Welcome to Indigo Adams’ story. We’ve gotten a brief peek into her life previously through the Pepped Up and Wilder, but now it’s time for Indy to step up and shine, and she certainly does shine. Her background is so compelling, particularly because she is relatively new to running compared to the others she competes with. Since she’s so new, she has a bit of a chip on her shoulder, and if I know anything, it’s that I love a good underdog story. Indy is incredibly relatable and it makes her delightful to read. She has insecurities and she has doubts, but she never lets them hold her back. Even though it’s scary, she packs up her entire life and moves to Brockton to train with the best. Imagine leaving behind everything you know to pursue your dreams. Now imagine that the man you’ve had a crush on for years is your new teammate and coach. And you now live with him. What could possibly go wrong?

I was so thrilled to see that my beloved Ryan Harding would be getting some well-deserved attention. Since the first Pepper Jones book, I have been so intrigued by his character. Are there actually men out there who are this kind and confident and talented in real life? We’re not sure, but at least we have Ryan to help us hold out hope. Although most of the story is told from Indy’s perspective, we get to glimpse where Ryan’s head is at. Is his attraction and love for Indy at the forefront of his mind? Yes. Is his desire to see her succeed professionally at the forefront of his mind? Also, yes. Does being her coach and boyfriend cause internal struggle for him? Yes, yes it certainly does.

Indy’s talent as a runner is undeniable, and everyone can see it clearly except for her. She constantly works to prove herself (hi imposter syndrome, how are ya?) which is often to the detriment of her health. She’s got something to prove and this drives her to push herself to the edge. As her coach, Ryan should be stepping in, but he’s afraid to push her away. Finding a balance to this propels the second half of the book.

On top of all this, we have Indy’s manipulative ex-boyfriend who pops up at the worst times. Because of her past, this makes it all the more difficult for Indy to accept Ryan’s affection. These parts of the book were some of the hardest for me to read because I relate in such a personal level. I’m not an elite runner, but I know what it’s like for a man to make me feel uncomfortable and unsafe but to not really know what exactly is making me feel that way. It’s hard to read, but it’s important to note the subtleties of Liam’s behavior because it’s something that’s all too common to experience.

Indy and Ryan’s story deserves to be read. It’s complicated and charming and you’ll want to read it all in one sitting. I took my time with this one and really savored each word (I read it a second time and flew through it because, why not). Whether you choose to speed through or take your time, just be sure to enjoy it. You only get to read it for the first time once!




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I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.