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Dirty Dancing #1
First Position
From New York Times bestselling author Melody Grace comes a story of passion, pleasure - and gelato!
Annalise is at a crossroads. She’s dedicated her life to dance, but now she’s wondering if all those missed dates and early nights will be worth the sacrifice. A trip to Rome, Italy is meant to re-inspire her career - but instead, she finds it opening her eyes to everything life has to offer. Like incredible food - and more incredible men.
Raphael is a dancer too, but his approach to art and life is like nothing Annalise has ever seen. It’s passionate. Wild. Temptingly sensual.
As she’s swept up in the romance of Italy, Annalise questions everything she thought she wanted. But when old dreams and new passion collide, what will she choose?
** Book One of a Three Book Series - all available now **
( previously published as With Every Heartbeat, this series has been extensively revised with additional material)
Annalise is at a crossroads. She’s dedicated her life to dance, but now she’s wondering if all those missed dates and early nights will be worth the sacrifice. A trip to Rome, Italy is meant to re-inspire her career - but instead, she finds it opening her eyes to everything life has to offer. Like incredible food - and more incredible men.
Raphael is a dancer too, but his approach to art and life is like nothing Annalise has ever seen. It’s passionate. Wild. Temptingly sensual.
As she’s swept up in the romance of Italy, Annalise questions everything she thought she wanted. But when old dreams and new passion collide, what will she choose?
** Book One of a Three Book Series - all available now **
( previously published as With Every Heartbeat, this series has been extensively revised with additional material)
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2014
88 people are currently reading
1389 people want to read
About the author
Melody Grace
69 books2,633 followersNYT bestselling author of small-town romance. A new chapter in the Sweetbriar Cove series begins with Two Hearts - July 30th!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
July 10, 2015
1 naive and cheesy star. Review posted November 10, 2014
In a nutshell
A nineteen-year-old ballet dancer meets a totalstreet dancer stranger while on tour in Italy and is ecstatic. Enthralled. Stunned. Overwhelmed. Overjoyed. Sorry for the sarcasm. Breath, Annalise. In…out…in…out. See? That's better.
Frankly, I had to endure more eye-roll moments than I would have cared for. Not sure if said heroine even had a brain before she met that stranger. But. As soon as she saw him her brain sashayed down between her clenching thighs. Hmm…what did it do down there? Oops…look! *Baba points one finger at Raphael's blue eyes, one at his dick, another one at his biceps, another one at his legs* You get the gist. He's so gorgeous, she wants him yadda yadda yadda. BTW, Raphael is spelled Raffaele in Italian.
The breath is sucked from my lungs, and I feel a thrill ripple through me, a sensation I've never known before: anticipation, as if I know something important is about to happen. Something life-changing.
And then he starts to dance.
Dear Lord…
Dear Lord. Just no.
My breath gets shallow. I shiver, feeling my nipples tighten. My thighs clench in my jeans.
He presses a flyer into my palm, his eyes lingering on mine. I feel his gaze shoot through me, straight between my thighs.
Next time she sleeps she's only dreaming of HIM. A total stranger but she's so overwhelmed by his physique, she can't stop thinking of HIM.*sigh*
Besides, the allegedly hot stranger invites the naive heroine to a party and without a second thought she's game.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I wish.
Clichéd to the nth and ridiculously cheesy. Greetings from Sapsville.
First Position was a nuisance from start to finish. I couldn't believe how incredibly naive and immature the so-called heroine was. I don't like to beat about the bush. She was an annoying twat. As usual, I have been unwantedly showered with clenching thighs, fevered gazes, fevered lust, blazing eyes, catching breaths, tightening nipples etc. ad friggin' nauseam. There was no build-up whatsoever; from 0 to 100 within a blink of an eye. OMG, I'm overwhelmed too. Not.
Annalise blushed one too many times for my liking. She's inexperienced and insecure and stumbles around, not knowing what to do with herself or her life. Also, sugar-sweet Annalise is gushing over the hero's physique ad libitum. I wouldn't have been surprised if she fainted. At least she didn't giggle, there is that, right?
I forget how to speak. I open my mouth, but no words come out. My brain is too busy screaming with joy.
It's only a light gesture, barely pressing against my camisole, but I feel the touch like a tidal wave, crashing through my body, leaving me breathless and reeling on the shore.
Raphael steps closer.
I look back, and my heart catches in my throat to see the expression in his eyes. Raw and hungry, a mirror of the desire clawing at my body. My heartbeat pounds in my ears as I gaze back, powerless to look away.
(…)
The soft touch slowly ripples through my entire body. My nipples tighten. Heat pools between my thighs. I don't understand the spell he's cast over me, how one minute I feel perfectly normal, and the next, it's like I've leapt off a tall building, in total free-fall towards the ground--loving every second of it.
Raphael finds us a spot in the shadow of a bougainvillea bush and pulls up two chairs. He settles in one, opening a bottle of beer. He lifts it to his lips, and I have to hold in a sigh: he even drinks with grace, the taut muscles of his arm pressing against his shirt, every movement languid and flowing.
Then my stomach flips over, a delicious, slow waltz. I look down, blushing, not sure what to say.
What is this? The fierce excitement burning in my veins. I feel consumed, as if my body has been taken over by some foreign force, sending all other thoughts scattered from my brain and leaving me with only pure need.
Fire raging in my bloodstream. A damp ache between my thighs. Is this what people feel all the time? How am I supposed to function, to focus, now that I know that he is out there in the city somewhere? That he might be thinking about me, feeling this raw craving?
Jesus Christ on a crutch. She. Is. Nineteen. Years. Old.
He rests a hand gently on my arm. His touch sears through me. I catch my breath.
Don't swallow your tongue, my dear.
I brace myself and turn back to Raphael. His eyes blaze into me. My heart catches in my throat.
Dear God, he's mesmerizing.
"So…" I blush, awkward. "What do you want to do now?"
His mouth curls in a smoldering grin. He quirks his eyebrow. "What do you think?"
I gulp. Holy shit. "I, um," I stutter, my mind blank. All I can think about is his lips, his hands, his body…
Dear God, let this be over soon.
*Baba covers her eyes and takes a deep breath*
What's up with the yelping??
"No!" I yelp. "Fine. I mean, I feel great."
Liquid heat rushes through me, pooling tight between my thighs.
Oh my God.
(…)
My stomach turns a slow somersault. I can't look away, totally caught in his hot, fevered gaze as I close my lips around his finger and suck.
It's the most erotic moment of my life.
Licking his finger clean off ice cream is her most erotic moment of her life. Er…ok.
"I want to know how you taste," he tells me, his eyes flashing. He slides his finger out of my mouth, and leans in closer. "I will drink you up, mia cara, every drop."
His mouth closes over mine as I realize what he means.
Oh!
It's too late to exclaim, his lips claiming mine.
I could have added more ridiculous quotes but I had to stop somewhere.
Bottom line, I neither liked the naive heroine nor the slimy hero. The writing was incredibly cheesy and clichéd and didn't resonate with me at all. All the "in-your-face" descriptions felt way OTT and didn't help to make me feel invested in the story either. I don't know how to explain it but I felt the author just tried too hard. As always, less would have been more. This was just bad. Really, really bad. It goes without saying that the last line of the first novella made me insert an extra BIG eye-roll.
Not my cup of tea, that's for sure.
Will I keep on reading this series?
In a nutshell
A nineteen-year-old ballet dancer meets a total
Frankly, I had to endure more eye-roll moments than I would have cared for. Not sure if said heroine even had a brain before she met that stranger. But. As soon as she saw him her brain sashayed down between her clenching thighs. Hmm…what did it do down there? Oops…look! *Baba points one finger at Raphael's blue eyes, one at his dick, another one at his biceps, another one at his legs* You get the gist. He's so gorgeous, she wants him yadda yadda yadda. BTW, Raphael is spelled Raffaele in Italian.
The breath is sucked from my lungs, and I feel a thrill ripple through me, a sensation I've never known before: anticipation, as if I know something important is about to happen. Something life-changing.
And then he starts to dance.
Dear Lord…
Dear Lord. Just no.
My breath gets shallow. I shiver, feeling my nipples tighten. My thighs clench in my jeans.
He presses a flyer into my palm, his eyes lingering on mine. I feel his gaze shoot through me, straight between my thighs.
Next time she sleeps she's only dreaming of HIM. A total stranger but she's so overwhelmed by his physique, she can't stop thinking of HIM.*sigh*
Besides, the allegedly hot stranger invites the naive heroine to a party and without a second thought she's game.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I wish.
Clichéd to the nth and ridiculously cheesy. Greetings from Sapsville.
First Position was a nuisance from start to finish. I couldn't believe how incredibly naive and immature the so-called heroine was. I don't like to beat about the bush. She was an annoying twat. As usual, I have been unwantedly showered with clenching thighs, fevered gazes, fevered lust, blazing eyes, catching breaths, tightening nipples etc. ad friggin' nauseam. There was no build-up whatsoever; from 0 to 100 within a blink of an eye. OMG, I'm overwhelmed too. Not.
Annalise blushed one too many times for my liking. She's inexperienced and insecure and stumbles around, not knowing what to do with herself or her life. Also, sugar-sweet Annalise is gushing over the hero's physique ad libitum. I wouldn't have been surprised if she fainted. At least she didn't giggle, there is that, right?
I forget how to speak. I open my mouth, but no words come out. My brain is too busy screaming with joy.
It's only a light gesture, barely pressing against my camisole, but I feel the touch like a tidal wave, crashing through my body, leaving me breathless and reeling on the shore.
Raphael steps closer.
I look back, and my heart catches in my throat to see the expression in his eyes. Raw and hungry, a mirror of the desire clawing at my body. My heartbeat pounds in my ears as I gaze back, powerless to look away.
(…)
The soft touch slowly ripples through my entire body. My nipples tighten. Heat pools between my thighs. I don't understand the spell he's cast over me, how one minute I feel perfectly normal, and the next, it's like I've leapt off a tall building, in total free-fall towards the ground--loving every second of it.
Raphael finds us a spot in the shadow of a bougainvillea bush and pulls up two chairs. He settles in one, opening a bottle of beer. He lifts it to his lips, and I have to hold in a sigh: he even drinks with grace, the taut muscles of his arm pressing against his shirt, every movement languid and flowing.
Then my stomach flips over, a delicious, slow waltz. I look down, blushing, not sure what to say.
What is this? The fierce excitement burning in my veins. I feel consumed, as if my body has been taken over by some foreign force, sending all other thoughts scattered from my brain and leaving me with only pure need.
Fire raging in my bloodstream. A damp ache between my thighs. Is this what people feel all the time? How am I supposed to function, to focus, now that I know that he is out there in the city somewhere? That he might be thinking about me, feeling this raw craving?
Jesus Christ on a crutch. She. Is. Nineteen. Years. Old.
He rests a hand gently on my arm. His touch sears through me. I catch my breath.
Don't swallow your tongue, my dear.
I brace myself and turn back to Raphael. His eyes blaze into me. My heart catches in my throat.
Dear God, he's mesmerizing.
"So…" I blush, awkward. "What do you want to do now?"
His mouth curls in a smoldering grin. He quirks his eyebrow. "What do you think?"
I gulp. Holy shit. "I, um," I stutter, my mind blank. All I can think about is his lips, his hands, his body…
Dear God, let this be over soon.
*Baba covers her eyes and takes a deep breath*
What's up with the yelping??
"No!" I yelp. "Fine. I mean, I feel great."
Liquid heat rushes through me, pooling tight between my thighs.
Oh my God.
(…)
My stomach turns a slow somersault. I can't look away, totally caught in his hot, fevered gaze as I close my lips around his finger and suck.
It's the most erotic moment of my life.
Licking his finger clean off ice cream is her most erotic moment of her life. Er…ok.
"I want to know how you taste," he tells me, his eyes flashing. He slides his finger out of my mouth, and leans in closer. "I will drink you up, mia cara, every drop."
His mouth closes over mine as I realize what he means.
Oh!
It's too late to exclaim, his lips claiming mine.
I could have added more ridiculous quotes but I had to stop somewhere.
Bottom line, I neither liked the naive heroine nor the slimy hero. The writing was incredibly cheesy and clichéd and didn't resonate with me at all. All the "in-your-face" descriptions felt way OTT and didn't help to make me feel invested in the story either. I don't know how to explain it but I felt the author just tried too hard. As always, less would have been more. This was just bad. Really, really bad. It goes without saying that the last line of the first novella made me insert an extra BIG eye-roll.
Not my cup of tea, that's for sure.
Will I keep on reading this series?
November 14, 2014
** 2,5 ** stars
I was not really impressed with this one... I don't know, I may have chosen a bad time to read it because I'm still under the impression of my last book, or I'm just getting tired of this serial formula, or I may be getting a little picky after some wonderful books I've recently read. I know, I know, the first part is usually the introduction to the story, so I shouldn't have expected too much, but I needed at least something to encourage me to read the next parts. Sadly, it didn't.
I felt like it's the same old story... Annalise, young and innocent ballet dancer goes to Rome with ballet company, where she meets gorgeous, hot and experienced Italian street dancer - Raphael. He invites her to a party and she goes, no matter she has just met him, no matter she doesn't know a thing about him, no matter he could be dangerous, no matter the rules and curfew at the company. There's insta lust, they kiss and grope, he wants to teach her "everything"... Sorry, I just couldn't connect with the story or charcters and I didn't feel their immediate connection. The heroine seemed naive and blinded by lust, I didn't care about hero at all. It wasn't bad though, it was just OK, nothing to woo me here.
So, yeah...whatever...
ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was not really impressed with this one... I don't know, I may have chosen a bad time to read it because I'm still under the impression of my last book, or I'm just getting tired of this serial formula, or I may be getting a little picky after some wonderful books I've recently read. I know, I know, the first part is usually the introduction to the story, so I shouldn't have expected too much, but I needed at least something to encourage me to read the next parts. Sadly, it didn't.
I felt like it's the same old story... Annalise, young and innocent ballet dancer goes to Rome with ballet company, where she meets gorgeous, hot and experienced Italian street dancer - Raphael. He invites her to a party and she goes, no matter she has just met him, no matter she doesn't know a thing about him, no matter he could be dangerous, no matter the rules and curfew at the company. There's insta lust, they kiss and grope, he wants to teach her "everything"... Sorry, I just couldn't connect with the story or charcters and I didn't feel their immediate connection. The heroine seemed naive and blinded by lust, I didn't care about hero at all. It wasn't bad though, it was just OK, nothing to woo me here.
So, yeah...whatever...
ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
December 10, 2014
FREE today on Amazon US (11/24/2014)
BLURB:
A man dances the same way he fucks. His stamina, his rhythm, the slow grind of his hips. Some people are born to it, others learn through years of careful study.
And dancers? We do it best of all.
The moment I saw her, I knew. Her innocence is intoxicating. My lust is fierce. Primal. To watch her dance is to know the torment of true temptation.
She will be mine.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P...
November 17, 2014
2.5 stars
I can't say I really liked this one. I wasn't impressed, I caught myself laughing, but not because it was funny, but because it was ridiculous.
I'm sorry If I sound too harsh, but this wasn't a book that I would suggest to people around my age. Maybe younger ones would like it better, I don't know. The writing was okay, I guess, but seriously while I was reading it, I was wondering how old is the author? Because the female protagonist was 19 & yet she was acting like she was 15.. Her expressions, her actions were childish & she was so innocent & naive & it was nothing like the blurb..
So, we have Raphael, an Italian street dancer. And we have Annalise, an American balley dancer who goes with a dancing company to Rome. She watches Raphael dancing on the street & BAM! Insta lust, insta everything! Her heart , her mind is immediately stolen. Raphael feels the same. Even though our girl is a virgin who hasn't dated boys & even the simple pleasure of an ice cream is forbidden & too much of a big deal!!
The moment he meets her , he invites her to a party later at that night & even though it could be dangerous going to a party all alone, to a place where a stranger simply invited you in a new city you don't even know, Annalise says yes & she goes. And not only that, but it could be risky because if the company would find out about her sneaking out, it could also send her back home & she could lose everything she was fighting for. Does she care? Apparently not!
I'm sorry but this book wasn't for me. I hope others enjoy it more, but I just wanted to punch Annalise in the face the whole time until the very end.
PS: I've heard though that the next one is better, but I'm not sure If I'm willing to torture myself. I may give it a chance in the future, but most likely not.
I can't say I really liked this one. I wasn't impressed, I caught myself laughing, but not because it was funny, but because it was ridiculous.
I'm sorry If I sound too harsh, but this wasn't a book that I would suggest to people around my age. Maybe younger ones would like it better, I don't know. The writing was okay, I guess, but seriously while I was reading it, I was wondering how old is the author? Because the female protagonist was 19 & yet she was acting like she was 15.. Her expressions, her actions were childish & she was so innocent & naive & it was nothing like the blurb..
So, we have Raphael, an Italian street dancer. And we have Annalise, an American balley dancer who goes with a dancing company to Rome. She watches Raphael dancing on the street & BAM! Insta lust, insta everything! Her heart , her mind is immediately stolen. Raphael feels the same. Even though our girl is a virgin who hasn't dated boys & even the simple pleasure of an ice cream is forbidden & too much of a big deal!!
The moment he meets her , he invites her to a party later at that night & even though it could be dangerous going to a party all alone, to a place where a stranger simply invited you in a new city you don't even know, Annalise says yes & she goes. And not only that, but it could be risky because if the company would find out about her sneaking out, it could also send her back home & she could lose everything she was fighting for. Does she care? Apparently not!
I'm sorry but this book wasn't for me. I hope others enjoy it more, but I just wanted to punch Annalise in the face the whole time until the very end.
PS: I've heard though that the next one is better, but I'm not sure If I'm willing to torture myself. I may give it a chance in the future, but most likely not.
October 23, 2014
Melody Grace has done it once again! She has managed to completely knock my socks off.
"We don't dance to be happy. We dance because we have to"
Many of you are probably familiar with a book that she put out last year called, With Every Heartbeat. Well, First Position is that same story, but now told in a serial format. Even though it is the same story, it has been completely revamped. Not only is the story a little sexier, but now we get some scenes from Raphael's POV.
If you are not familiar with the story, I will fill you in a little. This story follows Annalise and Raphael. Annalise's entire life has been focused on nothing but dance. She's always feeling pressure to be the very best. One day, an opportunity presents itself and she finds herself sent off to Rome. According to her mom, it's her final chance and she has to be the very best.....One of her first days in Rome, she finds herself exploring the city with her dance troupe. She is in complete awe of the city and slightly overwhelmed by it all. The last thing she expected to was find Raphael......
Raphael is a street dancer and completely captivates Annalise. She's never seen dancing like that before. And then the moment their eyes connect, it's all over.....
"His gaze crashes through me, setting every nerve and sense alight, as if I'm touchpaper and he's a molten spark, dancing through my bloodstream."
Raphael is desperate to know more about Annalise. There is just something about her...he just can't let her get away. Their connection is instant and undeniable. Even though Raphael, is the last thing that Annalise was expecting and will be a complete distraction, she's not ready to let him go either......
First Position is a very quick, sexy, exciting read. I enjoyed the angst and romance-two things that I love most about Melody Grace! Having already read With Every Heartbeat, I was excited to see all the changes made to the story. I was not disappointed one bit. I loved all the new additions and I really loved getting Raphael's POV. For me, it added so much to the story. I can't wait to read the next two installments!!
*An ARC was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review
You can see my full review here at:http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog...
"We don't dance to be happy. We dance because we have to"
Many of you are probably familiar with a book that she put out last year called, With Every Heartbeat. Well, First Position is that same story, but now told in a serial format. Even though it is the same story, it has been completely revamped. Not only is the story a little sexier, but now we get some scenes from Raphael's POV.
If you are not familiar with the story, I will fill you in a little. This story follows Annalise and Raphael. Annalise's entire life has been focused on nothing but dance. She's always feeling pressure to be the very best. One day, an opportunity presents itself and she finds herself sent off to Rome. According to her mom, it's her final chance and she has to be the very best.....One of her first days in Rome, she finds herself exploring the city with her dance troupe. She is in complete awe of the city and slightly overwhelmed by it all. The last thing she expected to was find Raphael......
Raphael is a street dancer and completely captivates Annalise. She's never seen dancing like that before. And then the moment their eyes connect, it's all over.....
"His gaze crashes through me, setting every nerve and sense alight, as if I'm touchpaper and he's a molten spark, dancing through my bloodstream."
Raphael is desperate to know more about Annalise. There is just something about her...he just can't let her get away. Their connection is instant and undeniable. Even though Raphael, is the last thing that Annalise was expecting and will be a complete distraction, she's not ready to let him go either......
First Position is a very quick, sexy, exciting read. I enjoyed the angst and romance-two things that I love most about Melody Grace! Having already read With Every Heartbeat, I was excited to see all the changes made to the story. I was not disappointed one bit. I loved all the new additions and I really loved getting Raphael's POV. For me, it added so much to the story. I can't wait to read the next two installments!!
*An ARC was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review
You can see my full review here at:http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog...
November 10, 2014
A promising start for a new series. Awkward and maybe not entirely accurate but fun nonetheless.
A love story based on the same passion, dance. A ballet dancer struggling for her mother's acceptance, rehearshing like her life depends on it, and a vibrant man, with a mysterious past, inhaling dance and exhaling sexual tension.
The story is taking place in Italy and specifically, Rome. It feels like an Audrey Hepburn movie and exudes sensuality and youthfulness.
But is also filled with dance.
Rome is a beautiful place and the absolutely stunning feeling the city carries in every part, was prominent in this book, but some minor details like a local woman calling di fontana di Trevi, "the fountain Trevi" made me skeptical about the book's accuracy. I observed it only because the heroine kept calling 'piazza' every city square and she was a New Yorker. It is just a detail, but it stuck in my head.
Anyway my pet pives are another story, now about Annalise and Raphael's story, which was very interesting in its premise and made me want to read the next book as soon as it gets released.
Ciao!
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- It has a darkish vibe, but i am not sure why..
- Their kiss was so hot.
- But i don't feel their chemistry.
- Her mother is the poster child for the uptight and bitchy.
- Double POV.
- Lucia, hmmm maybe she will be a threat later on.
- The ending from Raphael's Pov was exciting.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
A love story based on the same passion, dance. A ballet dancer struggling for her mother's acceptance, rehearshing like her life depends on it, and a vibrant man, with a mysterious past, inhaling dance and exhaling sexual tension.
The story is taking place in Italy and specifically, Rome. It feels like an Audrey Hepburn movie and exudes sensuality and youthfulness.
But is also filled with dance.
Rome is a beautiful place and the absolutely stunning feeling the city carries in every part, was prominent in this book, but some minor details like a local woman calling di fontana di Trevi, "the fountain Trevi" made me skeptical about the book's accuracy. I observed it only because the heroine kept calling 'piazza' every city square and she was a New Yorker. It is just a detail, but it stuck in my head.
Anyway my pet pives are another story, now about Annalise and Raphael's story, which was very interesting in its premise and made me want to read the next book as soon as it gets released.
Ciao!
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- It has a darkish vibe, but i am not sure why..
- Their kiss was so hot.
- But i don't feel their chemistry.
- Her mother is the poster child for the uptight and bitchy.
- Double POV.
- Lucia, hmmm maybe she will be a threat later on.
- The ending from Raphael's Pov was exciting.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
December 7, 2014
What, in the name of Asgard, did I just read?
I wanted to read a book with dancing on it and this one was in my TBR list so why not, right?
Well, just not.
This book didn't work for me for several reasons:
1. I couldn't get to know the characters at all. The only thing I was certainly sure of was that they had the hots for each other.
2. Those chapters were all over the place. Short and plain.
3. Even though I understand the physical attraction and all of that I cannot respect that sort of men. Raphael is abusive and Annalise's just dumb.
4. I didn't relate with anything.
I'm sorry If I'm being rude but I just feel like I wasted my time and I hate that feeling.
Was this an absolutely poor written fanfic? I don't know how this got published.
I just can't
I wanted to read a book with dancing on it and this one was in my TBR list so why not, right?
Well, just not.
This book didn't work for me for several reasons:
1. I couldn't get to know the characters at all. The only thing I was certainly sure of was that they had the hots for each other.
2. Those chapters were all over the place. Short and plain.
3. Even though I understand the physical attraction and all of that I cannot respect that sort of men. Raphael is abusive and Annalise's just dumb.
4. I didn't relate with anything.
I'm sorry If I'm being rude but I just feel like I wasted my time and I hate that feeling.
Was this an absolutely poor written fanfic? I don't know how this got published.
I just can't
January 12, 2015
Full Review on Brianna's Bookish Confessions.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review from the publisher. It does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Okay, first of all let me say, this book was FANTASTIC!
Annalise is a ballet dancer, she has always been one. Her mom was one also a very good dancer. Her mom has incredibly high expectations for Annalise. She is to go to Rome where she will audition for one of the biggest solos in her ballet career. The girls are on a tight schedule and don’t really get to spend time enjoying Rome and seeing all the sights. That is until she hears music playing and stumbles upon a group of dancers dancing a way she didn’t think was possible. She immediately notices Raphael, a blue eyed gorgeous guy.
Raphael is a Latin ballroom/contemporary dancer that is currently living in Rome. He, also like Annalise was burdened by the expectations of his parents. Only, he was to become a lawyer. He knew his passion was dance and not business, so he packed his things and moved to Rome pursuing something he loves. But then he notices Annalise standing in the crowd while he’s performing and is dying to get to know her.
WOW guys, I was completely blown away by this book! I REALLY enjoyed this book! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that deals with dance before.. But wow oh wow. Especially something as steamy and seductive as this!
“A woman dances the same way she fucks. Soft and self-conscious; lithe and graceful. Or wild. Passionate. Unleashed…. And dancers? We fuck best of all.” — First Position, Melody Grace
I’ve always loved dancing, but was never good at it. Seriously, if my life depended on being able to dance gracefully and not looking completely dumb doing so, I’d probably die… I’m that bad. Melody Grace’s writing style is very unique and definitely an amazing new adult author! Annalise and Raphael have only kissed and wow, can she write a steamy scene JUST FOR KISSING!!!
I loved the scenes between Annalise and Raphael, but that ending was frustrating and I need more! I’m wondering what is going to happen next! As the reader, I was immediately drawn into the story and all the sights of Rome. I’ve always wanted to travel outside the United States, and especially somewhere like Rome! So having this set in Rome, made it feel like I was there.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review from the publisher. It does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Okay, first of all let me say, this book was FANTASTIC!
Annalise is a ballet dancer, she has always been one. Her mom was one also a very good dancer. Her mom has incredibly high expectations for Annalise. She is to go to Rome where she will audition for one of the biggest solos in her ballet career. The girls are on a tight schedule and don’t really get to spend time enjoying Rome and seeing all the sights. That is until she hears music playing and stumbles upon a group of dancers dancing a way she didn’t think was possible. She immediately notices Raphael, a blue eyed gorgeous guy.
Raphael is a Latin ballroom/contemporary dancer that is currently living in Rome. He, also like Annalise was burdened by the expectations of his parents. Only, he was to become a lawyer. He knew his passion was dance and not business, so he packed his things and moved to Rome pursuing something he loves. But then he notices Annalise standing in the crowd while he’s performing and is dying to get to know her.
WOW guys, I was completely blown away by this book! I REALLY enjoyed this book! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that deals with dance before.. But wow oh wow. Especially something as steamy and seductive as this!
“A woman dances the same way she fucks. Soft and self-conscious; lithe and graceful. Or wild. Passionate. Unleashed…. And dancers? We fuck best of all.” — First Position, Melody Grace
I’ve always loved dancing, but was never good at it. Seriously, if my life depended on being able to dance gracefully and not looking completely dumb doing so, I’d probably die… I’m that bad. Melody Grace’s writing style is very unique and definitely an amazing new adult author! Annalise and Raphael have only kissed and wow, can she write a steamy scene JUST FOR KISSING!!!
I loved the scenes between Annalise and Raphael, but that ending was frustrating and I need more! I’m wondering what is going to happen next! As the reader, I was immediately drawn into the story and all the sights of Rome. I’ve always wanted to travel outside the United States, and especially somewhere like Rome! So having this set in Rome, made it feel like I was there.
October 30, 2014
First Position is just too short for me to rate it more than three stars. I didn't have the time to connect with the characters but it left me really curious. I was also a little disappointed by how it ended but the story was interesting and now I'm left wanting more.
I like the concept and the scenery in Rome. I really enjoyed when Raphael and Annalise were together. There wasn't enough of his "lessons" he had planned for her but I hope we'll get them later. There were only a few moments where their attraction for each other was obvious, before she always had to ran away because of her curfew. It was getting a little frustrating and I hope we'll get past that in the future.I'm curious as to how she'll perform for her audition and if she'll have to go back home or not but if I'm honest I'd rather read more about Raphael and Annalise and less about her ballet company.
A good start for the series.
***I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange of an honest review***
I like the concept and the scenery in Rome. I really enjoyed when Raphael and Annalise were together. There wasn't enough of his "lessons" he had planned for her but I hope we'll get them later. There were only a few moments where their attraction for each other was obvious, before she always had to ran away because of her curfew. It was getting a little frustrating and I hope we'll get past that in the future.I'm curious as to how she'll perform for her audition and if she'll have to go back home or not but if I'm honest I'd rather read more about Raphael and Annalise and less about her ballet company.
A good start for the series.
***I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange of an honest review***
November 7, 2014
Nope. Can't do it. Didn't even make it past the first chapter and the phrase "danced an arabesque" came up. If your ballet knowledge is that dismal, you have no business writing about it. Either do the proper research to understand it well enough or change your story. FAR too often I come across authors who think ballerinas can bring about a beautiful and passionate story, and that they can just throw in a few ballet terms and be fine. Stop it. As someone who danced for a very long time it ruins the entire story when you describe something that is so far from accurate that it is painful to read.
November 30, 2014
This was like every dance movie rolled into one. And I am a huge fan of dance movies. Except Strictly Ballroom, because that shit was weird. But Center Stage? Yup. Step Up? Yup. Step Up 4? YUUUUP. I have seen them all, my friends. And reading this was like reading one of those movies, so of course I loved it.
I am only giving it 4 stars, tho, because for some reason I wasn't into the romance. I think it's more of my current mental mindset because I looooved the dancing stuff and was all YEAH HE'S HOT GOT THAT BUT GO TALK ABOUT JETES SOME MORE.
So yeah, I think it's just me because that is clearly not logical. :D
I am only giving it 4 stars, tho, because for some reason I wasn't into the romance. I think it's more of my current mental mindset because I looooved the dancing stuff and was all YEAH HE'S HOT GOT THAT BUT GO TALK ABOUT JETES SOME MORE.
So yeah, I think it's just me because that is clearly not logical. :D
Want to read
December 17, 2014FREE TODAY 12-17-14 on Amazon
U.S. Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B00P9F8NFU
U.S. Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B00P9F8NFU
January 19, 2018
2.5 stars.
I love Melody Grace's Beachwood Bay series. I binge read the series over a few days time, and couldn't get enough. Therefore I decided to check out some of her other works. The synopsis for First Position hooked me immediately, so I decided to pick it up. Unfortunately, after reading it, I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected to.
Usually I love serials. They're one of my favorite things to read. That's why I was shocked when I didn't really like First Position. There were certain things that happened that were way too convenient to be anything other than a device to further the plot along. Otherwise, they made no sense why it happened at the time it did. It made everything seem so cliche. The book also was really boring. Nothing happened until the last ten percent or so. However, when something did happen I did like the direction it was taking. What happened at the last couple of pages really made me want more. It felt like instead of being a serial, this should have combined the first two books together, and been a full-length novel.
Even though I found First Position disappointing, I will continue with the series. Something major happened towards the end of the book, and I really want to see how Annalise overcomes it, or if she ends up giving up her hopes and dreams to do something different. I hope there is more excitement in the next book in the series, Second Position.
I love Melody Grace's Beachwood Bay series. I binge read the series over a few days time, and couldn't get enough. Therefore I decided to check out some of her other works. The synopsis for First Position hooked me immediately, so I decided to pick it up. Unfortunately, after reading it, I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected to.
Usually I love serials. They're one of my favorite things to read. That's why I was shocked when I didn't really like First Position. There were certain things that happened that were way too convenient to be anything other than a device to further the plot along. Otherwise, they made no sense why it happened at the time it did. It made everything seem so cliche. The book also was really boring. Nothing happened until the last ten percent or so. However, when something did happen I did like the direction it was taking. What happened at the last couple of pages really made me want more. It felt like instead of being a serial, this should have combined the first two books together, and been a full-length novel.
Even though I found First Position disappointing, I will continue with the series. Something major happened towards the end of the book, and I really want to see how Annalise overcomes it, or if she ends up giving up her hopes and dreams to do something different. I hope there is more excitement in the next book in the series, Second Position.
October 22, 2014
Woo Hoo!!! Another great book by Melody Grace. First Position and the Dirty Dancing series is a retelling of another book by Melody called With Every Heartbeat. I’ve already read With Every Heartbeat and loved it, so I was super excited when I found out she had revamped the book and turned it into a three part series. For those who have read With Every Heartbeat you’ll be excited to know we now get a few chapters from leading man Raphael’s pov and the story has gotten a lot steamier!! Even though I was already familiar with the story, I really enjoyed the new additions and the extra hotness.
First Position is about American ballet dancer Annalise Taylor. Annalise has come to Rome with a traveling ballet company, she is there to prove that she can be the best ballerina and also prove that to her superstar ballerina mother. What she wasn’t expecting was to meet local street dancer Raphael. From the moment their eyes meet there is an instant connection. Annalise isn’t only extremely attracted to him, but she is also intrigued by him. Raphael starts to open her eyes and mind to things Annalise never dreamed of.
Even though I already know how the story is going to play out I can’t wait for Second Position out November 12th. I was completely sucked in again to the story and the characters and wasn’t ready for it to be over yet. I really think this series has a little bit of something for everyone, blooming romance in the Italian city of Rome, passionate dance, humor and acceptance.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
First Position is about American ballet dancer Annalise Taylor. Annalise has come to Rome with a traveling ballet company, she is there to prove that she can be the best ballerina and also prove that to her superstar ballerina mother. What she wasn’t expecting was to meet local street dancer Raphael. From the moment their eyes meet there is an instant connection. Annalise isn’t only extremely attracted to him, but she is also intrigued by him. Raphael starts to open her eyes and mind to things Annalise never dreamed of.
Even though I already know how the story is going to play out I can’t wait for Second Position out November 12th. I was completely sucked in again to the story and the characters and wasn’t ready for it to be over yet. I really think this series has a little bit of something for everyone, blooming romance in the Italian city of Rome, passionate dance, humor and acceptance.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
December 5, 2014
**I received an ARC through Netgalley courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately I thought it just came off as cheesy.
Annalise is a ballerina with an overbearing stage mother and she's on her last chance to get out of the corps for a principal position. But a trip to Rome with the academy where she meets a sexy, street dancer named Raphael has her questioning whether she really wants this. She just doesn't love it like she used to, but she doesn't want to disappoint her mother.
The few times Annalise gets to see Raphael, she realizes the life she's missing out on. Ballet has been everything for so long.
While I appreciated him showing Annalise his view of Rome, what little he could with their limited time, by the end Raphael was declaring Annalise to be the most precious thing to him. Really? That's cuckoo. They've probably only spent a total of two hours together. It was just bizarre.
First Position is part one of a serial. The other installments are to be released in quick succession. This installment is already filled with every cliché from the dancing world. From eating disorders to the bitchy arch nemesis. I already feel like I can predict the plot to a T.
Skip this and watch the movie Centerstage instead. Annalise is Maureen with a little bit of Jody.
I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately I thought it just came off as cheesy.
Annalise is a ballerina with an overbearing stage mother and she's on her last chance to get out of the corps for a principal position. But a trip to Rome with the academy where she meets a sexy, street dancer named Raphael has her questioning whether she really wants this. She just doesn't love it like she used to, but she doesn't want to disappoint her mother.
The few times Annalise gets to see Raphael, she realizes the life she's missing out on. Ballet has been everything for so long.
While I appreciated him showing Annalise his view of Rome, what little he could with their limited time, by the end Raphael was declaring Annalise to be the most precious thing to him. Really? That's cuckoo. They've probably only spent a total of two hours together. It was just bizarre.
First Position is part one of a serial. The other installments are to be released in quick succession. This installment is already filled with every cliché from the dancing world. From eating disorders to the bitchy arch nemesis. I already feel like I can predict the plot to a T.
Skip this and watch the movie Centerstage instead. Annalise is Maureen with a little bit of Jody.
November 5, 2014
Annalise is a dancer who goes to Rome competing for a position with her ballet academy. Like all dancers, she is under a ton of pressure to preform well. While out one day, she watches a street dance and is immediately drawn to the sexy male dancer when they make eye contact. There is immediate hot chemistry between Annalise and Raphael and I can't wait to see where this story is going to go. With all serials, this first installment left me wanting so much more. I need to know what's going to happen. I really like this story so far and can't wait to see what's going to happen next!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Read
December 4, 2014***4.5 "Bellissima" Stars!***
What an enjoyable little read this is! Short and sweet, but not without heat - I was pleasantly surprised by the eroticism in this story. Good girl Annalise is appropriately neurotic for a sheltered ballerina while still being completely likable. The pressure from her mother feels very real, as does her powerful attraction to the gorgeous, sexy Raphael.
Melody Grace's writing is lush and taut throughout. I'll definitely be reading the next installments of this steamy little story!
What an enjoyable little read this is! Short and sweet, but not without heat - I was pleasantly surprised by the eroticism in this story. Good girl Annalise is appropriately neurotic for a sheltered ballerina while still being completely likable. The pressure from her mother feels very real, as does her powerful attraction to the gorgeous, sexy Raphael.
Melody Grace's writing is lush and taut throughout. I'll definitely be reading the next installments of this steamy little story!
June 6, 2016
This is a cliff hanger.
November 7, 2014
Overall Rating: 4 Rockin’ ★★★★
First Position Dirty Dancing #1, is a cliffhanger serial written by Melody Grace, describing a young woman's timid introduction to independence and sensuality. Annalise is constantly reminded of her mother's dancing greatness by none other than her mother. She is oppressed by her mother and constantly makes to feel not good enough. Annalise pours her heart and soul into her dance but she can't live up to her mother's expectations. Her mother pulls some strings in a last ditch effort to live vicariously through her daughter and Annalise is assigned to a European dance tour.
Annalise is excited to be out from under the oppressive scrutiny of her mother even though she still has Mademoiselle to deal with. While exploring Rome with her dance group, Annalise is pulled away by beautiful music that she can hear down the street. Here she comes in contact with Raphael. His passion is displayed through his dance. He mesmerizes her and pulls her into his world promising to teach her how to freelance dance by igniting her sensuality and passion.
The pros used to describe their waltz are breathtaking and erotic. Although they don't have sex they have mind blowing floor play that leaves you wanting, trying to catch your breath, and craving more. Annalise is innocent and Raphael's initial desire is to instruct her in the fine arts of lovemaking.
Hero: 4 stars
Heroine: 4. stars
Plot: 4 stars
Steam Level: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
Would I recommend this book: Yes. This is a sexy romance that is told with the erotic movement of dance. It is sensual and at the same time filled with innocent awaking.
Would I recommend this author: Yes. I will definitely read the sequel to see how their dance progresses and to bear witness to the searing passion they have awakened.
First Position
Melody Grace
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
First Position Dirty Dancing #1, is a cliffhanger serial written by Melody Grace, describing a young woman's timid introduction to independence and sensuality. Annalise is constantly reminded of her mother's dancing greatness by none other than her mother. She is oppressed by her mother and constantly makes to feel not good enough. Annalise pours her heart and soul into her dance but she can't live up to her mother's expectations. Her mother pulls some strings in a last ditch effort to live vicariously through her daughter and Annalise is assigned to a European dance tour.
Annalise is excited to be out from under the oppressive scrutiny of her mother even though she still has Mademoiselle to deal with. While exploring Rome with her dance group, Annalise is pulled away by beautiful music that she can hear down the street. Here she comes in contact with Raphael. His passion is displayed through his dance. He mesmerizes her and pulls her into his world promising to teach her how to freelance dance by igniting her sensuality and passion.
The pros used to describe their waltz are breathtaking and erotic. Although they don't have sex they have mind blowing floor play that leaves you wanting, trying to catch your breath, and craving more. Annalise is innocent and Raphael's initial desire is to instruct her in the fine arts of lovemaking.
Hero: 4 stars
Heroine: 4. stars
Plot: 4 stars
Steam Level: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
Would I recommend this book: Yes. This is a sexy romance that is told with the erotic movement of dance. It is sensual and at the same time filled with innocent awaking.
Would I recommend this author: Yes. I will definitely read the sequel to see how their dance progresses and to bear witness to the searing passion they have awakened.
First Position
Melody Grace
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
November 5, 2014
Favorite Quotes:
“My head spins. How does it feel like I’ve known him forever, when it’s been no time at all?”
“It’s the most erotic moment of my life. We’re in the middle of the park, in broad daylight, fully-clothed, but somehow I feel like we’re naked as I slowly lick my tongue against the rough skin of his finger, sucking every taste of velvety chocolate gelato clean.”
My Review:
With the main character being 19 years old, I had mixed feelings starting this series. But with Melody Grace – how could I go wrong? The story is written from dual POV, but is mainly narrated by a young girl, pushed and pressured to be perfect by a relentless former dancer and current stage mother from the depths of hell. Juxtaposed against the story of the same virginal young woman/girl, yearning with the all consuming passion and obsession of meeting her first love while dueling with her conflicting obsession of being a prima ballerina. It squeezes my heart when she details her mother’s snide comments and use of a food scale and strict diet regime that began prior to puberty. Not to mention her resulting body issues, frequent aches and pains, constant pressure, sacrifices, and the damaged self-image from constantly striving to please said mother, but never measuring up. This is only the first of three, and I know it is setting the stage for the story - but I am seriously hoping and praying the tone lightens, and that she finds her inner rebel and has some steamy Italian love scenes in her near future.
“My head spins. How does it feel like I’ve known him forever, when it’s been no time at all?”
“It’s the most erotic moment of my life. We’re in the middle of the park, in broad daylight, fully-clothed, but somehow I feel like we’re naked as I slowly lick my tongue against the rough skin of his finger, sucking every taste of velvety chocolate gelato clean.”
My Review:
With the main character being 19 years old, I had mixed feelings starting this series. But with Melody Grace – how could I go wrong? The story is written from dual POV, but is mainly narrated by a young girl, pushed and pressured to be perfect by a relentless former dancer and current stage mother from the depths of hell. Juxtaposed against the story of the same virginal young woman/girl, yearning with the all consuming passion and obsession of meeting her first love while dueling with her conflicting obsession of being a prima ballerina. It squeezes my heart when she details her mother’s snide comments and use of a food scale and strict diet regime that began prior to puberty. Not to mention her resulting body issues, frequent aches and pains, constant pressure, sacrifices, and the damaged self-image from constantly striving to please said mother, but never measuring up. This is only the first of three, and I know it is setting the stage for the story - but I am seriously hoping and praying the tone lightens, and that she finds her inner rebel and has some steamy Italian love scenes in her near future.
November 3, 2014
Raphael had me with his first sentence:
"A woman dances the way she f*cks"
And from there, he had my whole undivided attention.
Raphael catches the attention of Annalise – a young, innocent, naive ballet dance student. Raphael is enraptured by Annalise's beauty as well as her innocence and has decided that she. will. be. his.
Even though this is a short story there is a lot of emotion put into it and the scenes between Raphael and Annalise are steamy and had me fanning myself and my Kindle!! Oh, the ending had me yelling, no wait, it can't end like that!! Arghhhhh, Ms Grace I NEED book two ASAP!!! ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful Hot Stars
~~~
Oooh baby, I can't wait for more of this new serial from Melody Grace. I burned through this sweet, quick read in less than an hour, which made it the perfect book to curl up on the couch with on a cold afternoon.
Dancers have perfected the dance of love. When Raphael sees Annalise, he knows; together they'll burn. Now, he's determined to make her his....
First Position was a tantalizing beginning, one that oozed sex appeal and potential, and one that ended with enough of a cliffhanger to make me want more, but not enough to make angry.... Make sense? Simply put, I can't wait for more from these dirty dancers.
First Position is the first book in the Dirty Dancing serial. There's a cliffhanger, but not a long wait for the next book. ~ Beth, 4 stars.
"A woman dances the way she f*cks"
And from there, he had my whole undivided attention.
Raphael catches the attention of Annalise – a young, innocent, naive ballet dance student. Raphael is enraptured by Annalise's beauty as well as her innocence and has decided that she. will. be. his.
Even though this is a short story there is a lot of emotion put into it and the scenes between Raphael and Annalise are steamy and had me fanning myself and my Kindle!! Oh, the ending had me yelling, no wait, it can't end like that!! Arghhhhh, Ms Grace I NEED book two ASAP!!! ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful Hot Stars
~~~
Oooh baby, I can't wait for more of this new serial from Melody Grace. I burned through this sweet, quick read in less than an hour, which made it the perfect book to curl up on the couch with on a cold afternoon.
Dancers have perfected the dance of love. When Raphael sees Annalise, he knows; together they'll burn. Now, he's determined to make her his....
First Position was a tantalizing beginning, one that oozed sex appeal and potential, and one that ended with enough of a cliffhanger to make me want more, but not enough to make angry.... Make sense? Simply put, I can't wait for more from these dirty dancers.
First Position is the first book in the Dirty Dancing serial. There's a cliffhanger, but not a long wait for the next book. ~ Beth, 4 stars.
November 26, 2014
3 - 3.5 stars
Annalise is nineteen and dancing for her life while in Rome, trying to secure her dream role of lead dancer in Swan Lake. She has lived her whole life for this moment, her mother grooming her for the spotlight, never letting anything intrude on Annalise's training, to the point where Annalise is rather naive and inexperienced when it comes to men. When she happens upon a troupe of dancers in a local street in Rome, she is captivated by them, particularly Raphael, one of the male dancers. When their eyes meet across the crowded piazza, Annalise is spellbound and she ends up putting all her hard work at risk when she embarks on a quest to get to know Raphael.
Raphael oozes Italian sensuality and sex appeal. He lives and breathes the rhythm of the music through dance, and I easily pictured him entrancing his audience with his movements. He is just as captivated by Annalise and I could feel the attraction and lust between them. The chemistry between these characters was palpable.
First Position is the beginning of a serial, a quick read, and I thought the author did a great job of setting the scene for what is to come. The risks Annalise is taking, the raw need and lust between the two characters, and the implications of their relationship have been nicely set up for book two.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the author/publisher
Annalise is nineteen and dancing for her life while in Rome, trying to secure her dream role of lead dancer in Swan Lake. She has lived her whole life for this moment, her mother grooming her for the spotlight, never letting anything intrude on Annalise's training, to the point where Annalise is rather naive and inexperienced when it comes to men. When she happens upon a troupe of dancers in a local street in Rome, she is captivated by them, particularly Raphael, one of the male dancers. When their eyes meet across the crowded piazza, Annalise is spellbound and she ends up putting all her hard work at risk when she embarks on a quest to get to know Raphael.
Raphael oozes Italian sensuality and sex appeal. He lives and breathes the rhythm of the music through dance, and I easily pictured him entrancing his audience with his movements. He is just as captivated by Annalise and I could feel the attraction and lust between them. The chemistry between these characters was palpable.
First Position is the beginning of a serial, a quick read, and I thought the author did a great job of setting the scene for what is to come. The risks Annalise is taking, the raw need and lust between the two characters, and the implications of their relationship have been nicely set up for book two.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the author/publisher
November 20, 2014
Italian hotness!!!
Can we say hot!!! First Position is sensually charged. I absolutely loved the quick paced dance with words. Melody Grace did a fabulous job of instantly setting the stage and drawing us into the performance.
The chemistry between the characters was definitely electric and I liked the forbidden aspect of it. Raphael and Annalise are the ideal of opposites attract. His uninhibited sensuality and her almost naive closed off attitude are a perfect pairing as the two dance their way through seduction, lust and need. Raphael is all sorts of Italian hotness. While reading First Position, I could picture him in perfect fitting clothes and the smoothest voice (like silk and wine) and Annalise, I could see trying to remain in the mold but desperately wanting out too. And taking place in Italy-- it can't get more sexy and romantic than that. Melody Grace assaults all your senses when reading this hot little number.
Because this part of a serial, the story is quick paced and easy to read. it's packed full of story and when you get to the end, you definitely want more. I can't wait to see where Raphael and Annalise go from here, especially from where this story left off. Definitely one click this one.
D 4/5
Can we say hot!!! First Position is sensually charged. I absolutely loved the quick paced dance with words. Melody Grace did a fabulous job of instantly setting the stage and drawing us into the performance.
The chemistry between the characters was definitely electric and I liked the forbidden aspect of it. Raphael and Annalise are the ideal of opposites attract. His uninhibited sensuality and her almost naive closed off attitude are a perfect pairing as the two dance their way through seduction, lust and need. Raphael is all sorts of Italian hotness. While reading First Position, I could picture him in perfect fitting clothes and the smoothest voice (like silk and wine) and Annalise, I could see trying to remain in the mold but desperately wanting out too. And taking place in Italy-- it can't get more sexy and romantic than that. Melody Grace assaults all your senses when reading this hot little number.
Because this part of a serial, the story is quick paced and easy to read. it's packed full of story and when you get to the end, you definitely want more. I can't wait to see where Raphael and Annalise go from here, especially from where this story left off. Definitely one click this one.
D 4/5
October 30, 2014
Moldy Grace has done it again. Another hit! This time, it is not beaches that will win you over, but Italy and dancing.
Annalise Taylor is an American ballet dancer, who is now studying dance in Rome, Italy. This is her "last chance" to make it as a dancer. Annalise is trying to make her mother proud and be the best. Her mom was a famous dancer and is pushing for the same for her daughter. I sense that Annalise does not have the same dreams as her mom does for her.
While sightseeing in Rome, Annalise meets a local street dancer named Raphael. She is memorized by his dancing and good looks. When their eyes meet, something sparks. Raphael asks Annalise to meet him at a local party that night. Annalise is under a VERY tight schedule set by the dance school and teacher. In her heart she knows she shouldn't sneak out. Her heart is also telling her she HAS to see Raphael. In my head I was screaming "Go see him!! you are 19 have some fun!!! He could be THE one!!"
And then the unimaginable happens when Annalise tries to sneak back in after spending time with Raphael. Her dance career could be over... but we will have to wait for the next installment to find out!!
Annalise Taylor is an American ballet dancer, who is now studying dance in Rome, Italy. This is her "last chance" to make it as a dancer. Annalise is trying to make her mother proud and be the best. Her mom was a famous dancer and is pushing for the same for her daughter. I sense that Annalise does not have the same dreams as her mom does for her.
While sightseeing in Rome, Annalise meets a local street dancer named Raphael. She is memorized by his dancing and good looks. When their eyes meet, something sparks. Raphael asks Annalise to meet him at a local party that night. Annalise is under a VERY tight schedule set by the dance school and teacher. In her heart she knows she shouldn't sneak out. Her heart is also telling her she HAS to see Raphael. In my head I was screaming "Go see him!! you are 19 have some fun!!! He could be THE one!!"
And then the unimaginable happens when Annalise tries to sneak back in after spending time with Raphael. Her dance career could be over... but we will have to wait for the next installment to find out!!
October 22, 2014
Who hasn't had a holiday fling. This is a sweet story about a shy, young ballet dancer from the states falling hard for a gorgeous Italian street dancer in Rome. Annalise and Raphael's attraction to each other is unmistakable. She can not afford to be distracted from her goal of getting awarded a solo part but at the same time can't keep from seeing him. They meet in secret on a couple occasions and their want for each other is undeniable. Almost getting caught trying to flee something happens that could have her dreams come crashing down. Another great book by Melody. Looking forward to the continuation
November 5, 2014
First Position by Melody Grace pulled me right in. Annalise is a beautiful ballet dancer who can't seem to live up to her mother's expectations to be the perfect dancer like she was. Annalise was invited to go to Rome with the American Ballet Company. This is her chance to make her mother proud. While on a quick tour of the city she sees a man that sets her heart on fire. She's never had time for guys, so this is new to her. Raphael is a street dancer. While performing, he looks up into the eyes of a beautiful stranger. Chemistry brings them together causing Annalise to risk what she's worked so hard for. Can she push him away or is it too late? I can't wait to see what happens next!
November 4, 2014
3.5 Stars
Annalise is in Rome with her dance company. She sees a man one who she cannot stop staring at. This man, Raphael asks her to meet him later at a party and with a kiss he touches her like no one has ever before. She has never seen a man dance like he had. She is taken with his moves, his motions.
This was a quick read. We meet Annalise and her life as a dancer. Then we get glimpses of Raphael. This was a nice read. The author did a nice job developing a connection in this short read.
The sequel Second Position come out November 12, 2014.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Annalise is in Rome with her dance company. She sees a man one who she cannot stop staring at. This man, Raphael asks her to meet him later at a party and with a kiss he touches her like no one has ever before. She has never seen a man dance like he had. She is taken with his moves, his motions.
This was a quick read. We meet Annalise and her life as a dancer. Then we get glimpses of Raphael. This was a nice read. The author did a nice job developing a connection in this short read.
The sequel Second Position come out November 12, 2014.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2014
So I had the pleasure of getting a ARC of this book and it did not disappoint at all. Also I have to say that Hazelnut/Pistachio combo is my FAV gelato so of course I think me and Raphael are soul mates.....lol. I don't think I can wait till the next book to find out what happens I feel like (with out spoiling it for those who have not read it yet) what happened to Annalise at the end might just be the best thing to happen to her. I mean this book has it all HOT Italian guy + Gelato= All you need in life. #DirtyDancing
So excited to see whats to come
So excited to see whats to come
Want to read
October 27, 2014This was one hot little book I was given this book to read, no strings attached. I did not have to review it, but I have to. I'm new to books by Melody Grace but have not read anything yet that I have not liked. She has a way with the written word. I loved how dedicated Annalise is to her craft. And that instantaneous connection between her and Raphael is wonderus. To be so drawn to someone it can only lead to love. I can not wait to read the next installment. I see this is a rewrite of another book but I'll wait to read it once I finish this series.
December 5, 2014
This book was so full of clichès that I'm glad it wasn't a long book.
The characters were supposed to be hot and passionate, but they were immature and stupid. They were head over heals for each other after only one single look.
The characters "sounded" like they weren't even talking to each other, but as if they were reading some cheesy screenplay aloud. I rolled my eyes so much I was afraid they will stay that way permanently.
Will I continue the series?
No, thank you.
The characters were supposed to be hot and passionate, but they were immature and stupid. They were head over heals for each other after only one single look.
The characters "sounded" like they weren't even talking to each other, but as if they were reading some cheesy screenplay aloud. I rolled my eyes so much I was afraid they will stay that way permanently.
Will I continue the series?
No, thank you.
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