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AstroSpace League #1
Hyperspeed
Kai Mercer was made to race and born to win. A three-time galactic champion, Kai dominates every track he hits. But after years of standing on the podium, the thrill is fading, and the trophies have lost their shine. All he wants is one thing: a challenge fierce enough to reignite his fire.
But they say you should be careful what you wish for . . .
Rev Arathiel is a rookie with stars in his eyes and a mission heavier than any trophy. An endangered alien whose skin glows like a supernova, Rev has clawed his way up from illegal street races to the prestigious AstroSpace League. Racing isn’t just a game to him—it’s the key to a better future for his people.
When Rev starts disrupting Kai’s perfect season, their rivalry ignites more than just speed and skill. With the championship hanging in the balance, neither expects the boundaries between competition and connection to blur . . . or their hearts to race for more than just the finish line.
Hyperspeed is an MM sci-fi racing romance with rivals to lovers, opposites attract, and an ego bigger than Jupiter. Perfect for fans of Formula 1, this is the first instalment in a series of interconnected standalones. Expect high-speed races, adorable first times, and some creative uses of prehensile tails.
But they say you should be careful what you wish for . . .
Rev Arathiel is a rookie with stars in his eyes and a mission heavier than any trophy. An endangered alien whose skin glows like a supernova, Rev has clawed his way up from illegal street races to the prestigious AstroSpace League. Racing isn’t just a game to him—it’s the key to a better future for his people.
When Rev starts disrupting Kai’s perfect season, their rivalry ignites more than just speed and skill. With the championship hanging in the balance, neither expects the boundaries between competition and connection to blur . . . or their hearts to race for more than just the finish line.
Hyperspeed is an MM sci-fi racing romance with rivals to lovers, opposites attract, and an ego bigger than Jupiter. Perfect for fans of Formula 1, this is the first instalment in a series of interconnected standalones. Expect high-speed races, adorable first times, and some creative uses of prehensile tails.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2025
21 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
Lily James
1 book23 followersLily James is a UK-based author with a soft spot for beautiful, heart-stealing queer romance. A lover of swoony stories, she’s especially fond of tales where complicated men fall hopelessly for each other. She lives in the West Midlands with her partner and their chubby dog, Winston—who definitely has main character energy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
August 19, 2025
I cannot believe this is a debut book! It was perfect... I already knew I wanted book two before I even got past 35% of this one. Never did I think that I needed a series about the equivalent of F1 in space with humans, aliens, and multiple planets with completely different terrains, but I'm totally obsessed and I just want more!
I loved Kai and his cocky, fun personality so much - I kept picturing him as Lando Norris 😂🥰 Rev was his perfect partner and their personalities fit together so well, even when they're at odds. The Iskari sounded so beautiful too with the way they light up!
The rivals to lovers was done so well. The tension building was great; when they finally gave in to each other I was doing a little happy dance; and when they admit their feelings I was absolutely swooning! The sex scenes were genuinely fun to read and I'm pretty sure there wasn't a single instance of anyone being told they were 'so tight' thank the fucking stars 😂 I rarely read every single sex scene in a book because they're usually so repetitive but that's definitely not the case with this book. I was obsessed with these two and didn't skip a single scene. Their humour and snark was perfect too, I just couldn't get enough! Even the more emotional part to their story had me gripped and I didn't want to put this book down.
Rev's family also had me laughing with their reactions to his races and his rivalry, and I loved his grandma so much 😂 Her threats were entertaining!
There were so many subplots in the book but they didn't feel overwhelming or make the story feel bloated either, it was such a good balance and the story world managed to feel really full and interesting even though we're constantly planet hopping.
I cannot wait to read book two!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: Subgenres
I loved Kai and his cocky, fun personality so much - I kept picturing him as Lando Norris 😂🥰 Rev was his perfect partner and their personalities fit together so well, even when they're at odds. The Iskari sounded so beautiful too with the way they light up!
The rivals to lovers was done so well. The tension building was great; when they finally gave in to each other I was doing a little happy dance; and when they admit their feelings I was absolutely swooning! The sex scenes were genuinely fun to read and I'm pretty sure there wasn't a single instance of anyone being told they were 'so tight' thank the fucking stars 😂 I rarely read every single sex scene in a book because they're usually so repetitive but that's definitely not the case with this book. I was obsessed with these two and didn't skip a single scene. Their humour and snark was perfect too, I just couldn't get enough! Even the more emotional part to their story had me gripped and I didn't want to put this book down.
Rev's family also had me laughing with their reactions to his races and his rivalry, and I loved his grandma so much 😂 Her threats were entertaining!
There were so many subplots in the book but they didn't feel overwhelming or make the story feel bloated either, it was such a good balance and the story world managed to feel really full and interesting even though we're constantly planet hopping.
I cannot wait to read book two!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: Subgenres
August 29, 2025
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
TROPES:
🏁 Human x Alien
🏁 Rivals to lovers
🏁 Sci-fi
🏁 Racing
🏁 Grumpy/sunshine
🏁 Champion vs rookie
A Formula 1 romance, but set in space.
Hyperspeed was super fun and sweet, full of high-speed races, banter, teasing turning into flirting, a grumpy but actually kind of shy alien and the golden boy champion that falls for him.
I loved the slow build-up of Kai and Rev’s relationship, how they went from kind of hating each other, to a friendly rivalry, to soulmates.
I especially loved Rev’s mood-markings, that would change color depending on his feelings.
Isn’t that so fun?
The spice was also both sweet & sexy, lots of passion but also tender first times. Sadly, there was no tail play {no, I don’t count Rev masturbating with his tail as tail play}, but it was still cute, how it would cling to Kai and wrap around his leg.
I did find Kai’s background a little vague. We know all about Rev and his family and his species, but not that much about Kai.
Other than that, this was an awesome first installment, and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Death of side character (on page)
- Mention of parental abandonment (off page)
- Themes of prejudice against a species
- On page Motorsport crashes
- Injury (on page)
- Top/bottom
- Virgin MC
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Coming hands-free
Four lights . . . Three . . . Two . . . One . . . Lights out. Time to move.
TROPES:
🏁 Human x Alien
🏁 Rivals to lovers
🏁 Sci-fi
🏁 Racing
🏁 Grumpy/sunshine
🏁 Champion vs rookie
A Formula 1 romance, but set in space.
Hyperspeed was super fun and sweet, full of high-speed races, banter, teasing turning into flirting, a grumpy but actually kind of shy alien and the golden boy champion that falls for him.
“It means next time, I’m gonna bury you.” I snatched the scoresheet from his hands, resisting the urge to crumple it and throw it at his forehead. “In your dreams.” He stepped in close, voice low and smug.
“You’ll look so good in my dreams.”
I loved the slow build-up of Kai and Rev’s relationship, how they went from kind of hating each other, to a friendly rivalry, to soulmates.
I especially loved Rev’s mood-markings, that would change color depending on his feelings.
The markings on his face pulsed with a deep red light, and I wondered what they meant. Whether they turned any other colour on the spectrum. Whether the crimson was solely for me.
Isn’t that so fun?
The spice was also both sweet & sexy, lots of passion but also tender first times. Sadly, there was no tail play {no, I don’t count Rev masturbating with his tail as tail play}, but it was still cute, how it would cling to Kai and wrap around his leg.
“Do you want to fall apart for me, little comet?”
I did find Kai’s background a little vague. We know all about Rev and his family and his species, but not that much about Kai.
Other than that, this was an awesome first installment, and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
“Somewhere along the way, you became everything to me, little comet. And I’ll gladly feel the burn if I get to hold you close.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Death of side character (on page)
- Mention of parental abandonment (off page)
- Themes of prejudice against a species
- On page Motorsport crashes
- Injury (on page)
- Top/bottom
- Virgin MC
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Coming hands-free
August 25, 2025
Lots of potential but the writing really didn’t match up.
Thank you to Lily James and GRR for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I didn’t like this. I recognise that this is a debut and huge congratulations to author for getting it across the line but there was quite a bit left on the table.
WHAT I LIKED
- Chapter titles. We need to make chapter titles cool again! Plain numbers just aren’t doing it for me anymore. This book had an abundance of creative and highly punny chapter titles that made me somewhat excited to guess at the contents.
- Sexual tension and smut. Incredibly hot and very well written. The tension between the Rev and Kai, at least during these scenes, was palpable🥵 The pet names were adorable.
- Prose. It was alright but not inventive and only a handful of sentences stood out to me.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE
- Too much filler. I was generally disinterested with the family dinners and the kids racing initiative but there were plenty of other scenes that didn’t need to be written with as much detail. In fact, this book could’ve been 100-150 pages shorter and much stronger for it.
- World building. By far my biggest gripe with this book. As an avid fantasy reader, I appreciate: i) a world which feels large enough to be real, and ii) being situated by the author. It’s unclear what world we’re on in this (there’s mention of other planets and interplanetary travel) so I assumed earth. I then expected to get at least some information on HOW. How did the astro space league become a thing? How did we crack the code to interplanetary travel? Are these other planets habitable (this is important as humans routinely race on other planets without the need for protective gear). While we’re on the subject, what exactly is the astro space league?? How does it work? This book would’ve felt so much sharper if racing had been a stronger part of the plot and it wouldn’t have taken much — just establish a clear ranking system and a goal the characters are working towards then keep reminding the reader. Alas, that wasn’t the case.
