A review by alexklinect
The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron

emotional reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I liked this historical fiction story and appreciated the redemptive nature. However, the characters' emotions seemed too over the top and almost cringey at a few points. There was more romance than I was expecting, although it was nice and clean (no spicy scenes). There wasn't much variety in the romance scenes; for example, every male character "raked his hands through his hair" and "tucked a lock of her hair behind her ears." It was also difficult for me to follow multiple characters through multiple time periods and places. I think the transitions were not very well done. And I'm still confused about

the character of Anton and what was his relationship with Julia was supposed to be

, and the ending did not answer any questions for me about that. This book definitely had potential but it left me wanting more clarity.
3-3.5 stars