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Face the Music #1
Take Me Down: Face the Music
Kennedy
Hello, my name is Kennedy, and I’m an addict.
Pills, booze—you name it, I tried it. I wasn’t exactly particular about it. Now, I’m two years sober, in a new country, and looking for a fresh start.
But my noisy, upstairs neighbor is testing the limits of my sobriety. He’s either watching an adult film marathon, harboring a hooker, or performing an exorcism in his flat.
Regardless, I don’t need beer goggles to see that Silas Graves is the finest bloke I’ve ever laid eyes on.
Silas
Hello, my name is Silas, and I’m going blind.
As a struggling actor, I’ve taken a lot of crummy roles. But this is one role I’m not ready to fill.
So, nightly I swipe right or left, because in my bedroom, I never feel blind. The lights are out, and it’s a level playing field. And oh, how I love pretending to be fully sighted.
Honestly, I deserve an Emmy.
But truth be told, all of this has left me feeling nothing but empty.
Maybe it’s time to stop hiding and chase after what I want.
And what I want is the girl downstairs.
Dear Take Me Down is a full-length, standalone, enemies to lovers romantic dramedy. LOTS of steam, no cheating and a HEA. Intended for a mature audience
Hello, my name is Kennedy, and I’m an addict.
Pills, booze—you name it, I tried it. I wasn’t exactly particular about it. Now, I’m two years sober, in a new country, and looking for a fresh start.
But my noisy, upstairs neighbor is testing the limits of my sobriety. He’s either watching an adult film marathon, harboring a hooker, or performing an exorcism in his flat.
Regardless, I don’t need beer goggles to see that Silas Graves is the finest bloke I’ve ever laid eyes on.
Silas
Hello, my name is Silas, and I’m going blind.
As a struggling actor, I’ve taken a lot of crummy roles. But this is one role I’m not ready to fill.
So, nightly I swipe right or left, because in my bedroom, I never feel blind. The lights are out, and it’s a level playing field. And oh, how I love pretending to be fully sighted.
Honestly, I deserve an Emmy.
But truth be told, all of this has left me feeling nothing but empty.
Maybe it’s time to stop hiding and chase after what I want.
And what I want is the girl downstairs.
Dear Take Me Down is a full-length, standalone, enemies to lovers romantic dramedy. LOTS of steam, no cheating and a HEA. Intended for a mature audience
Audible Audio
First published March 25, 2022
47 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
About the author
Avery Kingston
11 books345 followersAvery Kingston writes sexy, emotional romance featuring wounded characters at a high heat level.
Avery is a wife to a man who’s demons play well with hers. Mom to a slew of crazy kids. Dog lover. Crazy cat lady. Artist. Free spirit. Lover of unusual beauty. Fitness junkie. Collector of boots and fonts. Angsty drama addict and avid wearer of yoga pants.
Avery is a military wife and a sucker for a good wounded hero story. She set out to write stories where the leading characters were smart, sexy, confident and strong. Avery began writing the type of romance novels she would want to read. Stories about real couples, wounded either physically or emotionally, with an open door into their steamy bedroom.
Avery loves to hear from her readers! Please contact her at averyjkingston@gmail.com
Avery loves to be social. Follow Avery on Facebook
Follow Avery on Twitter
Follow Avery on Instagram
Avery is a wife to a man who’s demons play well with hers. Mom to a slew of crazy kids. Dog lover. Crazy cat lady. Artist. Free spirit. Lover of unusual beauty. Fitness junkie. Collector of boots and fonts. Angsty drama addict and avid wearer of yoga pants.
Avery is a military wife and a sucker for a good wounded hero story. She set out to write stories where the leading characters were smart, sexy, confident and strong. Avery began writing the type of romance novels she would want to read. Stories about real couples, wounded either physically or emotionally, with an open door into their steamy bedroom.
Avery loves to hear from her readers! Please contact her at averyjkingston@gmail.com
Avery loves to be social. Follow Avery on Facebook
Follow Avery on Twitter
Follow Avery on Instagram
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September 20, 2022I tried…
While it was well written and the main characters were original and unconventional, I couldn’t connect with either of them. Dnf @ 19%
While it was well written and the main characters were original and unconventional, I couldn’t connect with either of them. Dnf @ 19%
June 8, 2022
𝟰.𝟱 -𝗦𝗶𝗹𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗔𝗠 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄𝘀- ✩
𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 ♫
↬ 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿
Not Take Me Down coming out of nowhere and blowing me away with its awesomeness 🥰🥰
Tbh, Take Me Down was supposed to be one of those books I randomly pick up, read one chapter of, and then quietly dnf.
Obviously, that didn't happen. Instead, I was taken on a slight journey with two very endearing characters. Silas Graves (H) and Kennedy Murphy (h) were two extremely lovable, but extremely troubled, protagonists.
In the first corner, we have Silas Graves. He's a morning radio show host who's quickly losing what's left of his sight. He's been hiding his legally blind status for most of his life, and well … according to him, he's doing just fine.
In the second corner, we have Kennedy Grace Murphy. She's a recovering addict, she's still dealing with the grief of losing her brother, and she's decided to start fresh in New York City. Also, according to Kennedy herself, she's a bit of a … bitch.
So, what happens when a man in denial meets a girl who was forcibly doused in reality? Well, angry fucking fireworks, that's what.
Now, I wanna be upfront. When they first meet it's because, erm, well … Silas is a bit of a wallbanger. That said, I implore you guys to not let that fact bother you.
The romance in Take Me Down is so … authentic. I loved how, Silas and Kennedy were messy, raw, and oh so real. They had their ups and downs, they both brought insecurities to the table, but at the end of the day they *gasps in shock* actually communicated.
Moreover, I loved how author, Avery Kingston, wasn't afraid to allow a hero with a disability to be sexy. Which, I know … shouldn't be novel but actually kinda is. Additionally, I thought the way she handled Kennedy's grief and substance abuse was pretty nuanced. (however, i do wish she had focused on kennedy's struggles a touch more).
To make a long story short, I pretty much adored Take Me Down.
While there were a few things that had me either, laughing from absurdity (hint ... the hero of the next book made me chuckle in disbelief), or somewhat side-eyeing TMD just a little (Silas's whole spiel about representation in media, which … i personally disagree on, and here's why) I still had a fantastic time reading this one.
It was a bit of a happy accident that I picked Take Me Down up, and I sure do love when the Goodreads algorithm smiles down on me.
❝Everyone has a past, Silas.❞ She reached over and caressed my cheek, her fingers rubbing my whiskers. ❝Some darker than others.❞
𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 ♫
↬ 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿
Not Take Me Down coming out of nowhere and blowing me away with its awesomeness 🥰🥰
Tbh, Take Me Down was supposed to be one of those books I randomly pick up, read one chapter of, and then quietly dnf.
Obviously, that didn't happen. Instead, I was taken on a slight journey with two very endearing characters. Silas Graves (H) and Kennedy Murphy (h) were two extremely lovable, but extremely troubled, protagonists.
In the first corner, we have Silas Graves. He's a morning radio show host who's quickly losing what's left of his sight. He's been hiding his legally blind status for most of his life, and well … according to him, he's doing just fine.
In the second corner, we have Kennedy Grace Murphy. She's a recovering addict, she's still dealing with the grief of losing her brother, and she's decided to start fresh in New York City. Also, according to Kennedy herself, she's a bit of a … bitch.
So, what happens when a man in denial meets a girl who was forcibly doused in reality? Well, angry fucking fireworks, that's what.
❝Laugh all you want, Silas,” the doors creaked open on floor two, ❝but at least I’m having sex with someone I love. Myself. Which is more than I can say for you.❞
❝Hey, I love myself almost every damn day. Sometimes twice.❞ he tossed out.
Now, I wanna be upfront. When they first meet it's because, erm, well … Silas is a bit of a wallbanger. That said, I implore you guys to not let that fact bother you.
The romance in Take Me Down is so … authentic. I loved how, Silas and Kennedy were messy, raw, and oh so real. They had their ups and downs, they both brought insecurities to the table, but at the end of the day they *gasps in shock* actually communicated.
Moreover, I loved how author, Avery Kingston, wasn't afraid to allow a hero with a disability to be sexy. Which, I know … shouldn't be novel but actually kinda is. Additionally, I thought the way she handled Kennedy's grief and substance abuse was pretty nuanced. (however, i do wish she had focused on kennedy's struggles a touch more).
To make a long story short, I pretty much adored Take Me Down.
❝I told you, there is only one woman I’m interested in.❞ His lips were dangerously close to mine. My heart rate intensified. ❝You’re mine, Kennedy, you got that? And I’m all yours. Are you good with that?❞
My breath caught in my throat, so I nodded.
❝You and the fucking nods.❞ He chuckled.
Finally, I managed to croak out a meager, ❝Mmmhmmmm.❞
While there were a few things that had me either, laughing from absurdity (hint ... the hero of the next book made me chuckle in disbelief), or somewhat side-eyeing TMD just a little (Silas's whole spiel about representation in media, which … i personally disagree on, and here's why) I still had a fantastic time reading this one.
It was a bit of a happy accident that I picked Take Me Down up, and I sure do love when the Goodreads algorithm smiles down on me.
May 6, 2022
This book! I love, love, loved Kennedy and Silas. They’re both such flawed characters and so freaking perfect for each other. Like with Hush Darling, I got the sense that the author did a lot of research into what it’s like to lose your vision–not just from a biological standpoint, but the emotional toll it takes, as well as the logistics and lifestyle changes that come along with it.
I also wanted to comment that I adored the book’s elevator theme, both in the graphics at the beginning of each chapter and even the punny title. (If you’ve read my novel, you probably have an inkling of just how obsessed with elevators I am! XD)
I also wanted to comment that I adored the book’s elevator theme, both in the graphics at the beginning of each chapter and even the punny title. (If you’ve read my novel, you probably have an inkling of just how obsessed with elevators I am! XD)
October 23, 2025
Both MC’s are extremely flawed. Could they as fully grown adults showed a little more communication skills? Yes. But I still enjoyed it and found their imperfections relatable.
