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Prima Donna
Prima Donna is an excitingly glamorous novel from Karen Swan, author of the bestselling Christmas at Tiffany's.Breaking the rules was what she liked best. That was her sport. Renegade, rebel, bad girl. Getting away with it. Pia Soto is the sexy and glamorous prima ballerina, the Brazilian bombshell who's shaking up the ballet world with her outrageous behaviour. She's wild and precocious, and she's a survivor. She's determined that no man will ever control her destiny. But ruthless financier Will Silk has Pia in his sights, and has other ideas . . . Sophie O'Farrell is Pia's hapless, gawky assistant, the girl-next-door to Pia's Prima Donna, always either falling in love with the wrong man or just falling over. Sophie sets her own dreams aside to pick up the debris in Pia's wake, but she's no angel. When a devastating accident threatens to cut short Pia's illustrious career, Sophie has to step out of the shadows and face up to the demons in her own life.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
122 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
About the author
Karen Swan
61 books2,388 followersKaren Swan began her career in fashion journalism before giving it all up to raise her three children and a puppy, and to pursue her ambition of becoming a writer. She lives in the forest in Sussex, writing her books in a treehouse overlooking the Downs. Her books include Christmas at Tiffany's, Summer at Tiffany's, The Perfect Present, Christmas in the Snow, The Summer Without You, The Paris Secret, and Christmas Under the Stars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 5, 2016
About 50 pages in, I realized the story sounded so familiar because I had already read this book before I started Goodreads and so I never wrote a review. The details are a bit vague and that's why it took me so long to realize it. But from what I do remember it wasn't interesting or good enough to merit slogging through it again.
July 26, 2014
I don’t think I can ever give any of Karen Swan’s books a rating of less than 5 stars. :)
I love reading her stories. They always have everything I need and want in contemporary novels.
Pia Soto is the sexy and glamorous prima ballerina. She’s wild and precocious, and she’s a survivor. Sophie O’Farrell is Pia’s hapless, gawky assistant, always falling in love with the wrong man or just falling over. When a devastating accident threatens to cut short Pia’s illustrious career, Sophie has to step out of her shadows and face up to the demons in her own life.
Two heroines, each with their own stories and struggles. It’s hard not to like heroines who are arrogant or uncaring on the outside, but are actually vulnerable and struggling on the inside. And this is a cliché, sort of. And from clichés, Karen writes stories that are different from the norm (of the contemporary literary world), but reflective of the “real world”. We all think of war and poverty as one the major things that give man heartache (and they are, and they do). But we also forget that the mere calling of names, putting down people, lying and cheating (!!) are equally heartbreaking and saddening. KS weaves a story out of this “miseries”, that speaks to the reader (even if you haven’t been directly involved in one). It didn’t feel like a made-up story, where you just proceed to the next page to know how it was resolved. It was like being part of the story itself, experiencing everything the characters were feeling.
Karen Swan is ruthless. On her characters. She doesn’t hesitate on punishing her characters when they misbehaved. This is not a fairy tale, where the heroines are being maltreated because they are… the heroes of the book. But with KS’s stories, the heroines are being “punished” because they did something wrong. It seems trivial, but it’s helpful to be reminded that just because you’re the lead in your life story, it doesn’t mean that when something bad happened to you, it was because someone did something bad to you.
I love this! Sometimes, I wish there was a “super fan” function here on Goodreads. There are some authors who I’m a fan of because I want to be updated with their works, etc. But there are some (like Karen Swan), who doesn’t have a Goodreads account, but I clicked Be A Fan anyway because I just am.
There are still a lot of her novels that I haven’t read, and I’m excited. I just wished it was more readily available here in the Philippines.
Else, I’m going to London. (I wish. Hahaha!)
I love reading her stories. They always have everything I need and want in contemporary novels.
