An Uncertain Road by Abbey Downey

Abbey Downey introduces readers to the early days of automobile races in her sweet historical romance An Uncertain Road.

Book Description

An Uncertain Road by Abbey Downey book cover

A female auto racer, a mechanic determined to walk away from the sport, and the race of a lifetime… When young widow Flora Montfort returns to America, she’s determined to use her training in auto racing to support herself and her French mother-in-law—even if female drivers are rare in 1905. So when the owner of a successful sporting goods store hires her to drive in the Glidden Tour, a ten-day race through New England, she jumps at the opportunity.

Jensen Gable must be convinced that joining the team as the ride-along mechanic is worth the risk. After losing his best friend in a tragic racing accident, Jensen has vowed never to participate in the sport again. But his promise to protect that friend’s younger brother, also on the tour, is the only thing that outweighs his fear of the dangers.

As they race through New England, Flora and Jensen find common ground that ignites their interest in each other, but doubts and old enemies come between them. Hazardous road conditions, meddling locals, and competitors who’ll stop at nothing to win—they all conspire to prevent Flora and Jensen from reaching the finish line. As the race of a lifetime heats up, one question rises above all others…can their love find the road that leads to forever?

My Thoughts

Downey provides a beautiful love story amidst the backdrop of the early 20th century. Jensen and Flora’s love story has a bit of a slow build, but the resolution is more than worth the wait. I loved seeing the tentative friendship develop that eventually leads to love.

The racing aspect was in itself compelling. I liked the way Downey sprinkled in bits about auto racing without it feeling overwhelming. And she did a great way of using the race to add tension to Jensen and Flora’s relationship while also adding an element of forced proximity.

Overall, An Uncertain Road is a sweet historical romance.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy for review. All opinions expressed are my own.)

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