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Toe to Toe
Not yet published
Expected 10 Mar 26It takes two to tango.
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one goal: become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one goal: become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
- GenresRomance
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 10, 2026
26 people are currently reading
1098 people want to read
About the author
Falon Ballard
8 books1,829 followersFalon Ballard is a Los Angeles native who has been writing stories her whole life. After graduating with a degree in Creative Writing, Falon embarked on an eight-year teaching adventure before opening her own event planning business. When she’s not trolling Etsy for the latest merch from her favorite fandoms, she’s hanging out at Disneyland with a pretzel and beer in hand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
September 6, 2025
Toe to Toe is the kind of romance that makes your pulse quicken and your heart ache in all the best ways. From the first chapter, I was completely pulled into Allegra Hart’s world—an ambitious ballerina who has poured every ounce of herself into the pursuit of becoming a principal dancer. Her talent is undeniable, but her director’s cruel demand—that she embody a sensuality she supposedly lacks—forces her into a crossroads that could define her career. Allegra’s desperation leads her to a partnership with Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer turned magnetic star of an all-male revue. Their deal—lessons in allure in exchange for her help with his choreography—feels like a deliciously risky gamble, and from the moment they share the stage, the tension between them is undeniable.
What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
twitter<
Read
September 10, 2025pre-read:
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason!! 👀
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason!! 👀
Currently reading
September 11, 2025Pre-read:
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
August 31, 2025
the former dancer in me LOVED this book. this was such a fun and sweet book and Falon absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one! thank you so much to NetGalley and Putnam publishing for the arc!!
September 1, 2025
toe to toe
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
Want to read
August 24, 2025
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review!*
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
September 8, 2025
a ballerina and a male stripper? say less!
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
August 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review! :)
I absolutely devored this book, it was such an engaging read with plenty of tension, passion, and banter. In order to prepare for the audition of a lifetime, Allegra finds herself teaming up with Cord, a male dancer who helps her get in touch with her more sensual side. I loved how natural everything felt between Cord and Allegra even with the two of them having their own reasons for holding back on letting their relationship go past professional. Working in similar fields they have a shared passion for dance and they support each other chasing their dreams, which just felt so ~healthy and mature~. Most of all I liked how Cord pushed Allegra out of her comfort zone, allowing her to embrace all sides of herself and become confident and happy in her own skin while never overstepping; he always seemed to know exactly what she needed. If you love dance, romance, and lots of tension, this is the book for you!
I absolutely devored this book, it was such an engaging read with plenty of tension, passion, and banter. In order to prepare for the audition of a lifetime, Allegra finds herself teaming up with Cord, a male dancer who helps her get in touch with her more sensual side. I loved how natural everything felt between Cord and Allegra even with the two of them having their own reasons for holding back on letting their relationship go past professional. Working in similar fields they have a shared passion for dance and they support each other chasing their dreams, which just felt so ~healthy and mature~. Most of all I liked how Cord pushed Allegra out of her comfort zone, allowing her to embrace all sides of herself and become confident and happy in her own skin while never overstepping; he always seemed to know exactly what she needed. If you love dance, romance, and lots of tension, this is the book for you!
September 1, 2025
Yeah, this cover gives you all you need to start this book...
This was my second Falon Ballard book, and it happened to involve courtesans?
Okay, jokes aside, Toe to Toe is truly a sexy, artsy story set in NYC that follows an almost–principal ballerina and... let's say, a showman?
There's a very specific issue that involves the ballet industry in general, so read the trigger warnings the author leaves at the beginning.
Overall, it was a great, fast-paced read. I absolutely love ballet aesthetics, especially when they come with extra drama. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Falon Ballard...
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the DRC of this book!
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ tropes ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
🩰 Ballerina x show dancer
💃🏼 He teaches her
🌓 Lowkey different worlds
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ ria’s romance rating scale ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
• plot 81/100
• writing 77/100
• characters 77/100
• giggle & feet-kick-ability 80/100
• general enjoyment 82/100
• cringe -0/-100
2/5 🌶️
total: 397
*500-451 - 6 stars
450-401 - 5 stars
400-341 - 4 stars
340-201 - 3 stars
200-101 - 2 stars
100-0 - 1 star
This was my second Falon Ballard book, and it happened to involve courtesans?
Okay, jokes aside, Toe to Toe is truly a sexy, artsy story set in NYC that follows an almost–principal ballerina and... let's say, a showman?
There's a very specific issue that involves the ballet industry in general, so read the trigger warnings the author leaves at the beginning.
Overall, it was a great, fast-paced read. I absolutely love ballet aesthetics, especially when they come with extra drama. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Falon Ballard...
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the DRC of this book!
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ tropes ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
🩰 Ballerina x show dancer
💃🏼 He teaches her
🌓 Lowkey different worlds
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ ria’s romance rating scale ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
• plot 81/100
• writing 77/100
• characters 77/100
• giggle & feet-kick-ability 80/100
• general enjoyment 82/100
• cringe -0/-100
2/5 🌶️
total: 397
*500-451 - 6 stars
450-401 - 5 stars
400-341 - 4 stars
340-201 - 3 stars
200-101 - 2 stars
100-0 - 1 star
September 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC!
