Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher and netgalley. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: Breath Like Water

Author: Anna Jarzab

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 5/5

Diversity: bipolar disorder openly discussed!

Publication Date: May 19, 2020

Genre: YA Contemporary

Recommended Age: 15+ (verbal abuse, competitive swimming, mental health, language)

Publisher: Inkyard Press

Pages: 416

Amazon Link

Synopsis: Susannah Ramos has always loved the water. A swimmer whose early talent made her a world champion, Susannah was poised for greatness in a sport that demands so much of its young. But an inexplicable slowdown has put her dream in jeopardy, and Susannah is fighting to keep her career afloat when two important people enter her life: a new coach with a revolutionary training strategy, and a charming fellow swimmer named Harry Matthews.

As Susannah begins her long and painful climb back to the top, her friendship with Harry blossoms into passionate and supportive love. But Harry is facing challenges of his own, and even as their bond draws them closer together, other forces work to tear them apart. As she struggles to balance her needs with those of the people who matter most to her, Susannah will learn the cost—and the beauty—of trying to achieve something extraordinary.

Review: This was such a sweet book! I really loved the character development, the story, and the world building. I never knew how competitive swimming could be, as I grew up in a rural school with no swimming teams. The characters were the lifeline of the story. They really made the story progress and enjoyable. The storyline was intriguing, and the detail the author incorporated was amazing.

The only issue I had with the book is that the pacing was slow in my opinion. I just wish it was a bit faster.

Verdict: It was a great read!