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Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the eArc!

Madge Marin delivered on her debut. Slipstream is set in the F1 realm, where everything is fast and hot. Reading this certainly felt like you were going 200 mph around the track! The plot was fast paced and delivered some fan favorite tropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers, down bad boy. I would recommend this to my f1 loving fans and romance readers alike as Madge found the balance between the two worlds.

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Thanks to Simon & Schuster for the widget. I loved this so much this was such a fun read even if you know nothing about Formula 1 you still feel the thrill of it all thru the pages. Lilah (FMC) is making a document on Formula 1 racing which is something that goes against her and wants to get out but she is not able to so she has to make the best of it. Arthur (MMC) doesnt want the document made but has no choice so they make an agreement and well .........I want to talk about the sex scene in this book because OMGEEEEE the talking was even better than what was happening I was even blushing. I enjoyed Lilah and seeing how she grew thru the book and uggg Arthur was just so patient and gentle with her I loved them both.

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Wow this high-stakes, slow burn romance made me feel like I was in the pit lane of a F1 race teams crew member! I love when a sports romance actually involves the sport the MCM plays, and this was was no exception. It made understanding the world of F1 so easy because you were learning with Lilah. This story also hit on so many important parts bring light to adoption rep, mental health rep, toxic family dynamic, ptsd rep, and pressure of performance in high stake sports. Also the romance was one for the slow burn fans, with a some he falls first mixed in. Really enjoyed it all!

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4.25⭐, 2.25🌶️

So the start of this book had me apprehensive because I wasn't sure how much I would relate/ love Lilah. But she quickly became a character that while I couldn't relate to I sympathized and cheered on. Her friends to lovers/ fake dating relationship with Arthur and their scheming was a fun plot point that I've never read in an F1 romance.

I think I'm learning that a problem with F1 is you need to have the FMC traveling with the MMC for the GP's and there's only so many ways to make that fit. While the book felt a tad similar to others with a social media-esque influence, I liked how unique Lilah was and her profession was different.

Now what I didnt like about this book? WHY IS EVERYONE SO OKAY WITH ALL THESE RED FLAG TOXIC MEN!!!!! Max can go pound sand for all I care cause he and Arthur's family were the WORSTTTTT

💛Fake Dating
❤️Workplace
🏎️F1 Romance
❤️Slow Burn

Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!

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This was my first Formula 1 novel but it won’t be my last! I very much enjoyed this enemies to lovers story. I appreciated that the characters had their own issues to work through, though do note there are some topics that might be difficult for some readers: Panic attacks following trauma, seriously toxic family relationships, issues with managing ADHD among others. I encourage you to look into content warnings before proceeding. The romantic relationship was a bit to insta-love for me, but I enjoyed seeing where the main characters ended up. Overall a wonderful slow burn SPICY novel!

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Lilah, a documentary filmmaker, is thrust into the high-stakes world of Formula 1 when her ex, Max, blindsides her by ending their relationship and taking control of their company. She’s forced to work on a documentary with Arthur Bianco, a charismatic yet troubled F1 driver looking for redemption. What starts as a strategic partnership for revenge and career success soon evolves into a fake relationship that feels all too real. I loved how Lilah’s neurodiversity and Arthur’s hidden vulnerabilities added depth to their characters. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I couldn’t help but root for their growth. This book was a perfect mix of romance, humor, and high-speed drama, definitely a must-read.

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<b><i>“Don’t go,” Arthur says, firm. “Stay with me. Let me show you what good looks like.” I’m shivering, plunged into cold water. “But you said you don’t date.” “I’m dating you.” “No, you aren’t.” “Yes, I am. To me? I am.”</b></i>

ARC Review- I was surprised by this book. I liked the documentarian fmc. It was a different take from different romances that I’ve read. When I was reading it, her ex was a joke. I didn’t understand why she was with him in the beginning, but then after a while, I understood. And when they broke up? Girl, I get why she’s in her villian era. And when she falls in love with Arthur? We love to see it! This is a romance that I can live by. The golden retriever, mmc, needs someone that understands him, and I just love that Max and Lilah found each other.
Why this wasn’t a perfect read for me was that although it was an unexpected yet such a cute and fluffy romance book, I wasn’t all into it. The writing style wasn’t to my liking. I love the mental health rep, but I didn’t like how Lilah lets it control and define her. And I absolutely hated that she kept undermining Arthur with no proof like he would do something and she’s like omg so cute, but [blank]. She was so closed minded, and it was super frustrating. I would like to thank the author and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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I would give this book 3.5 stars, but I'm rounding up to 4 because I think a lot of my issues were from my distracted reading.

