OFF EDGE – new release!
Much like the world of figure skating itself, Off Edge immediately immerses the reader in action and drama. The protagonist’s story is one of self-discovery and empowerment, including a candid look at the struggles and mistakes that must be endured along the journey. For young adult readers, the topics are on point – we all yearn to discover who we really are, understand where we fit, and obtain knowledge of self. As an adopted Olympic figure skater myself, I can candidly say that this book hit home. Enjoy! It’s a spicy story. – Aaron Parchem, U.S. Olympian and Former Pairs Skater
Filled with secrets, suspense, and a dash of romance, Off Edge will have you rooting for Docia as she struggles to choreograph a life of her own choosing—on and off the ice. Addison Brae has landed a winner! – Dorian Cirrone, award-winning author of The First Last Day
…a powerful and mature young heroine in Docia, who learns she cannot just stand up, but can leap and spin above all others – for herself and those most important to her. Off Edge is perched on the highest podium of great YA reads. – J. Ivanel Johnson, award-winning author & former high school teacher/coach
Off Edge is an easy-to-read YA, a captivating page-turner. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Docia bloom, and highly recommend this uplifting and motivating tale. – Maya Tyler, author of The Magicals Series
This is a page-turner. Addison Brae puts the reader inside the skating/Olympics world with strong characters and a moving story. – 5* reader review (excerpt)
Off Edge is an emotionally engaging coming-of-age story about a young athlete who must learn to stand up and fight for what’s right after a devastating challenge. Brae’s skating descriptions are so vivid I felt like I was out on the ice with Docia. And I don’t even skate! – Sharon Skinner, Award-winning author and certified Book Coach
TEN stars!! Loved this Story! Absolutely LOVED reading Off Edge! There were so many plot twists I didn’t see coming! I love it when the author can do that, especially so seamlessly! Docia’s journey tugs at your heartstrings and you’re rooting for her all the way to the last page! Wonderful book! – 5* reader review
I love watching figure skating ⛸️ it’s so graceful and full of passion. This is a story that captures all that passion and beauty. Docia was such an amazing character, you feel her joy and her pain in this book. We also get a little romance 🥰 a daring escape and a twist that was a little unexpected, but a nice surprise. Told from Docia’s point of view. Her emotions are put on display. Her resilience, her determination and her willingness to fight for what was done to her. So, if you like skating/mystery or even just a new book/author to read, then grab this book. – Julie B., The Reading Cafe
Any skate fans will absolutely love this book – there aren’t many for the sport at the top level. I love to see a YA heroine like Docia, someone that fans can and should look up to, who inspires others to be all they can be. Addison Brae gives us a fantastic read, of true friends, family dynamics, and a girl coming of age in the totally modern world. OFF EDGE deserves the gold. – excerpt from Clare O’Beara, Fresh Fiction
A simply awe-inspiring story. Addison Brae writes a dramatic coming-of-age YA tale with Off Edge. The characters are so real, it’s like being with them within the story. This journey was very unpredictable for both Docia and this reader. I recommend that readers of all ages read this book. Sometimes adults should sit back and remember what it was like to be a kid, and whatever their child may be going through. Off Edge is a definite recommendation by Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews. – 4* review excerpt from Amy, Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews @amysbookshelfreviews
Addison Brae’s Off Edge brings mystery, intrigue, and suspense to ice skating like Megan Abbott’s You Will Know Me did for gymnastics! Brae pens the story of Docia, a young figure skating prodigy whose life is shattered when her Olympic gold medal is stripped for reasons beyond her control. This young adult page-turner deep dives into Docia’s journey of self-discovery and resilience as she uncovers hidden truths about her past, faces the emotional fallout of a father she can’t trust, and fights to reclaim her identity both on and off the ice. This maelstrom of emotions and fast-paced tale is a must-read for lovers of stories about determination and overcoming personal challenges. – 5* review from author Cam Torrens
Thrilling. What an adventure she went on. I liked the writing of the story. You could almost feel it. It was intense. The characters were written very well. They had unique personalities that fit where needed. Great story. – 5* reader review from Madi30
Immersive, empowering, and inspiring ~ un-put-downable ~ Loved it!
