Dashing All the Way Summary, Characters and Themes
Dashing All The Way by Chelsea Curto is a holiday romance that blends comedic timing, sizzling attraction, and genuine emotional connection in a unique and unexpected pairing. The novel centers on Margo Andrews, a spirited 24-year-old teacher seeking empowerment and closure after a breakup with her ex-boyfriend, Jeremy.
Her journey to prove herself leads her to an ambitious goal—running a half marathon—and to an accidental, yet electrifying, meeting with Finn Mathieson, a 40-year-old paramedic who just so happens to be Jeremy’s father. What begins as a bold attempt at personal growth becomes a transformative relationship for both Margo and Finn, as their physical chemistry blossoms into a sincere bond built on mutual respect, trust, and laughter.
Summary
Margo Andrews, reeling from a stinging breakup with her ex-boyfriend Jeremy, sets out to do something he arrogantly claimed she couldn’t—complete a half marathon. After training diligently for twelve weeks, with her best friend Katarina cheering her on, Margo crosses the finish line of the Jingle Jangle Half Marathon with pride.
Her moment of victory is short-lived, however, as exhaustion and dehydration cause her to collapse. Fortunately, she’s caught in the arms of a charming paramedic—Finn Mathieson.
Finn, witty and calm under pressure, treats Margo with equal parts professionalism and teasing humor. The two feel an instant spark, though Margo initially doesn’t realize he is Jeremy’s father.
The situation becomes even more tangled when a TikTok video of Finn catching her at the race goes viral. Margo and Katarina jokingly gush over the “hot paramedic,” never expecting to see him again.
But that same night, in a bar decorated for Christmas, fate intervenes—Margo literally bumps into Finn, and their banter resumes, more flirtatious and charged than ever.
Once Finn admits he knows who Margo is, and she learns his connection to Jeremy, they both hesitate but ultimately choose not to walk away. What starts as a seemingly reckless decision turns into a meaningful night.
Finn proves to be attentive and deeply considerate, checking in on Margo’s boundaries while making her feel truly desired and seen. Their shared night at Finn’s home is not only physically intense but also emotionally significant, offering both characters a moment of vulnerability and connection they hadn’t expected.
The aftermath doesn’t cool their interest. Margo discovers Finn’s unusual side gig—he’s an audiobook narrator for steamy romance novels.
Instead of reacting with embarrassment, she becomes intrigued. Their chemistry deepens during a recording session that blurs the line between fantasy and reality, and ends in a creatively erotic moment involving a Christmas ornament.
Yet even amid the heat, Finn’s care and attentiveness never falter, and Margo’s confidence in her own desires grows.
As the relationship shifts from a one-night stand to something more substantial, both Margo and Finn begin opening up. Margo shares the challenges of her job as a third-grade teacher, where she deals with everything from burnt-out colleagues to students facing hardships.
Finn talks about being a young father, his amicable co-parenting arrangement, and how running helps him maintain balance in life. These conversations help them see beyond the physical and into each other’s emotional worlds.
Margo finds herself running not out of revenge anymore, but because Finn makes it meaningful and fun. He’s encouraging, keeps her safe with tips and apps, and is always present—with water bottles, coffee, or words of support.
Their bond continues to grow, even as they laugh about their age difference and the awkwardness of their origin story. Finn’s consistent kindness, along with his appreciation of Margo’s ambition and resilience, builds a foundation of trust between them.
Their sexual relationship remains playful and passionate, with moments that are both outrageous and intimate. One particularly daring encounter happens in Finn’s office, just before Jeremy unexpectedly drops by.
The close call only heightens the thrill and exposes how comfortable Margo has become in her skin and in Finn’s presence. She no longer second-guesses herself or tries to fit someone else’s expectations.
With Finn, she can just be.
As their connection deepens, Finn surprises Margo with a thoughtful Christmas gift: a framed version of her half marathon bib and medal. Moved by the gesture, she admits her growing feelings.
They spend Christmas Eve together in a cozy, sensual, and loving atmosphere filled with cookie baking, meaningful conversation, and genuine joy. On Christmas Day, Finn asks Margo to attend his family dinner, a bold move given Jeremy’s inevitable reaction.
At the gathering, Jeremy’s anger erupts, but Finn calmly and firmly stands by Margo. She gets closure from the confrontation, thanking Jeremy for pushing her toward a better life and finding the unexpected silver lining—Finn.
Their public commitment to each other marks a turning point, as they stop pretending this is temporary and start acknowledging the possibility of something lasting.
Almost a year later, their love story reaches a full-circle moment at the New York City Marathon. Finn finishes third, and as he reaches the final stretch, he stops to kiss Margo and proposes with a ring he’s been planning to offer for months.
The moment, captured on TikTok just like their first encounter, reflects the full arc of their relationship—from an impulsive act of self-improvement to a life-changing romance grounded in love, respect, and laughter.
Dashing All The Way ends with a triumphant celebration of growth, both personal and romantic. Margo, once heartbroken and underestimated, finds not just a partner, but a life that thrills and fulfills her.
And Finn, steady and kind, finds excitement and meaning in a woman who challenges and cherishes him. Their love story, though unconventional, proves that the best things often come from the most unexpected beginnings.
Characters
Margo Andrews
Margo Andrews is the heart of Dashing All The Way, a 24-year-old woman whose initial motivation to run a half marathon stems from a place of spite—determined to prove her ex-boyfriend Jeremy wrong. What begins as a mission of revenge gradually blossoms into a journey of empowerment, resilience, and unexpected love.
Margo is portrayed as witty, stubborn, passionate, and refreshingly self-aware. Her sarcasm acts as a shield, but underneath lies vulnerability and a fierce desire to reclaim her agency after a toxic breakup.
Her growth is profound: from pushing through physical exhaustion on race day to confronting emotional barriers with Finn. Her confidence and sensuality come into full bloom through their relationship, allowing her to embrace her desires and voice without shame.
Professionally, she is a third-grade teacher, a role that grounds her character in compassion and real-world responsibility. Margo’s evolution—both as a runner and a lover—is marked by an increasing emotional openness, as she allows herself to fall for Finn despite the social taboos surrounding their bond.
By the end, she’s not only healed from her past but fully steps into a joyful and affirming future, capped off with a public proposal that celebrates her journey in full.
Finn Mathieson
Finn Mathieson is a captivating blend of confidence, humor, and quiet sensitivity. At 40, he is both a devoted paramedic and a secret narrator of erotic audiobooks—a surprising duality that adds layers to his character.
As Jeremy’s father, his initial interactions with Margo carry the weight of awkward potential, yet he never lets that diminish the respect, attentiveness, and emotional intelligence he brings into their relationship. Finn’s appeal lies not just in his physicality and dominant sexuality, but in his unwavering care.
Whether he’s catching Margo as she collapses at the finish line or cooking her breakfast post-hookup, he consistently prioritizes her well-being and comfort. His restraint and clear communication in intimate moments show a deep-rooted maturity.
Moreover, Finn’s emotional availability is striking; he shares his co-parenting experiences, opens up about his past, and affirms his evolving feelings for Margo. He is far more than the archetypal “hot older man”—he’s a loving father, a man unafraid to be silly, tender, or vulnerable, and someone genuinely excited by the new possibilities Margo introduces into his life.
Jeremy
Jeremy, though largely a peripheral character, serves as the catalyst for the novel’s events. His dismissiveness and condescension toward Margo post-breakup ignite her journey toward self-improvement.
Jeremy is emblematic of toxic masculinity—immature, self-absorbed, and unaware of the emotional damage he inflicts. His reaction to Margo and Finn’s relationship at the family Christmas dinner is petty and dramatic, highlighting his emotional underdevelopment in contrast to both protagonists.
However, in a surprising turn, he becomes the unintentional matchmaker, indirectly leading Margo to the greatest love of her life. He exists more as a foil than a fleshed-out character, reinforcing the emotional growth and self-respect that Margo finds with Finn.
Katarina
Katarina is Margo’s best friend and emotional cheerleader. She injects humor, sass, and unwavering loyalty into the narrative, often providing both comic relief and heartfelt support.
As a pacing partner during the half marathon and an enthusiastic confidante during Margo’s romantic escapades, Katarina serves as the grounding force in Margo’s life. Her presence is not merely decorative—she reinforces themes of female solidarity and emotional honesty.
Her excitement over Finn, her curiosity about their budding relationship, and her support during moments of doubt all help Margo articulate her feelings more clearly. Katarina’s authenticity and protective energy contrast beautifully with the self-serving attitudes of past male figures in Margo’s life.
Finn’s Ex and Family
Though Finn’s ex-wife remains a largely background presence, her amicable co-parenting relationship with Finn offers insight into his character. It suggests emotional maturity and a history of making peace with past mistakes.
Their civil dynamic emphasizes that Finn is capable of sustaining meaningful connections and navigating complex emotional terrain with grace. This context adds credibility to his ability to build something real and lasting with Margo, despite the unconventional start to their relationship.
The presence of Finn’s broader family during the Christmas dinner scene adds tension but also becomes a litmus test for his loyalty and commitment, both of which he demonstrates unflinchingly in front of Jeremy and the rest of the family.
Themes
Emotional Growth Through Physical Endurance
Margo’s journey begins with a desire for revenge—a common but often shallow motivator. However, as she commits herself to the grueling process of training for a half marathon, her original motivation transforms into something far more meaningful.
Her body becomes a vessel for her emotional transformation, and her physical strides mark her emotional resilience. What starts as an attempt to prove her ex wrong morphs into an assertion of personal strength.
The discipline required for long-distance running teaches Margo consistency, patience, and inner fortitude. She learns to listen to her body and trust her instincts, especially on race day when the combination of nerves, exhaustion, and determination tests her limits.
Her ultimate collapse at the finish line isn’t a failure; it’s a physical manifestation of how deeply committed she was to the challenge. Finn’s presence at that moment isn’t just about rescue—it’s symbolic of support arriving precisely when she’s proven she can stand (or fall) on her own terms.
As her training continues with Finn’s involvement, running becomes less about the past and more about self-care and personal pride. The sport ceases to be a weapon and instead becomes a sanctuary—a space where Margo learns what she is capable of when she lets go of bitterness and embraces purpose.
Sexual Agency and Consensual Intimacy
One of the most daring and refreshing aspects of Dashing All The Way is its unapologetic portrayal of female sexual agency. Margo is not a passive recipient of male attention or desire; she actively initiates, explores, and enjoys her sexuality on her own terms.
Her chemistry with Finn is rooted not only in physical attraction but also in the trust that allows them to engage in playful and deeply intimate acts. Their sexual encounters are defined by mutual respect and clear communication.
Finn consistently checks in with her, listens, and adapts to her comfort. Even when their activities are bold and experimental—like the recording session with the Christmas ornament—there is always an underlying current of care and emotional connection.
Margo feels safe, seen, and desired in ways that redefine her understanding of pleasure. She no longer seeks validation through performance or comparison, as she might have in her past relationship with Jeremy.
Instead, she finds liberation in being with someone who encourages her to be loud, demanding, and completely herself. Their bedroom becomes a space of healing, where eroticism and tenderness coexist without contradiction.
The narrative doesn’t shy away from the explicit; instead, it uses intimacy as a tool for character development and emotional revelation.
Intergenerational Relationship Complexity
The romance between Margo and Finn is fraught with emotional landmines, not least of which is the fact that Finn is her ex-boyfriend’s father. This setup could easily be played for shock value, but Dashing All The Way handles it with nuanced emotional depth.
The age difference, the familial connection to Jeremy, and their differing life stages all create tension. Yet, it’s in navigating these complications that the characters reveal their emotional intelligence.
Finn is not a stand-in for youth or a rebellion against Jeremy—he is a fully developed character with his own vulnerabilities, history, and regrets. His early fatherhood, amicable co-parenting, and career as a paramedic ground him in experience and maturity.
Margo is not chasing a father figure, nor is she acting out of emotional immaturity. She enters the relationship with curiosity and cautious optimism, grappling with the ethics of her choices without letting shame dictate them.
When Jeremy eventually discovers the relationship, the emotional fallout is explosive but necessary. Finn’s defense of Margo during the family dinner isn’t just about love—it’s about accountability, loyalty, and honesty.
The story suggests that while unconventional relationships can be difficult, they are not inherently invalid. What matters is mutual respect, transparency, and the courage to confront discomfort for the sake of something meaningful.
Redefining Love and Self-Worth After Toxicity
Jeremy’s dismissal and emotional detachment left Margo feeling inadequate and small. His condescension about her abilities—especially when it came to her athletic goals—served as a catalyst for her initial transformation, but it’s Finn’s consistent emotional validation that truly reshapes her understanding of love.
Through Finn’s actions, Margo begins to see that love is not about performance or meeting someone else’s standards. It’s about being appreciated for who you are, not who you could become.
Finn sees her not as someone to fix or possess, but as someone to celebrate and support. From carrying water on runs to creating a personalized Christmas gift, he shows that emotional labor and thoughtfulness are the foundation of real love.
Margo, in turn, stops viewing herself through the lens of Jeremy’s disapproval. She begins to define her worth through her own eyes, and eventually affirms it publicly when she confronts Jeremy and thanks him—for being the wrong person who led her to the right one.
The narrative charts her progression from self-doubt to self-assurance, showing that healing isn’t a singular moment but a series of affirmations, both private and shared. By the time Finn proposes, Margo’s “yes” is not just about romance—it’s an embrace of a life she chose, nurtured, and deserves.
Public Identity and Digital Validation
The presence of social media, especially TikTok, adds a modern layer to Margo and Finn’s story. From the viral video of her race collapse to the final marathon proposal, digital visibility plays a significant role in how their relationship unfolds publicly.
But unlike many stories that criticize or exaggerate the impact of online life, Dashing All The Way treats it as both amusing and affirming. The TikTok moments are not just gimmicks; they act as symbolic bookmarks in Margo’s journey—from collapse to triumph, from viral flirtation to digital engagement.
Public acknowledgment in a social media era becomes more than vanity—it becomes part of one’s identity narrative. For Margo, the comments, likes, and replays validate what she already knows: she has grown, endured, and earned her joy.
Finn’s public proposal isn’t just performative; it’s a thoughtful gesture aligned with their story and what matters to Margo. These moments underline how visibility, when rooted in authenticity and celebration, can enhance rather than diminish intimacy.
It suggests that love stories, like people, don’t have to hide to be sincere. They can be bold, funny, a little messy—and still deeply real.