- Species hierarchy. This is related to world building but needs its own section because of how central it is to the plot. Rev, one of the MCs, is of a nearly-extinct species. The main reason he joins the League is to bring awareness to his species’ plight and counter negative stereotypes. So far, so good. Where it starts to fall apart is… everything after this little bit of exposition. What is the hierarchy?? Rev kept saying humans have a better life but we don’t see that at all. In fact, we don’t see Rev’s species being mistreated AT ALL. It’s only ever brought up in conversation and feels very far removed from the rest of the story. Also, what other species exist? How did humans make first contact? Or was it the inverse?? As I said, so much left on the table.
- Characters. Not much to say here except that the MCs acted far too juvenile for my liking.
- Writing. Horrible use of a time skip. Telling us — montage-style, no less — that Rev and Kai’s relationship developed over six weeks instead of SHOWING us was a BIG missed opportunity. Add an engineered 3rd act miscommunication to the mix and I was checked out for the final 1/3. I don’t even recall being introduced to that driver who died (Cas?) and I saw absolutely no reason for the depth of Kai’s anger towards Rev. At least he had to grovel but Rev should’ve demanded more.
Expect
- Rivals to lovers
- Opposites attract
- Grumpy x sunshine
- Protective MC
- First time
- Virgin MC
- Found family
Thank you to Lily James and GRR for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I didn’t like this. I recognise that this is a debut and huge congratulations to author for getting it across the line but there was quite a bit left on the table.
WHAT I LIKED
- Chapter titles. We need to make chapter titles cool again! Plain numbers just aren’t doing it for me anymore. This book had an abundance of creative and highly punny chapter titles that made me somewhat excited to guess at the contents.
- Sexual tension and smut. Incredibly hot and very well written. The tension between the Rev and Kai, at least during these scenes, was palpable🥵 The pet names were adorable.
- Prose. It was alright but not inventive and only a handful of sentences stood out to me.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE
- Too much filler. I was generally disinterested with the family dinners and the kids racing initiative but there were plenty of other scenes that didn’t need to be written with as much detail. In fact, this book could’ve been 100-150 pages shorter and much stronger for it.
- World building. By far my biggest gripe with this book. As an avid fantasy reader, I appreciate: i) a world which feels large enough to be real, and ii) being situated by the author. It’s unclear what world we’re on in this (there’s mention of other planets and interplanetary travel) so I assumed earth. I then expected to get at least some information on HOW. How did the astro space league become a thing? How did we crack the code to interplanetary travel? Are these other planets habitable (this is important as humans routinely race on other planets without the need for protective gear). While we’re on the subject, what exactly is the astro space league?? How does it work? This book would’ve felt so much sharper if racing had been a stronger part of the plot and it wouldn’t have taken much — just establish a clear ranking system and a goal the characters are working towards then keep reminding the reader. Alas, that wasn’t the case.
- Species hierarchy. This is related to world building but needs its own section because of how central it is to the plot. Rev, one of the MCs, is of a nearly-extinct species. The main reason he joins the League is to bring awareness to his species’ plight and counter negative stereotypes. So far, so good. Where it starts to fall apart is… everything after this little bit of exposition. What is the hierarchy?? Rev kept saying humans have a better life but we don’t see that at all. In fact, we don’t see Rev’s species being mistreated AT ALL. It’s only ever brought up in conversation and feels very far removed from the rest of the story. Also, what other species exist? How did humans make first contact? Or was it the inverse?? As I said, so much left on the table.
- Characters. Not much to say here except that the MCs acted far too juvenile for my liking.
- Writing. Horrible use of a time skip. Telling us — montage-style, no less — that Rev and Kai’s relationship developed over six weeks instead of SHOWING us was a BIG missed opportunity. Add an engineered 3rd act miscommunication to the mix and I was checked out for the final 1/3. I don’t even recall being introduced to that driver who died (Cas?) and I saw absolutely no reason for the depth of Kai’s anger towards Rev. At least he had to grovel but Rev should’ve demanded more.
Expect
- Rivals to lovers
- Opposites attract
- Grumpy x sunshine
- Protective MC
- First time
- Virgin MC
- Found family
September 7, 2025
Astro Space league book 1
Trigger Warnings:
Explicit sexual content Death of side character (on page)
Motorsport crashes (on page, MC involved)
Prejudice against certain species (affects MC)
Absent parent and paternal abandonment (off page, childhood)
Alien smut ✅
Rookie vs Pro racer ✅
Enemies to lovers ✅
Feisty grand ma✅
Kai is some sort of alien racer. But a good one , winning lots of championships.
Apparently an Iskari is joining the racing world , as a rookie, but I have no idea why this is a big deal.
Ohhh they are an extremely endangered race.
Rev is the Iskari and seems to dislike Kai at first sight.
Lots of car racing and pit crew, engineers, and racers talking . I keep thinking of Lightning McQueen.
“I seem to remember another rookie who shook things up with their talent,” Ailor continued. “And when others dismissed him because he was new, do you know what he did?” “What?” My teeth sank into my bottom lip, trying to fight the smile pulling at my mouth. I looked up to see them watching me, eyes overflowing with fondness. “He proved everyone wrong, showed them what he was made of.”
Rev and Kai have this whole enemies to lovers banter going on.
‘The back and forth between us, the constant challenge he presented . . . it was infuriating, but it made my pulse quicken.’
There’s a galactic party, some jealousy, some sexual chemistry and a heat charged moment.
Oh wait Kai is a human ? 😅
There’s a race, a big misunderstanding and then Kai kisses Rev. Make out. Sexy times and Orgasms.
Rev has an interview with a journalist but he can’t remember her name so every time her name changes while you’re reading🤣 Lottie, Louise , Lois
That really amused me author 🤣 good one. Bahaha out of all those L names thrown out, her name was Steph
That interview allow Kai’s to learn more about Rev.
Rev takes Kai to the illegal underground raceway to race and that brings them closer.
An events /award dinner and then afterwards Kai and Rev have some sexy times. Kai finds out Rev can carry children and it turns him on. Unlocks a breeding kink .
Rev runs away when Kai is sleeping, afraid and overwhelmed with feelings.
Rev gets into a racing accident and Kai rushes to Rev’s house, where he is recuperating. Kai also gets to meet Rev’s family.
Kai and Rev admit their feelings to each other.
There’s another race but someone ends up dying. Kai is furious at Rev for being reckless and causing Cass’s death. Rev is shaken and crying , trying to tell Kai it wasn’t his fault.
Big sad dramatic breakup 😭
Kai regrets it but Rev is broken hearted and build up his protective walls.
‘Kai had been scared—scared of losing me—and I’d mistaken that fear for rejection. He hadn’t walked away. I had.’
Rev runs over to Kai’s . They make up. They communicate.
Rev took a deep breath and exhaled. “I love you, Kai, and if you’ll have me, I’m yours—fire, flaws, and everything in between.”
“I love you so much, little comet,” I whispered. “If you ever want to run, you can. But I’ll catch you every time, and I promise I’ll always bring you back to me.”
Trigger Warnings:
Explicit sexual content Death of side character (on page)
Motorsport crashes (on page, MC involved)
Prejudice against certain species (affects MC)
Absent parent and paternal abandonment (off page, childhood)
Alien smut ✅
Rookie vs Pro racer ✅
Enemies to lovers ✅
Feisty grand ma✅
Kai is some sort of alien racer. But a good one , winning lots of championships.
Apparently an Iskari is joining the racing world , as a rookie, but I have no idea why this is a big deal.
Ohhh they are an extremely endangered race.
Rev is the Iskari and seems to dislike Kai at first sight.
Lots of car racing and pit crew, engineers, and racers talking . I keep thinking of Lightning McQueen.
“I seem to remember another rookie who shook things up with their talent,” Ailor continued. “And when others dismissed him because he was new, do you know what he did?” “What?” My teeth sank into my bottom lip, trying to fight the smile pulling at my mouth. I looked up to see them watching me, eyes overflowing with fondness. “He proved everyone wrong, showed them what he was made of.”
Rev and Kai have this whole enemies to lovers banter going on.
‘The back and forth between us, the constant challenge he presented . . . it was infuriating, but it made my pulse quicken.’
There’s a galactic party, some jealousy, some sexual chemistry and a heat charged moment.
Oh wait Kai is a human ? 😅
There’s a race, a big misunderstanding and then Kai kisses Rev. Make out. Sexy times and Orgasms.
Rev has an interview with a journalist but he can’t remember her name so every time her name changes while you’re reading🤣 Lottie, Louise , Lois
That really amused me author 🤣 good one. Bahaha out of all those L names thrown out, her name was Steph
That interview allow Kai’s to learn more about Rev.
Rev takes Kai to the illegal underground raceway to race and that brings them closer.
An events /award dinner and then afterwards Kai and Rev have some sexy times. Kai finds out Rev can carry children and it turns him on. Unlocks a breeding kink .
Rev runs away when Kai is sleeping, afraid and overwhelmed with feelings.
Rev gets into a racing accident and Kai rushes to Rev’s house, where he is recuperating. Kai also gets to meet Rev’s family.
Kai and Rev admit their feelings to each other.
There’s another race but someone ends up dying. Kai is furious at Rev for being reckless and causing Cass’s death. Rev is shaken and crying , trying to tell Kai it wasn’t his fault.
Big sad dramatic breakup 😭
Kai regrets it but Rev is broken hearted and build up his protective walls.
‘Kai had been scared—scared of losing me—and I’d mistaken that fear for rejection. He hadn’t walked away. I had.’
Rev runs over to Kai’s . They make up. They communicate.
Rev took a deep breath and exhaled. “I love you, Kai, and if you’ll have me, I’m yours—fire, flaws, and everything in between.”
“I love you so much, little comet,” I whispered. “If you ever want to run, you can. But I’ll catch you every time, and I promise I’ll always bring you back to me.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
This was one of the most unique and creative world buildings I have read in a long time!! Truly, have nothing to compare it to. It was ~ out of this world ~ pun intended!
What a beautiful debut book from Lily James. I laughed and cried, and laugh and cried some more. Had a smile on my face the whole time. And I devoured it within 24 hours.
Rev is an endangered species, an Iskari, and he is working hard as a rookie to bring light to their cause. I felt all the feels when they do a fundraising experience with kids and he meets another Iskari for the first time.
Kai is all sunshine and cocky- enter Rev, the unknown rookie who immediately challenges him. Rev wears his emotions on his skin, literally. And the beauty behind the colors adds to their story.
This has all the found family I love with the other racers. And also blood family with Rev’s amazing mom, dad, and grandma. And the spice was so good. I love a prehensile tail *smirk*
Thank you for this ARC! And just to note, the art for this book is so good, I had no doubts when imagining Rev and Kai!
What a beautiful debut book from Lily James. I laughed and cried, and laugh and cried some more. Had a smile on my face the whole time. And I devoured it within 24 hours.
Rev is an endangered species, an Iskari, and he is working hard as a rookie to bring light to their cause. I felt all the feels when they do a fundraising experience with kids and he meets another Iskari for the first time.
Kai is all sunshine and cocky- enter Rev, the unknown rookie who immediately challenges him. Rev wears his emotions on his skin, literally. And the beauty behind the colors adds to their story.
This has all the found family I love with the other racers. And also blood family with Rev’s amazing mom, dad, and grandma. And the spice was so good. I love a prehensile tail *smirk*
Thank you for this ARC! And just to note, the art for this book is so good, I had no doubts when imagining Rev and Kai!
August 26, 2025
4.5/5
RTC
RTC
August 19, 2025
A Sci-fi romance with Humans, Aliens, Space racing, Grumpy/Sunshine, Rivals to Lovers, Champion x Rookie, Bickering, Emotions, Hurt, Love!
This was a pretty great debut 😍. Lily's Instagram posts had me hyped & I loved this. I savored my #ARC in 15hrs over 2days. Loved Kai, Rev & others!
The world building is wonderful, loved all the space imagery & terms usage 🙌. My space-loving heart felt happy 🥰. It's interesting to see various alien species, human abundance (we do f like rabbits 🤣) & the Iskari's story was heartbreaking 😭. I had a few questions which do get answered as I DM-ed Lily 🙌.
Kai is the 3-times (human) champion of the Astro Space League (like F1 in space). K thrives on fame, is joyful, a bit dramatic, snarky. Is racing still fun, or gotten... a bit dull?
Rev is the (iskari) rookie (with a tail!). Prior underground racer, he's striving for better life for his species. R's quieter, grumpy with sass as weapon, underneath he's sweet & playful 😍. R's cautious of people & a virgin.
These Rivals had tension since their meet-hate 🤣, ego clashes. I liked their bickering as it never got too much. But opposites attract as situations put them in forced proximity 🤭. R's glowing marks & their emotions was fascinating to learn 😍. It was fun seeing'em blossom, flirt, vulnerable... heh Slowburn vibe! The racing competition is a big part of story & It was fun.
There were few angsty scenes, whether it be by fears, insecurities or a tragedy (TW). It hurt 🥺, I'm glad we got grovelling, loved it 🙌. Also that we got to see em banter & save eachother in races 😍. The chemistry builds hotly, it & feels explode 🔥. We didn't get vers on-page but I'm excited to see'em switch in bonus!
Now my questions & their answers if you're curious: (it's mainly about world & Iskaris)
The ending's sweet. I'm so excited to see these characters again. The friends & R's family are so nice & fun 😆. Yay, Jax's book 🤭 is next!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Enjoyed? —> Yup! Great debut ❤️ 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🤭😅😉😳🥴🥺😯😆😍😁😭😬🤣🙌🥰😭😤🔥😍☺️✨
4) Steamy scenes: 2.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst/Slowburn: 3.5/5
Dark: 2/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.8/5
7) Plot arc: (Racing, Banter & Love) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.7/5
This was a pretty great debut 😍. Lily's Instagram posts had me hyped & I loved this. I savored my #ARC in 15hrs over 2days. Loved Kai, Rev & others!
The world building is wonderful, loved all the space imagery & terms usage 🙌. My space-loving heart felt happy 🥰. It's interesting to see various alien species, human abundance (we do f like rabbits 🤣) & the Iskari's story was heartbreaking 😭. I had a few questions which do get answered as I DM-ed Lily 🙌.
Kai is the 3-times (human) champion of the Astro Space League (like F1 in space). K thrives on fame, is joyful, a bit dramatic, snarky. Is racing still fun, or gotten... a bit dull?
Rev is the (iskari) rookie (with a tail!). Prior underground racer, he's striving for better life for his species. R's quieter, grumpy with sass as weapon, underneath he's sweet & playful 😍. R's cautious of people & a virgin.
These Rivals had tension since their meet-hate 🤣, ego clashes. I liked their bickering as it never got too much. But opposites attract as situations put them in forced proximity 🤭. R's glowing marks & their emotions was fascinating to learn 😍. It was fun seeing'em blossom, flirt, vulnerable... heh Slowburn vibe! The racing competition is a big part of story & It was fun.
There were few angsty scenes, whether it be by fears, insecurities or a tragedy (TW). It hurt 🥺, I'm glad we got grovelling, loved it 🙌. Also that we got to see em banter & save eachother in races 😍. The chemistry builds hotly, it & feels explode 🔥. We didn't get vers on-page but I'm excited to see'em switch in bonus!
Now my questions & their answers if you're curious: (it's mainly about world & Iskaris)
The ending's sweet. I'm so excited to see these characters again. The friends & R's family are so nice & fun 😆. Yay, Jax's book 🤭 is next!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Enjoyed? —> Yup! Great debut ❤️ 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🤭😅😉😳🥴🥺😯😆😍😁😭😬🤣🙌🥰😭😤🔥😍☺️✨
4) Steamy scenes: 2.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst/Slowburn: 3.5/5
Dark: 2/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.8/5
7) Plot arc: (Racing, Banter & Love) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.7/5
August 27, 2025
4.5*
Hyperspeed is Lily James’s debut novel and I really enjoyed it! I will admit it took me a little while to get into it and I didn’t connect with the characters right away but one I was about 30%in a was hooked. Kai and Rev get off to a rocky start but after learning more about each other they slowly develop a relationship. I thought Kai and Rev we pretty cute, I loved the tension between them and the little competitions they had outside of racing. The scenes with the kids? Absolutely adorable and probably one of my favourite parts of this book. While this is mostly low angst and smooth sailing there is a bit of danger and drama near the end that maybe could have been avoided? Overall a very good debut that had my emotions all over the place. The side characters in this book were great and I loved them all. I can’t wait to read Dray and Jax’s book next!
Hyperspeed is Lily James’s debut novel and I really enjoyed it! I will admit it took me a little while to get into it and I didn’t connect with the characters right away but one I was about 30%in a was hooked. Kai and Rev get off to a rocky start but after learning more about each other they slowly develop a relationship. I thought Kai and Rev we pretty cute, I loved the tension between them and the little competitions they had outside of racing. The scenes with the kids? Absolutely adorable and probably one of my favourite parts of this book. While this is mostly low angst and smooth sailing there is a bit of danger and drama near the end that maybe could have been avoided? Overall a very good debut that had my emotions all over the place. The side characters in this book were great and I loved them all. I can’t wait to read Dray and Jax’s book next!
August 30, 2025
4.75 stars
This was such an amazing debut for this author. The universe of the Astro Space League is so interesting and vast, and we only get a sliver of it here. Kai and Rev are your typical rivals-to-lovers until they're not. Kai is a bit cocky but well-meaning. Rev appears to be more of a black cat on the outside, but in reality, he is as soft as a teddy bear and just needs patience. Rev is definitely my favorite part of this story. His character is just so interesting and unexpectedly loveable, and his character arc is really well done. It took me a little bit to really get into the story, and I did feel we jumped into this world a little fast without much explanation along the way, so that's the only reason this is a 4.75 and not 5 stars. That said, this was amazing, and I look forward to seeing more from this author in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such an amazing debut for this author. The universe of the Astro Space League is so interesting and vast, and we only get a sliver of it here. Kai and Rev are your typical rivals-to-lovers until they're not. Kai is a bit cocky but well-meaning. Rev appears to be more of a black cat on the outside, but in reality, he is as soft as a teddy bear and just needs patience. Rev is definitely my favorite part of this story. His character is just so interesting and unexpectedly loveable, and his character arc is really well done. It took me a little bit to really get into the story, and I did feel we jumped into this world a little fast without much explanation along the way, so that's the only reason this is a 4.75 and not 5 stars. That said, this was amazing, and I look forward to seeing more from this author in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2025
-Rivals to Lovers
-Car Racing But Make It Space
-Human/Alien
-Black Cat/Golden Retriever
-First Times
The concept and vibe for this book are so incredibly unique and I LOVE Rev so much, he needs to be protected at all costs. I am a sucker for a character who uses a cold facade to cover their insecurities and I also love when they can show who they truly are around their love interest. I’m so impressed that this is a debut for Lily James because the attention to detail and the quality of the story is fantastic. I also really enjoyed all the side characters. It set up so well for the next book and I can’t wait to read it.
Also, side note, I love the cover for this so much. I need it on my shelf ASAP.
