Ride with Me by Simone Soltani

In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Ride with Me makes space for a connection that’s anything but rushed.

Simone Soltani puts a fresh spin on the marriage of convenience trope in Ride with Me, delivering a smart, emotionally grounded romance set against the glitz of Las Vegas and the high-stakes world of Formula 1.

Stella Baldwin is still reeling from a very public heartbreak when she crosses paths with Thomas Maxwell-Brown, an F1 driver under intense pressure and facing growing pressure and unwanted notoriety. What begins as an impulsive decision quickly turns into a complicated but oddly stabilizing arrangement. Both characters are navigating personal upheaval and public scrutiny, and their connection feels authentic from the start. They are equals in many ways, not just in terms of status and success, but in how they understand what it means to start over when the world is watching.

Slow Burn, Strong Foundation

Thomas is a standout hero. Thoughtful, steady, and quietly affectionate, he consistently shows up for Stella in ways that are both meaningful and tender. His emotional intelligence adds real depth to his character, making him feel fully realized rather than idealized. Stella is just as compelling. She is smart, ambitious, and determined to rebuild her life on her own terms. Their relationship unfolds with a sense of mutual care and growing trust that makes their slow-burn dynamic even more satisfying.

The romance is balanced well between sweet, sexy, and sincere. While the story includes moments of heat and humor, the real strength lies in how Stella and Thomas treat each other with intention, respect, and affection. That said, I would have liked to see a bit more effort from Thomas during a pivotal turning point late in the story. The final chapters wrap things up a little too quickly, and I found myself wishing for more time with them as a fully formed couple.

Even so, Ride with Me is a thoughtful, feel-good romance that leans into emotional intimacy without sacrificing fun. It will appeal to readers who appreciate supportive partners, believable character growth, and relationships built on more than just attraction. Soltani continues to bring a grounded elegance to the world of F1 romance, and I’m looking forward to wherever she takes us next.

Pre-Order your copy of Ride with Me here. Or reserve your hold at your local library soon!

Watch or listen to our Sip & Discuss Episode of Cross the Line by Simone Soltani via the website or YouTube.