Review by Saskia Kabongo of "Carrie Soto Is Back" by Taylor Jenkins Reid

 

After reading several of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s books and feeling deeply moved, I knew Carrie Soto Is Back would be something special, and it absolutely was. This is a gripping, inspiring story about passion, resilience, and proving that you are never too old to fight for what you love. 

Carrie Soto was once the greatest tennis player in the world. With her father as her coach, she dominated the sport in her prime, adored by fans and feared by rivals. But after 20 years of retirement, she makes the bold decision to return even though she knows that all eyes are on her, waiting to see if she will fail. Can she reclaim her title? Or will she embarrass herself on the world’s biggest stage? 

This book is about so much more than tennis. It’s about a woman refusing to let age, doubt, or the press dictate her limits. Carrie faces relentless criticism, particularly from a media that is far harsher on female athletes than their male counterparts. The novel highlights the double standards women endure in sports and the way strength and ambition are celebrated in men but scrutinized in women. Yet Carrie refuses to back down. Old rivals don’t stop her. Her age doesn’t stop her. She pushes forward with an unshakable belief in herself, showing that women can do anything. 

The heart of the story, though, is the relationship between Carrie and her father, Javier. Their bond is beautiful as he is her biggest supporter, her toughest critic, and her rock through every high and low. Carrie not only pushes herself, but she also helps her father find a new purpose after the loss of her mother, reminding him to live fully. Their dynamic adds so much emotional depth to the novel, making it more than just a sports story, it’s a testament to love, family, and perseverance. 

The tennis matches had me biting my nails, completely absorbed in every point, every setback, and every comeback. This book is electrifying, emotional, and deeply motivating. It reminds us to be bold, be brave, and chase our dreams without apology. One of the most powerful quotes from the book is: “The only thing you can do in this life is try your best. And when that doesn’t work, you try again. And again. And again." 

Carrie Soto Is Back is a must-read for anyone who has ever fought for something they love. It’s a story of grit, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of a woman who refuses to be counted out. 

About the reviewer
Saskia Kabongo is a first-year journalism student at the University of Leicester with aspirations of becoming an author and publisher. A passionate reader, she consumes around 200 books a year, constantly seeking stories that inspire and challenge her. Growing up in London, she draws endless inspiration from the city's people and narratives. Her favorite authors, Krista and Becca Ritchie, are known for their deeply authentic characters and unique storytelling, which she believes make every book feel like a reality TV show come to life.