After a two year long hiatus Nico reenters the dance scene with the London Ballet Company, much to the chagrin of his rival and star of the LBC, Felix. Felix is determined to keep his status as the top ballerino and to not let Nico get too comfortable at the company. As they are forced to spend time together training for the potential roles of their lives, they forge a connection that only mutual respect, dedication, and sizzling chemistry can create. 

Nico and Felix are so well written that I immediately fell in love with both of them. Nico is an absolute sweetheart. He's a strong, silent type who has spent his dance career being manufactured for perfection. Once freed from his past, he steps back to reevaluate and figure out what he wants for the future. The one absolute in his life has always been his feelings for Felix. For years he has marveled at his bright personality and natural talent. His admiration for Felix brings him out of his retirement for just the chance to dance and be close to him. Nico is perfect for Felix in that he loves him for who he is and never wants to change him or try to put him in a box. He's protective of Felix's sunshine and wants to lift him to new heights and support him to be the best while being the steady rock Felix can always depend on. 

I adored Felix. He's strong willed with an unapologetic attitude but extremely loyal and caring to those in his circle. He has his own baggage losing his mom and suffering his uncaring father, but has done his best to create his own happiness. After a lifelong grudge against Nico and living in the shadow of his career, he doesn't know what to make of him when Nico turns out to be nothing like he expected. He's defenseless against his changing feelings for the stoic, patient man and the searing chemistry between them. Felix is a romantic at heart and once he realizes his feelings, he makes Nico feel more loved and belonged than he ever has. 

One of the reasons I loved Felix was even though he's sassy and dramatic, he's also mature and a good hearted person. This is best shown in his friendships and his relationship with Christian. Now I'll be honest and say Christian wasn't my favorite - but only because he was with Felix in a way that I wanted Nico to be. Their whole situation was so adult and refreshing to read (even if I was ready for him to get out of the picture ASAP). There was no jealousy, no pettiness, just men who wanted the same thing for a time and are ready to move on when they need to. 

It's always a joy to read a fun and unique setting. I don't think I've ever read a dance/ballet romance and for someone like me, who doesn't have an extensive ballet knowledge, it was the perfect amount. I was able to follow along and appreciate their dedication to their careers. And now I'm absolutely trying to manifest an Achilles/Patroclus ballet. 

This story was such a happy and comforting read. It's full of swoony romance, quick witted banter, sass, and sweetness. There's some angst and drama but it balances out with how charming Felix and Nico are. As always with Scarlett Drake I'm left wanting to read more, not because the book needs it but because I enjoy the story and characters so much. I'm already looking forward to a reread when the audiobook comes out! 

Read if you like: 

• rivals to lovers 

• ballet romance 

• opposites attract 

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