I loved the disability rep and the deep dive we got to journey through mentally as the MMC came to terms with it.
I had a great time immersive reading this. Thank you so much to Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC.
I loved the disability rep and the deep dive we got to journey through mentally as the MMC came to terms with it.
I had a great time immersive reading this. Thank you so much to Hambright PR for the e-ARC and ALC.
June 2, 2022
Was not expecting this.
I've noticed a lack of books with main characters with disabilities. So I saw this one and downloaded it a while back but never got around to reading it for whatever reason. Being lazy yesterday and not wanting to spend hours searching for something to read, I figured I'd give it a shot.
Initially, I wasn't fond of either of the MCs. The H was obnoxious and unapologetic about the fact that he was loud and constantly disrupting his neighbors. The h was seriously kind of a b-... but as the story progressed we get to understand the characters a little better and why they are the way they are: he uses humor and is easygoing attitude to deal with what he's going through and she uses her cold exterior to protect herself from people, understandably.
I loved Kennedy and Silas together. I loved how Silas looked past her cunexttuesday persona and saw who she really was and I loved how she fought for him to let her in, to share his pain. Also, the chemistry.
That ending though really caught me off guard.
Didn't see that one coming.
This was a good story. It almost made cry. There were a few moments that I felt like if I wasn't such and asshole, I definitely would have shed a few tears.
There were also a few laugh out loud moments. I loved how Silas used humor to deal with the pain of going blind.
Also, I wanted to junkpunch Phil, cause really. How much of an ass can someone be. Apparently, he's cornered the market on it.
Anyways. Read this, you won't be sorry.
Yes it's a little long, but it isn't full of filler or drawn out just for the sake of being a longer book. The characters are great and the story is engrossing.
This is my second Avery Kingston book and it definitely won't be my last.
I've noticed a lack of books with main characters with disabilities. So I saw this one and downloaded it a while back but never got around to reading it for whatever reason. Being lazy yesterday and not wanting to spend hours searching for something to read, I figured I'd give it a shot.
Initially, I wasn't fond of either of the MCs. The H was obnoxious and unapologetic about the fact that he was loud and constantly disrupting his neighbors. The h was seriously kind of a b-... but as the story progressed we get to understand the characters a little better and why they are the way they are: he uses humor and is easygoing attitude to deal with what he's going through and she uses her cold exterior to protect herself from people, understandably.
I loved Kennedy and Silas together. I loved how Silas looked past her cunexttuesday persona and saw who she really was and I loved how she fought for him to let her in, to share his pain. Also, the chemistry.
That ending though really caught me off guard.
Didn't see that one coming.
This was a good story. It almost made cry. There were a few moments that I felt like if I wasn't such and asshole, I definitely would have shed a few tears.
There were also a few laugh out loud moments. I loved how Silas used humor to deal with the pain of going blind.
Also, I wanted to junkpunch Phil, cause really. How much of an ass can someone be. Apparently, he's cornered the market on it.
Anyways. Read this, you won't be sorry.
Yes it's a little long, but it isn't full of filler or drawn out just for the sake of being a longer book. The characters are great and the story is engrossing.
This is my second Avery Kingston book and it definitely won't be my last.
May 24, 2022
Avery! You have created another masterpiece and I absolutely adore it. I'm a wee bit late to the party, sorry.
Take Me Down exceeded my expectations and it is brilliant.
I can't wait for the next book.
Take Me Down exceeded my expectations and it is brilliant.
I can't wait for the next book.
November 25, 2025
Thank you Hambright PR for providing me with the audio book!
This felt like a reality TV show, only I wasn’t watching it, I was listening to it. The characters are pretty likeable and that ending was just…. 🥹❤️
This felt like a reality TV show, only I wasn’t watching it, I was listening to it. The characters are pretty likeable and that ending was just…. 🥹❤️
November 20, 2025
(3.7 Stars)
Kennedy Murphy is trying to start fresh and 2 years sober but her upstairs neighbor is testing her patience. Silas Graves is using a line a woman to push down his feelings about his failing eyesight. When he bumps into his new neighbor in the elevator it doesn’t go so well. Can these two find a common friendship and someone who understands the other. Maybe these two flawed individuals can find a bond that lasts? An emotional and at times funny, touching romance about making the most of the situation we find our selves in. Told in first person and dual POV.
Kennedy Murphy is trying to start fresh and 2 years sober but her upstairs neighbor is testing her patience. Silas Graves is using a line a woman to push down his feelings about his failing eyesight. When he bumps into his new neighbor in the elevator it doesn’t go so well. Can these two find a common friendship and someone who understands the other. Maybe these two flawed individuals can find a bond that lasts? An emotional and at times funny, touching romance about making the most of the situation we find our selves in. Told in first person and dual POV.
March 19, 2022
This is book 1 in Kingston's Face the Music series...This is Silas and Kennedy's story. A well written romance that captivates from the very beginning with these two. I adore Kennedy - her sass and spunk, wit and sarcasm had me from the start and Silas - well, I love a reformed playboy! Such a surprisingly good read, I can't wait for more in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2022
Avery Kingston was already a favorite. This book blew me away! I’ve never read any other author that can write the kind of books she writes.
I was addicted to Kennedy and Silas the moment they met. The banter in this book was everything. The emotions in book was everything. I wish I would of read it slower to savor it.
The way Kennedy and Silas both help each other deal with life is amazing. The way they come to love each other is everything. The way Kennedy helps Silas warms your heart.
Beautiful writing, beautiful story❤️
“𝕀’𝕕 𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕂𝕖𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕕𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥, 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣. 𝔹𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕀’𝕞 𝕥𝕣𝕦𝕝𝕪 𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕕.“
I was addicted to Kennedy and Silas the moment they met. The banter in this book was everything. The emotions in book was everything. I wish I would of read it slower to savor it.
The way Kennedy and Silas both help each other deal with life is amazing. The way they come to love each other is everything. The way Kennedy helps Silas warms your heart.
Beautiful writing, beautiful story❤️
“𝕀’𝕕 𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕂𝕖𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕕𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥, 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣. 𝔹𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕀’𝕞 𝕥𝕣𝕦𝕝𝕪 𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕕.“
March 17, 2022
Funny and so fucking sexy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. It was so heartwarming and full of love and understanding. Silas and Kennedy were amazing characters. The storyline was awesome, and I loved the way Kennedy was there to help Silas through his issues. They definitely had the chemistry and made each other happy.
It was a great book to read. I only put it down when I had to. Loved it. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
It was a great book to read. I only put it down when I had to. Loved it. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
March 21, 2022
The first book of Avery Kingston's newest series (Face the Music) is steller. I was up late every night until the book was finished. I couldn't set it down.
I loved Kennedy, her strength and sass. I adored Silas. His emotions on how he wanted to be seen vs. how he was viewed and his struggle with his new identity rang true. It was so well written.
I love how the author described when Kennedy played her cello, and it gave Silas the sunset. It was so beautiful. Also, the conversation between him and his parents was another scene that felt true and real (there are many, many more, but I'll let you discover them).
Also, I love humor in stories, and this one had it. Take Me Down dealt with some weighty issues but was expertly balanced with laughter. It was the perfect combination.
If you're looking for a great romance, I recommend picking up this book. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
I loved Kennedy, her strength and sass. I adored Silas. His emotions on how he wanted to be seen vs. how he was viewed and his struggle with his new identity rang true. It was so well written.
I love how the author described when Kennedy played her cello, and it gave Silas the sunset. It was so beautiful. Also, the conversation between him and his parents was another scene that felt true and real (there are many, many more, but I'll let you discover them).
Also, I love humor in stories, and this one had it. Take Me Down dealt with some weighty issues but was expertly balanced with laughter. It was the perfect combination.
If you're looking for a great romance, I recommend picking up this book. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
November 3, 2025
Take Me Down by Avery Kingston was an emotional and steamy ride that kept me hooked from the start. The chemistry between the main characters was electric, and the mix of tension, passion, and vulnerability made their connection feel real. I loved how Avery Kingston balanced the heat with heartfelt moments and gave both characters depth and backstory that made me root for them.
There were a few spots where the pacing felt a little uneven, but overall it didn’t take away from the story’s pull. The emotional intensity and the way the characters grew together made this a standout romance.
There were a few spots where the pacing felt a little uneven, but overall it didn’t take away from the story’s pull. The emotional intensity and the way the characters grew together made this a standout romance.
October 22, 2025
So much to unpack in this story!
I very much enjoyed reading this book, Take Me Down, by Avery Kingston. And here I thought the hero was a rockstar! Joke’s definitely on me!
I was a little bit put off at the beginning by Kennedy’s bitterness and RBF, but since Silas actually liked it, I just went with it. Of course, she wasn’t horrible, just traumatized by life. Having lost her brother, it’s no wonder she was an addict. Silas too. Losing his sight his whole life, and the only place sight didn’t matter was in the bedroom.
Anyway, between the two of them and their sad stories, they were perfect at giving each other what they needed. She a way to gentle her no-nonsense angry attitude with caring for, but never catering to Silas and his needs. And Silas finally found it safe to admit he was blind, and to still feel like he was worthy of finding, and keeping, the right kind of woman for him.
I think the author did a really good job of negotiating the two big minefields of their lives, and I was entertained and engaged the whole way through. Well done!
#HPRTakeMeDown
#AveryKingston
#HambrightPR
I very much enjoyed reading this book, Take Me Down, by Avery Kingston. And here I thought the hero was a rockstar! Joke’s definitely on me!
I was a little bit put off at the beginning by Kennedy’s bitterness and RBF, but since Silas actually liked it, I just went with it. Of course, she wasn’t horrible, just traumatized by life. Having lost her brother, it’s no wonder she was an addict. Silas too. Losing his sight his whole life, and the only place sight didn’t matter was in the bedroom.
Anyway, between the two of them and their sad stories, they were perfect at giving each other what they needed. She a way to gentle her no-nonsense angry attitude with caring for, but never catering to Silas and his needs. And Silas finally found it safe to admit he was blind, and to still feel like he was worthy of finding, and keeping, the right kind of woman for him.
I think the author did a really good job of negotiating the two big minefields of their lives, and I was entertained and engaged the whole way through. Well done!
#HPRTakeMeDown
#AveryKingston
#HambrightPR
April 7, 2022
I didn’t expect to like this book as much as I did, and I didn’t expect to fall in love with the character either, yet it happened.
I totally fell in love with them and their antics.
Their world captured me, and I didn’t want to leave. The book should never have ended.
The way the author wrote certain themes (like Silas disorder ) delicate and well researched; I couldn’t have explained better than she did.
SPOILER ALLERT
How she describes the torment Silas went through, how hard was for him to accept the fact he’s going blind, or how the ERG visit is.
Well done, Ms. Kingston, you robbed my hearth.
Anyhow, let’s talk about them: Silas & Kennedy;
Two tormented souls who found each other a perfect match of two imperfect people who helped each other to give their best side to the world.
You’d love this book if you like gut-wrenching romance.
.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
.
I totally fell in love with them and their antics.
Their world captured me, and I didn’t want to leave. The book should never have ended.
The way the author wrote certain themes (like Silas disorder ) delicate and well researched; I couldn’t have explained better than she did.
SPOILER ALLERT
How she describes the torment Silas went through, how hard was for him to accept the fact he’s going blind, or how the ERG visit is.
Well done, Ms. Kingston, you robbed my hearth.
Anyhow, let’s talk about them: Silas & Kennedy;
Two tormented souls who found each other a perfect match of two imperfect people who helped each other to give their best side to the world.
You’d love this book if you like gut-wrenching romance.
.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
.
November 20, 2025
This is a well told contemporary romance with the slightly unusual trope of Grumpy/Grumpy instead of Grumpy/Sunshine. Not that these main characters don’t have a good reason to be a bit grumpy. Kennedy is a struggling music teacher, new to America, two years sober and having to deal with her obnoxious upstairs neighbor and his loud nightly sexual escapades that are keeping her awake. Silas is attracted to the sharp tongued British woman he keeps bumping into in the elevator, even when she complains about the noise coming from his apartment and even though he can’t really see what she looks like since he is slowly going blind. This pair is great together, despite their prickly natures and all that life is throwing at them.
Author Avery Kingston has obviously done a lot of research about blindness and how someone would learn to deal with their disability. The characters are appealing and have great chemistry. Any miscommunication or obstacles in their way are dealt with in a mature and realistic way, not blown up and overly melodramatic.
The audio is well paced and went really quickly. It is dual narration style. Emily Mount’s British accent is charming but she does a perfect American for all the other characters (or her British is really good and she is actually American, not sure since she is new to me). She brings the perfect balance of toughness and vulnerability to Kennedy. Sean Masters has one of those deep, sonorous voices that is effortlessly sexy. He makes Silas funny and relatable while he struggles to come to grips with his loss of sight.
If you want a face paced contemporary romance and enjoy snarky banter and realistic emotional journeys, this is an easy recommendation. Thank you to Hambright PR and Avery Kingston for giving me a copy of this audiobook tot listen to and review.
Author Avery Kingston has obviously done a lot of research about blindness and how someone would learn to deal with their disability. The characters are appealing and have great chemistry. Any miscommunication or obstacles in their way are dealt with in a mature and realistic way, not blown up and overly melodramatic.
The audio is well paced and went really quickly. It is dual narration style. Emily Mount’s British accent is charming but she does a perfect American for all the other characters (or her British is really good and she is actually American, not sure since she is new to me). She brings the perfect balance of toughness and vulnerability to Kennedy. Sean Masters has one of those deep, sonorous voices that is effortlessly sexy. He makes Silas funny and relatable while he struggles to come to grips with his loss of sight.
If you want a face paced contemporary romance and enjoy snarky banter and realistic emotional journeys, this is an easy recommendation. Thank you to Hambright PR and Avery Kingston for giving me a copy of this audiobook tot listen to and review.
March 15, 2022
A second chance at love and life type of story, Avery Kingston delivered all the angst, quick wit, wide range of emotions and sexiness flawlessly.
Take Me Down took me by surprise and I am not complaining.
Silas the reformed player totally stole my heart! (Shh…don’t tell Blaze)
One thing Avery does well, and I mean really well, is having badass heroines. Kennedy is no different here. She is full of spunk, wit and sarcasm with a heart of gold. She owns up her mistakes and shortcomings with admirable grace.
The way both characters grounded and humbled each other was amazing to read. Their chemistry was off the charts scorching along with their entertaining banter.
Watching both main characters, especially Silas, grow and be more was truly special. I enjoyed their love story, and like with all stories I love, I hate to leave them and complain about the epilogue being to short, but that’s just me being a needy reader.
