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"Audrey 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?"--Page [2] of cover.… (more)
User reviews
I tend to really enjoy books around gymnastics! I was excited for this one, but I was not expecting the story to take the turns that it did. It was a little like a spin off on what is going on in the real world of US Gymnastics today. This does have triggers for sexual abuse. It did not
I was expecting to learn more around Audrey and her injury. The story references her injury and the pain she is suffering throughout, but I would have liked to start the story with a little around her injury/recovery.
One thing that really irritated me was how the story continuously noted how horrible Audrey was doing during her competitions and practice. She would constantly say how she knew she was the worst on the team or messing up. She made the Olympic team! She cannot be that horrible! I also hate that she was only winning at first during due to her teammates messing up.
I absolutely loved how all of the girls from the different counties come together for the American team. I actually teared up during this moment! Again, this is very real to what is going on so it just hit harder than it normally would.
This does have a ton of actual gymnastics in it as well. There was almost a little too much for me which is something I never thought I would say. It dragged on a little too much for me as the competitions were very detailed. I know others will love this though.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one.
I admired the way Audrey stepped into a leadership role and showed what it really means to be a captain of a team. I loved the solidarity they showed, not only to each other but to the other gymnasts competing for an Olympic gold medal. On more than one occasion I had tears in my eyes, especially in the last quarter of the novel.
I also liked the romance between Leo and Audrey. It was sweet but it didn't take away from the rest of the story. Leo's mother, Janet, was an inspiring character and I appreciated how she cared for the girls' wellbeing and not their success. It's a pity there are not more coaches like this in sport.
The routines at the Olympics were nail-biting and my heart was in my throat every time Emma, Audrey, Dani and Chelsea were competing. The detailed descriptions of the routines were compelling. So much was at stake and the slightest mistake could destroy the girls' dreams. The tension was palpable and I was as nervous as the girls were when their scores were announced.
"Break the Fall" was a thought-provoking novel which celebrated female friendships and sisterhood. A great read!