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First Position
Anastasia Mikhelson is the rising star of the New York City Ballet. She’s sacrificed creature comforts, a social life, as well as her own physical well-being for perfection in dance. Even her reputation as The Ice Queen doesn’t faze her. Though Ana’s at the peak of her career, competition from a new and noteworthy dancer puts all she’s worked for in jeopardy.
While Natalie Frederico has shown herself to be a prodigy when it comes to ballet, she much prefers modern dance and living on her own terms. Life is too short for anything else. However, when the opportunity to dance with the New York City Ballet is thrust upon her, it’s not like she could say no. Dealing with the company’s uptight lead is another story, however. When the two are forced to work side-by-side, sparks begin to fly onstage and off.
While Natalie Frederico has shown herself to be a prodigy when it comes to ballet, she much prefers modern dance and living on her own terms. Life is too short for anything else. However, when the opportunity to dance with the New York City Ballet is thrust upon her, it’s not like she could say no. Dealing with the company’s uptight lead is another story, however. When the two are forced to work side-by-side, sparks begin to fly onstage and off.
249 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2016
90 people are currently reading
3658 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
32 books2,695 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews
June 29, 2016
How can something so formulaic be so good? You've got to hand it to Melissa Brayden. She's got the style and technique down pat. Match a pair of starkly opposite leads, whip up some sparkling repartee, throw up some impossible hurdles, and sprinkle some secret Brayden-branded pixie dust and you've got another hugely enjoyable read. If we were to examine the pixie dust under the microscope, this is probably what we'd find: (1) Humor—not slapstick, but the kind that just flows naturally and doesn’t try too hard. She has this uncanny ability to mine them from situations and the characters’ personalities that just works. (2) Seamless transitions—which I think is even harder than humor to capture and perfect. She can take a perfectly ordinary, whimsical scene and turn it into something really meaningful and memorable. . Her characters, worlds and dialogue all have a certain kind of charm and vibrancy that’s upbeat, uplifting and feel-good. She tends to lean too much towards the saccharine side. But then always tempers it with one last bit of conflict or heartbreak the characters have to wade through before their eventual HEA. The structure may be formulaic, but the style is all Brayden-original.
In this book, the author takes us into the rigorous and severely stringent world of professional ballet-- from the thrill of auditions to the pain of endless rehearsals, all through the exhilaration of performances and final bows. Ana is all classical ballerina in every single aspect--from the physique, to the discipline, to the well-controlled technique. She’s probably been training for it since she was an embryo :), being the daughter of famous Russian dancers. For Ana, her entire future is set in stone: be the principal dancer of a top ballet company. She goes after this goal with the single-minded focus and dedication of a zombie after the last remaining human, eschewing fun, fast food and friends in favor of endless practice and perfecting her technique.
When we first come upon Ana in the book, she has one foot in the door--an offer to dance the principal role in an original ballet production. But, she is in competition with a total unknown plucked from the wild. Because of the ‘contemporary and edgy’ vibe of the production, the choreographer has chosen an outsider with a good ballet background to alternate with Ana in the lead role.
Natalie quit the rigid world of classical ballet training over a decade ago to do it her way. Over a decade of going it alone, with her own ragtag dance company, has been very fulfilling for Natalie’s creativity and dancing, but unfortunately, not for her finances. A chance to step back into the world of professional ballet as the lead dancer is simply too big to pass up, even if it means dancing under the confining structure and discipline of a very traditional dance company, something that is completely against her nature. It doesn’t help that Ana, the person tasked to help her master the role’s more technical requirements, is cold, unfriendly, and in her opinion, stuck-up. Despite that, she’s finding she can’t keep her eyes off the Ice Queen.
What follows is typical Brayden. Competitive sparks graduate to friendly and beyond, as the two dancers compete and support each other. Ana has to deal with health issues common to ballet dancers while trying to live up to her famous father’s ambitions for her. Meanwhile, Natalie is finding out all over again why she left classical ballet in the first place. Colorful and well-developed supporting characters pepper the book. Some memorable ones include Ana’s Russian father, nosy Audrey and lovely Helen. Many authors have trouble with foreign English. Russian papa’s wording was spot-on. And guess which characters from Ms. Brayden’s other books show up?
In this book, the conflict/heartbreak is much more intense and darker than the usual Brayden, so maybe have some tissues on stand-by, just in case. :) The emotional impact was a little too understated, imho. That’s just nitpicking though. This is a truly enjoyable read and right up there among my favorite romances of the year (probably #1 or near it) :)
4.9 stars
ARC from Netgalley & Bold Strokes Books.
In this book, the author takes us into the rigorous and severely stringent world of professional ballet-- from the thrill of auditions to the pain of endless rehearsals, all through the exhilaration of performances and final bows. Ana is all classical ballerina in every single aspect--from the physique, to the discipline, to the well-controlled technique. She’s probably been training for it since she was an embryo :), being the daughter of famous Russian dancers. For Ana, her entire future is set in stone: be the principal dancer of a top ballet company. She goes after this goal with the single-minded focus and dedication of a zombie after the last remaining human, eschewing fun, fast food and friends in favor of endless practice and perfecting her technique.
When we first come upon Ana in the book, she has one foot in the door--an offer to dance the principal role in an original ballet production. But, she is in competition with a total unknown plucked from the wild. Because of the ‘contemporary and edgy’ vibe of the production, the choreographer has chosen an outsider with a good ballet background to alternate with Ana in the lead role.
Natalie quit the rigid world of classical ballet training over a decade ago to do it her way. Over a decade of going it alone, with her own ragtag dance company, has been very fulfilling for Natalie’s creativity and dancing, but unfortunately, not for her finances. A chance to step back into the world of professional ballet as the lead dancer is simply too big to pass up, even if it means dancing under the confining structure and discipline of a very traditional dance company, something that is completely against her nature. It doesn’t help that Ana, the person tasked to help her master the role’s more technical requirements, is cold, unfriendly, and in her opinion, stuck-up. Despite that, she’s finding she can’t keep her eyes off the Ice Queen.
What follows is typical Brayden. Competitive sparks graduate to friendly and beyond, as the two dancers compete and support each other. Ana has to deal with health issues common to ballet dancers while trying to live up to her famous father’s ambitions for her. Meanwhile, Natalie is finding out all over again why she left classical ballet in the first place. Colorful and well-developed supporting characters pepper the book. Some memorable ones include Ana’s Russian father, nosy Audrey and lovely Helen. Many authors have trouble with foreign English. Russian papa’s wording was spot-on. And guess which characters from Ms. Brayden’s other books show up?
In this book, the conflict/heartbreak is much more intense and darker than the usual Brayden, so maybe have some tissues on stand-by, just in case. :) The emotional impact was a little too understated, imho. That’s just nitpicking though. This is a truly enjoyable read and right up there among my favorite romances of the year (probably #1 or near it) :)
4.9 stars
ARC from Netgalley & Bold Strokes Books.
August 20, 2016
My favorite Brayden book is Waiting in the Wings followed closely by Soho #1, so when I heard about this coming out I was dying to read it. It was good and enjoyable, just not quite as excellent as Waiting in the Wings is.
I liked both characters, but felt that I understood Ana more. I enjoyed how it was not love at first site, but pure frustration. The chemistry was absolutely there and built and built as the book went on.
I also thought Brayden added a bit of a twist I didn't see coming with about 1/3 left in the book. I saw conflict coming, just not like it did.
I also want to mention, I loved the small cameo from my favorite Soho couple.
Brayden, is the ultimate writer of LesFic romance. You just have to read her books and she doesn't disappoint.
I liked both characters, but felt that I understood Ana more. I enjoyed how it was not love at first site, but pure frustration. The chemistry was absolutely there and built and built as the book went on.
I also thought Brayden added a bit of a twist I didn't see coming with about 1/3 left in the book. I saw conflict coming, just not like it did.
I also want to mention, I loved the small cameo from my favorite Soho couple.
Brayden, is the ultimate writer of LesFic romance. You just have to read her books and she doesn't disappoint.
July 1, 2016
So you go about your days reading books, thinking oh yes this one is good, that one over there is so good, and then a Melissa Brayden comes along making everything else seem. . . well just less than. Dancing is an art form, one I was not blessed with. Don’t you snicker now, I have moves, as a matter a fact I can do the can do the Shopping Cart and the Lawnmower like a badass, but that isn’t going to land me on the big stage, there is always hope for America’s Funniest Videos though. Dancing, real dancing, like in First Position is heart stopping beautiful, a vivacious combination of living breathing art and absolute athleticism. Now throw in a heart stopping, angsty, sexy romance with some pirouettes. What do you get, well I’ll tell you, in my opinion you have Melissa Brayden’s best one yet! Bold statement right?
Anastasia “Ana” Mikhelson is all business, all the time. Ballet, ballet and more ballet, there is nothing else in her life literally. She is the product of two famous Russian ballet superstars, her father arguably being the most famous danseur in the world. For Ana life is about living up to her father’s fame, finding his acceptance through her hard work and flawless technical ability. What she lacks and what is holding her from being the best, passion. Ana for the life of her cannot figure out how to capture that fire that she has been told that she is missing. This all changes when a cocky rival, Natalie Frederico shows up to dance with Ana’s company, the New York City Ballet.
