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Skid Row Kings #1
Downshift
Luke Jensen lived on the wrong side of the tracks all his life, but that never stopped him from realizing his dream and making it a reality. Now, the King of the Street Racing scene, he finally has everything he wants and he won’t let anyone take it away from him.
Violet Barnes lived a sheltered life growing up, never fitting in except in the books that she loved. After losing her parents, she forges forward, creating her own little world, content in being alone.
When Violet stumbles into Luke’s shop, sparks fly but neither can let go of the hard lessons they learned growing up.
Will Violet give Luke a chance to prove he’s not just another gear head? Or will Luke write Violet off before they even have a chance to see that they both need to let go of their past, and focus on the future?
Violet Barnes lived a sheltered life growing up, never fitting in except in the books that she loved. After losing her parents, she forges forward, creating her own little world, content in being alone.
When Violet stumbles into Luke’s shop, sparks fly but neither can let go of the hard lessons they learned growing up.
Will Violet give Luke a chance to prove he’s not just another gear head? Or will Luke write Violet off before they even have a chance to see that they both need to let go of their past, and focus on the future?
ebook
First published April 27, 2016
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About the author
Winter Travers
160 books1,459 followersWall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Winter Travers is a devoted wife, mother, and aunt turned author who was born and raised in Wisconsin.
After a brief stint in South Carolina following her heart to chase the man who is now her hubby, they retreated back up North to the changing seasons, and to the place they now call home.
Winter spends her days writing happily ever afters, and her nights being a karate mom hauling her son to practices and tournaments. She also has an addiction to anything MC related, puppies, and baking.
After a brief stint in South Carolina following her heart to chase the man who is now her hubby, they retreated back up North to the changing seasons, and to the place they now call home.
Winter spends her days writing happily ever afters, and her nights being a karate mom hauling her son to practices and tournaments. She also has an addiction to anything MC related, puppies, and baking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
June 11, 2020
I am a big fan of the Fast And Furious movies too and I can definitely see where Winter Travers got her inspiration for this book. I mean really. Who wouldn’t want a Dom Torreto look a like in a street racing story? But then again is it the character or the actor playing the character the author was picturing as her muse? Or maybe a little of both? I guess it all depends on what Vin Diesel is like in person. Well, on with the review.
For the record, I think I have read DownShift 2 or 3 times since I got it last April. I guess I really like the story line, interesting. Might have something to do with that Fast And Furious thing or it could be that the characters are so freaking awesome. Yeah, Luke is a first-class jack a*s but at least he owns when he is wrong. Besides one of his little brothers has him beat in the jack a*s department; I won’t tell you which one because you’ll have more fun reading the book. I will tell you there is a doornob in the story who is a real cow faced cow. Then there is Violet, shy and unassuming with huge heart of gold and it is a real shame that Luke waisted so much time being an a*^hat.
Clearly, I really like DownShift, Oh did I mention that I got the other 2 books in the series to read? They are on my list just not sure when I will get to them.
For the record, I think I have read DownShift 2 or 3 times since I got it last April. I guess I really like the story line, interesting. Might have something to do with that Fast And Furious thing or it could be that the characters are so freaking awesome. Yeah, Luke is a first-class jack a*s but at least he owns when he is wrong. Besides one of his little brothers has him beat in the jack a*s department; I won’t tell you which one because you’ll have more fun reading the book. I will tell you there is a doornob in the story who is a real cow faced cow. Then there is Violet, shy and unassuming with huge heart of gold and it is a real shame that Luke waisted so much time being an a*^hat.
Clearly, I really like DownShift, Oh did I mention that I got the other 2 books in the series to read? They are on my list just not sure when I will get to them.
September 22, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
I fell in love with Winter Travis and her Devils Knight series and this one oh boy another winner for freaking sure
I love books that capture you from beginning and as the story unfolds it just draws you in and before you know it is like 2am in the morning and you finished the whole book :-)
Luke and Violet had my total attention. Violet was such a sweet person and she didn't have an easy life, but she was making the best of her life and trying to be normal.She is a librarian who prefers to be a loner. Her only relationship is with her books. When Luke's little sister starts hanging around the library every day until past closing sometimes, things start changing for Violet significantly.
Luke was a boy who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and then he made something of his life, opened his own custom garage and then he's parents died and he was responsible for a 14year old.
Luke is not use to someone like Violet, he's used to fast cars and even fast-er women. So will he be able to handle someone like Violet.
