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Symphony #2
Pas de Deux
Though she’s still struggling to put her personal life back together a year after leaving Los Angeles, Mallory Collingswood’s career is perfectly on track as she takes to the role of Leader of the London Symphony Orchestra like it’s her birthright. She’s determined to focus on her music and enjoy her second year back home when she’s approached about a collaboration with the Royal Ballet. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that only a fool would turn down...or accept, depending on the outcome. Taking on the role will mean working harder than she ever has in her life, and performing in a way she never has alongside the Royal Ballet’s brightest star. Individually, they are opposites in almost every way, but together they form a perfect pair, and for the first time in ages Mallory wonders what it would be like to love, and be loved, again.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2019
141 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Duncan
20 books445 followersMJ Duncan is a Southern California girl who traded in her surfboard for hockey skates when she moved to Minnesota. When not writing, MJ enjoys reading, climbing, swimming, and spending time with her family. You can also follow her on twitter (@mj_duncan) and tumblr (mjduncan).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
April 29, 2019
This is a follow up of “symphony in blue” and I must say I enjoyed the first book slightly more. This does not mean I didn’t enjoy this one, I actually really liked it but it was way too long for my taste!
I started off not liking the main character because in the previous book, I really wanted to throw her under a car hahahahaha.. surprisingly I started warming up to her, seeing things from her side, and obviously the other main character is adorable! So overall it was an enjoyable read .
My rating is a 3.5, but rounded up to 4.
P.s: I have a feeling there will be a 3rd spin off soon ..
I started off not liking the main character because in the previous book, I really wanted to throw her under a car hahahahaha.. surprisingly I started warming up to her, seeing things from her side, and obviously the other main character is adorable! So overall it was an enjoyable read .
My rating is a 3.5, but rounded up to 4.
P.s: I have a feeling there will be a 3rd spin off soon ..
April 25, 2019
Absolutely brilliant. I didn't like the predecessor to this book Symphony in Blue because of the cheating. In fact that book was the only one I've read by Duncan that wasn't a 5 star book (and I've read all of them). So knowing that this was Mallory's book, as she was the one being cheated on, I was a little hesitant.
I shouldn't have been.
This book was fantastic. The chemistry between the mains was it's own plot arc. It was *that* good. I can think of about 3 or 4 lesfic books about ballet also and this one is by far the best of the bunch. It's chock full of good feels and character growth. All the boxes were ticked for a highly satisfying read. I actually savored this over 4 days (work sucked but ending my day reading this made it better :) as it's a bit longer than your average novel. I really didn't want it to end. The MC's bosses Clara and Nina I'm wondering might get their own novel... but that's speculation. Guess we'll see :)
Highly recommended. 6 stars. Easy peasy.
I shouldn't have been.
This book was fantastic. The chemistry between the mains was it's own plot arc. It was *that* good. I can think of about 3 or 4 lesfic books about ballet also and this one is by far the best of the bunch. It's chock full of good feels and character growth. All the boxes were ticked for a highly satisfying read. I actually savored this over 4 days (work sucked but ending my day reading this made it better :) as it's a bit longer than your average novel. I really didn't want it to end. The MC's bosses Clara and Nina I'm wondering might get their own novel... but that's speculation. Guess we'll see :)
Highly recommended. 6 stars. Easy peasy.
June 6, 2019
Sits down, place a bottle on the table, wakes Vader Jr up from one month of sleep.
Kid2: Ibu, I'm hungry so I'm making ramen. Do you want any?
Me: No, thank you. I'm good.
Kid2 comes back to the living room, looking weird.
Me: What's up?
Kid 2: I appreciate the addition of the black sesame seeds but they're going to be soggy.
Me: (sesame seeds??!! W.T.E.L.F. I just had it a couple of weeks ago)
Walks to the kitchen to investigate, sees the weevils. Throws away the noodle, clean up and walks back to the living room.
Me: You know what, I'm hungry. Let's order takeout and then we need to talk.
Kid2: Is it about the bees and honeys / bees and bees / honeys and honeys? Because I learned them in Science already, what about my ramen? can we order McD?I feel like eating the fries, should we wake Kid1?bla,bla,bla.
Me: (looks at Vader Jr, looks like we're not reconciling tonight)
This book came to my attention thanks to the excellent reviews written by Tere, Jules and F(if you read F's review, don't be surprised if Dominos appear on your front door half an hour later)
Yup, this book is a good one, very alluring love interest, leads that communicate with each other, worthy secondary characters and a very interesting ballet performance idea featuring a violinist. This is the perfect book to be introduced to my gay challenged relatives.
Two reasons why I can't rate it higher, it's a bit too cheesy especially from Mallory's side and the darlings vomit. Ms. Duncan, it must have taken you some time to come up with the name Addison and what a beautiful name it is then why do you have to rain on my Addison Montgomery parade by making Mallory call Addison 'darling'
If you're looking for something sweet and fluffy but not allowed to devour marshmallows, then this is the perfect read for you especially when you're stuck indoor due to weather. Now off to call Dominos.
Hang on, I practice the "Go hide from the world for a bit " session (for about 3O minutes to an hour) mentioned by the wonderful Lena Black (good move there, Ms.Duncan) and usually Vader Jr is my constant companion and sometimes an OTR Americano with a slice of blueberry cheesecake or plain scones will join me during such session. Do any of you practice the same session? If yes, it'll be interesting to know what's your preferred activity and your companion.
Kid2: Ibu, I'm hungry so I'm making ramen. Do you want any?
Me: No, thank you. I'm good.
Kid2 comes back to the living room, looking weird.
Me: What's up?
Kid 2: I appreciate the addition of the black sesame seeds but they're going to be soggy.
Me: (sesame seeds??!! W.T.E.L.F. I just had it a couple of weeks ago)
Walks to the kitchen to investigate, sees the weevils. Throws away the noodle, clean up and walks back to the living room.
Me: You know what, I'm hungry. Let's order takeout and then we need to talk.
Kid2: Is it about the bees and honeys / bees and bees / honeys and honeys? Because I learned them in Science already, what about my ramen? can we order McD?I feel like eating the fries, should we wake Kid1?bla,bla,bla.
Me: (looks at Vader Jr, looks like we're not reconciling tonight)
This book came to my attention thanks to the excellent reviews written by Tere, Jules and F(if you read F's review, don't be surprised if Dominos appear on your front door half an hour later)
Yup, this book is a good one, very alluring love interest, leads that communicate with each other, worthy secondary characters and a very interesting ballet performance idea featuring a violinist. This is the perfect book to be introduced to my gay challenged relatives.
Two reasons why I can't rate it higher, it's a bit too cheesy especially from Mallory's side and the darlings vomit. Ms. Duncan, it must have taken you some time to come up with the name Addison and what a beautiful name it is then why do you have to rain on my Addison Montgomery parade by making Mallory call Addison 'darling'
If you're looking for something sweet and fluffy but not allowed to devour marshmallows, then this is the perfect read for you especially when you're stuck indoor due to weather. Now off to call Dominos.
Hang on, I practice the "Go hide from the world for a bit " session (for about 3O minutes to an hour) mentioned by the wonderful Lena Black (good move there, Ms.Duncan) and usually Vader Jr is my constant companion and sometimes an OTR Americano with a slice of blueberry cheesecake or plain scones will join me during such session. Do any of you practice the same session? If yes, it'll be interesting to know what's your preferred activity and your companion.
October 6, 2022
This is the second of a series and characters from the first are significant in this one, if only for Mallory's relationship damage. That story didn't appeal to me so I skipped it. I'm actually kind of glad I did because it sounds like those events had a large effect on Mallory as a person and I suspect that I like where she ended up a whole lot better than she would have been in that story.
I've had enough experience with Duncan as a writer to suspect this would be in the same vein—a largely-smooth romance with a gentle slope and few real setbacks. I can't tell you how happy it makes me that this seems to be a regular feature of hers. Mallory and Addison are obviously interested each other right from the start. Yeah, there's a huge age difference (beyond the squick formula, even) and Mallory is very aware of this at first. But it doesn't take long for her to overcome her scruples in the face of Addison's obvious interest and the maturity grown of being a prima ballerina.
The story hinges on them collaborating in a ballet with violin duet and Duncan writes amazingly evocatively of this production. I'd really like to be able to see it, though I suspect the impact wouldn't be quite so strong seeing it live. I wondered if this was based on some real event, but I don't have enough energy behind that curiosity to do any kind of search because I suspect the results would be as disappointing if I found something as it would be if I didn't find anything at all.
Anyway, I really liked both characters and I liked their relationship as well. Duncan is very good at this kind of story and I wish she were more prolific. I have no idea why I hesitate on things older than four or five years* but I look forward to her next when I pick it up.
Oh, right. I nearly forgot to say I'm giving this five stars. I was engaged from the start and loved getting to know Mallory. And Addison through her.
A note about Steamy: The other stories by Duncan I read had lots and lots of long sex scenes. This one has only a couple and they were fairly short. I waited long enough to write this review that I'm not sure if it made it to the middle of my steam tolerance or not, but I suspect not.
* A note about LGBT stories older than five years or so: I debated admitting this or not because I don't like politics and online cat fighting and this feels like an opening for people to troll me. I catch enough flak from those who feel like a bisexual guy doesn't deserve to say anything about lesbian romances that I'm developing a reflex to steer clear of certain kinds of comments. But I hate that reflex and don't want to give it space in my head if I can avoid it. So I'll admit that I feel like the LGBT community crossed a line relatively recently where their stories are starting to drop the defensive crouch of being an oft-denigrated minority. I'm not saying that everything is rosy, but I feel like the tenor of the stories are less grounded in the persecution and more grounded in the characters as people. And it's the characters as people that draw me to the genre. So I admit that I side-eye lesbian romances of a certain age even as I admit that may be totally unfair and I'm missing some great stories as a result.
I've had enough experience with Duncan as a writer to suspect this would be in the same vein—a largely-smooth romance with a gentle slope and few real setbacks. I can't tell you how happy it makes me that this seems to be a regular feature of hers. Mallory and Addison are obviously interested each other right from the start. Yeah, there's a huge age difference (beyond the squick formula, even) and Mallory is very aware of this at first. But it doesn't take long for her to overcome her scruples in the face of Addison's obvious interest and the maturity grown of being a prima ballerina.
The story hinges on them collaborating in a ballet with violin duet and Duncan writes amazingly evocatively of this production. I'd really like to be able to see it, though I suspect the impact wouldn't be quite so strong seeing it live. I wondered if this was based on some real event, but I don't have enough energy behind that curiosity to do any kind of search because I suspect the results would be as disappointing if I found something as it would be if I didn't find anything at all.
Anyway, I really liked both characters and I liked their relationship as well. Duncan is very good at this kind of story and I wish she were more prolific. I have no idea why I hesitate on things older than four or five years* but I look forward to her next when I pick it up.
Oh, right. I nearly forgot to say I'm giving this five stars. I was engaged from the start and loved getting to know Mallory. And Addison through her.
A note about Steamy: The other stories by Duncan I read had lots and lots of long sex scenes. This one has only a couple and they were fairly short. I waited long enough to write this review that I'm not sure if it made it to the middle of my steam tolerance or not, but I suspect not.
* A note about LGBT stories older than five years or so: I debated admitting this or not because I don't like politics and online cat fighting and this feels like an opening for people to troll me. I catch enough flak from those who feel like a bisexual guy doesn't deserve to say anything about lesbian romances that I'm developing a reflex to steer clear of certain kinds of comments. But I hate that reflex and don't want to give it space in my head if I can avoid it. So I'll admit that I feel like the LGBT community crossed a line relatively recently where their stories are starting to drop the defensive crouch of being an oft-denigrated minority. I'm not saying that everything is rosy, but I feel like the tenor of the stories are less grounded in the persecution and more grounded in the characters as people. And it's the characters as people that draw me to the genre. So I admit that I side-eye lesbian romances of a certain age even as I admit that may be totally unfair and I'm missing some great stories as a result.
May 13, 2019
4.5 Stars
I've read a lot of MJ Duncan's work and many of it is her Fanfic (SVU (good series), Criminal Minds, Rizzoli & Isles). I did not read the previous book in this series, Symphony in Blue. Although music based books are a favorite genre of mine, infidelity is not. So I skipped it. As for Pas de Deux, I hesitated a bit because a quick glance through the reviews, some mentioned how much they disliked Mallory in the previous book. I'm glad I didn't read Symphony, because Mallory was a new character for me - a clean slate.
Mallory Collingswood has returned to London about 10 months earlier after spending a few years playing for the Los Angeles Philharmonic. She is in her dream job as Leader of the Orchestra (Concertmaster) of the London Symphony Orchestra. I was aware that the Concertmaster was important (they take the stage when the Conductor does) but I wasn't aware of how much work they do, besides being the best violinist. They do a bit of personnel, decide the bowing for the strings, a go between the orchestra and the conductor. This makes sense that an orchestra would need such a person, as there are often guest conductors. It is this audition that she was working on in Symphony in Blue. As far as I remember Duncan doesn't say exactly how old Mallory is, but I'm assuming in her 30s. Mallory is still hurting after her breakup with her girlfriend, Gwen from Symphony in Blue.
Mallory is asked to do a ballet, Pas de Deux (a dance for two) with The Royal Ballet. This new ballet which would be just Mallory playing her violin and dancing on stage with their principal ballerina, Addison Leigh. Nina, the ex-ballerina/artistic director/choreographer is sure she can teach Mallory. On top of all her duties, practices, & concerts, Mallory agrees. Somehow fitting in ballet practices, rehearsals and performances.
Addison, an American, is in her early twenties and is starting her fourth season with TRB. Obviously both these ladies were child prodigies.
This is a slow burn, friends to lovers romance with no angst to speak of. Which is fine with me. A sweet romance. There is also a good supporting cast, the main ones are Mallory's best friend Will (Oboe player) and Addison's best friend and fellow ballerina, Gabriella (Gabs). They add a bit of comic relief and support for the couple.
Duncan describes it well, so well that I really would like to see the promotional photoshoot photographs of the Ballerina and Violinist myself. The tickets went fast after they were published.
So yes, I enjoyed the story and Duncan writes good characters. However, she is in need of an editor. If anything to catch inconsistencies. (ie. Will is sometimes a Bassoonist and other times an Oboe player. Both double reed instruments but very different). There is at least one other example and I don't usually catch those things.
I've read a lot of MJ Duncan's work and many of it is her Fanfic (SVU (good series), Criminal Minds, Rizzoli & Isles). I did not read the previous book in this series, Symphony in Blue. Although music based books are a favorite genre of mine, infidelity is not. So I skipped it. As for Pas de Deux, I hesitated a bit because a quick glance through the reviews, some mentioned how much they disliked Mallory in the previous book. I'm glad I didn't read Symphony, because Mallory was a new character for me - a clean slate.
Mallory Collingswood has returned to London about 10 months earlier after spending a few years playing for the Los Angeles Philharmonic. She is in her dream job as Leader of the Orchestra (Concertmaster) of the London Symphony Orchestra. I was aware that the Concertmaster was important (they take the stage when the Conductor does) but I wasn't aware of how much work they do, besides being the best violinist. They do a bit of personnel, decide the bowing for the strings, a go between the orchestra and the conductor. This makes sense that an orchestra would need such a person, as there are often guest conductors. It is this audition that she was working on in Symphony in Blue. As far as I remember Duncan doesn't say exactly how old Mallory is, but I'm assuming in her 30s. Mallory is still hurting after her breakup with her girlfriend, Gwen from Symphony in Blue.
Mallory is asked to do a ballet, Pas de Deux (a dance for two) with The Royal Ballet. This new ballet which would be just Mallory playing her violin and dancing on stage with their principal ballerina, Addison Leigh. Nina, the ex-ballerina/artistic director/choreographer is sure she can teach Mallory. On top of all her duties, practices, & concerts, Mallory agrees. Somehow fitting in ballet practices, rehearsals and performances.
Addison, an American, is in her early twenties and is starting her fourth season with TRB. Obviously both these ladies were child prodigies.
This is a slow burn, friends to lovers romance with no angst to speak of. Which is fine with me. A sweet romance. There is also a good supporting cast, the main ones are Mallory's best friend Will (Oboe player) and Addison's best friend and fellow ballerina, Gabriella (Gabs). They add a bit of comic relief and support for the couple.
Duncan describes it well, so well that I really would like to see the promotional photoshoot photographs of the Ballerina and Violinist myself. The tickets went fast after they were published.
So yes, I enjoyed the story and Duncan writes good characters. However, she is in need of an editor. If anything to catch inconsistencies. (ie. Will is sometimes a Bassoonist and other times an Oboe player. Both double reed instruments but very different). There is at least one other example and I don't usually catch those things.
May 12, 2019
A follow on from Symphony in Blue. Here we follow Mallory - the star violinist- on her healing journey in London. We weren’t meant to like Mallory in the first book but she was my favourite character and the most interesting one. Oddly enough she became much less interesting in this book. I guess she just seems normal after all.
She is thrown in to the deep end working with young star ballerina Addison on a dance/ music performance. You won’t think it too much of a spoiler when I tell you that love blossoms very soon.
I thought the book very exciting when it started. And then less so about 3/4 way through. As in the last book we have two people who fall in love but don’t act on it beyond something that has all the hallmarks of a relationship but without the sex. All the intimacy comes towards the end. Now, when I was little I had the idea that since I loved the toppings on pizza best of the whole thing, I should push it all into the centre and eat it all last, once I made my way through the quite dry base, and be left as a wonderful happy ending with just good bits. Of course the problems with that are aplenty. You have a lot of dry pizza and are a bit too full when you finally get to the good bits. And then you discover that a mountain of toppings isn’t that nice....
I was reminded of that reading this book. By the time we hit intimacy and I love you’s, I felt a bit full and I wish it had been a bit more spread out, because there was no tension to keep it going.
It’s free on KU. I cannot think of a single reason why you wouldn’t want to read this. There’s no drama. There’s a a lot of love. It’s sweet.
I’m off to have luncheon. All this talk of pizza made me hungry....
She is thrown in to the deep end working with young star ballerina Addison on a dance/ music performance. You won’t think it too much of a spoiler when I tell you that love blossoms very soon.
I thought the book very exciting when it started. And then less so about 3/4 way through. As in the last book we have two people who fall in love but don’t act on it beyond something that has all the hallmarks of a relationship but without the sex. All the intimacy comes towards the end. Now, when I was little I had the idea that since I loved the toppings on pizza best of the whole thing, I should push it all into the centre and eat it all last, once I made my way through the quite dry base, and be left as a wonderful happy ending with just good bits. Of course the problems with that are aplenty. You have a lot of dry pizza and are a bit too full when you finally get to the good bits. And then you discover that a mountain of toppings isn’t that nice....
I was reminded of that reading this book. By the time we hit intimacy and I love you’s, I felt a bit full and I wish it had been a bit more spread out, because there was no tension to keep it going.
It’s free on KU. I cannot think of a single reason why you wouldn’t want to read this. There’s no drama. There’s a a lot of love. It’s sweet.
I’m off to have luncheon. All this talk of pizza made me hungry....
May 5, 2019
Pas de Deux is the follow up to Symphony in Blue which I loved. In Blue, Gwen and Mallory are quietly falling apart as a couple in L.A. That first book follows Gwen’s pov as she gravitates towards new love, Dana. We only superficially learn about Mallory and so there’s not a lot of sympathy felt towards her as she gets left behind. We just don’t know her.
The sequel starts up about a year later as Mallory is now living comfortably as the leader of the orchestra in London. Her professional life is everything she’d hoped as one of the world’s premier violinists, a nice social life with friends and outings but the sting of profound rejection is still there. Then when the opportunity to do a special project with the Ballet arises, her life changes in every way possible.
For me, the best part of the book is seeing the flip side of the original break up. Even though, it’s been a year or more, Mallory is still very guarded. She’s not an outwardly emotional person anyway but privately, she’s wounded and older which makes it a difficult rebound for any new involvement.
Enter Addison, a very young, beautiful brunette with a southern drawl and charm. Addison is truly the sunshine on Mallory’s cloudy day, the proverbial breath of fresh air, the nubile dancer who willingly showers her with unabashed affection and love. Sweetest of all, she patiently waits for Mallory.
There are always two sides to a story, everyone says.
The sequel starts up about a year later as Mallory is now living comfortably as the leader of the orchestra in London. Her professional life is everything she’d hoped as one of the world’s premier violinists, a nice social life with friends and outings but the sting of profound rejection is still there. Then when the opportunity to do a special project with the Ballet arises, her life changes in every way possible.
For me, the best part of the book is seeing the flip side of the original break up. Even though, it’s been a year or more, Mallory is still very guarded. She’s not an outwardly emotional person anyway but privately, she’s wounded and older which makes it a difficult rebound for any new involvement.
Enter Addison, a very young, beautiful brunette with a southern drawl and charm. Addison is truly the sunshine on Mallory’s cloudy day, the proverbial breath of fresh air, the nubile dancer who willingly showers her with unabashed affection and love. Sweetest of all, she patiently waits for Mallory.
There are always two sides to a story, everyone says.
April 25, 2019
Well, I feel all I do is confess something or the other nowadays. I am a Duncan fan and have enjoyed all her novels. This author is one of the reasons I decided to renew my Kindle Unlimited membership as her books are available through this service. Of course, I figured that out after actually buying three of them. Wait, do not think I needed to confess that...
This is an age gap romance that sees Mallory Collingswood (age 39), a violin prodigy who has returned home to lead the London Symphony Orchestra, deal with a failed marriage proposal and give love another chance. That chance takes the form of Addison Leigh (age 24), a ballerina prodigy making waves with the Royal Ballet. Mallory is presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity to collaborate with the Royal Ballet in a project that will push her skills to the max while getting her to step out of her comfort zone in other areas. Mallory accepts and finds herself working tirelessly alongside a new and unexpected partner.
This story starts almost a year after ‘Symphony in Blue’, which was released in 2017. You do not need to read that book to get the story in this one. In fact, I wonder if it was more of a hindrance for me since Mallory was not cast in a good light in that book. I had to get over the previous feelings of Mallory being self centered and just plain inconsiderate and warm up to her in this story. It helped that Mallory does allude to her shortcomings and shows growth through the book.
This was a straightforward tale with no angst in it. Characters were rational and took their time to know each other. The relationship developed over time and at no point felt unrealistic. Ms Duncan does a great job describing things such as little courtesies towards each other that allows the romance to feel genuine. The author also did a fantastic job creating the setting. The ballet scenes were great and one could feel the anxiety and magnitude of the events within the scenes. More palpable though, was the beauty of it all. And I am not even close to being a ballet fan.
On the downside, the book felt drawn out a bit. There was no conflict at all in this story except for executing the ambitious show to perfection. The age difference came up once and it was simply and acknowledgment of it. Parents loved the mains so no conflict there either. Heck, the mains’ hectic schedules did not really affect anything either. The presence of a few typos seemed uncharacteristic for this author as well. That said, Duncan kept me reading as she usually does.
Overall a solid slow-burn romance that will especially appeal to music/dance fans. 3.5 stars
This is an age gap romance that sees Mallory Collingswood (age 39), a violin prodigy who has returned home to lead the London Symphony Orchestra, deal with a failed marriage proposal and give love another chance. That chance takes the form of Addison Leigh (age 24), a ballerina prodigy making waves with the Royal Ballet. Mallory is presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity to collaborate with the Royal Ballet in a project that will push her skills to the max while getting her to step out of her comfort zone in other areas. Mallory accepts and finds herself working tirelessly alongside a new and unexpected partner.
This story starts almost a year after ‘Symphony in Blue’, which was released in 2017. You do not need to read that book to get the story in this one. In fact, I wonder if it was more of a hindrance for me since Mallory was not cast in a good light in that book. I had to get over the previous feelings of Mallory being self centered and just plain inconsiderate and warm up to her in this story. It helped that Mallory does allude to her shortcomings and shows growth through the book.
This was a straightforward tale with no angst in it. Characters were rational and took their time to know each other. The relationship developed over time and at no point felt unrealistic. Ms Duncan does a great job describing things such as little courtesies towards each other that allows the romance to feel genuine. The author also did a fantastic job creating the setting. The ballet scenes were great and one could feel the anxiety and magnitude of the events within the scenes. More palpable though, was the beauty of it all. And I am not even close to being a ballet fan.
On the downside, the book felt drawn out a bit. There was no conflict at all in this story except for executing the ambitious show to perfection. The age difference came up once and it was simply and acknowledgment of it. Parents loved the mains so no conflict there either. Heck, the mains’ hectic schedules did not really affect anything either. The presence of a few typos seemed uncharacteristic for this author as well. That said, Duncan kept me reading as she usually does.
Overall a solid slow-burn romance that will especially appeal to music/dance fans. 3.5 stars
December 12, 2022
Absolutely beautiful romance set in the world of both music and ballet!
May 7, 2019
Really original
Well that was just great(no spoilers). It so great to read a story that actually had a story. So many books just now seem sometimes to lack any depth this cannot be said about this. I enjoyed learning the back stage stuff that goes on in great theatres. It did not get stuck anywhere. I enjoyed all the characters and liked getting to know them.This book is a keeper I will enjoy reading again to pick up so the little stuff I missed first time around. Cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Well that was just great(no spoilers). It so great to read a story that actually had a story. So many books just now seem sometimes to lack any depth this cannot be said about this. I enjoyed learning the back stage stuff that goes on in great theatres. It did not get stuck anywhere. I enjoyed all the characters and liked getting to know them.This book is a keeper I will enjoy reading again to pick up so the little stuff I missed first time around. Cannot recommend this book highly enough.
August 28, 2019
Let me first start by saying that I didn't read book 1 of this series. I was going to read it, but after I read some reviews on it I decided that I should skip it. So back to Pas de Deux, I enjoyed the story line. I really liked both Mallory and Addison. Honestly, I loved Addison. She is such a kind and loving person full of understanding and patience. She is only 24, but seems older and that is likely because she lived away from her parents since she was 10. Mallory was also an enjoyable character and they paired really well together. The chemistry in this one was well written and the slow burn was also rather enjoyable. I really liked how and when the sex played out. I thought it was appropriate and fitting and honestly it was well done.
I really wanted to give this one something higher than 4 stars, but I could not for a couple of reasons. I found that there were more errors with spelling and a few inconsistencies with some details. Also, the books slowed down between 50 and 60% and I was a tad bit bored. Anyway, this really could have been 5 stars if not for those things.
4 solid stars.
I really wanted to give this one something higher than 4 stars, but I could not for a couple of reasons. I found that there were more errors with spelling and a few inconsistencies with some details. Also, the books slowed down between 50 and 60% and I was a tad bit bored. Anyway, this really could have been 5 stars if not for those things.
4 solid stars.
April 28, 2020
This is one of the best books I've ever read! I loved everything about it from the complexity of both Addison and Mallory to their chemistry and relationship.
April 30, 2025
I took a bit of a break from MJ Duncan because the first book of hers I ever read was Unadulterated Something, which I loved. But then the six books I read between Unadulterated Something and Pas de Deux were mostly disappointing. Also Pas de Deux is the second book in a series in which the first book, Symphony in Blue, is my lowest-rated Duncan book to date. I didn't even like Mallory very much in that back. And Pas de Deux features a big age gap (15 years), so I was prepared not to like this book very much. But I actually loved it?
What Pas de Deux gets right is the romantic build-up. It's also the element I find so lacking in Duncan's other books. And, honestly, getting the romance part right is ironically missing in the romance genre. But Duncan gives her characters space and time to develop their relationship and the reader gets to join in on the adventure--all the flirting, the longing looks, the little touches... I ate it all up! So much so that the age gap barely made an impression in my brain. And if that's not an endorsement, I don't know what else is.
But this isn't a perfect book. There are way too many proof-reading/editing errors in the book, along with details the Duncan just mixes up. At times Addison is either taller or shorter than Mallory. Is Mallory carrying her briefcase or her violin case? Those details would switch within the same scene. So I have to remove points for that. Because people are paying for this book.
What Pas de Deux gets right is the romantic build-up. It's also the element I find so lacking in Duncan's other books. And, honestly, getting the romance part right is ironically missing in the romance genre. But Duncan gives her characters space and time to develop their relationship and the reader gets to join in on the adventure--all the flirting, the longing looks, the little touches... I ate it all up! So much so that the age gap barely made an impression in my brain. And if that's not an endorsement, I don't know what else is.
But this isn't a perfect book. There are way too many proof-reading/editing errors in the book, along with details the Duncan just mixes up. At times Addison is either taller or shorter than Mallory. Is Mallory carrying her briefcase or her violin case? Those details would switch within the same scene. So I have to remove points for that. Because people are paying for this book.
May 26, 2023
I think I'm feeling rather generous with rating this 3 stars. While I was contemplating writing this I liked the book less and less.
Similar to Symphony in Blue this one needs another solid editing round. A bit of killing the darlings so to speak. Again lots of repetition and monotonous scenes. I actually liked both characters, I like them together, but I don't appreciate the age gap. I don't necessarily object to one, but 15 years is a lot when one is 24 and the other 39. I think for me 8-10 would have worked much better. What makes it worse are the terms of endearment they use. Mallory uses darling a lot, not only for Addy but friends as well. Addy calls Mallory sweetie, I have so many issues with this one I don't even know where to begin.
There is this point, around the 60% mark, that I really appreciate the story and the characters for a few chapters. I really don't mind this story. I think it's just all the ballet and symphony talk that's yawn-inducing for me. I can't get myself to like either of those things. Also, the violin might be the instrument I hate most in the world...
About 100 pages less, not so much ballet talk, a smaller age gap, and a bit of tighter editing and it's a winner. (maybe 2 stars would be a fairer reflection of my overall feelings).
Similar to Symphony in Blue this one needs another solid editing round. A bit of killing the darlings so to speak. Again lots of repetition and monotonous scenes. I actually liked both characters, I like them together, but I don't appreciate the age gap. I don't necessarily object to one, but 15 years is a lot when one is 24 and the other 39. I think for me 8-10 would have worked much better. What makes it worse are the terms of endearment they use. Mallory uses darling a lot, not only for Addy but friends as well. Addy calls Mallory sweetie, I have so many issues with this one I don't even know where to begin.
There is this point, around the 60% mark, that I really appreciate the story and the characters for a few chapters. I really don't mind this story. I think it's just all the ballet and symphony talk that's yawn-inducing for me. I can't get myself to like either of those things. Also, the violin might be the instrument I hate most in the world...
About 100 pages less, not so much ballet talk, a smaller age gap, and a bit of tighter editing and it's a winner. (maybe 2 stars would be a fairer reflection of my overall feelings).
July 15, 2020
I wasn't going to read this book, I really didn't like Mallory in Symphony in Blue, but I gave in and I'm really glad I did. Mallory went from being aloof and appearing heartless in the first book, to a much more relatable character in Pas de Deux.
I love an age gap romance and I really enjoyed seeing Mallory's perspective on the things that happened in the previous book and how they impact any possible new relationship she enters into. I appreciated the fact that Duncan didn't sweep things under the carpet and didn't attempt to suddenly make Mallory into a "perfect" character.
London was the perfect setting for this story and I seem to have a thing for books with characters that meet at coffee shops. I liked the character of Addison and really enjoyed the descriptions of the ballet, along with the realism of the writing regarding the sacrifices that must be made for a creative career.
I would highly recommend this book, especially if you can take advantage of the KU.
I love an age gap romance and I really enjoyed seeing Mallory's perspective on the things that happened in the previous book and how they impact any possible new relationship she enters into. I appreciated the fact that Duncan didn't sweep things under the carpet and didn't attempt to suddenly make Mallory into a "perfect" character.
London was the perfect setting for this story and I seem to have a thing for books with characters that meet at coffee shops. I liked the character of Addison and really enjoyed the descriptions of the ballet, along with the realism of the writing regarding the sacrifices that must be made for a creative career.
I would highly recommend this book, especially if you can take advantage of the KU.
April 24, 2019
Great follow up to Symphony in Blue. I love books that soften and vindicate the villains. ‘Villain’ may not be the right word for Mallory in Symphony but she definitely was not painted in the best light.
I really loved both characters and reading Mallory work through her heartbreak and rebuild her life in London. It’s a very sweet slow romance between her and Addison. The ballet and music setting are very well done. I’d definitely recommend. I’ll likely reread this one again in the future.
I really loved both characters and reading Mallory work through her heartbreak and rebuild her life in London. It’s a very sweet slow romance between her and Addison. The ballet and music setting are very well done. I’d definitely recommend. I’ll likely reread this one again in the future.
August 19, 2019
The follow up to Symphony in Blue - felt quite difficult at first as though she wasn't exactly the "baddie" in the first one Mallory didn't come out in a good way: but as her voice grew I had to re-assess S in B, and Gwen… Humpth! But I loved the story, the friends / background and of course the romance.
October 15, 2019
Pas de Deux is a follow up to Symphony in Blue. It can be read as a stand alone, but I would recommend reading Symphony in Blue first. By doing so, it will allow you to fully appreciate the character of Mallory.
In Symphony of Blue, the story is told from Gwen’s point of view. We only see their relationship through her eyes. We never get Mallory’s perspective. We never really understand what Mallory is thinking or feeling. However, in Pas de Deux, the story shifts perspective and is told from Mallory’s point of view. We gain a greater understanding of the relationship between the two women; it’s interesting to see it from this perspective. In Symphony in Blue, Gwen presents Mallory as cold, uncaring and, at times, even a bit indifferent. However, Pas de Deux gives us more insight into Mallory. We see that she was often just misunderstood by Gwen. It becomes clear that the two are very ill matched and ill suited for each other.
With her breakup from Gwen, Mallory takes examination of herself and comes to realize she wasn’t always present in their relationship. She realizes that she employed horrible communication skills. Armed with this new self-awareness, she begins to make a conscious effort to change. This change forces her to step out of her comfort zone. When this happens, Mallory begins a wonderful metamorphosis. Her life transforms in ways she never could have imagined.
MJ Duncan did a superb job crafting this story. She can weave a tale that will leave you longing for more. Her characters are always interesting and dynamic. I appreciate the attention she gives to character development. It’s always wonderful when writers can create characters that have wonderful arcs. I give high praise to Pas de Deux. MJ penned a solid book.
October 10, 2020
Seriously one of the best wlw for me!! This gave me a lot of feels. I am starting and attending workshops to be a theater actress professionally and all the scenes for when they are preparing, practicing, performing and giving their bows until greeting the audience/fans and families who came after the show, I felt it all! Since the pandemic started I wasn’t able to perform or play at some games at school but reading this, ugh this was so good and I feel like I felt the high all over again. I fell in love with Mallory and Addison. God I love them so much. Their passion and their love for each of their profession was so well written. And their love for each other? yup, im a sucker for that. Will surely give it a read again in the future. I haven’t read Symphony in Blue yet though and I think I will not be able to read it anytime soon since I’m totally in love with Mallory sjsksj but well who knows lol. Thank you so much for this masterpiece! Until your next novel. x
April 25, 2019
Good but not great
This was a good romance but not great. My main complaint is I had trouble getting past the way Gwen is portrayed in this story as opposed to in Symphony in Blue. Mallory is all the victim in Deux. I understand that this is Mallory's story, but she didn't really recognize any of her own mistakes she made with Gwen and why that relationship ended the way it did. We don't really see how she's changed to become now the perfect partner to Addy, who i loved. Maybe if I hadn't read Symphony first, I would feel differently about this book
I love Ms. Duncan's books and will keep buying them, but I don't recall seeing so many little editing mistakes as in this book.
This was a good romance but not great. My main complaint is I had trouble getting past the way Gwen is portrayed in this story as opposed to in Symphony in Blue. Mallory is all the victim in Deux. I understand that this is Mallory's story, but she didn't really recognize any of her own mistakes she made with Gwen and why that relationship ended the way it did. We don't really see how she's changed to become now the perfect partner to Addy, who i loved. Maybe if I hadn't read Symphony first, I would feel differently about this book
I love Ms. Duncan's books and will keep buying them, but I don't recall seeing so many little editing mistakes as in this book.
December 30, 2024
This was a no relationship drama romantic story. Once in a while it is nice to come across such rosy tales and the interweaving of music & dance was well done
December 19, 2020
A great follow up and great story on its own.
I wasn’t sure that I could sympathize with Mallory after reading a Symphony in Blue. It didn’t take me long to figure out that I could. Endearing Mallory to the reader was done very well and seamlessly. I loved this book! As always there are 2 sides to every coin and seeing things from Mallory’s perspective was easy and enlightening. Great job! I highly recommend anything by MJ Duncan.
I wasn’t sure that I could sympathize with Mallory after reading a Symphony in Blue. It didn’t take me long to figure out that I could. Endearing Mallory to the reader was done very well and seamlessly. I loved this book! As always there are 2 sides to every coin and seeing things from Mallory’s perspective was easy and enlightening. Great job! I highly recommend anything by MJ Duncan.
December 27, 2019
Pas de deux
Another lovely evolution of romance between the MC's in this incredibly sweet story. After a bit of a slower start, which set the scene and linked this story to her other novel 'symphony in blue' the story really came into its own.
The main reason for 4* instead of 5 was the typos, enough wrong or missed words to interrupt the flow when they happened.
Another lovely evolution of romance between the MC's in this incredibly sweet story. After a bit of a slower start, which set the scene and linked this story to her other novel 'symphony in blue' the story really came into its own.
The main reason for 4* instead of 5 was the typos, enough wrong or missed words to interrupt the flow when they happened.
April 30, 2021
So very good
This was great and well written. Enjoyed the story of Mallory and Addison. Never been a fan of ballet, but this story had me hooked. Wonderful job!
This was great and well written. Enjoyed the story of Mallory and Addison. Never been a fan of ballet, but this story had me hooked. Wonderful job!
June 1, 2019
Lovely story!
I loved this story very much! I read Symphony In Blue and even though I liked Gwen and Dana, I felt that Mallory needed a better ending. I’m glad that this story gives Mallory her happily ever after when she returns to London. The relationship between Mallory and Addison was very sweet to watch from when they first meet at the cafe to its fruition further down the line. It was cute to have a tie in to Spectrum referencing the wine from back in the US and Veritas with an add from their catamaran tours on the magazine on the table. I’m hoping there will be another book about Nina and Clara to tie up loose ends regarding their complicated relationship.
I loved this story very much! I read Symphony In Blue and even though I liked Gwen and Dana, I felt that Mallory needed a better ending. I’m glad that this story gives Mallory her happily ever after when she returns to London. The relationship between Mallory and Addison was very sweet to watch from when they first meet at the cafe to its fruition further down the line. It was cute to have a tie in to Spectrum referencing the wine from back in the US and Veritas with an add from their catamaran tours on the magazine on the table. I’m hoping there will be another book about Nina and Clara to tie up loose ends regarding their complicated relationship.
September 9, 2020
I wish I could see Evolution on stage in all its perfection. What a cute love story. Both Mal and Addy are absolutely adorable and I want to hug them both and never let go. The added layer of Nina and Clara made it even better. I love those two together as well. And both Addy’s and Mal’s friends just accepting the new addition to their groups? Gah, I love it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2019
Excellent!
I loved Pas de Deux. What a great story. It was so nice to catch up with Mallory. Addison is a great addition to the cast. Loved this book. Be sure to read Symphony in Blue before you read this one.
I loved Pas de Deux. What a great story. It was so nice to catch up with Mallory. Addison is a great addition to the cast. Loved this book. Be sure to read Symphony in Blue before you read this one.
April 20, 2019
Absolutely beautiful. That's it, read it !!!
September 20, 2023
cute
I really enjoyed Mallory’s story. To be honest, I hated her in the first book but after reading her story, she definitely grew on me. I loved Addison. She was so sweet and perfect. The book was a tad be too long and winded for me. I feel that it could have been shorter and the story still would have been told fine. Overall tho it was a cute read.
I really enjoyed Mallory’s story. To be honest, I hated her in the first book but after reading her story, she definitely grew on me. I loved Addison. She was so sweet and perfect. The book was a tad be too long and winded for me. I feel that it could have been shorter and the story still would have been told fine. Overall tho it was a cute read.
October 22, 2020
In Symphony in Blue, I never liked Gwen because of what she did to Mallory. I didn't like Mallory in the first book because I didn't know her, but I felt bad for how she was treated by Gwen.
I was so happy to learn this was a follow up for Mallory and give the readers a chance to meet Mallory for who she is and why she was the ways she was in Symphony in Blue (even if from Gwen's POV).
With all of Duncan's works, I love spotting the references to her previous works so now I'm kicking myself not spotting the Veritas reference that Duncan mentioned in the Acknowledgements that she had slipped in. Though I hope in future works by Duncan we can get a glimpse to how Anna and Bryn are doing besides characters getting a bottle from Spectrum, I have a soft spot for those two, an interview in a magazine that a character is reading perhaps? Just a thing I hope to see eventually, but continue to love any references to her previous works for the Duncan universe.
I was so happy to learn this was a follow up for Mallory and give the readers a chance to meet Mallory for who she is and why she was the ways she was in Symphony in Blue (even if from Gwen's POV).
With all of Duncan's works, I love spotting the references to her previous works so now I'm kicking myself not spotting the Veritas reference that Duncan mentioned in the Acknowledgements that she had slipped in. Though I hope in future works by Duncan we can get a glimpse to how Anna and Bryn are doing besides characters getting a bottle from Spectrum, I have a soft spot for those two, an interview in a magazine that a character is reading perhaps? Just a thing I hope to see eventually, but continue to love any references to her previous works for the Duncan universe.
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