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Iceland Annie: The Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26An inspiring memoir by CrossFit legend Annie Thorisdottir, the first woman to win the CrossFit Games twice.
In 2011, Annie Thorisdottir earned the title “Fittest Woman on Earth” after winning the CrossFit Games in only her third year as a competitor. In 2012, she did it again, becoming the first woman to ever win the Games twice, solidifying herself amongst the CrossFit greats.
Iceland Annie is the story of how she got there, and everything that happened after. From bursting onto the CrossFit scene at the 2009 Games and famously hitting her first-ever muscle-up mid-competition, to becoming a two-time champion and mentor to athletes like Katrin Davidsdottir, to surviving the traumatic birth of her daughter and the battle with postpartum depression—culminating in a stunning 2021 comeback, when she placed third at the Games less than a year after giving birth.
Now, for the first time ever, Annie shares the intimate details of her career, delving into her mental resilience, determination, and the struggles and triumphs she’s faced as a top-level competitor over three separate decades.
A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press
In 2011, Annie Thorisdottir earned the title “Fittest Woman on Earth” after winning the CrossFit Games in only her third year as a competitor. In 2012, she did it again, becoming the first woman to ever win the Games twice, solidifying herself amongst the CrossFit greats.
Iceland Annie is the story of how she got there, and everything that happened after. From bursting onto the CrossFit scene at the 2009 Games and famously hitting her first-ever muscle-up mid-competition, to becoming a two-time champion and mentor to athletes like Katrin Davidsdottir, to surviving the traumatic birth of her daughter and the battle with postpartum depression—culminating in a stunning 2021 comeback, when she placed third at the Games less than a year after giving birth.
Now, for the first time ever, Annie shares the intimate details of her career, delving into her mental resilience, determination, and the struggles and triumphs she’s faced as a top-level competitor over three separate decades.
A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press
Audible Audio
First published February 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 5, 2026
This book is for everyone. A must if you work with athletes. A must if you experience a set back. A must if you become a mother.
I loved the story telling, I loved the raw and relatable moments. Well done, Annie, a top recommendation from me.
I loved the story telling, I loved the raw and relatable moments. Well done, Annie, a top recommendation from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this Audio-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a huge CrossFit fan, who has watched Annie for almost her entire career, I am amazed at her ethos, her growth and how she becomes the person she is today. The way she describes getting bored with a workout plan, how she's constantly achieving; she needs a new goal and a new challenge at all times, but then how it all evolves after Freya is born.
I love hearing of Annie's early life- how she came to CrossFit, how she was supported so heavily from her entire family; her relationship with Frederik (I had to text my husband telling him I was delayed because Frederik and Annie just kissed for the first time and I can't stop listening!), and how she navigates the challenges of injury, heat stroke, the psychology behind overcoming that and also navigating the post-partum depression and fitness. The way she talks about hiding in the back corner of the gym so she can pee herself while doing double unders is so real for so many women.
It's an interesting situation to be in- Annie doesn't really recognize the privilege she has as a CF Games winner- she has more than enough money to travel around the world, meet specialists and hire coaches for literally everything she needs in order to become The Fittest on Earth. This isn't so much a deterrent to Annie- it just makes me feel really sad for people who DON'T have that access.
Overall, I loved this book and would listen to it again whenever I needed some more motivation when things stall for me. Annie has been an inspiration to me in my CrossFit and fitness journeys since I started. Will I ever be as fit as Annie? Hell no. But her story will absolutely inspire another woman in the future and that is what matters most. Congratulations, Annie, on this achievement.
As a huge CrossFit fan, who has watched Annie for almost her entire career, I am amazed at her ethos, her growth and how she becomes the person she is today. The way she describes getting bored with a workout plan, how she's constantly achieving; she needs a new goal and a new challenge at all times, but then how it all evolves after Freya is born.
I love hearing of Annie's early life- how she came to CrossFit, how she was supported so heavily from her entire family; her relationship with Frederik (I had to text my husband telling him I was delayed because Frederik and Annie just kissed for the first time and I can't stop listening!), and how she navigates the challenges of injury, heat stroke, the psychology behind overcoming that and also navigating the post-partum depression and fitness. The way she talks about hiding in the back corner of the gym so she can pee herself while doing double unders is so real for so many women.
It's an interesting situation to be in- Annie doesn't really recognize the privilege she has as a CF Games winner- she has more than enough money to travel around the world, meet specialists and hire coaches for literally everything she needs in order to become The Fittest on Earth. This isn't so much a deterrent to Annie- it just makes me feel really sad for people who DON'T have that access.
Overall, I loved this book and would listen to it again whenever I needed some more motivation when things stall for me. Annie has been an inspiration to me in my CrossFit and fitness journeys since I started. Will I ever be as fit as Annie? Hell no. But her story will absolutely inspire another woman in the future and that is what matters most. Congratulations, Annie, on this achievement.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Iceland Annie: the Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend by Annie Thorisdottir
Audiobook narrated by Annie Thorisdottir
Publish date: July 7, 2026
This is an autobiography written by a CrossFit legend, Annie Thorisdottir (the subtitle exactly describes this book). I have seen Annie from a few CrossFit documentaries, and I have hard time saying no to a biography of an athlete. She is candid, easy to relate to (if being a bit too much of an overachiever), and extremely competitive, which I would imagine absolutely necessary in such sport. This looks back her young life through competing in CrossFit, even after having a child. I love that she is very body positive, and I also learned a few things about Icelandic culture.
Audiobook is well narrated, and I enjoyed her Icelandic accent. There are some sections that were voiced over, which I hear from time to time in other audiobooks as well. These insertions are not very frequent and didn't bother me that much. It was also a little too long and tedious (I can't begin to imagine how heavy or light of weights she is lifting, not practicing sports - so I don't have to hear it every time she lifts something, but I am sure this is an impressive figure if you knew weight lifting).
An advanced copy of this audiobook was provided courtesy of NetGalley and Macmillan Audio. Opinions stated herein are my own. Thank you!
Audiobook narrated by Annie Thorisdottir
Publish date: July 7, 2026
This is an autobiography written by a CrossFit legend, Annie Thorisdottir (the subtitle exactly describes this book). I have seen Annie from a few CrossFit documentaries, and I have hard time saying no to a biography of an athlete. She is candid, easy to relate to (if being a bit too much of an overachiever), and extremely competitive, which I would imagine absolutely necessary in such sport. This looks back her young life through competing in CrossFit, even after having a child. I love that she is very body positive, and I also learned a few things about Icelandic culture.
Audiobook is well narrated, and I enjoyed her Icelandic accent. There are some sections that were voiced over, which I hear from time to time in other audiobooks as well. These insertions are not very frequent and didn't bother me that much. It was also a little too long and tedious (I can't begin to imagine how heavy or light of weights she is lifting, not practicing sports - so I don't have to hear it every time she lifts something, but I am sure this is an impressive figure if you knew weight lifting).
An advanced copy of this audiobook was provided courtesy of NetGalley and Macmillan Audio. Opinions stated herein are my own. Thank you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Iceland Annie: The Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend is an inspiring look at Annie Thorisdottir’s journey from a young athlete in Iceland to becoming a two-time CrossFit Games champion and one of the sport’s most influential figures. Rather than simply recounting victories, the book focuses on her growth — highlighting the injuries, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt that shaped her resilience and mental toughness. It offers an honest portrayal of what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Accessible and motivating, the book emphasizes mindset over mechanics, making it appealing not just to CrossFit fans but to anyone interested in perseverance and high performance. While it doesn’t dive deeply into training specifics, it succeeds as a story of grit, evolution, and the relentless pursuit of improvement.
Accessible and motivating, the book emphasizes mindset over mechanics, making it appealing not just to CrossFit fans but to anyone interested in perseverance and high performance. While it doesn’t dive deeply into training specifics, it succeeds as a story of grit, evolution, and the relentless pursuit of improvement.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, Net Galley, for this Arc!
Audiobook.
As a CrossFit Lover, I was excited to listen to Annie's memoir about her time in CrossFit. It was great that she narrated the book herself as well. It was easy to understand despite her accent, even listening at 2x speed. The story itself was very well done. The structure she chose to tell the story kept me really intrigued. Despite watching all the CrossFit games and documentaries and behind the scenes, you never really know what's going on with the athletes. This memoir definitely pointed out how much these athletes have to sacrifice and push to be in the top. There was a lot of great motivating quotes that will stick with me. I enjoyed that Annie touched on her postpartum and training afterwards.
I think if you are a female athlete or love CrossFit you would enjoy this memoir.
Audiobook.
As a CrossFit Lover, I was excited to listen to Annie's memoir about her time in CrossFit. It was great that she narrated the book herself as well. It was easy to understand despite her accent, even listening at 2x speed. The story itself was very well done. The structure she chose to tell the story kept me really intrigued. Despite watching all the CrossFit games and documentaries and behind the scenes, you never really know what's going on with the athletes. This memoir definitely pointed out how much these athletes have to sacrifice and push to be in the top. There was a lot of great motivating quotes that will stick with me. I enjoyed that Annie touched on her postpartum and training afterwards.