This book was awesome, I loved it and I know that everyone who reads it will fall in love with Luke and Violet
This story was drama/sad/sexy/and the chemistry was hot
So definitely everything you need
Thanks Winter for sharing this awesome story with me
Can't wait for the next one
I fell in love with Winter Travis and her Devils Knight series and this one oh boy another winner for freaking sure
I love books that capture you from beginning and as the story unfolds it just draws you in and before you know it is like 2am in the morning and you finished the whole book :-)
Luke and Violet had my total attention. Violet was such a sweet person and she didn't have an easy life, but she was making the best of her life and trying to be normal.She is a librarian who prefers to be a loner. Her only relationship is with her books. When Luke's little sister starts hanging around the library every day until past closing sometimes, things start changing for Violet significantly.
Luke was a boy who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and then he made something of his life, opened his own custom garage and then he's parents died and he was responsible for a 14year old.
Luke is not use to someone like Violet, he's used to fast cars and even fast-er women. So will he be able to handle someone like Violet.
This book was awesome, I loved it and I know that everyone who reads it will fall in love with Luke and Violet
This story was drama/sad/sexy/and the chemistry was hot
So definitely everything you need
Thanks Winter for sharing this awesome story with me
Can't wait for the next one
May 8, 2016
ARC provided for an honest review.
3.0 - 3.25 Princess stars
Violet Barnes has her dream job of Librarian, where she meets a 14-year-old Frankie Jensen. Frankie has been orphaned like Violet, so they bond in that. But Violet doesn't immediately bond with Frankie's oldest brother and guardian Luke, local mechanic and a member of the three brothers who make up the Skid Row Kings, street racing team, which they also named their garage.
Misunderstandings and miscommunications cause these Violet and Luke to form an instant dislike, although still attracted to each other. It will take a willfully nasty comment by Luke's date and old nemesis of Violet's to make Luke see who Violet really is.
Will these two find what they've been missing in their lives in each other? Will Violet's entrance in the lives of the Jensen family help Luke and Frankie communicate better?
This is my first Winter Travers book. Although I really liked it a lot, it was an easy sweet read with not a lot of angst and some sweet and funny moments, which is what I look for. The only reason I didn't give it a better rating is because the word "Princess" was used way too much (182). I don't think there was a paragraph where Luke spoke to or about Violet that he didn't say it. So much that it bothered me... Obviously, since I'm mentioning it.
I will definitely try to read more from this author and I'm really curious about the 'redhead' who walked into the garage and Mitch, as well as why Kurt and Leelee can't seem to stop snarking at each other. But I have to say that if the next book does the same thing with the endearment used at infinitum, I may have an issue.
I know authors put themselves out there with their writing and I really respect that. I don't want to be mean at all, but it did get to me and I think I have to mention it so that anyone who reads my review and thinks they want to read it, will also know what could be an issue for them as it was for me.
3.0 - 3.25 Princess stars
Violet Barnes has her dream job of Librarian, where she meets a 14-year-old Frankie Jensen. Frankie has been orphaned like Violet, so they bond in that. But Violet doesn't immediately bond with Frankie's oldest brother and guardian Luke, local mechanic and a member of the three brothers who make up the Skid Row Kings, street racing team, which they also named their garage.
Misunderstandings and miscommunications cause these Violet and Luke to form an instant dislike, although still attracted to each other. It will take a willfully nasty comment by Luke's date and old nemesis of Violet's to make Luke see who Violet really is.
Will these two find what they've been missing in their lives in each other? Will Violet's entrance in the lives of the Jensen family help Luke and Frankie communicate better?
This is my first Winter Travers book. Although I really liked it a lot, it was an easy sweet read with not a lot of angst and some sweet and funny moments, which is what I look for. The only reason I didn't give it a better rating is because the word "Princess" was used way too much (182). I don't think there was a paragraph where Luke spoke to or about Violet that he didn't say it. So much that it bothered me... Obviously, since I'm mentioning it.
I will definitely try to read more from this author and I'm really curious about the 'redhead' who walked into the garage and Mitch, as well as why Kurt and Leelee can't seem to stop snarking at each other. But I have to say that if the next book does the same thing with the endearment used at infinitum, I may have an issue.
I know authors put themselves out there with their writing and I really respect that. I don't want to be mean at all, but it did get to me and I think I have to mention it so that anyone who reads my review and thinks they want to read it, will also know what could be an issue for them as it was for me.
October 7, 2016
Luke loves his car and racing. So what does this easy good looking guy do?!?!.... become his baby sister guardian!! The first rule is?!?!?...remember to pick her up at the library!! Whoops!!
Violet loves reading and guess what her job is? Ding, ding....a librarian!! It was getting late and it's pouring out, so what does this awesome librarian do? Well read the book ;)
Super hot and smexy in my opinion :)
Violet loves reading and guess what her job is? Ding, ding....a librarian!! It was getting late and it's pouring out, so what does this awesome librarian do? Well read the book ;)
Super hot and smexy in my opinion :)
May 3, 2019
I wanted an easy read after a long day and this was free. Unfortunately it may have cost me a few brain cells. The writing was juvenile and an editor was definitely needed. Plus there was no ending per say. I guess you get what you pay for!