I loved this book! Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who is trying for a new role within her company, and Cord, the owner of a “dance” studio and former dancer himself. After Allegra sees Cord dancing, she convinces him to help her be sexier to be chosen for a lead role in a new ballet.
I really loved the chemistry between these two characters as well as all the things Cord did to show Allegra how to believe in herself. Even when he had to travel/work, he was still planning tasks for her.
This is a slow burn, spicy, but sweet romance. It’s definitely on the lighter side of romance than some of the other books I read which was exactly what I needed. I read this book in a day - 5⭐️
I loved this book! Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who is trying for a new role within her company, and Cord, the owner of a “dance” studio and former dancer himself. After Allegra sees Cord dancing, she convinces him to help her be sexier to be chosen for a lead role in a new ballet.
I really loved the chemistry between these two characters as well as all the things Cord did to show Allegra how to believe in herself. Even when he had to travel/work, he was still planning tasks for her.
This is a slow burn, spicy, but sweet romance. It’s definitely on the lighter side of romance than some of the other books I read which was exactly what I needed. I read this book in a day - 5⭐️
September 10, 2025
Interesting premise but honestly this was kind of a weird read. Very strange.
1) the whole stripper thing? just not for me I guess
2) I HATE miscommunication tropes and this was a big one
3) the guy was kind of a manipulator
On the plus side, I did enjoy this because I got to learn more about what the intense ballet lifestyle is like and the self-confidence boost the fmc went through was inspiring!
thanks netgalley for the arc
1) the whole stripper thing? just not for me I guess
2) I HATE miscommunication tropes and this was a big one
3) the guy was kind of a manipulator
On the plus side, I did enjoy this because I got to learn more about what the intense ballet lifestyle is like and the self-confidence boost the fmc went through was inspiring!
thanks netgalley for the arc
August 27, 2025
I received an arc via Netgalley.
I ate this book up in less than a 24 hour period! I was skeptical of the sexy lessons trope but with Allegra as a prim and proper ballerina it made sense and worked with her chemistry with Cord. I wish Cord’s secret issue with ballet was introduced sooner because the secrecy was distracting and I would have understood him better. I loved all the side characters but especially Chloe, Lucy and Noah. Their conflict resolution was a little too back and forth convoluted but I guess that’s life.
I ate this book up in less than a 24 hour period! I was skeptical of the sexy lessons trope but with Allegra as a prim and proper ballerina it made sense and worked with her chemistry with Cord. I wish Cord’s secret issue with ballet was introduced sooner because the secrecy was distracting and I would have understood him better. I loved all the side characters but especially Chloe, Lucy and Noah. Their conflict resolution was a little too back and forth convoluted but I guess that’s life.
September 8, 2025
Toe to Toe is a quick, fun read. I loved Allegra’s journey. Watching her gain confidence with Cord’s support was really sweet, and I liked the unique touch of him being a dancer.
I did struggle with the romance, though. Cord felt too hot and cold, and their relationship moved a little too fast for me to fully buy into it.
It’s a fast-paced story with great character growth and some cute moments. If you loved the movies step up and magic mike this is definitely the book for you.
I did struggle with the romance, though. Cord felt too hot and cold, and their relationship moved a little too fast for me to fully buy into it.
It’s a fast-paced story with great character growth and some cute moments. If you loved the movies step up and magic mike this is definitely the book for you.
Want to read
August 22, 20259/21 so excited. Got this from Netgalley today!! Can’t wait to read it!!
Read
August 22, 2025Dnf at 14%
I don’t know what world that this concept is allowed in a romance but my head actually hurts . And this cover, goes to show that you have to do your research before picking books up .
I don’t know what world that this concept is allowed in a romance but my head actually hurts . And this cover, goes to show that you have to do your research before picking books up .
September 5, 2025
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC. I loved how this book touched on how the world of ballet can be and how it can affect both the men and women that are in the sport. I love how Allegra became more confident throughout the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2025
I wasn’t sure I would like this as I didn’t feel like I related to the FMC as she’s so young and I’m an old lady millennial, but I got sucked into the story and as a lover of Center Stage, I obviously know all about ballet! The slow burn between the two main characters was delicious! The side characters were charming and fun. I was able to predict some of what was to come, but it didn’t lessen my enjoyment at all.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
August 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️
This is the first book I've read by Falon and I was amazed!
First of all, the plot was enticing, we have a lot of books with plots similar to this (for example, MMC teaches FMC about 🌶️ things) but a ballet dancer asking a stripper for dance lessons to be more sexy? It sounded (and absolutely was) amazing!!
Every character had their own backstory that made them so complex and they felt very real.
Starting with Cord, his trauma was so valid, and how his experience with ballet created this wall, even if what hapoened wasn't to himself per se and it was his sister, how he ended up blaming himself for everything asftwr all those years? Ugh, my man🥲 It shows us how trauma can be very present in our day to day, and that we need help to break down those walls.
On the other hand, Allegra had trauma but it was very within herself, she didn't acknowledge her feelings. Being pressured by her mother to do ballet, make ir her entire life and personality. Havind been harassed by her director but not taking it to seriously, and the restrictions with food and the guilt of not going to rehearsal one day? It's a kind of trauma that if she's not aware, can be very dangerous.
