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HQ The Unraveling.
A ballerina spirals into a world of lust and luxury in this new addictive novel by Melanie Hamrick, author of First Position. Jocelyn Banks has always felt like an outsider in the ballet world. She was raised in rural Louisiana, taught to scrap and hustle for the life she wanted. And ever since Jocelyn found ballet, she has been able to take her life into her own hands. After years of success at the North American Ballet, she is now on a hiatus to enjoy life in London. But in an instant, Jocelyn’s world is turned upside she receives a call that her mother has died, and Jocelyn is now responsible for her grandmother’s care. With no money to take care of Mimi, she must find a way back into the ballet world, but ballet in London is completely different from ballet in America. It's not just talent and drive that will move you forward; if you don't secure a sponsor to pay your salary, you will go nowhere. With the help of a new friend and some sheer luck Jocelyn manages to score a donor, which is crucial at the Royal National Ballet—but the hardest part is yet to come. Jocelyn is unable to break through her emotions, afraid that if she does, she’ll be flooded with feelings she can’t afford to have. But something about her sponsor, the charismatic Alastair Cavendish, sets a fire in her. What she feels when she’s with him is raw and real. If she goes down this precarious path, she knows she’s doomed to fall into an intoxicating spiral of self-sabotage. But the lust and magnetizing lure of power and prestige keep clawing at her, ultimately forcing her to choose between desire and duty.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published September 26, 2024
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7999 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 20, 2024
This story was unexpected but I liked that about it! This author does not hold back in terms of steam and spice. Our main character is down for anything and in the first half of the book we are introduced to this wild child.
But the story does not just revolve around her, per se. In fact, it is a lot about the backstabbing and manipulations, both subtle and not so subtle. The machine that drives people to do what they do in and around the art world.
This author took us on a tour of the ballet world through the eyes of our main character. She lived for her art, but she was dramatic and kind of mean. I did not like her at all in many places throughout the story.
But as the story evolved, so did she. We see the other side of people and what they will do to manipulate and get what they want. But there was one constant and he was amazing. The ending was so worth all of the drama, lies, and twisted people.
The Unraveling is a different type of romance. It is not dark but you don’t get all of the happy feels either. It is a blend of right and wrong, twisted people manipulating people, and finding yourself along the way.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-unraveli...
But the story does not just revolve around her, per se. In fact, it is a lot about the backstabbing and manipulations, both subtle and not so subtle. The machine that drives people to do what they do in and around the art world.
This author took us on a tour of the ballet world through the eyes of our main character. She lived for her art, but she was dramatic and kind of mean. I did not like her at all in many places throughout the story.
But as the story evolved, so did she. We see the other side of people and what they will do to manipulate and get what they want. But there was one constant and he was amazing. The ending was so worth all of the drama, lies, and twisted people.
The Unraveling is a different type of romance. It is not dark but you don’t get all of the happy feels either. It is a blend of right and wrong, twisted people manipulating people, and finding yourself along the way.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-unraveli...
September 7, 2024
This was a high quality well narrated audio book. The burb implies this is mainly about ballet. However for me this was more about sex. There was many weird highly descriptive sex scenes and acts. There was an attempt to weave them into the ballet story. For me the character was then more fixated on sex, lust and the ballet became an afterthought complex sex triangles did nothing for me. It was a quick listen. I just felt the main character became too obsessed with sex for the ballet stuff to have the impact the blurb implied. It had black Swan vibes but should be aimed more at romance readers. The story itself was predicatable and the ending was too neat.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author and narrator.
October 30, 2024
1 star as I finished it.
It was giving Black Swan vibes.
I didn't enjoy The Unravelling at all, so I will quickly get to the reason. We are informed that the love interest will be the charismatic Alistair Cavendish. As if! He certainly was manipulative and dubious from the start, going on about obtaining a divorce and yet never staying true to his words. Pathetic excuse of a man. He also just ends up being a 'sugar daddy' to the FMC, Jocelyn, like girl wake up!!
Don't get me started on the ending!!! Seriously! Seriously! After I managed to get to the end and for that to be it. Such a letdown, not one, not one redeeming aspect.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
It was giving Black Swan vibes.
I didn't enjoy The Unravelling at all, so I will quickly get to the reason. We are informed that the love interest will be the charismatic Alistair Cavendish. As if! He certainly was manipulative and dubious from the start, going on about obtaining a divorce and yet never staying true to his words. Pathetic excuse of a man. He also just ends up being a 'sugar daddy' to the FMC, Jocelyn, like girl wake up!!
Don't get me started on the ending!!! Seriously! Seriously! After I managed to get to the end and for that to be it. Such a letdown, not one, not one redeeming aspect.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
August 12, 2024
This was just an okay story for me sadly. I really enjoyed the author's last book, First position. Her ability to immerse readers in the world of professional ballet is unparalleled but for some reason the plot of this story fell a bit flat for me. There was plenty of steamy queer romance and explicit sex scenes but I just couldn't connect with the MC. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review! Great narration by Summer Morton.
August 14, 2024
This book was absolutely wild! I didn't see it coming at all. It was dark, sexy, and filled with drama. Who knew the world of ballet could be like this?
Melanie Hamrick definitely kicked things up a notch with this book, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
*Thank you so much to Berkley Romance and Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read and review this book*
Melanie Hamrick definitely kicked things up a notch with this book, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
*Thank you so much to Berkley Romance and Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read and review this book*
September 25, 2024
Probably would've DNF'd this one if it weren't for the ballet element. As a former ballerina, I'll read (and enjoy) anything ballet, but the book as a whole was a little weak. Of course I enjoyed the crap out of it, though.
September 9, 2024
Oh this book was crazyyyyy
October 26, 2024
I don't give out 1 star ratings a lot. But I couldn't justify giving this book anything above a 1 star.
The cover and synopsis drew me in. I love ballet and I love drama so this seemed like win-win.
Unfortunately, the writing very mediocre. It reads like fanfiction but not the good kind of fanfiction. At first I thought that perhaps this author's writing style was just simple- simple I like. Simple is easy and quick. But I just couldn't connect with this.
The protagonist, Jocelyn, is supposed to go through this journey throughout this book by forgiving her horrible mother who just recently passed away.. The book begins in London - Jocelyn, a former principal dancer at a company in New York, has moved to England to be with her boyfriend, Jordan.
Due to childhood trauma (we see through flashbacks that Jocelyn's mother is the worst) Jocelyn breaks up with her loving boyfriend because she doesn't trust stability. Jocelyn moves out and decides to go back to ballet and is accepted into a company in London. Jocelyn moves in with a mentally unstable dancer in said company who Jocelyn occasionally hooks up with...and she also hooks up with another dancer in the company that she isn't really into but it's a rite of passage?
And then there's Alistair? (I forgot the spelling) She also hooks up with him a lot.
Anyway, after a lot of poorly executed sex scenes and an incident where her obsessive roommate drugs her, Jocelyn decides to go back to her boyfriend Jordan because she loved him all along after all and she leaves the London ballet company. She, like, forgives her mom for all the crap because her mom was just, like, trying her best and didn't know any better? Idk.
I'm tired now.
The cover and synopsis drew me in. I love ballet and I love drama so this seemed like win-win.
Unfortunately, the writing very mediocre. It reads like fanfiction but not the good kind of fanfiction. At first I thought that perhaps this author's writing style was just simple- simple I like. Simple is easy and quick. But I just couldn't connect with this.
The protagonist, Jocelyn, is supposed to go through this journey throughout this book by forgiving her horrible mother who just recently passed away.. The book begins in London - Jocelyn, a former principal dancer at a company in New York, has moved to England to be with her boyfriend, Jordan.
Due to childhood trauma (we see through flashbacks that Jocelyn's mother is the worst) Jocelyn breaks up with her loving boyfriend because she doesn't trust stability. Jocelyn moves out and decides to go back to ballet and is accepted into a company in London. Jocelyn moves in with a mentally unstable dancer in said company who Jocelyn occasionally hooks up with...and she also hooks up with another dancer in the company that she isn't really into but it's a rite of passage?
And then there's Alistair? (I forgot the spelling) She also hooks up with him a lot.
Anyway, after a lot of poorly executed sex scenes and an incident where her obsessive roommate drugs her, Jocelyn decides to go back to her boyfriend Jordan because she loved him all along after all and she leaves the London ballet company. She, like, forgives her mom for all the crap because her mom was just, like, trying her best and didn't know any better? Idk.
I'm tired now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
This book for sure gave me a very Black Swan kind of vibes. a dancer is sucked into the dark world of ballet.
If for sure, wasn’t what I was expecting in terms of all the sexual content.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, but it also wasn’t a good book. For me it fell kind of in the middle. It was engaging and solidly wrote. But overall, it’s kind of a story that for me kind of fade after a week or so and I probably won’t really remember this book.
Would I recommend it?
I don’t think that I would. if you’re interested in a dark sexual kind of mind game kind of book then sure. But if you want booked that really stands out and will stay with you long after finishing it. This book probably wouldn’t be for you.
Thanks to the folks at NetGalley for a copy of this book. My review is a honest reflection of my feelings towards this book.
If for sure, wasn’t what I was expecting in terms of all the sexual content.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, but it also wasn’t a good book. For me it fell kind of in the middle. It was engaging and solidly wrote. But overall, it’s kind of a story that for me kind of fade after a week or so and I probably won’t really remember this book.
Would I recommend it?
I don’t think that I would. if you’re interested in a dark sexual kind of mind game kind of book then sure. But if you want booked that really stands out and will stay with you long after finishing it. This book probably wouldn’t be for you.
Thanks to the folks at NetGalley for a copy of this book. My review is a honest reflection of my feelings towards this book.
September 27, 2024
Think 'Centre Stage meets Black Swan' 🦢🩰
Ex Ballerina moves to England and throws herself back into a ballet company after so many emotions after her mum passed away. Jocelyn is swept into a world of lust and luxury, she finds herself making some poor decisions to get to where she thinks she wants to be.
Although it's classed as a dark romance, I personally didn't think it was as dark as I was expecting (This was not a bad thing though).
It was clear Jocelyn needed to go through a self destructive stage to get to where she needed to be, i believe grief does this to people and every one reacts differently, there was a lot more depth to the story than just the spice.
Having been a dancer previously, I loved the ballet aspect and getting sucked into the darker side and all the drama that unfolded, I enjoyed this part of the book the most. I could appreciate some of the terminology and around being so devoted to dancing. I wanted more of the dark ballet, less of the spice in parts which is why it was a 4 ⭐️ for me, rather than 5.
However I did really enjoy this and enjoyed that it was darker than most romances I've read.
I can't wait to read First Position now it's on my Kindle waiting.
⚠️ I would read the triggers, this contained loss of a loved one, cheating, drugs and disordered eating ⚠️
Ex Ballerina moves to England and throws herself back into a ballet company after so many emotions after her mum passed away. Jocelyn is swept into a world of lust and luxury, she finds herself making some poor decisions to get to where she thinks she wants to be.
Although it's classed as a dark romance, I personally didn't think it was as dark as I was expecting (This was not a bad thing though).
It was clear Jocelyn needed to go through a self destructive stage to get to where she needed to be, i believe grief does this to people and every one reacts differently, there was a lot more depth to the story than just the spice.
Having been a dancer previously, I loved the ballet aspect and getting sucked into the darker side and all the drama that unfolded, I enjoyed this part of the book the most. I could appreciate some of the terminology and around being so devoted to dancing. I wanted more of the dark ballet, less of the spice in parts which is why it was a 4 ⭐️ for me, rather than 5.
However I did really enjoy this and enjoyed that it was darker than most romances I've read.
I can't wait to read First Position now it's on my Kindle waiting.
⚠️ I would read the triggers, this contained loss of a loved one, cheating, drugs and disordered eating ⚠️
October 9, 2024
4 stars.
This ballerina romance is dark, sexy and filled with drama. Who knew the world of ballet could be like this? Many of us ballerina mom do.
The Unraveling is centered around the life of Jocelyn Banks, a once principal ballet dancer and her move back into the dance world while living London. Obviously, the dance world is different from New York and Jocelyn must secure a sponsor, while navigating love, passion and drama. We see Jocelyn swept into a world of lust and luxury and she finds herself making some poor decisions to get to where she thinks she wants to be.
We witness Jocelyn’s life begin to unravel following the loss of her estranged mother. We see her plunge into a path of self-destruction that is both compelling and heartbreaking. It’s fascinating how aware she was of her actions yet she is was unwilling/unable to make the correct decision.
This novel also vividly portrays the brutal competition among ballerinas and the lengths to which they will go to sabotage one another. Yet, in the middle of the rivalry, is a story of grief, love, second chances, and healing.
I found the mother/daughter relationship an important part of the story and was glad to see Jocelyn begin to try to understand her mother's views and struggles at the end. It's a good message that it is never too late to try to heal a relationship, even if it is only for our own growth.
I loved the ballet aspect and all the drama that unfolded. It was engaging, pretty well written, and told in flashback to her early years. I could appreciate the terminology and the devotion to ballet. The author was a professional ballerina and is able to accurately describe the life of a ballerina. A level that only someone who has previously danced would otherwise know. She certainly has the ability to immerse readers in the dance world and I look forward to reading her other book called "First Position."
Overall, a steamy, dark, sexual, mind game, intense look at the world of ballet (off-stage and on).
This ballerina romance is dark, sexy and filled with drama. Who knew the world of ballet could be like this? Many of us ballerina mom do.
The Unraveling is centered around the life of Jocelyn Banks, a once principal ballet dancer and her move back into the dance world while living London. Obviously, the dance world is different from New York and Jocelyn must secure a sponsor, while navigating love, passion and drama. We see Jocelyn swept into a world of lust and luxury and she finds herself making some poor decisions to get to where she thinks she wants to be.
We witness Jocelyn’s life begin to unravel following the loss of her estranged mother. We see her plunge into a path of self-destruction that is both compelling and heartbreaking. It’s fascinating how aware she was of her actions yet she is was unwilling/unable to make the correct decision.
This novel also vividly portrays the brutal competition among ballerinas and the lengths to which they will go to sabotage one another. Yet, in the middle of the rivalry, is a story of grief, love, second chances, and healing.
I found the mother/daughter relationship an important part of the story and was glad to see Jocelyn begin to try to understand her mother's views and struggles at the end. It's a good message that it is never too late to try to heal a relationship, even if it is only for our own growth.
I loved the ballet aspect and all the drama that unfolded. It was engaging, pretty well written, and told in flashback to her early years. I could appreciate the terminology and the devotion to ballet. The author was a professional ballerina and is able to accurately describe the life of a ballerina. A level that only someone who has previously danced would otherwise know. She certainly has the ability to immerse readers in the dance world and I look forward to reading her other book called "First Position."
Overall, a steamy, dark, sexual, mind game, intense look at the world of ballet (off-stage and on).
September 23, 2024
Absolutely loved this book. Arabella what an ultimate villain! This book was totally not my normal genre being set in The Ballet world but I loved every minute.. Being part Jocelyn exploding her life made for a tough read in places, but the suspense of how it was all going to play out made it worthwhile. Loved the HEA too.
July 19, 2024
2.5⭐️
I am a ballet girly, but this book fell flat for me. I felt like the pacing was off and it couldn’t decide which genre it wanted to be apart of. I’m Glad My Mother Died meets ballet smut.
I am a ballet girly, but this book fell flat for me. I felt like the pacing was off and it couldn’t decide which genre it wanted to be apart of. I’m Glad My Mother Died meets ballet smut.
August 7, 2024
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for an access to an e early release copy
Follow Jocelyn and the toxic environment of the ballerina, following all the tropes like weight and competition. Change enters Jocelyn's life too fast as Jocelyn moves in with fellow ballerina Arabella (for no logical reason) as she re enters the back into the drama of the ballet world.
I wanted to like this story, this idea but nothing ever fully felt flushed out. There were so many different ideas and directions for Jocelyn that the author never fully committed to developing. It moved too fast for a slow burn but that would have been a better direction to go in. Unfortunately I never felt like the author committed to what they wanted to book to do. I think I kept looking for logic and it wasn’t anywhere in this story, which is definitely something that throws me off. For the reader, everytime Jocelyn met a new sexual conquest, she would pretty much have the same consistent conversation about her past. So the story would become repetitive without much progress. The details when Jocelyn reflects onto her ballet roles, previous and current, are the best written pieces.
The style of writing just wasn’t for me- it reminded me of when I read “50 Shades of Grey” which wasn’t for me either. If you’re looking for a book that just rushes through everything else to get to the “smutty” scenes, this could be for you but I couldn’t recommend based off the writing.
Side note- please stop comparing this to Black Swan. Black Swan is an Oscar winning portrayal of an innocent demure ballerina with a goal to perfection who falls into a descent of madness, OCD, and blurring the lines of reality. This book is none of that depth.
Follow Jocelyn and the toxic environment of the ballerina, following all the tropes like weight and competition. Change enters Jocelyn's life too fast as Jocelyn moves in with fellow ballerina Arabella (for no logical reason) as she re enters the back into the drama of the ballet world.
I wanted to like this story, this idea but nothing ever fully felt flushed out. There were so many different ideas and directions for Jocelyn that the author never fully committed to developing. It moved too fast for a slow burn but that would have been a better direction to go in. Unfortunately I never felt like the author committed to what they wanted to book to do. I think I kept looking for logic and it wasn’t anywhere in this story, which is definitely something that throws me off. For the reader, everytime Jocelyn met a new sexual conquest, she would pretty much have the same consistent conversation about her past. So the story would become repetitive without much progress. The details when Jocelyn reflects onto her ballet roles, previous and current, are the best written pieces.
The style of writing just wasn’t for me- it reminded me of when I read “50 Shades of Grey” which wasn’t for me either. If you’re looking for a book that just rushes through everything else to get to the “smutty” scenes, this could be for you but I couldn’t recommend based off the writing.
Side note- please stop comparing this to Black Swan. Black Swan is an Oscar winning portrayal of an innocent demure ballerina with a goal to perfection who falls into a descent of madness, OCD, and blurring the lines of reality. This book is none of that depth.
May 11, 2024
Basically ballerina smut book, but I like how it went into the darker side of ballet. But parts were a little outlandish (even for ballet) and seemed to wrap up very quickly. Some of the phrasing also took me out. Overall, bit of a miss for me unfortunately.
ARC graciously provided by NetGalley.
ARC graciously provided by NetGalley.
December 30, 2024
I listened to the audiobook, and at first, I was completely hooked. The mystery and secrets kept me on the edge of my seat, and the narrator did an excellent job of building suspense. I was so eager to find out what happened next, and the early chapters really delivered on that front.
By the time I reached the end, I felt a bit disappointed. The conclusion didn’t pack the punch I was expecting. It felt somewhat rushed and didn’t have the same intensity as the earlier parts of the story. While the book was still enjoyable overall, the ending left me wanting more. It wasn’t a bad conclusion, just not as satisfying as I had hoped.
By the time I reached the end, I felt a bit disappointed. The conclusion didn’t pack the punch I was expecting. It felt somewhat rushed and didn’t have the same intensity as the earlier parts of the story. While the book was still enjoyable overall, the ending left me wanting more. It wasn’t a bad conclusion, just not as satisfying as I had hoped.
July 17, 2024
The Unraveling by Melanie Hammock
Rating: 3.5/5
Release Date: 26 September 2024
In “The Unraveling,” Melanie Hamrick delivers a captivating exploration of the ballet world's hidden facets, weaving a tale of ambition, desire, and the struggle between duty and passion. The novel follows Jocelyn Banks, a talented ballerina from rural Louisiana, as she navigates the competitive and often ruthless world of professional ballet in London.
Hamrick's intimate knowledge of the ballet world shines through in her meticulous attention to detail. The author skilfully builds Jocelyn's character, allowing readers to understand her motivations and inner conflicts. Initially raised in a humble background, Jocelyn's determination and talent have propelled her to success in the North American Ballet. However, her world is upended when she's forced to return to London and care for her grandmother following her mother's death. This sudden shift in circumstances sets the stage for Jocelyn's complex journey of self-discovery and moral dilemmas.
Hamrick's portrayal of the London ballet scene is particularly intriguing, highlighting the stark differences between American and British ballet cultures. The focus on sponsorship and patronage in the Royal National Ballet adds an extra layer of complexity to Jocelyn's struggles, forcing her to confront the realities of power, privilege, and compromise in pursuit of her passion.
The introduction of Alastair Cavendish, Jocelyn's charismatic sponsor, serves as a catalyst for the novel's exploration of desire and temptation. Their relationship is charged with sexual tension, and Hamrick doesn't shy away from depicting their encounters in vivid detail. These spicy scenes are well-integrated into the narrative, serving to illustrate Jocelyn's internal conflict between her growing feelings for Alastair and her dedication to her craft and family obligations.
While the pacing in the early chapters may feel slow to some readers, this deliberate build-up is crucial in establishing Jocelyn's character and the world she inhabits. The detailed descriptions of Jocelyn's emotional state and decision-making process provide valuable insight into her character, making her choices throughout the novel more understandable and relatable.
Hamrick tackles several sensitive topics throughout the novel, including the pressure to maintain a certain body image in the ballet world. The book touches on disordered eating habits, which may be triggering for some readers. It's commendable that the author addresses these issues, as they are often overlooked in romanticised portrayals of ballet.
“The Unraveling” is not just a romance novel set in the world of ballet; it's a nuanced exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and the price of success. Hamrick deftly balances the glamour and allure of the ballet world with its darker, more challenging aspects, creating a narrative that feels both authentic and compelling.
In conclusion, “The Unraveling” is a well-crafted, engaging read that will appeal to fans of erotic romance, as well as those interested in the behind-the-scenes reality of professional ballet. Hamrick's writing is evocative and immersive, bringing the world of ballet to life in all its beauty and complexity. While readers should be aware of potential triggers related to disordered eating, the novel offers a rich, multifaceted story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, HQ, O, and the author, Melanie Hamrick, for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 5, 2025
Melanie Hamrick's "The Unraveling" is a captivating dive into the high-stakes world of professional ballet, offering a glimpse behind the curtain of elegance and grace to reveal a darker undercurrent of ambition, desire, and sacrifice.
Jocelyn Banks, a talented ballerina who has fought her way to the top, finds her carefully constructed world crumbling when her estranged mother dies. Facing financial ruin and the potential loss of her coveted position at the Royal National Ballet, she's forced to seek a sponsor, the enigmatic Alistair Cavendish. Their connection is immediate and intense, pulling Jocelyn into a whirlwind of lust and luxury that threatens to consume her.
What works:
* Intriguing premise: The novel blends the allure of the ballet world with a sizzling romance and a hint of suspense, creating a page-turner that keeps you hooked.
* Complex protagonist: Jocelyn is a fascinating character, driven and ambitious yet vulnerable. Her internal struggles with her past, her desires, and the demands of her career feel authentic.
* Steamy romance: The chemistry between Jocelyn and Alistair is undeniable. Their relationship is passionate and forbidden, adding an element of danger to the story.
* Insider's perspective: Hamrick, a former ballerina herself, brings authenticity to the portrayal of the ballet world, its beauty, and its brutal realities.
What could be improved:
* Pacing: The story occasionally feels uneven, with some sections moving quickly while others linger.
* Character development: While Jocelyn is well-developed, some of the supporting characters could benefit from more depth.
* Predictability: Certain plot points and character arcs are somewhat predictable, particularly for those familiar with similar stories in the "Black Swan" vein.
Overall:
"The Unraveling" is an enjoyable read for fans of romance and drama, especially those with an interest in the world of ballet. It's a seductive and emotional story that explores the sacrifices and consequences of ambition, the allure of forbidden desire, and the struggle to maintain control in the face of chaos.
Jocelyn Banks, a talented ballerina who has fought her way to the top, finds her carefully constructed world crumbling when her estranged mother dies. Facing financial ruin and the potential loss of her coveted position at the Royal National Ballet, she's forced to seek a sponsor, the enigmatic Alistair Cavendish. Their connection is immediate and intense, pulling Jocelyn into a whirlwind of lust and luxury that threatens to consume her.
What works:
* Intriguing premise: The novel blends the allure of the ballet world with a sizzling romance and a hint of suspense, creating a page-turner that keeps you hooked.
* Complex protagonist: Jocelyn is a fascinating character, driven and ambitious yet vulnerable. Her internal struggles with her past, her desires, and the demands of her career feel authentic.
* Steamy romance: The chemistry between Jocelyn and Alistair is undeniable. Their relationship is passionate and forbidden, adding an element of danger to the story.
* Insider's perspective: Hamrick, a former ballerina herself, brings authenticity to the portrayal of the ballet world, its beauty, and its brutal realities.
What could be improved:
* Pacing: The story occasionally feels uneven, with some sections moving quickly while others linger.
* Character development: While Jocelyn is well-developed, some of the supporting characters could benefit from more depth.
* Predictability: Certain plot points and character arcs are somewhat predictable, particularly for those familiar with similar stories in the "Black Swan" vein.
Overall:
"The Unraveling" is an enjoyable read for fans of romance and drama, especially those with an interest in the world of ballet. It's a seductive and emotional story that explores the sacrifices and consequences of ambition, the allure of forbidden desire, and the struggle to maintain control in the face of chaos.
August 21, 2024
I received an ARC of this book thanks to the publishers as part of a book tour!
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 is an adult ballet fiction novel that follows Louisiana ballet dancer transplant Jocelyn Banks. She is currently living in London with her up & coming artist boyfriend Jordan; and on hiatus from dancing.
She receives a phone call one night that turns her life upside down; finding out that her mom has died and she is now in charge of her grandmother's care, who is currently living in an assisted living facility.
As Jocelyn is currently out of work, she is panicking over what to do until she finds herself tangled with Annabella, a Spanish ballet dancer. Annabella helps guide Jocelyn back to ballet, but Jocelyn begins to see that the donor-sponsoree relationship in Europe is completely different than in America.
This book had me googling ballet dancer salaries because I thought they were paid through the companies they worked for; not that they had to have a sponsor/donor (& the more your donor donates the faster you move up in a company). I also did not know that there were different dancer tiers, so I appreciate learning something new!
Now comes to the characters. Jocelyn is the type of character that is so unlikable she's likable. Some of her actions would have you saying "whyyyy" but you will also finding yourself rooting for her.
This book shows the catty side of dancing, plus how a donor/sponsoree relationship can cross a line.
This book gives Black Swan meets Zane vibes, in that it's veryyyyy spicy. One thing the author did not do is hold back on the steamy scenes (& they are very detailed!)
If you are a prude, you may not appreciate it but as a reader I appreciated the descriptive writing and how the story advanced. You think it's going one way and it's definitely going another. Do not judge this book by it's cover because I thought it was going to be somewhat of a thriller but it's definitely moreso like soft ballet erotica.
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 is an adult ballet fiction novel that follows Louisiana ballet dancer transplant Jocelyn Banks. She is currently living in London with her up & coming artist boyfriend Jordan; and on hiatus from dancing.
She receives a phone call one night that turns her life upside down; finding out that her mom has died and she is now in charge of her grandmother's care, who is currently living in an assisted living facility.
As Jocelyn is currently out of work, she is panicking over what to do until she finds herself tangled with Annabella, a Spanish ballet dancer. Annabella helps guide Jocelyn back to ballet, but Jocelyn begins to see that the donor-sponsoree relationship in Europe is completely different than in America.
This book had me googling ballet dancer salaries because I thought they were paid through the companies they worked for; not that they had to have a sponsor/donor (& the more your donor donates the faster you move up in a company). I also did not know that there were different dancer tiers, so I appreciate learning something new!
Now comes to the characters. Jocelyn is the type of character that is so unlikable she's likable. Some of her actions would have you saying "whyyyy" but you will also finding yourself rooting for her.
This book shows the catty side of dancing, plus how a donor/sponsoree relationship can cross a line.
This book gives Black Swan meets Zane vibes, in that it's veryyyyy spicy. One thing the author did not do is hold back on the steamy scenes (& they are very detailed!)
If you are a prude, you may not appreciate it but as a reader I appreciated the descriptive writing and how the story advanced. You think it's going one way and it's definitely going another. Do not judge this book by it's cover because I thought it was going to be somewhat of a thriller but it's definitely moreso like soft ballet erotica.
July 18, 2024
*Arc received from Netgalley; all opinions are my own.*
TLDR: Very black swanesque if that's what you're looking for; if not, then I don't recommend it. It's marketed as a "dark romance," but I don't really feel it leans that way. Be warned that there are strong and repetitive themes of disordered eating and negative food and body talk!
I didn't enjoy The Unravelling at all, so I will keep it to the point. It's marketed as a "dark romance," with the summary telling us our love interest will be the charismatic Alistair Cavendish. First off, I don't find Alistair attractive in the slightest. He comes off as manipulative and suspicious from the get-go, talking about getting divorced yet never seemingly wanting to leave his wife. He gives me such an ick to read about. He also just ends up being more of a creepy "sugar daddy" to our MC, Jocelyn, and I was internally screaming every time she thought about or saw Alistar.
As I said previously, the plot and many of the supporting characters are very reminiscent of Black Swan and that sort of "seedy" and "manipulative" side that is portrayed in ballet. The plot is pretty straight forward, and the "high stakes" of needing a donor and then why Jocelyn needs the money are made very redundant. She needs a donor, but it doesn't seem to be as important as it's made out to be, and Jocelyn starts to stress as she needs money from a family matter, but that only really comes up once or twice, and is then just forgotten about? Even at the ending?
Finally, the ending? It was so weak, and I don't think that
TLDR: Very black swanesque if that's what you're looking for; if not, then I don't recommend it. It's marketed as a "dark romance," but I don't really feel it leans that way. Be warned that there are strong and repetitive themes of disordered eating and negative food and body talk!
I didn't enjoy The Unravelling at all, so I will keep it to the point. It's marketed as a "dark romance," with the summary telling us our love interest will be the charismatic Alistair Cavendish. First off, I don't find Alistair attractive in the slightest. He comes off as manipulative and suspicious from the get-go, talking about getting divorced yet never seemingly wanting to leave his wife. He gives me such an ick to read about. He also just ends up being more of a creepy "sugar daddy" to our MC, Jocelyn, and I was internally screaming every time she thought about or saw Alistar.
As I said previously, the plot and many of the supporting characters are very reminiscent of Black Swan and that sort of "seedy" and "manipulative" side that is portrayed in ballet. The plot is pretty straight forward, and the "high stakes" of needing a donor and then why Jocelyn needs the money are made very redundant. She needs a donor, but it doesn't seem to be as important as it's made out to be, and Jocelyn starts to stress as she needs money from a family matter, but that only really comes up once or twice, and is then just forgotten about? Even at the ending?
Finally, the ending? It was so weak, and I don't think that
August 16, 2024
This story follows a ballerina who experiences the dangers of her world and learns who to trust. As many people know, some ballerina’s don’t have the best of the world with their strict diet and having to keep a reputation in their world. This book follows that story. A young woman experiences the hardship of her career especially after her past. I loved the author’s writing style and how addictive it was to read. I do have to say there weren’t really huge conficts in the book. The story reflected mainly on sex, betrayal, and eating disorders but there weren’t the drama I was expecting. The story follows Jocelyn’s pov.
Jocelyn doesn’t know how she truly feels and is experiencing the toxic of her world. I enjoyed her character and seeing her grow. She goes through so much for her love of ballet but she asks to risk herself for it. There are many side characters in this book but I have to say that most of them were jerks. I loved Mimi and how she tried to help Jocelyn. There isn’t truly romance in this book as it’s mainly women’s fiction and coming of age, but there is a lot of steamy scenes.
The ending mostly well done but I didn’t get how guy came into the picture. I think my mind totally skipped on that fact. Overall this was a great book and I recommend checking it out. Remember to check the triggers for this book because the character has an eating disorder along with facing toxicity.
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
Jocelyn doesn’t know how she truly feels and is experiencing the toxic of her world. I enjoyed her character and seeing her grow. She goes through so much for her love of ballet but she asks to risk herself for it. There are many side characters in this book but I have to say that most of them were jerks. I loved Mimi and how she tried to help Jocelyn. There isn’t truly romance in this book as it’s mainly women’s fiction and coming of age, but there is a lot of steamy scenes.
The ending mostly well done but I didn’t get how guy came into the picture. I think my mind totally skipped on that fact. Overall this was a great book and I recommend checking it out. Remember to check the triggers for this book because the character has an eating disorder along with facing toxicity.
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
September 22, 2024
Read if you like;
-Romance
-Dark
-Ballet
-Smut
-London setting
We follow Jocelyn as she deals with grief of losing her mother and attempting to get back into ballet 🩰 after taking a break.
I loved how the author balances the allure of ballet world with the more darker and challenging side. The authors inside knowledge of the world really shown through in the descriptions and details she provided. I really did not know about the donors that the more they pay the more you move up in the company. The different dance tiers were super interesting! I loved how the author also showed the stark difference between donors in Europe and in America!
This book definitely gives off Black Swan vibes and I loved it. The author did not hold back when it came to the spicy scenes, boy were they detailed!
Now onto Jocelyn she is so unlikable that she is likeable! You can’t help but root for her to succeed. Her emotional state and decision making provide a valuable insight. I also loved the flashbacks from when she was a child I felt like that allowed you understand her and her determination a little better!
The author also tackles sensitive topics throughout, including maintaining a certain body imagine. Which, frankly I was absolutely shocked by, especially by her mother! The novel also touches on disordered eating habits which I would have liked to be explored more.
Whilst the ending was tidied up really well I did really enjoy it and felt it was a nice conclusion.
-Romance
-Dark
-Ballet
-Smut
-London setting
We follow Jocelyn as she deals with grief of losing her mother and attempting to get back into ballet 🩰 after taking a break.
I loved how the author balances the allure of ballet world with the more darker and challenging side. The authors inside knowledge of the world really shown through in the descriptions and details she provided. I really did not know about the donors that the more they pay the more you move up in the company. The different dance tiers were super interesting! I loved how the author also showed the stark difference between donors in Europe and in America!
This book definitely gives off Black Swan vibes and I loved it. The author did not hold back when it came to the spicy scenes, boy were they detailed!
Now onto Jocelyn she is so unlikable that she is likeable! You can’t help but root for her to succeed. Her emotional state and decision making provide a valuable insight. I also loved the flashbacks from when she was a child I felt like that allowed you understand her and her determination a little better!
The author also tackles sensitive topics throughout, including maintaining a certain body imagine. Which, frankly I was absolutely shocked by, especially by her mother! The novel also touches on disordered eating habits which I would have liked to be explored more.
Whilst the ending was tidied up really well I did really enjoy it and felt it was a nice conclusion.
August 14, 2024
WOW! I absolutely loved this book! Melanie Hamrick’s wildly addictive sophomore novel grips you from the very first page. It tells the story of Jocelyn Banks, who is emerging from an early retirement as a ballerina to navigate the cutthroat ballet scene in London. The narrative exposes the toxic environment and highlights how influential donors hold the power to make or break a dancer’s career, regardless of their talent.
With vibes reminiscent of *Black Swan*, we witness Jocelyn’s life begin to unravel following the loss of her estranged mother. She makes a series of questionable choices, embarking on a path of self-destruction that is both compelling and heartbreaking to read. It’s fascinating how aware she is of her decisions, yet feels an almost magnetic pull toward them—as if she is eager to discover just how far she can fall.
The novel vividly portrays the brutal competition among ballerinas and the lengths to which they will go to sabotage one another, reinforcing the notion that trust is a rare commodity in this world. Yet, amidst the rivalry, it is also a story of grief, love, second chances, and healing. With its rollercoaster of emotions and a satisfying conclusion, it serves as a wonderfully escapist read. I highly recommend it to anyone intrigued by ballet or looking for a captivating tale about female rage!
With vibes reminiscent of *Black Swan*, we witness Jocelyn’s life begin to unravel following the loss of her estranged mother. She makes a series of questionable choices, embarking on a path of self-destruction that is both compelling and heartbreaking to read. It’s fascinating how aware she is of her decisions, yet feels an almost magnetic pull toward them—as if she is eager to discover just how far she can fall.
The novel vividly portrays the brutal competition among ballerinas and the lengths to which they will go to sabotage one another, reinforcing the notion that trust is a rare commodity in this world. Yet, amidst the rivalry, it is also a story of grief, love, second chances, and healing. With its rollercoaster of emotions and a satisfying conclusion, it serves as a wonderfully escapist read. I highly recommend it to anyone intrigued by ballet or looking for a captivating tale about female rage!
August 19, 2024
As the title describes, this book revolves around an exceptional ballerina, whose life is falling apart before her eyes.
Jocelyn Banks is a phenomenal dancer, but has left the ballerina life for reasons unknown. Aimless in her next steps, she resolves to drinking and partying and not much else. Upon the death of her estranged mother, Jocelyn sets into motion a domino effect of further self-destructive behaviors. She ends her stable relationship with the boyfriend she loves, sets out to become a dancer again, but finds herself connected to some questionable characters.
Her relationship with her donor starts to cross some lines, as does her relationships with other dancers and friends. (Be prepared for some spice!) As she becomes principal dancer in the newst ballet, she finds the story is representative of her own life. In her own search for family and home, she is spiraling into a life she doesn’t want and needs to make some tough choices.
I really loved having the ballet as the background to giving her a mirror into her own life. She was an absolute mess of bad decisions, all stemming from her fractured relationship with her mom; it was interesting to watch her come to terms with that relationship and move beyond it to get her life back. So good!
Jocelyn Banks is a phenomenal dancer, but has left the ballerina life for reasons unknown. Aimless in her next steps, she resolves to drinking and partying and not much else. Upon the death of her estranged mother, Jocelyn sets into motion a domino effect of further self-destructive behaviors. She ends her stable relationship with the boyfriend she loves, sets out to become a dancer again, but finds herself connected to some questionable characters.
Her relationship with her donor starts to cross some lines, as does her relationships with other dancers and friends. (Be prepared for some spice!) As she becomes principal dancer in the newst ballet, she finds the story is representative of her own life. In her own search for family and home, she is spiraling into a life she doesn’t want and needs to make some tough choices.
I really loved having the ballet as the background to giving her a mirror into her own life. She was an absolute mess of bad decisions, all stemming from her fractured relationship with her mom; it was interesting to watch her come to terms with that relationship and move beyond it to get her life back. So good!
October 17, 2024
After leaving a prestigious American ballet company for various reasons, but mostly love, Jocelyn misses the world she sacrificed and worked hard to be part of. When her mother tragically dies, it rips the heart out of her world, filling her with guilt and regret, which overwhelms her. Her relationship suffers, and after a chance meeting with someone who can get her into an English ballet company, she finds herself single and back in the world of pain, pleasure and hard work. She needs a sponsor to survive and move forward, and again, the opportunity is there for her, but nothing is what it seems, and gradually, she spirals out of control, threatening her career and her self-worth. Jocelyn's life is dramatic, and she meets some dangerous and powerful enemies, sometimes disguised as friends. The story is told through her sexual encounters and how these affect her and her life choices. Many of the characters are unlikeable and toxic, but the ending, whilst a little unlikely, is satisfying as you invest in Jocelyn's character despite her flaws.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
September 9, 2024
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨ LGBT
✨ Erotica Romance
✨ Ballerina
✨ Jocelyn is the main character in this story. A little girl in a small town of Louisiana who dreamed to be famous and encourage by her mother to go for it even though her mother starve her to chase up their dreams.
She spirals into world of lust to get sponsored by one of the richest man who was married.
Affair was in this story so may trigger someone .
Also, she was attracted too one of the girl too.
The narrated version of this was great. The narrator gave this book life and wow you can feel the emotion of a girl who wants will do anything to get recognise.
✨ Really enjoyed this book but this may be a little to erotica for someone starting new.
The ending was rush and not that I hope for . Overall it was a good book especially with the world of rich and famous.
✨ Thankyou @harpercollins for the arc copy of this book for a honest review.
🫶🏼shaye.reads
✨ LGBT
✨ Erotica Romance
✨ Ballerina
✨ Jocelyn is the main character in this story. A little girl in a small town of Louisiana who dreamed to be famous and encourage by her mother to go for it even though her mother starve her to chase up their dreams.
She spirals into world of lust to get sponsored by one of the richest man who was married.
Affair was in this story so may trigger someone .
Also, she was attracted too one of the girl too.
The narrated version of this was great. The narrator gave this book life and wow you can feel the emotion of a girl who wants will do anything to get recognise.
✨ Really enjoyed this book but this may be a little to erotica for someone starting new.
The ending was rush and not that I hope for . Overall it was a good book especially with the world of rich and famous.
✨ Thankyou @harpercollins for the arc copy of this book for a honest review.
🫶🏼shaye.reads
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2024
Pleasantly surprised at how much I ended up enjoying this. It definitely gives Black Swan vibes with a little twist here and there.
Jocelyn isn’t an overly likeable character if I’m going to be honest. I found her quite moany and irritating. It was definitely a “me, me, me” complex. Perhaps that was the purpose of her being the protagonist? Showing her inner turmoil and indecisive nature.
Arabella infuriated me beyond reasonable doubt. I wanted to throttle her on more than one occasion.
That being said, I did enjoy the whole forbidden affair going on between Alistair and Jocelyn; who doesn’t enjoy a steamy romance from time to time? Can you even call it a romance? More like a racy affair. The sex scenes were SPICY and very detailed. Definitely not for the faint hearted.
The ending was sweet as it all came full cycle but I do feel it was slightly rushed.
Thank you to HQ Stories for sending me this “Riotously Steamy” in return for my honest review and opinion.
Jocelyn isn’t an overly likeable character if I’m going to be honest. I found her quite moany and irritating. It was definitely a “me, me, me” complex. Perhaps that was the purpose of her being the protagonist? Showing her inner turmoil and indecisive nature.
Arabella infuriated me beyond reasonable doubt. I wanted to throttle her on more than one occasion.
That being said, I did enjoy the whole forbidden affair going on between Alistair and Jocelyn; who doesn’t enjoy a steamy romance from time to time? Can you even call it a romance? More like a racy affair. The sex scenes were SPICY and very detailed. Definitely not for the faint hearted.
The ending was sweet as it all came full cycle but I do feel it was slightly rushed.
Thank you to HQ Stories for sending me this “Riotously Steamy” in return for my honest review and opinion.
May 15, 2024
Melanie Hamrick can build a drama! Melanie introduces us to Jocelyn Banks, a wildcard North American Ballerina has quit her job for love. She's in Europe trying to forget about her ballet past and just supporting her emerging artist boyfriend and his friends. It's not long before she misses her ballet shoes and is sucked right back into the dramatic world.
Hamrick introduces us to the European style of sponsors and the lifestyle of the women. She provides us with Jocelyn's backstory in pieces. As Jocelyn makes decisions, we are introduced to other ballet staff and starts. There is a lot of sex in this story - no two ways about it. Not my thing. But I did love the luxury and the thrills of Jocelyn's new life. If you are interested in ballet, Europe or luxurious lifestyles this is a book for you! #berkleypublishing #theunraveling #melaniehamrick
Hamrick introduces us to the European style of sponsors and the lifestyle of the women. She provides us with Jocelyn's backstory in pieces. As Jocelyn makes decisions, we are introduced to other ballet staff and starts. There is a lot of sex in this story - no two ways about it. Not my thing. But I did love the luxury and the thrills of Jocelyn's new life. If you are interested in ballet, Europe or luxurious lifestyles this is a book for you! #berkleypublishing #theunraveling #melaniehamrick
September 16, 2024
Ballet narratives are always interesting to read since oftentimes the narratives focus on the glitz and glam of the industry which leads to the inner dark secrets found. As is the case for Melanie Hamrick's novel but she also accomplishes an authenticity of the main character and her sexuality in a way that doesn't label the main character in a negative way (as is often the case when it comes to women in tune with their sexuality angle in books). It's clear the author has experience in the ballet world given the expensive brand mentions and Hollywood-esque scenes of the glittery world that is described as Gatsby (even a character is compared to Jay Gatsby).
It's a good read if you are looking for a ballet dark twisted narrative but not recommended if you're looking for murder mystery, etc. Also very much an adult novel!
It's a good read if you are looking for a ballet dark twisted narrative but not recommended if you're looking for murder mystery, etc. Also very much an adult novel!
September 25, 2024
3.5
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
I truly enjoyed this. Was it the most well written - maybe not. Timeline a little difficult to discern at times - yes. But I was engaged in the story, and I could see the unraveling of Jocelyn as her career begins to climb again. Her character felt very real to me and while I wasn't familiar with the inner ballet world or the notion of sponsors, I could buy into the jealousy, affairs, recklessness, deception, drinking/drug use and the abuse of power from sponsors that occurred.
I found the mother/daughter relationship a highlight of the story as well and was happy to see Jocelyn begin to try to understand her mother's views and struggles at the end. It was a good message that it is never too late to try to heal a relationship, even if it can only be for your own well-being and growth. I also enjoyed Jocelyn's relationship with her grandmother, Mimi.
There's some smut in this one, but it didn't bother me, although it might not be for everyone. There were certainly some clichés and some stereotyping as well, but I felt Jocelyn was a well developed character, and you can't help but love her boyfriend, Jordan.
I am interested to know how people more familiar with the ballet world would rate this. The author is/was a dancer, so I feel like it is likely a good depiction of some, but maybe not all companies. Either way, I found it entertaining. It's a wild ride!
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
I truly enjoyed this. Was it the most well written - maybe not. Timeline a little difficult to discern at times - yes. But I was engaged in the story, and I could see the unraveling of Jocelyn as her career begins to climb again. Her character felt very real to me and while I wasn't familiar with the inner ballet world or the notion of sponsors, I could buy into the jealousy, affairs, recklessness, deception, drinking/drug use and the abuse of power from sponsors that occurred.
I found the mother/daughter relationship a highlight of the story as well and was happy to see Jocelyn begin to try to understand her mother's views and struggles at the end. It was a good message that it is never too late to try to heal a relationship, even if it can only be for your own well-being and growth. I also enjoyed Jocelyn's relationship with her grandmother, Mimi.
There's some smut in this one, but it didn't bother me, although it might not be for everyone. There were certainly some clichés and some stereotyping as well, but I felt Jocelyn was a well developed character, and you can't help but love her boyfriend, Jordan.
I am interested to know how people more familiar with the ballet world would rate this. The author is/was a dancer, so I feel like it is likely a good depiction of some, but maybe not all companies. Either way, I found it entertaining. It's a wild ride!
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