August 5, 2019
Reread August 4th 5 ⭐️
May 12, 2019
Yikes. Glad this was a freebie.
July 28, 2020
An alpha asshole who's actually a good guy with a hard front and a shy, meek woman who stirs and awakens his need to protect, he just has a probem with articulating the right words...with a slight "insta-love" tangible jump towards the rest of the HEA
ah well, I liked some parts, and I obviously didn't like other parts :/
anyway, an okay read but nothing big to write home about.
ah well, I liked some parts, and I obviously didn't like other parts :/
anyway, an okay read but nothing big to write home about.
April 24, 2016
Oh boy, where to begin. It was such a surprise to find this on my kindle today. I knew instantly that my day would be filled with Winter's wonder. This book blew me away. Luke and Violet had my total attention. I was a slave to them. I loved the quiet innocence that was Violet. Luke was a prat to her at the start, but he redeemed himself quite quickly, once he realized he was so totally wrong about her. I cried for Violet, and felt for Luke in his feeling of helplessness in regards to his sister and aunt.
A fast paced, emotional and at times, so freaking funny story about 2 people that fit together so perfectly, it was bittersweet. They totally owned me for the entire length of the book. I was so involved in them that the ending was like hitting a brick wall. I am anticipating the next book in this series like a kid awaiting Santa. Reading books by this author is like sitting down to utterly indulge in your most favorite chocolate, and leaving you with a totally decadent taste in your mouth and a feeling of contentment and bliss. Winter Travers just stuns me with her ability to utterly enthrall, captivate and make me laugh so hard that I almost lose control of some bodily functions. Just cannot get enough of her books.
A fast paced, emotional and at times, so freaking funny story about 2 people that fit together so perfectly, it was bittersweet. They totally owned me for the entire length of the book. I was so involved in them that the ending was like hitting a brick wall. I am anticipating the next book in this series like a kid awaiting Santa. Reading books by this author is like sitting down to utterly indulge in your most favorite chocolate, and leaving you with a totally decadent taste in your mouth and a feeling of contentment and bliss. Winter Travers just stuns me with her ability to utterly enthrall, captivate and make me laugh so hard that I almost lose control of some bodily functions. Just cannot get enough of her books.
May 1, 2016
LOVED LOVED LOVED this story. So looking forward to Mitch next.
May 1, 2016
LOVED LOVED LOVED Luke & Violet. So looking forward to Mitch next.
April 21, 2018
Winter Travers ~ Downshift
The first book in the series and sets the series off with a ??
You meet Violet and Like who don’t exactly hit it off straight away. He is the typical alpha male who thinks he is the King of all Kings. Violet is a sweet librarian who won’t let people walkover her. Things change because of Luke opens his mouth and says the wrong thing. Once he is out in place by his family, his feelings change.
Violet has had a troubled childhood and she thought that was behind her until the bully returns. Even though Violet is a strong independent women, the words from her childhood still hurt.
Their relationship grows fast and hard. They learn things about each other along the way. And who doesn’t love a HEA.
Loved this book. Loved how Luke and Violet grew as a couple, they didn’t jump right it. Violet showed her fiesta side which was great. And Luke, oh that sexy man was HOT!!
The first book in the series and sets the series off with a ??
You meet Violet and Like who don’t exactly hit it off straight away. He is the typical alpha male who thinks he is the King of all Kings. Violet is a sweet librarian who won’t let people walkover her. Things change because of Luke opens his mouth and says the wrong thing. Once he is out in place by his family, his feelings change.
Violet has had a troubled childhood and she thought that was behind her until the bully returns. Even though Violet is a strong independent women, the words from her childhood still hurt.
Their relationship grows fast and hard. They learn things about each other along the way. And who doesn’t love a HEA.
Loved this book. Loved how Luke and Violet grew as a couple, they didn’t jump right it. Violet showed her fiesta side which was great. And Luke, oh that sexy man was HOT!!
May 18, 2016
I loved so much about this book! The book overall felt very real and believable. There were no outlandish characters or bazaar ideals. I've been deep in the reading trenches of dark and twisted romance for a while so it felt nice to read something that is more low-key and "real life." That being said, there were still plenty of feels and action. There was just enough subject matter regarding the auto racing and its community to explain what was going on and peak your interest, but not so much that it would take away from the budding relationships. The characters were well fleshed-out and their personalities were solid and stayed true to each throughout.