I think if you are a female athlete or love CrossFit you would enjoy this memoir.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Iceland Annie: The Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend by Annie Thorisdottir is a wonderful book detailing the challenges and obstacles of a professional athlete. The book is approachable and engaging, and I particularly appreciated Annie's honesty about her journey, warts and all. She shares genuine wisdom on the mental aspects of pushing yourself further than you think possible, and how to overcome fear, pressure, and anxiety — feelings that any athlete can relate to, not just professionals. As someone currently training for my first marathon, I found myself drawing directly on her tools to persevere even when I wanted to give up. This book has an appeal that reaches well beyond the CrossFit community. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about overcoming challenges, the lives of professional athletes, or simply finding the mental strength to push through adversity.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was really interesting. Learning about her upbringing, her parents and how she was raised helps us understand her mindset and how she thinks about sport. It's fascinating to hear how she managed to get to the point she is. She is truly inspiring, and hearing about her pregnancy and mental health was amazing. I felt like workout descriptions were going into too much, but I'm guessing this might be a plus for other people. I listened to the audio version, at first I was unsure about the narration, but in the end, who could tell this story better than the athlete herself!?
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2026
As a huge CrossFit fan, I was so excited to learn more about Annie Thorisdottir. I loved hearing about her experiences competing in CrossFit and how she balances elite athletics with motherhood. Her journey is both inspiring and insightful, especially for anyone who appreciates the dedication it takes to perform at such a high level.
My only critique is that her accent is quite strong at times, which occasionally made parts of the narration a little harder to understand. That said, if you enjoy autobiographies and sports memoirs, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this audiobook ARC!
My only critique is that her accent is quite strong at times, which occasionally made parts of the narration a little harder to understand. That said, if you enjoy autobiographies and sports memoirs, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this audiobook ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a huge crossfit fan, I have followed Annie's career throughout the years. This was a fantastic timeline of what brought her to eventually find crossfit and her career through the years. I loved the details and insights into her process and thoughts. It was very tedious and workout focused so if you don't find that subject fascinating I do think this could feel like too much detail.
Annie did her own narration which I really appreciate! Loved hearing her Icelandic accent throughout the book.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Annie did her own narration which I really appreciate! Loved hearing her Icelandic accent throughout the book.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Not me already crying through the intro 😭🤣
As a former crossfitter, current fitness enthusiast, and mom of a young child, I loved this memoir. I have always been a fan of Annie’s, and hearing her story in her own words just made me like her even more. She has incredible grit and determination, overcoming so many obstacles over the course of her CrossFit career. The story of her struggle back to herself as a new mom was all too relatable.
HIGHLY recommend the audio, as Annie reads it herself. There is no better way to experience this one!
4.75 ⭐️ rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of the audiobook!
As a former crossfitter, current fitness enthusiast, and mom of a young child, I loved this memoir. I have always been a fan of Annie’s, and hearing her story in her own words just made me like her even more. She has incredible grit and determination, overcoming so many obstacles over the course of her CrossFit career. The story of her struggle back to herself as a new mom was all too relatable.
HIGHLY recommend the audio, as Annie reads it herself. There is no better way to experience this one!
4.75 ⭐️ rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of the audiobook!
April 27, 2026
4.25/5 - Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Women are just amazing, period. And I'm not taking any criticism on the matter.
It's interesting to read the memoir of an athlete who was not raised in Canada, the US or the UK - Annie Thorisdottir has a completely different attitude towards sport than a lot of athletes on my side of the world, and I found that interesting and refreshing. I also found it crazy how she was living in a "bubble" of sorts where she was shielded from sexism and misogyny while competing in Iceland... there were a lot of moments where I was just like "huh." Overall, though, there was a lot of vulnerability shared in her memoir and I think that a lot of people, whether they're familiar with crossfit or not, can resonate with some of Annie's words.
Women are just amazing, period. And I'm not taking any criticism on the matter.
It's interesting to read the memoir of an athlete who was not raised in Canada, the US or the UK - Annie Thorisdottir has a completely different attitude towards sport than a lot of athletes on my side of the world, and I found that interesting and refreshing. I also found it crazy how she was living in a "bubble" of sorts where she was shielded from sexism and misogyny while competing in Iceland... there were a lot of moments where I was just like "huh." Overall, though, there was a lot of vulnerability shared in her memoir and I think that a lot of people, whether they're familiar with crossfit or not, can resonate with some of Annie's words.
March 19, 2026
ALC Review:
Special thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Annie Thorisdottir for the complementary audiobook. This is an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Back in 2017 I stumbled upon a collection of CrossFit documentaries (Netflix) that changed my perspective on fitness. At the time, I was trying to figure out a workout plan to aid in weight loss. While I had immense respect for CrossFit, I was too intimidated to enter a gym/box.
