Book Review

Kicking the Tyres
Author: Michael J Dixon

“Kicking the Tyres, his first novel, charts the struggle of a concussed entrepreneur to prove a revolutionary racecar engine. Set in California against a backdrop of imminent bankruptcy, it explores the risks of fast horses, fast motoring … and faster women.”

This, the author’s debut novel, is for the greater part an enjoyable read.
Not knowing much about horses, motoring or women would not disadvantage the reader, as the book is written understandably and with little jargon. Conversely I imagine it is not too condescending for those in the know.

At certain times I did rather feel I was reading a pitch for a Hollywood movie, (most particularly at the somewhat incongruous Mrs Doubtfire moment and the dramatic stormy rescue).
If aiming for screen though, perhaps it would be more entertaining if the bitch were more of a bitch - unbeknownst to the main character chap, naturally.

Where I agree that the horses and motoring may be fast; I found the women in this book fairly average …which is fine, except one was lured with the promise of “women even faster”!

The story ends, post some pretty exciting drama, with an unexpected twist. I wonder if the author was thinking ahead, re a sequel. As the engine around which the book centres is a genuine work in progress, we may get to hear about its next episodes?

Overall; 7/10 A good read I’d say.

Reviewed by Genevieve Palmer.

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