Lilah Graywood is a serious documentarian, but when her partner and boyfriend wants to film a documentary on F1 racing, she goes along with it. Then immediately finds that he's been cheating on her with a coworker. Lilah and Arthur, a superstar racer who is down on his luck after a crash, begin a fake dating scheme that will help both of them out. Of course real feelings develop along the way.

I thought this book had beautiful writing. It was a sports romance for a reader that is looking for more depth. The writing reminded me a lot of Emily Henry. The characters were great, fully fleshed out people, who had great banter and chemistry. I loved their slow burn relationship, and I thought the ending was particularly strong. So why did it take me so long to read this book? First, it's May and I have 4 young-ish kids. The distraction level is high. Second, the premise and execution of this fake dating scheme was too complicated. I couldn't really tell what the goal was at times as different pieces got added. Overall, a good book, but it could have used a bit more editing. I would definitely read more from this author because I think the potential is high!

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the e-book in exchange for my honest review.

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*Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review and to Simon Audio for the gifted ALC*

Formula One? More like Formula FUN! This book was an absolute ride from start to finish. There's nothing like a good ole revenge fake dating scheme that gets the blood racing. But especially set against the filming of a documentary, it was so interesting. The metaphors with film, the tantalizing longing between Lilah and Arthur, and the representation of sexuality, neurodivergence, and relationships? This book had it all. I'd love to see a future story about Delaney or Sarah.

The narrator did have some weird accents and pronunciations at times in the audiobook, but it didn't detract from the story for me. Now don't mind me while I go binge watch Drive to Survive while I wait for The Paddock Club to release...

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I thought this was a good book. Loved the F1 setting but the main female character was not my favorite. Overall for me there’s not a lot to say other than I liked it.

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Been in my F1 era since reading the dirty air series, but haven't found another auto racing romance that I loved as much so couldn't wait to dive into this one!

Overall this was a fine one sitting read, a little fake dating a little workplace romance, some international travel and some scandal. BUT. The scandal(s) and adjacent workplace drama felt a little too convoluted and really detracted from the brewing romance. There wasn't a ton of chemistry to root for and I wanted to see more of Lilah and Arthur together to see what was brewing between them. The ending felt rushed for the story, with a few things feeling unresolved but overall the story was okay and I would absolutely pick up another book from this author.



Thank you Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC in exchange for my review!

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Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC!

Rating: 4 stars

This was such a fun debut! It was my first time dipping into the world of Formula 1 romance, and I’ll admit—I knew nothing about F1 going in. Because of that, the first chunk of the book (maybe 30-40%) felt a bit heavy. I was still trying to wrap my head around the setting and the logistics of the arrangement between the characters, so it took me a minute to fully get into the groove. But once I did I couldn’t stop turning the pages.

The slow burn was absolutely worth the wait. Arthur and Lilah had real chemistry, and I loved the way their relationship unfolded. Arthur in particular stole my heart—cool and composed on the outside, but emotionally complex and quietly intense underneath. And behind closed doors... Let’s just say… he’s full of surprises 😏

Lilah was a refreshing protagonist, and while there were moments where her “I’m not like other girls” energy teetered into “pick-me” territory, she was still relatable and endearing. I especially appreciated the neurodivergent rep in this book—seeing a character with ADHD, alongside a thoughtful portrayal of anxiety, was such a win. It made both characters feel all the more human.

The side characters were also a highlight—Delaney and Sarah absolutely deserve their own stories. I’m a sucker for found family and fake dating tropes, and this book delivered both in a satisfying way.

And the love confession toward the end? Perfection. Like, highlight-it-and-reread-later kind of good.

If you’re into sports romance, slow burns, soft but spicy MMCs, and messy, lovable heroines—you’ll want this one on your TBR.

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“For someone so large and fast he’s very calm and very very warm.”

“When you really want something you’re ok with being in second place for awhile. Play your cards right and second place helps you get into first.” (Slipstream logic)❤️❤️❤️

“I don’t even think I loved you to begin with. I’m sorry.”

