to put aside his own feelings for the sake of the group dynamic really stood out. Overall, Jesse’s an amazing addition to the story—loving, protective, and incredibly supportive.
[Rocco]
“She was fussing. I think she wanted to get out and see the world,” he said placatingly. “You seemed to be in the zone, and she didn’t seem unhappy with my presence. I should have asked for permission.”
“It’s fine. Thank you for holding her.
Rocco’s introduction was a bit of a rollercoaster. He came across as this egotistical Formula One driver with a reputation for being self-centered and having a bad media image. But, wow, was he different around Tally and the guys. He was such a sweetheart and genuinely caring, especially with Bobbi-June. His Italian charm really shone through, and it was impossible not to have a soft spot for him. He turned out to be an amazing dad figure and a huge support system. When Tally needed to win the custody battle, Rocco stepped up without hesitation. He agreed to marry her to help with the legal situation, which was a big deal. It’s clear he was already interested in Tally, but he thought he didn’t stand a chance with Hayes and Jesse in the picture. The marriage arrangement ended up being a brilliant twist, adding a new layer to their polyamorous setup. What I really appreciated was how smoothly the dynamics worked out. The group relationship felt natural, like a close-knit circle of friends who just happened to love each other. Rocco’s role in the group was a perfect fit, and his genuine support and love for Tally and her daughter made him an integral part of the story.
So, the book left me with a bunch of questions and open threads. Like, I’m curious about Jesse’s mom and her reaction to him being in a polyamorous relationship. It would’ve been interesting to see more of how she deals with that, and Rocco’s family, especially his sisters, also seemed like they could have added another layer to the story. Despite these lingering questions, I feel pretty satisfied with how things wrapped up. Tally’s journey feels like it’s just beginning, which is a comforting thought. She’s finally in a place where she can focus on her career and get back into driving, despite the setback of being blacklisted because of that wealthy, privileged guy. The book had its rushed moments, especially with the arrest and the spontaneous accident where she and Hayes almost died, but honestly, it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. The story was engaging from start to finish, and I loved the characters. Even though there were areas that could have been fleshed out more, I wouldn’t change a thing. The book delivered exactly what I hoped for, and I’m content with how it ended, leaving me excited about what comes next for Tally and the crew.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: OVERALL*.☽ .*:☆ﾟ. ───
I’d definitely recommend this book if you’re dipping your toes into reverse harems. It’s an easy, quick read with a solid plot, and there’s something really warm and fluffy about it. It’s got all the elements I love: family dynamics, motorsport excitement, and a pregnancy subplot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2024
This was such a great read! Its got everything - the main things are:
👩🏭 bada$$ FMC (she is a NASCAR driver)
💁🏼♂️💁🏻♂️💁♂️ Why Choose (slow burn … but not TOO slow!)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ the spice be SPICING
🌎 Connections to other stand alone books by Grace McGinty (love a good cameo!!)
Tally is a sassy, confident professional race car driver, and is thriving in the male dominated sport until a tragedy throws her career - and her life - off course.
Retreating to the one place she has a friend she pins her hopes on winning one last race - what happens next is a fabulous story with all the elements we love - hot, conflicted love interests, multiple potential connections, and of course some curve balls to keep us guessing!
Loved every moment if this book, and loved guest appearances from some fan faves (Poet and Charlie - IYKYN), and references from my fave movie Talledaga Nights (the ballad of Ricky Bobby)
Thanks for yet another book I couldn't put down!
👩🏭 bada$$ FMC (she is a NASCAR driver)
💁🏼♂️💁🏻♂️💁♂️ Why Choose (slow burn … but not TOO slow!)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ the spice be SPICING
🌎 Connections to other stand alone books by Grace McGinty (love a good cameo!!)
Tally is a sassy, confident professional race car driver, and is thriving in the male dominated sport until a tragedy throws her career - and her life - off course.
Retreating to the one place she has a friend she pins her hopes on winning one last race - what happens next is a fabulous story with all the elements we love - hot, conflicted love interests, multiple potential connections, and of course some curve balls to keep us guessing!
Loved every moment if this book, and loved guest appearances from some fan faves (Poet and Charlie - IYKYN), and references from my fave movie Talledaga Nights (the ballad of Ricky Bobby)
Thanks for yet another book I couldn't put down!
May 5, 2024
Beautiful story
This was just a feel good story, which is my favorite kind. Our fmc (Tally) is down on her luck, through no fault of her own. By happenstance she encounters someone from her past, and meets his best friend as well. The steps along the way to them becoming a family are so sweet and tender. I wasn't ready for the story to end and honestly would have liked to have seen more time with Rocco in the mix as he was a later addition to the relationship, but overall it was just a highly enjoyable read. Definitely recommend.
This was just a feel good story, which is my favorite kind. Our fmc (Tally) is down on her luck, through no fault of her own. By happenstance she encounters someone from her past, and meets his best friend as well. The steps along the way to them becoming a family are so sweet and tender. I wasn't ready for the story to end and honestly would have liked to have seen more time with Rocco in the mix as he was a later addition to the relationship, but overall it was just a highly enjoyable read. Definitely recommend.
