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Toe to Toe
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U.S. only
It takes two to tango.
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 10, 2026
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About the author
Falon Ballard
8 books1,917 followersFalon Ballard is a Los Angeles native who has been writing stories her whole life. After graduating with a degree in Creative Writing, Falon embarked on an eight-year teaching adventure before opening her own event planning business. When she’s not trolling Etsy for the latest merch from her favorite fandoms, she’s hanging out at Disneyland with a pretzel and beer in hand.
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October 22, 2025pre-read:
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason! 👀🩰
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason! 👀🩰
September 12, 2025
⚡
The worst book of my 2025
I have serious fundamental issues with this book that touch on intrinsic values.
This book just snagged the title of “the book I hate with a passion” because this runs so deep and with so many vital and underlying problems.
When I think about my 16-year-old niece reading this? I get so angry. I don’t want this kind of toxicity and skewed thinking around her.
Buckle up, this will be long.
🚩 A Book that Supports Abuse
I saw the waving red flag at 7% when she says: “And I'm not going to let a little thing like sexual harassment derail me.”
Throughout the book this girl validates and enables abuse and harassment. And when, at the end, that abuse is finally reported (in the epilogue, mind you) it’s not even by her, nor does she care.
👉 When you don’t report abuse and don’t stand up against it, you enable the abuser.
👉 When you brush off harassment, you tell the abuser they can escalate.
Meanwhile, the MMC shares again and again that he walked away from ballet and its institution because of the abuse he and his loved ones suffered. What does the FMC do? She chooses the same institution and her abuser’s request over him. She continues being part of the problem instead of taking a stand.
🎭 An Insult to Art and Performers
The FMC spends the entire book referring to him as “a stripper” even though he explains his art in depth and what he does as a profession (director, entrepreneur, choreographer, performer). BUT she still gets offended when others use the word. Hypocrisy much?
And then this line:
“Noah and Ivy are good, better than good, but something about their performance is still off […] That’s what’s missing. The want, the need. They don’t want each other. Not the way Alegra and I wanted each other. There’s no way to fake that.”
Excuse me? Do you even realize what you’re saying about thousands of performers, actors, dancers who move us with raw talent and chemistry every single day? Moulin Rouge, Swan Lake, Dirty Dancing, all of those stories and performances that moved you to write a story inspired by them - all dismissed in one ignorant line.
💔 Horrible FMC + Perfect MMC = The Worst Trope
It saddens me that I am seeing this trend more and more often: pairing horrible FMCs with perfect MMCs they don’t deserve.
What kind of fucked up world are we in?
Why should men accept selfish, manipulative women who give nothing back?
Why should they sacrifice everything while being blamed for not sacrificing enough?
Why don’t MMCs deserve to protect their own mental health like Cord was doing?
Cord does all the labour in this relationship: emotional, financial, physical. He apologises even when he’s not at fault. He chips away at himself while she initiates once (ONE call in 336 pages).
And when he breaks up with her because they’re at an impasse of a firm boundary tied to his trauma? He’s still forced to apologise.
Appalling.
⚖️ The Line Between Self-Care and Selfishness
I can’t even with the woke oh-look-I-am-inclusive approach.
• Alegra is claimed to be bisexual… yet nothing supports it besides two defensive mentions. Labels without substance ≠ inclusivity.
• The endless “Can I touch you?” moments. Why are all these characters walking on eggshells around each other? They are literally dancing. Do you really need to ask every time? At 80% in, after everything, Cord asks if he can touch her dress? When she was literally sitting on his lap and grinding? Come on. Consent king is great, but this was overkill.
• Cord laid his deepest trauma. SHE asks for SPACE. Not to support him, but to see how it reflects on HER. And then gets mad when he doesn’t text!
👎 Dishonourable Mentions (aka Things That Made Me Hate It More)
• His nickname for her? Slippers. (Yes, the shoes.)
• She “hates pink” but her life is a pink bomb explosion.
• She never does the lifting, he does everything.
• Alegra is shown to be an insecure and self-doubting girl, yet Cord goes to therapy to save the relationship while she does nothing.
• She sends boudoir photos AND nudes (face included!) to him before they’re even dating. Without even considering repercussions of anything.
• She goes on stage and dances with him and strips in front of people. YET, he is the one who needs to fix it, and he has to hide and apologise even though SHE made that choice.