Natalie Frederico was a ballet child prodigy. Out of nowhere she was accepted into one of the world’s most prestigious schools. The thing was ballet was too rigid for this free spirit, so she left and headed out to LA to find her own expression of her art. Barely making it, a chance opportunity arrives year’s later for her to dance as a soloist in a new production for the New York City Ballet. While her fire is there and passion exudes from her very pores as she dances, she needs help refining her technique. Who can she turn to for help? You guessed it, the Ice Queen Ana Mikhelson. Watch out for the sparks!
These two have banter, they are competitive as hell with each other, and the whole time you have that great push-pull that really holds your attention and grabs at those little heartstrings. So many times you just catch yourself smiling through the book, almost wanting to lose your page and start from the beginning all over again. It’s sexy, it’s hot, it’s funny, it’s witty, it’s angsty. . .it’s just damn good reading (I have more adjectives, but I stopped myself). This is arguably Melissa Brayden’s best work. Bold statement yes, but I’m sticking by it. Easily one of the top five books I have read this year, easily.
Eleventy billion stars :)
Anastasia “Ana” Mikhelson is all business, all the time. Ballet, ballet and more ballet, there is nothing else in her life literally. She is the product of two famous Russian ballet superstars, her father arguably being the most famous danseur in the world. For Ana life is about living up to her father’s fame, finding his acceptance through her hard work and flawless technical ability. What she lacks and what is holding her from being the best, passion. Ana for the life of her cannot figure out how to capture that fire that she has been told that she is missing. This all changes when a cocky rival, Natalie Frederico shows up to dance with Ana’s company, the New York City Ballet.
Natalie Frederico was a ballet child prodigy. Out of nowhere she was accepted into one of the world’s most prestigious schools. The thing was ballet was too rigid for this free spirit, so she left and headed out to LA to find her own expression of her art. Barely making it, a chance opportunity arrives year’s later for her to dance as a soloist in a new production for the New York City Ballet. While her fire is there and passion exudes from her very pores as she dances, she needs help refining her technique. Who can she turn to for help? You guessed it, the Ice Queen Ana Mikhelson. Watch out for the sparks!
These two have banter, they are competitive as hell with each other, and the whole time you have that great push-pull that really holds your attention and grabs at those little heartstrings. So many times you just catch yourself smiling through the book, almost wanting to lose your page and start from the beginning all over again. It’s sexy, it’s hot, it’s funny, it’s witty, it’s angsty. . .it’s just damn good reading (I have more adjectives, but I stopped myself). This is arguably Melissa Brayden’s best work. Bold statement yes, but I’m sticking by it. Easily one of the top five books I have read this year, easily.
Eleventy billion stars :)
December 17, 2017
When you're used to a such good works from certain authors then there comes a time when their writings just do not have the "IT" factor. Well this book is just that,i had to check to make sure that i was really reading a Melissa Brayden's book. Could not pinpoint exactly the cause of what my struggles and frustrations were to get through this story but i sure had lots of skipping pages going and add to it,it took me extra time to get done because the storyline was not i think written to Ms.Brayden's style,her usual 4 to 5 star rating
September 4, 2016
Firstly, First Position is a very good romance novel. Not my favorite by the author, but ranks third with Kiss the Girl taking first place and How Sweet It Is second. I really liked the leads, as well as a number of equally well-done secondary characters. Brayden has found her formula and she masterfully produces quality books one after the other. So far the only three (more precisely, three and a half) stars in my book are reserved for her debut Waiting in the Wings, but I liked its two leads as secondary characters in this one so much that I will have to read it again to check my ratings.
Secondly, I am fond of ballet music but not so much of ballet dancing. Nevertheless, Brayden is so good at presenting each theme in her stories that even less liked themes are interesting and exciting.
And thirdly, I am very much looking forward to Brayden's next book.
4.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Secondly, I am fond of ballet music but not so much of ballet dancing. Nevertheless, Brayden is so good at presenting each theme in her stories that even less liked themes are interesting and exciting.
And thirdly, I am very much looking forward to Brayden's next book.
4.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
July 9, 2016
What a beautiful love story. Two actually.
Brayden is at the top of her game with First Position. She’s given us a story with heart, hope and a whole lot of wonderful. What sets her novels above the rest? Her ability to turn a simple story into something special, scenes so easy to imagine you think you are watching a movie and a cast you can’t help but admire and wish you knew. It’s an intoxicating combination.
Natalie is a dancer with raw talent and a creative spirit reveling in the freedom she finds in modern dance but struggling financially for her art. When she is asked to audition for a classical ballet company back in New York she is reluctant but accepts the offer.
Ana is rigid and driven to succeed both for herself and to please her father. She has worked hard to become a prima ballerina, perfecting her craft while struggling to find the emotional range needed to win this coveted title.
Two women with completely different work ethics forced to train together makes for an entertaining look at how opposites do attract. It was a pleasure to watch this romance develop in the heart of the theatre world. Ana is the best drawn character I’ve read in Brayden’s growing collection. There is so much depth to her, so much suppressed emotion. Natalie has her role to play but the joy and liberation Ana feels as she discovers her true potential elevates the story from predictable to excellent.
Two love stories you ask? Yes, in my opinion there are two in this novel. Natalie and Ana are the first. The second is the authors love for the Performing Arts. First Position is a love letter to all those involved in theatrical productions of all kinds. Brayden shines when she writes about the lives of her dancers, actors, stage managers and choreographers. She knows the industry and she understands the dedication needed to succeed in front of an audience or behind the scenes. One of my favourite scenes in the novel is a quiet one at the end of a performance when Natalie lingers in the theatre lobby before heading home;
She strolled into the house where the ushers were vacuuming the red carpet after the audience had dispersed and headed out into the world. A singular ghost light stood onstage. She stared at it, the image somehow magical to her, the lonely light that would keep watch until they all returned and did it again the next day. Loc. 3768
Like I said, two love stories.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
Brayden is at the top of her game with First Position. She’s given us a story with heart, hope and a whole lot of wonderful. What sets her novels above the rest? Her ability to turn a simple story into something special, scenes so easy to imagine you think you are watching a movie and a cast you can’t help but admire and wish you knew. It’s an intoxicating combination.
Natalie is a dancer with raw talent and a creative spirit reveling in the freedom she finds in modern dance but struggling financially for her art. When she is asked to audition for a classical ballet company back in New York she is reluctant but accepts the offer.
Ana is rigid and driven to succeed both for herself and to please her father. She has worked hard to become a prima ballerina, perfecting her craft while struggling to find the emotional range needed to win this coveted title.
Two women with completely different work ethics forced to train together makes for an entertaining look at how opposites do attract. It was a pleasure to watch this romance develop in the heart of the theatre world. Ana is the best drawn character I’ve read in Brayden’s growing collection. There is so much depth to her, so much suppressed emotion. Natalie has her role to play but the joy and liberation Ana feels as she discovers her true potential elevates the story from predictable to excellent.
Two love stories you ask? Yes, in my opinion there are two in this novel. Natalie and Ana are the first. The second is the authors love for the Performing Arts. First Position is a love letter to all those involved in theatrical productions of all kinds. Brayden shines when she writes about the lives of her dancers, actors, stage managers and choreographers. She knows the industry and she understands the dedication needed to succeed in front of an audience or behind the scenes. One of my favourite scenes in the novel is a quiet one at the end of a performance when Natalie lingers in the theatre lobby before heading home;
She strolled into the house where the ushers were vacuuming the red carpet after the audience had dispersed and headed out into the world. A singular ghost light stood onstage. She stared at it, the image somehow magical to her, the lonely light that would keep watch until they all returned and did it again the next day. Loc. 3768
Like I said, two love stories.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
July 6, 2016
3.5 Finding Out What's Important Stars
* * * 1/2
I am a sucker for anything Dance related. I took Ballet as a kid and once you have that in you... I think you always consider yourself a dancer. Now that is Not to say I was accomplished on pointe or continued after 11 years old. I segued into musical theater and that was more of the goal for my teen years. I share this so you will understand my quick click for this book.
Hey, it had a perfectly pointed toe shoe! Seriously, though, this book had all the necessary parts needed for a dance lover. It was like a cross of the movies, Center Stage/Black Swan/Terms of Endearment with the added element of a F/F love story.
The blurb lays it all out perfectly. Cloistered, talented Ana has been working to become a Principle Dancer with New York City Ballet. She has overcome comparisons of her famous father's dance accomplishments and endured all of the injuries which are part of the ballet world. She has been a Soloist for far too long per her father's expectations and finally the Company has seemed fit to promote her to the coveted top position of Principle. Ana is thrilled but after informing her father of this huge step, she feels alone. She has never mixed with any of the other dancers on a personal level outside the theater...for she was taught to stay focused and continue to fight for her goals above all else.
