Break the Fall
Books | Young Adult Fiction / Sports & Recreation / Gymnastics
4.2
Jennifer Iacopelli
"This book makes you understand exactly what it is like to compete as a woman at the highest level in sport, and it is exhilarating and satisfying indeed." --Holly Sorensen, Television Creator/Showrunner, Make it or Break It, Step Up: High WaterAudrey Lee is going to the Olympics.A year ago, she could barely do a push up as she recovered from a spine surgery, one that could have paralyzed her. And now? She's made the United States gymnastics team with her best friend, Emma, just like they both dreamed about since they were kids. She's on top of the world.The pressure for perfection is higher than ever when horrifying news rips the team apart. Audrey is desperate to advocate for her teammate who has been hurt by the one person they trusted most--but not all the gymnasts are as supportive.With the team on the verge of collapse, the one bright spot in training is Leo, her new coach's ridiculously cute son. And while Audrey probably (okay, definitely) shouldn't date him until after the games, would it really be the end of the world?Balancing the tenuous relationship between her teammates with unparalleled expectations, Audrey doesn't need any more distractions. No matter what it takes, she's not going to let anyone bring them down. But with painful revelations, incredible odds, and the very real possibility of falling at every turn, will Audrey's determination be enough?
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Author
Jennifer Iacopelli
Pages
336
Publisher
Penguin
Published Date
2020-02-18
ISBN
0593114183 9780593114186
Community ReviewsSee all
"This book was intense from beginning to end. A total nail biter. The sexual assault elements were heavy and emotional, but they were an integral piece of the story. Following the girls on their journey to the Tokyo Olympics was amazing. So much talent and passion was displayed at each turn. Amazing!"
Rhiannon Rabby
"When I began the book, I felt a bit underwhelmed by the plot and the characters, but once they get to the Olympics, I was hooked. They would show the scores and I would try to cover them so as not to spoil the rankings--I found the scenes of the routines descriptive and really put me in the moment. I felt the sexual assault and grooming was handled well--maybe could've been more focused on it, but since Audrey is the main character makes sense it's a bit to the back. <br/><br/>I am neither a patriotic person or a sports person, but for some reason the Olympics turns me into both, so that also comes into play for me getting swept into the camaraderie of these girls coming together, both within their team and even with the other countries' teams. Audrey even comments how she isn't patriotic either but when she hears the national anthem on the podium it hits her, and same, girl. I did feel the romance wasn't necessary, but luckily didn't take up too much of the plot."
Liesl Prentice