What I liked:
* Docia: athlete, strong, focused, talented, figure skater, adopted, learns, grows, matures, and becomes empowered as the story progresses
* Lily: Docia’s best friend, cheerleader – in more ways than one, supportive, caring, kind, good friend
* Diego: athlete, gentle, warm, attracted to Docia, positive, boyfriend by the end of the story
* The plot, pacing, setting and writing
* That I felt part of the story and cared about the outcome
* The complexity of the storyline that looked at issues like adoption, controlling parents, fans, being a role model, health, finding oneself, decision-making both good and bad, and solving problems
* That it was age-appropriate and felt perfect for NA/YA readers
* That the threads of the story came together at the end leaving me pleased with the future that I could see ahead of Docia and her mother
* Thinking about the time and effort that goes into becoming an athlete and the dedication, persistence, and strength required to become a “star”
* Thinking about what might lie in the future for Docia and her friends
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about parents who put winning ahead of their children’s welfare
* Knowing that bullying, abuse, bad press, rumors, and lies can do both mental and physical damage
Did I like this book? Yes. Would I read more by this author? Yes. – 5* review from Cathy Geha
What an adventure she went on. I liked the writing of the story. You could almost feel it. It was intense. The characters were written very well. They had unique personalities that fit where needed. Great story. – 5* reader review from Madison
Off Edge should very much be a movie, and it’s written with such realistic detail and emotion that it could be a biopic. This is so much more than a story about betrayal, it’s a story about identity and believing in yourself. – 5* author review from Kimberly
A compelling story. Docia has a lot to contend with: the pressures of Olympic competition, an overbearing father, a loving but addicted mother, an ex-boyfriend who she thinks hates her, and a fellow skater who’s the exact opposite of a team player. As if that wasn’t enough to throw a 15-year-old girl into a state of perpetual anxiety, she’s been stripped of her hard-earned gold medal for a reason that throws her world into chaos. OFF EDGE is a fast-paced and compelling story of secrets, betrayal, and family drama, set against the fascinating backdrop of world-class figure skating. – 5* author review from Regina Buttner, Author of The Revenge Paradox
Off Edge is a story of not only overcoming obstacles but also finding yourself along the way. Docia is a typical teen in many ways, but her determination and grit really shine through. The authenticity of the figure skating world came through in Addison Brae’s writing. On another note, the deeper issues of feeling like she doesn’t know who she truly is heighten the stakes. I truly felt for Docia during her journey, I got her frustration and anger and rooted for her. The book was easy to connect to and kept its flow the whole way. – blogger review (excerpt) by The Indie Express
Being adopted helped me identify with a few things. This is an enjoyable story yet at times a very emotional one. I turned the pages fairly fast trying to read what would happen to Docia, a young talented athlete with a very overbearing father. One of those “winning is everything” types. There is a lot involved in this story. Layer after layer of athletics, threats, hidden secrets, and more. Being adopted, it helped me identify with a few things. This story almost seems like non-fiction in some ways. I suppose because the Olympics are coming up and there is so much pressure on our athletes. This also had a feeling of mystery. While there are many layers, it is never unclear “who is who” so to speak. The story reads clearly and flows well. An excellent YA choice. – blogger review by Kathy, Our Town Book Reviews
Great and timely story. With the Olympics just having taken place this novel feels very fitting to read right now. Off Edge was an engaging and fun-to-read novel. The author’s writing style was great as well. I look forward to reading more by Brae. – 4* reader review (excerpt)
Off Edge by Addison Brae is an engrossing read. … Rushing out of Russia with her coach so as not to be detained she is bewildered and heartbroken. Upon her return to the States, she encounters negativity from fans and people in general. With her identity in question, she feels adrift, betrayed, and defeated. She begins to resent her parents, especially her dad, and buck their authority. Her best friend is wonderfully written. She listens, comforts and rallies Docia out of the listless state she falls into. Docia’s angst and anguish were so well done, that I felt like I was fifteen again going through the struggle with her. I must admit that I shed a tear or two and remembered that time in my life when everything was larger than life and I felt I would die of embarrassment every day for some reason or other. …This book touches on betrayal, friend-to-friend and parent-to-child, identity, disrespect, supportive friends, determination, and courage in the face of it all. Teens, lovers of figure skating or sports novels will be swept into this book because of the realistic emotions. I suggest that parents read it as well so that open discussions can be had about some of the content. – 4* review (excerpt) by Book Zone Reviews