There is one thing which is warming her heart... the new production in the works for the upcoming season. She told the choreographer how much she was looking forward to dancing this new part. Unfortunately, he was not as enthused. He felt Ana was extremely talented technically... no doubt... but lacked the heart and soul of the piece. Ana fought to assure him she could open herself and do it justice...and he relinquished and told her she could be part of the audition process.
Free thinking Natalie has been running her own rag tag troupe of dancers doing original choreography in shows around Los Angeles. The locations have been little more than garage level theaters... but her shows have been solid out and word of mouth has sung her praises. Too bad none of those things amounted to financial security. Natalie has never danced for the need of money, it has always been for the love of it. But things have changed and tonight was the last show and end of the company, too.
Natalie pulls herself together at the farewell gathering at their favorite bar, she tells all of her dancers and friends this was the best experience. Her girlfriend Morgan pulls her close and then leads her out to the dance floor where all let loose and enjoy the remaining time together.
Natalie is awaken by the choreographer who has a vision pounding at her door. She agrees to met at the coffee shop and there he tells her of his proposal: He will bring her on as a Soloist and see if she is up to the part he has in mind. It takes Natalie a second to absorb all of this...yet with her company disbanded....this is the perfect opportunity to regroup. The only downside is leaving Los Angeles and her girlfriend Morgan.
Things take off in the book when these two characters meet during the first day back in NYC. Ana, the ever perfect dancer, is there at the barre ready for company class...She is focused on the upcoming audition happening this afternoon for the new production. She has been practicing and strengthening for this season .... her first as a Principle after so many years. Class has started and then blustering in comes Natalie... late and noisy. All turn to see who this person is...and it starts...
What Ana didn't know is the one who was making the decision for the production had already found Natalie, the dancer he feels he needs for his piece. Yes, she was undisciplined and yes, her technical abilities were a bit lacking... But oh, when she danced... you felt everything she was feeling in the moment. She also had been at the School years ago as a prodigy... with a brilliant future ahead in the classical ballet world. Yet, when she had a taste of what the life was, how the dance did not let her bend any rules or be free in the moment, she left it all behind and started on her own dance journey.
We have our premise...Technically Brilliant Closed off Ballerina, one who has put in the time; has played by all the rules waiting for her chance to show everyone. Versus Prodigy Dancer who turned her back on NYC ballet, is Modern, Undisciplined Yet Beauty In Motion. Both have what the production needs...Yet both need what the other has...Beauty in motion needs better Technique- and Ms Prima Ballerina needs more heart and emoting...
The answer is they both will be cast sharing the role- each dancing 3 nights a week and the commandment to help each other - to assist in bringing out the best in both of them.
This story is for those who love the detailed information of dance and also a love story of opposites finding out they bring out the best in each other ... on the stage as well as off. We follow them as they become more than dancers sharing a roll and become lovers together realizing how important this connection is. The discovery of their feeling is a slow burn and works well.
There is also another part of this tale which is... what is your B Plan in life...For a dancer's life is a very singular one...Injuries can happen at anytime. What they do to their bodies in order to give the pubic the beauty on stage is equal to any sports figure... or more. Just like a Gymnast, Basketball, Football, Baseball Player or any Sport Person... one moment they can be soaring at the top of their game...and the next out with a career threatening injury. And if the person did not develop well round interests and support systems, then the future can look very bleak. This book addresses this.
This was my first book by this author and I felt she had all of the necessary dance information for authenticity. She gave us the love of dance coupled with strong women loving each other.
A gifted copy was provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2
I am a sucker for anything Dance related. I took Ballet as a kid and once you have that in you... I think you always consider yourself a dancer. Now that is Not to say I was accomplished on pointe or continued after 11 years old. I segued into musical theater and that was more of the goal for my teen years. I share this so you will understand my quick click for this book.
Hey, it had a perfectly pointed toe shoe! Seriously, though, this book had all the necessary parts needed for a dance lover. It was like a cross of the movies, Center Stage/Black Swan/Terms of Endearment with the added element of a F/F love story.
The blurb lays it all out perfectly. Cloistered, talented Ana has been working to become a Principle Dancer with New York City Ballet. She has overcome comparisons of her famous father's dance accomplishments and endured all of the injuries which are part of the ballet world. She has been a Soloist for far too long per her father's expectations and finally the Company has seemed fit to promote her to the coveted top position of Principle. Ana is thrilled but after informing her father of this huge step, she feels alone. She has never mixed with any of the other dancers on a personal level outside the theater...for she was taught to stay focused and continue to fight for her goals above all else.
There is one thing which is warming her heart... the new production in the works for the upcoming season. She told the choreographer how much she was looking forward to dancing this new part. Unfortunately, he was not as enthused. He felt Ana was extremely talented technically... no doubt... but lacked the heart and soul of the piece. Ana fought to assure him she could open herself and do it justice...and he relinquished and told her she could be part of the audition process.
Free thinking Natalie has been running her own rag tag troupe of dancers doing original choreography in shows around Los Angeles. The locations have been little more than garage level theaters... but her shows have been solid out and word of mouth has sung her praises. Too bad none of those things amounted to financial security. Natalie has never danced for the need of money, it has always been for the love of it. But things have changed and tonight was the last show and end of the company, too.
Natalie pulls herself together at the farewell gathering at their favorite bar, she tells all of her dancers and friends this was the best experience. Her girlfriend Morgan pulls her close and then leads her out to the dance floor where all let loose and enjoy the remaining time together.
Natalie is awaken by the choreographer who has a vision pounding at her door. She agrees to met at the coffee shop and there he tells her of his proposal: He will bring her on as a Soloist and see if she is up to the part he has in mind. It takes Natalie a second to absorb all of this...yet with her company disbanded....this is the perfect opportunity to regroup. The only downside is leaving Los Angeles and her girlfriend Morgan.
Things take off in the book when these two characters meet during the first day back in NYC. Ana, the ever perfect dancer, is there at the barre ready for company class...She is focused on the upcoming audition happening this afternoon for the new production. She has been practicing and strengthening for this season .... her first as a Principle after so many years. Class has started and then blustering in comes Natalie... late and noisy. All turn to see who this person is...and it starts...
What Ana didn't know is the one who was making the decision for the production had already found Natalie, the dancer he feels he needs for his piece. Yes, she was undisciplined and yes, her technical abilities were a bit lacking... But oh, when she danced... you felt everything she was feeling in the moment. She also had been at the School years ago as a prodigy... with a brilliant future ahead in the classical ballet world. Yet, when she had a taste of what the life was, how the dance did not let her bend any rules or be free in the moment, she left it all behind and started on her own dance journey.
We have our premise...Technically Brilliant Closed off Ballerina, one who has put in the time; has played by all the rules waiting for her chance to show everyone. Versus Prodigy Dancer who turned her back on NYC ballet, is Modern, Undisciplined Yet Beauty In Motion. Both have what the production needs...Yet both need what the other has...Beauty in motion needs better Technique- and Ms Prima Ballerina needs more heart and emoting...
The answer is they both will be cast sharing the role- each dancing 3 nights a week and the commandment to help each other - to assist in bringing out the best in both of them.
This story is for those who love the detailed information of dance and also a love story of opposites finding out they bring out the best in each other ... on the stage as well as off. We follow them as they become more than dancers sharing a roll and become lovers together realizing how important this connection is. The discovery of their feeling is a slow burn and works well.
There is also another part of this tale which is... what is your B Plan in life...For a dancer's life is a very singular one...Injuries can happen at anytime. What they do to their bodies in order to give the pubic the beauty on stage is equal to any sports figure... or more. Just like a Gymnast, Basketball, Football, Baseball Player or any Sport Person... one moment they can be soaring at the top of their game...and the next out with a career threatening injury. And if the person did not develop well round interests and support systems, then the future can look very bleak. This book addresses this.
This was my first book by this author and I felt she had all of the necessary dance information for authenticity. She gave us the love of dance coupled with strong women loving each other.
A gifted copy was provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 19, 2019
First time listening to lesbian fiction on audio book. It was definitely an experience.
Natalie is a show runner in LA. She does art for the meaning and feeling of it. Not the commercial aspect of it. Unfortunately non-commercial doesn't pay the bills and the show has to end. A scout watches their final performance and fairy tale picks her up and drops her into the New York City Ballet. Anna is a stuck up dancer there that only strives to be the best. There is no such thing as a social life for her. She desperately needs to become a main dancer. Natalie and Anna are complete opposites and do not get along. But competition brings them together against their will.
I'm going to say that I didn't quite connect as well as I probably would have normally because I just didn't enjoy the way the characters were voiced. Different inflection choices than how I think sentences would be said. Voices in general for the main characters didn't match what I envisioned the two would sound like. Anna sounded like a wallflower with no gumption and Natalie sounded like a boring husky butch.
The story was OK. But again, with it being my first audio book, it just seemed to drag on forever. I found out how to increase the speed, but only could manage 1.20x before it started sounding too ridiculous to listen to.