Pia Soto is the sexy and glamorous prima ballerina. She’s wild and precocious, and she’s a survivor. Sophie O’Farrell is Pia’s hapless, gawky assistant, always falling in love with the wrong man or just falling over. When a devastating accident threatens to cut short Pia’s illustrious career, Sophie has to step out of her shadows and face up to the demons in her own life.
Two heroines, each with their own stories and struggles. It’s hard not to like heroines who are arrogant or uncaring on the outside, but are actually vulnerable and struggling on the inside. And this is a cliché, sort of. And from clichés, Karen writes stories that are different from the norm (of the contemporary literary world), but reflective of the “real world”. We all think of war and poverty as one the major things that give man heartache (and they are, and they do). But we also forget that the mere calling of names, putting down people, lying and cheating (!!) are equally heartbreaking and saddening. KS weaves a story out of this “miseries”, that speaks to the reader (even if you haven’t been directly involved in one). It didn’t feel like a made-up story, where you just proceed to the next page to know how it was resolved. It was like being part of the story itself, experiencing everything the characters were feeling.
Karen Swan is ruthless. On her characters. She doesn’t hesitate on punishing her characters when they misbehaved. This is not a fairy tale, where the heroines are being maltreated because they are… the heroes of the book. But with KS’s stories, the heroines are being “punished” because they did something wrong. It seems trivial, but it’s helpful to be reminded that just because you’re the lead in your life story, it doesn’t mean that when something bad happened to you, it was because someone did something bad to you.
I love this! Sometimes, I wish there was a “super fan” function here on Goodreads. There are some authors who I’m a fan of because I want to be updated with their works, etc. But there are some (like Karen Swan), who doesn’t have a Goodreads account, but I clicked Be A Fan anyway because I just am.
There are still a lot of her novels that I haven’t read, and I’m excited. I just wished it was more readily available here in the Philippines.
Else, I’m going to London. (I wish. Hahaha!)
July 26, 2015
I love this book. The entire story was captivating, even from the beginning. I love how it started with an epilogue, to give like a warning to the readers. I loved how the epilogue ended, raising questions in the readers' mind.
But most of all, I love how the plot of the book is not filled with unrealistic love notions like most chick-flick books. The book is in fact, filled with love that are realistic. None of those ridiculous proclamations of love when the guy first met the girl, or a prolonged-proclamation of love where it took the character a page to finally let the significant other know the extent of his/her love.
I also love the characterisation of this book. It was not like some books that are filled with bullshit and how perfect the characters are. I love how the characters in this book resembles real people. How they are also deeply flawed, no matter how perfect they try to seem to be. Personally, I think it is through the flaws that the readers could connect to the characters. And that connection is very important in a book.
Lastly, I love how the book is centred on 2 completely different protagonist. It's just amazing to see how to women living two different lives but somehow are connected through their mistakes. Overall, I think it's a beautiful book that deserve much more attention.
But most of all, I love how the plot of the book is not filled with unrealistic love notions like most chick-flick books. The book is in fact, filled with love that are realistic. None of those ridiculous proclamations of love when the guy first met the girl, or a prolonged-proclamation of love where it took the character a page to finally let the significant other know the extent of his/her love.
I also love the characterisation of this book. It was not like some books that are filled with bullshit and how perfect the characters are. I love how the characters in this book resembles real people. How they are also deeply flawed, no matter how perfect they try to seem to be. Personally, I think it is through the flaws that the readers could connect to the characters. And that connection is very important in a book.
Lastly, I love how the book is centred on 2 completely different protagonist. It's just amazing to see how to women living two different lives but somehow are connected through their mistakes. Overall, I think it's a beautiful book that deserve much more attention.
February 9, 2011
It was an ok read a bit long for me and the book was quoted as bring an romantic read but I didn't think it was.
I felt the storyline was dragged out and didn't really like the main character. Glad really that id borrowed it from the library!
I felt the storyline was dragged out and didn't really like the main character. Glad really that id borrowed it from the library!
April 22, 2021
I love a good Karen swan book.