Skating was her whole identity. Now she needs answers. A lovely story of fighting back against the odds when betrayal done in the hopes of having her disqualified backfires completely as the truth is revealed. She finally gains the courage to go against her father’s control to get the answers for herself. Lily and Lena are there to give her the support her parents don’t and are a key part of her keeping sane with all that’s going on. Loads of figure skating terminology and performances to keep the fans involved, as well as a complex tale of family, birth and adoption. This is a teen whose whole life has been all about her sport and her father’s control. No More! I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above. – 4* reader review (excerpt)
2019 Romantic Suspense finalist – NW Houston Romance Writers of America Lone Star Writing Contest
Great mystery! Sometimes dark, sometimes light but always riveting. The world building is excellent. The characters are well written. Their emotions, especially Gillian, keep you on the edge of your seat and make it difficult to stop reading. A great mystery, realistic characters and a wonderful world for them to inhabit. A definite must read! 5* reader review
Viola Robins’ InD’tale Magazine review, September 2020 issue. This story has a steady arc of suspense and mystery that readers will gobble up. 4* (excellent)
Gripping sequel to Becker Circle. After reading Becker Circle, I could not wait for this book to come out! It did not disappoint!! From Gillian’s accounting skills to her bartending skills, this author is able to combine two unlikely professions into a very believable and gripping novel about cybercrime. I will not spoil the romance part but I really didn’t want this story to end! This is a must read if you are up for a mystery, bartending tricks, and a main character you will love to cheer on! 5* reader review
Very suspenseful mystery with slices of romance. Even though I had not read the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I am amazed how well Gillian handles having so many balls in the air with running the restaurant, investigating who set up Pinkie, and squeezing time in with her boyfriend Jon. Gillian is definitely a take-charge woman and I love her rules for living. This was a fast enjoyable read for me. 5* reader review
Fantastic read! I have two modes when it comes to reading. Full speed ahead, or cold stop. So, when I say I flew through Dark Energy, please believe it was because I couldn’t put it down. If you’re in the mood for something to get your blood pumping and your fingers working to turn those pages, Dark Energy is a good bet! Action-packed, tons of fun, and a loving nod to the service industry. Tip your waitress, and read this book! 5* reader review
Perfect sequel – couldn’t put it down. Dark Energy picks up right where Becker Circle left off and takes you on a thrilling ride. From real-life bartending drama to the beautiful descriptions of the city and surroundings, it’s not hard to get completely immersed in the world the author has created. Love, drama, and cybercrime – what more could you ask for? 5* reader review
This book was an excellent read with a relevant storyline that was well written with likable characters that kept me totally engaged throughout the entire book! 4* reader review
Even better than Becker Circle, and that was fab! Wow this book just didn’t stop to take a breath and neither did Gillian. Determination to clear her boss gets her in deep with some bad company. The action is nonstop and the story flows like melted butter. Great read, and highly recommended. 5* reader/author review
Intriguing story line & wonderful characters!!! This book was an interesting, intriguing, and exciting read! I really enjoyed the main characters. They were realistic, likable, and relatable! I think all romantic suspense fans and adult/new adult readers will like this book! So, add it to your TBR List and get to reading – you won’t be disappointed! 4* review by Fabulous and Brunette
Good book, new author for me. This author writes a tangled plot with good characters. Lots of suspense. This is quite a ride and an enjoyable story. I’d read more in this series. 4* reader review
New heroine for us to root for. They say that every superhero has a dark past from which they rise and save the world, well here is Gillian. Dark Energy has mystery, a dark past which breathes in the present, a hot boyfriend, and a loyal leading lady who will kill to save you. What more could you ask for? 4* review by Phoebe’s Random’s Vine Voice
Great sequel! I loved the second installment in the Becker Circle series. Here we find out kick-butt heroine facing off Russian cybercriminals. I hope we get to see Gillian more in the future! 5* reader review
My first book from this author and I think this series will be a winner! I immediately adored Gillian and love her character! The storyline was engaging and something that piqued my interest and I felt the author did a great job with it as it was a fast paced moving read which I enjoy very much! Review by Gimme the Scoop Reviews
New adult genre, perfect description. This is the first book I have read by Addison Brae. As an adult I enjoyed it with its suspense and mystery. While it contained the problems of today and possibly the beginning relationships, it was a refreshingly clean read. One that has you holding your breath a little, hoping that your favorite character will win. 4* review by Our Town Book Reviews
Great. This is new author for me. The book has our heroine trying to save her mentor. I enjoyed every page of the storyline. The cast of characters is well developed and engaging. I am looking forward to more on this series. 5* reader review
Romantic suspense-mystery. What I liked: Gillian: Intelligent, savvy, good at her work, loving and kind but not a pushover. Learning that there is something called crypto-jacking and that I never want to experience it. What I didn’t like: The bad guys that set up the crypto-jacking in Pinkie’s business. 4* review by Cathy G.
Very pleased with this book! The biggest thing for me is how will a book captivate me… will it be easy to follow along with the plot and characters of the story. This book didn’t fail any of those categories. Well written page-turner! 5* review by Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin’
This was a brilliant read. I found it very well-written and also extremely captivating, as it is about a topic that is very real and very current. So many people get caught up in cyber crime issues, and this one is truly one that grabs you and pulls you in. I highly recommend this book. 4.44* review by Naturalbri
BECKER CIRCLE
New Adult finalist – Las Vegas RWA I Heart Indie Contest
Uncaged Book Reviews Raven Awards semi-finalist and finalist in mystery/suspense
Suspense romance and intrigue-a great cocktail. Becker Circle is one part romance and 2 parts suspense that is a recipe for reading enjoyment. I give Becker circle 5 Jagerbombs for great story telling and anxiously await Ms. Brae’s next book! 5* SnoopyReviewer review
Awesome read!! I loved experiencing the main character’s adventures as she started a new life in the big city. There were times I cringed at Gillian’s mistakes and other times I wanted to jump into the story and give her a high-five. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrill! 5* reader review
Addison Brae establishes her trademark for romance, a great storyteller who creates characters and an exciting world that readers will want to navigate — the Becker Circle. I enjoyed the buildup of the attraction, the skillful way the scenes are constructed, and the author’s ability to convey the atmosphere in a bar — vividly and realistically — while immersing readers in a culture that suits that world. Becker Circle is suspenseful and the tension builds up quickly into a climax that is as intriguing as it is satisfying. Great cast of characters, a spellbinding narrative voice, and a wonderful plot, spiced with red herrings that will make you keep turning the pages. 5* Reader’s Favorite review by Romuald Dzemo
Nice debut. This is a debut novel, and it sure doesn’t read like one. Addison Brae is already proving to be a great storyteller with a nicely moving plot. It’s a promising debut from an author and this book has put her on my radar and is one to watch. 4* Uncaged Books review by Cyrene
Simply… I loved this book! Absolutely fantastic read. ‘Harvard honors graduate. Accountant. Bartender. Narcotics dealer.’ Now doesn’t that sound like fun! I loved how this book revolves around the bar scene – so much fun so much excitement. Not to mention all the crazy (drunk) characters. Gillian was a rock star! She was just the right amount of kick-ass heroine without being cocky. And Jon is just a sweetheart! Awwww 🙂 This was very easy to get into and once I started I didn’t want to stop! I can’t wait to read another one by this author. And be sure to watch the trailer! It will hook you for sure! 5* Wall-To-Wall Books review by Wendy
Gwenellen Tarbet’s InD’tale Magazine review, June 2018 issue. Gillian is a well-rounded character and readers with appreciate her witty and humorous insights as the story progresses. One can’t help but root for Gillian as she navigates her new environment. ’Becker Circle’ is a great debut novel and readers can look forward to more from Ms. Brae.
There are two things Gillian knows she can count on. People she knows have her back, including Jon, Detective Jeff and Pinkie, the owner of a competing bar. The other are the rules she creates for herself at the end of each situation, so she doesn’t repeat the same patterns as she builds her new life. 4.8* The Writers Studio review by Angela Drake
The intricate twists and turns together with Gillian’s amazing mind and ability to strategize keeps the reader guessing as the story slowly unravels and the villains and motives become clear. 5* reader review
Fun, fast-paced romance. I loved the instant undeniable connection and chemistry that melts the pages. It really took a certain kind of man to handle Gillian and her ways, and he balanced her perfectly. There is plenty of action and twists and turns to keep you invested throughout. Bailey Ember, Texas Book Nook blog
Smart enough to resist crime. Addison Brae is great at crafting a mystery and romance that is endearing and nail-biting at the same time. Although the reader thinks Gillian will figure it all out by the end of the novel, she keeps the reader guessing until very close to the last page! The engaging and seedy side of the bar life is shown without being highly offensive, and we have an intelligent, sensitive, compassionate and determined, spunky character to root for all the way! Nicely crafted, Addison Brae! Keep writing! 5* Amazon “Vine Voice”, B&N, & Goodreads review by Viviane Crystal
A fun, satisfying read! Addison Brea’s portrait of a single woman taking on life’s unknown was full of drama, suspense and adventure. The story was smartly written and raised my personal ire more than once with Gillian’s ex narcissistic rhetoric with how important he was to Gillian. 5* review by Tegon Maus, author of Bob, The Chronicles of Tucker Littlefield, and The Eve Project.
Great read. Well talk about some colorful characters! BECKER CIRCLE had them all and then some! Frankly this was a pretty sweet and suspenseful story with lots of twists and turns. At the end I loved the career choice! 4* Amazon “Vine Voice” and Goodreads review by Marilyn Rondeau
The plot is excellent. I enjoyed the characters as well. The secondary characters are interesting and added greatly to my overall enjoyment. 3.5* review by Reader Lady
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to finding out what will happen in Becker Circle next. 5* advanced reader review by Cathy Geha
Brimming with both action and drama, Becker Circle draws readers into its social milieu and keeps them hooked, page after page. 5* review by Cadia Cox, award-winning author of Double Shot of Love and Mistletoe & Macaroons
Becker Circle has a main character you’d like to know, and a slow burn suspense that just keeps getting creepier. ~Kris Bock, author of suspense, mystery and romance
Loved the suspense, romance, and drama…and wasn’t able to put the book down until it was finished! 5* reader review
This is an awesome mystery/thriller set against a backdrop of a popular neighborhood full of intrigue, a fascinating cast of characters and a sexy romance. It’ll make you look at your favorite neighborhood bar in a different light. 5* reader review
Becker Circle and Gillian kept me on the edge of my seat between the romance, suspense, and mystery. Every chapter took me to a place I didn’t see coming and an ending that I would have never anticipated. 5* reader review