Also also, I loved Korvi and I would sell my SOUL for that child.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
-Car Racing But Make It Space
-Human/Alien
-Black Cat/Golden Retriever
-First Times
The concept and vibe for this book are so incredibly unique and I LOVE Rev so much, he needs to be protected at all costs. I am a sucker for a character who uses a cold facade to cover their insecurities and I also love when they can show who they truly are around their love interest. I’m so impressed that this is a debut for Lily James because the attention to detail and the quality of the story is fantastic. I also really enjoyed all the side characters. It set up so well for the next book and I can’t wait to read it.
Also, side note, I love the cover for this so much. I need it on my shelf ASAP.
Also also, I loved Korvi and I would sell my SOUL for that child.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
August 31, 2025
4 purple Stars
⭐
ARC Read: 13/08/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lily James for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 MM Adult Sci-Fi Motorsport Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
Slow Burn
Rivals To Lovers
Grumpy x Sunshine
Formula 1 In Space
Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Forced Proximity
Human x Extinct Alien Race
Possessiveness
Scowling & Bickering As A Love Language
Virgin MC
First Times
Touch-Starved
Whimpering Begging Mess
Locker Room Spice
Breeding Kink
D/S Dynamic
Nipple Play
Rimming
Tail
Natural Lubrication
MPreg Possible
BANTER
Secret Meetings
Pro Champion x Rookie (Pro In Illegal Races)
Colorful Emotions
Cute Nicknames
Stuffed Animals
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Queer Normative World
Caution/Trigger Warnings:
Series: AstroSpace League #1
Story: 5/5
I love this book!
Got me out of my funk.
Cover: 4/5
Format: Ebook/ARC
POV: Dual - 1st Person
Plot: 5/5
Main Characters:
5/5 - Revvak Arathiel: 24yo, he/him, nickname: Rev, pro in illegal races, rookie in pro races.
4/5 - Kai Mercer: 28yo, he/him, professional formola 1 racer.
Side Characters: 5/5
Humor: Low Focus
Angst: Medium High Focus
Steam Level: 4,5/5
Romance: Medium Focus
Cheating? No
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN? HEA
Favorite character? Rev
Enjoyment: 5/5
AstroSpace League Series:
1.Hyperspeed
- 4,0 stars
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
Click Here For: My Instagram Review|My StoryGraph Review|
Where To Find My Reviews: GOODREADS|STORYGRAPH|BOOKBUB|
My Socials: LINKTR.EE|INSTAGRAM|BLUESKY|TIKTOK|FACEBOOK|TUMBLR|AO3|
ARC Read: 13/08/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Lily James for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 MM Adult Sci-Fi Motorsport Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
Slow Burn
Rivals To Lovers
Grumpy x Sunshine
Formula 1 In Space
Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Forced Proximity
Human x Extinct Alien Race
Possessiveness
Scowling & Bickering As A Love Language
Virgin MC
First Times
Touch-Starved
Whimpering Begging Mess
Locker Room Spice
Breeding Kink
D/S Dynamic
Nipple Play
Rimming
Tail
Natural Lubrication
MPreg Possible
BANTER
Secret Meetings
Pro Champion x Rookie (Pro In Illegal Races)
Colorful Emotions
Cute Nicknames
Stuffed Animals
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Queer Normative World
Caution/Trigger Warnings:
Series: AstroSpace League #1
Story: 5/5
I love this book!
Got me out of my funk.
Cover: 4/5
Format: Ebook/ARC
POV: Dual - 1st Person
Plot: 5/5
Main Characters:
5/5 - Revvak Arathiel: 24yo, he/him, nickname: Rev, pro in illegal races, rookie in pro races.
4/5 - Kai Mercer: 28yo, he/him, professional formola 1 racer.
Side Characters: 5/5
Humor: Low Focus
Angst: Medium High Focus
Steam Level: 4,5/5
Romance: Medium Focus
Cheating? No
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN? HEA
Favorite character? Rev
Enjoyment: 5/5
AstroSpace League Series:
1.
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
Click Here For: My Instagram Review|My StoryGraph Review|
Where To Find My Reviews: GOODREADS|STORYGRAPH|BOOKBUB|
My Socials: LINKTR.EE|INSTAGRAM|BLUESKY|TIKTOK|FACEBOOK|TUMBLR|AO3|
August 10, 2025
4⭐️
Hyperspeed is the debut novel for author Lily James! In an ambitious and interesting futuristic space setting, we follow two racers as they navigate their careers, and their rivalry-turned-romance!
Kai is a 28 year old human and long-time champion of the racing league. He’s confident, handsome, and talented. Nothing shakes Kai, until a new rookie shows up and shakes things up. Rev is reserved and standoffish, and a daredevil behind the wheel. With a background in underground racing, and as a member of an endangered alien species, Rev makes a big impression on everyone in the league.
Kai and Rev immediately fall into a rivalry that makes for an excellent catalyst for the tension and excitement surrounding their relationship. As they slowly start learning about each other, their mutual understanding grows into something sweeter. You’re absolutely going to get a great mix of “I hate you” spicy, and “I love you” spicy.
Rapid fire, here is some content you’ll get:
-rivals to lovers
-basically nascar in space
-funny space-pun names for everyday items
-human/alien
-black cat / golden retriever vibes
-a good mix of tension, spice, racing, and sweet moments
The thing I loved most about this book was REV! Firstly, his alien concept is so cool: he has these glowing stripes that change colour based on his mood. He has a prehensile tail that he wraps around his thigh when he’s anxious 🥺 and he wraps it around Kai’s wrist when he’s needs emotional support 🥺🥺🥺 That made me scream at my kindle, it was so cute. I am an absolute sucker for a vulnerable person who acts tough and cold because they don’t want to get hurt, and Rev is no exception.
In general, I really liked the MCs. Kai and Rev had great chemistry, and I loved their banter. I could tell that the author genuinely loves these characters. ❤️ This is definitely a character-focused plot. For the most part, it was enjoyable, though the third-act break-up did frustrate me in this one.
For a debut novel, this one was good! I think this author has a lot of potential, and would love to see how their writing develops more! I’ll definitely be reading book 2!
Hyperspeed is the debut novel for author Lily James! In an ambitious and interesting futuristic space setting, we follow two racers as they navigate their careers, and their rivalry-turned-romance!
Kai is a 28 year old human and long-time champion of the racing league. He’s confident, handsome, and talented. Nothing shakes Kai, until a new rookie shows up and shakes things up. Rev is reserved and standoffish, and a daredevil behind the wheel. With a background in underground racing, and as a member of an endangered alien species, Rev makes a big impression on everyone in the league.
Kai and Rev immediately fall into a rivalry that makes for an excellent catalyst for the tension and excitement surrounding their relationship. As they slowly start learning about each other, their mutual understanding grows into something sweeter. You’re absolutely going to get a great mix of “I hate you” spicy, and “I love you” spicy.
Rapid fire, here is some content you’ll get:
-rivals to lovers
-basically nascar in space
-funny space-pun names for everyday items
-human/alien
-black cat / golden retriever vibes
-a good mix of tension, spice, racing, and sweet moments
The thing I loved most about this book was REV! Firstly, his alien concept is so cool: he has these glowing stripes that change colour based on his mood. He has a prehensile tail that he wraps around his thigh when he’s anxious 🥺 and he wraps it around Kai’s wrist when he’s needs emotional support 🥺🥺🥺 That made me scream at my kindle, it was so cute. I am an absolute sucker for a vulnerable person who acts tough and cold because they don’t want to get hurt, and Rev is no exception.
In general, I really liked the MCs. Kai and Rev had great chemistry, and I loved their banter. I could tell that the author genuinely loves these characters. ❤️ This is definitely a character-focused plot. For the most part, it was enjoyable, though the third-act break-up did frustrate me in this one.
For a debut novel, this one was good! I think this author has a lot of potential, and would love to see how their writing develops more! I’ll definitely be reading book 2!
August 9, 2025
This was a really fun read and something unique that I haven’t read before - F1 style racing in space! It definitely had Star Wars pod-racing vibes, along with a scorching rivals-to-lovers storyline.
Kai is a multiple-time-champion in the ASL racing league; a high speed, cross galaxy championship where the fastest, boldest drivers win big. He’s getting bored though - no one can match him in skill and speed… until rookie racer Rev, fresh from the underground racing circuit, starts gaining race points and racing times that threaten even Kai’s performances. And Kai can’t possibly let the cocky, ice-cold rookie get away with that.
Rev is an Iskari; a nearly extinct alien race and therefore the first of his kind in the ASL championship. He’s got a lot to prove - he’s always been the odd one out, but here in the ASL he’s looking to raise awareness for the Iskari and be a role model. But he can’t seem to stop his brash and annoying rival Kai from getting under his skin.
But of course; love and hate are two sides of the same coin, and soon the pair’s competitive verbal sparring turns to innuendo and flirting and the romance evolves from there!
I really enjoyed the vibes of the book; all the different tracks and races. One of the reasons it lost a star for me is that I felt like we could have used a little more worldbuilding; the characters jump from race to race with a few events in between (a gala dinner, a kids’ charity event) without any real focus on the planets that they are on. The book is extremely character-focussed and whilst this will absolutely work for some people, I do prefer to know a little more about the world around them.
Kai and Rev’s characters were very sweet - it’s a black cat x golden retriever pairing and whilst this book is billed as a slow burn, I’d disagree! They both are attracted to each other almost instantly and whilst it takes a while for them to actually get physical, there is a lot of flirting and banter early in the book.
Rev is a male character who can get pregnant (but doesn’t in the book) due to his race’s dwindling numbers. I’m not a huge fan of mpreg as a trope but I do understand why the author made this choice about his character… although it did make me slightly uncomfortable as the implication is that Rev will eventually have to have children to carry on his race and I sort of… really hate that for him? But I do understand that’s 100% a me issue and probably won’t bother the majority of readers!!
