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A review by sophiareadstoomuch
The Ballerinas by Rachel Kapelke-Dale
4.0
The way that this book is miscategorized will be my villain origin story.
To put it simply: THIS IS NOT A THRILLER
It was more of a contemporary with secrets and a slightly thrilling ending (which would’ve been better if it was less thrilling imo, more on that later) That’s perfect for me since I’m really not in a thriller mood.
But I am in a mood to read about ballerinas, because I’ll pick up anything that even mentions dance. And this book did justice to my love of ballet because it immersed me into the world of POB (Paris Opera Ballet) and the drama.
I loved the cutthroat and competitive atmosphere of POB, and how rivalries formed among the girls. The book also didn’t shy away from the uglier sides of ballet: the dancers’ sacrifices, the endurance of pain, rivalries, and how women typically have a shorter career than men.
I also enjoyed reading about the three main characters and their complicated relationships with each other. They are quite unlikeable at some points, but I didn’t really mind that.
The only issue I had was with the thriller elements. The big reveal was so underwhelming. And the ending felt quite unrealistic and rushed.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed the book. Honestly would’ve been better if the book either leans into the thriller elements more or leans into the contemporary genre.
To put it simply: THIS IS NOT A THRILLER
It was more of a contemporary with secrets and a slightly thrilling ending (which would’ve been better if it was less thrilling imo, more on that later) That’s perfect for me since I’m really not in a thriller mood.
But I am in a mood to read about ballerinas, because I’ll pick up anything that even mentions dance. And this book did justice to my love of ballet because it immersed me into the world of POB (Paris Opera Ballet) and the drama.
I loved the cutthroat and competitive atmosphere of POB, and how rivalries formed among the girls. The book also didn’t shy away from the uglier sides of ballet: the dancers’ sacrifices, the endurance of pain, rivalries, and how women typically have a shorter career than men.
I also enjoyed reading about the three main characters and their complicated relationships with each other. They are quite unlikeable at some points, but I didn’t really mind that.
The only issue I had was with the thriller elements. The big reveal was so underwhelming. And the ending felt quite unrealistic and rushed.
Spoiler
Also, since when are we pushing the “if you don’t treat my friend well, I’ll kill you without any consequences” agenda?Otherwise, I really enjoyed the book. Honestly would’ve been better if the book either leans into the thriller elements more or leans into the contemporary genre.