Everything That Falls by Nicole Disney

Everything That Falls is not surprisingly (when you see the cover) a story featuring climbers (and other extreme sports). Edge Walkers are a small group of essentially skilled climbers/kayakers/dare devils etc that film their activities for their YouTube site. Mia is a solo free climber – she climbs difficult rockfaces without the use of ropes and harnesses. Her ability is legendary.
Alex is a Ranger and had to issue a permit for their latest attempts. Mia and Alex have a run in about risk.
Mia later has an accident – having already done the really dangerous bit and succeeded – the weather closes in and she is injured on her way down. So it’s Ranger Alex to the rescue.

I know a lot more about climbing now than I did when I started reading this. It’s fascinating – and there are loads of similar feats to watch online to scare yourself with if you are so inclined. The descriptions of mountain rescues are so detailed and packed full of emotions, struggles and bravery. As are the frustrations of recovery from injuries and surgery. It makes it hard to put the book down.
Regardless of the climbing/outdoor activities, this book takes a long, hard look at how difficult it is to love and allow yourself to be loved when you regularly put your life on the line for the thrill of sport (and earning a living). Is it selfish to take part in risky activities when someone else has to turn out in all weathers to stage a rescue mission?
I really enjoyed this – and I’m fairly sure my YouTube algorithm will never be the same again.