Young Adult Contemporary
Date Published: 09-26-2024
Publisher: Black Rose Writing
Do you know what it’s like to win an Olympic gold, then have it stripped
away? I do.
Gold is every figure skater’s life dream. At fifteen, I experienced the
thrill of wearing the medal for a few minutes until judges accuse me of
being too young to be eligible. That’s when I realize my father’s ultimate
lie could cost more than my title.
During our daring escape from Russia, I pressure my coach to tell the truth
about my adoption. But the quad combination and two world titles aren’t
enough to keep the scandal from erasing my career and identity. Disgraced,
disqualified, and devastated, I can’t face a rink, fans, or daily life. My
controlling dad’s betrayal lights a fire to break free from his bad
decisions. My best friend and a journalist who will tell my story step in to
stop the downward spiral and help me uncover my past.
The story of Docia’s fierce determination to discover her true identity,
unerase her career, and find the passion to skate again will engage teen
readers, figure skating fans, and anyone who’s ever experience betrayal from
someone close.
EXCERPT
“He’s trying to help you.” Her voice switches from authoritative to desperate. “He’s still your father. He cares about you.”
“Funny way to show it.”
“That’s not fair, Docia. He has given up so much for you.”
“Yeah, like what? And ruined my life in the process. You’re not even my real parents. I’ll find them so you don’t have to worry about me anymore.”
There’s no usual cheerful response. In fact, Mom says nothing. Her mouth goes from gaping open to shut. The muscles in her face tighten when she clamps her teeth together. Then she walks away, leaving me looking down from the top of the stairs.
I slam my door, lie on my bed, and squeeze my stuffed penguin, Fred. The fiery orange sun peers through my window and hovers above the horizon. As it slips away, the words Lily said as we left the rink replay in my head. “It’s time to face this.”
How can I? I’ve done nothing on my own. Mom tells me when to study, when to eat, when to sleep. Lena makes every skating decision—when to practice and how long, ballet, strength training, programs, music. And Dad’s like a symphony conductor who directs it all. He tells me what to think, who to trust, what to strive for. I always do as I’m told. When I do, everyone’s happy.
They lied to me. Ripped away everything I knew. My parents. My country. Everything I am. They left me on a giant empty stage for everyone to stare at. The imaginary crowd laughs at me, “Look at the fake. What a freak!”
I squeeze Fred as an ache sets into the pit of my stomach. How do I know who to trust anymore? Who can help me show I did nothing wrong? Prove I’m not an imposter?
About the Author
Addison Brae lives in Dallas, Texas on the edge of downtown. As a child,
she was constantly in trouble for hiding under the bed to read when she was
supposed to be napping. She has been writing since childhood starting with
diaries, letters, and short stories. She now writes new adult and adult
speculative and romantic suspense, and young adult contemporary fiction.
Addison’s still addicted to reading and enjoys jogging in her
neighborhood park, binge-watching TV series, vintage clothing, and hanging
out with her artistic other half and their geriatric kitten Lucy.
Contact Links
Purchase Links