May 2, 2024
Grace has done it again! She gave us a very strong heroine who was trying to make her way in a male dominated sport and she did it without making the heroine overly obnoxious. I love everything I have ever read by Grace. She has this way of just sucking you into the story and you don’t want to put the book down. That is what she did with this story, and I know she will continue to do that with future stories. I loved being back in this world and seeing some of our favorite characters from other books that Grace has written. The premise of this book was perfect and I love how it was connected to eight seconds to fly.🩵🩵🩵🩵
May 30, 2025
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spicy content 🌶🌶🌶/5
This book is an exciting and fast-paced romance that brings the thrill of NASCAR and high-octane racing to this story and I loved it. As a fan of reverse harems, this book checked a lot of the boxes I usually look for, and then added a twist that made it even more fun: it wasn’t just the guys doing the racing.
One of the standout elements for me was the inclusion of a female racer. It was refreshing to see women holding their own on the track, bringing strength and skill to a world that's often portrayed as male-dominated. That added layer gave the story more depth and made the characters feel more dynamic and empowering for me.
Of course, the romance was a big draw, and I loved the chemistry between the characters. The reverse harem setup delivered plenty of swoon-worthy moments and emotional entanglements, which I always enjoy.
That said, I found myself wishing for a bit more development overall sadly. The pacing felt rushed at times, and I would’ve liked to see certain story lines or relationships stretched out and explored with more depth.
This book has such an engaging premise, it had the potential to be even more immersive if it had taken a little more time to build tension and flesh out the characters’ arcs.
Still, I did find that this book was an enjoyable, adrenaline-fueled read that combined romance and racing in a fun, empowering way. If you’re into fast cars, fierce women, and steamy romance with a reverse harem twist, this book is worth a spin around the track.
Spicy content 🌶🌶🌶/5
This book is an exciting and fast-paced romance that brings the thrill of NASCAR and high-octane racing to this story and I loved it. As a fan of reverse harems, this book checked a lot of the boxes I usually look for, and then added a twist that made it even more fun: it wasn’t just the guys doing the racing.
One of the standout elements for me was the inclusion of a female racer. It was refreshing to see women holding their own on the track, bringing strength and skill to a world that's often portrayed as male-dominated. That added layer gave the story more depth and made the characters feel more dynamic and empowering for me.
Of course, the romance was a big draw, and I loved the chemistry between the characters. The reverse harem setup delivered plenty of swoon-worthy moments and emotional entanglements, which I always enjoy.
That said, I found myself wishing for a bit more development overall sadly. The pacing felt rushed at times, and I would’ve liked to see certain story lines or relationships stretched out and explored with more depth.
This book has such an engaging premise, it had the potential to be even more immersive if it had taken a little more time to build tension and flesh out the characters’ arcs.
Still, I did find that this book was an enjoyable, adrenaline-fueled read that combined romance and racing in a fun, empowering way. If you’re into fast cars, fierce women, and steamy romance with a reverse harem twist, this book is worth a spin around the track.
April 21, 2024
Girl racer in a boys world. Tally our FMC is navigating her way through the NASCAR world who are less than happy with women in the sport. Struck by freak accident that sees her ripped away from the world she knew. Blacklisted but the love of driving is there forever.
One night under the lights of street racing her world is forever changed. With life changing spanner in place will her life ever see her drive again. Will her bad luck continue or will Lady Luck pan out. Can she find find love, with not one but three people? A fantastic story of love, growth, friendship, partnership, commitment and romance.
Get your car in gear and be ready to ease off the clutch because this is a wild ride! You won’t want to miss out on this tyre burning romance.
I totally loved this!!!!!
So many tropes in one, normally I’d be like huh what but it worked!
Was an absolute pleasure to arc read this. I adored it.
Thanks to Books and B!tches for arc copy these are my totally honest and awesome opinions.
One night under the lights of street racing her world is forever changed. With life changing spanner in place will her life ever see her drive again. Will her bad luck continue or will Lady Luck pan out. Can she find find love, with not one but three people? A fantastic story of love, growth, friendship, partnership, commitment and romance.
Get your car in gear and be ready to ease off the clutch because this is a wild ride! You won’t want to miss out on this tyre burning romance.
I totally loved this!!!!!
So many tropes in one, normally I’d be like huh what but it worked!
Was an absolute pleasure to arc read this. I adored it.
Thanks to Books and B!tches for arc copy these are my totally honest and awesome opinions.
April 27, 2024
I love this not-series this author has created. It's been fun to randomly pick up one of her books and be surprised with characters I liked from other books making appearances.
Very sweet romance that builds (sometimes fairly quickly) and gives you the awwwws big time. I also loved seeing the FMC climb her way back into fulfilling her dreams after they were cruelly taken away from her. Ultra devoted and supportive MMcs who are also finding themselves. Really glad I saw this today and decided to spend my morning reading it.
Very sweet romance that builds (sometimes fairly quickly) and gives you the awwwws big time. I also loved seeing the FMC climb her way back into fulfilling her dreams after they were cruelly taken away from her. Ultra devoted and supportive MMcs who are also finding themselves. Really glad I saw this today and decided to spend my morning reading it.