This one has a lot of depth, many characters you were rooting for and waiting for it all to come to a head. Loved the way the were intertwined and how mean characters turned good and “good” characters turned evil.
Keeps you guessing till the last 3 chapters.
This one has a lot of depth, many characters you were rooting for and waiting for it all to come to a head. Loved the way the were intertwined and how mean characters turned good and “good” characters turned evil.
Keeps you guessing till the last 3 chapters.
February 26, 2021
Nice easy read. I enjoyed pretty much all the book. Towards the end it did get a bit who's sleeping with who and maybe dragged on a bit but then once that was out the way it ended ok as well
March 29, 2018
Delightfully witty, realistic and utterly enthralling “Prima Donna” is set in the world of ballet where sexy, bad girl Pia Soto, ChiCi’s ballerina sensation has had a tragic accident that crushes her right foot. Playing cat and mouse with Will Silk a callous financier who has his sights set on controlling the wild and wilful star, he steps in taking Pia to an Orthopedic Hospital in London, and then home to his estate where he sets up a rigorous therapeutic program to ensure her recovery in four short months.
In two alternate stories Sophie O' Farrell Pia's hapless, gawky but hardworking assistant who continually falls for inconsiderate men is fired after the accident but finds her own career as a talented artist taking off while becoming swept up in the plot of a rival ballerina. Good-looking and athletic Tanner Ludgrove, the polo manager at the stud farm next to Silk’s home despises him and is determined to stop years of hatred by ending their contract, only to become immersed in the intrigues that seem to keep Pia bound to the ruthless entrepreneur. Running from the pain in their pasts the three lives intertwine in fascinating ways that keep you riveted to the story from beginning to end.
Well-written and smoothly paced, emotional- tension heats up when Ava Petrova, Pia’s replacement with the ChiCi company instigates a rivalry that includes not only taking the ballerina’s place, seducing her former partner Adam and inducing Sophie’s friendship while away from the spotlight the Brazilian prima donna is faced with a struggle that has her trying to avoid Silk and clashing with Tanner, the man who saves her from drowning. Cleverly Karen Swan slowly brings to light the demons each of the main characters face while introducing surprising twists that could spawn love and promising futures.
Complex and natural the characters have as many weaknesses as strengths, like Pia Soto who’s haunted by a loss that leaves her driven, rebellious and proud. Temperamental, she can be tactless and hot-headed, has no friends and is very self-absorbed. In contrast, although sexually promiscuous like Pia, Sophia O’Farrell on her own since age fifteen is hardworking, naive and has little self-confidence. A talented artist she is easy prey for the ambitious and underhanded Ava. Conniving and manipulative Will Silk is determined, powerful and arrogant while Tanner Ludgrove, a man haunted by the pain in his past is honest, confident, but also demanding, obstinate and condescending. All fuel the story with passion, spirit and emotional drama.
I like “Prima Donna” an exciting roller-coaster, so different from other romances.
In two alternate stories Sophie O' Farrell Pia's hapless, gawky but hardworking assistant who continually falls for inconsiderate men is fired after the accident but finds her own career as a talented artist taking off while becoming swept up in the plot of a rival ballerina. Good-looking and athletic Tanner Ludgrove, the polo manager at the stud farm next to Silk’s home despises him and is determined to stop years of hatred by ending their contract, only to become immersed in the intrigues that seem to keep Pia bound to the ruthless entrepreneur. Running from the pain in their pasts the three lives intertwine in fascinating ways that keep you riveted to the story from beginning to end.
Well-written and smoothly paced, emotional- tension heats up when Ava Petrova, Pia’s replacement with the ChiCi company instigates a rivalry that includes not only taking the ballerina’s place, seducing her former partner Adam and inducing Sophie’s friendship while away from the spotlight the Brazilian prima donna is faced with a struggle that has her trying to avoid Silk and clashing with Tanner, the man who saves her from drowning. Cleverly Karen Swan slowly brings to light the demons each of the main characters face while introducing surprising twists that could spawn love and promising futures.
Complex and natural the characters have as many weaknesses as strengths, like Pia Soto who’s haunted by a loss that leaves her driven, rebellious and proud. Temperamental, she can be tactless and hot-headed, has no friends and is very self-absorbed. In contrast, although sexually promiscuous like Pia, Sophia O’Farrell on her own since age fifteen is hardworking, naive and has little self-confidence. A talented artist she is easy prey for the ambitious and underhanded Ava. Conniving and manipulative Will Silk is determined, powerful and arrogant while Tanner Ludgrove, a man haunted by the pain in his past is honest, confident, but also demanding, obstinate and condescending. All fuel the story with passion, spirit and emotional drama.
I like “Prima Donna” an exciting roller-coaster, so different from other romances.
May 12, 2017
After only discovering Karen swan last year I have quickly become a fan of her writing style and ability to draw you in to the story. within the first page or two. This book was no different! Whilst I rated this book 4 stars this was simply because the love interests didn't really blossom until later in the book but that was my only negative point! The book centres around two characters who both are running from their pasts and careers are tested. I loved the feeling of being in the 'ballet' world it feel like we were getting to see the behind the scenes footage and not just the pretty performances! I love how Karen can create an intriguing storyline and always manages to surprise the reader!
May 21, 2017
Pia Soto is a lady who knows exactly what she wants and how to get it.
Sophie O'Farrell is her put upon assistant who will do whatever it takes to keep Pia happy, going above and beyond her job description to ensure that happens.
Putting these two characters together drew me into the story immediately. But it's what happens when they have to exist separately that makes the story what it is. Watching their lives move away from each other, seeing them find different paths in order to survive as best they can, endeared them both to me.
The way the author concludes the story is brilliant. I will definitely be checking out her other books now.
Sophie O'Farrell is her put upon assistant who will do whatever it takes to keep Pia happy, going above and beyond her job description to ensure that happens.
Putting these two characters together drew me into the story immediately. But it's what happens when they have to exist separately that makes the story what it is. Watching their lives move away from each other, seeing them find different paths in order to survive as best they can, endeared them both to me.
The way the author concludes the story is brilliant. I will definitely be checking out her other books now.
June 17, 2018
So this is by far one of my favourite books I think I have ever read. The plot, the twists, the way the stories intertwined was amazing. This is one of three books in my life I have ever re read, and the only one I had reread twice and within the last couple of years.
This book is the reason I began noticing the author, and fell in love with her. This book was amazing, I can't say that enough about this.
This book is the reason I began noticing the author, and fell in love with her. This book was amazing, I can't say that enough about this.
February 28, 2022
I have read 4 of Karen Swan’s book but this is the first non-Christmas/Winter one.
It’s not just the time of year that’s different with this book, this plot takes place over a longer time span and consequently has more chapters then I’m used to. Having said that, it still holds your attention and Karen Swan manages to keep your involvement with the characters to a great degree.
I’ll take another “summer” book to enjoy and compare!
It’s not just the time of year that’s different with this book, this plot takes place over a longer time span and consequently has more chapters then I’m used to. Having said that, it still holds your attention and Karen Swan manages to keep your involvement with the characters to a great degree.
I’ll take another “summer” book to enjoy and compare!
May 3, 2022
2.5 stars.
A book with no story.
I wasn’t all that taken with the story. It was just a lot of pointless drama, to my mind. Pia came off as a brat, Sophie was lack lustre, Tony, Tanner and Will were boring leading men. The actual story felt meh. Nothing really happened, at times the ballerina rivalry was exciting but not enough to do much for the story. The writing and setting of the novel was bleh.
Overall, the story felt pointless. Not even all that drama-filled. I’m definitely not a fan.
A book with no story.