Our heroine, Violet, is one to primarily keep to herself. She is a book-loving librarian that lives on a very tight budget. She carries herself well, dresses nicely, yet modestly for work, and comes home to a quiet, low-budget apartment. She had a rough childhood in regards to how she was treated in school, and lived in a low-income tiny apartment with her loving parents.
Luke and his siblings grew up on the "wrong side of the tracks," Skid Row. Luke is the oldest of his siblings and worked hard to become successful enough to make something of himself outside of that disparaging community. With the sudden loss of both parents, it fell on Luke's shoulders to resume responsibility for his 14 year old sister. All living together, three grown men and their young sister, they struggle to find a "new normal" while coping with their loss.
I love the yes, no, maybe beginning that Violet and Luke share when they first meet. There is a physical attraction but not an immediate fondness by any means. Violet's car troubles sort of forces the two to spend a little time together and a relationship starts to form as they get to know more about each other. However, presumptions and judgements get in the way and the couple runs into trouble. There are some analogies in the writing between the relationships and the racing. At least I see it that way. Luke is a risk taker, though not the reckless sort. Violet is one to feel safe in her bubble, not attracting attention to herself, and certainly not taking risks. I saw that in certain scenes such as:
"'Well, I'll just have to call you [Vi] more often. You ready to go for that ride now, Vi?' I glanced over, her hand gripping the armrest and the other one clenched in her lap.
'Um, I guess, but do we have to go so fast?'
'Fast is what I do, Princess.' I eyed the turn coming, knowing exactly what I needed to do, but just hoped Violet wasn't going to freak out. 'So, have you ever watched street racing?'"
I loved watching this couple fall in love and work through struggles and family dynamics. I look forward to what is to come for Luke and Violet and Luke's other brothers!
*I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Our heroine, Violet, is one to primarily keep to herself. She is a book-loving librarian that lives on a very tight budget. She carries herself well, dresses nicely, yet modestly for work, and comes home to a quiet, low-budget apartment. She had a rough childhood in regards to how she was treated in school, and lived in a low-income tiny apartment with her loving parents.
Luke and his siblings grew up on the "wrong side of the tracks," Skid Row. Luke is the oldest of his siblings and worked hard to become successful enough to make something of himself outside of that disparaging community. With the sudden loss of both parents, it fell on Luke's shoulders to resume responsibility for his 14 year old sister. All living together, three grown men and their young sister, they struggle to find a "new normal" while coping with their loss.
I love the yes, no, maybe beginning that Violet and Luke share when they first meet. There is a physical attraction but not an immediate fondness by any means. Violet's car troubles sort of forces the two to spend a little time together and a relationship starts to form as they get to know more about each other. However, presumptions and judgements get in the way and the couple runs into trouble. There are some analogies in the writing between the relationships and the racing. At least I see it that way. Luke is a risk taker, though not the reckless sort. Violet is one to feel safe in her bubble, not attracting attention to herself, and certainly not taking risks. I saw that in certain scenes such as:
"'Well, I'll just have to call you [Vi] more often. You ready to go for that ride now, Vi?' I glanced over, her hand gripping the armrest and the other one clenched in her lap.
'Um, I guess, but do we have to go so fast?'
'Fast is what I do, Princess.' I eyed the turn coming, knowing exactly what I needed to do, but just hoped Violet wasn't going to freak out. 'So, have you ever watched street racing?'"
I loved watching this couple fall in love and work through struggles and family dynamics. I look forward to what is to come for Luke and Violet and Luke's other brothers!
*I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
January 31, 2017
Title: Downshift
Author: Winter Travers
Series: Skid Row Kings #1
Genre: contemporary romance
Themes: enemies to lovers
Heat: 2/5
Rating: 2/5
Read for Quirky Blind Date With A Book
This was another of those books which I found really drew me in for the first 25%, and then unfortunately failed to hold my interest for the remainder. I loved the premise - an opposites attract, the shy librarian meets the gruff mechanic, romance, even with the enemies to lovers trope thrown in. But really, I found both characters underdeveloped and a bit immature.
Luke and Violet go from despising one another, with some decent chemistry, to getting together and becoming the most sickeningly loved-up couple, whose relationship builds quicker than I can snap my fingers. I just didn't find it believable, despite its strong premise. I also found that the characters were almost forgotten halfway through, and instead they simply became generic shells of romance tropes.
If Luke called Violet "Princess" once more in these pages, I may have ended up throwing my Kindle across the room. But she was a bit of a princess - pretty useless and drippy, and a bit boring.
The main positive of this read was that the angst was external pressure rather than a forced internal problem-which-isn't-a-problem, and it was that storyline with Frankie and Bev that I actually wanted to hear more about. As it was, there were plenty of plot points, such as Bev's addiction and Frankie's lack of money, which were touched upon but never fully explored. This was too relationship-focused and therefore lacked enough development for my liking.
Author: Winter Travers
Series: Skid Row Kings #1
Genre: contemporary romance
Themes: enemies to lovers
Heat: 2/5
Rating: 2/5
Read for Quirky Blind Date With A Book
This was another of those books which I found really drew me in for the first 25%, and then unfortunately failed to hold my interest for the remainder. I loved the premise - an opposites attract, the shy librarian meets the gruff mechanic, romance, even with the enemies to lovers trope thrown in. But really, I found both characters underdeveloped and a bit immature.
Luke and Violet go from despising one another, with some decent chemistry, to getting together and becoming the most sickeningly loved-up couple, whose relationship builds quicker than I can snap my fingers. I just didn't find it believable, despite its strong premise. I also found that the characters were almost forgotten halfway through, and instead they simply became generic shells of romance tropes.
If Luke called Violet "Princess" once more in these pages, I may have ended up throwing my Kindle across the room. But she was a bit of a princess - pretty useless and drippy, and a bit boring.
The main positive of this read was that the angst was external pressure rather than a forced internal problem-which-isn't-a-problem, and it was that storyline with Frankie and Bev that I actually wanted to hear more about. As it was, there were plenty of plot points, such as Bev's addiction and Frankie's lack of money, which were touched upon but never fully explored. This was too relationship-focused and therefore lacked enough development for my liking.
April 29, 2016
Woah!!! You better hold on to your seats, your hearts, and your panties for this one ladies. Winter Travers holds nothing back as she gives us hot men who love to drive fast cars! OMG. I just devoured this book in one sitting. Yes, it was THAT GOOD!
Luke grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, literally. People either go down on the wrong side of the law or they make it out and do something good with their lives. Luckily Luke was determined to be better. He struggled at first but he wouldn't have it any other way. One day things changed and he finds himself taking care of his 14 year old sister after being a single man. He also pretty much takes care of his brothers too.
Violet lost her parents 4 years ago and has no family. She is a librarian who prefers to be a loner. Her only relationship is with her books. When Luke's little sister starts hanging around the library every day until past closing sometimes, things start changing for Violet significantly.
Luke has his own car shop called Skid Row Kings. He is used to fast cars and even faster women. Can he handle the sass that Violet throws his way? She will sure give him a run for his money. They both will learn a little something from each other. They just need to get out if their own way first.
This seriously was such a great read. I can't recommend it enough. Don't forget, Luke also has two hot brothers that we will want more of!
Luke grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, literally. People either go down on the wrong side of the law or they make it out and do something good with their lives. Luckily Luke was determined to be better. He struggled at first but he wouldn't have it any other way. One day things changed and he finds himself taking care of his 14 year old sister after being a single man. He also pretty much takes care of his brothers too.
Violet lost her parents 4 years ago and has no family. She is a librarian who prefers to be a loner. Her only relationship is with her books. When Luke's little sister starts hanging around the library every day until past closing sometimes, things start changing for Violet significantly.
Luke has his own car shop called Skid Row Kings. He is used to fast cars and even faster women. Can he handle the sass that Violet throws his way? She will sure give him a run for his money. They both will learn a little something from each other. They just need to get out if their own way first.
This seriously was such a great read. I can't recommend it enough. Don't forget, Luke also has two hot brothers that we will want more of!
April 25, 2019
DNF @ 70 percent. I tried, I really tried to give this book my all, but after one too many "Princess" and one way too many whispering by the hero or heroine, and just too many cliches with the growling and "say my name" and "I'm making her mine" and girls openly ogling and touching the hero in front of the heroine - and nothing really fitting where they should, because it just seemed like the author threw these in the story because they belonged, but she didn't try to work them in as seamlessly as she should have - I gave up. And nothing was funny. Like when LeeLee was snarking on Kurt and his girls while scarfing down a taco - seriously, girl? You ate one taco in two bites? - and her comments were supposed to have been witty and funny. Um, they were not. This book just started to read more and more like "let's throw everything I have ever read in other books that I liked and want to include in a book I write, but I really don't have time to figure out if they make sense or where I put them in the story" than anything with substance. I had to give up.
May 10, 2016
So very disappointed. This story had so much potential, but the writing was so horrible. The author used the past perfect tense way too often. Then she mixed present and past tense verbs, and it was just a horrible mess. I was so disappointed because this book had serious potential. The storyline was awesome. Luke was fabulous. His brothers were great, and their interplay with Luke was funny. Violet was pretty awesome, too. Even the little sister was great. Frankie kept the story going, and so did Leelee. There were moments when I was slightly annoyed with the plot line- for example the first time Luke and Violet screwed. It seemed a little 180 degree turn, and could have developed a little more smoothly. Same thing for the aunt's involvement in the story, but overall, it really was a great story. I am seriously considering repaid the next story in the series because I liked the plot so much, but the jury is still out.
May 20, 2019
It was a big OKAY. I wanted more, but it was an okay book to pass the time. Nothing special. I did not feel as connected to the characters as I wanted to feel.
The heroine works at a library. One day a girl that she sees at the library everyday is sitting outside the closed library waiting to be picked up in the rain. She drives the girl home and meets the girl's brother who forgot to pick her up. The brother is a race car driver and owns a mechanic shop. He has custody of his baby sister after his parents passed away.
The brother assumes that he knows the heroine's type, but is proven wrong. It could have been good, but the execution was poor.
The heroine works at a library. One day a girl that she sees at the library everyday is sitting outside the closed library waiting to be picked up in the rain. She drives the girl home and meets the girl's brother who forgot to pick her up. The brother is a race car driver and owns a mechanic shop. He has custody of his baby sister after his parents passed away.
The brother assumes that he knows the heroine's type, but is proven wrong. It could have been good, but the execution was poor.
August 24, 2018
Winter Travers, "Downshift" was a great read! If you are looking for a book about racing, romance, and people making it from the wrong side of the tracks then read this one. And Luke is so easy to read about mmmmmm lucky Violet!
April 23, 2019
4.5 stars the ending felt very rushed I had more questions than answers about Luke and Violet
November 19, 2016
★★☆☆☆
Genre: New-Adult, Romance, Suspense
Recommend: No
Book 1
NO SPOILERS
Review originally posted on Aoibh Reads
26 Y/O Violet Barnes is on her own. Since her parents' death she has built her own life and keeps herself to herself. A book nerd, she works in the library to earn some money and fulfill a passion.
Luke Jensen owns the local garage, where his two brothers work, and his younger teenage sister Frankie lives. Luke doesn't have time for innocence and vanilla, whilst Violet doesn't care for Luke's arrogant facade when she meets him through Frankie. But their stubborn arguing soon brings them together and they fight to be with each other, despite having opposite pasts.
As a car girl I love any romance involving racing and cars and long to find an author actually showing knowledge about engines and how things work when a pivotal character has the hobby... in fairness to Travers, that was well depicted in this novel.
Characters: I don't know why, but I couldn't connect with Luke or Violet. At the beginning I loved their chemistry and was hooked, but about a third of the way in I lost focus completely. Violet was 26 and I couldn't relate to her level of innocence at all. If her age had not been divulged, I would've guessed she was about 17 or 18 judging by her maturity. Frankie was integral to Violet meeting Luke, but she seemed to only re-appear when convenient for a plot twist or further drama. Luke will not be making it onto my book boyfriend list. I didn't find him charming or anything redeeming about him. He seemed to do a 180 too quickly for it to be believable from going to having one night stands to being devoted to Violet, even though we did get some mental battle.
Is she serious?! Pretty sure everyone knows the person who stays ahead in a race wins!
POV: Dual POV can work really well... or be detrimental to the story. Sadly, in this case it was the latter. There was no added value having the insight into Luke's mind and the writing was not distinct enough to differentiate between characters. A reader should be able to tell who's POV it is without being told IMO. This is a common find among the female writers and although it probably doesn't bother 99% of readers, it's one of my pet hates. The thought process and mind of a male is entirely different to that of a female, and Luke showed too many female thinking patterns.
Romance: The initial chemistry between the pair drew me in and was electric. But then it all sort of fell by the wayside and felt strongly amateur. I cringed at most latter conversations or romantic scenarios between them both and sped read a lot of the remainder of the book. Luke calls Violet "Princess" throughout, but way too often for it to be endearing.
There was a lot of pages of pure dialogue that held no meaning or substance. With this, there was also a lot of tell after the reader was shown. Authors need to have faith in their readers picking up on subtle nuances and double-meanings rather than over explaining everything.
If the main characters are late twenties to thirties, I expect some maturity and advance in the writing style. I felt like I was older than them all in this book and it made me lose interest.
Overall:
I wouldn't recommend this book. There were too many minor issues for me that disrupted the effect of the story and I couldn't get swept up in their romance. However, majority of people are giving this 5 stars, so if the issues listed don't bother you, than maybe it will be your sort of thing.
See more of my reviews here
Genre: New-Adult, Romance, Suspense
Recommend: No
Book 1
NO SPOILERS
Review originally posted on Aoibh Reads
26 Y/O Violet Barnes is on her own. Since her parents' death she has built her own life and keeps herself to herself. A book nerd, she works in the library to earn some money and fulfill a passion.
Luke Jensen owns the local garage, where his two brothers work, and his younger teenage sister Frankie lives. Luke doesn't have time for innocence and vanilla, whilst Violet doesn't care for Luke's arrogant facade when she meets him through Frankie. But their stubborn arguing soon brings them together and they fight to be with each other, despite having opposite pasts.
As a car girl I love any romance involving racing and cars and long to find an author actually showing knowledge about engines and how things work when a pivotal character has the hobby... in fairness to Travers, that was well depicted in this novel.
Characters: I don't know why, but I couldn't connect with Luke or Violet. At the beginning I loved their chemistry and was hooked, but about a third of the way in I lost focus completely. Violet was 26 and I couldn't relate to her level of innocence at all. If her age had not been divulged, I would've guessed she was about 17 or 18 judging by her maturity. Frankie was integral to Violet meeting Luke, but she seemed to only re-appear when convenient for a plot twist or further drama. Luke will not be making it onto my book boyfriend list. I didn't find him charming or anything redeeming about him. He seemed to do a 180 too quickly for it to be believable from going to having one night stands to being devoted to Violet, even though we did get some mental battle.
'"He beat York off the line and stayed ahead the whole race."
"That's good, right?"'
Is she serious?! Pretty sure everyone knows the person who stays ahead in a race wins!
POV: Dual POV can work really well... or be detrimental to the story. Sadly, in this case it was the latter. There was no added value having the insight into Luke's mind and the writing was not distinct enough to differentiate between characters. A reader should be able to tell who's POV it is without being told IMO. This is a common find among the female writers and although it probably doesn't bother 99% of readers, it's one of my pet hates. The thought process and mind of a male is entirely different to that of a female, and Luke showed too many female thinking patterns.
Romance: The initial chemistry between the pair drew me in and was electric. But then it all sort of fell by the wayside and felt strongly amateur. I cringed at most latter conversations or romantic scenarios between them both and sped read a lot of the remainder of the book. Luke calls Violet "Princess" throughout, but way too often for it to be endearing.
There was a lot of pages of pure dialogue that held no meaning or substance. With this, there was also a lot of tell after the reader was shown. Authors need to have faith in their readers picking up on subtle nuances and double-meanings rather than over explaining everything.
If the main characters are late twenties to thirties, I expect some maturity and advance in the writing style. I felt like I was older than them all in this book and it made me lose interest.
Overall:
I wouldn't recommend this book. There were too many minor issues for me that disrupted the effect of the story and I couldn't get swept up in their romance. However, majority of people are giving this 5 stars, so if the issues listed don't bother you, than maybe it will be your sort of thing.
See more of my reviews here
April 23, 2016
Winter Travers has done it again. Only this time it's not a hot MC she is writing about it's fast cars, beautiful women and a trio of hot hot brothers. Downshift is the debut book to a new series called Skid Row Kings. Downshift starts out fast and continues to fire on all cylinders right up to the end.
Luke and Violets story starts out rocky but after Luke does some thinking he realizes that Violet is just what he needs. But after hurting Violet he has his work cut out for him. Luke is not acustomed to losing so he pulls out all the stops to win her over. Luke and Violets story becomes one of love, trust, compassion, and caring. It was very enjoyable to watch Luke and Violet fall hard and fast for one another. While I smiled pretty much through this entire book there are also those touching, moving moments that have you feeling the emotion of the story. And whle this is Luke and Violets story we are also introduced to Lukes two brothers Kurt and Mitch. This reader can not wait for their stories. These two were a laugh a minute and their hyjinks and escapeds had me laughing out loud. Luke also has a sister named Frankie. She is lost and not sure where she fits in with this family of brothers and I just wanted to hug her. She is also the reason Luke and Violet meet. Then there is LeeLee. I instantly feel in love with this smart mouthed, take no prisoners dynamo and can't wait for her story.
Downshift was an exceptional start to a new series and I'm anxiuos to read more.
Luke and Violets story starts out rocky but after Luke does some thinking he realizes that Violet is just what he needs. But after hurting Violet he has his work cut out for him. Luke is not acustomed to losing so he pulls out all the stops to win her over. Luke and Violets story becomes one of love, trust, compassion, and caring. It was very enjoyable to watch Luke and Violet fall hard and fast for one another. While I smiled pretty much through this entire book there are also those touching, moving moments that have you feeling the emotion of the story. And whle this is Luke and Violets story we are also introduced to Lukes two brothers Kurt and Mitch. This reader can not wait for their stories. These two were a laugh a minute and their hyjinks and escapeds had me laughing out loud. Luke also has a sister named Frankie. She is lost and not sure where she fits in with this family of brothers and I just wanted to hug her. She is also the reason Luke and Violet meet. Then there is LeeLee. I instantly feel in love with this smart mouthed, take no prisoners dynamo and can't wait for her story.
