Sarina Bowen - The Year We Fell Down

The Year We Fell Down: A Story of Resilience and Unexpected Love

Corey Callahan's world crumbles when a devastating accident shatters her dreams of playing varsity ice hockey at Harkness College. Confined to a wheelchair, she finds herself in the "gimp ghetto" of McHerrin Hall, the handicapped-accessible dorm. There, she encounters Adam Hartley, a fellow hockey player, also sidelined by a crippling injury. He's impossibly handsome, popular, and seemingly out of reach, yet an unexpected bond forms between them.

In the shared space of their disability, Corey and Adam discover a unique understanding, a refuge from the judgments and pity of the able-bodied world. They navigate the complexities of their new reality, finding solace in tequila-fueled nights, precarious dining hall trays, and video games. The line between friendship and something deeper blurs as their connection intensifies.

But Adam is entangled with another, a "trophy girl" who represents everything Corey feels she is not. As their feelings for each other grow, Corey must face the agonizing choice of letting go or fighting for a love that may be unattainable. The journey of healing, self-discovery, and finding love in the face of adversity takes center stage in this powerful story. Can Corey find the strength to embrace her new life and redefine what it means to be truly whole, or will she forever be haunted by the dreams she lost?

Sarina Bowen, the author, is known for her engaging and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of love, loss, and self-acceptance. With relatable characters and a captivating narrative, "The Year We Fell Down" is a poignant exploration of finding strength and love in the most unexpected of places.