A review by betweentheshelves
Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon

emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for providing me with an advanced copy of this to review! First of all, can we appreciate the gorgeous cover for this book? Nicola Yoon’s books are always pretty in some way, but I think this one takes the cake.

Right from the beginning, it’s easy to fall in love with Evie and her cynical ways. She’s transformed from a hopeless romantic to someone who doesn’t believe in true love. Evie’s voice carries you throughout the novel, fully enveloping you into her world. I think Yoon has a knack for writing strong characters, and this shines in this book.

The premise also felt fresh and unique to me. While the basic plotline isn’t one that’s necessarily anything new, I think Yoon put a spin on it that made it feel that way. The way that dancing contributes to Evie and X’s relationship also drives the story forward, and watching their relationship evolve as Evie opens herself back up again is a truly magical thing.

Don’t be fooled, though! Even though this book looks like an upbeat, happy book, it’s also about heartbreak. And the fact that just because there may be heartbreak in the future doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve to be happy in the moment. Trying to prevent tragedy just takes away from your happiness.

Seriously, I read this entire book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I think this might be Yoon’s best book yet. It had everything you could want in a summer romance, and I highly recommend it! 



This is definitely Yoon's best book to date. Mostly romance with discussions of some deeper topics. Honestly, I couldn't put it down. Stay tuned for a full review to come soon!
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