BRACE FOR IMPACT

In this memoir full of grief, rage, and the healing power of the queer community, Gabe Montesanti recounts how joining a roller derby team helped her face childhood traumas, disordered eating, and her relationship with her emotionally abusive mother. Her narration is full of compassion, especially for her younger self who couldn't process what was happening to her, let alone heal. Though this audiobook is painful to listen to at times, Montesanti's strength, determination, and love for her partner and teammates and her emerging joy in her body are also ever-present in her voice. She brings every fast-paced derby bout to life, and she isn't afraid to let fear, exhaustion, and pain seep into her voice when describing a serious injury. This moving audiobook is not without a share of fun. L.S. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2022]