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TT: Full Throttle
Scott has one to fulfill his late father's dream of racing in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Races, the most dangerous and prestigious motorcycle road race in the world. Far from their home in British Columbia and still reeling from a recent tragedy, Scott and his roommates-turned-pit crew have only five days during Practice Week to secure a spot in the TT. Scott must qualify with a fast enough time or he doesn't race. But the pressure of working with a rookie crew on the potentially lethal course puts Scott's safety and his friendships on the line. As race day draws near he and his friends will have to swallow their pride to help Scott achieve his dream. This is a high-octane motorcycle racing novel for reluctant teen readers. Watch the thrilling book trailer
264 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Winters
5 books23 followersNICOLE WINTERS is the author of TT: FULL THROTTLE, and coming October 13, THE JOCK AND THE FAT CHICK, a romantic-comedy debut: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
As a C average student with a learning disability, Nicole was herself a reluctant reader. That changed when, at the age of twelve, she was assigned S. E. Hinton’s classic YA novel The Outsiders. After devouring the book in a single sitting, Nicole came to understand how the right story can capture the imagination and enthusiasm of anyone – reluctant reader or otherwise. From there, Nicole gravitated towards tales of adventure, suspense and horror. The elements she loved in those stories are carried into her own work which combines fast-paced action-adventure with teens in realistic and believable situations. Her works focus on human relationships and the personal journeys of the characters, creating stories she hopes will excite and inspire young readers.
Nicole enjoys travelling the world, but calls Toronto home and is currently at work on her next novel, The Jock and the Fat Chick.
As a C average student with a learning disability, Nicole was herself a reluctant reader. That changed when, at the age of twelve, she was assigned S. E. Hinton’s classic YA novel The Outsiders. After devouring the book in a single sitting, Nicole came to understand how the right story can capture the imagination and enthusiasm of anyone – reluctant reader or otherwise. From there, Nicole gravitated towards tales of adventure, suspense and horror. The elements she loved in those stories are carried into her own work which combines fast-paced action-adventure with teens in realistic and believable situations. Her works focus on human relationships and the personal journeys of the characters, creating stories she hopes will excite and inspire young readers.
Nicole enjoys travelling the world, but calls Toronto home and is currently at work on her next novel, The Jock and the Fat Chick.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 26, 2013
I was lucky to get to read this book early. Nicole Winters is a terrific writer with strong narrative skills and a great ear for dialogue.
April 22, 2014
Scott’s dream is to race in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) Race. TT Full Throttle grabbed me from its opening lines declaring BC the best backyard in the world, with “Endless roads overflowing with chicanes, hairpins, and switchbacks [that] weave their way through the Rockies and fold back on themselves like ribbon candy.”
Nicole Winters’s characters are raw and real. The depth of her research into motorcycle racing is evident in the descriptions, thoughts, and emotions from Scott’s point of view as he rides a course. I didn't simply see the story unfold like a movie in my head, I felt like I was right there next to the characters, hearing them breathe, feeling the tension and adrenalin. For example, on pages 178 and 179, Scott is about to head off on his first practice ride on the TT race course:
Fifteen minutes to go. Heart’s pounding like it is going to burst through my ribs and fly down the track ahead of me. Sixty kilometres of open road at racing speeds.
…
“How you doing, Scott?” Mags shouts.
Like I want to puke.
“Good,” I holler back. I swing my leg over the seat and slide down into the vinyl groove and this out-of-body sensation hits me, catapulting me out of my skin so it’s like I’m watching myself from two feet back. I have to tell myself to breathe as I climb my way back into my body.
TT Full Throttle is a high-speed novel totally worth the read.
Nicole Winters’s characters are raw and real. The depth of her research into motorcycle racing is evident in the descriptions, thoughts, and emotions from Scott’s point of view as he rides a course. I didn't simply see the story unfold like a movie in my head, I felt like I was right there next to the characters, hearing them breathe, feeling the tension and adrenalin. For example, on pages 178 and 179, Scott is about to head off on his first practice ride on the TT race course:
Fifteen minutes to go. Heart’s pounding like it is going to burst through my ribs and fly down the track ahead of me. Sixty kilometres of open road at racing speeds.
…
“How you doing, Scott?” Mags shouts.
Like I want to puke.
“Good,” I holler back. I swing my leg over the seat and slide down into the vinyl groove and this out-of-body sensation hits me, catapulting me out of my skin so it’s like I’m watching myself from two feet back. I have to tell myself to breathe as I climb my way back into my body.
TT Full Throttle is a high-speed novel totally worth the read.