August 2, 2024
Loved it
A RH in the world of racing cars? I totally dived into it and read it in a day. The characters were nice and likeable, even the bad boy who turned to be a big sweet daddy ( I totally swooned when he called Bobby "bambolina"🥰). The storyline flowed nicely, not too much angst or painful twist turns. A good book! 👏🏻👏🏻I recommend it!
A RH in the world of racing cars? I totally dived into it and read it in a day. The characters were nice and likeable, even the bad boy who turned to be a big sweet daddy ( I totally swooned when he called Bobby "bambolina"🥰). The storyline flowed nicely, not too much angst or painful twist turns. A good book! 👏🏻👏🏻I recommend it!
April 16, 2024
OMFG, why did you make me cry Grace!!!
If you want FMMM, friends to lovers, thrilling driving, secret baby, work mates to lovers this book has it all. Kept me gripped from the very beginning right to the end.
Grace has done it again with a book well written that I just didn’t want to put down.
If you want FMMM, friends to lovers, thrilling driving, secret baby, work mates to lovers this book has it all. Kept me gripped from the very beginning right to the end.
Grace has done it again with a book well written that I just didn’t want to put down.
May 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
❤️❤️❤️/5
🌶🌶🌶/5
I did really enjoy reading this book. This author is really talented and knows how to pull a read into a book. There was a lot going on but not too much where I got lost but enough where I didn't get bored.
Pros:
All four MC were great, and there was nothing I would change.
The plot sucked me right in and didn't leave me hanging. (I do wish to know if she ever won the last race or what they did in the future)
There is only one con..
I do wish the author spent more time building up the relationships with the FMC. To me, it went by really fast, and then they were dating. That also goes for the spicy scenes as well.
I did enjoy this book and would recommend it!
❤️❤️❤️/5
🌶🌶🌶/5
I did really enjoy reading this book. This author is really talented and knows how to pull a read into a book. There was a lot going on but not too much where I got lost but enough where I didn't get bored.
Pros:
All four MC were great, and there was nothing I would change.
The plot sucked me right in and didn't leave me hanging. (I do wish to know if she ever won the last race or what they did in the future)
There is only one con..
I do wish the author spent more time building up the relationships with the FMC. To me, it went by really fast, and then they were dating. That also goes for the spicy scenes as well.
I did enjoy this book and would recommend it!
May 23, 2024
Wow! I really like this author. This was fun and interesting. A female NASCAR driver -similar to her 8 second to fly bull rider FMC. She is against all odds breaking barriers in a man's sport. Badass. Twists and turns so good! 🥰🏁🚘💯🔥👶
May 3, 2024
I know absolutely nothing about auto racing, so this was a little over my head, but the romance was sweet the men in Tally's were so lovely. ❤
September 30, 2024
Love adore amazing
December 18, 2024
Tally, his name was Buck. He couldn’t have been THAT great.
May 25, 2025
2.5⭐️
August 3, 2025
Just wow!
This is the first 5 star review I’ve given in a while but it’s 100% deserving!
**SPOILERS**
Tally Palmer is an up and coming F1 racer. She has racing in her blood and veins and life is just getting started for her. She’s signed to the company her boyfriend Brick Wilttot’s father owns, and although she gets a bit of flack about that she doesn’t pay the news much attention especially since people pretty much love her and Brick together. He’s the “golden boy” for F1 and she’s the up and coming golden girl. Life is good…until it’s not. A devastating accident ends all her dreams. Her boyfriend Brick is killed, she finds out she’s pregnant and her boyfriend’s dad stricken with grief fires her and blacklists her from the sport. Everything that could go wrong seems to be going wrong. Desperate, Tally goes to an illegal street match to win some cash. She’s pregnant and waiting tables and needs a nest egg for the baby she’s having. While she’s there she reconnects with an old friend Hayes and Hayes best friend Jesse (who is racing against her). She loses but just by a little, because what she “picks up” is much better than a win!
Hayes has always crushed on Tally Palmer but she was dating Brick and they were a good “team.” He let his unrequited love go and just tried to push his feelings aside. But fate brings Tally back to him. When Jesse wins the race he gives his winnings to Tally, Tally eventually confronts them about it and Jesse pulls out a remarkable “move.” He tells Tally about the house he plans to flip and asks Tally to restore and flip it with him as his business partner. Jesse says he’s “looking out for Hayes’ girl and this is a way for Hayes to keep her close. Not to look a gift horse in its mouth Hayes is happy with the arrangement. Tally and Hayes begin a relationship but it’s soon clear that Jesse likes her too. So naturally the three of them fall into a polyamorous relationship (this book does not include mm, and I actually liked that a lot. A little mm is ok in my opinion, but not at the same of the FMC. McGinty does an excellent job at showing a straight heterosexual relationship between three people). When Hayes gets a job in the pit of a NASCAR team he’s overjoyed, even moreso when the owner invites and then hires Tally to do SIMS. The company and team is well known AND family friendly so Tally can bring the baby to work. Everything seems to be going well until Buck Willtot Bricks grieving but totally insane father decides he wants custody of Bobbi-June, Tally’s daughter. Buck is very wealthy and Tally is a single mother with a very dangerous job, so there is a good chance he could win custody of Bobbi-June. In steps Rocco, one of the most famous drivers in the world. He has been trying to get a green card so he can race in America and his boss Anthony (who has always been in Tally’s corner) devises a plan. Marry Tally. Rocco will get his green card and Tally will be married AND have access to Rocco’s considerable resources (he’s uber rich, famous, and “stable”). Tally talks to her partners and after a bit they all decide that for the meantime this is a good plan. Tally and Rocco get married, and Tally, Bobbi-June, Hayes and Jesse move into Rocco’s palatial estate. It’s not long after though that Rocco realizes he’s wildly attracted to Tally and adores Bobbi-June. He doesn’t want to step on Hayes and Jesse’s toes though so until he gets the “green light” so to speak he doesn’t make a move on her. Eventually Tally falls into a relationship with Rocco adding to her “harem.” Life seems complete. Anthony hires Tally as his reserve driver, the custody battle although difficult goes in her favor, and FINALLY it seems as if Tally will get her HEA, even if it is a bit unconventional. Sadly Buck isn’t finished. He hires someone to kill Tally and Rocco, causing a car crash and nearly succeeding. Happily everyone is okay, but Rocco is sidelined for 12weeks and needs PT soooooo guess who drives in Rocco’s place, that’s right, Tally. Now Tally really does have her HEA!!
**THOUGHTS**
This was a great F1, NASCAR reverse harem. The characters were well developed and likable. The relationships were beautifully crafted so they felt “organic” and natural (no rushing them together for the sake of the story etc) and the book had enough drama, and angst to make is exciting and eye-popping. I really loved Tally and her guys. Each guy brought a different dynamic to the relationship but they all worked so well together to make her happy and complete. I loved that there was no mm in this book because honestly I’m getting tired of EVERY reverse harem out there these days pushing mm and non-binary characters. It’s ok to have a little mm but frankly traditional RH wasn’t created as a platform for mm, trans and non-binary characters, it was created as a REVERSE to the traditional harem idea of one man with multiple WIVES or partners. It was created to showcase awesome women who had the power to withstand a relationship with multiple men who worshipped her and ONLY her. They could become friends and love each other in a brotherly fashion, but the sexual side was supposed to be reserved for the FMC. I feel as if too many RH’s these days are FORCING the mm, trans and non-binary “agenda” putting them into the story in a completely fabricated way that often detracts from the overall plot arc and FMC. Often the female main character suffers in substance, time, and development when the men in the harem are either involved with one another or become involved with each other. There are some good books and authors out there who create RH’s with plausible and organic mm, trans, and non-binary relationships, but they are are few and far between these days as it seems more and more authors feel PUSHED to include these elements instead of actually loving and wanting to write these characters in a believable way. Omegaverse is a little different as there are male omegas who need either male or female alphas to survive. But in contemporary RH there isn’t that biological need, and too many authors incorporate the mm, trans and non-binary aspect at the detriment to the overall story, and development. Grace McGinty hit a home run in this book. It’s a face paced, believable story with strong fleshed out characters who grow into their relationships in an organic fashion that makes SENSE. It also stays true to the traditional RH leaving Tally to be loved and worshipped by three deserving MMC’s who love her ultimately and love each other as BROTHERS not lovers. It’s a wonderful read that has hit all the markers for a sports based RH. Well deserving the 5 star rating from me!
This is the first 5 star review I’ve given in a while but it’s 100% deserving!
**SPOILERS**
Tally Palmer is an up and coming F1 racer. She has racing in her blood and veins and life is just getting started for her. She’s signed to the company her boyfriend Brick Wilttot’s father owns, and although she gets a bit of flack about that she doesn’t pay the news much attention especially since people pretty much love her and Brick together. He’s the “golden boy” for F1 and she’s the up and coming golden girl. Life is good…until it’s not. A devastating accident ends all her dreams. Her boyfriend Brick is killed, she finds out she’s pregnant and her boyfriend’s dad stricken with grief fires her and blacklists her from the sport. Everything that could go wrong seems to be going wrong. Desperate, Tally goes to an illegal street match to win some cash. She’s pregnant and waiting tables and needs a nest egg for the baby she’s having. While she’s there she reconnects with an old friend Hayes and Hayes best friend Jesse (who is racing against her). She loses but just by a little, because what she “picks up” is much better than a win!
Hayes has always crushed on Tally Palmer but she was dating Brick and they were a good “team.” He let his unrequited love go and just tried to push his feelings aside. But fate brings Tally back to him. When Jesse wins the race he gives his winnings to Tally, Tally eventually confronts them about it and Jesse pulls out a remarkable “move.” He tells Tally about the house he plans to flip and asks Tally to restore and flip it with him as his business partner. Jesse says he’s “looking out for Hayes’ girl and this is a way for Hayes to keep her close. Not to look a gift horse in its mouth Hayes is happy with the arrangement. Tally and Hayes begin a relationship but it’s soon clear that Jesse likes her too. So naturally the three of them fall into a polyamorous relationship (this book does not include mm, and I actually liked that a lot. A little mm is ok in my opinion, but not at the same of the FMC. McGinty does an excellent job at showing a straight heterosexual relationship between three people). When Hayes gets a job in the pit of a NASCAR team he’s overjoyed, even moreso when the owner invites and then hires Tally to do SIMS. The company and team is well known AND family friendly so Tally can bring the baby to work. Everything seems to be going well until Buck Willtot Bricks grieving but totally insane father decides he wants custody of Bobbi-June, Tally’s daughter. Buck is very wealthy and Tally is a single mother with a very dangerous job, so there is a good chance he could win custody of Bobbi-June. In steps Rocco, one of the most famous drivers in the world. He has been trying to get a green card so he can race in America and his boss Anthony (who has always been in Tally’s corner) devises a plan. Marry Tally. Rocco will get his green card and Tally will be married AND have access to Rocco’s considerable resources (he’s uber rich, famous, and “stable”). Tally talks to her partners and after a bit they all decide that for the meantime this is a good plan. Tally and Rocco get married, and Tally, Bobbi-June, Hayes and Jesse move into Rocco’s palatial estate. It’s not long after though that Rocco realizes he’s wildly attracted to Tally and adores Bobbi-June. He doesn’t want to step on Hayes and Jesse’s toes though so until he gets the “green light” so to speak he doesn’t make a move on her. Eventually Tally falls into a relationship with Rocco adding to her “harem.” Life seems complete. Anthony hires Tally as his reserve driver, the custody battle although difficult goes in her favor, and FINALLY it seems as if Tally will get her HEA, even if it is a bit unconventional. Sadly Buck isn’t finished. He hires someone to kill Tally and Rocco, causing a car crash and nearly succeeding. Happily everyone is okay, but Rocco is sidelined for 12weeks and needs PT soooooo guess who drives in Rocco’s place, that’s right, Tally. Now Tally really does have her HEA!!
**THOUGHTS**
This was a great F1, NASCAR reverse harem. The characters were well developed and likable. The relationships were beautifully crafted so they felt “organic” and natural (no rushing them together for the sake of the story etc) and the book had enough drama, and angst to make is exciting and eye-popping. I really loved Tally and her guys. Each guy brought a different dynamic to the relationship but they all worked so well together to make her happy and complete. I loved that there was no mm in this book because honestly I’m getting tired of EVERY reverse harem out there these days pushing mm and non-binary characters. It’s ok to have a little mm but frankly traditional RH wasn’t created as a platform for mm, trans and non-binary characters, it was created as a REVERSE to the traditional harem idea of one man with multiple WIVES or partners. It was created to showcase awesome women who had the power to withstand a relationship with multiple men who worshipped her and ONLY her. They could become friends and love each other in a brotherly fashion, but the sexual side was supposed to be reserved for the FMC. I feel as if too many RH’s these days are FORCING the mm, trans and non-binary “agenda” putting them into the story in a completely fabricated way that often detracts from the overall plot arc and FMC. Often the female main character suffers in substance, time, and development when the men in the harem are either involved with one another or become involved with each other. There are some good books and authors out there who create RH’s with plausible and organic mm, trans, and non-binary relationships, but they are are few and far between these days as it seems more and more authors feel PUSHED to include these elements instead of actually loving and wanting to write these characters in a believable way. Omegaverse is a little different as there are male omegas who need either male or female alphas to survive. But in contemporary RH there isn’t that biological need, and too many authors incorporate the mm, trans and non-binary aspect at the detriment to the overall story, and development. Grace McGinty hit a home run in this book. It’s a face paced, believable story with strong fleshed out characters who grow into their relationships in an organic fashion that makes SENSE. It also stays true to the traditional RH leaving Tally to be loved and worshipped by three deserving MMC’s who love her ultimately and love each other as BROTHERS not lovers. It’s a wonderful read that has hit all the markers for a sports based RH. Well deserving the 5 star rating from me!
May 28, 2024
Loved this story!!!
I absolutely loved this story. One thing i really enjoy about Grace's books is how she always connects them with characters. In this one she dropped in a few mentions and even a scene with some of the characters from The Daymakers which i was so excited about.
This while story was really good and in true Grace fashion, the characters were all loveable and it was impossible to pick a favorite. Each one had their own unique personality. I enjoyed the bind that they all created and shared as the story progressed.
One thing i woukd be interested in is knowing if Tally would ever let the babies bio grandma have a relationshiop with her in the future. Especially since the bio grandpa is out of the picture now. But ither than that i loved this and will be reading it again.
As someone who hates pregnancy in anything other than the epilogue, the fact that i loved this proves just why Grace is such a talented and great storyteller. She made me love a troupe that i hate. Soni stand by what i always say aboht her books. I will read and love anything she writes, even if its tropes that i avoid like the plague.
I absolutely loved this story. One thing i really enjoy about Grace's books is how she always connects them with characters. In this one she dropped in a few mentions and even a scene with some of the characters from The Daymakers which i was so excited about.
