Book Review: One Shot Away by T. Glen Coughlin

One Shot Away
A Wrestling Story
Author: T. Glen Coughlin
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Released: October 2nd 2012
Review Source: Harper TEEN
Available: Amazon

Summary: (from goodreads) It’s senior year and the last season for Diggy, Jimmy, and Trevor on the Molly Pitcher High School varsity wrestling team. And they all want the same thing: to win.

But Diggy’s got to compete with his older brother’s legacy, and now he’s in danger of losing his spot to newcomer Trevor. Jimmy’s got the cops after him, and a girlfriend who looks down on him. Then Diggy does the unthinkable—he betrays a teammate. Can the team forgive him? And can he forgive himself?

Experience the pressure with Diggy, Jimmy, and Trevor as the stakes rise and loyalties splinter. They’ve got just one shot to make weight and get onto the mat. But pinning your opponent is about more than just winning.

Amidst all the fantasy and paranormal books it is always great to settle down and find a book focused around sports. Being an athlete and sports enthusiast myself, I appreciate a well-written book on the topic. One Shot Away is an interesting story about three wrestlers and their journey through their senior year as wrestlers. This being his third novel, T. Glen Coughlin does a pretty good job of combining the lives of the three main characters to create an intriguing storyline.

For example, one great aspect of the book, is that there is not a true protagonist in the novel. Ultimately, none of the main characters are perfect. All three characters have their flaws and inner demons, which leads to exciting drama throughout the novel. At a school and community living off of wrestling, three seniors begin their final season. Trevor Crow, the guy nobody saw coming, has a lot to prove. Not only to himself but also to his deceased father. Next, Jimmy O’shea whose high expectations and criminal like father, often cause trouble and turmoil in his life.

Finally, Diggy Masters, the guy who seems to have it all, but whose life is a little more on the dark side. Coughlin does a really good job of making his characters seem realistic. In addition in no shape or form are they perfect. The style and voice that Coughlin uses embodies a very modern and urban personality. They storyline is truly clever along with being a little edgy. Overall I think this piece did a fantastic job of delving into the hardships and drama of a teenage athlete. As one one myself, I can relate to the struggles of playing a sport. I definitely recommend this book to any guy that loves sports.