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First Force #2
To the Breaking Pointe
Pushed to the Breaking Pointe!
Five years ago First Force operative, Grant Ketchum, let the ballerina of his dreams dance out of his life. After her American adoptive parents were killed in an automobile accident, Silja Ramsay returned to her birthplace, Russia, to take the position of the principal dancer for the Novikov Ballet Company. She was living her dreams and although they had very little contact, Grant was proud of her.
The owner and director of the ballet company, Natalia Novikov, has a dark secret: her beloved company is almost broke. Natalia has become so desperate to keep her company afloat that she forces the dancers to prostitute themselves to financial contributors at exclusive after-show parties.
As the prima ballerina of the troupe, Silja has been exempt and kept in the dark about the parties, until a big-time American financier offers to bail out the company and provide Natalia with everything she needs. His prerequisite: Silja must become his companion, live in his home, and fulfill his every desire.
Against her will Silja is taken to the American's mansion, but before she goes she manages to send a text to the only man who can save her: Grant.
HELP!!!
Now Grant Ketchum is on a mission to save his lost ballerina from this powerful man's subjugation. He will do anything to get her out alive. If they survive, will he let her chasse out of his life again?
Five years ago First Force operative, Grant Ketchum, let the ballerina of his dreams dance out of his life. After her American adoptive parents were killed in an automobile accident, Silja Ramsay returned to her birthplace, Russia, to take the position of the principal dancer for the Novikov Ballet Company. She was living her dreams and although they had very little contact, Grant was proud of her.
The owner and director of the ballet company, Natalia Novikov, has a dark secret: her beloved company is almost broke. Natalia has become so desperate to keep her company afloat that she forces the dancers to prostitute themselves to financial contributors at exclusive after-show parties.
As the prima ballerina of the troupe, Silja has been exempt and kept in the dark about the parties, until a big-time American financier offers to bail out the company and provide Natalia with everything she needs. His prerequisite: Silja must become his companion, live in his home, and fulfill his every desire.
Against her will Silja is taken to the American's mansion, but before she goes she manages to send a text to the only man who can save her: Grant.
HELP!!!
Now Grant Ketchum is on a mission to save his lost ballerina from this powerful man's subjugation. He will do anything to get her out alive. If they survive, will he let her chasse out of his life again?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2014
4 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Cindy McDonald
16 books117 followersAfter enjoying a career as a professional dancer/choreographer for twenty-six years, I have retired to write my book series and spend more time with family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 15 reviews
September 1, 2014
Again, YES. This is everything you want in a romantic thriller. We have stupid girl, who leaves man of her dreams to go to ballet in Russia. Lame. We have brooding, impossibly gorgeous ex-military guy who broods over her and hasn't gotten over her. THEN! We have dumb girl make ridiculous choices that only land her in really horrible danger.
But then!!!
Hot guys flies half way across the planet to save her.
Just stop it. Just stop it right now because you know I read this thing in one afternoon. Laundry out of control? Check. Dinner burning on stove? Check. Eating junk food from the confines of my chair and getting cheeto dust on pages? Check. This is how we do, folks. This is how we do.
I loved it. I couldn't put it down, even though dumb Silja is just really dumb. She can't follow instructions, or her gut, for nothing and poor Grant has to really work hard to not just keep her in his life, but keep her alive.
Then you throw in the Russian government being bad, a criminal from American, who happens to be a sexual deviant of the worst kind, and people getting killed left and right. Oh! And a mind altering serum. Which, terrifying if you look at just that aspect alone.
But I loved it. Poor Matt and kids felt totally neglected today, but a day spent reading was totally worth it. I needed that. AND, there is more in this series and I cannot wait. It's very Linda Howard (my favorite) like in the story. You combine ex-military hotties with romance and I'm all in. Take everything I have, just give me the damn book.
But then!!!
Hot guys flies half way across the planet to save her.
Just stop it. Just stop it right now because you know I read this thing in one afternoon. Laundry out of control? Check. Dinner burning on stove? Check. Eating junk food from the confines of my chair and getting cheeto dust on pages? Check. This is how we do, folks. This is how we do.
I loved it. I couldn't put it down, even though dumb Silja is just really dumb. She can't follow instructions, or her gut, for nothing and poor Grant has to really work hard to not just keep her in his life, but keep her alive.
Then you throw in the Russian government being bad, a criminal from American, who happens to be a sexual deviant of the worst kind, and people getting killed left and right. Oh! And a mind altering serum. Which, terrifying if you look at just that aspect alone.
But I loved it. Poor Matt and kids felt totally neglected today, but a day spent reading was totally worth it. I needed that. AND, there is more in this series and I cannot wait. It's very Linda Howard (my favorite) like in the story. You combine ex-military hotties with romance and I'm all in. Take everything I have, just give me the damn book.
October 27, 2014
To The Breaking Pointe is a riveting romantic suspense story that takes the reader on one hell of an exhilarating roller coaster ride. Author Cindy McDonald weaves an intriguing suspense thriller that transports the reader between Russia and the US as they follow First Force operative Grant Ketchum, as he tries to rescue his lost love Silja Ramsay, a Russian principal ballerina with the Novikov Ballet Company, from the clutches of a ruthless wealthy American financier.
This is a gripping tale that easily draws the reader in from the beginning, and keeps them captivated and in suspense until the dramatic conclusion. This complex and multi-layered story follows Grant, who with the help and protection from his First Force team, travels to the other side of the world to rescue his unrequited love.
To The Breaking Pointe is the second book in the First Force Series. This is an exciting and fast-paced page-turner of a tale that has enough suspense, murder and romance, intriguing characters, and so many surprising twists and turns that will keep the reader on their toes. You can't help but get drawn into the story, the author provides a richly descriptive and compelling tale that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat guessing what will happen next. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I loved how the author called upon her past dancing experience to weave a lovely romantic tale that takes the reader behind the curtains of the ballet world and mixed it with intrigue and suspense that is sure to keep the reader riveted until the surprising conclusion!
If you are looking for a riveting romantic suspense novel that will take you on a heart pumping adrenaline rush of a thrill ride, than look no further ... To The Breaking Pointe is a powerful story that will leave you breathless!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
This is a gripping tale that easily draws the reader in from the beginning, and keeps them captivated and in suspense until the dramatic conclusion. This complex and multi-layered story follows Grant, who with the help and protection from his First Force team, travels to the other side of the world to rescue his unrequited love.
To The Breaking Pointe is the second book in the First Force Series. This is an exciting and fast-paced page-turner of a tale that has enough suspense, murder and romance, intriguing characters, and so many surprising twists and turns that will keep the reader on their toes. You can't help but get drawn into the story, the author provides a richly descriptive and compelling tale that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat guessing what will happen next. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I loved how the author called upon her past dancing experience to weave a lovely romantic tale that takes the reader behind the curtains of the ballet world and mixed it with intrigue and suspense that is sure to keep the reader riveted until the surprising conclusion!
If you are looking for a riveting romantic suspense novel that will take you on a heart pumping adrenaline rush of a thrill ride, than look no further ... To The Breaking Pointe is a powerful story that will leave you breathless!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
October 27, 2017
The Novikov Balerina Company is in trouble. Natalia is trying to save it, but in what way is she raising money? And How does the First Force get involved? I have to keep reading to find out.
August 13, 2024
Romance, dancing, love, special forces
Wow. I've not read book one, but this book was great! First, it is truly a stand-alone book read. I was fine with it. When one mixes in special ops teams, USA ballerina who went to Russia to dance, and a very rich monster of a man who is ruthless beyond compare, the suspense is superb, the action dynamic, and great one liners tossed in here and there - that is the mark of a great book! A special love story that spans years, and the ruthlessness that some people are born with, as far as Mr. Crafton is concerned, plus other characters are a great fit. The only sad feeling I felt in my gut was the thought of women who are treated in a similar manner. Real life happens. My prayers go out to all real-life women who are trapped, whether they have a chip in their neck or trapped otherwise.
Wow. I've not read book one, but this book was great! First, it is truly a stand-alone book read. I was fine with it. When one mixes in special ops teams, USA ballerina who went to Russia to dance, and a very rich monster of a man who is ruthless beyond compare, the suspense is superb, the action dynamic, and great one liners tossed in here and there - that is the mark of a great book! A special love story that spans years, and the ruthlessness that some people are born with, as far as Mr. Crafton is concerned, plus other characters are a great fit. The only sad feeling I felt in my gut was the thought of women who are treated in a similar manner. Real life happens. My prayers go out to all real-life women who are trapped, whether they have a chip in their neck or trapped otherwise.
November 16, 2015
An ARC was generously provided and received in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars for a great concept only lacking a few minor touches.
This story is a romantic suspense and part of the First Force series. It seems like each book will cover a different character for each book and may be read as a standalone. Having not previously read the first book myself, I felt the author did cover any need to know facts that might pertain to this story. There were some mistakes, however I'm not entirely sure I received the final edit copy, so I will not address minor ones. Some mistakes were personally too hard to overlook, such as the author neglecting research of military etiquette lingo. It is unacceptable to be call an Ex-Marine or Ex-Military. It is Prior Marine and Prior Military. This mistake was made throughout the book and across all branches of service. That should not happen as this whole series is based on characters who are PRIOR MILITARY, I hope she learns before future novels that it is an insult to those who have or are currently serving and their families.
The characters were likable and seemed developed well. I feel she could have delved more into the story as the concept had so much to work with. I really liked the darker elements to the story. That part really had me hooked, but again I feel she didn't dig as deep as she needed to or offer more details in those instances. I would like to read about the other characters of this series and have more hope for Ms. McDonald. I feel her best writing is yet to come. If you like suspense without blantant dark elements, give this one a try.
3.5 Stars for a great concept only lacking a few minor touches.
This story is a romantic suspense and part of the First Force series. It seems like each book will cover a different character for each book and may be read as a standalone. Having not previously read the first book myself, I felt the author did cover any need to know facts that might pertain to this story. There were some mistakes, however I'm not entirely sure I received the final edit copy, so I will not address minor ones. Some mistakes were personally too hard to overlook, such as the author neglecting research of military etiquette lingo. It is unacceptable to be call an Ex-Marine or Ex-Military. It is Prior Marine and Prior Military. This mistake was made throughout the book and across all branches of service. That should not happen as this whole series is based on characters who are PRIOR MILITARY, I hope she learns before future novels that it is an insult to those who have or are currently serving and their families.
The characters were likable and seemed developed well. I feel she could have delved more into the story as the concept had so much to work with. I really liked the darker elements to the story. That part really had me hooked, but again I feel she didn't dig as deep as she needed to or offer more details in those instances. I would like to read about the other characters of this series and have more hope for Ms. McDonald. I feel her best writing is yet to come. If you like suspense without blantant dark elements, give this one a try.
October 23, 2014
Silya Ramsay is living her dream as the principal dancer for the Novikov Ballet Company in Russia. But the company is not doing well. Natalia Novikov has resorted to auctioning her dancers off on Saturday nights to financial contributors to help pay the bills. Silya has been exempt from the parties so far, but one contributor is determined to have her for his own, offering to bail out the company in exchange for Silya.
To the Breaking Pointe by Cindy McDonald is an entertaining story of love and obsession. Before she's taken to the contributor's home to be his constant companion, Silya manages to get a text message off to her former lover, Grant Ketchum. Grant is an American operative in First Force, an organization introduced in the first book of the series, Into the Crossfire. Grant is still in love with Silya and immediately flies to Russia to save her.
The rest of the novel is a thrill ride as Grant tries to find and save Silya from the obsessive contributor. There's gunfire and explosions and chases. And there's romance as well, as Grant and Silya have never really fallen out of love in the five years they've been apart. There are a couple scenes of sexual violence, but they aren't too disturbing and they definitely make sense in the storyline.
Overall, To the Breaking Point is a fast-paced combination of thrills and romance that makes for a quick, satisfying read. While it is the second book in the First Force series, it does stand alone fine. Although, I personally liked the Into the Crossfire a little better, so I'd suggest starting with that one first!
To the Breaking Pointe by Cindy McDonald is an entertaining story of love and obsession. Before she's taken to the contributor's home to be his constant companion, Silya manages to get a text message off to her former lover, Grant Ketchum. Grant is an American operative in First Force, an organization introduced in the first book of the series, Into the Crossfire. Grant is still in love with Silya and immediately flies to Russia to save her.
The rest of the novel is a thrill ride as Grant tries to find and save Silya from the obsessive contributor. There's gunfire and explosions and chases. And there's romance as well, as Grant and Silya have never really fallen out of love in the five years they've been apart. There are a couple scenes of sexual violence, but they aren't too disturbing and they definitely make sense in the storyline.
Overall, To the Breaking Point is a fast-paced combination of thrills and romance that makes for a quick, satisfying read. While it is the second book in the First Force series, it does stand alone fine. Although, I personally liked the Into the Crossfire a little better, so I'd suggest starting with that one first!
October 13, 2014
This is the third Cindy McDonald book that I’ve read and reviewed, and McDonald doesn’t disappoint.
Silja Ramsey left the love of her life, Grant, to pursue her dream in ballet in Russia. Both Silja and Grant assumed that the other moved on, especially since five years had passed, but that idea is the farthest from the truth. They both still think of one another, a lot.
Silja then finds out that the ballet company she works for is barely keeping it doors open, and the owner is pimping out the dancers to cover costs. On top of that Silja finds herself in a relationship with a dangerous man, and manages to text Grant for help right before she disappears.
I read this book in three days. It kept me up late at night because I had to find out what happened. I usually favor books with singular point-of-views, but for McDonald’s books I really don’t mind the multiple point-of-views; in fact they help give the reader more insight into what’s going on.
I found myself completely encapsulated in the story that McDonald created; she truly has a talent for writing. To the Breaking Pointe was a great romantic suspense novel, and I definitely recommend it.
My Rating: 4 1/2 stars
***I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Silja Ramsey left the love of her life, Grant, to pursue her dream in ballet in Russia. Both Silja and Grant assumed that the other moved on, especially since five years had passed, but that idea is the farthest from the truth. They both still think of one another, a lot.
Silja then finds out that the ballet company she works for is barely keeping it doors open, and the owner is pimping out the dancers to cover costs. On top of that Silja finds herself in a relationship with a dangerous man, and manages to text Grant for help right before she disappears.
I read this book in three days. It kept me up late at night because I had to find out what happened. I usually favor books with singular point-of-views, but for McDonald’s books I really don’t mind the multiple point-of-views; in fact they help give the reader more insight into what’s going on.
I found myself completely encapsulated in the story that McDonald created; she truly has a talent for writing. To the Breaking Pointe was a great romantic suspense novel, and I definitely recommend it.
My Rating: 4 1/2 stars
***I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
September 20, 2014
I didn't think it was possible but Cindy McDonald's latest installment in the First Force series, TO THE BREAKING POINTE takes the reader on an even more thrilling ride than the first installment INTO THE CROSSFIRE, which is an edge of your seat read, too.
Five years after the love of his life danced out of his life to pursue a career as prima ballerina for a company in Russia, First Force operative Grant Ketchum can't get her out of his mind. Unbeknownst to him, it is the same for her.
So, when things go bad for her on the other side of the world, who is the man she texts for help? Grant Ketchum, that's who.
Cindy McDonald's suspense novel takes the read racing down the tracks like a high speed train. So you better hold on as Grant travels across the globe to save the woman he loves. But he doesn't work alone. Readers meet and bond with the rest of the First Force team who know how to watch their teammate's back.
Question, after he saves her, will he let her dance out of his life again?
Five years after the love of his life danced out of his life to pursue a career as prima ballerina for a company in Russia, First Force operative Grant Ketchum can't get her out of his mind. Unbeknownst to him, it is the same for her.
So, when things go bad for her on the other side of the world, who is the man she texts for help? Grant Ketchum, that's who.
Cindy McDonald's suspense novel takes the read racing down the tracks like a high speed train. So you better hold on as Grant travels across the globe to save the woman he loves. But he doesn't work alone. Readers meet and bond with the rest of the First Force team who know how to watch their teammate's back.
Question, after he saves her, will he let her dance out of his life again?
April 20, 2016
This book delivers intrigue, suspense and romance.
There are a lot of dark elements to this storyline. The character of Ballard Crafton exemplifies evil, but fortunately for Silja, her knight in shining armor is able to intercept her message for help before departing on another mission and arrive in time to save her.
The author does a good job of integrating several sub-plots into the storyline and successfully ties them all together. Character development is well done. Things aren’t always as they may seem, as witnessed by Tess’s revelation in the final chapter.
Favorite part:
When Grant shows up at Silja’s bedroom door at the Crafton mansion – and she falls into his arms. Even though it’s been five years, they both realize they only have eyes for one another.
The romantic sparks flying between Peyton and Casey are entertaining and promise another story down the road.
There are a lot of dark elements to this storyline. The character of Ballard Crafton exemplifies evil, but fortunately for Silja, her knight in shining armor is able to intercept her message for help before departing on another mission and arrive in time to save her.
The author does a good job of integrating several sub-plots into the storyline and successfully ties them all together. Character development is well done. Things aren’t always as they may seem, as witnessed by Tess’s revelation in the final chapter.
Favorite part:
When Grant shows up at Silja’s bedroom door at the Crafton mansion – and she falls into his arms. Even though it’s been five years, they both realize they only have eyes for one another.
The romantic sparks flying between Peyton and Casey are entertaining and promise another story down the road.
November 10, 2014
I love this book. I don't have the chance often to read stories with Russian leads that I also enjoy. Grant Last the woman he loved when he let her get away.
Silja is a dancer for a failing company. She doesn't know anything about what is going on until and American backer wants her in exchange for helping the dance company. Before she is taken away, she sends a message to Grant to help her. He will go through heaven and earth to save her and not lose her again.
It was such an awesome book. I loved reading it and I can not wait for more from this series!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Silja is a dancer for a failing company. She doesn't know anything about what is going on until and American backer wants her in exchange for helping the dance company. Before she is taken away, she sends a message to Grant to help her. He will go through heaven and earth to save her and not lose her again.
It was such an awesome book. I loved reading it and I can not wait for more from this series!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 16, 2015
I read the first book in this series and found it captivating, so I couldn’t wait to read this one and the author definitely didn’t disappoint.
The story travels you between Russia and the US as First Force operative Grant Ketchum, is trying desperately to rescue his lost love Silja Ramsay, a Russian ballerina , who has fallen into the hands of an obnoxious, wealthy American.
This story was very fast paced and at time I found myself on the edge of my seat screaming out, What? Yes it was one of those reads, where what you expect to happen, normally happens ten folds over. Really enjoyed it.
The story travels you between Russia and the US as First Force operative Grant Ketchum, is trying desperately to rescue his lost love Silja Ramsay, a Russian ballerina , who has fallen into the hands of an obnoxious, wealthy American.
This story was very fast paced and at time I found myself on the edge of my seat screaming out, What? Yes it was one of those reads, where what you expect to happen, normally happens ten folds over. Really enjoyed it.
October 31, 2014
~~RECEIVED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW~~
Want a thrill ride? Want your reader to be smokin'? What a sexy Ops force team member? Want to have the twist and turns and the emotional journey? Well what you waiting for!! You will get all that just from reading this book! Cindy McDonald has given her readers a book worth reading more than once!
Want a thrill ride? Want your reader to be smokin'? What a sexy Ops force team member? Want to have the twist and turns and the emotional journey? Well what you waiting for!! You will get all that just from reading this book! Cindy McDonald has given her readers a book worth reading more than once!
October 26, 2016
I couldn't finish this book. Silja just made the most ridiculous decisions ever. I enjoyed the first book in the series, but I'm stopping here. It's just not for me.
October 8, 2014
A fun guilty pleasure. Liked the military and dance aspects. Wish there was a little more romance.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 15 reviews