• Emotional manipulation by Alegra? Everywhere. But of course, no one calls her out.
• Alegra is clueless to everything, she could've known a bit about Cord had she done a simple search about him, but it's clear she was only interested in what he can do for her and not in him as a person.
• Everyone blames Cord -even his sister and his best friend- telling him to “take accountability” and fix himself for her.
📉 Sigh
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC.
There’s time before March 2026 publication to make intrinsic, vital changes, but right now, this book is a red flag I wouldn’t want near any reader.
--
Pre-read:
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
I have serious fundamental issues with this book that touch on intrinsic values.
This book just snagged the title of “the book I hate with a passion” because this runs so deep and with so many vital and underlying problems.
When I think about my 16-year-old niece reading this? I get so angry. I don’t want this kind of toxicity and skewed thinking around her.
Buckle up, this will be long.
🚩 A Book that Supports Abuse
I saw the waving red flag at 7% when she says: “And I'm not going to let a little thing like sexual harassment derail me.”
Throughout the book this girl validates and enables abuse and harassment. And when, at the end, that abuse is finally reported (in the epilogue, mind you) it’s not even by her, nor does she care.
👉 When you don’t report abuse and don’t stand up against it, you enable the abuser.
👉 When you brush off harassment, you tell the abuser they can escalate.
Meanwhile, the MMC shares again and again that he walked away from ballet and its institution because of the abuse he and his loved ones suffered. What does the FMC do? She chooses the same institution and her abuser’s request over him. She continues being part of the problem instead of taking a stand.
🎭 An Insult to Art and Performers
The FMC spends the entire book referring to him as “a stripper” even though he explains his art in depth and what he does as a profession (director, entrepreneur, choreographer, performer). BUT she still gets offended when others use the word. Hypocrisy much?
And then this line:
“Noah and Ivy are good, better than good, but something about their performance is still off […] That’s what’s missing. The want, the need. They don’t want each other. Not the way Alegra and I wanted each other. There’s no way to fake that.”
Excuse me? Do you even realize what you’re saying about thousands of performers, actors, dancers who move us with raw talent and chemistry every single day? Moulin Rouge, Swan Lake, Dirty Dancing, all of those stories and performances that moved you to write a story inspired by them - all dismissed in one ignorant line.
💔 Horrible FMC + Perfect MMC = The Worst Trope
It saddens me that I am seeing this trend more and more often: pairing horrible FMCs with perfect MMCs they don’t deserve.
What kind of fucked up world are we in?
Why should men accept selfish, manipulative women who give nothing back?
Why should they sacrifice everything while being blamed for not sacrificing enough?
Why don’t MMCs deserve to protect their own mental health like Cord was doing?
Cord does all the labour in this relationship: emotional, financial, physical. He apologises even when he’s not at fault. He chips away at himself while she initiates once (ONE call in 336 pages).
And when he breaks up with her because they’re at an impasse of a firm boundary tied to his trauma? He’s still forced to apologise.
Appalling.
⚖️ The Line Between Self-Care and Selfishness
I can’t even with the woke oh-look-I-am-inclusive approach.
• Alegra is claimed to be bisexual… yet nothing supports it besides two defensive mentions. Labels without substance ≠ inclusivity.
• The endless “Can I touch you?” moments. Why are all these characters walking on eggshells around each other? They are literally dancing. Do you really need to ask every time? At 80% in, after everything, Cord asks if he can touch her dress? When she was literally sitting on his lap and grinding? Come on. Consent king is great, but this was overkill.
• Cord laid his deepest trauma. SHE asks for SPACE. Not to support him, but to see how it reflects on HER. And then gets mad when he doesn’t text!
👎 Dishonourable Mentions (aka Things That Made Me Hate It More)
• His nickname for her? Slippers. (Yes, the shoes.)
• She “hates pink” but her life is a pink bomb explosion.
• She never does the lifting, he does everything.
• Alegra is shown to be an insecure and self-doubting girl, yet Cord goes to therapy to save the relationship while she does nothing.
• She sends boudoir photos AND nudes (face included!) to him before they’re even dating. Without even considering repercussions of anything.
• She goes on stage and dances with him and strips in front of people. YET, he is the one who needs to fix it, and he has to hide and apologise even though SHE made that choice.
• Emotional manipulation by Alegra? Everywhere. But of course, no one calls her out.
