Title: Start Me Up
Author: Victoria Dahl
First published January 1, 2009
367 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780373773909 (ISBN10: 0373773900)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
When Lori inherited her father’s auto body shop, she never expected to stay in Tumble Creek for long. But her best friend Molly has other plans for her, which involve hot and steamy sex with no strings attached.
That’s when she meets Quinn Jennings, an architect who only cares about his career. Quinn is thrilled to find someone who shares his desire for passion without commitment.
As they explore their deepest desires together, Quinn realizes he wants more from Lori than just a physical connection. But when danger comes to Tumble Creek, Quinn will do everything in his power to protect Lori and their newfound love.
About the Author
My passion for writing stems from my mother, an enthusiastic reader of popular fiction. At eleven years old, I stumbled upon some rather inappropriate books that she had left lying around – thanks, Mom! To Tempt a Scotsman, a historical novel that won the Golden Heart award, was my first published book.
I even got to sign the cover. My second book, A Rake’s Guide to Pleasure, was excerpted at the back of Scotsman.
My agent, recognizing my goofiness, suggested that I try writing a contemporary romantic comedy. I had a blast writing Talk Me Down, which follows the story of a young woman who returns to her small hometown in Colorado, causing a stir with her secretive career and a budding relationship with the chief of police.
Tara Parsons at HQN loved it too! If you enjoy cold weather, hot sex, and dirty jokes, be sure to check out Talk Me Down, available from January 2009.
My family and I live in a stunning ski town in Utah, though I’m not one for skiing. I prefer to stay indoors with a hot toddy and a good book, watching the snow fall from the comfort of my home.
It’s a full house with the dukes, Scotsmen, police chiefs, and naughty ladies running around, but my family is understanding of my imaginary friends – good thing, since they refuse to leave!
Editoral Review
Victoria Dahls 2009 novel Start Me Up is a delightful addition to the contemporary romance genre. Dahl is known for her witty and engaging prose, and this book is no exception.
The story follows the lives of two main characters, Sara and Gabe, as they navigate their way through a small town in Wyoming, trying to find love and success in their respective careers. Sara, a former rock star, has left behind her music career for a quieter life in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
She now runs her own bookstore, but shes struggling to make ends meet. Gabe, on the other hand, is a successful businessman who has recently moved back to Wyoming after years away in New York City.
Sparks fly when the two meet, but their differences threaten to tear them apart. One of the strengths of the book is the setting.
Dahls vivid descriptions of Jackson Hole make the reader feel like they are right there in the middle of the small town. The characters are also well-developed, and the dialogue is snappy and entertaining.
However, the plot is somewhat predictable, and the conflicts between the characters are resolved a bit too neatly. Additionally, some of the secondary characters are not as fully developed as they could be, which takes away from the richness of the story.
Despite these limitations, Start Me Up is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of the romance genre. Its a perfect escapist novel, full of humor, heart, and some steamy love scenes.
The book also touches on themes of self-discovery and finding ones passion in life, which are relevant to readers of all ages. Overall, I would highly recommend Start Me Up to anyone looking for a fun and light read.
While it may not be groundbreaking, its a well-written and enjoyable novel that will leave readers feeling satisfied. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.