"Rematch is even more appealing than the original, with surprising plot developments that will keep readers turning the pages to see what happens next.  Wrestlers and fans will especially appreciate Hertel's ability to realistically portray action in the wrestling room and on the mat. The author's description of the climatic rematch [] is especially compelling for its rich detail and intricate plot twists."
     Mark Palmer - College Wrestling Examiner and Senior Writer for Intermat

"There are a ton of valuable themes in this book for young adults.  Messages about work ethic, fallibility of mind / body / spirit, overcoming that fallibility, importance of loyalty, importance of good sportsmanship are excellently touched upon."
     Midwest Book Awards Judge

"H.L. has written something that can be enjoyed by teenagers, adults, wrestling fanatics, or anyone else."
     Jason Effner - Wrestlers in Business

"Hertel does wrestling right.  This is a book for both young and old alike.  Coaches, parents and wrestlers will connect with the story."
     Veritas - TheOpenMat.com

"To Be The Best is a novel that is not only worthy of consideration for wrestlers and their friends and families but will also appeal to individuals who may not know the difference between a takedown and a touchdown.  It is a great read for anyone who has felt the competitive fire burn within their hearts."
     Mark Palmer - College Wrestling Examiner and Writer for InterMat

"Whether it's about physical battles on the mat or emotional struggles off the mat, To Be The Best captures the realities of high school wrestling very well. Hertel knows his stuff when it comes to telling a compelling wrestling story."                                                                                                Jeff Beshey - The Guillotine  (Minnesota Amateur Wrestling)

Kirkus Discoveries says, "...the depth of Hertel's obvious knowledge of wrestling and his ability to build psychologically realistic characters makes this a startlingly interesting read."
To read this review in its entirety, click here.

The Grand Forks Herald says, "Hertel's passion and respect for the sport is clear as a reader flips through the pages of To Be the Best.  The novel is about more than just wrestling, however.  It also focuses on the struggles of teenagers - their triumphs and downfalls during the high school years."

I not only enjoyed it thoroughly, but I can't wait until the second book comes out!!  I have been recommending it to all my wrestling friends and non-wrestling friends!  I think "To be the Best" would make a perfect movie!!!
Tracy Heimmermann (Wisconsin Wrestling Mom)

To Be The Best has a five-star ranking on Amazon.com with readers calling it: -       “Fantastic!”
-       “GREAT BOOK FOR WRESTLING FAMILIES”
-       “Not just a wrestling story”
-       “Super ‘keep you on the edge of your seat’ book”

One Amazon reviewer also commented on 12/29, "I bought this for my 15 year old son, who loves wrestling and hates reading! He got it on Christmas day and has not put it down since."