• Alegra is clueless to everything, she could've known a bit about Cord had she done a simple search about him, but it's clear she was only interested in what he can do for her and not in him as a person.
• Everyone blames Cord -even his sister and his best friend- telling him to “take accountability” and fix himself for her.
📉 Sigh
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC.
There’s time before March 2026 publication to make intrinsic, vital changes, but right now, this book is a red flag I wouldn’t want near any reader.
--
Pre-read:
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
November 24, 2025
Toe to Toe is the kind of romance that makes your pulse quicken and your heart ache in all the best ways. From the first chapter, I was completely pulled into Allegra Hart’s world—an ambitious ballerina who has poured every ounce of herself into the pursuit of becoming a principal dancer. Her talent is undeniable, but her director’s cruel demand—that she embody a sensuality she supposedly lacks—forces her into a crossroads that could define her career. Allegra’s desperation leads her to a partnership with Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer turned magnetic star of an all-male revue. Their deal—lessons in allure in exchange for her help with his choreography—feels like a deliciously risky gamble, and from the moment they share the stage, the tension between them is undeniable.
What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
twitter<
September 13, 2025
3 ⭐️ Review to come. 🎀
Want to read
November 26, 2025
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review!*
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
August 31, 2025
the former dancer in me LOVED this book. this was such a fun and sweet book and Falon absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one! thank you so much to NetGalley and Putnam publishing for the arc!!
September 14, 2025
toe to toe
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
September 8, 2025
a ballerina and a male stripper? say less!
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
September 25, 2025
Toe to Toe was a quick and fun read, with mentions and on page, on the job sexual harassment. Some readers may have issues with how our fmc, Allegra handled it, but like all things in life, we handle only as much as we can at the time, and she does her best. Allegra is a ballerina in NY and wants to audition for a part she’s not quite made for. On the night of her sister’s bachelorette party Allegra meets sexy club owner Cord. He owns and directs a male review or strip show to those who don’t have meek sensibilities. We find out he has a painful past that is all about ballet so as much as the attraction between them hits home runs all day long, he can’t mentally deal with her job, and Allegra has worked hard for where she is. I loved Allegra and how strong she was to keep doing what she loves, and for growing a backbone with her mom. Crap mom alert!!! And stupid Cord just needed his twin to knock sense in him. His character was fun, loving and very determined to make something of himself. Which goes with Allegras dream of being prima ballerina. I just love the ballerina trope, going to add it to my rotation.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, these opinions, though, I’m rambling, are all mine.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, these opinions, though, I’m rambling, are all mine.
November 9, 2025
5⭐️ Arc for Review -
Classic ballet meets Magic Mike! The vibes of this book were on point with its gorgeous cover!
Allegra is a dancer in the famous company Ballet New York. She has devoted her life to ballet and wants nothing more to be promoted to the principal role. When the next show is announced, she mentions to her director David that she is planning to audition for the principal role. She is met with hesitation and is basically told he doesn’t think she is “sexy” enough to play the part. After going out for his sister’s Bachelorette party, she comes up with the idea to hire one of the male dancers to teach her to be sexy. Here slides in Cord Donovan. He owns his own male dance club and has made his living with this business after a traumatic past in the ballet world.
Both Allegra and Cord struggle with trauma and the body image and mental pressures of being in the ballet world. It was beautiful to watch them both work through it to try and determine if they could live a life together.
From the moment I saw this cover and read the description, I knew this book would be right up my alley. I really enjoyed it and would recommend to my friends (especially the past dancers). Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy!
Classic ballet meets Magic Mike! The vibes of this book were on point with its gorgeous cover!
Allegra is a dancer in the famous company Ballet New York. She has devoted her life to ballet and wants nothing more to be promoted to the principal role. When the next show is announced, she mentions to her director David that she is planning to audition for the principal role. She is met with hesitation and is basically told he doesn’t think she is “sexy” enough to play the part. After going out for his sister’s Bachelorette party, she comes up with the idea to hire one of the male dancers to teach her to be sexy. Here slides in Cord Donovan. He owns his own male dance club and has made his living with this business after a traumatic past in the ballet world.
Both Allegra and Cord struggle with trauma and the body image and mental pressures of being in the ballet world. It was beautiful to watch them both work through it to try and determine if they could live a life together.
From the moment I saw this cover and read the description, I knew this book would be right up my alley. I really enjoyed it and would recommend to my friends (especially the past dancers). Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy!
August 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review! :)
I absolutely devored this book, it was such an engaging read with plenty of tension, passion, and banter. In order to prepare for the audition of a lifetime, Allegra finds herself teaming up with Cord, a male dancer who helps her get in touch with her more sensual side. I loved how natural everything felt between Cord and Allegra even with the two of them having their own reasons for holding back on letting their relationship go past professional. Working in similar fields they have a shared passion for dance and they support each other chasing their dreams, which just felt so ~healthy and mature~. Most of all I liked how Cord pushed Allegra out of her comfort zone, allowing her to embrace all sides of herself and become confident and happy in her own skin while never overstepping; he always seemed to know exactly what she needed. If you love dance, romance, and lots of tension, this is the book for you!
I absolutely devored this book, it was such an engaging read with plenty of tension, passion, and banter. In order to prepare for the audition of a lifetime, Allegra finds herself teaming up with Cord, a male dancer who helps her get in touch with her more sensual side. I loved how natural everything felt between Cord and Allegra even with the two of them having their own reasons for holding back on letting their relationship go past professional. Working in similar fields they have a shared passion for dance and they support each other chasing their dreams, which just felt so ~healthy and mature~. Most of all I liked how Cord pushed Allegra out of her comfort zone, allowing her to embrace all sides of herself and become confident and happy in her own skin while never overstepping; he always seemed to know exactly what she needed. If you love dance, romance, and lots of tension, this is the book for you!
November 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinion.
Ballerina 🩰 × Make Dancer 🕺 — a combo I didn't know that I needed, let me just say that this book is incredibly sexy and burning with tension. Allegra and Cord brought the heat, the first time our love interest met, sparks were already flying and I think it is amazing how the author wrote about their chemistry without being extremely flirtatious. I am a total novice in the dance/ballet world, so I glad that this book was able to explain some of the terms in which I am new to without being overly descriptive.
Allegra's and Cord's meet cute is so so cute, the first time Cord set his eyes on Allegra (he knew he won't be able to stay away from her). There was just one thing I didn't like, the third act breakup, to me it felt so unnecessary and the book could have continued just fine without it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and it's plot is quite different from what I usually read. Allegra and Cord's relationship is everything 😌🔥. And also this book talks about sexual harassment at workplace (on-page), inappropriate comments (on-page), past sexual assault (off-page), high awareness of eating behaviors(on-page) Please do take care when reading 🫶.
Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
Ballerina 🩰 × Make Dancer 🕺 — a combo I didn't know that I needed, let me just say that this book is incredibly sexy and burning with tension. Allegra and Cord brought the heat, the first time our love interest met, sparks were already flying and I think it is amazing how the author wrote about their chemistry without being extremely flirtatious. I am a total novice in the dance/ballet world, so I glad that this book was able to explain some of the terms in which I am new to without being overly descriptive.
Allegra's and Cord's meet cute is so so cute, the first time Cord set his eyes on Allegra (he knew he won't be able to stay away from her). There was just one thing I didn't like, the third act breakup, to me it felt so unnecessary and the book could have continued just fine without it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and it's plot is quite different from what I usually read. Allegra and Cord's relationship is everything 😌🔥. And also this book talks about sexual harassment at workplace (on-page), inappropriate comments (on-page), past sexual assault (off-page), high awareness of eating behaviors(on-page) Please do take care when reading 🫶.
Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
November 10, 2025
First I would like to thank Putnam and Falon Ballard for the opportunity to read this story early! Falon is an auto buy author for me and this one didn’t disappoint. We meet Allegra a ballerina for a NYC ballet company. She is in need of getting in touch with her body to get a roll as principal at her ballet studio. She is the epitome of first born daughter energy. She also had to deal with some questionable things from the owner of the company that I honestly wasn’t a fan of. It did get resolved well at the end. Anyway to get better at what she is wanting to do she ends up convincing an owner of a male entertainment club to help her break out of her shell and learn to lover her body and dancing in a new way. Cord was of course a misunderstood, recovering ballet dancer who needed Allegra to work through his issues with a past that comes back to haunt him. I loved Cord’s energy and he was just so sweet. Overall this story really grew on me and I sucked it down in one day. If you love trainer/trainee, mental health rep, and ballet then I highly recommend this one. This one has 🌶️.5 for spice for those who are curious.
September 1, 2025
Yeah, this cover gives you all you need to start this book...
This was my second Falon Ballard book, and it happened to involve courtesans?
Okay, jokes aside, Toe to Toe is truly a sexy, artsy story set in NYC that follows an almost–principal ballerina and... let's say, a showman?
There's a very specific issue that involves the ballet industry in general, so read the trigger warnings the author leaves at the beginning.
Overall, it was a great, fast-paced read. I absolutely love ballet aesthetics, especially when they come with extra drama. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Falon Ballard...
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the DRC of this book!
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ tropes ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
🩰 Ballerina x show dancer
💃🏼 He teaches her
🌓 Lowkey different worlds
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ ria’s romance rating scale ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
• plot 81/100
• writing 77/100
• characters 77/100
• giggle & feet-kick-ability 80/100
• general enjoyment 82/100
• cringe -0/-100
2/5 🌶️
total: 397
*500-451 - 6 stars
450-401 - 5 stars
400-341 - 4 stars
340-201 - 3 stars
200-101 - 2 stars
100-0 - 1 star
This was my second Falon Ballard book, and it happened to involve courtesans?
Okay, jokes aside, Toe to Toe is truly a sexy, artsy story set in NYC that follows an almost–principal ballerina and... let's say, a showman?
There's a very specific issue that involves the ballet industry in general, so read the trigger warnings the author leaves at the beginning.
Overall, it was a great, fast-paced read. I absolutely love ballet aesthetics, especially when they come with extra drama. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Falon Ballard...
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the DRC of this book!
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ tropes ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
🩰 Ballerina x show dancer
💃🏼 He teaches her
🌓 Lowkey different worlds
˙⋆.˚୨ৎ ria’s romance rating scale ୨ৎ˙⋆.˚
• plot 81/100
• writing 77/100
• characters 77/100
• giggle & feet-kick-ability 80/100
• general enjoyment 82/100
• cringe -0/-100
2/5 🌶️
total: 397
*500-451 - 6 stars
450-401 - 5 stars
400-341 - 4 stars
340-201 - 3 stars
200-101 - 2 stars
100-0 - 1 star
October 21, 2025
Allegra, wants to be the leading ballerina in an upcoming show she must audition for. She’s told she’s not sexy enough for the part. She goes to a male strip club for her sister’s bachelorette party, and sees Cord dancing. He also happens to be the owner of the club. He’s on stage and his dancing was exactly what she is looking for inspiration. So she confronts him asking to help her with her moves.
They spent so much time together, and he was amazing in helping her confidence grow!! I loved how Cord called her Slippers 🥹 This was such a fun read!!! Was a super quick read for me, because I couldn’t get enough! I loved their connection and every single interaction. The spice was spicy!!! I loved how strong and independent Allegra was. This is my first from this Author! I look forward to more.
They spent so much time together, and he was amazing in helping her confidence grow!! I loved how Cord called her Slippers 🥹 This was such a fun read!!! Was a super quick read for me, because I couldn’t get enough! I loved their connection and every single interaction. The spice was spicy!!! I loved how strong and independent Allegra was. This is my first from this Author! I look forward to more.
September 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC!
I loved this book! Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who is trying for a new role within her company, and Cord, the owner of a “dance” studio and former dancer himself. After Allegra sees Cord dancing, she convinces him to help her be sexier to be chosen for a lead role in a new ballet.
I really loved the chemistry between these two characters as well as all the things Cord did to show Allegra how to believe in herself. Even when he had to travel/work, he was still planning tasks for her.
This is a slow burn, spicy, but sweet romance. It’s definitely on the lighter side of romance than some of the other books I read which was exactly what I needed. I read this book in a day - 5⭐️
I loved this book! Toe to Toe follows Allegra, a ballerina who is trying for a new role within her company, and Cord, the owner of a “dance” studio and former dancer himself. After Allegra sees Cord dancing, she convinces him to help her be sexier to be chosen for a lead role in a new ballet.
I really loved the chemistry between these two characters as well as all the things Cord did to show Allegra how to believe in herself. Even when he had to travel/work, he was still planning tasks for her.
This is a slow burn, spicy, but sweet romance. It’s definitely on the lighter side of romance than some of the other books I read which was exactly what I needed. I read this book in a day - 5⭐️
September 14, 2025
Toe to Toe was an absolute delight to read! Falon is an auto-read author for me, and every new release immediately finds its way onto my list. Her writing is engaging, easy to sink into, and always delivers a thoroughly entertaining story. This time, I loved being immersed in the ballet world—it brought back all the nostalgia of the ballet movies I grew up with, while still feeling fresh and unique. I found myself completely absorbed and finished it within a day or two. Another wonderful addition to Falon’s lineup!
September 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book, in exchange for honest feedback.
This book totally gave Center Stage meets Magic Mike vibes in the beginning, so I was totally excited to dive in! However, even though the spice between the main characters heated up once they got together, the rest of the story fizzled out in my opinion. I did appreciate the characters backgrounds and the mark the author was attempting to hit, but it just didn't land for me. As a former dancer/dance teacher, I did like the ballet and dance premise of the book, I just wish that the fun dance movie feels in the beginning would have continued throughout the book!
3 stars, and would still recommend to friends - or any readers that have dance background or loved the movie Center Stage!
This book totally gave Center Stage meets Magic Mike vibes in the beginning, so I was totally excited to dive in! However, even though the spice between the main characters heated up once they got together, the rest of the story fizzled out in my opinion. I did appreciate the characters backgrounds and the mark the author was attempting to hit, but it just didn't land for me. As a former dancer/dance teacher, I did like the ballet and dance premise of the book, I just wish that the fun dance movie feels in the beginning would have continued throughout the book!
3 stars, and would still recommend to friends - or any readers that have dance background or loved the movie Center Stage!
arc-tbr
November 6, 2025
tbr
September 20, 2025Thanks to Putnam, G.P. Putnam’s Sons and NetGalley, who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
September 10, 2025
Interesting premise but honestly this was kind of a weird read. Very strange.
1) the whole stripper thing? just not for me I guess
2) I HATE miscommunication tropes and this was a big one
3) the guy was kind of a manipulator
On the plus side, I did enjoy this because I got to learn more about what the intense ballet lifestyle is like and the self-confidence boost the fmc went through was inspiring!
thanks netgalley for the arc
1) the whole stripper thing? just not for me I guess
2) I HATE miscommunication tropes and this was a big one
3) the guy was kind of a manipulator
On the plus side, I did enjoy this because I got to learn more about what the intense ballet lifestyle is like and the self-confidence boost the fmc went through was inspiring!
thanks netgalley for the arc
October 23, 2025
The premise was cute but ultimately the book did not work for me.
The book felt like a blend between Center Stage and Magic Mike - a ballet dancer wants to learn to have ‘sex appeal’ to help land a lead role. An ex-ballet dancer, now owner and lead dancer for an all-male revue, is talked into giving her lessons. And as you can guess, sparks fly.
I liked the underlying message that being sexy has more to do with confidence and comfort with one’s body than physical appearance. And tied to that, I enjoyed Allegra’s positive growth throughout the book.
But I struggled with several things including the casual way workplace sexual harassment was handled (I.e., everything with David), Cord’s moral issue with ballet being overlooked and instead people acting like his perspective and actions were ridiculous, and Allegra’s mom’s unhealthy behavior was just brushed away randomly with one line. All in all, I think this tried to take on too many serious topics. But in a way that felt lacking across all of them.
Thanks to Falon Ballard, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book felt like a blend between Center Stage and Magic Mike - a ballet dancer wants to learn to have ‘sex appeal’ to help land a lead role. An ex-ballet dancer, now owner and lead dancer for an all-male revue, is talked into giving her lessons. And as you can guess, sparks fly.
I liked the underlying message that being sexy has more to do with confidence and comfort with one’s body than physical appearance. And tied to that, I enjoyed Allegra’s positive growth throughout the book.
But I struggled with several things including the casual way workplace sexual harassment was handled (I.e., everything with David), Cord’s moral issue with ballet being overlooked and instead people acting like his perspective and actions were ridiculous, and Allegra’s mom’s unhealthy behavior was just brushed away randomly with one line. All in all, I think this tried to take on too many serious topics. But in a way that felt lacking across all of them.
Thanks to Falon Ballard, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2025
Disclaimer: I know very little about ballet.
However, I was very much interested in this book because of the synopsis, which promises an ambitious ballerina learning to loosen up and have confidence thanks to the help of a stripper. The story delivers, and it’s an easy read.
