I adore what Toni Shiloh writes - she has tge ability to make a reader feel so good and cozy in a book.... Thankful to be able to experience A Run at Love - filled with hope, humor, and of course falling in love .💕

“Darlin’, no man wants any part of him to sparkle. Ms. Meyer has hoodwinked a generation of women.” I laughed out loud at this quote! A Run at Love is a new favorite from Toni Shiloh. From the first page I was drawn in to this delightful, thoughtful, funny, sweet, childhood friends to more romance! It’s also infused with faith and an inspirational, thought provoking look at race, interracial adoption, and interracial couples.

Paige was born in Africa and adopted by a wealthy white family who owns a horse racing empire. Paige has also developed a love of horses and horse racing and wants to be the first Black woman to win the Kentucky Derby. As she struggles with trying to find her own path in this competitive arena, she leans on her best friend and horse training partner Tucker whom she’s secretly in love with. As she navigates her feelings towards her biological parents, adoptive parents, and Tucker, she also has to deal with unwanted publicity and accusations against her father.

Tucker’s been in love with Paige since childhood. He wants to be worthy of her and make his business a success before he reveals his romantic feelings for her. He has a whole list of how he’s going to accomplish this. But as his carefully laid plans begin to crumble, he soon realizes that he needs to seek God’s plans for his life.

Paige and Tucker are such a cute couple! I loved the way they were both pining for each other for years and worried about what the other would think when they revealed their feelings. I loved how they easily transitioned from friendship to love. I enjoyed their 90’s romcoms and the fun humor they shared. Theirs is an interracial romance and I appreciated the way the author addressed race in such an inspirational, thoughtful way.

I honesty didn’t know much about horse racing going in to this book, but I soon came to appreciate the hard work that goes into choosing and caring for the right horse. I was cheering right along with Tucker and all Paige’s friends and supporters with each race Dream enters leading up to the Kentucky Derby. There’s also a darling little goat named Baby who plays an important role. Her father’s business comes under scrutiny as a nosey journalist investigates Paige’s past which brings a bit of suspense and drama to the story. I enjoyed how this offers a chance for change and growth. I also love Paige’s and Tucker’s friends and how they supported each another.

Defintely add this funny, romantic, well written, inspirational. romcom to your must read list! Though it’s part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I recommend reading the first book though to really appreciate all the characters and group of friends. I can’t wait for Chris’ story! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

This is the first time I've read a book by Toni Shiloh, and it brought back fond memories of my uncle and his horse-training days at the track. And so it was interesting to get a behind-the-scenes look at horse owners and trainers, as well as what they go through to achieve a winning horse.

I appreciated the author's handling of interracial relationships and her insights into that, as well as into white people who adopt black children. I loved Piper's thoughts on that. I also loved the faith element in this book. Trusting in God and forgiveness were strong throughout.

However, the story did seem to drag on, which had me frustrated and I think it was because of the romance. It was way too "Hallmark" for me. The constant back and forth with Piper and Tuck drove me crazy because it seemed like it was the same conversation (in their heads) over and over again.

Despite that, it is a good story with a nice side-scandal that kept me reading.

For my honest opinion, I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House via NetGalley.

A Run at Love is the second book in the Love in the Spotlight series. While characters from the previous book do make an appearance, I do think this could be enjoyed just fine as a standalone as well.

Before reading this book, my knowledge of horse racing was slim--- just little bits and pieces I'd picked up from the occasional movie on the topic, but my lack of knowledge didn't matter in the slightest. Toni Shiloh very quickly draws the readers into this world and kept me intrigued from start to finish! I enjoyed learning more about that topic, but it was far from the only thing this story had going for it. You also get a wonderfully done friends to more romance, family drama and scandal and great messages of faith all mixed in too. The relationship between Tucker and Piper was really great... friends to more is always fun because there's such a good, strong foundation there and that was certainly the case here. I couldn't help but love both of these characters and them together as a couple. I won't say too much about the scandal--- you'll have to read it to find out--- but it certainly kept me invested in the story. One of the things that I love about Toni Shiloh's books is that her characters truly live out their faith in a way that is apparent in their lives, and we see that here again... they have some lessons to learn, sure, but some of those lessons were reminders I needed myself too. It also took on the topics of interracial relationships and transracial adoptions, which I thought were done really well too. Really, there was so much to love in this book, and I found myself enjoying it even more than the first.

If you're looking for a great Christian romance, this is absolutely one to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Once again Toni Shiloh has tugged on my heart strings with this wonderful story and romance. These characters have true emotional depth, which makes them more real to me as the reader. Piper McKinney was adopted by her parents when she was young. She is a black woman who knows she is loved by her parents, but she has felt a little rootless with so many unanswered questions in her life. She often wonders about her birth family and how different her life would have been if she had not been adopted. She grew up on a large, successful horse farm in Kentucky. It has always been her dream to own her own horse and have that horse win the Kentucky Derby. This is how she ends up with her foal, Dream. She knows this will not be an easy task, but she is willing to put it all on the line. I love that she does not dream small. She dreams big and believes in that dream. She is also a black woman in a white man's world with horse racing, but this girl does not let that deter her from making her dreams a reality.

She needs a trainer, and she knows there is no one better than her best friend, Tucker Hale. Tucker and Piper have been friends since elementary school. Tucker has been fighting his feelings for Piper for a long time.

When scandal rocks the McKinney family and their farm, Piper and Tucker get pulled into the fray as well. This is going to make this journey that much more difficult, if they can overcome this scandal and the bad press that goes along with it.

Piper and Tucker were made for one another. They just need to get out their own way. There were so many touching scenes in this book that I lost count. You know what I mean. Those scenes that make you sigh and maybe swoon a little. Strong faith and leaning on God are key ingredients in this story as well. There is definitely a moral to the story.

I was so excited to see my favorite three men on their text thread just like book #1. Tuck, Lamont and Chris are best friends, but they are also each other's cheerleaders and prayer warriors.

Thank you to Bethany House, NetGalley and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
A Run at Love is the second in Toni Shiloh’s Love in the Spotlight series. It can be read as a standalone, although I do recommend the first book as well. While I’ve read myriad celebrity romances at this point, the equestrian world, especially related to horse-racing and the Kentucky Derby, were much less familiar. But Shiloh conveys a knowledge for the sport in a way that is digestible for newbies to the sport, conveying the characters’ passion for it, while not going overboard with the technical aspects that could sometimes bog down the narrative.
Piper is an incredible female lead, and I particularly liked how she handled issues with her Black identity in both her professional and personal lives. She’s a Black woman in the horse-racing world, dominated by white men, but she’s also a Black transracial adoptee. I respect how her story highlights the complex feelings someone like her can have, being grateful for the opportunities she has due to the family who raised her, but also being unsettled by the situation, and especially the public’s perception of her.
Tucker is a generally solid guy, and I loved how his romance with Piper developed. They’ve known each other pretty much all their lives, and I love how he’s as passionate about her winning the Kentucky Derby as she is, even making elaborate plans in an attempt to make it happen. They had great chemistry and it was sweet seeing things develop from platonic to something more. I did feel like the marriage proposal came a little too soon, but given how long they knew each other, and how it came rather late in the story, I can accept that it makes sense. And the wedding isn’t necessarily something they’re rushing into by the end, anyway.
This was another heartfelt romance from Toni Shiloh, and I’d recommend it to readers interested in a Christian or sweet (no-sex) romance with a Black lead.

the story of piper and tuck was so stinkin sweet! piper was such a strong character who confidently went against the “normal” and tuck was such a supporting individual who i think is the true ‘underdog’ of the story, if you will! their friends-to-more romance story was very enjoyable 🥹 and i loved how they liked their agendas, to-do’s, and plans, but came to the realization that they must trust in their faith in God! this is a must read 🫶🏻 i also appreciate that this story touches on the topic and point of view of being adopted - it was executed so nice and appropriately i think 🥰

read if you like:
🐴friends-to-more
🏁horse races
🐴family dynamics/drama
🏁extremely likable characters
🐴scandal

#BookRevew : A RUN AT LOVE by Toni Shiloh

“Love is what makes you theirs. Nothing else matters.”

A romance with a heart. While the beginning was a bit slow, I’m glad I persisted since I have always enjoyed the author’s other books. Even if I’m not a fan of horses nor racing, I learned some and all the hard work it took for a horse to even be considered to run at any race.

The friends-to-more trope often features characters oblivious to their feelings for most of the book, but thankfully, that wasn't the case here. Tucker and Piper were clearly meant to be together. Tucker's unwavering support for Piper shone through. While he loved having a plan, the story beautifully portrays his growth as he learns to trust in God.

The story wasn't solely focused on their relationship, which was nice. The shocking scandal added depth and intrigue to the plot.Piper's personal journey of finding her place in society and family was a captivating element that kept me engaged.

The family dynamics were good. I enjoyed Piper’s conversations with her father. This book offered so many valuable lessons, even shedding some tears. The strong friendship among Lamont, Chris, Tuck, and Nevaeh and Piper was another highlight. It was wonderful to revisit them in this book. It’s such a heartwarming story of friendship and love. It’s filled with messages of forgiveness and faith, it reminds us to trust God's presence in every twist and turn of life.


Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Series: Love in the Spotlight Book 2
Pub date: 07 May 2024

Thank you Bethany House Publishers and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have to admit, this book started out very slow for me. I have read other Toni Shiloh books and enjoyed them greatly, but I was just not feeling this one after the first few chapters. I was not into the horse-racing concept, and the fact that both characters were romantically interested in each other but the other one didn't know it just seemed silly. I considered DNFing it, but because I had agreed to review it, I stuck with it and kept going. I'm really glad I did. I enjoyed seeing how God worked in each of the main characters' lives and how they found their way into a good relationship with God's help. In the end, I enjoyed the book a lot more than it seemed I would. Can't wait to see what happens with Chris in the next book!

There is so much to love about this book! As a Kentucky girl who resides in the heart of horse country, this book feels like home. Toni is the queen of faith and I loved the faith woven throughout. The prayers, the relying on God, the Godly friendships, so good!! I can't wait for book 3. Thank you, Toni Shiloh and Bethany House, for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.

When Piper buys a racehorse, Tuck agrees to train it for the Kentucky Derby. A Run at Love is a sweet friends-to-lovers romance that will tug at your heartstrings.

I love the way Tuck looked out for Piper and supported her when she needed help.

Piper and Tuck were a cute couple, and after reading  The Love Script, I was glad to see these two get their happy ending.

Readers of A Run at Love will be reminded that we all make mistakes and desire forgiveness. True repentance comes from the heart, and sometimes forgiveness requires a lot of effort.

It’s another late night & I just finished A Run at Love. Didn’t want to go to bed without finishing this sweet love story. It’s the 2nd book of Love in the Spotlight series. I loved it so much. I liked that it was filled with faith. I also learned a lot. It was so interesting. I laughed. I cried both sad & happy tears. Tuck & Piper really captured my heart. I love their journey from best friends to whatever the future holds for them. I didn’t know much about horse racing or the Kentucky Derby. I liked learning bits & pieces about it. I loved the flirty fun banter between them. It was not without some drama. It reminded me of a hallmark type movie. Really the first two books would be excellent movies. I like that old characters showed up & we got to continue a little of their story. I’m excited to read the next one. I was given a copy, but all opinions are my very own.

A Run At Love was a fun book to read. I loved the plot and learned a bit about horse racing. I think it was fabulous that Piper and Tuck turned to God in every difficult moment. it was interesting reading about how a black person felt being raised in a white culture. Toni Shiloh is an excellent author who always entertains.

So grab a sweet tea and your derby hat, then settle in for a great read.

I was given a copy of A Run At Love with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Toni Shiloh captures so much personality in her characters! And you can tell she does the research! I live in KY-just 2 hrs east of Lexington. I know the traditions and culture. And the fact she includes our state drink? She wins! 🤣

A great sequel to the first book. I really loved Piper and Tuckers story. So many good lessons too. Lots of Christian messages to inspire the reader. I enjoyed how Tucker was an overthinker, excessive planner who had to learn that you need to just let go and Let God sometimes. And that Piper had to learn her value didn't come from MEN'S opinions...just Gods.

4 solid stars!

*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC by the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all words are my own!

This was so cute! I am loving this new series by Toni Shiloh and I was so excited to read this one. A Run at Love is the second book in Toni Shiloh’s Love in the Spotlight series.
Piper and Tucker had such a fun relationship. They were friends first before they moved to anything else. Their interactions were a lot of fun and I loved how they felt comfortable with each other. The romance was sweet and I liked the progression of their relationship. Both Tucker and Piper had to learn to trust each other as they navigate their relationship and the obstacles that stood before them.
I really liked Piper and I felt like I connected with her. She was trying to just find her place. I really felt for her as she tried to figure out what it looked like to care for her family but still be her own person especially as she navigated her family’s scandal. Tucker was also sweet. He was someone who tried to stick to his plans but had to learn to trust God’s leading.
I really liked Tucker’s relationship with the guys, it was so fun. The friendship relationships were some of the best parts of this book. The romance and the progression of the book was perfect. I didn’t want to put it down.
A Run at Love was a lovely book! I would definitely recommend it! The characters were lovable and the story was intriguing. I am so excited for the next book. A Run at Love is a clean contemporary Christian romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

I truly enjoyed reading this story because it taught me some fun facts about horse racing and everything leading up to the Kentucky Derby.
I could tell that the author had done her research and wrote interesting facts throughout the story.
It was a delightful story of two longtime friends becoming more than friends, even when there were many roadblocks in their way. These are fun books to read because we see each character's struggles, and how life would be so much richer if they only shared their feelings.
Life wasn’t all fun and romance, this story dealt with the pressures of society and dealing with forgiveness after mistakes and wrong choices have been made.
I loved the protectiveness of Tucker. He wanted to make sure Piper accomplished her dream. He also didn’t see her color or ethnicity; he just saw her soul, which drew him to her.
Another thing about this book that amused me was how this story ties into some of this author’s other books. We the readers got to reconnect with some past characters. The fun banter between the guys was so entertaining to read. It showed how strong their friendship was, even though they lived such different lives and locations.
Toni Shiloh has written a beautifully touching story with rich word pictures. Many times, I felt deep emotions as I was reading this book. She has a wonderful way of conveying the feelings of each of the characters in this book. I will always pick up one of her books because I know I will be entertained and yet given thoughts to ponder.

This story had all the drama, tension, humor, and romance that will sit with you for a while. It’s truly an enjoyable book to read.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

A RUN AT LOVE is the second novel in the Love in the Spotlight series by TONI SHILOH, but it can easily stand alone. What a lovely book - what more could you want than a sweet romance, lots of horses, and a strong Christian message.?! I cannot recommend the read strongly enough. There is also tension with family relationships being threatened with collapse due to uncovered scandal, all of which takes place in the horse racing and training world. It is a story about inter racial adoption, rejection, uncondicional love, new beginnings, forgiveness, justice and repentance.
Piper McKinney is not sure where she belongs, being a black girl adopted by wealthy white parents. Her parents own the prestigious horse farm, Bolt Brook, where Piper’s best friend Tucker Hale works as a trainer. Piper, with her love for horses, feels she has inherited her adoptive parents’ DNA! At twenty-eight, desperate to make her own way in the world, she buys her own farm and a beautiful colt, Dream, who she employs Tucker to train. Although she is close to her parents, Tucker is the one person who really understands her……
Although Tucker is a man of faith he tends to make extensive plans instead of trusting God .……..
I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I just don’t think that Toni can do any wrong. I love how encouraging her stories are. Tuck is as special as Lamont was in book 1 (The Love Script). Love that he was a believer, his faith was strong and his community was solid! His love and protection of Piper was also so sweet and gave me the feels. I didn’t doubt his affection towards her at any moment.

Piper, our FMC, was determined and driven which I loved. Born in Oloro Ile, she was adopted by her white parents in raised in a prominent white community with not many people who looked like her. I enjoyed watching her come into herself and determine what path she wanted to take for the future she wanted apart from her adopted parents.

Their love story is completely slow burn with some hints of miscommunication in the beginning but once it starts it’s just so sweet. Of course they aren’t perfect but I love that when they face difficulty, they get to reconciliation quickly and move on, that was inspiring!

🐎 clean romance stories
🐎 faith based stories
🐎 Kentucky Derby
🐎 friends to lovers
🐎 family drama

A Run at Love is book two in author Toni Shiloh’s Love in the Spotlight series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Piper McKinney has it all…almost. She’d been adopted by a wonderful couple who have given her an amazing life on their Thoroughbred Farm in Kentucky. She just needs some freedom to forge her own path. Taking the reins on her life, she buys some property and a racehorse, praying this is the start of something phenomenal.
Tucker Hale has been Piper’s best friend since childhood, now working for her folks. He is a man that always has a plan. Though by her actions, he agrees to become her head trainer.
These two best friends love each other fiercely, though neither have admitted it! Will they ever take the leap and confess their feelings for one another? Will their friendship last throughout the deep valleys they are about to travel through? You will most definitely want to find out in A Run at Love! Plus it has my favorite…an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is my own.

Toni Shiloh's "A Run at Love" is a captivating and poignant tale of ambition, identity, and the enduring power of love. Set against the backdrop of the competitive world of horse racing, the novel follows Piper McKinney, a Black woman defying societal norms to make her mark in the industry. Piper's relentless pursuit of her dream to win the Kentucky Derby is met with a myriad of challenges, including prejudice and scrutiny surrounding her past as a transracial adoptee. Amidst the turmoil, she finds solace in Tucker Hale, her best friend and trainer. Tucker harboring unspoken feelings for Piper, devises a plan to train her horse to victory, hoping to prove his worth. Their journey is punctuated by a media scandal that threatens to unravel everything they have worked for. Piper and Tucker must confront their pasts, navigate societal expectations, and fight for their love and dreams. Shiloh masterfully weaves a complex tapestry of characters, exploring themes of identity, race, and the pursuit of excellence. Piper's resilience and determination as she faces adversity are both inspiring and relatable. Tucker's unwavering support and willingness to embrace change are equally endearing. The love story between the two characters is both tender and passionate, adding depth and emotion to the narrative. Shiloh's writing is evocative and engaging, immersing the reader in both the thrilling world of horse racing and the personal struggles of her characters. Her portrayal of the challenges faced by marginalized individuals is nuanced and thought-provoking, fostering empathy and understanding. "A Run at Love" is not merely a love story or a sports novel. It is a powerful and timely exploration of race, identity, and the human spirit. Shiloh has crafted a story that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page.