January 12, 2014
I received an advanced copy of TT: Full Throttle from Netgalley.com.
This is not a book I would normally have chosen for myself, however, I was quickly drawn into the story. The book centers around Scott and his group of friends, all of whom are motorcycle enthusiasts - racers, mechanics or just fans. Scott and another of his friends are preparing for the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Races. As Scott says on page 10, "The race is real too. Go look it up." I did, and found that I was really interested in the goings on of this book. The characters are well developed, and the author does a good job of creating a real group of characters. None of the events in the book felt contrived, and in the end you find yourself rooting for Scott just as surely as if you were watching his race on tv. The book is well researched and well executed. I will be purchasing this book to add to my classroom collection.
This is not a book I would normally have chosen for myself, however, I was quickly drawn into the story. The book centers around Scott and his group of friends, all of whom are motorcycle enthusiasts - racers, mechanics or just fans. Scott and another of his friends are preparing for the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Races. As Scott says on page 10, "The race is real too. Go look it up." I did, and found that I was really interested in the goings on of this book. The characters are well developed, and the author does a good job of creating a real group of characters. None of the events in the book felt contrived, and in the end you find yourself rooting for Scott just as surely as if you were watching his race on tv. The book is well researched and well executed. I will be purchasing this book to add to my classroom collection.
March 13, 2014
I checked this book out because I'm always looking for new books for the reluctant readers (or boys) in our library. I really enjoyed reading this book. It felt like The Art of Racing in the Rain for younger readers. While it's not told from a dog's point of view, the theme of basing life lessons on lessons learned from racing are there. Similarly, I was at a loss for all the technical talk of working on racing bikes and what the races are like, but it didn't really matter. I was still pulled right into the story and into the excitement of Scott's team as they near the big race.
While I don't think this book would work at our library, it might work at other branches.
I received an advanced e-book copy provided by Netgalley for honest reviews.
While I don't think this book would work at our library, it might work at other branches.
I received an advanced e-book copy provided by Netgalley for honest reviews.
December 29, 2013
What a wild ride this book is!
My heart was pounding and my hands shaking from the first page to the last.
I love motorcycles, but even if you know nothing about them, or don't even like them, this book will keep you reading.
Congratulations, Nicole, it's a fantastic book!
My heart was pounding and my hands shaking from the first page to the last.
I love motorcycles, but even if you know nothing about them, or don't even like them, this book will keep you reading.
Congratulations, Nicole, it's a fantastic book!
August 31, 2023
This was a super cute and informative book. I feel like I came away knowing a lot more about the race, and still enjoyed the overall story.
July 22, 2014
Rating:
5 of 5 stars (outstanding)
Review:
The Tourist Trophy (TT) Race on the Isle of Man, one of the premier motorcycle racing events, was the dream of Scott and his father. Now Scott has to attempt to qualify for this race without his father, who died before realizing that dream. How Scott continues on this quest, not only for himself but also for his father, is the story told in this outstanding young adult (YA) book by Nicole Winters.
What sets this book apart from many other YA novels is that the focus of the story is about the sport of motorcycle racing and the course for the TT race. Many critics of this genre complain about too much “teenage angst” that takes away from the main story. That is certainly NOT the case with this book.
Yes, there are conflicts with each of the characters. Scott is wondering how he can possibly qualify for the race. Maggie, or Mags as she is called in the book, loves working on bikes and wants to be a top-notch mechanic, but her parents have other ideas. Scott has feelings for Mags, but wonders if she feels the same and whether he should tell her. Dean has demons from his past he wants to overcome. All three of them are mourning the loss of their friend Neil, who wanted to travel to the Isle with Scott for the race. They are important to the story, but not written in a manner that neither detracts from the race nor is over the top in dramatics.
A reader does not have to be a fan of the sport or even have much knowledge to enjoy this book. Winters does a wonderful job of not only explaining the technical aspects of the bikes, but also her description of the course. The scenes in which Scott is on the track, whether in practice or during a qualifying run, are superbly written. The reader not only experiences the thrill of the sharp turns and fast straight sections, but also gets inside Scott’s mind as to what he is thinking about at that moment.
This book can be read by anyone of any age and be enjoyed. It is one that I would recommend for anyone who simply loves a good story or if one wants to learn more about motorcycle racing. Ms. Winters did her homework on the topic and this story is one that shows that hard work can result in an outstanding product.
I wish to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Did I skim?
No – I made sure to devour every word of this story.
Did I feel connected to the characters?
Yes.
Pace of the story:
Excellent – the main story of Scott’s attempt to race in the TT moves along and is always the focus. The side stories of each characters other issues are woven nicely into the main story without becoming a distraction.
Positives:
There are so many. While the story is marketed at a YA story, it is a great read for any age. I felt the best aspect of the book was the outstanding research into racing and the course that Ms. Winters did in preparing to write this book. The details of particular marks and turns on the course are illustrated in a way that the reader will think he or she is actually there on the course.
Negatives:
There aren’t many, whether it was for the story, characters, editing, flow, or the research into racing or the TT course. All aspects of this book are well done.
Do I recommend?
Yes – for anyone, any age who simply enjoys a good book.
5 of 5 stars (outstanding)
Review:
The Tourist Trophy (TT) Race on the Isle of Man, one of the premier motorcycle racing events, was the dream of Scott and his father. Now Scott has to attempt to qualify for this race without his father, who died before realizing that dream. How Scott continues on this quest, not only for himself but also for his father, is the story told in this outstanding young adult (YA) book by Nicole Winters.
What sets this book apart from many other YA novels is that the focus of the story is about the sport of motorcycle racing and the course for the TT race. Many critics of this genre complain about too much “teenage angst” that takes away from the main story. That is certainly NOT the case with this book.
Yes, there are conflicts with each of the characters. Scott is wondering how he can possibly qualify for the race. Maggie, or Mags as she is called in the book, loves working on bikes and wants to be a top-notch mechanic, but her parents have other ideas. Scott has feelings for Mags, but wonders if she feels the same and whether he should tell her. Dean has demons from his past he wants to overcome. All three of them are mourning the loss of their friend Neil, who wanted to travel to the Isle with Scott for the race. They are important to the story, but not written in a manner that neither detracts from the race nor is over the top in dramatics.
A reader does not have to be a fan of the sport or even have much knowledge to enjoy this book. Winters does a wonderful job of not only explaining the technical aspects of the bikes, but also her description of the course. The scenes in which Scott is on the track, whether in practice or during a qualifying run, are superbly written. The reader not only experiences the thrill of the sharp turns and fast straight sections, but also gets inside Scott’s mind as to what he is thinking about at that moment.
This book can be read by anyone of any age and be enjoyed. It is one that I would recommend for anyone who simply loves a good story or if one wants to learn more about motorcycle racing. Ms. Winters did her homework on the topic and this story is one that shows that hard work can result in an outstanding product.
I wish to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Did I skim?
No – I made sure to devour every word of this story.
Did I feel connected to the characters?
Yes.
Pace of the story:
Excellent – the main story of Scott’s attempt to race in the TT moves along and is always the focus. The side stories of each characters other issues are woven nicely into the main story without becoming a distraction.
Positives:
There are so many. While the story is marketed at a YA story, it is a great read for any age. I felt the best aspect of the book was the outstanding research into racing and the course that Ms. Winters did in preparing to write this book. The details of particular marks and turns on the course are illustrated in a way that the reader will think he or she is actually there on the course.
Negatives:
There aren’t many, whether it was for the story, characters, editing, flow, or the research into racing or the TT course. All aspects of this book are well done.
Do I recommend?
Yes – for anyone, any age who simply enjoys a good book.
March 5, 2014
5 adrenaline pumping stars!
I loved this book! Written as a reluctant reader but recommended for anyone with a closet adrenaline junky hiding inside them.
I am so excited to tell everyone about this book! I'd love to have a kick ass review to go with how kick ass this book is but I doubt my words will do it justice. Here goes anyway....
The first thing I'd like to address with this book is that while it is written for reluctant readers it is definitely not the watered down, dumbed down, skimmed over, easy text or any other of the typical stereotypes people may think of when they see 'Reluctant Reader'. TT: Full Throttle has fully developed characters; ones that you truly get to know, and whether you love them or hate them, you want/need to know what is going to happen to them. The story line is believable, perfectly paced, and action packed. I literally did not want to put it down.
Nicole Winters drops you straight into the action from page one where we're thrown right into a road race with main character Scott and a few of his motorcycle racing friends. Winters has an amazing ability to make you feel like you are literally there, on that bike with Scott. Her imagery is spot on. She had me holding my breath around every turn, gasping at near misses, and wiping at my tears.
I really want to recommend this book to everyone, but I know that sports type books are not everyone's thing. But I will say this.... If you are at all inclined to enjoy a book that's told from a male point of view, thoroughly and impeccably researched, told at a fast and fun pace, action packed, with a little romance, and characters you will be completely invested in, you will enjoy this book!
Now, for those looking at this book as a reluctant reader for teens....
I truly think this is a fantastic read, especially for a guy. But I think girls might enjoy it as well. It is pretty heavy in technical language but you move quickly through it. I never felt bogged down by vocabulary or tech terms. It is done so well that I actually learned a lot and was interested in everything they did.
There are a few warnings for the younger teen....
Now - I'm the first to defend the fact that you sometimes have to use more mature content or characters to hold the attention of a reluctant reader. The subject matter has to be meaty enough to capture and hold their interest. The characters need to be relatable as well. Here Winters has used characters that are 18-23 years old, therefore there are a few more mature parts, i.e. drinking and smoking. I do not feel this was done in excess or to sensationalize, more like it was just to keep Scott and the other characters real and relatable.
Congratulations Nicole Winters on a fabulous first book! I will definitely be on the lookout for more!
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley
I loved this book! Written as a reluctant reader but recommended for anyone with a closet adrenaline junky hiding inside them.
I am so excited to tell everyone about this book! I'd love to have a kick ass review to go with how kick ass this book is but I doubt my words will do it justice. Here goes anyway....
The first thing I'd like to address with this book is that while it is written for reluctant readers it is definitely not the watered down, dumbed down, skimmed over, easy text or any other of the typical stereotypes people may think of when they see 'Reluctant Reader'. TT: Full Throttle has fully developed characters; ones that you truly get to know, and whether you love them or hate them, you want/need to know what is going to happen to them. The story line is believable, perfectly paced, and action packed. I literally did not want to put it down.
Nicole Winters drops you straight into the action from page one where we're thrown right into a road race with main character Scott and a few of his motorcycle racing friends. Winters has an amazing ability to make you feel like you are literally there, on that bike with Scott. Her imagery is spot on. She had me holding my breath around every turn, gasping at near misses, and wiping at my tears.
I really want to recommend this book to everyone, but I know that sports type books are not everyone's thing. But I will say this.... If you are at all inclined to enjoy a book that's told from a male point of view, thoroughly and impeccably researched, told at a fast and fun pace, action packed, with a little romance, and characters you will be completely invested in, you will enjoy this book!
Now, for those looking at this book as a reluctant reader for teens....
I truly think this is a fantastic read, especially for a guy. But I think girls might enjoy it as well. It is pretty heavy in technical language but you move quickly through it. I never felt bogged down by vocabulary or tech terms. It is done so well that I actually learned a lot and was interested in everything they did.
There are a few warnings for the younger teen....
Now - I'm the first to defend the fact that you sometimes have to use more mature content or characters to hold the attention of a reluctant reader. The subject matter has to be meaty enough to capture and hold their interest. The characters need to be relatable as well. Here Winters has used characters that are 18-23 years old, therefore there are a few more mature parts, i.e. drinking and smoking. I do not feel this was done in excess or to sensationalize, more like it was just to keep Scott and the other characters real and relatable.
Congratulations Nicole Winters on a fabulous first book! I will definitely be on the lookout for more!
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley
October 29, 2015
I first met the author at a Motorcycle Show in Toronto in March and had never heard of the book before, after striking up a conversation with her I knew I needed a copy. Since then I have read the book at least 15 times and I'm thinking about starting it over again. It's not everyday that you find a motorcycle book that well written. I have recommended this book to all of my racing friends as well as my non racing friends just to let them get an idea of what is it that I do. this is a perfect novel for anyone as it has a little bit of everything, tragedy, romance and of course - the big one - racing. amazing book by a great author!
November 16, 2013
This book was absolutely amazing and I won it in a first reads giveaway. I'm not up to date on motocross technology but I am glad to say I understood the book. I have always loved racing and motorcycles and this book put both of them together. This author did a really great job and I found myself rooting for the main character which is rare. I was absorbed into this book and couldn't put it down.
January 10, 2014
Disclosure: I won a copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads giveaway
The story is about a group of friends/acquaintances and various obstacles they encounter in the lead up to and during a major motorcycle race. It is told from the viewpoint of Canadian Scott Saunders, who wants to travel with his amateur pit crew to another country to race in Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races (TT Races). The font choice made it easy to read and the motorcycle theme would appeal to young males.
The story is about a group of friends/acquaintances and various obstacles they encounter in the lead up to and during a major motorcycle race. It is told from the viewpoint of Canadian Scott Saunders, who wants to travel with his amateur pit crew to another country to race in Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races (TT Races). The font choice made it easy to read and the motorcycle theme would appeal to young males.
November 29, 2013
As I started this book, I was not expecting to like it, rather I was previewing to see if male students would enjoy it. I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy reading this book, and would recommend it to young readers.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews