Phaedra is a math prodigy, working as one of the best race engineers in Formula 1. Her life would be easier without Cosmin, the new driver. The pair start an ‘arrangement’ after the team has to step in and tell them to pull their heads in and eventually their attraction turns to more. But, of course, they have secrets and pasts and things never lie, so will they go for it together, or will it all spin off track?

I enjoyed the friction between the pair and the parts where they work through their ‘stuff’ together. At times though Phaedra was too draining for me. I am a 'black cat' myself, but sometimes she was too much and was a lot of work. She seemed a little too self-centered and prickly, or maybe impulsive, I can’t really put my finger on it. I was sometimes confused about how she could be a ‘Boss’, but then she struggled with her dependence on the men in her life. Although I guess the men in her life had different expectations of her than the ones who worked under her, so that is probably a ‘me thing’.

Cosmin probably isn’t going to be considered book boyfriend material because in the beginning he’s a bit of a douche but honestly, I think he isn’t actually the problem (but that is a whole other thing for me). His 'issues', in my opinion, have a lot to do with environment and being allowed to behave in a particular way, rather than him just being a douche. I think he does genuinely try to be better though, so in terms of character development I think that is done well.

The scene is set well. F1 is a flashy, expensive, fast sport and so the locations and characters are the same. The narration was good on this one. enjoyed the accents, but I think if you aren't familiar with accents and you increased the speed of the audio, then there may be issues, but that is an ear thing with accents, rather than something I would put as a narration problem and I think accents add depth to the characters/brings them to life.

There is more to the story than you initially think. It’s not an easy romance or relationship. The ending gave me the feels and made me happy.

Wow! These narrators made all the difference with me enjoying this book. This is an f1, workplace, forbidden romance, reformed bad boy book that I don’t think I would have enjoyed as much if I had read it instead of listened to it.

The characters both had depth and dimension and the narrators brought them to life in a really beautiful way. I was obsessed with the MMC’s accent and it really made this a fun read.

If you’re a fan of Lauren Asher’s F1 series you should give this a read!

Thank you to Hachette Audio, Forever, and Josie Juniper for an ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to Josie Juniper, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for an audio arc of Double Apex!

I loved this book! I thought the narrators were wonderful and really enjoyed the story line. This was the first book I read involving F1 racing, but I'll definitely be reading more! While there were points I did not enjoy - Phaedra was a bit too violent and biting with her actions/words - I understood the author was trying to convey the pain she was going through. It was great to see Cosmin's character growth throughout the book, too. He really listened to Phaedra's feedback which is a nice change of pace for male characters!

One complaint - the book ended way too fast! I would have loved to see more of the story after the last race, and hear about how the relationship developed, but maybe we'll see that in the next book of the series. I can't wait to read it!

Strap in, because Double Apex is a turbocharged ride of romance and rivalry on the F1 circuit!

This sizzling audio book pairs sharp witted race engineer Phaedra Morgan, a math genius with zero patience for nonsense, against the intense and all-too-charismatic driver Cosmin Ardelean.

Their personalities clash harder than tires on tarmac, but beneath the rivalry is undeniable chemistry. A “secret arrangement” is meant to help the two “bond” (ahem), but sparks quickly ignite beyond the track.

Narrators Jonathan Lake and Mackenzie Cartwright deliver their A-game here, capturing every quip, smirk, and whispered secret.

Lake brings Cosmin’s charm and the hidden weight of his past to life, while Cartwright makes Phaedra’s biting wit and confidence practically glow. Together, their voices make this story come alive, with dialogue and tension that feels perfectly in sync.

Double Apex is a thrilling audio blend of high-stakes competition, red-hot attraction, and just enough secret-keeping to keep things spicy. For anyone who loves fast-paced romance with the thrill of Formula 1, this audiobook is a podium-worthy pick!

3.75⭐
2🌶️
Tropes: reverse grumpy sunshine, formula 1, forbidden love, he falls first, grief and loss, dual POV

So to set the stage, this arc was actually an audiobook for me, and I think that is why I liked it more than I would’ve had I just read the book. I wanted to listen to this based on the cover because it looked so cute, even though I’m not much of a racing fan.

I had issues with both characters, but mainly Phaedra because she was so freaking annoying. I think the author was trying to paint her as this strong FMC boss bitch feminist icon who gives no fucks and takes no shit. But in reality she comes across as an insufferably whiny spoiled brat. The writer alludes to her personality flaws being due to her isolated upbringing and genius level IQ but instead of trying to work through all that the FMC doubles down on her intelligence giving herself a pass to be so obnoxious, like when she shit all over her supposed bestie. Maybe it’s supposed to be feminine rage? But even if that’s the case I really don’t like that trope so blech. I liked Cosmin, but Phaedra is so emotionally and physically abusive to him sometimes, I wish he would’ve stood up to her more. He was so weak and just let her step all over him. Really, they just both need therapy.

However, I’m a sucker for these kind of sappy romances so I’m able to compartmentalize how much I disliked the characters and pushed myself to finish the book. In terms of a romance, it was pretty good despite the MC’s personality flaws, and I was pleased that Phaedra had a slight redemptive arc. There was also a decent amount of depth to the overall plot, and I liked that most of the secondary characters were significantly fleshed out with back stories too. I think the technical aspect of the book is good too- it's well written, the pacing is good etc.

Specifically for the audiobook aspect: This story is dual POV and has two narrators, Jonathan Lake and Mackenzie Cartwright. For the most part I enjoyed the two, but I really dislike it when they read the other character’s lines in a “fake” voice. I know it’s more expensive to have the two narrators in the same room to read dialogue and whatnot so I get it but I think it would’ve been better had Mackenzie not tried to do the accent and deep voice of a Romanian man. And then vice versa for Jonathan. Just read the dialogue in all the same voice. Personally it made it hard sometimes to get the right meaning each MC was trying to convey. That said, I do think listening to the actors added an extra layer of depth and the times I cried at the story I probably wouldn’t have if I’d been reading and not listening.

I’m torn on recommending this story, TBH. Maybe read some other reviews and see if it’s right for you.

I would say this one is a 3.5/5 for me. The reason being twofold. 1.) I listened to this via audiobook curtesy of NetGalley and unfortunately, I think I would have enjoyed it more as a physical read. The voice for Cosmin just did not do it for me. And on the subject of Cosmin we get to my second reason 2.) I did not like him. Some of his actions, especially given his backstory just felt a little…icky to me.

All of that being said I really loved Phae and as always, Juniper’s writing was very good, this just suffers from a personal taste preference on my end because Cosmin just wasn’t it for me and in a romance if you don’t click with the love interest(s) the whole story unravels.

Thank you to Josie Juniper, Hatchett Audio, Forever and Netgalley for an advanced listening copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This book had it all! Workplace romance, race cars and spice with communication! While some may argue that the relationship was "insta-lovey" the author did an incredible job of laying the ground work to show that the characters had a long history of working together and building a professional relationship before the emotional and physical relationship ever became part of the picture.

As a (nearly) 40 year old reader, I loved how much deep communication happened between these characters. You often don't see proper communication in a romance novel but I was happily surprised with this one! This book tackles some heavier topics and they were handled very gracefully and tactfully that gave the readers enough information to the situations while being sensitive to the topics and the readers possible triggers.

I absoultely loved having two seperate narrators for the MMC and FMC! Hearing a male and female voice actor for each character made it much easier to connect to the characters in the book making it more enjoyable overall. I will be looking to reading more books in this series and other books from this author in the future!

When I saw this stunning cover up on NetGalley I requested it so fast. I'm a huge F1 fan and it's been so fun reading romances centered around the sport. I originally tried reading this with my eyes and made it about 35% before I couldn't take it anymore. Decided to try it on audio a couple months later just to see if it was maybe a timing thing or a mood thing. Nope. It wasn't. I still didn't like it. The audio itself is well done and I liked the narrators. It's the story I have an issue with, which I am so bummed about. Immediately these two characters hate each other. cool I'm down with that, I love a good hate to love. But the rate at which these two are suddenly over their shiz and ready to be together is astounding. And that's after she's is being prickly (again, fine with that) and he is borderline too pushy. But here's my thing, I couldn't route for the fmc at all. She was horrible. To him, to her friend, to pretty much everyone. And I wanted to love her because her role in F1 was seriously so cool. But nope. Even with the little bit of character growth she has I still couldn't stand her. And Cosmin was okay, but overall lacked something I can’t quite put my finger on. I did like his character and his journey as a driver but wasn't wowed. I'm bummed this one fell so flat.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the early access.

DNF @ 26%

I am so sad I didn't like this.

I normally like to give characters the benefit of the doubt when it comes to their thoughts and actions but OH MY GOD. This FMC was so insufferable and totally anti woman. Her dialogue was incredibly cringey and I hated the way that she treated the people around her.

I will say that I did enjoy the MMCs narration, but it could not make up for the incredibly unbelievable love story that was occurring between the two.

Honestly the premise was great and could have been such a fantastic read; however, the execution was extremely fumbled.

Thank you Netgalley and Forever Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I was so excited to read this book but I struggled to really get into it. I don't know what it was but it has all the things to make a good enemies to lovers romance story with the Formula 1 twist to it. But in the end I DNF the book.

Thank you to NetGallery and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book started out a little dubious for me, but ended up being very addicting. Not going to lie - having a cover blurb from Abby Jimenez really gave me hope in the story overall and got me really excited to read it.

Read this book if you enjoy:
> Workplace romance (forbidden)
> F1 driver MMC/engineer FMC
> Strong FMC
> Reformed playboy MMC
> Settings around the globe
> Dual POV
> Open door spice

This is my first F1 racing romance - and I really enjoyed that part of the plot line. F1 is fast-paced by nature, and this book definitely delivered a fast-paced storyline. There are some aspects of the story that felt a little choppy as a result, but in the context of the nature of racing and the different races being anchors of the storyline it makes a lot of sense. I struggled a bit with Phaedra being a bit unlikeable for a FMC, but at the same time, being a woman in STEM and in a very male-dominated industry her entire life, I understand where she's coming from and why she would act and behave a certain way.

The chemistry between the two MCs was definitely front and center and the portrayal of Cosmin as a play boy in public, but a teddy bear in private was an interesting facet of his personality that grew on me. Phaedra had a lot going on in her backstory and her personal relationships - watching her work through all of that was well done from the perspective of character growth. I'm also definitely looking forward to book two in the series focused on Klaus and Natalia.

The audio narration of this book was excellent. It got to the point that I didn't want to put it down, mainly because I enjoyed the narrators so much. There are a lot of accents that the narrators brought to life - and I thought they did an amazing job. The narrator for Cosmin's POV was just a delight to listen to and brought an incredible accent to bear in the narration for Cosmin. Overall, very well done and definitely added an additional layer to the experience beyond just reading the physical book (which I read in tandem with the audio for part of the time). Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ALC of this book!

Big thanks to the author, @hachetteaudio, and @netgalley for the free advance listening copy! Here’s my honest review.

Phaedra Morgan is the brilliant lead engineer, and Cosmin Ardelean is the superstar driver for their Formula 1 team. Sparks fly between them—not just because of their clashing egos but also because of a simmering attraction. After the team steps in and demands they resolve their differences, their heated rivalry transforms into a passionate, forbidden romance. As Cosmin grapples with a troubled past and Phaedra faces the weight of her present losses, their love is as turbulent as the F1 world they inhabit.

The book really shines in its portrayal of the high-speed, jet-setting Formula 1 lifestyle, immersing the reader in its adrenaline-fueled world. The latter half of the book, where Phaedra and Cosmin work through their personal challenges, felt particularly strong and emotionally resonant. I also enjoyed the early friction between them; their conflicts were well-developed and added depth to their characters.

However, I struggled to fully connect with them as a couple. At times, Phaedra’s dependence on the approval of the men in her life felt inconsistent with her otherwise authoritative role on the team, which detracted from her strength as a character.

The audiobook was a solid listen, with the narrators doing a great job, especially in capturing Cosmin’s Romanian accent, which added an authentic layer to his character.

I’m not into alpha males that can’t take no for an answer. This made me dislike it from the get go! Seemed very toxic!

What an absolute gem of a book. Josie Juniper reminds us that no matter how smart or successful we are, deep down we deserve to be loved. Fay wrestles with being a genius, navigating messy friendships, loss of hero mentor, and accepting you're worthy of love. Cosmin is at the top of his have, he is adored by women. Cosmin struggles with a difficult past and trying to be literally the best driver in the world. They're attraction is combustible from the beginning. Although Fay and Cosmin have to work hard their HEA is worth the drive

There were some aspects of this that I enjoyed in the beginning, although I thought the main relationship was a bit toxic. I decided to DNF at 45% once it became physically violent.

I was captivated by the thrilling blend of romance and suspense from the very first page. The journey of Khin and Tyler is the ideal fusion of intense emotional connection and heart-pounding excitement. Their chemistry and developing trust create a captivating dynamic as they negotiate the dangerous situation of covering up a murder. Their story gains depth from the complex plot's deft turns and moral quandaries. Every page is delightful because of the exquisite way their relationship develops amidst the peril and secrecy. It was enjoyable to read, and I would highly recommend it.

I couldn't put down Double Apex. I loved the relationship between Phaedra and Alexi. The enemies-to-lovers trope, which is my favorite, was alive and well in this novel. It had a lot of steamy scenes, which were enjoyable. Although Double Apex dealt with heavier matters, I thought Josie Juniper did it with a swift hand not making them a quick plot point that is easily forgotten. The trauma each character faces shapes them, much as it does us IRL. I'm glad to see this won't be the last we see of these characters as it's the first book in an upcoming series.

My first F1 romance and I think I've found a new favourite sub genre to immerse myself in. I adored the protagonists; Phaedra, a STEM feminist, and Cosmin, a playboy (but is he really) with a heart of gold. And getting a peek into the fast paced world of racing was so intriguing.
I must admit, I did a little squeal at one of the many settings being Melbourne, a place I love and which holds much racing nostalgia for me. The frequent travel in this book honestly felt like I was on holiday myself!
A modern day forbidden romance that has thrills that'll get your heart racing. I'm looking forward to the next installment of the Frontrunners series from Josie Juniper.

This book was so good! I haven't read any Formula 1 romance yet and I think this was prefect introduction to the sport. Phaedra being super smart and a race engineer was a great way to show to the ins and out of the back end of the racing world and a little bit more background into the sport. She was such a strong female main character and I really loved her snark and wit and the way she wasn't afraid to hold back or stick up for herself and women in the sport. Cosmin is the younger flashy rookie that is a bigger personality and goes after what he wants. I really enjoyed the narrator's Romanian accent and felt it really portrayed Cosmin's big feelings and passion for Phaedra so so well. The way he talks to her and about her made me want to melt so often and the accent only made it that much better. I throughly enjoyed the snark and banter between the two of them and their chemistry was off the charts!

I absolutely love that F1 has finally started to make its way into literature. This is the second book I’ve been able to find with an F1 driver as one of the main characters and it is superior in my opinion. I enjoyed the characters, pacing and the authors style. Overall it was a fantastic read.