Overall I did enjoy this book, and I think it’s an excellent debut and I’m excited to see where the author takes her writing next!
Read Hyperspeed for:
✨ F1 style racing in space
✨ Human x Alien
✨ Black cat x golden retriever
✨ Rivals to lovers
✨ Hurt x comfort
✨ Queernormative world
✨ Excellent cast of diverse side characters
Thank you to the author for an ARC! It releases on 29th August ✨
Kai is a multiple-time-champion in the ASL racing league; a high speed, cross galaxy championship where the fastest, boldest drivers win big. He’s getting bored though - no one can match him in skill and speed… until rookie racer Rev, fresh from the underground racing circuit, starts gaining race points and racing times that threaten even Kai’s performances. And Kai can’t possibly let the cocky, ice-cold rookie get away with that.
Rev is an Iskari; a nearly extinct alien race and therefore the first of his kind in the ASL championship. He’s got a lot to prove - he’s always been the odd one out, but here in the ASL he’s looking to raise awareness for the Iskari and be a role model. But he can’t seem to stop his brash and annoying rival Kai from getting under his skin.
But of course; love and hate are two sides of the same coin, and soon the pair’s competitive verbal sparring turns to innuendo and flirting and the romance evolves from there!
I really enjoyed the vibes of the book; all the different tracks and races. One of the reasons it lost a star for me is that I felt like we could have used a little more worldbuilding; the characters jump from race to race with a few events in between (a gala dinner, a kids’ charity event) without any real focus on the planets that they are on. The book is extremely character-focussed and whilst this will absolutely work for some people, I do prefer to know a little more about the world around them.
Kai and Rev’s characters were very sweet - it’s a black cat x golden retriever pairing and whilst this book is billed as a slow burn, I’d disagree! They both are attracted to each other almost instantly and whilst it takes a while for them to actually get physical, there is a lot of flirting and banter early in the book.
Rev is a male character who can get pregnant (but doesn’t in the book) due to his race’s dwindling numbers. I’m not a huge fan of mpreg as a trope but I do understand why the author made this choice about his character… although it did make me slightly uncomfortable as the implication is that Rev will eventually have to have children to carry on his race and I sort of… really hate that for him? But I do understand that’s 100% a me issue and probably won’t bother the majority of readers!!
Overall I did enjoy this book, and I think it’s an excellent debut and I’m excited to see where the author takes her writing next!
Read Hyperspeed for:
✨ F1 style racing in space
✨ Human x Alien
✨ Black cat x golden retriever
✨ Rivals to lovers
✨ Hurt x comfort
✨ Queernormative world
✨ Excellent cast of diverse side characters
Thank you to the author for an ARC! It releases on 29th August ✨
Read
August 28, 2025I received this book as an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
There is definitely an audience out there for this book, but that isn’t me.
At 61% I have to throw in the towel because my biggest ‘NO’ in an MM-book popped up. I don’t read Mpreg, even the possibility of it, like in this book, puts me off entirely. I did read to the end of the chapter and the whole sex scene in that chapter, but I didn’t enjoy it anymore.
And if I’m honest I didn’t much enjoy the rest of the book either.
First the things I did like:
The prose was good. Not outstanding, but easy to read, which is a big plus, especially in sci-fi and fantasy.
I liked the concept a lot. Rivals to lovers, racing, IN SPACE??… That really spoke to me when I decided to try for the ARC. And if it speaks to you too I would still tell you to try this book.
I love the chapter titles. So much more creative than simple numbers.
Although the book doesn’t explain the how and why of many things in the world, I actually appreciated that there was no typical infodump.
The things I didn’t like:
Although there was no infodump, the information on a lot of things was lacking, which at several points makes the story lacking too. I actually wondered ‘why’ on several occasions, while I’m usually not one to think much when it comes to books.
Also, for the life of me, I couldn’t keep the names, the species and the teams apart. It’s nice that an overview was provided at the start of the book but in an e-book that doesn’t always work for me.
Kai gives me red flags and ‘cocky bastard with no redeeming qualities’. I liked him the most when he was being a brat with Jax instead of a bastard to Rev.
If I had to rate it at this point in the book, I probably would have given it 2 or 2.5 stars.
There is definitely an audience out there for this book, but that isn’t me.
At 61% I have to throw in the towel because my biggest ‘NO’ in an MM-book popped up. I don’t read Mpreg, even the possibility of it, like in this book, puts me off entirely. I did read to the end of the chapter and the whole sex scene in that chapter, but I didn’t enjoy it anymore.
And if I’m honest I didn’t much enjoy the rest of the book either.
First the things I did like:
The prose was good. Not outstanding, but easy to read, which is a big plus, especially in sci-fi and fantasy.
I liked the concept a lot. Rivals to lovers, racing, IN SPACE??… That really spoke to me when I decided to try for the ARC. And if it speaks to you too I would still tell you to try this book.
I love the chapter titles. So much more creative than simple numbers.
Although the book doesn’t explain the how and why of many things in the world, I actually appreciated that there was no typical infodump.
The things I didn’t like:
Although there was no infodump, the information on a lot of things was lacking, which at several points makes the story lacking too. I actually wondered ‘why’ on several occasions, while I’m usually not one to think much when it comes to books.
Also, for the life of me, I couldn’t keep the names, the species and the teams apart. It’s nice that an overview was provided at the start of the book but in an e-book that doesn’t always work for me.
Kai gives me red flags and ‘cocky bastard with no redeeming qualities’. I liked him the most when he was being a brat with Jax instead of a bastard to Rev.
If I had to rate it at this point in the book, I probably would have given it 2 or 2.5 stars.
August 25, 2025
I absolutely loved Hyperspeed. This book had me hooked from the very first lap, the racing, the tracks, the adrenaline, the side characters, and most of all, Rev and Kai.
Rev, the grumpy black cat of a rookie, completely stole my heart. I cried, I laughed, and I clung to the edge of my seat through every tense racing scene. On the other side, Kai was the perfect golden retriever balance: cocky, funny, and endlessly excitable. The contrast between their personalities made every interaction magnetic, whether they were bickering, bantering, or quietly falling in love.
The racing scenes were written so vividly that I could picture every track, every turn, and every near miss. The adrenaline rush pulsed off the page, but it was the relationship between Rev and Kai that kept me completely invested. Their chemistry was undeniable, their arguments hilarious, and their affection heartfelt.
This book is fast paced, thrilling, and emotional in all the right ways. If you want a story filled with high octane action and a romance that shines just as brightly, Hyperspeed is absolutely one to add to your TBR.
Rev, the grumpy black cat of a rookie, completely stole my heart. I cried, I laughed, and I clung to the edge of my seat through every tense racing scene. On the other side, Kai was the perfect golden retriever balance: cocky, funny, and endlessly excitable. The contrast between their personalities made every interaction magnetic, whether they were bickering, bantering, or quietly falling in love.
The racing scenes were written so vividly that I could picture every track, every turn, and every near miss. The adrenaline rush pulsed off the page, but it was the relationship between Rev and Kai that kept me completely invested. Their chemistry was undeniable, their arguments hilarious, and their affection heartfelt.
This book is fast paced, thrilling, and emotional in all the right ways. If you want a story filled with high octane action and a romance that shines just as brightly, Hyperspeed is absolutely one to add to your TBR.
August 25, 2025
I'm so excited for y'all to meet Rev and Kai! Their rivals-to-lovers dynamic is just the right mix of sweetness and mischief. Kai is thoughtful despite his cockiness and Rev is a softie behind his stoic mask. Rev's folks were a surprise favorite part of the story, especially his fiery grandma.
I liked that the angst ramps up near the end but never becomes so intense I needed a break. I'm really looking forward to the next book!
I'm grateful for the chance to check out this ARC. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
I liked that the angst ramps up near the end but never becomes so intense I needed a break. I'm really looking forward to the next book!
I'm grateful for the chance to check out this ARC. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
August 10, 2025
4.25
An absolute banger. I loved the racing element to this, it felt detailed enough and fantasy enough to add the fun. the characters were meaty, I felt like we could really get to know them (especially revvy), and the spice was 👌
also, a TAIL! I love a tail. and i loved the lights on revvys skin. ughhhhh
A really good, fun, debut!!!
An absolute banger. I loved the racing element to this, it felt detailed enough and fantasy enough to add the fun. the characters were meaty, I felt like we could really get to know them (especially revvy), and the spice was 👌
also, a TAIL! I love a tail. and i loved the lights on revvys skin. ughhhhh
A really good, fun, debut!!!
August 11, 2025
IT'S SO BEAUTIFUL! I'm forever grateful to have received this ARC, and I can't wait to fully review this once it's out! This is a MUST READ! Do not sleep on the best debut novel ever. Add to your TBR now and grab it on release day!!
August 29, 2025
“Hyperspeed” is everything I wanted from the start. Kai is smug, he loves to win and be the best, and Rev is quickly becoming the rookie who can beat his ass. They’re rivals, they both want to win and prove themselves, Kai as the former champion and Rev as the new guy who has everything to prove. Although I enjoyed Kai, I have to say Rev was more my style. Yes, he wanted to win, he wanted to prove himself, but he was also really vulnerable, and Kai was really harsh on him sometimes.
They are from two different worlds, Rev always having to prove something since his species are endangered, and Kai seems to have it all. Kai has very few moments of vulnerability, because he doesn’t need them. What Kai offers to Rev is something he also does not have, which is companionship. Kai has it all, but he he hasn’t loved anyone the way he loves Rev. Rev intrigues him but also pushes him to keep being Kai. Rev doesn’t change Kai, so much as Kai does not change Rev. They compete, but they don’t need to change, they just show each other how much together they can be more complete. The best version of each other.
