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 Break the Fall

“Break the Fall is the YA gymnastics novel of my dreams, and the very human drama at the center grabbed me as Audrey Lee learns what it means to be a friend and how to stand up for what’s right. I couldn’t put it down!” —Alicia Thompson, author of Psych Major Syndrome and co-author of the Go-for-Gold Gymnastsseries

“I flew through this book. I was rooting for Audrey and the rest of Team USA the whole time—for their health, for their friendship, and of course for their gymnastics. Reading Break the Fall is the closest I’ve ever come to the thrill of competing at the Olympics—and I didn’t even have to do a single push-up to get here.” —Leila Sales, author of This Song Will Save Your Life

“A fast-paced drama packed with big emotional stakes.” —Jenn Bennett, author of Alex, Approximately

Audrey Lee’s journey to the Olympics is nothing short of amazing. Just a year ago, she was recovering from a spine surgery that could have left her paralyzed. At that time, even a simple push-up seemed like an insurmountable challenge.

But now, she has not only made it to the United States gymnastics team but also achieved her childhood dream alongside her best friend, Emma. The exhilaration and satisfaction she feels are indescribable.

However, Audrey’s path to success is not without its obstacles. Just when everything seems to be falling into place, devastating news shatters the team’s unity. Audrey finds herself in a difficult position as she witnesses her teammate being hurt by someone they trusted implicitly.

Determined to stand up for her friend, Audrey faces resistance from some of her fellow gymnasts who are not as supportive. The pressure to maintain perfection becomes even more intense, threatening to tear the team apart.

Amidst the chaos, Audrey finds solace in Leo, the son of her new coach. Leo’s presence brings a much-needed ray of sunshine to her training. He is not only ridiculously cute but also a source of support and encouragement. Although Audrey knows she should focus solely on the games and not let distractions get in her way, the possibility of a romantic connection with Leo lingers in her mind.

As she navigates the delicate balance between her teammates’ dynamics and the weight of expectations, Audrey remains determined to keep her team’s spirits high. With revelations, challenges, and the constant fear of failure, Audrey’s unwavering determination will be put to the ultimate test.

“An uplifting quest for Olympic victory.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Readers will enjoy both the serious and sensitive discussion around sexual assault, as well as the story’s more lighthearted topics of crushes, team dynamics, and the mechanics of gymnastics.” —Booklist

“A fraught behind-the-scenes look at the lives of young Olympic hopefuls. Particularly compelling is the international female gymnasts’ demonstration of unity against sexual harassment, a show of empowerment in every arena.” —Publishers Weekly

“You will feel every tense bead of sweat, every nagging injury, every surge of adrenaline in Jennifer Iacopelli’s superb gymnastics novel Break the Fall. You will also feel the tingle of first love, the heartbreak of innocence lost, and the overwhelming joy that comes from diving into your dream, head first, and giving it all you have got. Most of all you will fall in love with honest, brave Audrey Lee and her super-shero squad—Emma, Dani, and Chelsea, and wish they were yours too. 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
 
“With an insider’s eye, Jennifer Iacopelli pulls back the curtain on the world’s most talented athletes, whose hard work and incredible skills are often overlooked because of their unique ability to make the impossible look so easy. The result is sporty, soapy, and addictive.” —Sarah Henning, author of Throw Like a Girl and the Sea Witch duology

Jennifer Iacopelli:

Born and raised in the bustling city of New York, Jennifer Iacopelli has always had a deep-rooted love for her hometown. With no intention of ever leaving, she embraces the vibrant energy and endless opportunities that the city has to offer. From the moment she could read, Jennifer immersed herself in a world of literature, devouring every book she could lay her hands on. However, it was the works of L.M. Montgomery and Frances Hodgson Burnett that truly opened her imagination. These outstanding authors introduced her to a world of strong, independent female characters long before it became a popular trend.

Jennifer’s passion for literature led her to pursue a career as a high school librarian. Every day, she finds joy in interacting with her students, sharing her love for books, and guiding them toward new literary adventures. Surrounded by shelves filled with stories waiting to be discovered, Jennifer’s role as a librarian allows her to foster a love for reading in young minds. But her dedication to literature doesn’t end there. After the school day comes to a close, she retreats to her writing sanctuary, where she weaves her tales of adventure and inspiration.

When the sun sets and the city lights illuminate the skyline, Jennifer’s allegiance lies with the New York Yankees. As a devoted fan, she cheers on her beloved team, feeling the excitement and camaraderie that comes with being part of a passionate fan base. Whether it’s the crack of the bat or the roar of the crowd, Jennifer finds solace and inspiration in the world of baseball. Through her writing and her unwavering support for her team, she embodies the spirit of determination and perseverance that defines both her favorite authors and the kick-butt girls they wrote about. Follow Jennifer on Twitter @jennifercarolyn to join her on her literary and baseball adventures.