I loved the similies and differences between both characters, they showd two sides of the same coin.
This book would habe been a 5 star read for me if it wasn't for the little bit of misscommunication at like 75% of the book. Both characters could have talked a little bit more and maybe the breakup wouldn't have happened in my opinion. I get Cord's anger about the director imposition on their relationship, but it wasn't fair to have her choose when she explicitly said she didn't have to. Also, it wasn't Allegra choosing ballet over him, it was her just choosing to not lose her job and everything she worked for, and not lose Cord in the process. But he took it as her choosing ballet, and he didn't want to listen.
Nontheless, I'm so happy I got the opportunity to review this book, reading it made me so happy and giddy, I want a book about Lucy and Noah please🙏🏼
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️
This is the first book I've read by Falon and I was amazed!
First of all, the plot was enticing, we have a lot of books with plots similar to this (for example, MMC teaches FMC about 🌶️ things) but a ballet dancer asking a stripper for dance lessons to be more sexy? It sounded (and absolutely was) amazing!!
Every character had their own backstory that made them so complex and they felt very real.
Starting with Cord, his trauma was so valid, and how his experience with ballet created this wall, even if what hapoened wasn't to himself per se and it was his sister, how he ended up blaming himself for everything asftwr all those years? Ugh, my man🥲 It shows us how trauma can be very present in our day to day, and that we need help to break down those walls.
On the other hand, Allegra had trauma but it was very within herself, she didn't acknowledge her feelings. Being pressured by her mother to do ballet, make ir her entire life and personality. Havind been harassed by her director but not taking it to seriously, and the restrictions with food and the guilt of not going to rehearsal one day? It's a kind of trauma that if she's not aware, can be very dangerous.
I loved the similies and differences between both characters, they showd two sides of the same coin.
This book would habe been a 5 star read for me if it wasn't for the little bit of misscommunication at like 75% of the book. Both characters could have talked a little bit more and maybe the breakup wouldn't have happened in my opinion. I get Cord's anger about the director imposition on their relationship, but it wasn't fair to have her choose when she explicitly said she didn't have to. Also, it wasn't Allegra choosing ballet over him, it was her just choosing to not lose her job and everything she worked for, and not lose Cord in the process. But he took it as her choosing ballet, and he didn't want to listen.
Nontheless, I'm so happy I got the opportunity to review this book, reading it made me so happy and giddy, I want a book about Lucy and Noah please🙏🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
First off, I’ve been reading Falon Ballards books for awhile and I’ve enjoyed them but they’ve never made want to immediately restart them again. Well folks Falon has finally done it, Toe to Toe was phenomenal from beginning to end. And Honestly I wasn’t even planning on starting this today. But I saw that cover scrolling through my kindle and thought why not I need a light fluffy read. And Falon freaking delivered that and more!
Toe to Toe follows Allegra and Cord. Allegra is a ballet dancer trying to audition as principal ballerina for the next big role in her company. Her director tells her she isn’t “sexual enough” and doesn’t think she’s a good fit. She meets Cord during her sister’s bachelorette party while he’s performing at a sex club. Allegra thinks Cord is the perfect person to team up with to get her better in touch with her sexuality.
Like I mentioned i highly enjoyed this book. So much so that i devoured it in less the 24hours. The sexual tension, the passion, the banter were everything. I loved how talented and powerful Allegra was. But I also loved watching Cord bring her walls down and push her outside her comfort zone. So many times women are told we have to be this way and not that way. But Cord teaching Allegra that it’s ok to embrace all sides of her was refreshing. Which brings me to my love for them as a couple. Their relationship definitely had their ups and downs and rightfully so. But they both handled everything in a healthy way. Which doesn’t happen in a lot of romance novels so I’m happy to report that is t the case here.
My only minor complaint is I wish Allegra would’ve spoken up more. I don’t want to go to in-depth cause I don’t want to spoil. But I do think situations could’ve avoided if she would’ve used her voice.
Overall, I highly enjoyed and 100% recommended this book. If you loved watching Save the Last Dance in the 90’s like I did, then do I have a book for you! Lastly thank you to NetGalley & Putnam Publishing for allowing me to read and ARC in exchange for my honest review
Toe to Toe follows Allegra and Cord. Allegra is a ballet dancer trying to audition as principal ballerina for the next big role in her company. Her director tells her she isn’t “sexual enough” and doesn’t think she’s a good fit. She meets Cord during her sister’s bachelorette party while he’s performing at a sex club. Allegra thinks Cord is the perfect person to team up with to get her better in touch with her sexuality.
Like I mentioned i highly enjoyed this book. So much so that i devoured it in less the 24hours. The sexual tension, the passion, the banter were everything. I loved how talented and powerful Allegra was. But I also loved watching Cord bring her walls down and push her outside her comfort zone. So many times women are told we have to be this way and not that way. But Cord teaching Allegra that it’s ok to embrace all sides of her was refreshing. Which brings me to my love for them as a couple. Their relationship definitely had their ups and downs and rightfully so. But they both handled everything in a healthy way. Which doesn’t happen in a lot of romance novels so I’m happy to report that is t the case here.
My only minor complaint is I wish Allegra would’ve spoken up more. I don’t want to go to in-depth cause I don’t want to spoil. But I do think situations could’ve avoided if she would’ve used her voice.