This while story was really good and in true Grace fashion, the characters were all loveable and it was impossible to pick a favorite. Each one had their own unique personality. I enjoyed the bind that they all created and shared as the story progressed.
One thing i woukd be interested in is knowing if Tally would ever let the babies bio grandma have a relationshiop with her in the future. Especially since the bio grandpa is out of the picture now. But ither than that i loved this and will be reading it again.
As someone who hates pregnancy in anything other than the epilogue, the fact that i loved this proves just why Grace is such a talented and great storyteller. She made me love a troupe that i hate. Soni stand by what i always say aboht her books. I will read and love anything she writes, even if its tropes that i avoid like the plague.
October 4, 2024
This book felt like Grace wanted to make a racing book, but also make a really sweet found family book and also make a forced proximity/fake marriage
And then she was like why not do all three
I’m not saying it’s bad but I am saying it a lot and every time that I think I know where the book is going to go it has a minor curveball
Where the hitting he’s dick and I hate him and I really don’t like that his ending was not satisfying compared to the amount of shit that he put her through
And then she was like why not do all three
I’m not saying it’s bad but I am saying it a lot and every time that I think I know where the book is going to go it has a minor curveball
Where the hitting he’s dick and I hate him and I really don’t like that his ending was not satisfying compared to the amount of shit that he put her through
dnf
June 18, 2024Dnf 50%
The thruple seemed fairly organic. A bit rushed for my tastes, but it made sense. I get the feeling that there's going to be another male added. Maybe the author can pull it off. But I like my RHs to make sense and I cannot see how the 3rd guy can be added. It's just not his personality.
These types of books can be over the top with the men all revolving around the MFC. But I like mine to have a bit more realism.
I just lost interest.
Others may totally enjoy it.
The thruple seemed fairly organic. A bit rushed for my tastes, but it made sense. I get the feeling that there's going to be another male added. Maybe the author can pull it off. But I like my RHs to make sense and I cannot see how the 3rd guy can be added. It's just not his personality.
These types of books can be over the top with the men all revolving around the MFC. But I like mine to have a bit more realism.
I just lost interest.
Others may totally enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2024
5 -⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Can I take you order?"
I'll have a threesome with two handsome guys, who already take care of me better than any of my exes every have. And a side of fries. Thank you.
Make My Heart Race is an adult contemporary why choose motorsports romance focusing around Tally Palmer, a NASCAR driving is was living it all...until it all falls apart. Six months later she is desperately in need of cash as she has an upcoming due date that means she needs a nest egg STAT. When she decided to participate in some illegal street racing she never imagines it would put her in the paths Hayes, an old coworker and crush who leads her to his best friend, Jesse. Tally is seeing a new lifeline that is putting on the path to her dream again...until a speedbump hits that threatens this new life. Tally must decide if she can accept three men in her life that will give her everything...if only she's willing to take the risk.
This book was an utter delight. It's fast, incredibly sweet, and I ate it up!
Tally is a strong character willing to take on so much. I admired she determination and her empathy to keep going despite everything going wrong. She flourishes under love and to see how much she grows as a result was everything.
Hayes was a mechanic for the Nascar team Tally worked for and he always held a torch for her. I loved how honest and open he was with her as he knew her circumstances and was happy just to be a part of her life. His willingness to dive into caring for a pregnant woman and her upcoming child had me giddy.
Jesse is the best friend of Hayes and he's a dabble...of contract work, finance investments, animal charity and street racing. His easy go with the flow vibes meant he slotted so well into Tally and Hayes' dynamic.
Then, there is Rocco - the devilish racer who is so much more. I don't want to spoil much but the way he slid into this dynamic later on was effortless and I loved the reactions of other characters to it.
This book is a 5 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy pepper as this is a why choose romance with multiple partner scenes. This spice starts around the 30% mark and continues throughout. I felt the dynamic with each guy is fresh and different so the spice was never boring. The multiple partner scenes were such fun as these men are focused so much on Tally.
"I was f*****. Head over heels, absolutely f*****."
The story itself is light and easy. I enjoyed how much time we got to settle with the characters and truly see them before the tension of the conflict rises. I enjoyed the side characters who were so supportive and exploring the world of motorsports was fun for me, despite having little to no experience. I felt this was a book I could just throw myself in and really just sit with it. There's family drama, east eggs from different books, LGBTQ rep, workplace fun, and so much banter. I was just giddy reading this. The ending is a perfect HEA for this story.
Overall, Grace Mcginty continues to create these sweet romance with a pinch of edge that I cannot get enough of! I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Grace for the arc!
"Can I take you order?"
I'll have a threesome with two handsome guys, who already take care of me better than any of my exes every have. And a side of fries. Thank you.
Make My Heart Race is an adult contemporary why choose motorsports romance focusing around Tally Palmer, a NASCAR driving is was living it all...until it all falls apart. Six months later she is desperately in need of cash as she has an upcoming due date that means she needs a nest egg STAT. When she decided to participate in some illegal street racing she never imagines it would put her in the paths Hayes, an old coworker and crush who leads her to his best friend, Jesse. Tally is seeing a new lifeline that is putting on the path to her dream again...until a speedbump hits that threatens this new life. Tally must decide if she can accept three men in her life that will give her everything...if only she's willing to take the risk.
This book was an utter delight. It's fast, incredibly sweet, and I ate it up!
Tally is a strong character willing to take on so much. I admired she determination and her empathy to keep going despite everything going wrong. She flourishes under love and to see how much she grows as a result was everything.
Hayes was a mechanic for the Nascar team Tally worked for and he always held a torch for her. I loved how honest and open he was with her as he knew her circumstances and was happy just to be a part of her life. His willingness to dive into caring for a pregnant woman and her upcoming child had me giddy.
Jesse is the best friend of Hayes and he's a dabble...of contract work, finance investments, animal charity and street racing. His easy go with the flow vibes meant he slotted so well into Tally and Hayes' dynamic.
Then, there is Rocco - the devilish racer who is so much more. I don't want to spoil much but the way he slid into this dynamic later on was effortless and I loved the reactions of other characters to it.
This book is a 5 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy pepper as this is a why choose romance with multiple partner scenes. This spice starts around the 30% mark and continues throughout. I felt the dynamic with each guy is fresh and different so the spice was never boring. The multiple partner scenes were such fun as these men are focused so much on Tally.
"I was f*****. Head over heels, absolutely f*****."
The story itself is light and easy. I enjoyed how much time we got to settle with the characters and truly see them before the tension of the conflict rises. I enjoyed the side characters who were so supportive and exploring the world of motorsports was fun for me, despite having little to no experience. I felt this was a book I could just throw myself in and really just sit with it. There's family drama, east eggs from different books, LGBTQ rep, workplace fun, and so much banter. I was just giddy reading this. The ending is a perfect HEA for this story.
Overall, Grace Mcginty continues to create these sweet romance with a pinch of edge that I cannot get enough of! I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Grace for the arc!
May 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
3.5 stars but rounded to four. I’m a fan of this author’s writing and especially when she writes about women dominating in male sports. However this book left a lot to be desired.
The beginning was emotional and I actually cried a bit, but that was the only emotionally gripping part in this whole book. Nothing else caused any sort of deep feelings.
The relationship with Tally and her harem didn’t feel fully fleshed out. It was all VERY rushed. There was a ton of telling without any showing.
Hayes has been pining for Tally for a while but we don’t actually feel it. Jesse was an awesome character but he felt more like a background harem member solely there to keep the baby while we read more about the rest of the harem. And Rocco was a nice addition but he came in so much later that it felt entirely too rushed. This story should have been longer so the characters had more time to connect and draw us in.
The massive drama was wrapped up in neat little bow before we had a chance to really acknowledge what was even happening.
The ending was garbage. It literally just ends. We don’t know how she did in the race which is really frustrating because this entire story is about her being a talented racer and it being her only dream, yet nowhere in the book does she win one or really do anything. The first race in the beginning tragedy happens so that understandable, the next race is an illegal one because she’s desperate for money but she gets beat right at the finish line in a sneak attack, and the last race at the end comes to an end right when she’s told it’s go time. It would have been acceptable if we had an epilogue in the future and she became a famous number one driver and we see her dreams finally come true.
The spice was okay. We only get ONE scene where Jesse actually gets to have full on sex with her. The rest of the time it’s just BJ’s. There’s not a lot of spicy scenes and when we do get one they are pretty boring and very short with little description to them. This is a huge pet peeve of mine with RH books.
Definitely not a re-read for me. I had to push myself to not DNF. 8 seconds by this author was an awesome story with a real look at a woman living her dreams and making a name for herself in a male dominated industry and the harem was fully fleshed out. I kinda want to read the Daymakers story but there’s an even bigger harem there and I don’t think this author would have done a harem that size justice if a simple four person harem was an issue.
🌶️🌶️.5/5
3.5 stars but rounded to four. I’m a fan of this author’s writing and especially when she writes about women dominating in male sports. However this book left a lot to be desired.
The beginning was emotional and I actually cried a bit, but that was the only emotionally gripping part in this whole book. Nothing else caused any sort of deep feelings.
The relationship with Tally and her harem didn’t feel fully fleshed out. It was all VERY rushed. There was a ton of telling without any showing.
Hayes has been pining for Tally for a while but we don’t actually feel it. Jesse was an awesome character but he felt more like a background harem member solely there to keep the baby while we read more about the rest of the harem. And Rocco was a nice addition but he came in so much later that it felt entirely too rushed. This story should have been longer so the characters had more time to connect and draw us in.
The massive drama was wrapped up in neat little bow before we had a chance to really acknowledge what was even happening.
The ending was garbage. It literally just ends. We don’t know how she did in the race which is really frustrating because this entire story is about her being a talented racer and it being her only dream, yet nowhere in the book does she win one or really do anything. The first race in the beginning tragedy happens so that understandable, the next race is an illegal one because she’s desperate for money but she gets beat right at the finish line in a sneak attack, and the last race at the end comes to an end right when she’s told it’s go time. It would have been acceptable if we had an epilogue in the future and she became a famous number one driver and we see her dreams finally come true.
The spice was okay. We only get ONE scene where Jesse actually gets to have full on sex with her. The rest of the time it’s just BJ’s. There’s not a lot of spicy scenes and when we do get one they are pretty boring and very short with little description to them. This is a huge pet peeve of mine with RH books.
Definitely not a re-read for me. I had to push myself to not DNF. 8 seconds by this author was an awesome story with a real look at a woman living her dreams and making a name for herself in a male dominated industry and the harem was fully fleshed out. I kinda want to read the Daymakers story but there’s an even bigger harem there and I don’t think this author would have done a harem that size justice if a simple four person harem was an issue.
July 8, 2024
I ATE THIS BOOK DF UPP!
MLS, WHO LOVE EVERY INCHH OF THE FL!?💕✅️
ONE ML WHOSE A BADBOY IS NOW A HOUSE-HUSBAND!?😫😫✅️
____
What I love about this book is the character growth! Every single main character are their only individual. They don't need anyone to complete them, so when you add a woman who life crashed but she still took it headstrong, and you mix that with 2 MLS who are willing to do anything for her! Ohhh,
it's like a sweet taste!
The 3rd ML came a little unexpected, tho. I thought this was going to be a Menage, but for some reason, he happened to fit right in!
___
There were moments I cried because the love was just so strong I could feel it through the book! They are eachothers found family! When Tally didn't think she had support and confronted her best friend about her baby, my heart!!!😭😭
And speaking about her best friend Willy. I do have a question! He has a male partner named Collin, and it was mentioned many times that the FL sees Willy as a brother, and he has always been protective of her since her father died, and scared most guys away from her. So when he offered to marry her, to save her from having the baby get taken away. Even the FL was shocked and said it was weird.
I feel as though there's something unexplained. Even the guys questions if Willy might have a desire for Tally early in the book even though he's with his partner chile...
I still love him!💕 Maybe that just shows how deep he cares for Tally?
___
Moving on the spice was so-so in the beginning. The Christmas 3-some was good, though! I thought there was gonna be unexpected m/m for a second. Because the way Rocco (3rd ML) was so shook on how primal and sensual Hayes was to the FL and how erotic the whole situation was, I mean u can't help but think if Rocco had a bi-awakening for a sec. He even thought Jesse came on him and was shook even more, but NO, it was actually the FLs milk😭 The men are honestly secured in their masculinity.
They are only for the FL and feel no attraction for another. They call themselves 'BROfriends'! Love that for them!🥰
___
This is a fluffy book with a second chance troupe! I might get a physical copy!
1v3 (small harem)
Childcare
Unexpected pregnancy
Amazing MLS😇
Tear-jerker (good kind! Not the angst one)😭
Found Family👨👩👧
Standalone
No M/M🙌🏾
Not Dark Romance
Reverse Harem/Why choose?
MLS, WHO LOVE EVERY INCHH OF THE FL!?💕✅️
ONE ML WHOSE A BADBOY IS NOW A HOUSE-HUSBAND!?😫😫✅️
____
What I love about this book is the character growth! Every single main character are their only individual. They don't need anyone to complete them, so when you add a woman who life crashed but she still took it headstrong, and you mix that with 2 MLS who are willing to do anything for her! Ohhh,
it's like a sweet taste!
The 3rd ML came a little unexpected, tho. I thought this was going to be a Menage, but for some reason, he happened to fit right in!
___
There were moments I cried because the love was just so strong I could feel it through the book! They are eachothers found family! When Tally didn't think she had support and confronted her best friend about her baby, my heart!!!😭😭
And speaking about her best friend Willy. I do have a question! He has a male partner named Collin, and it was mentioned many times that the FL sees Willy as a brother, and he has always been protective of her since her father died, and scared most guys away from her. So when he offered to marry her, to save her from having the baby get taken away. Even the FL was shocked and said it was weird.
I feel as though there's something unexplained. Even the guys questions if Willy might have a desire for Tally early in the book even though he's with his partner chile...
I still love him!💕 Maybe that just shows how deep he cares for Tally?
___
Moving on the spice was so-so in the beginning. The Christmas 3-some was good, though! I thought there was gonna be unexpected m/m for a second. Because the way Rocco (3rd ML) was so shook on how primal and sensual Hayes was to the FL and how erotic the whole situation was, I mean u can't help but think if Rocco had a bi-awakening for a sec. He even thought Jesse came on him and was shook even more, but NO, it was actually the FLs milk😭 The men are honestly secured in their masculinity.
They are only for the FL and feel no attraction for another. They call themselves 'BROfriends'! Love that for them!🥰
___
This is a fluffy book with a second chance troupe! I might get a physical copy!
1v3 (small harem)
Childcare
Unexpected pregnancy
Amazing MLS😇
Tear-jerker (good kind! Not the angst one)😭
Found Family👨👩👧
Standalone
No M/M🙌🏾
Not Dark Romance
Reverse Harem/Why choose?
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