Balancing Act (The Heights, #1)
by Paula Chase
"Balancing Act" by Paula Chase, which I received
as an eARC from St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley, is a compelling blend of
classic coming-of-age themes and modern storytelling. The novel stands out for
its creative use of social media posts, which highlight the drama and public
pressures faced by the characters.
While the story centers on competition and the drive to
succeed in high school sports, it goes much deeper. Chase portrays the
realities of growing up in diverse neighborhoods, the pain of grief after
losing someone young, and the sadness that shapes adolescence. The book also
explores the complicated landscape of friendships—especially the challenge of
dealing with frenemies. Through nuanced storytelling, Chase reveals that even
rivals and so-called adversaries have their own struggles and moments of unexpected
kindness. The characters gradually learn that people are rarely just one thing,
and that even those who seem unfriendly can surprise you with their depth and
decency.
The writing is engaging and the characters feel real, their
vulnerabilities and hopes shining through. While the novel tackles tough
topics, it remains relatable and grounded, balancing humor and hope with its
more serious undertones.
If there’s one drawback, it’s the abrupt ending—a reminder
that this is the first book in a series. Despite this, I’m eager for the sequel
to see where these vivid characters go next.
"Balancing Act" releases on October 21, 2025. I
highly recommend it to anyone interested in contemporary young adult fiction
that doesn’t shy away from real-life challenges, including the pain of loss,
the complexity of relationships, and the resilience required to move forward.
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