Review: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
As a long-time admirer of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s unforgettable characters and immersive storytelling, I was eagerly awaiting Carrie Soto Is Back. The title alone sparked intrigue, and I couldn’t resist the urge to dive into this compelling saga of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. In a world where sports fiction can often feel niche, Reid manages to capture not just the essence of tennis, but also the raw emotions and complex journeys of her characters.
At the heart of the novel lies Carrie Soto—brilliantly flawed yet undeniably fierce. From the moment she bursts onto the page, her relentless drive pops with intensity. Carrie is a tennis prodigy sprinkled with ice-queen bravado, chasing records while wrestling with her insecurities and deep-seated fears of abandonment. Like Reid’s previous heroines—Daisy, Evelyn, and Nina—Carrie demands your empathy while simultaneously challenging you to grapple with your opinions of her. There’s something enchantingly complex about a character you can both root for and resent.
Reid brings Carrie’s world to life with electric pacing, seamlessly intertwining the thrill of the game with the nuances of personal growth. As a reader, I felt the rush of each tennis match as if I were court side, cheering wildly for her triumphs and cringing through her setbacks. There’s a palpable tension laced through the chapters, each one leaving you on the edge of your seat, heart racing, prayerfully hoping that Carrie will reclaim her title. The writing style is not just engaging; it’s practically an invitation to experience the adrenaline of competitive sports firsthand.
One of the standout elements for me was the camaraderie and tension developed between Carrie and her former flame, Bowe Huntley. Their chemistry adds depth, making the journey of self-discovery not just about sports, but about love, trust, and vulnerability. “Maybe becoming the best is subjective,” Carrie muses, a realization that echoes throughout the story and resonates deeply with readers.
I also adored the crossovers with characters from Reid’s previous works, seamlessly blending their narratives into Carrie’s story and enriching the experience for avid fans. Javi Soto, Carrie’s father, is a character who steals the spotlight—his wisdom and unconditional support ground Carrie as she navigates the tempest of her career and the relationships around her.
For those who may not be aficionados of tennis, fear not! Reid’s ability to demystify the game is magical, making each serve and volley accessible, even for inexperienced readers. By the end, I found myself not only invested in Carrie’s journey but also a newfound fan of tennis, eager to learn more about its intricacies.
Carrie Soto Is Back is more than just a sports novel; it’s a story of tenacity, identity, and rediscovery. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking stories full of emotional depth, thrilling drama, and strong female protagonists. If you’ve ever wrestled with what defines your worth or feel like you’re chasing after an elusive dream, Carrie’s journey will resonate with you.
In short, this book deserves all five shiny stars, and it will linger in my heart long after the final page. Thank you, NetGalley and Random House, for this captivating read that took me on a whirlwind ride through ambition, self-doubt, and love. Dive into this gem—you won’t be disappointed!
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