Can we say, thank you to inclusivity as well! Being able to have book boyfriends who deal with real life issues, illnesses, and disabilities is needed more in romancelandia. Reading it in this story filled my heart with so much hope to have a more inclusive book world.
But the Easter eggs!!! Ahhhh!! My daddies! Happy Mari here!
All that given and said, I cannot wait for what is to come next.
Take Me Down took me by surprise and I am not complaining.
Silas the reformed player totally stole my heart! (Shh…don’t tell Blaze)
One thing Avery does well, and I mean really well, is having badass heroines. Kennedy is no different here. She is full of spunk, wit and sarcasm with a heart of gold. She owns up her mistakes and shortcomings with admirable grace.
The way both characters grounded and humbled each other was amazing to read. Their chemistry was off the charts scorching along with their entertaining banter.
Watching both main characters, especially Silas, grow and be more was truly special. I enjoyed their love story, and like with all stories I love, I hate to leave them and complain about the epilogue being to short, but that’s just me being a needy reader.
Can we say, thank you to inclusivity as well! Being able to have book boyfriends who deal with real life issues, illnesses, and disabilities is needed more in romancelandia. Reading it in this story filled my heart with so much hope to have a more inclusive book world.
But the Easter eggs!!! Ahhhh!! My daddies! Happy Mari here!
All that given and said, I cannot wait for what is to come next.
December 3, 2025
Not gonna lie, when I saw the cover of this book, I immediately thought “this is not for me”, but that will teach me to judge a book by it’s cover because Take Me Down was so much more than I expected. Yes it’s an enemies to lovers with plenty of steam but it also features two incredible MCs. Kennedy is a recovering addict in a new country with a tonne of grief and guilt about an incident in her past. Silas is a morning radio show host who is hiding the fact that he is going blind. He buries his feelings by bringing home a string of women, until he meets British ice-queen Kennedy in the elevator and even with low vision, he knows she’s something special.
The chemistry between these two was sizzling even though they were both in denial to begin with. Both of them had been hurt before by people who they thought cared about them and I felt that their wariness was very understandable. Although Silas is a hot bad boy, he has a plenty of self doubt under that confident exterior and I loved seeing Kennedy crack through that tough shell and vice versa. I also adored how accepting she was of his disability without feeling sorry for him.
The music and other pop culture references throughout added that extra level of appeal and I couldn’t stop listening to the on point narration from Emily Mount and Sean Masters.
The chemistry between these two was sizzling even though they were both in denial to begin with. Both of them had been hurt before by people who they thought cared about them and I felt that their wariness was very understandable. Although Silas is a hot bad boy, he has a plenty of self doubt under that confident exterior and I loved seeing Kennedy crack through that tough shell and vice versa. I also adored how accepting she was of his disability without feeling sorry for him.
The music and other pop culture references throughout added that extra level of appeal and I couldn’t stop listening to the on point narration from Emily Mount and Sean Masters.
March 14, 2022
I absolutely loved this book, my first by this author but definitely not my last.
This book was so much more than I was expecting, it's very deep and emotional, as well as incredibly steamy. Avery Kingston deals with some very tough subjects but she handles them wonderfully, I'm not sure they could have been dealt with better.
Kennedy is prickly, not overly good with people due to the armour she's surrounded herself with, she could have easily ended up a character you seriously disliked. Thankfully she's a character that you love and want everything to work out for. Then we have sexy Sirus, he so could have been a prize a-hole with his different woman a night and seemingly inflated ego but again you fall in love with him and really want him to get his happily ever after. It's a very good writer that can create two such flawed characters, show them warts and all and have you so invested in their lives. This story isn't just about Sirus and Kennedy's relationship, it's about everything going on in their lives and the difficulties they face. You will go on a trip through the whole spectrum of emotions, it truly is a book worth reading . I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was so much more than I was expecting, it's very deep and emotional, as well as incredibly steamy. Avery Kingston deals with some very tough subjects but she handles them wonderfully, I'm not sure they could have been dealt with better.
Kennedy is prickly, not overly good with people due to the armour she's surrounded herself with, she could have easily ended up a character you seriously disliked. Thankfully she's a character that you love and want everything to work out for. Then we have sexy Sirus, he so could have been a prize a-hole with his different woman a night and seemingly inflated ego but again you fall in love with him and really want him to get his happily ever after. It's a very good writer that can create two such flawed characters, show them warts and all and have you so invested in their lives. This story isn't just about Sirus and Kennedy's relationship, it's about everything going on in their lives and the difficulties they face. You will go on a trip through the whole spectrum of emotions, it truly is a book worth reading . I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2022
I really looked forward to another book by Avery Kingston. I wasn't disappointed by this page turner. I read Take Me Down in about a day. That's not to say the book has to be a quick read. After finishing, I wished I had taken longer to savor it. I hope I don't have to wait another year+ for the next one :).
As far as the two main characters go, I wasn't sure how I felt about using a British person as the main female character, Kennedy. That's often a difficult thing to get right. I'm not British, which makes evaluating the authenticity of the dialogue challenging, but I do wonder... Overall, that didn't bother me too much, and I guess it made sense for the character—truly alone in a foreign country for a fresh start. Ballsy, but also risky for a recovering addict. Makes for a nice level of drama when meeting... Silas. I liked Silas, the male love interest, who is, slowly-ish...quickly...faster-than-expected, going blind. Love me some imperfect hero romance novel.
Looking forward to the next one! Keep 'em coming.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As far as the two main characters go, I wasn't sure how I felt about using a British person as the main female character, Kennedy. That's often a difficult thing to get right. I'm not British, which makes evaluating the authenticity of the dialogue challenging, but I do wonder... Overall, that didn't bother me too much, and I guess it made sense for the character—truly alone in a foreign country for a fresh start. Ballsy, but also risky for a recovering addict. Makes for a nice level of drama when meeting... Silas. I liked Silas, the male love interest, who is, slowly-ish...quickly...faster-than-expected, going blind. Love me some imperfect hero romance novel.
Looking forward to the next one! Keep 'em coming.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2025
This was a cute story with great disability and mental health representation. There was lots of humor with tons of pop culture references. I really enjoyed how flawed Silas and Kennedy both were. The story doesn't paint either one in a pitying light and that really helped sell the story. I personally could have done without all the Harry Potter references but I appreciated the other fandoms that are mentioned. The dual narration by Sean Masters and Emily Mount was well done. Sean as always knocked the emotional depth of Silas out of the park. I noticed some slight differences in volume between his chapters and Emily's so I did have to regularly adjust my volume to compensate. Emily did a wonderful job with the accents but I also would have liked a little more emotion when she voiced Silas. Otherwise overall this was an enjoyable book and I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys character driven plots.
Setting 4/5⭐️
Plot 3.75/5⭐️
Characters 5/5⭐️
Emotional Impact/Depth 3.5/5⭐️
Gut Rating/Vibes 4/5⭐️
Spice 3.5/5🌶
Narration 4.5/5⭐️
Setting 4/5⭐️
Plot 3.75/5⭐️
Characters 5/5⭐️
Emotional Impact/Depth 3.5/5⭐️
Gut Rating/Vibes 4/5⭐️
Spice 3.5/5🌶
Narration 4.5/5⭐️
March 26, 2022
This story was utterly perfect! The characters, the emotions, the situations all felt so real and authentic that I just got so swept up into Silas and Kennedy’s story. I was saddened when I turned the last page and the story was over. I wanted it to go on forever. It was just so good!
Kennedy and Silas have such fantastic chemistry, amazingly funny banter and the sexual tension was explosive in every way! Their story had me laughing uncontrollably and crying throughout. There were many moments and little nuances that hit me hard and left me with tears dripping off my face. It pulled on my heartstrings and had me gushing with love for two amazing characters.
Beautifully written story filled with all kinds of emotions that just oozed off the pages and filled my heart with love. This is one of the best love stories I have read in a while! I absolutely loved and adored everything about it.
Kennedy and Silas have such fantastic chemistry, amazingly funny banter and the sexual tension was explosive in every way! Their story had me laughing uncontrollably and crying throughout. There were many moments and little nuances that hit me hard and left me with tears dripping off my face. It pulled on my heartstrings and had me gushing with love for two amazing characters.
Beautifully written story filled with all kinds of emotions that just oozed off the pages and filled my heart with love. This is one of the best love stories I have read in a while! I absolutely loved and adored everything about it.
December 28, 2025
Absolutely Brilliant! This book was an incredible read. The book gripped my attention from the very first page. I had the amazing opportunity to listen to the audio version as well as read along. That experience was breathtaking. I am truly blown away at how amazing these voice actors are. Kennedys accent was so fun to listen to and Silas, oh my, his voice had me blushing! This book would be nothing if it weren’t for the characters being so well written! Avery Kingston created two incredible and believable characters with real life struggles. She was able to shed light on a horrible disease and portray it honestly. Silas is such an amazing character. The disability representation was inspiring and emotional. His journey to the end was engaging and had my heart breaking. Silas and Kennedys relationship was raw and heart wrenching. The miscommunication between the characters was actually perfect. I don’t usually enjoy that trope, but this was done so well. Truly an incredible book
March 25, 2022
Love, love, love this book! If you like cute/funny/sexy banter, this one’s for you. 😁 Silas and Kennedy have the best chemistry and it’s so fun seeing their relationship evolve. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, there’s plenty of angst to go around too. (Which is great! I love a good mix, and Take Me Down has the perfect balance.) Each of the main characters struggles with some pretty deep emotional traumas… Add to that that one is losing his eyesight and the other is a newly recovering addict, and it makes for all kinds of reading goodness. 🙂
If that’s not good enough, I have two images to leave you with, which I think more than speak for themselves: A beautiful naked woman playing the cello, and a hot tatted guy standing in an elevator snuggling his rescued kitten. I mean, come on. 😏
If that’s not good enough, I have two images to leave you with, which I think more than speak for themselves: A beautiful naked woman playing the cello, and a hot tatted guy standing in an elevator snuggling his rescued kitten. I mean, come on. 😏
December 21, 2025
This book had me locked in from the start. Prickly neighbors? Emotional baggage? Forced proximity with tension you can feel? Say less. Kennedy is a British music teacher, two years sober and trying to keep her life together in New York, while Silas is a former actor turned radio DJ who’s slowly losing his eyesight and pretending everything is totally fine (it is not). Naturally, they clash. Naturally, the chemistry is feral.
What really worked for me was how grounded this romance felt. Yes, it’s hot. Yes, the banter is sharp. But there’s also real depth here. There’s addiction recovery, fear, vulnerability, and two people figuring out how to let someone else in when it would be easier not to. The emotional buildup felt earned, not rushed, and I was genuinely rooting for them.
Is it perfect? No. A few moments were predictable, and some emotional beats could’ve hit harder. But did I care? Not really. I was too busy inhaling the story.
A very satisfying four-star read and one I’d easily recommend if you like your romance with heart, heat, and a little bite. 📚🔥
What really worked for me was how grounded this romance felt. Yes, it’s hot. Yes, the banter is sharp. But there’s also real depth here. There’s addiction recovery, fear, vulnerability, and two people figuring out how to let someone else in when it would be easier not to. The emotional buildup felt earned, not rushed, and I was genuinely rooting for them.
Is it perfect? No. A few moments were predictable, and some emotional beats could’ve hit harder. But did I care? Not really. I was too busy inhaling the story.
A very satisfying four-star read and one I’d easily recommend if you like your romance with heart, heat, and a little bite. 📚🔥
March 28, 2022
This book was phenomenal!
I had previously read Hush Darling by this author and have recommended it dozens of times in several book groups, so when I saw she released a new book this last week, I dove in.
Take Me Down revolves around Silas, a former actor, now radio DJ, that is rapidly losing his eyesight, and Kennedy, our British female MC, that is a recovering addict, two years sober. She comes with her own painfully emotional baggage, and I loved her.
There was fabulous banter between Silas and Kennedy, humor and tears, amazing heat, and just SO much story! So many authors throw in a separation period and I was so pleased this book didn't have one, as their story just continued all the way until the very end.
Definitely 5 stars and one of my favorite reads of 2022!
I had previously read Hush Darling by this author and have recommended it dozens of times in several book groups, so when I saw she released a new book this last week, I dove in.
Take Me Down revolves around Silas, a former actor, now radio DJ, that is rapidly losing his eyesight, and Kennedy, our British female MC, that is a recovering addict, two years sober. She comes with her own painfully emotional baggage, and I loved her.
There was fabulous banter between Silas and Kennedy, humor and tears, amazing heat, and just SO much story! So many authors throw in a separation period and I was so pleased this book didn't have one, as their story just continued all the way until the very end.
Definitely 5 stars and one of my favorite reads of 2022!
December 2, 2025
This book was a little outside my usual reads, but somehow it was exactly what my soul needed. Beautifully written with just the right mix of spice, drama, and humor, it completely pulled me in. Watching Silas slowly lose his vision was heartbreaking, yet his humor never faded.. and neither did my love for him. The dialogue and banter were top-tier fun, and Kennedy? A self-proclaimed “cunt” with the softest heart… the way she truly saw him had me weak. And that cello scene?? Criminally erotic. I did NOT see the twist at the end coming, and I loved every second of it.. knowing everyone still got their happy ending.
•408 Pages
•Dual POV
•Standalone
•Romantic Dramedy
•Grumpy x Sunshine
•Emotional Wounds
•Secrets
•Stuck in an Elevator
•Vision Loss
•Pregnancy
•Recovery
•408 Pages
•Dual POV
•Standalone
•Romantic Dramedy
•Grumpy x Sunshine
•Emotional Wounds
•Secrets
•Stuck in an Elevator
•Vision Loss
•Pregnancy
•Recovery
November 25, 2025
This book!!! I adored Kennedy and Silas. Each balancing out the other's imperfections, like two puzzle pieces shaped by equal parts flaws and strengths. The detail and research in this book gave me a glimpse at what life with vision loss and sobriety is like. This was my first Avery Kingston read and it exceeded every expectation.
🎧Narrated by Sean Masters & Emily Mount and wow they absolutely nailed it!
Thank you Avery and Hambright PR for the eARC/ALC 💛
🎧Narrated by Sean Masters & Emily Mount and wow they absolutely nailed it!
Thank you Avery and Hambright PR for the eARC/ALC 💛
November 26, 2025
4.5 stars for this emotional roller coaster! I love when I dislike the MMC at first, but he quickly worms his way into the readers heart. They both have traumatic pasts to overcome, and the more they get to know each other, they're chemistry is undeniable.
I couldn't put this one down and the twist at the end had me crying like a baby in the best way. Their friendship is so genuine and just what they both need to become the best versions of themselves. Definitely add this one to your TBR!
I couldn't put this one down and the twist at the end had me crying like a baby in the best way. Their friendship is so genuine and just what they both need to become the best versions of themselves. Definitely add this one to your TBR!
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