I did not, however, fully enjoy the FMC, Allegra. Her career is clearly her true love, which is fair enough, but I wonder if this story might have fit better as women’s lit. Allegra does not report sexual harassment from her boss at the ballet and rather accepts it so her career is unharmed, but it’s sort of portrayed as an empowering choice by the FMC. And I do not have any triggers when it comes to eating disorders, but I am deeply uncomfortable with Allegra’s eating habits, which are supposed to be okay because she’s an athlete. The athletes I know, however, fuel their bodies and practice moderation. The FMC orders a caprese salad for dinner and only eats the tomato. Her mother foodshames her throughout, and the FMC is constantly worrying about food (she does drink wine, though, which has calories and is unhealthy?). Maybe this is a realistic depiction of the professional ballet world, but I found it concerning.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
However, I was very much interested in this book because of the synopsis, which promises an ambitious ballerina learning to loosen up and have confidence thanks to the help of a stripper. The story delivers, and it’s an easy read.
I did not, however, fully enjoy the FMC, Allegra. Her career is clearly her true love, which is fair enough, but I wonder if this story might have fit better as women’s lit. Allegra does not report sexual harassment from her boss at the ballet and rather accepts it so her career is unharmed, but it’s sort of portrayed as an empowering choice by the FMC. And I do not have any triggers when it comes to eating disorders, but I am deeply uncomfortable with Allegra’s eating habits, which are supposed to be okay because she’s an athlete. The athletes I know, however, fuel their bodies and practice moderation. The FMC orders a caprese salad for dinner and only eats the tomato. Her mother foodshames her throughout, and the FMC is constantly worrying about food (she does drink wine, though, which has calories and is unhealthy?). Maybe this is a realistic depiction of the professional ballet world, but I found it concerning.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
Allegra Hart has wanted to be principal ballerina since the day she started ballet, but has not had her big break yet. Her quest to gain lead in the next ballet is derailed when her director tells her he doesn’t believe her to be “sexy enough” to pull off the courtesan role in the ballet. After going to a male revue for her sister’s bacehlorette party, she gets the idea to proposition the gorgeous Cord Donovan to teach her how to embrace her sexy side.
***Dual POV
***Professional dancers
***Miscommunication trope
***Mental health reps
I have read all of Falon Ballard’s novels. With that said, this one fell a little short for me. A few parts of the story felt incomplete, and I wanted a little more in the end.
Allegra and Cord did have great chemistry from the start, and the slowburn leading up to the first kiss was delicious.
It was frustrating how little Allegra was in control of her life — whether it was her sceevy ballet director or domineering mother. Though I can imagine this is pretty typical in the professional ballet world. I was hoping Cord’s encouragement of her confidence would slowly change that throughout the novel, but I don’t feel like it was a flowing progression. And the 3rd act breakup with Cord telling her to choose between him and ballet? Ehhhh not what I was hoping to hear.
I will continue to seek out Falon’s novels, but not sure I would grab for this one again.
Thank you to Putnam Books and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own.
***Dual POV
***Professional dancers
***Miscommunication trope
***Mental health reps
I have read all of Falon Ballard’s novels. With that said, this one fell a little short for me. A few parts of the story felt incomplete, and I wanted a little more in the end.
Allegra and Cord did have great chemistry from the start, and the slowburn leading up to the first kiss was delicious.
It was frustrating how little Allegra was in control of her life — whether it was her sceevy ballet director or domineering mother. Though I can imagine this is pretty typical in the professional ballet world. I was hoping Cord’s encouragement of her confidence would slowly change that throughout the novel, but I don’t feel like it was a flowing progression. And the 3rd act breakup with Cord telling her to choose between him and ballet? Ehhhh not what I was hoping to hear.
I will continue to seek out Falon’s novels, but not sure I would grab for this one again.
Thank you to Putnam Books and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own.
September 24, 2025
3.5/5 stars.
I have been in a pretty bad reading slump, but I had no problem reading Toe to Toe for long stretches at a time. I found myself easily invested in these characters and their interests. I found this book interesting as I learned about the ballet world from Allegra's perspective. However, I believe that this is what propelled the story forward for me rather than from the dynamic between Allegra and Cord. Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy the two's dynamic and overall I did enjoy the romance, but their relationship did not make me swoon or feel explosive. I felt that the reasons that drove a wedge between them for the third-act conflict made sense, and I was happy to see them heal before getting back together. Overall, Toe to Toe is a solid romance from Ballard- she is an author I will continue to return to as I easily get lost in her writing. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy to review, all opinions are my own.
I have been in a pretty bad reading slump, but I had no problem reading Toe to Toe for long stretches at a time. I found myself easily invested in these characters and their interests. I found this book interesting as I learned about the ballet world from Allegra's perspective. However, I believe that this is what propelled the story forward for me rather than from the dynamic between Allegra and Cord. Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy the two's dynamic and overall I did enjoy the romance, but their relationship did not make me swoon or feel explosive. I felt that the reasons that drove a wedge between them for the third-act conflict made sense, and I was happy to see them heal before getting back together. Overall, Toe to Toe is a solid romance from Ballard- she is an author I will continue to return to as I easily get lost in her writing. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy to review, all opinions are my own.
October 22, 2025
This one is for all the ballerinas out there and the people who never got over their love of Channing Tatum or their obsession with Centre Stage!! I devoured this ballerina x male exotic dancer love story that had Allegra, a NYC ballerina aspiring to become principal, making a bargain with Cord, an ex-ballerina turned choreographer/owner of a male revue show to help her learn how to dance sexier. I loved that this was dual POV, had two bisexual leads and had such a thoughtful, realistic depiction of body confidence and mental health. An easy 10/10 for me and highly recommended for fans of books like Surprisingly us by Erin Hawkins or Spiral by Bal Khabra. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
CW: sexual misconduct
CW: sexual misconduct
September 16, 2025
This is my first time reading a Falon Ballard novel. I was attracted to the book by both the title and cover art. I was immersed in the ballet world until early college. Although I only had a positive experience, I know so much of what Ballard writes is true. As Ballard introduced her characters in the first part of her book, the writing felt stilted. As the book progresses, the writing feels much more natural and I came to truly enjoy the story. I felt she addressed some hot topics well and. I was not disappointed when justice was served, albeit in a short paragraph. Overall, I enjoyed my time with Allegra and Cord.
October 14, 2025
I’m thanking that dance class scene in Center Stage for my strong desire to read this book 😂 I loved every minute of it! Allegra wants to be the principal dancer but her director thinks she lacks sex appeal. She recruits Cord to help her since he’s the sexiest person she’s ever seen. Cord is an ex ballerina turned male stripper but needs help with his choreography so they strike up a deal. While I don’t have a rhythmic bone in my body, dance is something I have always had an appreciation for so I loved that these two shared that dance was their whole life. It put them on common ground and made for a great love story.
November 1, 2025
In Toe to Toe, we follow our main character, Allegra, a ballet dancer for a prestigious dance company in NYC. She plans to audition for a big role but is told by her male chauvinist director that she needs more “sex appeal”. After a night out for a bachelorette party, she meets Cord, a fellow dancer, and enlists his help.
I really enjoyed this one. I loved getting immersed into the world of dance, and I enjoyed the authentic building of their relationship. A heads up- this one is open door. 🌶️
*Thank you to @netgalley and @putnambooks for this advanced reader copy. This book hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
I really enjoyed this one. I loved getting immersed into the world of dance, and I enjoyed the authentic building of their relationship. A heads up- this one is open door. 🌶️
*Thank you to @netgalley and @putnambooks for this advanced reader copy. This book hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
August 27, 2025
I received an arc via Netgalley.
I ate this book up in less than a 24 hour period! I was skeptical of the sexy lessons trope but with Allegra as a prim and proper ballerina it made sense and worked with her chemistry with Cord. I wish Cord’s secret issue with ballet was introduced sooner because the secrecy was distracting and I would have understood him better. I loved all the side characters but especially Chloe, Lucy and Noah. Their conflict resolution was a little too back and forth convoluted but I guess that’s life.
I ate this book up in less than a 24 hour period! I was skeptical of the sexy lessons trope but with Allegra as a prim and proper ballerina it made sense and worked with her chemistry with Cord. I wish Cord’s secret issue with ballet was introduced sooner because the secrecy was distracting and I would have understood him better. I loved all the side characters but especially Chloe, Lucy and Noah. Their conflict resolution was a little too back and forth convoluted but I guess that’s life.
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