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Reverence by Milena McKay
5.0

Reverence by Milena McKay is a stunningly written sapphic romance that transcends its ballet-themed premise, delivering an emotional and richly layered story that left me absolutely breathless. Set in the glitz and tension of the 1980s ballet world, this novel masterfully intertwines love, rivalry, and historical context into a tapestry that feels both grand and deeply personal.

As a former dancer and a lesbian, I knew this book would resonate with me, but it exceeded all my expectations. Juliette and Katarina, the two ballerinas at the heart of the story, are captivating in their contrasts and complexities. Juliette, the adored "Princess of Paris," and Katarina, the enigmatic defector from behind the Iron Curtain, are as different as can be, yet their chemistry is electric and their dynamic absolutely compelling.

I’ll admit the book started a little slow for me, but once it hit its stride, I couldn’t put it down. I was fully immersed in the world of ballet, Parisian glamour, and Cold War-era tension. The historical context is woven in so seamlessly that it enriches the story without overwhelming the romance, making this much more than just a love story.

The side characters are equally well-crafted, playing vital roles in the narrative and offering deeper insights into the main characters. Every relationship—whether friendly, professional, or romantic—feels authentic and significant, adding layers to the story and grounding it in reality.

By the end of the book, I was in tears, overwhelmed by the beauty and depth of what I had just read. Reverence is a celebration of art, love, and resilience, and Milena McKay’s writing elevates it into something truly extraordinary.

Thank you to Milena McKay and Pride Book Tours for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.