Downshift was an exceptional start to a new series and I'm anxiuos to read more.
January 14, 2017
I really enjoyed this. Luke was living the life of a single man working non stop to get his garage up and running when suddenly he was the guardian of his 14 year old sister and his two adult brothers living with him.....and he wouldn't have it any other way. One thing Luke really enjoys is cars and racing - it's in his blood. Violet is alone in the world. She works and she reads! She enjoys her job as a librarian even if she is sometimes bored. Violet notices a young girl that seems to be at the library every afternoon. One rainy evening the young lady's ride fails to show so Violet offers her a ride home....Thus Luke and Violet meet. Assumptions are made and these two do no get off on the right foot at all. This rest is the story.
This was my first Winter read and I'll immediately be jumping into book 2!
This was my first Winter read and I'll immediately be jumping into book 2!
June 14, 2016
I loved this book! Luke is the whole package, he is hot, sexy and a race car driver! Violet is a sweet and beautiful Librarian. She meets Frankie (Luke's little sister) when Luke forgot to pick his sister up. The first time she meets Luke, they dislike each other. After they both get to know each other, they realize that their first impressions was so wrong. They are so great together. There isn't one thing about this book that disappointed me. I loved Downshift from the first page to the last. You have to buy this book. What are you waiting for? Go get it NOW! lol I can't wait to read Mitch's story.
April 24, 2016
I received an Arc for an honest review.
I absolutely love this authors books. Her writing style is engaging and with each book it gets better and better.
This is a different type of genre from what she's written before but equally as good.
The main characters are strong Alpha's and have you engaged almost from the first page. Lucas is a strong man but floundering under the burden he feels being the eldest and in charge of his younger sister. What follows is an unique story told from different perspectives. I can see me falling for each brother throughout this series. Way to go Winter another great book.
I absolutely love this authors books. Her writing style is engaging and with each book it gets better and better.
This is a different type of genre from what she's written before but equally as good.
The main characters are strong Alpha's and have you engaged almost from the first page. Lucas is a strong man but floundering under the burden he feels being the eldest and in charge of his younger sister. What follows is an unique story told from different perspectives. I can see me falling for each brother throughout this series. Way to go Winter another great book.
April 24, 2016
This is a new series by Winter Travers. Her previous series was MC based, those books are great. If this first book is an indication of the quality of the continuing books, she has a great new series. Her writing flows along so effortlessly it's amazing. Three brothers one little sister should give us the readers some great stories to look forward to. This book is about the oldest brother Luke and Violet the shy librarian, street racing, jealousy from old foes and dealing with the loss of much loved parents. Love this book, love the author, definitely recommend this book.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2016
Given ARC in exchange for review
The first book in the new series from Winter is a great read that you will love and struggle to put down, the pace of the story was brilliant it did not feel like it was rushed or trying to cram too much into the story. Downshift is a great setup for what looks like being another brilliant series from a great author, although the book is about Luke and Violet we are also introduced to other characters that I for one want to read more about and also more Luke and Violet please. .
The first book in the new series from Winter is a great read that you will love and struggle to put down, the pace of the story was brilliant it did not feel like it was rushed or trying to cram too much into the story. Downshift is a great setup for what looks like being another brilliant series from a great author, although the book is about Luke and Violet we are also introduced to other characters that I for one want to read more about and also more Luke and Violet please. .
April 25, 2016
I was lucky and received an ARC!!! WOW!!! This is another great book by Winter and it will be another great series. Don't let the fact that this is a book about racing and if you don't know anything about cars scare you. It is explained along the way and you aren't lost to what's happening. The story line keeps you entertained and wanting more. This, I'm sure, isn't the end of Violet and Luke's story. It does end with a teenie tiny cliff hanger.....but not about this book. It's what to come for the next book!!!! I can't wait. Well done Winter
May 8, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Solidly fantastic stars.
I was my expecting this book to be so good without all my yummy sexy fun. But what Winter does is makes you love each and every character so that the lack of over the top steamy scenes are not missed. What your left with is a crazy good story and a need to read the next book in the series. It's got a yummy alpha male who races cars and is good with his hands. A h who is sweet and actually likable who also can hold her own against others. Gotta love a h who isn't a doormat.
I was my expecting this book to be so good without all my yummy sexy fun. But what Winter does is makes you love each and every character so that the lack of over the top steamy scenes are not missed. What your left with is a crazy good story and a need to read the next book in the series. It's got a yummy alpha male who races cars and is good with his hands. A h who is sweet and actually likable who also can hold her own against others. Gotta love a h who isn't a doormat.
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