Ship It

Startup Love #1

by Evie Blum

Still healing from the loss of her father and dealing with the aftermath of a rocky relationship, Sarah is more than ready to jump into her new career in a Silicon Valley startup. Heading out to celebrate the end of the pandemic and her new job with friends seemed like a good idea last night. But as she wakes the morning after, staring into the face of impulsivity itself—a sexy guy clutching his pillow the way he clutched her the night before—she takes the easy way out and slips silently into the San Jose morning, determined to put him, and any other distractions, behind her.

After years of working towards his PhD in computer science, Nathan’s ready for a change and jumps at the chance to join his best friend’s tech startup. It’s all-consuming and cut-throat at times, but he’s ready for anything. Anything, that is, except discovering Sarah, the charming woman he spent one unforgettable night with, works at the company that just promoted him to the C-suite.

Despite their best efforts to keep their relationship professional, things heat up. But secrets come out—including Nathan’s entanglement with his ex—and Sarah and Nathan must ask themselves whether their particular brand of startup can succeed in such uncertain conditions. Will the connection they’re building go to market, or like most startups, will the obstacles along the way cause them to fail?

Sexy might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “high tech,” but the chemistry between Sarah and Nathan will make you think again.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 7, 2022

About the author

Evie is the author of SHIP IT, a fun love story set in a Silicon Valley high-tech startup, and PITCH IT, the spicy sequel. Her third novel, LIGHT IT UP, is a dual POV Jewish story about love, growing as a person, facing your fears, and learning to trust yourself and others. You can find her online at evieblum.com or @EvieBlumAuthor on Instagram and Tiktok.

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance is not my normal genre, so I did not know what to expect when opening this book. What I got was definitely romantic…but also a thoughtful, well-written novel about two adults learning how to love each other.

Unlike many romance books, these characters sing off the page - they are real, they have thoughts and feelings outside of their eventual and inevitable love match. Set in the world of high tech, it would be an easy route to have stereotypes flooding the page, but Blum does none of this. She has created a story with three dimensional characters whose motivations are understood and not based solely on their sexual desires. A romance story for the thoughtful and sensible readers out there. Even the “antagonist” is multilayered and not motivated by the needs of the plot.

The story is diverting and engaging, and you root for the two lead characters to get together - but not just for the sexy parts. But because they truly seem to have a mutual respect and admiration for each other.

If you’re looking for a fun story with plenty of romance, but on the more thoughtful side, you should definitely Ship It!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I consider myself somewhat of a book snob. Any free time I have is spent reading. If a book doesn't catch my attention within the first few pages, I typically move on. I was completely captivated by this book. I read the entire thing in one sitting. The characters are relatable and the witty banter keeps the reader engaged. Sweet characters and some spicy interaction kept those pages turning!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the story and the characters. It was a really fast read, like I didn't want to put it down! I would love to see a sequel to see where this romance goes. Who doesn't love a good romance? Especially one that also makes you laugh. Can't wait for your next book!

[Christina Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️ | 1.5🌶️

This one was cute!! This is Evie’s debut novel and I received this as a mystery book when I purchased a Lavender Book Box (highly recommend those because the gifts were so cute!!)

As for the book, it was debut and therefore it had its issues. The main ones were:
-a lot of tech jargon that maybe didn’t need to be in there to feed the story
-the POV switched from first person for the FMC to third person for the MMC
-there were no chapter numbers or indication of POV switching which made it somewhat difficult to discern who was speaking
-very corny dialogue in the sense that I felt like I was reading about two millennials that use all the outdated lingo for things

Other than that, the book was a very quick read and I thought that the story/plot line was cute. The writing itself really wasn’t bad for a debut. Like I said, the POV and first/third switching was odd as well as the over explaining of certain situations and tech stuff, but I enjoyed the characters (despite their cringy dialogue). There is definitely potential for growth with this author!!

