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The Sugar Plum Rebellion
Clara Winters has one never let anyone see the ADHD-fueled chaos underneath her ballet perfection.
As the adopted daughter of a ballet legend, she’s spent her entire life proving she belongs by forcing her neurodivergent brain into the Porcelain Princess mold everyone expects. This Christmas Eve Nutcracker is her final audition. One flawless Sugar Plum Fairy performance will land her a prestigious contract and prove she deserves her legacy.
Then, her dance partner snaps his ankle. His only replacement? Trevor Williams, a tattooed, recovering addict from the county arts program next door.
Their partnership should fail. But between heated arguments and hotter stolen glances, their forced proximity turns into late-night rehearsals and vulnerable confessions. Trevor sees the scattered, brilliant woman she's been hiding. Clara reawakens the joy he shut down to stay sober.
Now, with the curtain about to rise on Christmas Eve, Clara must perform the flawless lie that will secure her future, or risk everything for the messy, beautiful truth she found hiding beneath the porcelain.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a witty & heartwarming Christmas dance romance with a touch of angst and a happily ever after. Take the explosive banter of The Hating Game with the dance floor chemistry of Step Up, all wrapped up in a cozy, festive bow. This is an open-door romance with medium heat and tons of simmering tension.
enemies to lovers / rivals to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, dance partners, holiday romance, he falls first, neurodivergent heroine, recovering addict hero, found family
As the adopted daughter of a ballet legend, she’s spent her entire life proving she belongs by forcing her neurodivergent brain into the Porcelain Princess mold everyone expects. This Christmas Eve Nutcracker is her final audition. One flawless Sugar Plum Fairy performance will land her a prestigious contract and prove she deserves her legacy.
Then, her dance partner snaps his ankle. His only replacement? Trevor Williams, a tattooed, recovering addict from the county arts program next door.
Their partnership should fail. But between heated arguments and hotter stolen glances, their forced proximity turns into late-night rehearsals and vulnerable confessions. Trevor sees the scattered, brilliant woman she's been hiding. Clara reawakens the joy he shut down to stay sober.
Now, with the curtain about to rise on Christmas Eve, Clara must perform the flawless lie that will secure her future, or risk everything for the messy, beautiful truth she found hiding beneath the porcelain.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a witty & heartwarming Christmas dance romance with a touch of angst and a happily ever after. Take the explosive banter of The Hating Game with the dance floor chemistry of Step Up, all wrapped up in a cozy, festive bow. This is an open-door romance with medium heat and tons of simmering tension.
enemies to lovers / rivals to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, dance partners, holiday romance, he falls first, neurodivergent heroine, recovering addict hero, found family
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2025
8 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Megan Astraus
1 book14 followersI write messy people and messier kisses.
I'm a software engineer by day and a dreamer by night. When I'm not writing code or imperfect fictional characters, I'm raising two young daughters alongside my #1 Biggest Fan.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is my debut contemporary Christmas romance featuring a perfectionist ballerina, a tattooed dancer in recovery, and one very chaotic Nutcracker rehearsal. Expect found family, second chances, and guaranteed happily ever afters.
I'm a software engineer by day and a dreamer by night. When I'm not writing code or imperfect fictional characters, I'm raising two young daughters alongside my #1 Biggest Fan.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is my debut contemporary Christmas romance featuring a perfectionist ballerina, a tattooed dancer in recovery, and one very chaotic Nutcracker rehearsal. Expect found family, second chances, and guaranteed happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 18, 2025
**4.5-stars rounded up **
💕💚💕💚💕💚💕💚💕💚💕
Let's start this review out with a confession, shall we. As some of you may be aware, I'm not a big Romance Reader. I do read some, but I'm by no means well versed in the genre. For those unaware, I'm a Horror and Dark Fiction girlie, so this would seem way outside my comfort zone.
In fact, as far as Holiday Romances go, I had never read one before. I started my journey in Holiday Romances on December 8th of this year, when I decided to participate in a Holiday Romance Readathon. I committed and threw myself in all the way; as I do.
Prior to the Readathon, I checked out a bunch of books from my library, bought a few paperbacks and checked out what Netgalley had to offer.
Upon seeing this cover, that I have since learned the author, Megan Astraus, designed herself, I knew I had to have it. The ballerina, the snowglobe, the cracked glass, the PINK!
As if the cover alone wasn't enough to sell me though, then I read the synopsis.
This story follows Clara Winters, the adopted daughter of a ballet icon, who is now an up-and-coming ballet dancer in her own right, who has just secured the Sugar Plum Fairy lead in her studio's production of The Nutcracker.
This role is especially important to Clara, because now that she's in her late 20s, it may be her last chance to be scouted to a premier ballet company in New York City. Which has always been her dream, right?
In fact, her Dad has pulled some strings, and confirmed scouts will be in the audience on their opening night performance, set for Christmas Eve.
Disaster strikes when Clara's partner, the man to play the Cavalier, who will pair her in the iconic art of the Grand Pas de Deux, suffers and injury and will be unable to perform.
With under a month to go until the Christmas Eve performance, pickings are slim for someone with the classical training to perform the role. Thus, they must think outside the box.
Enter stage left, Trevor Williams, a tattooed, recovering addict, from the County Arts Program that share a building with Clara's company. He has motivations of his own that lead him to agree to take on the role.
The pairing should be doomed for failure, but their forced proximity leads to a lot of alone time, late night rehearsals and feelings neither one of them expected.
Even with their chemistry bubbling over and their new-found trust, will the two be able to pull off the most important performance of their lives?
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a delightful and delicious Holiday Romance debut. I had so much fun with this book. I read it so quickly. I couldn't put it down and stayed up way past my bedtime to see it through.
I laughed out loud. I kicked my feet, squeeled and swooned. I may also have shed a tear, or two, I won't lie about that. Clara and Trevor now live rent free in my brain.
This is essentially the movie Step Up for Romance-reading adults, which is something I never knew I needed, but now can't believe I lived without.
I love the MC, Clara. We get the entire story from her perspective, which was refreshing, and I really vibed with her sense of humor and just the way she relayed to the Reader all that was happening.
She's actually quite a complex character, and I liked unpacking with her a lot of the insecurities she had been holding so close to her heart for almost her entire life.
As someone who great up in dance, though my sister was the ballerina, I am always drawn to stories that incorporate dancers in some way. There's so much of it here too. It's not just this character is a dancer. We actually get to see the behind the scenes of her corps.
We see rehearsals and all the drama that goes into the days leading up to a performance. There was so much pressure on Clara to be perfect. She was seen as the leader, and though she took that seriously, it was overwhelming.
I loved how Astraus displayed the building of this partnership between Clara and Trevor. In a dance partnership like this, you aren't necessarily picking your partner. It may not even be someone you know well, as was the case here, which means a lot of hard work connecting.
You're often cast in a role, and whoever is cast in the role opposite you is who you'll have to work with and bond with to an incredible level. They have to build up a deep sense of trust within the partnership. Particularly, if complex lifts, etc., are incorporated into a routine.
I feel like Astraus did a great job of building up that trust between the two MCs. It felt like a real working relationship. Even though in a fictional setting, with a TON of chemistry and some off the charts steam, it still felt true to life.
Astraus also delivered so well on the tension between the two of them. I was living for their back-and-forths. As well-developed as Clara was as a character, I feel like Trevor was equally well done.
I became so invested in the both of them and just loved going along for the ride of their partnership, both inside and outside of the studio. As I mentioned above, I don't read a ton of Romance, but for me, this is one I am going to champion for a long time to come. I loved it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for Romance to make you swoon this Holiday Season!
I'm looking forward to more from Megan Astraus!!!
💕💚💕💚💕💚💕💚💕💚💕
Let's start this review out with a confession, shall we. As some of you may be aware, I'm not a big Romance Reader. I do read some, but I'm by no means well versed in the genre. For those unaware, I'm a Horror and Dark Fiction girlie, so this would seem way outside my comfort zone.
In fact, as far as Holiday Romances go, I had never read one before. I started my journey in Holiday Romances on December 8th of this year, when I decided to participate in a Holiday Romance Readathon. I committed and threw myself in all the way; as I do.
Prior to the Readathon, I checked out a bunch of books from my library, bought a few paperbacks and checked out what Netgalley had to offer.
Upon seeing this cover, that I have since learned the author, Megan Astraus, designed herself, I knew I had to have it. The ballerina, the snowglobe, the cracked glass, the PINK!
As if the cover alone wasn't enough to sell me though, then I read the synopsis.
This story follows Clara Winters, the adopted daughter of a ballet icon, who is now an up-and-coming ballet dancer in her own right, who has just secured the Sugar Plum Fairy lead in her studio's production of The Nutcracker.
This role is especially important to Clara, because now that she's in her late 20s, it may be her last chance to be scouted to a premier ballet company in New York City. Which has always been her dream, right?
In fact, her Dad has pulled some strings, and confirmed scouts will be in the audience on their opening night performance, set for Christmas Eve.
Disaster strikes when Clara's partner, the man to play the Cavalier, who will pair her in the iconic art of the Grand Pas de Deux, suffers and injury and will be unable to perform.
With under a month to go until the Christmas Eve performance, pickings are slim for someone with the classical training to perform the role. Thus, they must think outside the box.
Enter stage left, Trevor Williams, a tattooed, recovering addict, from the County Arts Program that share a building with Clara's company. He has motivations of his own that lead him to agree to take on the role.
The pairing should be doomed for failure, but their forced proximity leads to a lot of alone time, late night rehearsals and feelings neither one of them expected.
Even with their chemistry bubbling over and their new-found trust, will the two be able to pull off the most important performance of their lives?
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a delightful and delicious Holiday Romance debut. I had so much fun with this book. I read it so quickly. I couldn't put it down and stayed up way past my bedtime to see it through.
I laughed out loud. I kicked my feet, squeeled and swooned. I may also have shed a tear, or two, I won't lie about that. Clara and Trevor now live rent free in my brain.
This is essentially the movie Step Up for Romance-reading adults, which is something I never knew I needed, but now can't believe I lived without.
I love the MC, Clara. We get the entire story from her perspective, which was refreshing, and I really vibed with her sense of humor and just the way she relayed to the Reader all that was happening.
She's actually quite a complex character, and I liked unpacking with her a lot of the insecurities she had been holding so close to her heart for almost her entire life.
As someone who great up in dance, though my sister was the ballerina, I am always drawn to stories that incorporate dancers in some way. There's so much of it here too. It's not just this character is a dancer. We actually get to see the behind the scenes of her corps.
We see rehearsals and all the drama that goes into the days leading up to a performance. There was so much pressure on Clara to be perfect. She was seen as the leader, and though she took that seriously, it was overwhelming.
I loved how Astraus displayed the building of this partnership between Clara and Trevor. In a dance partnership like this, you aren't necessarily picking your partner. It may not even be someone you know well, as was the case here, which means a lot of hard work connecting.
You're often cast in a role, and whoever is cast in the role opposite you is who you'll have to work with and bond with to an incredible level. They have to build up a deep sense of trust within the partnership. Particularly, if complex lifts, etc., are incorporated into a routine.
I feel like Astraus did a great job of building up that trust between the two MCs. It felt like a real working relationship. Even though in a fictional setting, with a TON of chemistry and some off the charts steam, it still felt true to life.
Astraus also delivered so well on the tension between the two of them. I was living for their back-and-forths. As well-developed as Clara was as a character, I feel like Trevor was equally well done.
I became so invested in the both of them and just loved going along for the ride of their partnership, both inside and outside of the studio. As I mentioned above, I don't read a ton of Romance, but for me, this is one I am going to champion for a long time to come. I loved it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for Romance to make you swoon this Holiday Season!
I'm looking forward to more from Megan Astraus!!!
December 14, 2025
Thank you to the Publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I wasn’t expecting this book to make me cry but there’s a part near the end that made me bawl my eyes out, Clara’s Papi was a truly special man. I really enjoyed reading this book as it was magical and beautifully written, it had from enemies to lovers, love, the magic of friends, family and found family. Clara is chaotic, messy and disorganised, I can relate to the multiple alarms which go ignored, I have Bipolar disorder so my brain is just as chaotic as Clara’s so I found her really relatable. We both have hidden washing up, hers in the oven and mine in a tub hidden in the bathroom cupboard. My heart broke her that she felt she had to force herself into being a porcelain princess in order to feel validated and loved, I was hoping that she’d come to realise she was good enough and didn’t have to pigeon hole herself into a box where she didn’t fit. I really liked Trevor, he was 3 years sober and trying to stay that way, both he and Clara needed to realise it was okay to stay out of their comfort zones and actually live and discover that they were perfect for each other. The sparks fly between these two from the very beginning, but what I loved most about this book is that our couple are beautifully flawed, that made they feel even more relatable. Overall a highly enjoyed and solid book, highly recommended.
I wasn’t expecting this book to make me cry but there’s a part near the end that made me bawl my eyes out, Clara’s Papi was a truly special man. I really enjoyed reading this book as it was magical and beautifully written, it had from enemies to lovers, love, the magic of friends, family and found family. Clara is chaotic, messy and disorganised, I can relate to the multiple alarms which go ignored, I have Bipolar disorder so my brain is just as chaotic as Clara’s so I found her really relatable. We both have hidden washing up, hers in the oven and mine in a tub hidden in the bathroom cupboard. My heart broke her that she felt she had to force herself into being a porcelain princess in order to feel validated and loved, I was hoping that she’d come to realise she was good enough and didn’t have to pigeon hole herself into a box where she didn’t fit. I really liked Trevor, he was 3 years sober and trying to stay that way, both he and Clara needed to realise it was okay to stay out of their comfort zones and actually live and discover that they were perfect for each other. The sparks fly between these two from the very beginning, but what I loved most about this book is that our couple are beautifully flawed, that made they feel even more relatable. Overall a highly enjoyed and solid book, highly recommended.
January 16, 2026
The Sugar Plum Rebellion was a very good read.
I felt so many different emotions throughout the book and now days later I'm still feeling warm inside thinking about these characters and their story.
Clara Winters is a ballerina, this Christmas she has the lead role in The Nutcracker ballet, unfortunately her partner can't take part to the performance anymore. She needs a replacement right away, little does she know that her only option is Trevor Williams, a modern dancer and a recovering addict. Will they turn this unexpected event in something beautiful? Or will they fail miserably?
Clara is not perfect as she likes to show, she has flaws and traumas, and Trevor see her true beauty at first sight. I liked to follow these two characters' journey, it was unexpectedly moving and lovely.
Megan Astraus did an excellent work bringing these two worlds together with her nice, flowing writing. She succeded giving Clara and Trevor a compelling and believable story, and even if it is at times hard, it never gets too much.
I absolutely recommend to read this novel if you like the ballet and everything The Nutcracker like me, and you also enjoy some variations.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
December 5, 2025
Someone call Channing Tatum and see if he is ok from being dethroned by Trevor Williams as the best bad boy dancer.
This book was seriously so addicting. I loved hot mess Clara and mysterious Trevor. Their dynamic was so fun to watch from the beginning with Clara trying so hard to one up him while internally knowing she looked silly but being too stubborn to admit it. You could feel her annoyance with him that slowly grew into to outcome we saw.
Watching Clara’s character development was a trip. Her projection of perfection with her overworking brain was such a good example of what every person had felt at one time. It was so relatable and honest to any female experience. Add a high stakes make or break career moment to it and the tension was so tangible.
No spoiler, but chapter 22 broke me. I cried like a baby while somehow smiling through it. Such an amazing moment.
This was an amazing novel, especially it being a debut novel. It had every element that makes a Christmas romance (or any romance story) perfection: hate, love, snow storms, hot chocolate, and just enough spice to warm you up.
I can’t wait to see what Megan writes next.
This book was seriously so addicting. I loved hot mess Clara and mysterious Trevor. Their dynamic was so fun to watch from the beginning with Clara trying so hard to one up him while internally knowing she looked silly but being too stubborn to admit it. You could feel her annoyance with him that slowly grew into to outcome we saw.
Watching Clara’s character development was a trip. Her projection of perfection with her overworking brain was such a good example of what every person had felt at one time. It was so relatable and honest to any female experience. Add a high stakes make or break career moment to it and the tension was so tangible.
No spoiler, but chapter 22 broke me. I cried like a baby while somehow smiling through it. Such an amazing moment.
This was an amazing novel, especially it being a debut novel. It had every element that makes a Christmas romance (or any romance story) perfection: hate, love, snow storms, hot chocolate, and just enough spice to warm you up.
I can’t wait to see what Megan writes next.
December 11, 2025
Hallmark-esque Christmas vibes meets Step Up? Consider me hooked. This book was everything. Clara is messy perfection and so relatable to pretty much every woman trying to find her place in the world. Trevor is downright swoon worthy but not without his own set of problems and baggage. Amazing writing with witty humor, and god dammit…
i cried like a freaking baby. I’m talking heart wrenching sobs. She got me good.
Looking forward to more work from this author! A beautiful holiday read
i cried like a freaking baby. I’m talking heart wrenching sobs. She got me good.
Looking forward to more work from this author! A beautiful holiday read
December 30, 2025
“… that the broken things are the best ones to love”
I am very grateful to have gotten an e-copy of this book from NetGalley - even if not in advance - as it released early December of this year. This is an opposites attract, Step Up dancing vibes with a lot of heart. This book does delve into addiction and mental health issues.
Clara is the “porcelain princess”, the perfect ballerina her father’s always wanted her to be, or so she’s trying to be. Secretly, she’s a hot mess. But with her final (and last) big chance to get into a ballet academy in New York coming up - she’s ready to fake it til she makes it. Playing the lead dancer in the Nutcracker, she’s ready to shine. Until her dance partner is injured - and the only option to replace him is the tattooed, rough around the edges Trevor - from a rival dance studio. With no other option, the two need to work together - for Clara’s big chance and to keep funding for Trevor’s studio. Even as their animosity turns to attraction, their differences keep pulling them apart - but dance brings them back together. Showing Clara a new way, a new perspective. And just how far the porcelain princess crack before she shatters.
I am very grateful to have gotten an e-copy of this book from NetGalley - even if not in advance - as it released early December of this year. This is an opposites attract, Step Up dancing vibes with a lot of heart. This book does delve into addiction and mental health issues.
Clara is the “porcelain princess”, the perfect ballerina her father’s always wanted her to be, or so she’s trying to be. Secretly, she’s a hot mess. But with her final (and last) big chance to get into a ballet academy in New York coming up - she’s ready to fake it til she makes it. Playing the lead dancer in the Nutcracker, she’s ready to shine. Until her dance partner is injured - and the only option to replace him is the tattooed, rough around the edges Trevor - from a rival dance studio. With no other option, the two need to work together - for Clara’s big chance and to keep funding for Trevor’s studio. Even as their animosity turns to attraction, their differences keep pulling them apart - but dance brings them back together. Showing Clara a new way, a new perspective. And just how far the porcelain princess crack before she shatters.
January 23, 2026
Bookish Thoughts
I went into this one really wanting to love it, but unfortunately it wasn’t the right fit for me. I struggled with the story and ultimately ended up DNFing around the 80% mark. I kept hoping it would click, but it just didn't.
⭐ Final Score: 2.75 stars
📅 Pub Date: December 3, 2025
📝 Thank you to author and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
I went into this one really wanting to love it, but unfortunately it wasn’t the right fit for me. I struggled with the story and ultimately ended up DNFing around the 80% mark. I kept hoping it would click, but it just didn't.
⭐ Final Score: 2.75 stars
📅 Pub Date: December 3, 2025
📝 Thank you to author and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 18, 2026
I didn’t expect this book to make me cry… but it did. Clara’s Papi was a truly special man, and that part will stay with me for a long time.
The story turned out to be magical and beautifully written -we get enemies to lovers, romance, and a strong emphasis on the importance of friendship, family, and found family. Clara is chaotic, messy, and completely disorganised, even though she tries so hard to be a “porcelain princess.”
What hurt me the most was watching Clara feel the need to fit herself into that role in order to deserve love and validation. Throughout the story, I kept hoping she would realise that she was already enough just as she is.
I really liked Trevor as well. He’s been sober for three years and is doing everything he can to stay that way. Both he and Clara had to learn that stepping outside their comfort zones is the only way to truly live - and to see how perfectly they fit together.
The sparks fly between them from the very beginning, but what I loved most was that they are beautifully flawed characters. That made their story feel even more real and relatable.
Overall, this was a touching and engaging read that I highly recommend - it pulled me in from the very first pages 🤍📖
I would like to thank the author Megan Astraus and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story turned out to be magical and beautifully written -we get enemies to lovers, romance, and a strong emphasis on the importance of friendship, family, and found family. Clara is chaotic, messy, and completely disorganised, even though she tries so hard to be a “porcelain princess.”
What hurt me the most was watching Clara feel the need to fit herself into that role in order to deserve love and validation. Throughout the story, I kept hoping she would realise that she was already enough just as she is.
I really liked Trevor as well. He’s been sober for three years and is doing everything he can to stay that way. Both he and Clara had to learn that stepping outside their comfort zones is the only way to truly live - and to see how perfectly they fit together.
The sparks fly between them from the very beginning, but what I loved most was that they are beautifully flawed characters. That made their story feel even more real and relatable.
Overall, this was a touching and engaging read that I highly recommend - it pulled me in from the very first pages 🤍📖
I would like to thank the author Megan Astraus and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 31, 2025
I mean 🥵😮💨 The characters, the plot, the emotions. This book has everything! What a good book to end 2025 on. (Also, did I mention 🥵🥵🔥??)
December 5, 2025
The sweetest enemies to lovers/christmas/step-up vibes and it was just what I needed. I laughed, I cried and the romance was just perfect. A absolutely amazing debut novel. I can’t wait to see what else she can do! 🤍🥹 do yourself a favor and read this.
******* lil spoiler maybe *******
I couldn’t help but picture the MMC as a dancing Cassian sans wings 😆
******* lil spoiler maybe *******
I couldn’t help but picture the MMC as a dancing Cassian sans wings 😆
December 13, 2025
The Sugar Plum Rebellion was such a great read and I never would have guessed it was a debut novel. The build up of the enemies to lovers throughout the book was well executed. Clara's character development as she works through her constant strive for perfectionism and living up to the expectations of those around her was extremely relatable.
This book was a perfect Christmas romance read with some tension, witty banter, complete opposites attract, and spice. Both characters are working through different issues, but find each other as that balance needed in their lives.
I will absolutely be looking for future books by Megan.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This book was a perfect Christmas romance read with some tension, witty banter, complete opposites attract, and spice. Both characters are working through different issues, but find each other as that balance needed in their lives.
I will absolutely be looking for future books by Megan.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
December 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. Enemies to lovers, dance theme and the nutcracker?!? What could go wrong? This book had a good mix of humor and heart. I enjoyed how the story played out and of course all the dancing. It reminded me a lot of the movie step up. I enjoyed the Christmas tie ins as well. It could have used an epilogue to give us a glimpse into the future but all in all it was wrapped up quite well.
December 12, 2025
*Arc review*
Wasnt prepared to love this as much as I did! I am a big fan of the Jcrew and would to see more of them in another book. While the book looks cutesy and fun its actually covering some pretty heavy topics and doing a good job of it. The only thing I would have loved to see more of was the FMC and MC family and more so that less so the ballet terms. But I still really enjoyed it! Thanks so much for the arc!
Wasnt prepared to love this as much as I did! I am a big fan of the Jcrew and would to see more of them in another book. While the book looks cutesy and fun its actually covering some pretty heavy topics and doing a good job of it. The only thing I would have loved to see more of was the FMC and MC family and more so that less so the ballet terms. But I still really enjoyed it! Thanks so much for the arc!
December 13, 2025
I loved this book so much! I’ve never felt more seen by an MC before.
I laughed, I cried…a lot!
It was heart warming and a perfect read for the holidays. I highly recommend this book!
I laughed, I cried…a lot!
It was heart warming and a perfect read for the holidays. I highly recommend this book!
January 12, 2026
The Sugar Plum Rebellion was a delightful and surprisingly heartfelt debut that blends the love of Christmas themed books with emotional depth in a way that feels both comforting and meaningful. As someone who has always adored The Nutcracker, I absolutely loved the nods to the classical ballet and the want of maintaining the traditional integrity of the Russian ballet while making it modern and relatable.
What truly stood out to me, though, was the way this book explored internal struggle- particularly the quiet, exhausting battle of addition recovery and the pressure to be perfect for others while neglecting yourself. That emotional thread was handled with such care and authenticity. It's easy to miss how heavy and isolating that burden can be.
Although this is a lighthearted, cozy, enemies to lovers like, holiday -themed debut, the messaging carries real weight. Themes of self-worth, healing, and learning to choose yourself were thoughtfully layered into the story without ever feeling preachy or overwhelming. Instead, they were delivered in a warm, tasteful way that fit perfectly with the festive tone and whimsical setting.
The result is a story that feels uplifting and provides hope to readers while honoring the reality of professional sports and emotional struggles- a rare and impressive balance, especially for a debut. It's the kind of book you can curl up with and enjoy the magic while considering the deeper message even after the last page.
Thank you Megan Astraus for writing this amazing novel and NetGalley for the ARC. This book has been one of my Arcs I have received. It was charming, thoughtful, and I am excited to see what comes next for this author does next.
What truly stood out to me, though, was the way this book explored internal struggle- particularly the quiet, exhausting battle of addition recovery and the pressure to be perfect for others while neglecting yourself. That emotional thread was handled with such care and authenticity. It's easy to miss how heavy and isolating that burden can be.
Although this is a lighthearted, cozy, enemies to lovers like, holiday -themed debut, the messaging carries real weight. Themes of self-worth, healing, and learning to choose yourself were thoughtfully layered into the story without ever feeling preachy or overwhelming. Instead, they were delivered in a warm, tasteful way that fit perfectly with the festive tone and whimsical setting.
The result is a story that feels uplifting and provides hope to readers while honoring the reality of professional sports and emotional struggles- a rare and impressive balance, especially for a debut. It's the kind of book you can curl up with and enjoy the magic while considering the deeper message even after the last page.
Thank you Megan Astraus for writing this amazing novel and NetGalley for the ARC. This book has been one of my Arcs I have received. It was charming, thoughtful, and I am excited to see what comes next for this author does next.
December 14, 2025
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC of The Sugar Plum Rebellion by Megan Astraus.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a story about romance and finding yourself. This is the first romance in a while I’ve rated a true 5/5 stars, and it deserves all of its praise.
Clara is a messy character, and I adore her for it. Having ADHD myself, she is such a relatable character in a way that I find that characters aren’t allowed to be. She constantly is doing the wrong thing right until the end, but you understand so well why she feels she has to keep dancing through her pain.
The love interest, Trevor, is a character I adored the whole time. He was an asshole in the beginning, but that’s expected with Enemies to Lovers. His story of recovery was well fleshed out and you were rooting for him every step of the way.
I will say that the enemies part was quite forced. They always loved each other, and were especially horny. It’s hard to pull off true enemies in contemporary however.
Overall, this was a quick and beautiful read. The dance scenes were well crafted. The romance was too, and I couldn’t put my phone down until I finished the novel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a story about romance and finding yourself. This is the first romance in a while I’ve rated a true 5/5 stars, and it deserves all of its praise.
Clara is a messy character, and I adore her for it. Having ADHD myself, she is such a relatable character in a way that I find that characters aren’t allowed to be. She constantly is doing the wrong thing right until the end, but you understand so well why she feels she has to keep dancing through her pain.
The love interest, Trevor, is a character I adored the whole time. He was an asshole in the beginning, but that’s expected with Enemies to Lovers. His story of recovery was well fleshed out and you were rooting for him every step of the way.
I will say that the enemies part was quite forced. They always loved each other, and were especially horny. It’s hard to pull off true enemies in contemporary however.
Overall, this was a quick and beautiful read. The dance scenes were well crafted. The romance was too, and I couldn’t put my phone down until I finished the novel.
December 15, 2025
This is a beautiful love note to addiction recovery in multiple forms.
I devoured this book in one sitting, there felt like no lulls where I could take a break, I genuinely couldn’t stop reading.
The thing I loved most about this book was the way Trevor always, always, had Clara’s best interests at heart, even when he may have come across as controlling or dismissing because he refused to put additional pressure on Clara and increase injury; it was always because he wanted to protect her and prevent her from harm, especially knowing the impact a prolonged injury can have and the dangers of addiction as a result.
I’d love to see more books from the side characters so we can get more glimpses of Trevor and Clara in future books - I’d buy them in a heartbreat!
I devoured this book in one sitting, there felt like no lulls where I could take a break, I genuinely couldn’t stop reading.
The thing I loved most about this book was the way Trevor always, always, had Clara’s best interests at heart, even when he may have come across as controlling or dismissing because he refused to put additional pressure on Clara and increase injury; it was always because he wanted to protect her and prevent her from harm, especially knowing the impact a prolonged injury can have and the dangers of addiction as a result.
I’d love to see more books from the side characters so we can get more glimpses of Trevor and Clara in future books - I’d buy them in a heartbreat!
December 20, 2025
Rating: 5 stars / Spice: 3/5
This is such a lovely and touching story, full of love, passion, healing, and a little bit of fate. Both main characters are dancers, who are reluctantly teamed up for a Christmas performance of The Nutcracker. While there are a lot of descriptive dance references that flew over my head, the chemistry between the MCs while they are dancing is incredible! The slow burn tension and forced proximity builds to such a satisfying and emotional conclusion, with an especially heart-wrenching twist of fate along the way. I found the characters to be realistic and relatable - especially Clara's struggles with the chaos that comes with being a woman with ADHD.
What to expect: - Rival Dancers - Reluctant Partners - Forced Proximity - Opposites - Nutcracker Ballet - ADHD Rep - Addiction Recovery Rep - Personal Growth & Self Worth
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is such a lovely and touching story, full of love, passion, healing, and a little bit of fate. Both main characters are dancers, who are reluctantly teamed up for a Christmas performance of The Nutcracker. While there are a lot of descriptive dance references that flew over my head, the chemistry between the MCs while they are dancing is incredible! The slow burn tension and forced proximity builds to such a satisfying and emotional conclusion, with an especially heart-wrenching twist of fate along the way. I found the characters to be realistic and relatable - especially Clara's struggles with the chaos that comes with being a woman with ADHD.
What to expect: - Rival Dancers - Reluctant Partners - Forced Proximity - Opposites - Nutcracker Ballet - ADHD Rep - Addiction Recovery Rep - Personal Growth & Self Worth
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 23, 2025
A modern Christmas love story! If you grew up watching or performing in the Nutcracker you will enjoy this book! Clara and Trevor fall in love as they learn more about themselves and grow along the way. An inspirational story as we read about Trevor’s recovery from addiction. I laughed at Clara’s ADHD tendencies and related to her very much. A great quick Christmas romance! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this book early!
December 14, 2025
I was not expecting to cry at all, but absolutely loved this story
December 17, 2025
The Sugar Plum Rebellion by Megan Astraus is the festive read I did not know I was looking for. With Step Up vibes and characters I fell in love with while reading about them falling for each other I was shocked to see that this was a debut, there was a maturity and assuredness to the writing that really made me feel like I was in very capable hands indeed.
Clara has finally landed the role she has always longed for, the Sugarplum Fairy in her ballet company's big Christmas show, and because her father, a former professional dancer, has pulled some strings there will be scouts there to see her perform. At last her career is on track and her years of dedicating herself to being the perfect Porcelain Princess are paying off. Until fate throws a huge spanner in the works and her partner is injured making him unable to perform. The only possible replacement is Trevor, a tattooed recovering addict who runs the dance classes at the county arts programme in the studio next door. Without classical training partnering Clara in a pas de deux is a big ask and she fears that she is about to lose her shot but even worse that, that she will disappoint her father, the man who chose her from an orphanage because she had ballet in her blood. Can these opposites work together to create a performance that no one will forget, or will their differences be too much for them to handle? As reluctant rehearsals turn into comforting confessionals the heat between the two practically sizzles from the page.
This is a wonderful enemies to lovers romance but it is also so much more. Our wonderfully flawed characters feel very real and so I found myself rooting for them very quickly, wanting them to succeed against the odds. Topics like addiction and grief were sensitively handled and well integrated into the story, as was Clara's ADHD and the many ways she tried to stay on top of it. Despite the events of the story taking place over the course of a single month, the natural progression and development of the relationship between Clara and Trevor, both professional and personal, felt natural and believable, and I felt like I really got to know them as characters. Another thing that really resonated with me while reading was the heartbreak of not living up to expectations and the fear of disappointing those who love us, and I think that the author did an incredible job of showing how those fears can really trap us.
This wonderful book is one that I will revisit when I need a little mood boost, and I look forward to seeing what the talented Megan Astraus does next.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
Clara has finally landed the role she has always longed for, the Sugarplum Fairy in her ballet company's big Christmas show, and because her father, a former professional dancer, has pulled some strings there will be scouts there to see her perform. At last her career is on track and her years of dedicating herself to being the perfect Porcelain Princess are paying off. Until fate throws a huge spanner in the works and her partner is injured making him unable to perform. The only possible replacement is Trevor, a tattooed recovering addict who runs the dance classes at the county arts programme in the studio next door. Without classical training partnering Clara in a pas de deux is a big ask and she fears that she is about to lose her shot but even worse that, that she will disappoint her father, the man who chose her from an orphanage because she had ballet in her blood. Can these opposites work together to create a performance that no one will forget, or will their differences be too much for them to handle? As reluctant rehearsals turn into comforting confessionals the heat between the two practically sizzles from the page.
This is a wonderful enemies to lovers romance but it is also so much more. Our wonderfully flawed characters feel very real and so I found myself rooting for them very quickly, wanting them to succeed against the odds. Topics like addiction and grief were sensitively handled and well integrated into the story, as was Clara's ADHD and the many ways she tried to stay on top of it. Despite the events of the story taking place over the course of a single month, the natural progression and development of the relationship between Clara and Trevor, both professional and personal, felt natural and believable, and I felt like I really got to know them as characters. Another thing that really resonated with me while reading was the heartbreak of not living up to expectations and the fear of disappointing those who love us, and I think that the author did an incredible job of showing how those fears can really trap us.
This wonderful book is one that I will revisit when I need a little mood boost, and I look forward to seeing what the talented Megan Astraus does next.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
February 13, 2026
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is far more than a festive ballet romance. What initially feels like a glittering, holiday stage setting quickly unfolds into an emotional, character driven story about identity, pressure, healing, and learning to take up space exactly as you are.
What makes this novel shine is its heart. Beneath the twinkle lights and rehearsal rooms is a deeply personal exploration of perfectionism, neurodivergence, addiction recovery, and the complicated desire to feel worthy of love. The emotional arcs feel intentional and thoughtful rather than dramatic for the sake of drama. There is a rawness to the struggles portrayed, but they are balanced with warmth, humor, and genuine hope.
The romance delivers on tension and chemistry. The banter is sharp, the dynamic evolves gradually, and the connection feels earned. Rather than an instant shift from friction to love, the relationship builds in layers, shaped by vulnerability and mutual growth. Both leads are beautifully flawed, and that imperfection is exactly what makes their story compelling.
The ballet backdrop adds texture and atmosphere without becoming overwhelming. Even readers unfamiliar with dance can easily immerse themselves in the movement, discipline, and artistry. The setting enhances the emotional stakes, highlighting themes of legacy, expectation, and self expression.
This book also deserves credit for its representation. The neurodivergent perspective feels honest and relatable, and the depiction of sobriety and recovery is handled with care. The exploration of family, found family, and belonging adds another emotional dimension that lingers long after finishing.
If there is a minor drawback, it is that the tone may not be as purely lighthearted as the title suggests. While it carries holiday charm, the story dives into deeper emotional territory than a typical cozy seasonal romance. For many readers, however, that depth will be exactly what elevates it.
Overall, The Sugar Plum Rebellion is heartfelt, romantic, and emotionally resonant. It blends festive sparkle with meaningful character growth, creating a story that feels both comforting and powerful. A strong and memorable read for fans of dance centered romance and emotionally layered love stories.
What makes this novel shine is its heart. Beneath the twinkle lights and rehearsal rooms is a deeply personal exploration of perfectionism, neurodivergence, addiction recovery, and the complicated desire to feel worthy of love. The emotional arcs feel intentional and thoughtful rather than dramatic for the sake of drama. There is a rawness to the struggles portrayed, but they are balanced with warmth, humor, and genuine hope.
The romance delivers on tension and chemistry. The banter is sharp, the dynamic evolves gradually, and the connection feels earned. Rather than an instant shift from friction to love, the relationship builds in layers, shaped by vulnerability and mutual growth. Both leads are beautifully flawed, and that imperfection is exactly what makes their story compelling.
The ballet backdrop adds texture and atmosphere without becoming overwhelming. Even readers unfamiliar with dance can easily immerse themselves in the movement, discipline, and artistry. The setting enhances the emotional stakes, highlighting themes of legacy, expectation, and self expression.
This book also deserves credit for its representation. The neurodivergent perspective feels honest and relatable, and the depiction of sobriety and recovery is handled with care. The exploration of family, found family, and belonging adds another emotional dimension that lingers long after finishing.
If there is a minor drawback, it is that the tone may not be as purely lighthearted as the title suggests. While it carries holiday charm, the story dives into deeper emotional territory than a typical cozy seasonal romance. For many readers, however, that depth will be exactly what elevates it.
Overall, The Sugar Plum Rebellion is heartfelt, romantic, and emotionally resonant. It blends festive sparkle with meaningful character growth, creating a story that feels both comforting and powerful. A strong and memorable read for fans of dance centered romance and emotionally layered love stories.
January 10, 2026
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a joyful, emotionally grounded holiday romance that manages to be both cozy and deeply resonant. Megan Astraus delivers a debut that sparkles with wit, warmth, and heart, while also taking its characters’ struggles seriously.
Clara Winters is a beautifully realized heroine. She is driven, anxious, and quietly exhausted from holding herself to impossible standards. Her experience as a neurodivergent woman in an elite ballet world obsessed with perfection feels honest and compassionate, never reduced to a quirk or trope. Watching her wrestle with legacy, self-worth, and the fear of being “too much” or “not enough” is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Trevor, meanwhile, is a standout love interest. A recovering addict with rough edges and unexpected tenderness, he brings depth and care to the story in a way that feels earned rather than idealized. His commitment to sobriety, boundaries, and healing is portrayed as strength, not baggage. The chemistry between Clara and Trevor is incredible, from sharp, hilarious banter to slow-burn tension that simmers beautifully through late-night rehearsals and vulnerable conversations.
The dance elements are vivid and accessible, even for readers with little ballet background. Astraus makes movement feel intimate and electric, using dance as both conflict and connection. The contrast between classical discipline and freer expression becomes a powerful metaphor for the characters themselves: perfection versus authenticity, control versus trust.
Wrapped in festive charm—snowstorms, Christmas Eve nerves, found family, and backstage magic—this book still never loses its emotional weight. It tackles ADHD, addiction recovery, injury, and self-acceptance with care, humor, and grace, making the happily ever after feel genuinely hard-won.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a heartfelt reminder that you don’t have to be flawless to be worthy, and that sometimes rebellion looks like choosing truth over porcelain perfection. A charming, meaningful holiday romance and an impressive debut I’ll happily revisit.
Clara Winters is a beautifully realized heroine. She is driven, anxious, and quietly exhausted from holding herself to impossible standards. Her experience as a neurodivergent woman in an elite ballet world obsessed with perfection feels honest and compassionate, never reduced to a quirk or trope. Watching her wrestle with legacy, self-worth, and the fear of being “too much” or “not enough” is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Trevor, meanwhile, is a standout love interest. A recovering addict with rough edges and unexpected tenderness, he brings depth and care to the story in a way that feels earned rather than idealized. His commitment to sobriety, boundaries, and healing is portrayed as strength, not baggage. The chemistry between Clara and Trevor is incredible, from sharp, hilarious banter to slow-burn tension that simmers beautifully through late-night rehearsals and vulnerable conversations.
The dance elements are vivid and accessible, even for readers with little ballet background. Astraus makes movement feel intimate and electric, using dance as both conflict and connection. The contrast between classical discipline and freer expression becomes a powerful metaphor for the characters themselves: perfection versus authenticity, control versus trust.
Wrapped in festive charm—snowstorms, Christmas Eve nerves, found family, and backstage magic—this book still never loses its emotional weight. It tackles ADHD, addiction recovery, injury, and self-acceptance with care, humor, and grace, making the happily ever after feel genuinely hard-won.
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a heartfelt reminder that you don’t have to be flawless to be worthy, and that sometimes rebellion looks like choosing truth over porcelain perfection. A charming, meaningful holiday romance and an impressive debut I’ll happily revisit.
December 19, 2025
The Sugar Plum Rebellion by Megan Astraus is a compelling, emotionally rich romance that reveals that both dance and love are acts of trust. The story centers on rival dance groups, one rooted in classical tradition, the other more modern and progressive. As you may predict, Clara and Trevor come from opposite sides of this divide. Astraus cleverly reveals that real power comes from the merging of the two styles, where discipline meets freedom. Watching Clara and Trevor discover that blending their approaches creates something stronger is a beautiful metaphor for romance itself. Just as dancing together requires listening and adaptation, love asks Clara and Trevor to grow beyond what feels safe.
The powerful heart of the novel lies in its thoughtful portrayal of recovery and care. Trevor is an addict in recovery, and his earned expertise shapes the way he loves Clara. When Clara is suffering through a serious injury, it is Trevor who insists she prioritize her health, even when it means letting go of expectations. Recovery is presented as a strength, not a detriment, and if you love a bossy caretaker, you will fall hard for Trevor. His protective generosity carries through every delightful chapter of the book. In addition, the humor is sharp, the chemistry between Clara and Trevor is undeniable, and the plot is carefully constructed without ever feeling heavy. The dance scenes are active and dynamic, full of heat and intimacy; they read like enticing foreplay. (They also lead to an explosive scene involving a spicy barre exercise.) Holiday tropes such as a festive fair, hot cocoa, and a spectacular snowed-in scene make this a cozy read for those who love a Christmas romance. However, even while playing with familiar images and scenery, The Snowflake Rebellion feels fresh and new, making this a heartwarming and memorable debut from Megan Astraus. She is an author I will be following closely! I want to thank NetGalley and the author for the chance to read this truly delightful book!
The powerful heart of the novel lies in its thoughtful portrayal of recovery and care. Trevor is an addict in recovery, and his earned expertise shapes the way he loves Clara. When Clara is suffering through a serious injury, it is Trevor who insists she prioritize her health, even when it means letting go of expectations. Recovery is presented as a strength, not a detriment, and if you love a bossy caretaker, you will fall hard for Trevor. His protective generosity carries through every delightful chapter of the book. In addition, the humor is sharp, the chemistry between Clara and Trevor is undeniable, and the plot is carefully constructed without ever feeling heavy. The dance scenes are active and dynamic, full of heat and intimacy; they read like enticing foreplay. (They also lead to an explosive scene involving a spicy barre exercise.) Holiday tropes such as a festive fair, hot cocoa, and a spectacular snowed-in scene make this a cozy read for those who love a Christmas romance. However, even while playing with familiar images and scenery, The Snowflake Rebellion feels fresh and new, making this a heartwarming and memorable debut from Megan Astraus. She is an author I will be following closely! I want to thank NetGalley and the author for the chance to read this truly delightful book!
December 24, 2025
Clara Winters, The Porcelain Princess, is a proper ballerina with a secret. She lives in chaos due to her ADHD. She sets endless alarms but is always late. Her home is a mess. But ballet is her opportunity to succeed. Adopted at a young age by a ballet legend, her fathers long to see her as a principle dancer. When she finally gets to dance as the Sugar Plum Fairy, it's not just a performance; it's her final audition to be a legend... but when her Cavalier breaks his ankle, she must pair up with Trevor Williams, a recovering addict with no classical training, or lose everything. Can these enemies work together to create something beautiful?
For a debut novel, this book was filled with magic. As a former dancer, I felt all the feelings deep in my soul. Dance was my language when words wouldn't (or couldn't) come. When I danced, it felt like flying! As a fellow neuro-diverse dancer, I can attest that dance helped make the world make sense. It helped me to find my place in the world. Fortunately for me, I was exposed to multiple dance styles and was never trapped in one box.
I chose this book because it sounded like it would be a "grownup version" of Step Up, one of my favorite dance movies. It did not disappoint! While crying twice was not on my bingo card, this book did make me smile, giggle, and swoon! I've never felt so seen. So few books have a neuro-diverse narrator and the few I've found that do focus on boys. Clara was me. Her thoughts were my thoughts. Her relationship with her Papi reminded me of my relationship with my Papa. Although the story has ended, I hope Clara and Trevor's story continues... maybe with them opening a dance company of their own. This book is 100% a Read It! It was spectacular!
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
For a debut novel, this book was filled with magic. As a former dancer, I felt all the feelings deep in my soul. Dance was my language when words wouldn't (or couldn't) come. When I danced, it felt like flying! As a fellow neuro-diverse dancer, I can attest that dance helped make the world make sense. It helped me to find my place in the world. Fortunately for me, I was exposed to multiple dance styles and was never trapped in one box.
I chose this book because it sounded like it would be a "grownup version" of Step Up, one of my favorite dance movies. It did not disappoint! While crying twice was not on my bingo card, this book did make me smile, giggle, and swoon! I've never felt so seen. So few books have a neuro-diverse narrator and the few I've found that do focus on boys. Clara was me. Her thoughts were my thoughts. Her relationship with her Papi reminded me of my relationship with my Papa. Although the story has ended, I hope Clara and Trevor's story continues... maybe with them opening a dance company of their own. This book is 100% a Read It! It was spectacular!
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 3, 2026
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
First review of the year and this one is firmly 5 stars, if I could cry I would (blame the meds) - this book is like a hug, it is perfect. I don't confess to understand ADHD but I do understand anxiety, and seeing both reflected so honestly and openly makes my heart fuzzy.
This book was devoured in a matter of hours - I couldn't and wouldn't put it down. The identity crisis of being adopted? Chef's kiss execution - props to this author, she knew what she was doing and my god did she do it well.
I should've moved this further up my read list to read on christmas day because it is so heartwarming, heart string pulling and perfect. I cannot say a bad thing about this book, I just love it I truly do. Seeing Clara learn about herself and challenge her own preconceptions? Beautiful. Seeing Trevor 'Bear' learn to love and trust himself? Tear jerking.
Seeing Madame say she can't drive - hilarious. I flitted between laughter and near sobs reading this book. The commentary on the pressure to feel deserving of love? As an immigrant daughter, its something I know well but never see talked about in fiction. It is so powerful to see it talked about, and given the space it needs to be considered.
I NEED more, I NEED this author to publish more, there is no two ways about it. I LOVE everything Astraus was able to do with this book and I just, it's such a special read truly. And can we talk about the cover? I LOVE IT - it reflects the story so perfectly.
Anyways this is my new year obsession, I will be talking about it at every opportunity.
First review of the year and this one is firmly 5 stars, if I could cry I would (blame the meds) - this book is like a hug, it is perfect. I don't confess to understand ADHD but I do understand anxiety, and seeing both reflected so honestly and openly makes my heart fuzzy.
This book was devoured in a matter of hours - I couldn't and wouldn't put it down. The identity crisis of being adopted? Chef's kiss execution - props to this author, she knew what she was doing and my god did she do it well.
I should've moved this further up my read list to read on christmas day because it is so heartwarming, heart string pulling and perfect. I cannot say a bad thing about this book, I just love it I truly do. Seeing Clara learn about herself and challenge her own preconceptions? Beautiful. Seeing Trevor 'Bear' learn to love and trust himself? Tear jerking.
Seeing Madame say she can't drive - hilarious. I flitted between laughter and near sobs reading this book. The commentary on the pressure to feel deserving of love? As an immigrant daughter, its something I know well but never see talked about in fiction. It is so powerful to see it talked about, and given the space it needs to be considered.
I NEED more, I NEED this author to publish more, there is no two ways about it. I LOVE everything Astraus was able to do with this book and I just, it's such a special read truly. And can we talk about the cover? I LOVE IT - it reflects the story so perfectly.
Anyways this is my new year obsession, I will be talking about it at every opportunity.
December 24, 2025
I LOVE, LOVE LOVE holiday rom coms. This was my first book to read by Megan Astraus. The cover really caught my eye on NetGalley and the story line sounded a bit like one of my favorite movies, Step Up. The Sugar Plum Rebellion is an adorable story, that I really enjoyed. This book made me laugh out loud several times, especially as they fought over the parking space. This story is told through both Clara's point of view and and Trevor's point of view. Clara is desperately trying to earn the respect from her father, a former ballet legend by landing the main role of the Sugar Plum fairy, but when her leading man gets injured and she needs a replacement, with less than a month until showtime, the search is on. Her options are slim and she ends up being forced to ask her nemesis from the local arts program. Clara has placed so much pressure on herself, to make her father proud. As Clara and Trevor’s partnership evolves they begin to learn to trust each other and end up with some slow burn chemistry. The trust between them felt well real, making their relationship believable and showing the growth between them seem so real. I loved their banter and their back and forth reactions. If you love holiday romance, make sure you pick this one up! Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this story.
December 25, 2025
★★★★☆ Review: The Sugar Plum Rebellion
by The Sugar Plum Rebellion
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a delightful swirl of holiday sparkle and quiet defiance, the kind of story that tiptoes in with tinsel and leaves behind something a little sharper. Megan Astraus plays with festive expectations and then nudges them sideways, giving us a heroine who refuses to stay boxed in by tradition, even when the season insists she should.
The atmosphere is cozy and whimsical on the surface, but there’s an undercurrent of self-discovery and rebellion that keeps the story from feeling overly sweet. The characters feel grounded and relatable, especially as they navigate family pressure, identity, and the tug-of-war between obligation and desire. I loved how the author balanced humor and heart without letting either overpower the other.
That said, a few moments felt slightly rushed, and I found myself wanting a bit more depth in certain emotional beats. With a little more breathing room, the story could have hit even harder.
Overall, this was a charming, thoughtful holiday read with a rebellious streak that made it stand out. Perfect for readers who want their seasonal stories with warmth, wit, and just a dash of sugar-coated resistance ✨🎄
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
by The Sugar Plum Rebellion
The Sugar Plum Rebellion is a delightful swirl of holiday sparkle and quiet defiance, the kind of story that tiptoes in with tinsel and leaves behind something a little sharper. Megan Astraus plays with festive expectations and then nudges them sideways, giving us a heroine who refuses to stay boxed in by tradition, even when the season insists she should.
The atmosphere is cozy and whimsical on the surface, but there’s an undercurrent of self-discovery and rebellion that keeps the story from feeling overly sweet. The characters feel grounded and relatable, especially as they navigate family pressure, identity, and the tug-of-war between obligation and desire. I loved how the author balanced humor and heart without letting either overpower the other.
That said, a few moments felt slightly rushed, and I found myself wanting a bit more depth in certain emotional beats. With a little more breathing room, the story could have hit even harder.
Overall, this was a charming, thoughtful holiday read with a rebellious streak that made it stand out. Perfect for readers who want their seasonal stories with warmth, wit, and just a dash of sugar-coated resistance ✨🎄
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
December 17, 2025
The bad boy and the good girl is the theme in “The Sugar Plum Rebellion” by Megan Astraus. Clare Winter has finally reached the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Jasper Ballet Company production of the Nutcracker. The only problem is that the dancer that was to dance the Cavalier role has torn his Achilles tendon and will be out of commission for the next 3-4 months. Enter bad boy Trevor Williams, a quasi-classical dancer from the Jasper County Arts Program. The two groups share rehearsal and performance spaces. Clara and Trevor somehow need to blend their styles so that the show can go on.
I really liked the way Ms. Astraus portrayed the deep down emotions of both Clara and Trevor. Clara is trying to live up to her ballet family’s legacy of excellence. Trevor is on a journey to stay clean and sober. I also liked the way the two different dance troupes worked (and fought) to meld their styles and personnel. I think that this debut book is a success. Ballet and romance lovers will enjoy this book.
I wish to thank Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the complimentary eARC of this book and for selecting me to review it on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#TheSugarPlumRebellion
#VictoryEditingNetGalleyCo-op
#NetGalley
#Ballet
#EneniesToLovers
I really liked the way Ms. Astraus portrayed the deep down emotions of both Clara and Trevor. Clara is trying to live up to her ballet family’s legacy of excellence. Trevor is on a journey to stay clean and sober. I also liked the way the two different dance troupes worked (and fought) to meld their styles and personnel. I think that this debut book is a success. Ballet and romance lovers will enjoy this book.
I wish to thank Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the complimentary eARC of this book and for selecting me to review it on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#TheSugarPlumRebellion
#VictoryEditingNetGalleyCo-op
#NetGalley
#Ballet
#EneniesToLovers
January 24, 2026
4.5⭐️ Thank you Netgalley for the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I absolutely adored this fun and light/breezy romance novel! I was drawn by it due to the Nutcracker/ballet elements and it was moderately festive! I ended up reading it after Christmas and this really did not bother me at all - I wouldn’t say it’s overtly festive despite having some days at Christmas time and can be read at any winter time!
We follow our FMC Clara who has the role of a lifetime dancing the Sugarplum Fairy in the Nutcracker for her ballet company (a big principal role) and especially as some scouts for a bigger company in NYC are coming to watch her dance! Her dance partner becomes injured and the only person who is tall enough to dance with her is Trevor - a dancer from the contemporary company in their same building who’s got a bit of a tragic backstory!
I loved the chemistry and their romance developing - I loved the plot line with all the ballet and dancing so much! Reminded me of all my years as a dancer! I also loved the family dynamics with her and her dad and her grief of losing her father as well! She is also an adopted child and this was a nice piece of representation!
Overall I can’t wait to read when Megan Astraus brings out next!
I absolutely adored this fun and light/breezy romance novel! I was drawn by it due to the Nutcracker/ballet elements and it was moderately festive! I ended up reading it after Christmas and this really did not bother me at all - I wouldn’t say it’s overtly festive despite having some days at Christmas time and can be read at any winter time!
We follow our FMC Clara who has the role of a lifetime dancing the Sugarplum Fairy in the Nutcracker for her ballet company (a big principal role) and especially as some scouts for a bigger company in NYC are coming to watch her dance! Her dance partner becomes injured and the only person who is tall enough to dance with her is Trevor - a dancer from the contemporary company in their same building who’s got a bit of a tragic backstory!
I loved the chemistry and their romance developing - I loved the plot line with all the ballet and dancing so much! Reminded me of all my years as a dancer! I also loved the family dynamics with her and her dad and her grief of losing her father as well! She is also an adopted child and this was a nice piece of representation!
Overall I can’t wait to read when Megan Astraus brings out next!
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