Title: Carrie Soto Is Back

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

Release Date: August 30, 2022

Length: 369 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

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***My Review***

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest book, “Carrie Soto Is Back,” tells the inspiring story of a tennis champion who overcomes injury and personal obstacles to make a comeback.

In the beginning, we meet a woman who has faced adversity and come out on top. Carrie was raised by her father after her mother passed away, and from a young age, she found her passion in tennis. With her father as her coach, she practiced tirelessly and eventually made her way to the top of the sport. She was known as the Battle Axe, a fierce and unstoppable force on the court.

But then, a knee injury threatened to end Carrie’s career. She thought she was done, that her dreams of being a tennis champion were over. But now, after years of hard work and determination, she is ready to make a comeback. She knows that people talk trash about her, call her names, and doubt her ability to succeed. But nothing is going to stop her from proving them wrong and showing that she is still the best.

This book encompassed everything, and it was a masterpiece in how it portrayed a character who initially came across as unlikeable but gradually won over the reader’s affection. As a newcomer to Taylor Jenkins Reid’s work, I had a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this book. She made me cry, and few authors have the power to move me in such a way. That’s how fantastic this book is.

As a reader, I loved every single page of this book. Even though I am not a big tennis fan, I was drawn into Carrie’s story from the very beginning. She was a fierce competitor, with a drive and determination that I admired. I loved how she was strong and unafraid to show it, even in the face of adversity. Throughout the book, I found myself rooting for her, cheering her on as she fought her way to the top once again.

One of the things that stood out to me about this book was the masterful way in which Reid created her characters. Carrie Soto, in particular, was a fascinating character with many layers. She was complex and multifaceted, with a strong personality and a deep love for the sport of tennis. Even though I knew nothing about tennis, I found myself completely invested in her story and her journey to the top.

Another thing that I appreciated about “Carrie Soto Is Back” was the way in which it addressed the challenges faced by women in sports during the late 1980s and mid-1990s. This was a time when women’s sports lacked the same level of attention and recognition as men’s sports, and there were many issues that needed to be addressed. Reid skillfully wove these issues into Carrie’s story, creating a narrative that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

As I read the book, I felt like I was right there with Carrie on the court, cheering her on during her matches at the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. The tournament play-by-play was gripping and immersive, and I found myself completely absorbed in each and every match. I couldn’t put the book down, and I would sneak in a chapter whenever I had a spare moment.

There were moments when I didn’t like Carrie very much. She was single-minded and focused solely on winning, even if it meant mowing down anyone in her way. But I understood that in the world of sports, being the best has nothing to do with being liked or being a nice person. Carrie was a force to be reckoned with, and that’s what made her story so compelling.

Furthermore, the book explores a range of issues that were relevant to women’s sports during the time period it is set in, adding an extra layer of depth to Carrie’s character. Despite her flaws, Carrie is a complex and fascinating character who represents the sacrifices necessary to become a champion.

Overall, “Carrie Soto Is Back” is a triumph of determination and willpower. It’s a great book for tennis fans, but it’s also a great book for anyone who loves a good underdog story. Carrie’s journey to the top is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance, and I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspiring and engaging read.