I am going to give this a 4 even though I want to give it a 3. My reasoning is because I have a confident feeling that it would have been a 4 or even a 5 had I read it. The pacing would have seemed normal and it would have been my imagination of the characters. And it isn't fair to rate the book overall lower just because I thought I'd give audio a try.
I recommend this book (not audio) to people who like to read about romance, will they/wont they, ballet, modern dance, Broadway, opposites attract, enemies to more, and HDTV.
Natalie is a show runner in LA. She does art for the meaning and feeling of it. Not the commercial aspect of it. Unfortunately non-commercial doesn't pay the bills and the show has to end. A scout watches their final performance and fairy tale picks her up and drops her into the New York City Ballet. Anna is a stuck up dancer there that only strives to be the best. There is no such thing as a social life for her. She desperately needs to become a main dancer. Natalie and Anna are complete opposites and do not get along. But competition brings them together against their will.
I'm going to say that I didn't quite connect as well as I probably would have normally because I just didn't enjoy the way the characters were voiced. Different inflection choices than how I think sentences would be said. Voices in general for the main characters didn't match what I envisioned the two would sound like. Anna sounded like a wallflower with no gumption and Natalie sounded like a boring husky butch.
The story was OK. But again, with it being my first audio book, it just seemed to drag on forever. I found out how to increase the speed, but only could manage 1.20x before it started sounding too ridiculous to listen to.
I am going to give this a 4 even though I want to give it a 3. My reasoning is because I have a confident feeling that it would have been a 4 or even a 5 had I read it. The pacing would have seemed normal and it would have been my imagination of the characters. And it isn't fair to rate the book overall lower just because I thought I'd give audio a try.
I recommend this book (not audio) to people who like to read about romance, will they/wont they, ballet, modern dance, Broadway, opposites attract, enemies to more, and HDTV.
February 6, 2017
I have a lot of feelings about this book so here goes my attempt to translate them into a coherent review.
At first impression I was thinking, this is the Melissa Brayden version of Black Swan, the 2010 film. The characters of Ana and Natalie reminded me a lot of Nina and Lily from that movie, but to be fair, they could be compared to many other pairings with the typical "opposites attract" dynamic: one who is shy and closed off and another who is bright and easygoing and manages to pull the first one out of their shell.
Objectively, I can acknowledge what wasn't so perfect in this book. The characters were hardly super original — Ana who works harder than anyone because of family pressure to be as good as them, Natalie who is a free spirit and doesn't care about money and just wants to do what she loves. Some things were predictable and maybe rushed, maybe a little too cheesy. The big conflict towards the end, although pretty much expected, was by far the saddest amongst the other Brayden books I've read, and then I thought it was resolved a bit too quickly. ()
And yet you can see I gave this the full 5 stars, because this is what Brayden does to me. She follows the same sort of formula of her other books, but makes up for it with... everything else. In the end, what would otherwise bother me just feels so small in comparison to how the story made me feel. Maybe this is partly because I've only read three out of her 6 other novels, so I'm not too tired of her formula just yet, but no book that had me squealing and smiling this much deserves less than 5/5 stars.
I've come to categorize Brayden in my head as the best at mixing fluff and angst. She gives you the sweetest romance, and on the next scene she might just rip your heart out. She can turn even the most mundane of scenes into the best, most meaningful interactions between her characters with just a few well-chosen sentences. The witty kind of charm that her characters have is irresistible, and the natural way she writes humor into the scenes is one of the things I appreciate the most in books.
By the end of the book, I couldn't believe these same characters couldn't stand each other in the beginning; it just felt like a distant memory. But a believable one: if I'd worked as hard as Ana my whole life towards a single goal, only to end up competing with a woman who'd been simply handed the same opportunity despite putting no effort into getting there specifically, you bet I'd be pissed as hell too. And yet, they turned out to be just what the other needed: while Natalie could use a lot of help with her ballet technique and discipline after a lifetime of doing things her own way accompanied by her party-goer girlfriend, Ana desperately needed the passion that Natalie inspired in her, not only so she could do her job better but also find enjoyment in it, and snap out of her exhausting routine of endless hard work and no gratification.
Now, I must take a moment to comment on the best surprise of this book: the special appearances. I couldn't be more thankful if I tried.
So. I've read this in a couple of other reviews already, but I guess there's no better way to say it: Brayden did it again. And this is one of her best.
ARC received from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
At first impression I was thinking, this is the Melissa Brayden version of Black Swan, the 2010 film. The characters of Ana and Natalie reminded me a lot of Nina and Lily from that movie, but to be fair, they could be compared to many other pairings with the typical "opposites attract" dynamic: one who is shy and closed off and another who is bright and easygoing and manages to pull the first one out of their shell.
Objectively, I can acknowledge what wasn't so perfect in this book. The characters were hardly super original — Ana who works harder than anyone because of family pressure to be as good as them, Natalie who is a free spirit and doesn't care about money and just wants to do what she loves. Some things were predictable and maybe rushed, maybe a little too cheesy. The big conflict towards the end, although pretty much expected, was by far the saddest amongst the other Brayden books I've read, and then I thought it was resolved a bit too quickly. ()
And yet you can see I gave this the full 5 stars, because this is what Brayden does to me. She follows the same sort of formula of her other books, but makes up for it with... everything else. In the end, what would otherwise bother me just feels so small in comparison to how the story made me feel. Maybe this is partly because I've only read three out of her 6 other novels, so I'm not too tired of her formula just yet, but no book that had me squealing and smiling this much deserves less than 5/5 stars.
I've come to categorize Brayden in my head as the best at mixing fluff and angst. She gives you the sweetest romance, and on the next scene she might just rip your heart out. She can turn even the most mundane of scenes into the best, most meaningful interactions between her characters with just a few well-chosen sentences. The witty kind of charm that her characters have is irresistible, and the natural way she writes humor into the scenes is one of the things I appreciate the most in books.
By the end of the book, I couldn't believe these same characters couldn't stand each other in the beginning; it just felt like a distant memory. But a believable one: if I'd worked as hard as Ana my whole life towards a single goal, only to end up competing with a woman who'd been simply handed the same opportunity despite putting no effort into getting there specifically, you bet I'd be pissed as hell too. And yet, they turned out to be just what the other needed: while Natalie could use a lot of help with her ballet technique and discipline after a lifetime of doing things her own way accompanied by her party-goer girlfriend, Ana desperately needed the passion that Natalie inspired in her, not only so she could do her job better but also find enjoyment in it, and snap out of her exhausting routine of endless hard work and no gratification.
Now, I must take a moment to comment on the best surprise of this book: the special appearances. I couldn't be more thankful if I tried.
So. I've read this in a couple of other reviews already, but I guess there's no better way to say it: Brayden did it again. And this is one of her best.
ARC received from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2018
An excellent read! My third book by Ms Brayden and I’m getting hooked with her writing. Loved the story which had a feel-good factor; none of the back-stabbing or betrayal which I thought will be part of this writing. 2 strong MCs in Ana and Natalie who are the opposite and yet complement each other. I enjoyed their banters, felt their angst and immersed in their joy!
This is a book that I can read over and over again.
This is a book that I can read over and over again.
August 11, 2016
Oh Melissa Brayden and her super sweet romances, we just can’t quit them. I would probably preorder her next 15 books if they were available. I usually purchase the ebook/paperback combo from bold strokes, and will for sure be purchasing the paperback copy. My favorite authors I rarely request an ARC, but with Brayden’s new book I couldn’t resist. I may not have loved this book as much as her other books because I just listened to her Soho Romances on audiobook. Her books are best read with a little time in between them. When you binge them you pick up on the similarities in the books, and phrases that Ms. Brayden loves to use. These would not have been bothersome had I just not listened to the other books. It doesn’t matter though; this one was fantastic, just like those that came before it. I truly think she is one of the best when it comes to lesbian romance.
Uptight plays by all the rules Ana meets wild child Natalie. Oh how we love a wild child. I love this mix-up. I usually like the free spirit characters more, and Natalie may take the top spot. I enjoyed her character so much in this book. I found myself wanting to shake Ana a few times, but I enjoyed her character too. I think Melissa Brayden excels at dialogue. You find yourself reading the conversation thinking I have had this conversation with my friends. When an author can relate that well, the books will be a hit. Five stars every time. ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review.
Uptight plays by all the rules Ana meets wild child Natalie. Oh how we love a wild child. I love this mix-up. I usually like the free spirit characters more, and Natalie may take the top spot. I enjoyed her character so much in this book. I found myself wanting to shake Ana a few times, but I enjoyed her character too. I think Melissa Brayden excels at dialogue. You find yourself reading the conversation thinking I have had this conversation with my friends. When an author can relate that well, the books will be a hit. Five stars every time. ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review.
February 5, 2020
2O2O Book Challenge
Read A Brayden Once A Week
Brayden hits the nail right on the head once again. Emotional, sensual, romantic, almost everything about this book I adore. It had sweetness laced with heart-melting scenes that totally had me wrapped up in the story. Ana and Natalie made a good combo for a romance story, they are both a little broken which just made for a more believable connection between the characters. Call me silly but I believed their story, I was drawn into the drama and loved and raced along with the pages desperate for the happily ever after. Although predictable, it was just perfect, complete loved up scenes with hot bedroom action all delivered by gorgeous characters who were the complete opposites but complement and complete each other.
Natalie wanted more than just ballet, she dropped out of the prestigious ballet school and made a name for herself in LA. Dancing was in her blood, consumed her soul but it didn't pay the bills. The new prospect in NY was just what she needed but partnering with Ana was like discovering that she ran out of batteries when she needed them the most.
Ballet was the only thing that mattered to Ana, she gave up on everything none ballet related. She was career minded and got to her current position thanks to her own two feet. Ana started from the bottom and finally, it was time for her to grab the principal dancer post. She got it, but her celebration was short-lived, thanks to Natalie.
There were no twists or out-of-the-blue surprises. It was just a sweet story that encompasses the highs and lows of life, the good/bad times, the regrets/what-ifs, and the quest for soul-mate love.
In the end, it is hard not to liiiiike? this book on some levels despite the 2 issues I have with it.
A. Natalie's relationship with her gf, before moving to NY is not serious enough for them to agree to a LDR.
B. I think the 8O% breakup scene is inspired by An Affair To Remember, love Deborah Kerr so love the movie but Brayden's version, pass.
All of us readers need an occasional feel-good romance that put a few frowns, grimaces and smiles on our face and First Position is that kind of book.
Final score - 3¹⅝
Read A Brayden Once A Week
Brayden hits the nail right on the head once again. Emotional, sensual, romantic, almost everything about this book I adore. It had sweetness laced with heart-melting scenes that totally had me wrapped up in the story. Ana and Natalie made a good combo for a romance story, they are both a little broken which just made for a more believable connection between the characters. Call me silly but I believed their story, I was drawn into the drama and loved and raced along with the pages desperate for the happily ever after. Although predictable, it was just perfect, complete loved up scenes with hot bedroom action all delivered by gorgeous characters who were the complete opposites but complement and complete each other.
Natalie wanted more than just ballet, she dropped out of the prestigious ballet school and made a name for herself in LA. Dancing was in her blood, consumed her soul but it didn't pay the bills. The new prospect in NY was just what she needed but partnering with Ana was like discovering that she ran out of batteries when she needed them the most.
Ballet was the only thing that mattered to Ana, she gave up on everything none ballet related. She was career minded and got to her current position thanks to her own two feet. Ana started from the bottom and finally, it was time for her to grab the principal dancer post. She got it, but her celebration was short-lived, thanks to Natalie.
There were no twists or out-of-the-blue surprises. It was just a sweet story that encompasses the highs and lows of life, the good/bad times, the regrets/what-ifs, and the quest for soul-mate love.
In the end, it is hard not to liiiiike? this book on some levels despite the 2 issues I have with it.
A. Natalie's relationship with her gf, before moving to NY is not serious enough for them to agree to a LDR.
B. I think the 8O% breakup scene is inspired by An Affair To Remember, love Deborah Kerr so love the movie but Brayden's version, pass.
All of us readers need an occasional feel-good romance that put a few frowns, grimaces and smiles on our face and First Position is that kind of book.
Final score - 3¹⅝
August 20, 2016
Reading a Melissa Brayden’s romance is like curling on a comfy sofa in the soft glow of a fireplace during Winter. In other words, it makes you feel all warm and cozy while reading about powerful emotions, sweet feelings, and a good dose of nice humorous banter. You’re surrounded by a very feminine, delicate atmosphere.
First Position brings the reader in the world of Ballet. A world, an Art, made of a stern and strict physical discipline on one side, and heart-felt, intensely emotional expressiveness on the other.
As the balance of these two qualities is the ideal that bring forth the masterpiece, in this book they are incarnate in the two leading characters. Ana, daughter of a severe world famous dancer, is all discipline, while Natalie is heart and feelings.
But under all that strict discipline, Ana has also a big, tender heart, just waiting for the right person to dig out.
As the view of the art starts to change from antagonistic to harmonious, sparkling attraction, feelings and love starts to blossom between Ana and Natalie.
One of the things that I appreciate most in Melissa Brayden’s novels, and expecially in this book, is that the main characters really communicate. They talk to each other. They do not spare indefinitely the truth, even when uncomfortable or inconvenient. As a result, true friendship is born. Not just an attraction. Not just an infatuation, not even just superficial comfortable relax in each other’s company. Please authors, take note! If it is friendship that you want to describe, it goes along with sincerity.
And attraction plus true friendship is a solid foundation for love.
There is another beautiful aspect of this book I want to touch. But it’s better to put it under spoiler.
A very beautiful, moving end.
First Position brings the reader in the world of Ballet. A world, an Art, made of a stern and strict physical discipline on one side, and heart-felt, intensely emotional expressiveness on the other.
As the balance of these two qualities is the ideal that bring forth the masterpiece, in this book they are incarnate in the two leading characters. Ana, daughter of a severe world famous dancer, is all discipline, while Natalie is heart and feelings.
But under all that strict discipline, Ana has also a big, tender heart, just waiting for the right person to dig out.
As the view of the art starts to change from antagonistic to harmonious, sparkling attraction, feelings and love starts to blossom between Ana and Natalie.
One of the things that I appreciate most in Melissa Brayden’s novels, and expecially in this book, is that the main characters really communicate. They talk to each other. They do not spare indefinitely the truth, even when uncomfortable or inconvenient. As a result, true friendship is born. Not just an attraction. Not just an infatuation, not even just superficial comfortable relax in each other’s company. Please authors, take note! If it is friendship that you want to describe, it goes along with sincerity.
And attraction plus true friendship is a solid foundation for love.
There is another beautiful aspect of this book I want to touch. But it’s better to put it under spoiler.
A very beautiful, moving end.
July 12, 2016
Excellent book.
It's all been said before great characters, dialogue and authentic settings.
However, not my favourite from this author (that would be Just Three Words), as the ending felt a bit rushed and a slight case of 'bait and switch'. Still a great book.
Book provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
It's all been said before great characters, dialogue and authentic settings.
However, not my favourite from this author (that would be Just Three Words), as the ending felt a bit rushed and a slight case of 'bait and switch'. Still a great book.
Book provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
July 10, 2016
There is no doubt that Melissa Brayden is one of the best LesFic authors out there. As a few other reviewers have said it's crazy that books with a similar formula can still be so good. First Position wasn't my favourite of her books but it was still an excellent read. I don't think I'll read another that I loved as much as How Sweet It Is.
Ana has dedicated her life to ballet, her main aim to reach the top has caused her to isolate herself from friends and colleagues. As well as sacrificing a social life she also puts her body under immense pressure to reach the level she feels she should be at. Natalie is the opposite of Ana, she quit studying ballet to have more freedom in her dancing, she is easygoing, has lots of friends and seems to live for the moment. When a unique opportunity to join the New York City Ballet is given to her she realises she would be mad to turn it down.
When Ana and Natalie are forced to work together we see the the true genius that is Melissa Brayden. She develops characters you can easily relate to, whose interactions with each other have you smiling and even laughing. They feel real, their lives feel real and for me, that's what makes me become immersed in the story.
I won't give anything away but the conflict element of this book was more full on than what we're used to from Brayden. I do think elements of this could have been explored a bit more but it hasn't made me reduced this books 5 star rating because everything else was perfect. We even got to revisit some characters from Braydens other books and in much more depth than just a passing comment.
Great read as usual. When's the next one?
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
Ana has dedicated her life to ballet, her main aim to reach the top has caused her to isolate herself from friends and colleagues. As well as sacrificing a social life she also puts her body under immense pressure to reach the level she feels she should be at. Natalie is the opposite of Ana, she quit studying ballet to have more freedom in her dancing, she is easygoing, has lots of friends and seems to live for the moment. When a unique opportunity to join the New York City Ballet is given to her she realises she would be mad to turn it down.
When Ana and Natalie are forced to work together we see the the true genius that is Melissa Brayden. She develops characters you can easily relate to, whose interactions with each other have you smiling and even laughing. They feel real, their lives feel real and for me, that's what makes me become immersed in the story.
I won't give anything away but the conflict element of this book was more full on than what we're used to from Brayden. I do think elements of this could have been explored a bit more but it hasn't made me reduced this books 5 star rating because everything else was perfect. We even got to revisit some characters from Braydens other books and in much more depth than just a passing comment.
Great read as usual. When's the next one?
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
September 14, 2016
This story is on POINTE. *ignores jeering at beautiful pun*
I knew it. I just knew this would be my favorite Melissa Brayden book ever since I saw its cover. I'm not a dance buff myself, but this world is ultra fascinating. It wasn't difficult to let Brayden take me away.
The initial spark of Ana and Natalie's relationship is one of my favorites: rivals to lovers. We could all see it coming like a Mack truck and that's half the fun, isn't it? And of course, I fell for the ice queen character, Ana. She's so damn stubborn and endlessly adorable. The way she and Natalie complement each other sets a lovely example of a healthy relationship. Pushing, making each other better with a tad of tough love and loads of HGTV.
This quote struck me in particular:
"You were the only path back to myself."
Mmm, yes. Bathe me in romance.
I enjoyed the cameos of previous book's characters, too. I wonder when they'll convene as a huge group. My only beef with the book is their failure to acknowledge that Brooklyn's cooler than Manhattan. ;))
Five stars!
I knew it. I just knew this would be my favorite Melissa Brayden book ever since I saw its cover. I'm not a dance buff myself, but this world is ultra fascinating. It wasn't difficult to let Brayden take me away.
The initial spark of Ana and Natalie's relationship is one of my favorites: rivals to lovers. We could all see it coming like a Mack truck and that's half the fun, isn't it? And of course, I fell for the ice queen character, Ana. She's so damn stubborn and endlessly adorable. The way she and Natalie complement each other sets a lovely example of a healthy relationship. Pushing, making each other better with a tad of tough love and loads of HGTV.
This quote struck me in particular:
"You were the only path back to myself."
Mmm, yes. Bathe me in romance.
I enjoyed the cameos of previous book's characters, too. I wonder when they'll convene as a huge group. My only beef with the book is their failure to acknowledge that Brooklyn's cooler than Manhattan. ;))
Five stars!
July 4, 2018
The grit, resolve and determination it takes to deliver a ballet performance at the level expected was articulated in such a manner that you felt the range of emotion of the dancers, specifically passion, energy and pain. I was swept away with the complexity and growth of Anastasia Mikhelson and Natalie Frederico. It was intoxicating to observe the effect Anastasia and Natalie had on each other. Some of us may wish to have a person in our lives that care about the craft and you to say and do the things necessary to make you want to do not just better but the best that you can possibly do. While getting to know these characters, I thought about work ethic, talent, and strength of character. Yes, this is a story about ballet and so much more. Wonderful and enjoyable read because the characters were wonderful, enjoyable, complex, and likable.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.
August 9, 2016
I can't say much more or better than the reviewers before me. Favorite Brayden tied with Three Little Words. What are you waiting for? Go read it!
November 8, 2016
Yes, yes...it's Brayden, so it could never be bad. It's got a sweet romance, and a nice enough setting. Brayden knows how to write.
However, I can't help but feel a bit frustrated with the whole thing. There's something missing from this book.
The premise is nice. I love stories where characters are artists, because it usually brings a whole new level of feels. Except in First Position, it doesn't. The story falls a bit short emotion wise.
The chemistry is fine in the first third of the book, then kind of dies down. With dancing or anything music related, I expect unbridled passion, but I can just think of one scene in the whole book where I felt it.
What also bothered me was that they get together way too early on. I like the angst that leads up to the getting together part more. In this one it comes after and is really underwhelming and cliché.
I'm used to much more sparks in love stories told by Melissa Brayden. There's always a sort of seemingly insurmountable obstacle between the girls that makes the plot more interesting, which is missing from First Position.
Finally, the more stories I read by this author the more frustrated I get with the overload of witty banter ad repartee. It's not really realistic: people do not speak that way or that well for that matter. Okay, it's nice and light and feel-good. But it's allll the time. There's never any simple, straightforward dialogues, and it gets tiring.
This one missed the mark for me.
However, I can't help but feel a bit frustrated with the whole thing. There's something missing from this book.
The premise is nice. I love stories where characters are artists, because it usually brings a whole new level of feels. Except in First Position, it doesn't. The story falls a bit short emotion wise.
The chemistry is fine in the first third of the book, then kind of dies down. With dancing or anything music related, I expect unbridled passion, but I can just think of one scene in the whole book where I felt it.
What also bothered me was that they get together way too early on. I like the angst that leads up to the getting together part more. In this one it comes after and is really underwhelming and cliché.
I'm used to much more sparks in love stories told by Melissa Brayden. There's always a sort of seemingly insurmountable obstacle between the girls that makes the plot more interesting, which is missing from First Position.
Finally, the more stories I read by this author the more frustrated I get with the overload of witty banter ad repartee. It's not really realistic: people do not speak that way or that well for that matter. Okay, it's nice and light and feel-good. But it's allll the time. There's never any simple, straightforward dialogues, and it gets tiring.
This one missed the mark for me.
August 27, 2016
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
(For those who care about such things, two people from Waiting in the Wings appear and have relatively significant roles); just an FYI in case someone would wish to read that one before this book here (which I’d recommend doing)
This story has seemingly a cast of thousands, but two of them are the most important for today’s discussion, both of whom are roughly 27 years of age. Natalie Frederico and Anastasia Mikhelson.
Natalie Frederico is something of a wild child, rebellious type, who has great dancing talent and spent some time in a prestigious ballet school but found it too restraining, controlling, rule-based and so left without graduating. As the book opens, Natalie is wrapping up a show in Los Angeles, a show she created that mixes classical, and modern dance with ‘mixed media’. A show that’s fabulous successful and always is sold out. As you might expect in such a situation . . . heh, no. Natalie is very much an ‘art before profit!’ type, and so she and her show are being kicked out of their building because she only charges $10 a ticket. A man wanders by, after the last show (actually the next day, but I needed to work in the ‘last show’ part) and offers Natalie a job with the New York City Ballet. Natalie doesn’t really want to have anything to do with ballet, but she doesn’t exactly have any other opportunities pounding on her door, so she agrees to head off to New York.
One little tidbit about a ball and chain around Natalie’s ankle. Always a good thing to toss into a romance story, no? The young Natalie happens to have an adoring girlfriend (I think her name might be Morgan, though it might be something else – the current book I’m reading has someone named Mrs. Morgan Morgan in it, so that’s causing me doubts about the name; okay, looked it up – the girlfriend’s name is in fact Morgan. Weird - that). Right, so, heading off to New York, has a girlfriend – Natalie offers to bring Morgan along. Morgan notes that she would rather just stick around Los Angeles. Veg out. Party. Maybe Morgan is less of an adoring puppy, eh? Well, they decide on trying that ‘long distance’ thing.
Anastasia Mikhelson is the other lead in this here book. She’s fabulous talented, gifted, the kind who can cause grown men to weep with joy upon seeing how technically accurate, how flawless her movements are, while also shuddering in despair at how lifeless, emotionless Ana’s dancing tends to be. The book opens with Anastasia having spent the last nine years slowly moving up the ballet hierarchy. This year though, this year will be hers!
When a new season starts, Ana is warming up in a crowd of ballet dancers, though at the same time somewhat off by herself, since she’s kind of stand-offish (her co-workers call her ‘Frozen’). Just then someone bursts through the door – a late arrival. Ana feels vaguely sad for the girl – first day and she’s late – making a bad impression for her first day as an apprentice (see, Natalie’s addition to the Ballet company is kind of abnormal, atypical, both from not being a ballet school graduate, and for leaping over several levels to land at soloist position).
One thing leads to another and Ana realizes that she actually went to school, ballet school, with this other woman. And was annoyed/irritated by her at the time. And was actually happy when she had dropped out. But here she is again, in the unusual role of leaping up to soloist. Ana’s pissed.
Still, it’s her year. She’s going to lead in a show. She approaches the guy, Roger Eklund (the same guy who invited Natalie to the Ballet company), running that show, is told that she isn’t really right for the role – it calls for someone much better at expressing emotions through their dancing than Ana gives in performances. Ana begs. The guy agrees to watch Ana try out.
Later that afternoon – Ana, Natalie, and several others compete for the lead role of Mira, rehearse. Jason Morales is also there – he’s the lead male and . . . only one invited to the rehearsal (to play the role of Titus). Ana and Natalie compete. Ana’s technically perfect. Natalie’s emotionally perfect. Neither is perfect by themselves.
Roger decides to split the duties. Ana will dance three nights, Natalie three nights, and Jason will be Titus throughout.
To round things out – as noted Jason is Natalie and Anastasia’s dance partner in the show they are putting on. He is also madly in love with Anastasia and is not clued in to the fact that Anastasia doesn’t exactly feel the same way.
Right, so, that’s the basic set-up. Cast of thousands. Some come and go before you can blink and learn their name (the people who worked in Natalie’s Los Angeles show); others hang around like lead balloons (Jason). The two women work together to impart what they both know (Ana helping Natalie with technical stuff; Natalie helping Ana loosen up). And they grow closer together romantically and otherwise, while, in the background, are three ‘things’ – (1) girlfriend Morgan; (2) Ana’s father (super-duper great ballet dude); (3) injuries and the like natural to people who perform strenuous physical activities like professional ballet.
This is my seventh book by Brayden. As I mentioned in some review here or there, there’s a particular formula that Brayden seems to follow. A top-notch writer, so the reader can kind of forgive that formula usage. Except here – yes certain things occurred that kind of followed the formula framework, but it was the smoothest I’ve seen. Seemed natural, organic. Brilliant really.
There are really just two issues that I have with the book – (1) the unexpected entrance of odd ball uses of ‘merde’ (which I learned, along the way from outside the book sources, is something said in ballet) – each unexplained usage of the phrase jerked me out of the story (I mean, I know what it means when someone says to other ‘break a leg’, but merde?); (2) the book is a natural lovely organic story, near perfect in its way and . . . then an epilogue appeared that moved things from natural perfection to cutesy too perfect to breath perfection. Unfortunate that.
Regardless of these two issues, I found that the book is either the best I’ve read by Brayden or tied for first place. A very enjoyable book.
July 5 2016
(For those who care about such things, two people from Waiting in the Wings appear and have relatively significant roles); just an FYI in case someone would wish to read that one before this book here (which I’d recommend doing)
This story has seemingly a cast of thousands, but two of them are the most important for today’s discussion, both of whom are roughly 27 years of age. Natalie Frederico and Anastasia Mikhelson.
Natalie Frederico is something of a wild child, rebellious type, who has great dancing talent and spent some time in a prestigious ballet school but found it too restraining, controlling, rule-based and so left without graduating. As the book opens, Natalie is wrapping up a show in Los Angeles, a show she created that mixes classical, and modern dance with ‘mixed media’. A show that’s fabulous successful and always is sold out. As you might expect in such a situation . . . heh, no. Natalie is very much an ‘art before profit!’ type, and so she and her show are being kicked out of their building because she only charges $10 a ticket. A man wanders by, after the last show (actually the next day, but I needed to work in the ‘last show’ part) and offers Natalie a job with the New York City Ballet. Natalie doesn’t really want to have anything to do with ballet, but she doesn’t exactly have any other opportunities pounding on her door, so she agrees to head off to New York.
One little tidbit about a ball and chain around Natalie’s ankle. Always a good thing to toss into a romance story, no? The young Natalie happens to have an adoring girlfriend (I think her name might be Morgan, though it might be something else – the current book I’m reading has someone named Mrs. Morgan Morgan in it, so that’s causing me doubts about the name; okay, looked it up – the girlfriend’s name is in fact Morgan. Weird - that). Right, so, heading off to New York, has a girlfriend – Natalie offers to bring Morgan along. Morgan notes that she would rather just stick around Los Angeles. Veg out. Party. Maybe Morgan is less of an adoring puppy, eh? Well, they decide on trying that ‘long distance’ thing.
Anastasia Mikhelson is the other lead in this here book. She’s fabulous talented, gifted, the kind who can cause grown men to weep with joy upon seeing how technically accurate, how flawless her movements are, while also shuddering in despair at how lifeless, emotionless Ana’s dancing tends to be. The book opens with Anastasia having spent the last nine years slowly moving up the ballet hierarchy. This year though, this year will be hers!
When a new season starts, Ana is warming up in a crowd of ballet dancers, though at the same time somewhat off by herself, since she’s kind of stand-offish (her co-workers call her ‘Frozen’). Just then someone bursts through the door – a late arrival. Ana feels vaguely sad for the girl – first day and she’s late – making a bad impression for her first day as an apprentice (see, Natalie’s addition to the Ballet company is kind of abnormal, atypical, both from not being a ballet school graduate, and for leaping over several levels to land at soloist position).
One thing leads to another and Ana realizes that she actually went to school, ballet school, with this other woman. And was annoyed/irritated by her at the time. And was actually happy when she had dropped out. But here she is again, in the unusual role of leaping up to soloist. Ana’s pissed.
Still, it’s her year. She’s going to lead in a show. She approaches the guy, Roger Eklund (the same guy who invited Natalie to the Ballet company), running that show, is told that she isn’t really right for the role – it calls for someone much better at expressing emotions through their dancing than Ana gives in performances. Ana begs. The guy agrees to watch Ana try out.
Later that afternoon – Ana, Natalie, and several others compete for the lead role of Mira, rehearse. Jason Morales is also there – he’s the lead male and . . . only one invited to the rehearsal (to play the role of Titus). Ana and Natalie compete. Ana’s technically perfect. Natalie’s emotionally perfect. Neither is perfect by themselves.
Roger decides to split the duties. Ana will dance three nights, Natalie three nights, and Jason will be Titus throughout.
To round things out – as noted Jason is Natalie and Anastasia’s dance partner in the show they are putting on. He is also madly in love with Anastasia and is not clued in to the fact that Anastasia doesn’t exactly feel the same way.
Right, so, that’s the basic set-up. Cast of thousands. Some come and go before you can blink and learn their name (the people who worked in Natalie’s Los Angeles show); others hang around like lead balloons (Jason). The two women work together to impart what they both know (Ana helping Natalie with technical stuff; Natalie helping Ana loosen up). And they grow closer together romantically and otherwise, while, in the background, are three ‘things’ – (1) girlfriend Morgan; (2) Ana’s father (super-duper great ballet dude); (3) injuries and the like natural to people who perform strenuous physical activities like professional ballet.
This is my seventh book by Brayden. As I mentioned in some review here or there, there’s a particular formula that Brayden seems to follow. A top-notch writer, so the reader can kind of forgive that formula usage. Except here – yes certain things occurred that kind of followed the formula framework, but it was the smoothest I’ve seen. Seemed natural, organic. Brilliant really.
There are really just two issues that I have with the book – (1) the unexpected entrance of odd ball uses of ‘merde’ (which I learned, along the way from outside the book sources, is something said in ballet) – each unexplained usage of the phrase jerked me out of the story (I mean, I know what it means when someone says to other ‘break a leg’, but merde?); (2) the book is a natural lovely organic story, near perfect in its way and . . . then an epilogue appeared that moved things from natural perfection to cutesy too perfect to breath perfection. Unfortunate that.
Regardless of these two issues, I found that the book is either the best I’ve read by Brayden or tied for first place. A very enjoyable book.
July 5 2016
October 10, 2020
Melissa Brayden, I LOVE YOU!! I’ve been reading book after book after book by this author and they are all amazing! Like, amazing isn’t even word enough to describe how good these books are. I don’t even think there’s a word that’s good enough to describe these masterpieces. I feel like i’m in heaven every time I pick up a book by Melissa. Her writing style and her stories and her main characters are just everything.
And i have to say I loved this book even more because 4 characters from two other books made a special appearance here and I legit screamed when I saw the names 😅😂 “Seeing” Adrienne and Jenna from Waiting In The Wings and Jessica and Brooklyn from the first book of the Soho series was such a pleasant surprise. It made me miss those books and I’m pretty sure a re-read is in the near future for me.
So, y’all lovely people, you should read this book and all the other books by this splendid author! 100% recommend her whole work.
And i have to say I loved this book even more because 4 characters from two other books made a special appearance here and I legit screamed when I saw the names 😅😂 “Seeing” Adrienne and Jenna from Waiting In The Wings and Jessica and Brooklyn from the first book of the Soho series was such a pleasant surprise. It made me miss those books and I’m pretty sure a re-read is in the near future for me.
So, y’all lovely people, you should read this book and all the other books by this splendid author! 100% recommend her whole work.
July 12, 2016
Ana Mikhelson is the prodigy daughter of two Russian ballet stars. Technically brilliant, she finally rises through the ranks of the New York City Ballet to a leading role. Despite her obsession for ballet, her one weakness on the stage is a lack of emotion.
Her main competition for a new leading role is Natalie Frederico. Shipped in from outside the ballet company, her form is not perfect but what she lacks in precision, she makes up with her passionate and charismatic performances.
The artistic director sees a challenge for both his rising stars, and forces them to work together by sharing the difficult role. Ana is obsessed with technique and precision, and Natalie’s style is more modern, and less precise. Their gradual friendship is a surprise to both of them, but there is still plenty of room to clash. Does the heat between them indicate more is possible?
This is a classic Brayden book. She’s written a number of lesbian romances, and this is one of the better ones. I really liked both the main characters. There was a solid motivation for their personalities and their behaviours, and neither were perfect either.
Brayden’s dialogue is smart and has a lovely ring of truth to it. It’s very cleverly done, to give a sense of us being in the room with the characters, while actually avoiding all the tedious bits of real life.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this is a classic uptight woman meets a wild one, and they both learn from each other. It is so beautifully written that it doesn’t really matter that we can guess what the ending is going to be long before we get there. The delivery is so clever, and the plot points sufficiently plausible that it’s a joy to get there.
I will admit to feeling compelled to finish the book, which meant not turning the light off until 4am, but it was such a good read and I just had to know what happened next. I thoroughly recommend this book.
4.5-5 stars
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Her main competition for a new leading role is Natalie Frederico. Shipped in from outside the ballet company, her form is not perfect but what she lacks in precision, she makes up with her passionate and charismatic performances.
The artistic director sees a challenge for both his rising stars, and forces them to work together by sharing the difficult role. Ana is obsessed with technique and precision, and Natalie’s style is more modern, and less precise. Their gradual friendship is a surprise to both of them, but there is still plenty of room to clash. Does the heat between them indicate more is possible?
This is a classic Brayden book. She’s written a number of lesbian romances, and this is one of the better ones. I really liked both the main characters. There was a solid motivation for their personalities and their behaviours, and neither were perfect either.
Brayden’s dialogue is smart and has a lovely ring of truth to it. It’s very cleverly done, to give a sense of us being in the room with the characters, while actually avoiding all the tedious bits of real life.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this is a classic uptight woman meets a wild one, and they both learn from each other. It is so beautifully written that it doesn’t really matter that we can guess what the ending is going to be long before we get there. The delivery is so clever, and the plot points sufficiently plausible that it’s a joy to get there.
I will admit to feeling compelled to finish the book, which meant not turning the light off until 4am, but it was such a good read and I just had to know what happened next. I thoroughly recommend this book.
4.5-5 stars
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
July 5, 2016
I am a big Melissa Brayden fan and she has never let me down with any of her books. I am excited to say that she didn't disappoint with this book! She creates fun lovable characters with funny dialogue that flows well throughout the book. I also love that her stories aren't predictable, yes she has a similar structure to her books but I never quite know what is going to happen and am often thinking I wasn't expecting that to happen.
I loved the differences between Ana and Natalie and how they complement each other. The chemistry and tension between the two was perfect and had me at the edge of my seat. Loved, love that Adrienne and Jenna had a small part too :)
This is a must read! A guarantee smile!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I loved the differences between Ana and Natalie and how they complement each other. The chemistry and tension between the two was perfect and had me at the edge of my seat. Loved, love that Adrienne and Jenna had a small part too :)
This is a must read! A guarantee smile!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
December 29, 2017
This is a Brayden book - you just know it's going to be a great novel before you start reading...
Ana has always aspired to be the best ballerina through hard work and dedication. Her technique is like no other, however she is very rigid and proper.
Natalie is a carefree spirit who loves variety when it comes to dancing. She doesn’t have the same perfection to match Ana's technique, however what she lacks she makes up for in spirit and passion.
Ana and Natalie are given co-leads for an upcoming ballet show. They must train together and teach each other their different styles of dance.
The writing was very well thought out and rounded. Ana jumped off the pages as a cold, clinical person whom so easily had others referring to her as "Frozen". It wasn't until the bubbly Natalie came into her world that she started to melt… (pardon the pun)
I really do enjoy Brayden's work. Her novels are always well researched and the pacing in the books are spot on.
It was nice to see a cameo toward the end of a couple of familiar names from the Soho series :-)
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Ana has always aspired to be the best ballerina through hard work and dedication. Her technique is like no other, however she is very rigid and proper.
Natalie is a carefree spirit who loves variety when it comes to dancing. She doesn’t have the same perfection to match Ana's technique, however what she lacks she makes up for in spirit and passion.
Ana and Natalie are given co-leads for an upcoming ballet show. They must train together and teach each other their different styles of dance.
The writing was very well thought out and rounded. Ana jumped off the pages as a cold, clinical person whom so easily had others referring to her as "Frozen". It wasn't until the bubbly Natalie came into her world that she started to melt… (pardon the pun)
I really do enjoy Brayden's work. Her novels are always well researched and the pacing in the books are spot on.
It was nice to see a cameo toward the end of a couple of familiar names from the Soho series :-)
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
July 7, 2016
ARC received from Bold Strokes via netgalley for an honest review.
I was dubious at best about a Lesbian romance with two ballerinas. I should have known if anyone could make it work it would be Melissa Brayden. It was a good, solid book. Complex main characters with a fun host of secondary characters that gave the book depth. Classic Brayden formula.
Having said all that, it wasn't my usual 5 start Brayden rating. It didn't quite hit the bar set by "Waiting in the Wings" or "Soho Loft Romances". Easily some of my favorite books of all time.
I wish she had taken a little more time. The relationship felt rushed, the conflict a little contrived and it was all resolved with way too little angst.
But again, it's Melissa Brayden....it's still a solid well enjoyed read!
I was dubious at best about a Lesbian romance with two ballerinas. I should have known if anyone could make it work it would be Melissa Brayden. It was a good, solid book. Complex main characters with a fun host of secondary characters that gave the book depth. Classic Brayden formula.
Having said all that, it wasn't my usual 5 start Brayden rating. It didn't quite hit the bar set by "Waiting in the Wings" or "Soho Loft Romances". Easily some of my favorite books of all time.
I wish she had taken a little more time. The relationship felt rushed, the conflict a little contrived and it was all resolved with way too little angst.
But again, it's Melissa Brayden....it's still a solid well enjoyed read!
October 17, 2016
It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Melissa Brayden’s books or that Kiss the Girl is one of my favourite romances. There are things I’ve come to expect from her writing style, plot construction, and characters. But Natalie is not your typical Brayden heroine and First Position doesn’t have the banter I grew to know and love in the Soho Loft series, and I couldn’t be happier. I was delighted that Melissa Brayden blew all of my expectations out of the water and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us because she’s clearly stepped up her writing game (including with her sex scenes, which wow, were they ever next-level hot).
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/first...
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/first...
April 3, 2017
I wasn't that big of a fan of "Waiting in the Wings" and was pleasantly surprised by "First Position".
I found the characters of Natalie and Ana to be well-defined, excellent opposites, and very convincing. They felt real and the book is a simple, straight-forward satisfying romance. I thought it was great up until a certain point . Something about that incident felt extra tropey and the resolution felt too syrupy sweet for me...BUT, I still felt Ana and Natalie are a really dynamic couple and interesting individuals. Good read.
Note: My brain did screech to a halt when Ana was described as first having brown eyes and then later having blue. Weird that wasn't caught.
I found the characters of Natalie and Ana to be well-defined, excellent opposites, and very convincing. They felt real and the book is a simple, straight-forward satisfying romance. I thought it was great up until a certain point . Something about that incident felt extra tropey and the resolution felt too syrupy sweet for me...BUT, I still felt Ana and Natalie are a really dynamic couple and interesting individuals. Good read.
Note: My brain did screech to a halt when Ana was described as first having brown eyes and then later having blue. Weird that wasn't caught.
August 3, 2017
It's relatively rare that I'll DNF a book I rate higher than two stars and the reasons vary widely. In this case, the romance culminated satisfactorily and I loved where the main characters were and their relationship was outstanding and strong and I totally bought the benefits each brought to the other. So at 70% all I could look forward to was pain and/or stuff going wrong. So, having put it down I found myself increasingly reluctant to pick it back up again.
Anyway, I enjoyed this romance and the strong story and engaging characters. And the ballet thing worked, too. I'm a little sad to leave it a tiny little bit up in the air, but I like where they are and I don't even have to edit in my head or create a satisfying conclusion.
Anyway, I enjoyed this romance and the strong story and engaging characters. And the ballet thing worked, too. I'm a little sad to leave it a tiny little bit up in the air, but I like where they are and I don't even have to edit in my head or create a satisfying conclusion.
January 3, 2021
Full disclosure - I love a performing arts trope. Whether the story is about actors, musicians, dancers, artists... I'm all about them. So this one was right up my alley.
Anastasia Mikhelson has just risen to the highest rank of principal dancer for the New York City Ballet. She has worked for a lot of years to get there at great sacrifice to her body and social life. So when prodigy Natalie Frederico is brought in as a soloist from outside the company, seemingly skipping right over other dancers for a role Ana is also up for, Ana is not happy. Especially when Natalie shows little discipline and a lack of respect for the opportunity she's been given, in spite of her obvious talent.
This is ice queen, friends to lovers romance is an entertaining one and Brayden tamps way down on her usual witty banter. It's still there, but used a bit more sporadically, which I thought was perfect for this story. While the potential for a major issue can be seen from a mile away, Brayden instead pivots and surprises us with something else. And while I wish that maybe some of that had been handled a bit differently, it certainly wasn't an unrealistic choice. I appreciated the appearance of characters from Brayden's other novels Waiting in the Wings and the SoHo series as well. Overall, I loved it and would certainly recommend it to others who love similar tropes.
Anastasia Mikhelson has just risen to the highest rank of principal dancer for the New York City Ballet. She has worked for a lot of years to get there at great sacrifice to her body and social life. So when prodigy Natalie Frederico is brought in as a soloist from outside the company, seemingly skipping right over other dancers for a role Ana is also up for, Ana is not happy. Especially when Natalie shows little discipline and a lack of respect for the opportunity she's been given, in spite of her obvious talent.
This is ice queen, friends to lovers romance is an entertaining one and Brayden tamps way down on her usual witty banter. It's still there, but used a bit more sporadically, which I thought was perfect for this story. While the potential for a major issue can be seen from a mile away, Brayden instead pivots and surprises us with something else. And while I wish that maybe some of that had been handled a bit differently, it certainly wasn't an unrealistic choice. I appreciated the appearance of characters from Brayden's other novels Waiting in the Wings and the SoHo series as well. Overall, I loved it and would certainly recommend it to others who love similar tropes.
July 5, 2016
What can I say only that I was sorry to see it end. I hope she can incorporate these characters just like she brought my favorite couple from the SoHo series even though it was towards the end of the book.
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review
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