“You’re worth knowing, just in case no one has said that to you lately.”

“Life doesn’t have to be painful to be meaningful.”

“You don’t exist to fit into HIS life.” (Taken outta context this doesn’t sound like a big quote but is a big one and a good one)

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for my #gifted copy of this audiobook. I loved it.

Lila Greywood is a neurodivergent documentarian working with her bestie, Max. They are set to work on their latest Formula 1 documentary but when she arrives Max (who is also secretly her boyfriend) breaks up with her because there’s been someone else who is actually FUN. I sometimes struggle with how neurodivergent people are portrayed in book almost like the author is checking off a box BUT that isn’t the case with this book. Lila was so totally relatable and I loved her forthright way of connecting. I also loved seeing her growth throughout the story.

I liked how Lila & Arthur came together and had each others back when the entire world seemed to be against them.

Arthur is in need of an image rehab and despite he and Lila not initially being fans of one another he does her a solid so she can save face and keep her job.

Then feelings bubble up and you know how that goes. ❤️🏁

Lila was such a great character and I really enjoyed rooting for her and Arthur. This was just a great story overall and I’m so glad I checked it out.

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This was the perfect season to dive into this book! I’m currently finding my way through the world of Formula 1 with the help of a few longtime fan friends, and I honestly couldn’t have picked a better time to start. The book did not disappoint—it gave me major Drive to Survive vibes (which I also just finished on Netflix), so I was all in from the start.

I absolutely loved both main characters—each of them stood strong on their own, but together they really brought the story to life. Their dynamic was compelling and added so much depth to the overall experience. Such a fun and satisfying read, especially for someone new to F1!

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A must-read for fans of sports romance, this story dives into the high-pressure, fast-paced world of Formula 1 racing. Lilah and Arthur, two individuals carrying emotional scars from their pasts, are unexpectedly thrown together for a summer of racing and documentary filming. What follows is a beautifully written slow-burn romance—tender, vulnerable, and pulsing with just the right amount of adrenaline.
As their fake dating arrangement slowly shifts into something deeper, the chemistry and emotional tension between them builds in the most satisfying way. Lilah’s journey is especially powerful. She starts off as a quiet, self-sufficient woman and gradually steps into her own, learning to stop molding herself to others’ expectations and instead claim her voice and agency. Her growth felt deeply personal and empowering.
Arthur adds a perfect emotional counterbalance. He seems calm and confident on the outside, but as his layers peel back, we see the pain he’s learned to carry with grace. The emotional depth in his character makes the romance all the more meaningful.
From rooftop confessions to that unforgettable dance scene to the tender moments in the hotel room, their love story left me completely captivated. I adored watching their friendship grow into something honest and lasting. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy.

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Sports Romance? Fake Dating? One Bed Trope-ish? Guy Falls First? Formula One? Plus, a debut novel with depth? Immediately Yes.

"That's the magic of golden hour. It reminds us that there's one moment in all the seconds of the day that's better than the ending, the in-between light that exists seemingly only for those bold enough to notice it."

Lilah Graywood makes serious, thought-provoking documentaries, so getting dragged into the fast-paced world of Formula 1 along with her boyfriend's latest scheme is the last place she wants to be. Especially when that boyfriend turns out to be a selfish jerk who completely blindsided her. Enter Arthur Bianco, a talented F1 driver with baggage of his own and a revenge plan that just might benefit them both. As Lilah and Arthur fake their relationship and take control of the high-stakes documentary, their undeniable chemistry threatens to turn their worlds upside down. An amazing debut about second chances, finding yourself, and unexpected love!

Round up from a 3.5! I liked this one overall, though the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and insta-love just isn't my thing. That said, the banter was excellent. I appreciated the thoughtful mentions of Lilah's ADHD and how it shaped her experience growing up and throughout her career. Arthur was the real standout, an absolute gem of a book boyfriend who fell first and fast. Lilah's swings from shy to saucy gave me a bit of whiplash, but Arthur carried this one for me. Plus, I LOVED all the supporting characters and would read more books if this became a series!!

Thanks to Net Galley, Simon & Schuster, and Madge Maril for granting me access to this book. All opinions are my own.

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Thank you, Madge Maril, NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the ARC!

Slipstream follows Lilah Greywood as she reluctantly agrees to film a Formula one documentary following the reserve drive Arthur Bianco. Lilah enters the world of Formula one after her business partner/secret boyfriend convinces her to leave behind of political documentaries for the flashy life of F1. Shortly after arriving at the Ignition Headquarters and meeting Arthur, Lilah's world turns upside down as she is dumped, fired and learns that the company she worked so hard to build isn't really hers. A chance run in with Arthur at a local bar leads to them coming up with a revenge plan to make the documentary to get back at her ex-boyfriend and Arthurs' boss (his uncle). One thing leads to another, and a semi fake dating situation ensues as Lilah learns more about Formula one and the "playboy" Arthur leading Lilah to believe maybe her growing feelings aren't fake at all.

Lilah was a main FMC you wanted to root for. She sees herself as an alien because of her neurodivergent differences and ADHD. Her ex would just try and control her and tell her how to act, but Arthur liked all her unique qualities. We get to see her as she learns being an "alien" isn't a bad thing (which I love). Arthur falls hard and fast for Lilah so most of the story watching Lilah catch up to his feelings and realizing he wasn't pretending. I haven't read many Formula one books but this one was a great introduction to the sport! Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it!

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A man who has been quietly loving her from the beginning?!?! There is nothing more swoony!!

Slipstream is Madge’s DEBUT NOVEL and it’s slow burn perfection!!

Lilah Graywood is an award winning documentarian who, to her chagrin, is tasked with documenting a year with Ignition, an F1 team where Arthur Bianco is a reserve driver. It’s Lilah’s first time ever experiencing the world of F1. They team up to make an amazing documentary in order to get revenge on people in their lives who have wronged them, and to boost each of their own careers. They travel the world together, there’s night club dancing, karaoke singing, airplane cuddles, a sunscreen application moment 😏 This read is as fast as Arthur racing to win the Grand Prix- I couldn’t put it down!!

I got a little confused with the fake dating/scheming plot which is why this wasn't five stars for me. But I truly love the characters and can't wait for book 2!

Thank you Simon and Schuster for inviting me to read Slipstream via NetGalley!!

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🏎️I'd like to extend a thank you to Madge Maril, Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for the privilege of being able to read Slipstream in digital format. I will share my review to Amazon, Goodreads, and Barnes & Noble.

🏎️I loved this one! A contemporary sports romance focused on F1 with a slow burn love, neurodivergent characters, and consent-forward spice scenes... What's not to love? Lilah Graywood, our FMC, is so relatable and fierce. I have a feeling other ADHD girlies will feel very connected to her chaos and her thoughts. I enjoyed her and her building romance with Arthur in a way I can't fully explain. It felt like sunshine, and the chemistry was intense! Arthur is so witty and funny - and the way he fell for her was divine. The slow burn is delicious! The way the book savors their tension is a master class and I was extremely invested! Even though he has a playboy reputation, their fake relationship blooms into something much more real and heart-wrenchingly authentic. Slipstream feels very accessible to any romance reader, regardless of whether you are an F1 fanatic. I can't wait to read more from Madge Maril - this one is worthy of a podium finish!

🏎️You might like if you are a fan of:

- The Love Hypothesis - Ali Hazelwood
- The Hating Game - Sally Thorpe
- Morbidly Yours - Ivy Fairbanks
- The Wall of Winnipeg & Me - Mariana Zapata

Major Themes & Tropes:

🎥 found family
🏎️ sports romance/F1 motorsport racing
💘 slow burn
😂 humor/banter
🧠 neurodivergent rep
🏆 redemption arc

4.2/5 stars

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4.5/5

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria for sharing this one with me!

It was a little slow to start, but very informative on F1 and documentary processes. This is a great book for anyone who wants to get into F1 but isn't familiar with the sport.

But because it was slow to get into the romance, I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and watch them slowly fall in love and find themselves. This is first person from the FMC POV, and she is neurospicy but her thoughts were so real and honest. It was refreshing, especially when you can relate.

The slowburn romance was so good, the MMC was so so sweet and protective of those he loved, and that will ALWAYS make me love a book. Don't get me started on his spicy scene, there wasn't much spice. But the spice we did get was white hot, like damn.

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