Despite my trepidation, I credit those documentaries (Froning, Fitness on Earth, Redeemed and Dominant) with my fascination in the sport. In addition, in served as my introduction to Annie Thorisdottir- the first two time champion. Her bubbly personality and athleticism made her an instant star/standout.
So when I saw that Annie was releasing her memoir, I immediately jumped at the opportunity to read it. Iceland Annie: The Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend was a five star read!!! It was not only
insightful, but highly inspirational; leaving no doubt that Annie Thorisdottir is an elite athlete with unmatched mental resilience.
Be sure to read/ listen to this book for Annie’s:
-Icelandic Roots
-Athletic Background
-Record Breaking Statistics
-Post Games Life
Special thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Annie Thorisdottir for the complementary audiobook. This is an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Back in 2017 I stumbled upon a collection of CrossFit documentaries (Netflix) that changed my perspective on fitness. At the time, I was trying to figure out a workout plan to aid in weight loss. While I had immense respect for CrossFit, I was too intimidated to enter a gym/box.
Despite my trepidation, I credit those documentaries (Froning, Fitness on Earth, Redeemed and Dominant) with my fascination in the sport. In addition, in served as my introduction to Annie Thorisdottir- the first two time champion. Her bubbly personality and athleticism made her an instant star/standout.
So when I saw that Annie was releasing her memoir, I immediately jumped at the opportunity to read it. Iceland Annie: The Evolution of a CrossFit Games Legend was a five star read!!! It was not only
insightful, but highly inspirational; leaving no doubt that Annie Thorisdottir is an elite athlete with unmatched mental resilience.
Be sure to read/ listen to this book for Annie’s:
-Icelandic Roots
-Athletic Background
-Record Breaking Statistics
-Post Games Life
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you enjoy fitness in any aspect and wonder what sets professional athletes apart from your average person, Annie’s story is one of a fierce passion to overcome physical challenges. As an average CrossFit athlete, I’ve followed Annie’s journey the last 10 years, but I was surprised at how much I didn’t know. Her narration brought her personality to light and makes you feel like you are hearing the story in person.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Watching the various Crossfit games documentaries is what helps pass the time while I'm on the treadmill. Those athletes are absolute beasts and it's incredible to watch. I've watched Annie Thorisdottir perform and have been impressed at what she can do. Seriously, she's a freaking machine. I loved reading her backstory and having some insight to where it all began. Win or lose, she's a champ!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 11, 2026
Interesting read. This memoir is about a legend in CrossFit and her life in and out of the sport. This book gave the reader insight into what makes Annie tick and how she was able to compete at a high level despite some very challenging setbacks. This story makes you see her 3rd place finish in 2021 with new eyes and I think readers will appreciate her even more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this so much. I’ve been a fan of Annie since my pre covid CrossFit days and I loved seeing her perspective of events and where she is today. I also loved seeing a glimpse into the world she was raised in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved learning about her early life, her dedication and determination. I never knew she had to overcome such terrible injuries. Her attitude was so uplifting. I couldn't put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Inspiring and interesting memoir about a world, the world of CrossFit, that I really know very little about. 5 stars. thanks for the E-ARC.
April 29, 2026
I LOVE when memoir audiobooks are narrated by the author! This one was no exception! As an amateur crossfitter married to a small town CrossFit coach, I have always been interested in some of the more well-known Games athletes. I've watched many of the documentaries & televised CrossFit events. I follow many of the CrossFit legends on social media, and have always enjoyed watching Annie & seeing her posts. I was so excited to gain early access to this audiobook via Netgalley! I started it as soon as I could! I was not disappointed! I would listen to it again! I loved hearing Annie's stories about her life from childhood, to becoming a Crossfit Legend, & then to becoming a mother & learning how to compete with her changed body while also grieving her grandmother. Her story is so inspiring.
"but greif & joy are not opposites. They live side by side in my chest. One never fully eclipsing the other. It's like Katrin said, 'We never get over or move on from loss. We are forced to make space for it. We carry it. We learn to live with it, and sometimes we thrive in spite of it."
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, & Annie Thorisdotter for allowing access to the advanced audiobook! My review is my honest opinion.
"but greif & joy are not opposites. They live side by side in my chest. One never fully eclipsing the other. It's like Katrin said, 'We never get over or move on from loss. We are forced to make space for it. We carry it. We learn to live with it, and sometimes we thrive in spite of it."
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, & Annie Thorisdotter for allowing access to the advanced audiobook! My review is my honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews