"Shark Heart" by Rebecca Denton is a gripping and heart-wrenching story that follows the journey of 16-year-old Anna as she navigates the world of competitive swimming and deals with the pressures of family expectations, friendship struggles, and first love.
The author does a fantastic job of immersing the reader in the intense and cutthroat world of elite swimming, painting a vivid picture of the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed in the sport. Anna's struggles with her own self-doubt and insecurities are relatable and endearing, making her a character that readers will root for from the very beginning.
The romance between Anna and fellow swimmer Will adds an extra layer of depth to the story, as they both navigate their feelings for each other while also dealing with their own personal demons. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable, and their interactions are both tender and raw.
Overall, "Shark Heart" is a captivating and emotional read that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to succeed or struggled with self-acceptance. Denton's writing is both poignant and powerful, and she does an excellent job of capturing the highs and lows of teenage life. I highly recommend this book to fans of contemporary YA fiction.