Overall, I highly enjoyed and 100% recommended this book. If you loved watching Save the Last Dance in the 90’s like I did, then do I have a book for you! Lastly thank you to NetGalley & Putnam Publishing for allowing me to read and ARC in exchange for my honest review
September 1, 2025
From the first page, I loved Allegra. While I'm not a dancer, that pressure to always be better and live up to others' expectations is very relatable. It was nice to see her come into her own throughout the book, and redefine what measures success.
I loved how we met our hero, Cord! It was such a fun meet cute, and it set them up to compliment each other (Allegra is in her head, but precise; Cord has fluidity to his movements). I liked that ballet was part of his backstory, and it set up their conflict, which was a solid string throughout the plot. I wish tap dancing specifically had been a bigger part of their dances, only because she was so impressed with his tap dancing. I also wish we'd gotten a little more insight into him in his business role. We saw Cord dancing and choreographing a lot. But managing a business, not so much.
Their romance was everything I want in a romance: slow burn, but with lots of tension, forced proximity (they dance together a lot), and longing looks. I also love when the hero makes a big decision without the heroine knowing (i.e. when he booked a flight home early so he could go to the food festival with her).
The representation in here was really great! I loved seeing so many bisexual characters, as well as a nonbinary character.
The only part I wish was different in this book was how quickly time passed. I feel like her sister's wedding could've been drawn out a little more. Even the lead up to the wedding could've been a few chapters, but instead it was a page or two (or so it felt). Same thing with the conflict at the end. Weeks go by, but for the reader, it was only a chapter.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I was hooked from the beginning and I found Allegra and Cord's relationship angsty, slow burn, and layered. This was my first book by this author, but I will definitely be reading more!
Thank you to Putnam Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book to review! All opinions are my own.
I loved how we met our hero, Cord! It was such a fun meet cute, and it set them up to compliment each other (Allegra is in her head, but precise; Cord has fluidity to his movements). I liked that ballet was part of his backstory, and it set up their conflict, which was a solid string throughout the plot. I wish tap dancing specifically had been a bigger part of their dances, only because she was so impressed with his tap dancing. I also wish we'd gotten a little more insight into him in his business role. We saw Cord dancing and choreographing a lot. But managing a business, not so much.
Their romance was everything I want in a romance: slow burn, but with lots of tension, forced proximity (they dance together a lot), and longing looks. I also love when the hero makes a big decision without the heroine knowing (i.e. when he booked a flight home early so he could go to the food festival with her).
The representation in here was really great! I loved seeing so many bisexual characters, as well as a nonbinary character.
The only part I wish was different in this book was how quickly time passed. I feel like her sister's wedding could've been drawn out a little more. Even the lead up to the wedding could've been a few chapters, but instead it was a page or two (or so it felt). Same thing with the conflict at the end. Weeks go by, but for the reader, it was only a chapter.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I was hooked from the beginning and I found Allegra and Cord's relationship angsty, slow burn, and layered. This was my first book by this author, but I will definitely be reading more!
Thank you to Putnam Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book to review! All opinions are my own.
September 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC of Toe to Toe by Falon Ballard.
I read this as a palate cleanser after a much darker ballet-themed book and it delivered on that front—it’s light, quick and easy to get through. The story follows Allegra, a driven ballet dancer fighting for a role her director doesn’t believe she’s ready for. Along the way, she forms a connection with Cord, a talented and supportive male dancer with a complicated past.
I enjoyed both Allegra and Cord as characters and I thought their relationship developed naturally, with some sweet & spicy moments throughout. Watching Allegra come into her own, both personally and professionally, was satisfying. That said, there was just something missing that kept me from fully engaging.
The pacing was decent, but the ending felt a bit rushed and some character arcs (especially side characters) weren’t as fully explored as I would’ve liked. Allegra’s issues at the company were never really addressed, which felt like a missed opportunity, even if it's realistic that someone might avoid that kind of confrontation.
Cord’s “secret past” didn’t land as strongly for me either—the conflict felt overblown and I struggled to understand his anger in certain scenes. That emotional inconsistency, combined with some repetitive dialogue and looping conversations, made the story feel like it never quite hit its stride. At times, the romance overshadowed other important story elements, making some scenes feel less believable.
Overall, while I liked several elements of the book, the story as a whole felt a bit underwhelming to me. Still, it was a pleasant enough read and might be a good pick for fans of lighter, character-driven romance with a dance backdrop.
I read this as a palate cleanser after a much darker ballet-themed book and it delivered on that front—it’s light, quick and easy to get through. The story follows Allegra, a driven ballet dancer fighting for a role her director doesn’t believe she’s ready for. Along the way, she forms a connection with Cord, a talented and supportive male dancer with a complicated past.
I enjoyed both Allegra and Cord as characters and I thought their relationship developed naturally, with some sweet & spicy moments throughout. Watching Allegra come into her own, both personally and professionally, was satisfying. That said, there was just something missing that kept me from fully engaging.
The pacing was decent, but the ending felt a bit rushed and some character arcs (especially side characters) weren’t as fully explored as I would’ve liked. Allegra’s issues at the company were never really addressed, which felt like a missed opportunity, even if it's realistic that someone might avoid that kind of confrontation.