Kai allows Rev to build more confidence and have his back. With Kai, Rev is no longer so much alone, and Rev gives Kai a challenge. Kai was getting stuck in a routine where he was always the best, and with Rev, he needed to up his game.
“Hyperspeed” is fun even if you are not a fan of F1, since this is more about Rev and Kai’s story. Their journey. I still loved the different races and settings, but I feel this was more focused on them and not so much on the technical aspect of F1, so if that’s your thing, what the hell are you waiting for? Go read the book! You will laugh, you will feel your heart breaking into pieces, you will blush with those smutty scenes, and the best part is, once you’re finished with the book you can’t wait to come back for more!
They are from two different worlds, Rev always having to prove something since his species are endangered, and Kai seems to have it all. Kai has very few moments of vulnerability, because he doesn’t need them. What Kai offers to Rev is something he also does not have, which is companionship. Kai has it all, but he he hasn’t loved anyone the way he loves Rev. Rev intrigues him but also pushes him to keep being Kai. Rev doesn’t change Kai, so much as Kai does not change Rev. They compete, but they don’t need to change, they just show each other how much together they can be more complete. The best version of each other.
Kai allows Rev to build more confidence and have his back. With Kai, Rev is no longer so much alone, and Rev gives Kai a challenge. Kai was getting stuck in a routine where he was always the best, and with Rev, he needed to up his game.
“Hyperspeed” is fun even if you are not a fan of F1, since this is more about Rev and Kai’s story. Their journey. I still loved the different races and settings, but I feel this was more focused on them and not so much on the technical aspect of F1, so if that’s your thing, what the hell are you waiting for? Go read the book! You will laugh, you will feel your heart breaking into pieces, you will blush with those smutty scenes, and the best part is, once you’re finished with the book you can’t wait to come back for more!
August 26, 2025
“Don’t worry, baby, I’ll have you begging before we’re done.”
“Don’t count on it, starboy.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Three time galactic champion, Kai Mercer, is chasing that fire he used to get when racing, and who better to reignite that flame than rookie, Rev Arathiel.
These rivals are polar opposites, both on and off the track. So when Rev starts disrupting Kai’s perfect season, sparks start to fly.
I was absolutely blown away by this story! The world building was perfection, not too overwhelming but completely unique. I believe this is Lily’s debut novel, and I truly fell in love with her characters, the world she created and the overall story. The side characters have me SO intrigued, I can’t wait to read more 😍
Rev is a baby angel! He maintains a cool, aloof energy to the public but is just soooo babygirl when he’s with Kai 🥹❤️
If you’re a fan of racing, you’ll love this!
If you’re a fan of non-human romance, you’ll love this!
If you love a good breeding kink 👀🥵
This one’s for you!
• Alien x Human
• Formula 1 Racing in Space
• Rivals to Lovers
• Black Cat x Golden Retriever
• Cute Nicknames
• Breeding Kink 🥵
“Don’t count on it, starboy.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Three time galactic champion, Kai Mercer, is chasing that fire he used to get when racing, and who better to reignite that flame than rookie, Rev Arathiel.
These rivals are polar opposites, both on and off the track. So when Rev starts disrupting Kai’s perfect season, sparks start to fly.
I was absolutely blown away by this story! The world building was perfection, not too overwhelming but completely unique. I believe this is Lily’s debut novel, and I truly fell in love with her characters, the world she created and the overall story. The side characters have me SO intrigued, I can’t wait to read more 😍
Rev is a baby angel! He maintains a cool, aloof energy to the public but is just soooo babygirl when he’s with Kai 🥹❤️
If you’re a fan of racing, you’ll love this!
If you’re a fan of non-human romance, you’ll love this!
If you love a good breeding kink 👀🥵
This one’s for you!
• Alien x Human
• Formula 1 Racing in Space
• Rivals to Lovers
• Black Cat x Golden Retriever
• Cute Nicknames
• Breeding Kink 🥵
August 27, 2025
This was so good. The way the F1 was described was gripping. The different tracks and the way each driver especially Kai and Rev drove. The tension between these two and when they finally get together the spice *chefs kiss* Kai had some incredible dirty talk going and to see Rev slowly lower his walls and be vulnerable with Kai made my chest ache. Also Rev and Korvi 😭 they were absolutely precious together and I am lowkey sad we didn’t get any more of Korvi throughout the book. I loved the world Lily built and while I will say the backround world is completely explained in this book I don’t overly mind since sometimes a first book in the series can take up a lot of pages getting you into the world and the characters. I’m looking forward to the next one.
August 10, 2025
F1 in space? Check. MM romance? Check. Need I say more? NEED I SAY MORE?!
"The rookie and I drove side by side for a long time, and it was easy to forget there was anyone besides us in the competition."
Rev's one of the endangered species and now that he's officially in the ASL as a rookie, his advocacy is bringing his people the right they deserved. However, he didn't plan on having a rivalry with the three-time galactic champion, Kai.
Forever thankful for this book and the author for getting me out of the reading slump after 5 days.
I finished this in a day bc ofc I did. I'm so proud.
Okay, where to start? I saw this circulating around my bookstagram and quite frankly, the cover caught my eye and so I had the priviledge of having access to the ARC (Shoutout to the author!), and please note that my reviews are my own.
Now we got that out of the way, time to start.
This book was everything I didn't know I needed. Not a fan of F1 but I love reading about aliens and space and most importantly, MM romance so this book just fits the bill.
Note that I was in a slump while reading this so I was just trying my best to at least reach 30% but boy, I flew through the book in a day. I didn't watch any movie, didn't try any other book or do anything else (it was the weekend, sue me) but my eyes are glued to this book.
The characters are so complex with a lot of layers. Kai's your cocky, overconfident, full-of-life champion you expect to read. As he should, considering he's the champion. He got this wild exterior but beneath that was a lot of expectations to maintain his championship and pressure on his self to still be on top.
Rev, on the otherhand, was very nonchalant, black cat vibes, with super independent tendencies but he's like that because of what he went through when he was a child. He's part of an endangered species and how he was interacted with growing up was basically the blue print on how he held everyone at arm's length.
The romance? Sheer perfection. The banter? Oozing in the pages. The tension? So palpable. It felt like I was witnessing a very private moment between the characters, or maybe that makes me felt like a fly on the wall, but I am here for it.
Granted, it's a bit long for my liking but that's because we are following the whole F1 circuit, so we have a bit of time jumps in between.
I love how the relationship itself was seamless, but at the same time, flawed with lots of obstacles. It felt real and complicated enough that I can see that happening in real life. I did love how the story took us from start to finish with no "dead air" in-between.
Love the side characters and the found family aspect in this book too!
Looking forward to the next book because the glimpses we just saw in this book for the next characters are just incredible. I cannot wait!
"The rookie and I drove side by side for a long time, and it was easy to forget there was anyone besides us in the competition."
Rev's one of the endangered species and now that he's officially in the ASL as a rookie, his advocacy is bringing his people the right they deserved. However, he didn't plan on having a rivalry with the three-time galactic champion, Kai.
Forever thankful for this book and the author for getting me out of the reading slump after 5 days.
I finished this in a day bc ofc I did. I'm so proud.
Okay, where to start? I saw this circulating around my bookstagram and quite frankly, the cover caught my eye and so I had the priviledge of having access to the ARC (Shoutout to the author!), and please note that my reviews are my own.
Now we got that out of the way, time to start.
This book was everything I didn't know I needed. Not a fan of F1 but I love reading about aliens and space and most importantly, MM romance so this book just fits the bill.
Note that I was in a slump while reading this so I was just trying my best to at least reach 30% but boy, I flew through the book in a day. I didn't watch any movie, didn't try any other book or do anything else (it was the weekend, sue me) but my eyes are glued to this book.
The characters are so complex with a lot of layers. Kai's your cocky, overconfident, full-of-life champion you expect to read. As he should, considering he's the champion. He got this wild exterior but beneath that was a lot of expectations to maintain his championship and pressure on his self to still be on top.
Rev, on the otherhand, was very nonchalant, black cat vibes, with super independent tendencies but he's like that because of what he went through when he was a child. He's part of an endangered species and how he was interacted with growing up was basically the blue print on how he held everyone at arm's length.
The romance? Sheer perfection. The banter? Oozing in the pages. The tension? So palpable. It felt like I was witnessing a very private moment between the characters, or maybe that makes me felt like a fly on the wall, but I am here for it.
Granted, it's a bit long for my liking but that's because we are following the whole F1 circuit, so we have a bit of time jumps in between.
I love how the relationship itself was seamless, but at the same time, flawed with lots of obstacles. It felt real and complicated enough that I can see that happening in real life. I did love how the story took us from start to finish with no "dead air" in-between.
Love the side characters and the found family aspect in this book too!
Looking forward to the next book because the glimpses we just saw in this book for the next characters are just incredible. I cannot wait!
August 28, 2025
{Hyperspeed}
Arc review by Jessie Melka
___________•___________
Bravo, what an amazing debut!
Hyperspeed its the first book im a new series by lily James also a debut from lily and i must say Chef kiss to the character building (even though they are a big childish) I mean holy fuck this was so well thoughout I loved it so much and this is just a debut I am truly impressed
F1 in space what can i say, i have no particular interest in racing, but I can say that the book piped my interest for the “sport” I don’t know if it’s a sport, but I’m just gonna say it like that
I was in love with the banter between the MC’s even though they are portrayed as rivals, you could sort of feel the way Kai was immediately consumed by Rev like he was drawn towards him at their first encounter the sexual tension between them was also immaculate so freaking amazing and so hot
My personal opinion is that it was way more focused on the raising then the romance spectrum not to say the book is very heartwarming and filled with some sweet moments but there is a big-time skips that I wish we could’ve gotten a little more info from so we could see the development of Kai and rev’s relationship also the world building kind of confused me and I wasn’t really sure which planet we were on all the time because it seems like we were skipping between a few but I don’t know which is what I would’ve loved to have a bit more inside knowledge on
I rated this book a 4.5 out of 5 in recognition that this is a debut. I think that it’s a very good start and has extremely good potential for the rest of the series and I would recommend this to anyone out there who loves a good sports romance/alien in space and a lot of banter so yeah I check this out if you’re interested
but remember to form your own opinions and not just listen to me
Until next time, my loves…
Rating: 4,5/5
Spice: 2/5
Angst: 2/5
Would I read again: yes
(I received an advance copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily)
🏎️MM Romance
✨Rivals to lovers
🏎️Alien x Human
✨breeding kink
🏎️black cat x golden retriever
✨first times
🏎️Formula 1 in space
___________•___________
Arc review by Jessie Melka
___________•___________
Bravo, what an amazing debut!
Hyperspeed its the first book im a new series by lily James also a debut from lily and i must say Chef kiss to the character building (even though they are a big childish) I mean holy fuck this was so well thoughout I loved it so much and this is just a debut I am truly impressed
F1 in space what can i say, i have no particular interest in racing, but I can say that the book piped my interest for the “sport” I don’t know if it’s a sport, but I’m just gonna say it like that
I was in love with the banter between the MC’s even though they are portrayed as rivals, you could sort of feel the way Kai was immediately consumed by Rev like he was drawn towards him at their first encounter the sexual tension between them was also immaculate so freaking amazing and so hot
My personal opinion is that it was way more focused on the raising then the romance spectrum not to say the book is very heartwarming and filled with some sweet moments but there is a big-time skips that I wish we could’ve gotten a little more info from so we could see the development of Kai and rev’s relationship also the world building kind of confused me and I wasn’t really sure which planet we were on all the time because it seems like we were skipping between a few but I don’t know which is what I would’ve loved to have a bit more inside knowledge on
I rated this book a 4.5 out of 5 in recognition that this is a debut. I think that it’s a very good start and has extremely good potential for the rest of the series and I would recommend this to anyone out there who loves a good sports romance/alien in space and a lot of banter so yeah I check this out if you’re interested
but remember to form your own opinions and not just listen to me
Until next time, my loves…
Rating: 4,5/5
Spice: 2/5
Angst: 2/5
Would I read again: yes
(I received an advance copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily)
🏎️MM Romance
✨Rivals to lovers
🏎️Alien x Human
✨breeding kink
🏎️black cat x golden retriever
✨first times
🏎️Formula 1 in space
___________•___________
August 12, 2025
A cute debut novel from author Lily James. I'm always in awe of people with such imagination that they can come up with new worlds in their head. I don't know anything about land racing, so space racing was just as foreign to me. I really like how they had technology to adapt to each racer and the different race teams had different technology, and even the underground racing had their own gray area racing technology.
The main MCs. I love how bottled up Revvy was about his emotions, but it showed so readily on his skin through the colors that glowed. I think my fav part was when Revvy glowed rainbow, even though he had said it was not something adults did very often anymore.
Although throughout the story, the meanings were explained, I'm not really one to remember as I read. I wished there was a key at the back or beginning to refer to, even though it might take me out of the scene.
The mpreg element to the dying breed was a shock, but I did have a moment of wonder how it was going to go down. Not that I was opposed to Revvy getting pregnant to continue his race, it would seem like it's something that Revvy would want to do later on since he's about his people.
It seemed unbelievable that Revvy would not know that the Governor of International Relations would have a Iskarian husband and Iskarian children.
Kai, he gave off fuckboy vibes, but towards the end, he ended up saying he really wasn't. I was disappointed in him at the third act breakup, when he went for blame. I didn't think he deserves to be forgiven, but his groveling following made up for it a little.
I love the nod to the Good Boy Club. It was major cute.
The spice was very slow, this was a slow burn, but with the racing and their animosity, the slow burn did not seem deliberate, but suited to their relationship, especially since one of the MC is a virgin.
I don't know why but after the awards ceremony, it felt like although their relationship sped up, the story line slowed down. Maybe it's me.
I look forward to book 2 already!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
~* ARC Review Time*~
Enemies to lovers- Pro X Rookie- Space Racing-Feelings are colorful- Both have a rough past- Sonic racing vibes with great track descriptions & scenarios.
Rev & Kai are everything you imagine when the topic of enemies to lovers come up. Not only are they racing competitors, but their whole vibe is riling the other up. which leaves tensions high and attraction higher.
This is a debut book from this author and honestly.... I can't even tell. The whole story is very well rounded and written. It builds individual character tension with past and present clashing together. It also builds up relationships for future books as well (sqee).
The descriptions of the racing tracks, regions, cars and crews were really really good. Listen, I am not a racing girlie... I have no idea what half the stuff in racing is....but the author did a great job explaining the moving parts of the whole career, crew and emotions that come with racing.
The tension between Rev & Kai is soooo thick.... I'm not sure how the other friends and colleagues didn't notice lol. Kai literally has eyes for Rev only throughout the entire book.
Golden Retriever energy? Check
Black Cat being elusive? Check
It comes to the make it or break it moment in the book and both failed each other. As new relationships often do. But they work extremely hard to earn forgiveness, not only for each other but themselves. They take a long while to talk out their problems, let more secrets out and the open communication makes you take a breath of fresh air.
Overall, this book kind of has it all. The underdog falling in love and trying to prove himself and prove his species can do everything everyone else can. The Pro who falls head over heels for an elusive rookie and can't contain himself lol. Lots of side characters and friends + Crew. It gives you all the feels, Heat, Breeding and Safety. It's a book I'll pick up again when I feel like I need to go home for sure.
"Catch me if you can, Starboy."
Enemies to lovers- Pro X Rookie- Space Racing-Feelings are colorful- Both have a rough past- Sonic racing vibes with great track descriptions & scenarios.
Rev & Kai are everything you imagine when the topic of enemies to lovers come up. Not only are they racing competitors, but their whole vibe is riling the other up. which leaves tensions high and attraction higher.
This is a debut book from this author and honestly.... I can't even tell. The whole story is very well rounded and written. It builds individual character tension with past and present clashing together. It also builds up relationships for future books as well (sqee).
The descriptions of the racing tracks, regions, cars and crews were really really good. Listen, I am not a racing girlie... I have no idea what half the stuff in racing is....but the author did a great job explaining the moving parts of the whole career, crew and emotions that come with racing.
The tension between Rev & Kai is soooo thick.... I'm not sure how the other friends and colleagues didn't notice lol. Kai literally has eyes for Rev only throughout the entire book.
Golden Retriever energy? Check
Black Cat being elusive? Check
It comes to the make it or break it moment in the book and both failed each other. As new relationships often do. But they work extremely hard to earn forgiveness, not only for each other but themselves. They take a long while to talk out their problems, let more secrets out and the open communication makes you take a breath of fresh air.
Overall, this book kind of has it all. The underdog falling in love and trying to prove himself and prove his species can do everything everyone else can. The Pro who falls head over heels for an elusive rookie and can't contain himself lol. Lots of side characters and friends + Crew. It gives you all the feels, Heat, Breeding and Safety. It's a book I'll pick up again when I feel like I need to go home for sure.
"Catch me if you can, Starboy."
September 1, 2025
Thank you GRR for the arc!
This story is Lily's debut novel, and I think that's pretty freaking impressive. I'm already wanting more from this universe.
The beginning is a bit slow, and I wouldn't mind if some of the more technical parts were trimmed down, but I was invested after the 25% mark.
After that though? It picked up to the point where I could not put it down!
The banter, the excitement of the racing, the nicknames and jealousy were everything.
I love how Kai was cocky and so sure of what he wanted. What he wanted was Rev, so he was like a man with a single mission in mind.
Rev was so shy, withdrawn, closed off and skittish. Exactly like a stray cat!
He also suffers from terrible anxiety, which just honestly made me like him more bc he is just a vulnerable, sweet guy who never thought he would find love. 🥺
He's scared of the intensity of his feelings for Kai, and unsure if Kai feels the same. Kai is a lot more experienced than him, so he's worried about just being another notch in his bedpost.
Kai is so good at comforting Rev and I've gotta give props to the author for having characters who get anxiety attacks and not have them turn into $ex. Cuddling and comforting is where it's at.
There's also a bit of breeding in this, and it was perfection. I hope there is a wedding and babies in their future.
“I want to be your safe space, rookie. The place you can rest when the shield gets too heavy. To be your quiet haven when the world gets too loud. And I want to see you glare at everyone else, sexy and broody, knowing you save the rare smiles for me. “Somewhere along the way, you became everything to me, little comet. And I’ll gladly feel the burn if I get to hold you close.” 😍😭😭
This story is Lily's debut novel, and I think that's pretty freaking impressive. I'm already wanting more from this universe.
The beginning is a bit slow, and I wouldn't mind if some of the more technical parts were trimmed down, but I was invested after the 25% mark.
After that though? It picked up to the point where I could not put it down!
The banter, the excitement of the racing, the nicknames and jealousy were everything.
I love how Kai was cocky and so sure of what he wanted. What he wanted was Rev, so he was like a man with a single mission in mind.
Rev was so shy, withdrawn, closed off and skittish. Exactly like a stray cat!
He also suffers from terrible anxiety, which just honestly made me like him more bc he is just a vulnerable, sweet guy who never thought he would find love. 🥺
He's scared of the intensity of his feelings for Kai, and unsure if Kai feels the same. Kai is a lot more experienced than him, so he's worried about just being another notch in his bedpost.
Kai is so good at comforting Rev and I've gotta give props to the author for having characters who get anxiety attacks and not have them turn into $ex. Cuddling and comforting is where it's at.
There's also a bit of breeding in this, and it was perfection. I hope there is a wedding and babies in their future.
“I want to be your safe space, rookie. The place you can rest when the shield gets too heavy. To be your quiet haven when the world gets too loud. And I want to see you glare at everyone else, sexy and broody, knowing you save the rare smiles for me. “Somewhere along the way, you became everything to me, little comet. And I’ll gladly feel the burn if I get to hold you close.” 😍😭😭
August 12, 2025
4.5 but it's a debut and I was impressed so rounded up!
This book took me for a ride. There were many times throughout where I was thinking "ugh its gonna be 3 stars" and then a chapter later "omg 5 stars!!".
This book brought out a lot of emotions for me. It had great character depth, great side characters, and just a lot of heart! I'm already looking forward to Jax's book! Rev was the absolute best and I loved him immediately. I'll be honest Kai was not my favorite character and he made me irate at one point (IYKYK) but I liked how they balanced each other out. They had a really good rivals to lovers dynamic.
There were so many cute moments between the MCs, and just as many spicy ones. There's also some high stakes moments with a smattering of hurt/comfort sweetness. The *big dramatic moment* made me feel all the feelings and I was happy with the explanation and resolution.
I do think there could have been a bit more of world/species building since it's literally set in outerspace but how the author did it was easy to follow and understand. No info dumping here folks! There was pretty minimal details on the different species, Rev included. I think for a debut he was created well, but as far as aliens go he was pretty standard. I also think the jump from rivals to lovers was a little sharp, but there were a lot of small intricacies involved that I thought developed really well and made it all come together!
That ending!!!! <33333333 So damn sweet and Kai fully redeemed himself to me.
I always say if a book makes me feel things its a good book and this was a great book!
I recieved an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
This book took me for a ride. There were many times throughout where I was thinking "ugh its gonna be 3 stars" and then a chapter later "omg 5 stars!!".
This book brought out a lot of emotions for me. It had great character depth, great side characters, and just a lot of heart! I'm already looking forward to Jax's book! Rev was the absolute best and I loved him immediately. I'll be honest Kai was not my favorite character and he made me irate at one point (IYKYK) but I liked how they balanced each other out. They had a really good rivals to lovers dynamic.
There were so many cute moments between the MCs, and just as many spicy ones. There's also some high stakes moments with a smattering of hurt/comfort sweetness. The *big dramatic moment* made me feel all the feelings and I was happy with the explanation and resolution.
I do think there could have been a bit more of world/species building since it's literally set in outerspace but how the author did it was easy to follow and understand. No info dumping here folks! There was pretty minimal details on the different species, Rev included. I think for a debut he was created well, but as far as aliens go he was pretty standard. I also think the jump from rivals to lovers was a little sharp, but there were a lot of small intricacies involved that I thought developed really well and made it all come together!
That ending!!!! <33333333 So damn sweet and Kai fully redeemed himself to me.
I always say if a book makes me feel things its a good book and this was a great book!
I recieved an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
August 16, 2025
I read Hyperspeed in one day, without any breaks - guess that already says a lot.
While I'm normally not a fan of any sports-related romance books, as they're too cishet normative for me, Hyperspeed truly is so different. Set in a queernormative world, the struggles are focused on Rev - an endangered alien species that suffers from racism, among more social problems. I loved how these struggles were portrayed and how his desire to prove to the world that the Iskari, his people, were the reason he joined the ASL in the first place.
With colored markings that show his emotions, twitching ears and a prehensive tail, Rev checks all the boxes for our typical black cat character.
While Rev gets all the points for loveable character, Kai's a different story. A lot of the time, I found him obnoxious and too pushy, especially during the party-scene and the big moment™. His reasons to desperately want to win his fourth championship were well-described though, and in the end, he redeemed himself.
Indeed an overbearing Golden Retriever boy. Very clingy, but doesn't quite understand boundaries or "no"
Also loved the connection with their friends, from Rev and his family, to both their teammates and the friendship/mentoring. It was beautiful to get glimpses into these friendships as well, although the focus still was on Rev and Kai; both the banter and rivalry, to the blooming romance.
Overall, Hyperspeed is a wonderful novel, especially for a debut! I'm already excited for the second book following two other characters, both of which we already met in Hyperspeed.
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy but I'm freely leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
While I'm normally not a fan of any sports-related romance books, as they're too cishet normative for me, Hyperspeed truly is so different. Set in a queernormative world, the struggles are focused on Rev - an endangered alien species that suffers from racism, among more social problems. I loved how these struggles were portrayed and how his desire to prove to the world that the Iskari, his people, were the reason he joined the ASL in the first place.
With colored markings that show his emotions, twitching ears and a prehensive tail, Rev checks all the boxes for our typical black cat character.
While Rev gets all the points for loveable character, Kai's a different story. A lot of the time, I found him obnoxious and too pushy, especially during the party-scene and the big moment™. His reasons to desperately want to win his fourth championship were well-described though, and in the end, he redeemed himself.
Indeed an overbearing Golden Retriever boy. Very clingy, but doesn't quite understand boundaries or "no"
Also loved the connection with their friends, from Rev and his family, to both their teammates and the friendship/mentoring. It was beautiful to get glimpses into these friendships as well, although the focus still was on Rev and Kai; both the banter and rivalry, to the blooming romance.
Overall, Hyperspeed is a wonderful novel, especially for a debut! I'm already excited for the second book following two other characters, both of which we already met in Hyperspeed.
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy but I'm freely leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2025
I was very excited to read this once since the concept is more on the unusual side - F1 space racing. A super fun aesthetic with galactic racing tracks that make you feel like you're playing Mario kart in space. I similarly liked Kai and Rev and thought they had a good little mutual annoyance to lovers thing going. They start their relationship with snipes and arguments, Kai deciding he's bothered by rookie Rev's mask of indifference and risky driving. Eventually though, they form a truce which blooms into a sweet romance when Kai realizes he actually just is really attracted to Rev and all his coolness lol
The progression of the relationship felt pretty natural, I enjoyed their dates and Kai's easy transition into realizing Rev isn't all that bad. I also liked how nice Kai is to Rev when Rev shows his uncertainty or shyness. Once they're together there isn't as much harshness in their interactions, even if they do keep up their friendly rivalry.
The writing felt a little clunky at times and the pacing also felt disorienting occasionally. I attribute these to it being a debut and neither took away from my enjoyment of the book. I think in general for a debut this is a strong showing, even if some parts could be a little more refined. A very promising beginning to a series, with very likable side characters and lots of potential for fun plots and tropes.
The progression of the relationship felt pretty natural, I enjoyed their dates and Kai's easy transition into realizing Rev isn't all that bad. I also liked how nice Kai is to Rev when Rev shows his uncertainty or shyness. Once they're together there isn't as much harshness in their interactions, even if they do keep up their friendly rivalry.
The writing felt a little clunky at times and the pacing also felt disorienting occasionally. I attribute these to it being a debut and neither took away from my enjoyment of the book. I think in general for a debut this is a strong showing, even if some parts could be a little more refined. A very promising beginning to a series, with very likable side characters and lots of potential for fun plots and tropes.
August 24, 2025
ARC Review
⭐4.75
Yessssssss. I loved this book! I wasn’t sure how I would feel about 1. car racing (historically known to tolerate it at best, it’s very overstimulating) and 2. aliens - but both worked for me.
First, somehow this was able to trigger a deep fear I apparently have of space??? In a relatively innocuous detail about if you go too far out of track limits, you just start free floating in space, really triggered a fear. I never expected to be laying in my bed with my body going into fight or flight about floating around untethered in space, but here we are...
Second, I loved Rev. The concept of light up skin was very fun and made him feel even more unique. Don’t get me started on his tail, something about it just really worked for me. I almost feel endeared to his tail separate from his actual character. I felt some of his past and the trauma from it (especially towards the end) a little too deeply but in a good way.
I think this was just me and being in a bit of a general life slump, but the beginning took awhile for me to get into. I just couldn’t get myself to sit down and read it. But I really think that’s just a me thing.
To sum up, I loved the book, I loved the characters, and I can’t wait for the next one between two characters that I’m very curious about...
⭐4.75
Yessssssss. I loved this book! I wasn’t sure how I would feel about 1. car racing (historically known to tolerate it at best, it’s very overstimulating) and 2. aliens - but both worked for me.
First, somehow this was able to trigger a deep fear I apparently have of space??? In a relatively innocuous detail about if you go too far out of track limits, you just start free floating in space, really triggered a fear. I never expected to be laying in my bed with my body going into fight or flight about floating around untethered in space, but here we are...
Second, I loved Rev. The concept of light up skin was very fun and made him feel even more unique. Don’t get me started on his tail, something about it just really worked for me. I almost feel endeared to his tail separate from his actual character. I felt some of his past and the trauma from it (especially towards the end) a little too deeply but in a good way.
I think this was just me and being in a bit of a general life slump, but the beginning took awhile for me to get into. I just couldn’t get myself to sit down and read it. But I really think that’s just a me thing.
To sum up, I loved the book, I loved the characters, and I can’t wait for the next one between two characters that I’m very curious about...
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