[Lavi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I work in tech so this was like a self insert dream

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t help but mimic what someone said about this book it’s smart, sexy and sweet. I’ve been in a major book slump and when I was asked to read the arc i jumped on it, it took me right out of the slump I was in! Definitely can’t wait to read more of her books ❤️

[Ana · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this one with all the great reviews it had, BUT the writing was weird. It’s switching between first person and third person narrative and all within the same chapter. Cute story idea and characters seem relatable, but could use some editing work. Meh…

[Jenna Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

First let me say that this author is probably the only one who can make computer science adorable. Second, if you haven’t read this book yet you need to because you’re going to just love Sarah and Nathan.

What starts as an adorable meet in a bar turns into a one night stand and then an awkward first day in a brand new office. This book has everything one would need to make their bookish heart happy. The bestest of bestest friends, adorable parents (although it’s a little angsty for a bit since one parent is not well), supportive siblings and banter for days!! Nathan and Sarah blossom together through this entire book and even tho his ex causes a bit of a hiccup they don’t let that stop them!

This plot is amazing and the book is beautifully written, the characters are fun and relatable and I was actually sad when it was over. One of the best reads I’ve read this year and for those of you who are just sick, sick, sick of the 3rd act breakup. There isn’t one!! But there is a HEA and book 2 is a continuation of that. Can’t wait to see what Pitch It has in store for Nathan and Sarah!

[Megan Bal · Rating 2 out of 5]

mismatching POVs

So usually a book is written in first person narration or third person, not BOTH. It took me a long time to wrap my head around and I still didn’t like it. Even with changing perspectives, usually it’s from each individual’s POV and the narrator is strictly “I”.
In addition to that, there were also a couple random time jumps. I’m all for dual timelines but not if there’s just 2 random jumps back with the rest of the story in chronological order.
There were also a lot of instances where I just wanted the MCs to get through one conversation without a double entendre lol. I just don’t think this one was for me.
Also, what was Instinqt?? All this about their tech start up and I still have no idea what it is/does

[Kleicher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! Romance is normally not a genre I’m into at all, but this book changed my mind! The characters are so well written I felt like I knew them and I found myself thinking about them long after I finished the book! I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I loved it!

[Lindsay Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so refreshing. It was like reading The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas and Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez. It was refreshing and I can't wait to read more books by this author 💕💕💕

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a delightful read. I literally could not put it down, except when I had to since I do have real life responsibilities to attend to. Still, when I had to put the book down (again, not because I wanted to!) the characters were just there, living rent-free in my head, because they were so well thought out and well written. Not your typical romance, at all. But still, there's plenty of romance and, ahem, "spice" to keep things interesting for the romance lovers out there.

[Ellen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This was a cute and sweet plot with very likeable characters, but the different perspectives (1st and 3rd person) confused me a little and was hard to get into. It was still an enjoyable read and I’m excited to read the next book to see what happens between the two main characters.

[Alice Bloomfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Such a light hearted joy and fun to have it set in the start up world. There were some clunky-er moments but also just found out this is a debut novel so not surprising. Looking forward to seeing this author develop.

[Katie Lipshultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading my first book of 2023 and I am IN LOVE with Sarah and Nathan.

I’ll admit I was slightly worried to read a book about a tech start-up, having zero knowledge and even less interest in such things, but this book was so much more. It was interesting, it was exciting… I found myself thinking of the characters when I wasn’t reading the book and though I was tired and ready for sleep over two hours ago I could. Not. Put. It. Down.

5 stars from me everyone. This is such a sweet romance. I highly recommend!

[Lindsay Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved Ship It. The characters were well developed and completely believable, as was the story. The steamy scenes were just right - not too over the top but definitely satisfying! I can't wait for the sequel and more from this author.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming, steamy romance read

I’ve had the pleasure of talking to Evie a few times now, and finally getting to read her book was a joy! I usually spend my time in fantasy worlds, or dark romances, so this was a very nice “palette cleanser” for me. If you’re looking for a story about normal people, someone you probably know, or are more likely to have a chance at knowing, Nathan and Sarah are probably those people and their story is very charming. I loved every second reading this book, and can’t wait for the next!

[Melissa Mulhern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! From the first page, I was hooked. The characters are relatable and interesting. It's the perfect mix of romance and sexy desire that kept me turning pages. I can't wait to read more about this couple! 😉

[Avital Gertner-Samet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This spicy romance novel is what I would describe as "Sexy but not sexist."

In general, women are depicted as strong, smart, talented, and successful. Even the protagonist's archnemesis is represented as such. During the steamy scenes that are peppered throughout the book, the woman's pleasure is carefully sought by her partner. Both are portrayed as equals, neither one dominates this relationship, and I find that refreshing.

The plot portrays the quintessential startup life. The highs, the lows, and the 'messy middle.' It includes VCs, product launches, and project management systems. This story felt familiar and resonated with me.

Additionally, the protagonists' personal stories of loss, grief and familial dedication pulled on my heart's strings.

The description and dialogue were so vivid that I could visualize the people and the places in my mind's eye as if I were watching a romance movie or a Netflix documentary on startup life in the Bay Area.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book and read it within 24 hours, despite being the first in its genre that I have ever read. I am looking forward to the next one.

[Megan Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am typically a mystery reader, but I wanted to give romance a try. This was a great read! I literally could not put it down. The characters were really well thought out and I felt like you could really feel what they were feeling.

Blum paid great attention to a lot of details about the characters, their jobs, and what they were doing. It provided a good story along with the romance. It is a great read and I would definitely recommend.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler free.. I absolutely loved this book. It was smart, sexy, and sweet! I am a romance lover and I zoomed right through this one. Fantastic first novel for a very talented author, I look forward to reading more from her!!

[Christy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can't continue. I just can't.

This book started out pretty strong. I liked the writing. And then it quickly took a baaad turn.

The female narrator tells her parts in a first person narrative. The male comes in in a third person narrative. It's jarring and uncomfortable and confusing every time it changes, which was by chapter. Labeling the chapter with who is narrating would help, but wait - then it starts going back and forth in the same chapter with just a little page break to separate the narrators.

It is entirely too confusing and not smooth at all. I would absolutely read this author again, as long as she didn't write a book like THIS. Where was her editor to tell her it was a bad idea? I feel bad, I think it's her debut novel, but it only can go up from here.

Ms. Blum, please PLEASE choose just one. And the correct answer for romance books is first person.

[Miranda · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me a little while to get into this book. Once I did I thought the story was cute and I loved their chemistry. The reason I’m giving it 3 stars is because half the time I had no clue what they were talking about when it came to their jobs. So I was a little lost. Other than that it was good. 👍

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review coming shortly.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Cute love story between Sarah and Nathan who met at a bar, spent the night together, and Sarah ran before Nathan woke up. He didn't understand and thought they had had a good time together. Both were surprised when they ran into each other again several weeks later. Nathan is an executive at the company where Sarah started working. Neither forgot that night and they start texting and having Zoom meetings.

She notices a blonde getting a little too close to Nathan on several occasions and learns she had dated him in college. Sarah is jealous and ignores Nathan. His family tells him he acted like an idiot. She flies to Seattle and meets Nathan's family. They have long talks and both realize they care deeply for each other and want their relationship to continue.

The company they both work at is sold and Nathan is out of a job but he decides to start his own business in the medical field and wants Sarah to come with him. Both realize their worlds are incomplete without the other.

Nathan had spent many years getting his education and was at a loss where to go next until his friend talks him into coming to work for him. He did and helped Kevin achieve his dream of having his startup succeed and selling it for a bunch of money. Now Nathan wants to achieve his dream that involves Sarah. He does not intend to lose her.

[Way-Way Pee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25. With Jewish MCs, I had planned to read Ship It during Hanukkah, but my family beach vacation had other plans for me, and I instead started this debut novel the last of the eight days and wrapped it up the last day of 2022.

This book had so many cute things that I thought were engaging. It is one of the first post-pandemic books I have read that openly acknowledges the adjustments we have made as a society in the last couple of years, whether it be telecommuting more, wearing masks, or testing before getting on public transportation. It also featured MCs in the tech-space with development and project management experience like my husband and I (hey, representation matters, and geeks deserve a love story, too!)

The story itself is a Meredith Grey / McDreamy situation where a one-night stand turns out to be between new co-workers including one being an executive level. There was some confusion on my part as the story flips between her 1st person and his 3rd person, but once you realize she is not referring to herself in 3rd person, it makes more sense. :D

I look forward to meeting the author at The Steamy Lit Con (formerly The Rom Con) next August!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

(4.5/5 if I could do .5) This book was so cute! It’s told from the POV of both Nathan and Sarah. Evie did an excellent job creating likable characters. Both Nathan and Sarah talk about other aspects of their lives instead of just always thinking and talking about the other. By doing this, you really get to know and love the characters.

Each character was engaging, fun and relatable on their own, but the scenes when they were together showed a mutual chemistry, respect, and witty banter. This book has more than just Nathan and Sarah - it focuses on friendship, love, family and supportive relationships. The only part of this book I didn’t love (hence 4.5/5) was that the story was told in different persons (1st and 3rd). This kind of confused me a bit in the beginning until I got used to it. Though I would have preferred to keep it all the same tense, the story itself was adorable, the characters were relatable and the book left the reader wanting to know more about Nathan and Sarah! I’m looking forward to reading more from Evie!

[Melissa Marini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick-witted Sarah and brilliant Nathan are a match made in Silicon Valley. While I know next to nothing about technology startups, I found this to be a fresh take on a romance novel. I enjoyed this love story thoroughly especially the quirks that seem to relate to the technology world. There is a lot of technology startup lingo mentioned that I did look up just to have a better understanding of what I was reading. Both main characters are intellectuals with deep emotional understanding. Misunderstanding does lead to some bumps, but without giving too much away, I love how they work through their issues. There is a happy ending at the end of this novel. I do wish we got true insight into Nathan's perspective though. We get a third person perspective when it comes to him, but I wish it was a first person narration like Sarah received. The changing of perspectives is definitely unique, but not hard to dive into. Overall, this novel is enjoyable. I am a fan of their 'ship!

[Jen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a cute enough story but had a few problems that made this hard to fully enjoy. Sarah’s POV chapters were in first person and then Nathan’s POV chapters were in third person. I kept thinking Nathan was talking about himself awkwardly in third person before realizing the author was making a choice.

The timeline skips also kept taking me out of the story. Something big would happen and then all of a sudden we were “9 months ago” so we could get Nathan’s POV from that time period until current. It was super disjointing.

And the most egregious was Nathan himself. He’s the kind of dude who everything happens TO him not because of him, his ex is the crazy one despite him leading her on, and he isn’t even the one who grovels / makes a grand gesture when he’s the one who done fucked up. He’s giving Tom Schwartz vibes - iykyk. I want my fictional MMC better than this.

[Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute, dual pov, one night stand turned office romance lol.
I enjoyed the story. It was a little slow moving overall, but I knew going it that there was a sequel so I expected the plot to move a little slower than your typical standalone romance.
The MMC POV was witten in third person while the FMC was written in first. While it took me a little bit to get used to, ultimately I enjoyed the uniqueness that brought to the reading experience.
This story took place at some kind of a tech startup, and although I didn't fully understand the business, the details didn't prove super relevant and my ignorance did not take away from the story at all.
I loved how goofy both main characters were, but I wish I would have connected with them just a little bit more.
My book club is reading this and Pitch It, so I'm looking forward to seeing what's next for Sarah and Nathan.