Cord’s “secret past” didn’t land as strongly for me either—the conflict felt overblown and I struggled to understand his anger in certain scenes. That emotional inconsistency, combined with some repetitive dialogue and looping conversations, made the story feel like it never quite hit its stride. At times, the romance overshadowed other important story elements, making some scenes feel less believable.
Overall, while I liked several elements of the book, the story as a whole felt a bit underwhelming to me. Still, it was a pleasant enough read and might be a good pick for fans of lighter, character-driven romance with a dance backdrop.
September 5, 2025
For those of us who grew up with step up and center stage: turn it up (because Allegra is right and Center Stage is before our time), you are going to eat this story up.
This was a spicy, ballerina x exotic male dancer love story riddled with personal growth and working through trauma.
I loved the way Cord taught Allegra to value herself both emotionally and physically. While some of their “lessons” were cheesy, it was so enjoyable to watch her character blossom. It was even better that much of her growth was able to happen off the page from Cord, even with his influence. Her shoot with Ava was one of my favorite moments of the story. I’m so glad that Allegra didn’t give up her dream for Cord—I never find it to be an empowering love story when one party is made to sacrifice their dream. Real love is compromise, and Ballard really nailed it here.
I found I wanted a little more detail on Cord and Chloe’s past with ballet. There was a lot of loose allusion, but not really a clear history that would invoke the type of reaction Cord himself has to ballet. I enjoyed when he rediscovered his love of ballet through watching him and Chloe dance.
It was a bit odd that both Allegra and her sister and Cord and his sister were depicted as bisexual. There was a lot of emphasis on it with no real plot driven purpose, and it felt like that was told more than shown making it feel inauthentic.
Overall, I really enjoyed watching Allegra and Cord’s story unfold. I have such a soft spot for the prim and proper ballerina softening for love and this story really hit the spot.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this story early!
This was a spicy, ballerina x exotic male dancer love story riddled with personal growth and working through trauma.
I loved the way Cord taught Allegra to value herself both emotionally and physically. While some of their “lessons” were cheesy, it was so enjoyable to watch her character blossom. It was even better that much of her growth was able to happen off the page from Cord, even with his influence. Her shoot with Ava was one of my favorite moments of the story. I’m so glad that Allegra didn’t give up her dream for Cord—I never find it to be an empowering love story when one party is made to sacrifice their dream. Real love is compromise, and Ballard really nailed it here.
I found I wanted a little more detail on Cord and Chloe’s past with ballet. There was a lot of loose allusion, but not really a clear history that would invoke the type of reaction Cord himself has to ballet. I enjoyed when he rediscovered his love of ballet through watching him and Chloe dance.
It was a bit odd that both Allegra and her sister and Cord and his sister were depicted as bisexual. There was a lot of emphasis on it with no real plot driven purpose, and it felt like that was told more than shown making it feel inauthentic.
Overall, I really enjoyed watching Allegra and Cord’s story unfold. I have such a soft spot for the prim and proper ballerina softening for love and this story really hit the spot.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this story early!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
A 3.5 ⭐️ dance romance!
Allegra is in a tough situation - the new ballet she’s hoping to land the leading role in is a sexy modern ballet but there’s one problem. Her horrible director basically tells her she’s not sexy enough for this role. While at an all male dance revue for her sisters bachelorette she gets an idea - to ask the star of the show (and turns out owner of the club franchise) to teach her how to bring more passion into her dancing. When they first meet Cord is struck by Allegra and sets up different classes and experiences for them both together and on her own to help Allegra find passion in her dancing and prepare for the upcoming audition. They also choreograph together a piece for his own show and the reception of it is electric. While they struggle with their own issues, they work to fight for their relationship and end up with their HEA. This feels like Magic Mike meets Dirty Dancing meets Center Stage and I love that!!
I admit I am a SUCKER for a ballet dancing FMC and any sort of dancing being involved in the plot, which definitely earned this story some points. I also really loved how Cord helped build up Allegra’s confidence and encouraged her to find things for herself that she loved, find moments of joy. That said, I felt like some of the conflict with the “ballet vs relationship” and the ultimatum took some of the enjoyment away for me. But still overall a fun read and I love to see ballet get more of a spotlight in these stories!!
Thank you Falon, Putnam and NetGalley for the ARC!!
Allegra is in a tough situation - the new ballet she’s hoping to land the leading role in is a sexy modern ballet but there’s one problem. Her horrible director basically tells her she’s not sexy enough for this role. While at an all male dance revue for her sisters bachelorette she gets an idea - to ask the star of the show (and turns out owner of the club franchise) to teach her how to bring more passion into her dancing. When they first meet Cord is struck by Allegra and sets up different classes and experiences for them both together and on her own to help Allegra find passion in her dancing and prepare for the upcoming audition. They also choreograph together a piece for his own show and the reception of it is electric. While they struggle with their own issues, they work to fight for their relationship and end up with their HEA. This feels like Magic Mike meets Dirty Dancing meets Center Stage and I love that!!