I wasn’t all that taken with the story. It was just a lot of pointless drama, to my mind. Pia came off as a brat, Sophie was lack lustre, Tony, Tanner and Will were boring leading men. The actual story felt meh. Nothing really happened, at times the ballerina rivalry was exciting but not enough to do much for the story. The writing and setting of the novel was bleh.
Overall, the story felt pointless. Not even all that drama-filled. I’m definitely not a fan.
January 7, 2020
Brilliantly written strong characters - great storyline with twist and turns - surprises in store right up to the last chapter. The author must visit or really do her homework on the areas and countries she writes about as theses have authenticity and depth. Some may call this chic lit but this is a classy read with substance.
January 27, 2020
First of all, I hate ballet! Having read most of Karen Swan’s books, this put me off reading Prima Donna, but I do love her books and thought I’d give it a go. Thank goodness I did, really enjoyed it although it was evident it was one of her earlier books. No matter, as usual, it had me engrossed and even gave me respect for the ballet world.
February 5, 2022
Prima Donna
Karen swan never disappoint you with her stories. Her research is always extensive regarding her subject. I wasn’t sure if I would like Pia, but as the story moves along I definitely found I was on her side. A great story, sad when it ended. I can’t wait for her next book, maybe she will do one on the racing circuit next .
Karen swan never disappoint you with her stories. Her research is always extensive regarding her subject. I wasn’t sure if I would like Pia, but as the story moves along I definitely found I was on her side. A great story, sad when it ended. I can’t wait for her next book, maybe she will do one on the racing circuit next .
January 14, 2019
I enjoyed the book although I found it a bit long winded at times. The ballerina story line appealed to me and I came to like Pia from my initial meeting with her when it all started to make sense. Not top of my favourites list but I still enjoyed it.
March 26, 2019
I've read a few of this author's books and this one was good, like the others. One of the protagonists is unlikable until literally the end but whatever - there were other characters I liked enough to make up for it.
February 16, 2021
Absolutely loved this book so much!!! I finished it so fast as it had me on tenterhooks from the beginning, especially set in the ballet world which you know I love. Brilliant Karen Swan novel as always.
October 8, 2021
Prima Donna is the best Karen Swan novel I have read so far, and there have been several good ones. The story twists and turns keep you rivetted to the book right until the very end. Excellent read!
March 4, 2024
The last 100 pages is where this book gets really exciting. It was a good read but I know Karen Swan has written better ones. There were times where the characters in this book were over the line unrealistic but ending was nice.
May 26, 2017
Love love LOVE. As per usual when it's Karen Swan.
August 26, 2017
I usually enjoy her books and find them an easy beach read. This one was a little over the top for me.
January 11, 2018
Fast read
A fun book, nothing heavy. Enjoyed learning about the world of ballet and the dedication involved. The heroine is a spitfire.
A fun book, nothing heavy. Enjoyed learning about the world of ballet and the dedication involved. The heroine is a spitfire.
June 19, 2018
Good fun
Nicely written descriptions that let you imagine the scene well. Some exciting adult scenes and just an all round fun piece of fiction
Nicely written descriptions that let you imagine the scene well. Some exciting adult scenes and just an all round fun piece of fiction
June 30, 2018
Really enjoyable
Really enjoyed this book kept a good story going for most of the way,but corny at the end with all loose ends being tied up in a pretty bow, but overall a good read
Really enjoyed this book kept a good story going for most of the way,but corny at the end with all loose ends being tied up in a pretty bow, but overall a good read
August 15, 2020
A totally different milieu and unusual characters. A great read.
September 30, 2020
Review of Prima Donna
This was an alright book and I was just not sure if I could recommend it to anyone who loves romance novels. I just couldn't get into it.
This was an alright book and I was just not sure if I could recommend it to anyone who loves romance novels. I just couldn't get into it.
January 13, 2021
Very good book. Enjoyed it from start to finish.
February 19, 2021
I started off disliking Pia immensely, but the storyline progressed and the characters developed so in the end I thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 17, 2021
these books are like comfort food
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews