Final Draft

by Kristie Leigh

To the public, I was known as Camden Freeman, the bad boy of the race world. The one who had it all, including women. As a driver, I never liked to take things slow, and Lindsay was no exception. I’d agreed to one night as a favor. But from the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew I had to have her, but it wasn’t until the final draft that I knew it was forever. I was used to getting everything I wanted, but Lindsay was going to make me earn it every step of the way.

Genres: Sports, Contemporary, Romance

316 pages, Paperback

Published September 8, 2021

About the author

Kristie Leigh is a fiery redhead and USA Today Bestselling Author who fell in love with small-town life long before she ever experienced it. Growing up, she dreamed of quiet streets, friendly neighbors, and the kind of close-knit community that feels like home. Now, she’s living that dream in a rural Alabama town with her high school sweetheart and their three kids.

Her passion for small-town romance comes alive in her stories, where back roads and burning hearts lead to love, second chances, and the kind of happily-ever-afters that stay with you long after the last page.

Reviews

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enter a giveaway here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewFD1

This was my first read by Kristie Leigh but it won't be my last!

This story was so unexpected...just like the relationship between Camden and Lindsay was. I was pulled in from the very beginning, we were give two very likable characters that weren't looking for anything more than a single night together, but you know things have a way of changing ones mind right, well neither one of them could stop thinking of the other.

The chemistry was great and although there was a bit of angst it wasn't over the top. I enjoyed watching Lindsay come to grips with her feelings, and Camden was a goner from the moment he laid eyes on her....how romantic is that.

I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Steamy Contemporary Romances, Sports Romances, ONS turning into more Romances, heck I'd recommend this to anyone that is interested in a good read period.

Happy Reading!!!



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Kristie is a new to me author and this will not be the last book for me! I fell in love with her characters and writing!

Lindsay and Camden only want no strings attached! They agree on a blind date for that reason alone, but as their night progresses they discover theirs more to the other and maybe one night isn’t enough!

I really loved how open and honest both were with each other! No beating around the bush just open and honest! I also loved that Camden may appear to be a playboy but he was more than that! He isn’t the type to jump into things but when it came to Lindsay he was all in and he was a man on a mission.

I enjoyed the banter and just how cute these two could be! They were hilarious and so were the people they surrounded themselves with! The secondary characters were amazing and great friends to these two crazy love birds!

[Steph's Romance Book Talk · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars / 4.25 Steam Fans

Lindsey and Camden are two commitmentphobes that decide to become friends with benefits. Lindsey has writer's block, and Camden is about to become a retired race car driver until they cross the line one night. This story is funny, sexy, and yummy.

Video review available in Week 36: Sep 5 – Sep 11, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.

For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazon



What happens when 2 people not looking for anything but a night together can't keep their minds off each other? Camden, the racer with a rep, and Lindsey the author who's gone blank, have chemistry in spades. But is a relationship in the cards?



The seeming playboy falls hard and she makes him work hard for it. What's not love about that? Well, in this case, nothing because Final Draft is great - sexy, sweet, and Lindsay and Camden are both likable characters who can't help but fall in love with each other, even though they weren't looking for love, at all.



ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dear Author – Your characters told you they did not want to be in a relationship. In fact, they stated this many times throughout the story. Did you even listen to them? No, you continued to create a slow burn to oops, we are in a relationship. What starts as a “pity date” becomes so much more. We do get back stories and some fun side characters as well. I enjoyed reading about Cam and Lindsay and their non-dates.

Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Larissa Rye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awe man I loved Camden! When this playboy falls, he falls hard! I love how he was with Lindsay, it was so sweet, cute & just made me smile. Lindsay is one of the most stubborn anti relationship female character I’ve read in a while. These two were so anti relationship that it was almost funny. So I really liked seeing them fall for each other.

I really liked the storyline & that ending left me with such a good happy feeling. I do wish we got to see more of Cam’s racing career only because I find it so interesting.

[Pleasure Your Shelf · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Laura Horsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristie hit this one out of the park! It was a fantastic read, that kept you engaged throughout the whole ride. I loved the dynamic between Cam and Lindsay too—it had the perfect amount of give and take—leaving you rooting for that HEA! Sometimes love has a way of finding you when you least expect it!

[Dania · Rating 4 out of 5]

One race car driver with a playboy reputation, one romance writer in a slump, both sworn off relationships… and one blind date with a promise of no strings attached.

I did not expect Camden or even Lindsay. Despite his reputation and his not so sunny disposition, he was genuinely a good guy and a great friend.
Lindsey’s aversion to commitment was a nice change.

The flow of the story was super smooth. It went from kind of a pity blind date, the attraction was there, and even though both agreed it would only be one night, Camden woke up not ready to call it quits. It was pretty sweet watching him work for it and earn it. Their non-dates looked like dates to everyone but them… well her. Camden caught feelings first and I LOVE when that happens. But it was like they were both living in denial for a while.

But the universe was really pushing for them to be together with the number of people wanting to set them up. And their journey was just so sweet.

𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑫𝒓𝒂𝒇𝒕 is my first book by Kristie Leigh. I loved the characters, and the side characters. The story itself was a fast light read. There wasn’t a lot angst. But there was a lot of feelings.

There was one specific part that I absolutely loved… so Lindsey had writer’s block, but after her first night with Camden the story just flew out of her fingers (technically doesn’t make sense but you get the gist) and with each encounter, her book was coming together more and more. He read the draft and was actually super into it! Here’s my favorite part.. he immediately picked up on the similarities between the characters in her book and them. It was like her subconscious picked up on what they could be and she just gave it life in her book while fighting it in real life. But the fact that he saw it just felt like he was kinda there already even if she wasn’t.

Never mind me, I’m probably reaching but it just felt that way to me… anyway, I wonder if we’re getting the friends’ stories because that would be pretty cool!

[Anna M_82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, the characters, the story, and everything in between. What happens when two people who don’t do commitment meet their “one”? Read this book to find out!!

Cam and Lindsay are two awesome characters. Cam is a race car driver about to retire. He’s never been in a relationship because he mostly finds gold diggers, so the press tends to paint him as a player. Lindsay is a romance author who had her heart broken and dragged through the mud so she keeps things very casual. Mutual friends arrange a date for these two for a function knowing that no one will have to think about tomorrow. But when Cam meets Lindsay all bets are off on keeping this to one night.

I LOVED Cam!! You will start out thinking he’s a player but he will quickly change your mind!! You will be in love with his character before you know it. Lindsay quickly becomes all he can think about but he will have to convince her that he’s different than she thinks. After a race accident leaves Cam injured, these take an awesome turn for these two. I really enjoyed watching them fall in love. Also, there is a scene in the rain that is 🔥🔥🔥.

The story about Cam and Lindsay is a terrific read and I highly recommend it! You will fall in love with these characters and root for them to find their HEA. They both deserve it and they could be so happy together if they open their hearts. Thanks Kristie for a wonderful book!

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johnaka- Amity Book Blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Final Draft by Kristie Leigh
“Anti-relationship, 3 stars”


Lindsay and Cam are set up by a mutual friend to attend a gala together. Both of them are anti-relationship, so it works perfectly. They had a fun night full of spice and witty banter. But they both know the score. Only for some reason, they are drawn to each other. Can these two anti-relationship people manage to fall for one another?
Lindsay was the most anti-relationship female that I’ve read in a long time. Which isn’t a bad thing. But her character confused me a little, especially in the beginning. And personally, I just couldn’t connect with her. Especially where she writes romance, but doesn’t do relationships.
Cam was anti-relationship, but once he met Lindsay, he wanted to try. Poor dude had to jump through so many hoops to prove to her he was serious. Then you have her throwing jabs reminding him of his past and after a while, it was just old.
I think the book just wasn’t for me. Even though it wasn’t my favorite read, I still read it from start to finish. I can step back and see how this could be a book others would enjoy, it’s just not my cup of tea. Don’t count this one out just because it wasn’t for me.
Plot-3/5
Characters-3/5
Heat-3/5
Writing style-3/5
Overall-3/5

[Vera Blaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued by the blurb about this book that I had to read it. I’m so glad I took the risk on a new to me author because she is seriously one talented writer! Lindsay and Camden are not into relationships so one off dates are enough for them. It’s the only reason why their mutual friend paired them up for a fundraiser gala. Cam is intrigued by Lindsay. He wants to spend more time with her, but she’s the one ghosting him! When Linds comes to her senses and texts Cam, they begin a friendship unlike any other either one has had. They are each other’s first thought in the morning and last thought before bed. When he gets in an accident during his last race, Lindsay volunteers to be his caretaker.He wants more. How does he let her know? She doesn’t want to let her real feelings known. These two have been unlucky in love so they find it hard to let their feelings out. It was a twist to to see the female lead be the one averse to putting labels on their relationship and to letting what was in her heart flow freely. I have a feeling I’ll be reading more books by this author.

I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Final Draft by Kristie Leigh is much more than what fellow author Lindsay expected. All she wanted was her book to be a success something her own life is nothing like right now. Instead of be a recluse author her book is instead of bringing out a romance she never expected. She has known a man like Camden Freeman before and knows her heart cannot take on a man like him again. Problem is Camden is proving to become something more of a hot distraction and not just a one night stand like she expected. He is showing her that she can love again even if it means believing in romance. The chemistry between them is all there and loved how Kristie Leigh shows us two sides between them even they are surprised by this new love. Seeing Camden at the brink of his retirement falling in love for first time and Lindsay opening her heart again was beautiful even if it means a romance book coming to life. Loved it.

"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Draft by Kristie Leigh had me so hooked from the first chapter . I could not help but become 100% invested in both Camden and Lindsey , they will have you cheering them on through this entire amazing story. It all starts with a blind date and off the charts chemistry between these two.They make it clear that they are only looking for no strings attached, but as the night goes on they learn many things about one another and find their feelings changing .This is such a fun book , with just the right amount of emotion, intrigue, heat and wonderful characters . There is much more to Camden then we first realize , he appears to be a playboy but as the layers get peeled back we see so much more .one of the things I loved most between Camden and Lindsay is that they are always so up front with one another about what they want and what they are hoping for . This awesome book , was the perfect combination of romance , love , steam intrigue and a flawlessly written story

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through friends, Camden & Lindsay end up as each other's blind date to a charity event. Expecting a slightly awkward & uncomfortable night, both are surprised when they get along well with each other. For two commitment-phobic individuals, the desire to be with each other is more than a bit shocking.

I enjoyed this romance. Camden & Lindsay started out unsure, but as they each got over themselves, their romance unfurled in a really sweet way. Their romance reminds you that love can find you in the strangest ways, and at moments when you least expect it. Camden & Lindsay - even as their relationship hits snags and bumps - were always upfront with each other, and I liked that. There were no crazy, silly secrets between them.

I recommend this read. It has lots of humor, banter, love, steam and romance. You'll love Lindsay & Camden as individuals, and together. I could hardly put it down.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camden is the super sexy bad boy of the racing world who doesn't take it slow when he wants something. Lindsay is a romance author who feels the same way about commitment as Camden does. However, when these two are set up on a blind date, they go despite the fact that neither planned for anything else but the one night (and not necessarily in a sexy way either). They both leave thinking that's it, but fate has a sense of humor, and neither could stop thinking about the other. I think my favorite thing besides a sexy race driver is the fact that these two knew how to actually communicate like adults so there wasn't any drama because they couldn't use their words as they got closer. I'm not saying that there weren't any bumps in the road because there were but not from them. There's a lot of heat, humor, witty interactions, and maybe just maybe love will take over. You'll have to hit those one click buttons to see for yourselves as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This story ended up being a pleasant surprise. I am a sports romance novel tragic. There are certain sports I prefer to read but really I try not to discriminate and I’ll give them all a shot.
Camden & Lindsay’s story had me loving it right from their blind date. I liked how they didn’t want to label what they were but found ways to be together.
The story flowed seamlessly and with some truly wonderful supporting characters it all adds to make this such a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book." ~Sharon


"When 2 people think they want one thing but realize they want the total opposite it causes some emotions. I just loved how Camden just kept fighting for what he wanted and finally got it all


This is the first book by this author I have read and I will gladly read others going forward." ~Jen

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars!!

Having read Ms.Leigh's work before I've been wanting to pick up more of her books! When this one was announced i added it to my TBR List right away and knew I had to read it next! I really enjoyed this story!

I got into Lindsay and Camden's journey right away! I so enjoyed the way they're brought together, the chemistry between these two and getting to dig deeper with them. I really liked the author and racer aspect of this story. I felt so many things throughout as well!

With Final Draft, Ms.Leigh has created a great read i didn't want to turn away from! I can't wait to read what she comes up with next! (:


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read any books by this author prior to reading “Final Draft”. Kristie Leigh writes beautifully and I loved her book. I read the story all in one sitting as it was a great story. The characters, Camden and Lindsay, were so well developed that they were really realistic and relatable. I loved the characters, they met through a blind date and were only looking for one light together with no strings. But, they ended up not being able to forget the other. I highly recommend reading this book for those that enjoy reading contemporary romances. I am sure you will enjoy this book as much as I did. I will definitely be looking for other books by Ms. Leigh.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy [Book Addict Reviews] · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when two people who have sworn off love and relationships go on a blind date? Chemistry immediately oozes off the pages between Lindsay and Camden. While neither wants a relationship, neither of them can stop thinking about the other and they might as well enjoy each other’s company.

Camden is known as a bad boy racer and Lindsay is a romance author. I loved that there is so much more to both of these characters and I loved getting to see more of them as the story progressed. I loved the dynamic between the two of them. There is push and pull throughout their entire relationship.

Final Draft has great combination of steam, laughs and emotions. Camden and Lindsay are just to characters that you can’t help but root for.

If you’re looking for a strangers to friends to lovers romance this is one to check out.

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camden and Lindsay are set up on a blind date by a mutual friend. They're perfect for each other - neither one is looking for more than a nice night together. I love the terrific advice Cam got from the Uber driver regarding how to treat women. It was hilarious to see how the words flow after spending just one night with Cam; he's unknowingly become her muse. I love the story, not so much drama or angst, just two people who become friends, moving along toward the relationship that neither thought they wanted. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsay and Camden

Never had a serious relationship, and he doesn’t intend to change.

Lindsay was in a relationship that went very bad, she does not plan on ever letting anyone close enough to hurt her again.

Then they meet at a charity function. Can they be friends with benefits without becoming entangled? Lindsay is good at keeping her distance, what does Camden have to do to get her to see him again.

I really liked they two. They were open and honest about their expectations. There was no lying or creepy tactics by either character. This is a new to me author, I will be checking out her backlist.

[Sharon Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story ended up being a pleasant surprise. I am a sports romance novel tragic. There are certain sports I prefer to read but really I try not to discriminate and I’ll give them all a shot.
Camden & Lindsay’s story had me loving it right from their blind date. I liked how they didn’t want to label what they were but found ways to be together.
The story flowed seamlessly and with some truly wonderful supporting characters it all adds to make this such a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first outing by this author but I was so impressed with Ms Leigh's writing style. Camden and Lindsey's story had just the right amount of everything that makes you keep reading, it was intriguing to watch this couple's romance unfold, as racing driver Camden at 35 had never had a serious relationship and Lindsey, the romance author, had had her heartbroken vowing never to go down that road again. But the more they keep being pushed together the more they like each other.
Final Draft was sprinkled with some great humous moments that made this an around must-read.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Camden and Lindsay’s story. Camden is a bad boy racing driver, and Lindsay is a romance author, and these two meets on a blind date, but neither of them is looking for a relationship, but fate has destined them to be together. The sparks fry between these two when they meet, and the chemistry is explosive and combustible. This is a beautifully written story which is fun, entertaining, and with humor, witty banter, and love, which leads to a steamy and all-consuming riveting page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! This was my first book by Kristie Leigh, but I can guarantee you it won’t be my last! Camden and Lindsay were amazing…fun, witty, the back and forth banter, the laughs, the STEAM and the romance had me falling in love with this book and couple! I was intrigued from the first page until the very last and overall enjoyed the well-rounded feeling of this book! Definitely a must read.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Draft was my first book by Kristie Leigh and it won't be my last. Sexy race car driver Camden Freeman agrees to a blind date with Lindsay knowing that's all it would be. One night with no commitment and no strings. But after meeting Lindsay and spending an amazing night together, he wants more. Camden will have to work hard to convince Lindsay to give them a chance but good thing Camden doesn't plan to give up without a fight. Loved!

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

This is the first book I've read by Kristie Leigh and it was so good! I look forward to more from her. Camden is a successful and gorgous playboy race car driver who doesn't do relationships and Lindsey is a quirky romance book author who has sworn off men after a failed relationship. So cue the blind date set up because nothing will come of it; no pressure from either parties. So what happens when 2 anti-relationship people end up thinking they may want one? A lot of fun, laughter, and stubbornness ensue for a good time lol.

The story flowed easily and I love the banter between all the main characters and side characters. I loved seeing the journey of Lindsey and Camden. And I thought it was so cute that Kristie made Lindsey a romance author and and all the litte tidbits of releasing a romance book.

A good, easy, fun read and well worth it!

[casvec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blind date between the bad boy racer and a romance writer, turn for an uncomfortable date to a night they both enjoy. Camden and Lindsay's story is a sweet romance with a few ups and downs in the road, that make the ride a delight to be on.

I enjoyed the journey with the heated chemistry, fun banter and steamy romance that pulls you in with each turn of the page.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it !!! a blind date, that's all it was supposed to be until, it wasn't... love Cam and Lindsey... this is their story... a fast paced drama... a playboy race car driver and a romance author...one night that's all it is...how can it be love ? the ups and downs... the bumps in the road... can this really work ?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.