I admit I am a SUCKER for a ballet dancing FMC and any sort of dancing being involved in the plot, which definitely earned this story some points. I also really loved how Cord helped build up Allegra’s confidence and encouraged her to find things for herself that she loved, find moments of joy. That said, I felt like some of the conflict with the “ballet vs relationship” and the ultimatum took some of the enjoyment away for me. But still overall a fun read and I love to see ballet get more of a spotlight in these stories!!
Thank you Falon, Putnam and NetGalley for the ARC!!
August 26, 2025
This was hands down, Falon Ballard’s best book to date. I finished this in less than 12 hours…on a workday.
In this novel we follow ballerina Allegra and dancer/entrepreneur Cord. Allegra is hell bent on earning the leading role in her company’s next production, but she lacks the passion and flirtation needed for this role. After seeing Cord perform a sensual striptease, she asks him to help her spice up her routine and learn to embrace her sensuality. As these two salsa dance, partake in some dirty dancing, and spend quality time together, they start to grow closer and closer. But Cord hates the ballet world, and when one spicy video leaves Allegra in the public eye, things get a little messy.
Allegra was an amazing FMC. I loved how she grew. She wasn’t the typical ballerina. She loved what she did, didn’t take crap, but wanted to become better in her own way. Her courage grew with every page.
Cord…that man is FINE. Not only can he totally hold Allegra over his head (with one hand) but he buys her flowers, makes picnic baskets for a movie in the park, and makes her a priority time and time again. Also, that lap dance in the beginning? 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Almost set my kindle of fire. Damn.
This book has everything. There is a slow burn element, but the cute scenes in between make it worth it. By the time these two fall into bed together, you know it’s love.
I don’t know what this book was less than 4 stars at the time of this rating. This is a phonomential read. I look forward to what Ballard is cooking up next.
*An ARC was receive in exchange for an honest review.
In this novel we follow ballerina Allegra and dancer/entrepreneur Cord. Allegra is hell bent on earning the leading role in her company’s next production, but she lacks the passion and flirtation needed for this role. After seeing Cord perform a sensual striptease, she asks him to help her spice up her routine and learn to embrace her sensuality. As these two salsa dance, partake in some dirty dancing, and spend quality time together, they start to grow closer and closer. But Cord hates the ballet world, and when one spicy video leaves Allegra in the public eye, things get a little messy.
Allegra was an amazing FMC. I loved how she grew. She wasn’t the typical ballerina. She loved what she did, didn’t take crap, but wanted to become better in her own way. Her courage grew with every page.
Cord…that man is FINE. Not only can he totally hold Allegra over his head (with one hand) but he buys her flowers, makes picnic baskets for a movie in the park, and makes her a priority time and time again. Also, that lap dance in the beginning? 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Almost set my kindle of fire. Damn.
This book has everything. There is a slow burn element, but the cute scenes in between make it worth it. By the time these two fall into bed together, you know it’s love.
I don’t know what this book was less than 4 stars at the time of this rating. This is a phonomential read. I look forward to what Ballard is cooking up next.
*An ARC was receive in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2025
Out March 10th, 2026
Toe to Toe by Falon Ballard, Allegra Hart is a fiercely dedicated ballerina with one dream: to become a principal dancer. When her company announces auditions for the lead role in their latest production, Allegra sees it as her golden opportunity. But there’s a catch—the director wants someone with undeniable sex appeal, and he doesn’t think Allegra fits the bill. Determined to prove him wrong and claim the spotlight, she turns to an unlikely ally: Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer turned star of an all-male revue.
Cord is as talented as he is magnetic, and Allegra proposes a trade—he’ll teach her how to exude the confidence and allure the role demands, and she’ll help him choreograph a new partner piece for his show. As they rehearse together, sparks fly both on and off the stage. But Cord has a strict rule: never partner with a ballerina. Their growing attraction threatens not only their professional boundaries but also Allegra’s long-held ambitions.
Set against the backdrop of dance, ambition, and undeniable chemistry, Toe to Toe is a contemporary romance that pirouettes between passion and personal growth. Falon Ballard crafts a story that explores what it means to fight for your dreams while risking your heart. Allegra must decide whether love and career can coexist—or if choosing one means losing the other.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
Toe to Toe by Falon Ballard, Allegra Hart is a fiercely dedicated ballerina with one dream: to become a principal dancer. When her company announces auditions for the lead role in their latest production, Allegra sees it as her golden opportunity. But there’s a catch—the director wants someone with undeniable sex appeal, and he doesn’t think Allegra fits the bill. Determined to prove him wrong and claim the spotlight, she turns to an unlikely ally: Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer turned star of an all-male revue.
Cord is as talented as he is magnetic, and Allegra proposes a trade—he’ll teach her how to exude the confidence and allure the role demands, and she’ll help him choreograph a new partner piece for his show. As they rehearse together, sparks fly both on and off the stage. But Cord has a strict rule: never partner with a ballerina. Their growing attraction threatens not only their professional boundaries but also Allegra’s long-held ambitions.
Set against the backdrop of dance, ambition, and undeniable chemistry, Toe to Toe is a contemporary romance that pirouettes between passion and personal growth. Falon Ballard crafts a story that explores what it means to fight for your dreams while risking your heart. Allegra must decide whether love and career can coexist—or if choosing one means losing the other.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
August 28, 2025
4 Stars
Toe to Toe is my favorite book of Falon’s so far. You get plenty of tension and boy is this super steamy but in all the best ways. You can feel the attraction between Cord and Allegra from the start. Sometimes instant attraction doesn’t work but Falon really sold it. I didn’t doubt they wanted each other for a second. This book will have you smiling and giggling to yourself.
Allegra is a strong beautiful woman that lacks confidence. It was so refreshing to see Cord acknowledge that lack of confidence and force Allegra to see how amazing she was. Everyone needs someone like that in their lives. I love how she stood up for herself and her ballet career. I appreciated she didn’t halt her life because of a man. You read too many romance books where that’s the case. Don’t worry, Cord comes to his senses!
Cord is adorable but has a dark emotional past. Even though it took awhile (a little too long in my opinion) for him to work on his traumas I’m so relieved he did. Falon wrote him with so much emotional depth. You could really feel his inner turmoil as the main relationship progressed. I loved the portrayal of therapy and the positive light that was placed on it. A breath of fresh air to see a man so open with his feelings and willing to seek help.
This book is fun and sexy but also has some dark emotional elements. So worth the read!
Thanks to Falon Ballard, Putnam Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
Toe to Toe is my favorite book of Falon’s so far. You get plenty of tension and boy is this super steamy but in all the best ways. You can feel the attraction between Cord and Allegra from the start. Sometimes instant attraction doesn’t work but Falon really sold it. I didn’t doubt they wanted each other for a second. This book will have you smiling and giggling to yourself.
Allegra is a strong beautiful woman that lacks confidence. It was so refreshing to see Cord acknowledge that lack of confidence and force Allegra to see how amazing she was. Everyone needs someone like that in their lives. I love how she stood up for herself and her ballet career. I appreciated she didn’t halt her life because of a man. You read too many romance books where that’s the case. Don’t worry, Cord comes to his senses!
Cord is adorable but has a dark emotional past. Even though it took awhile (a little too long in my opinion) for him to work on his traumas I’m so relieved he did. Falon wrote him with so much emotional depth. You could really feel his inner turmoil as the main relationship progressed. I loved the portrayal of therapy and the positive light that was placed on it. A breath of fresh air to see a man so open with his feelings and willing to seek help.
This book is fun and sexy but also has some dark emotional elements. So worth the read!
Thanks to Falon Ballard, Putnam Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
September 1, 2025
You know the popular audio from Modern Family of Cam saying “I just want to dance at the ballet?” Well, that is all I kept hearing in my brain while reading this book, along with images of Channing Tatum in Magic Mike.
Anyway, this book was okay for the most part. It was kind of hard for me to be completely interested in 75% of the plot when I have never been into ballet and the routine of that aspect of Allegra’s life was very repetitive.
I also didn’t root for these two as a couple at all and can’t see them working out very far past the epilogue. It was apparent from the get-go that this relationship was built on attraction and due to the course of their lessons, that’s all I got from them. Cord had an extreme distrust of the ballet industry, which I did not blame him, but it's apparent that while these two worked everything out by the end, it could definitely become a problem in the future. I mean we did have a second act AND third act conflict moment.
I did enjoy most of the side characters in this book though! I was kind of bummed to see Noah and Lucy as a couple in the epilogue because I thought the setup we had of the two of them could be a sequel which I would’ve been HIGHLY interested in.
Overall it was a good book, not a great one but not a bad one either.
Thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and the author for an advanced copy of the e-book in exchange for a honest review.
Anyway, this book was okay for the most part. It was kind of hard for me to be completely interested in 75% of the plot when I have never been into ballet and the routine of that aspect of Allegra’s life was very repetitive.
I also didn’t root for these two as a couple at all and can’t see them working out very far past the epilogue. It was apparent from the get-go that this relationship was built on attraction and due to the course of their lessons, that’s all I got from them. Cord had an extreme distrust of the ballet industry, which I did not blame him, but it's apparent that while these two worked everything out by the end, it could definitely become a problem in the future. I mean we did have a second act AND third act conflict moment.
I did enjoy most of the side characters in this book though! I was kind of bummed to see Noah and Lucy as a couple in the epilogue because I thought the setup we had of the two of them could be a sequel which I would’ve been HIGHLY interested in.
Overall it was a good book, not a great one but not a bad one either.
Thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and the author for an advanced copy of the e-book in exchange for a honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
Okay so this was somehow the first book I’ve read by Fallon Ballard, but it certainly will not be my last! I started reading this on a plane and then stayed up the rest of the night to finish it.
This book has all of the sexy fun of the best dance movies (your step ups, your bring it ons, your magic mikes), while also exploring the very real challenges of being a professional dancer.
Allegra Hart is a skilled and dedicated ballerina, but when her director tells her she has to up her sex appeal to land a principle role (like the beginning of Black Swan, but the comparisons stop there), she enlists Cord Donvan to help teach her how after seeing him bring down the house with a Chippendales-esque routine at her sister’s bachelorette party.
You could tell this book was very well researched and the author put a lot of thought into creating the texture of these character’s day-to-day lives as well as their complicated backstories.
Allegra and Cord’s banter was amazing, all the sexy teaching/dancing moments had me literally kicking my feet, and by the end I really was really rooting for them to find a way to make it work despite the very believable obstacles that stood in their way.
I can’t recommend this one enough, especially if you eat up any dance-adjacent media the way I do (rip Bunheads 🪦).
Huge thanks to Putnam for the early copy in exchange for a fair and honest review!
This book has all of the sexy fun of the best dance movies (your step ups, your bring it ons, your magic mikes), while also exploring the very real challenges of being a professional dancer.
Allegra Hart is a skilled and dedicated ballerina, but when her director tells her she has to up her sex appeal to land a principle role (like the beginning of Black Swan, but the comparisons stop there), she enlists Cord Donvan to help teach her how after seeing him bring down the house with a Chippendales-esque routine at her sister’s bachelorette party.
You could tell this book was very well researched and the author put a lot of thought into creating the texture of these character’s day-to-day lives as well as their complicated backstories.
Allegra and Cord’s banter was amazing, all the sexy teaching/dancing moments had me literally kicking my feet, and by the end I really was really rooting for them to find a way to make it work despite the very believable obstacles that stood in their way.
I can’t recommend this one enough, especially if you eat up any dance-adjacent media the way I do (rip Bunheads 🪦).
Huge thanks to Putnam for the early copy in exchange for a fair and honest review!
August 24, 2025
Allegra (27) sees a chance to become a principal ballerina at the prestigious NYC ballet company she dances for by nailing an upcoming audition -- and an unconventional way to do so.
Cord (33) cut ties with anything ballet years ago, but can't help but agree to Allegra's request for him to teach her how to incorporate sex appeal into her dance style. All she has to do is agree to his methods and choreograph a routine with him to try out at his normally all-male-review club.
It was a pleasure to watch these two dancers benefit personally from a professional partnership that becomes more.
They were each interesting on their own, but their circle of friends and coworkers enhanced it. The living thing that is NYC and all its available ways to find yourself by exploring it was a treat, too.
Lots of feelings, sensuality, humor and great storytelling. Even while addressing frustrations with the uglier side of ballet, it never got too heavy to carry the the hope. Another hit by Ballard.
I was impatient so I read an ebook ARC via NetGalley. Pub date is 3/10/26.
Read the content warnings.
Read if you like:
• Contemporary romance
• Men who respect, uplift and empower women
• Dual POV
• The art of dance
• He loses his mind at the sound of her laugh
• Open door spice
Cord (33) cut ties with anything ballet years ago, but can't help but agree to Allegra's request for him to teach her how to incorporate sex appeal into her dance style. All she has to do is agree to his methods and choreograph a routine with him to try out at his normally all-male-review club.
It was a pleasure to watch these two dancers benefit personally from a professional partnership that becomes more.
They were each interesting on their own, but their circle of friends and coworkers enhanced it. The living thing that is NYC and all its available ways to find yourself by exploring it was a treat, too.
Lots of feelings, sensuality, humor and great storytelling. Even while addressing frustrations with the uglier side of ballet, it never got too heavy to carry the the hope. Another hit by Ballard.
I was impatient so I read an ebook ARC via NetGalley. Pub date is 3/10/26.
Read the content warnings.
Read if you like:
• Contemporary romance
• Men who respect, uplift and empower women
• Dual POV
• The art of dance
• He loses his mind at the sound of her laugh
• Open door spice
August 30, 2025
I will read ANYTHING written by Falon Ballard.
Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who has her sights set on being the principal dancer for her ballet company, but she needs the help of Cord, a handsome stripper/entrepreneur, to develop her "sex appeal." The dark side of being a ballerina becomes apparent as Allegra fights to meet the pressures and expectations of her director and her mom - no one knows better than Cord, who has a history with ballet and has made his dislike for the industry clear. While overall lighthearted, the book touches on deep topics, such as sexual assault in the workplace and manipulation and control from people in power. As Cord helps Allegra with her confidence and pushes her out of her comfort zone, Allegra develops a stronger sense of self, realizing that she needs to live her life under her own terms.
Cord is also battling his own demons. Being with Allegra brings up his own trauma with ballet, and he realizes that he is not yet over what had happened to him. As a result, he is forced to confront his trauma when it begins to interfere with his relationship with Allegra.
From the beginning, Allegra and Cord have a lot of chemistry - when they dance together, the tension is palpable. More than that, they help each other become stronger individuals and bring out the best in each other.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the ARC!
Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who has her sights set on being the principal dancer for her ballet company, but she needs the help of Cord, a handsome stripper/entrepreneur, to develop her "sex appeal." The dark side of being a ballerina becomes apparent as Allegra fights to meet the pressures and expectations of her director and her mom - no one knows better than Cord, who has a history with ballet and has made his dislike for the industry clear. While overall lighthearted, the book touches on deep topics, such as sexual assault in the workplace and manipulation and control from people in power. As Cord helps Allegra with her confidence and pushes her out of her comfort zone, Allegra develops a stronger sense of self, realizing that she needs to live her life under her own terms.
Cord is also battling his own demons. Being with Allegra brings up his own trauma with ballet, and he realizes that he is not yet over what had happened to him. As a result, he is forced to confront his trauma when it begins to interfere with his relationship with Allegra.
From the beginning, Allegra and Cord have a lot of chemistry - when they dance together, the tension is palpable. More than that, they help each other become stronger individuals and bring out the best in each other.
Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the ARC!
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