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...For Love #1
A Rehearsal for Love
All Malia ever wanted in life was to become a full-time, professional dancer. Unfortunately, barriers in the form of half-assed attempts at getting a college education, a less than supportive mother, and the lack of dance classes in her area stand in the way of achieving her ultimate goal. But that all changes once choreographer Blaise Anthony comes to town, bringing both his experience in the dance industry and a brand new dance studio. Malia is instantly captivated by the idea of not only being able to give her full attention to dance, but also to be trained by one of her idols in the process. But when the two finally collide on the dance floor, an undeniable chemistry that goes beyond an eight count arises. And while Malia might’ve thought she was coming to dance towards her dreams, she quickly learns that she’s actually rehearsing for a whole lot more...
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2016
150 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Warren
48 books1,290 followersAlexandra Warren is a contemporary romance author with over thirty works to date, all of which intentionally center Black love. She is also the co-founder of Girl, Have You Read…, a digital platform dedicated to Black romance written by Black authors.
When she’s not in front of her computer, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, watching sports, and clearing her DVR. Alexandra is a proud native of Omaha, Nebraska, but she currently calls Houston, Texas home.
Learn more about Alexandra by visiting her website www.actuallyitsalexandra.com.
When she’s not in front of her computer, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, watching sports, and clearing her DVR. Alexandra is a proud native of Omaha, Nebraska, but she currently calls Houston, Texas home.
Learn more about Alexandra by visiting her website www.actuallyitsalexandra.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
not-for-me
September 8, 2020I've been wanting to read more by this author but I found out this one contains a few elements that aren't going to work for me, especially in combination . Your mileage may vary.
December 18, 2022
just ok
It wasn’t a bad book but it certainly was different than anything I’ve read by this author. Felt like I was reading a teenage drama. Malia was extremely childish the entire book. Blaise’s reaction to her pregnancy, once they laid down and he began to think about it, made me dislike him a little. He pursued her in the beginning and then couldn’t keep his hands off of her but then had the nerve to contemplate if she was trying to trap him. The three way calls and all of the sending messages through other people made me lose interest quickly and I basically skimmed through the second half of the book. I stopped feeling the romance of it all after he kissed her the first time and she behaved so childishly knowing she wanted him just as much. Let’s not mention the non existent love scenes.
It wasn’t a bad book but it certainly was different than anything I’ve read by this author. Felt like I was reading a teenage drama. Malia was extremely childish the entire book. Blaise’s reaction to her pregnancy, once they laid down and he began to think about it, made me dislike him a little. He pursued her in the beginning and then couldn’t keep his hands off of her but then had the nerve to contemplate if she was trying to trap him. The three way calls and all of the sending messages through other people made me lose interest quickly and I basically skimmed through the second half of the book. I stopped feeling the romance of it all after he kissed her the first time and she behaved so childishly knowing she wanted him just as much. Let’s not mention the non existent love scenes.
April 25, 2023
1/5 star!
cw:
This book made me angry AF. I don't like Blaise and his dumb and toxic ass. I feel so bad for Malia for all the fuckery that kept on happening to her, but at the same time, I can't believe a person can be this naïve all the fucking time. The entire third act was so fucking disgusting to read and I don't think Blaise grovel enough for what he did and said to Malia. Malia also changes her mind too quickly and I hate the fact that she threw away her budding career to appease Blaise's stupid ass (because let's be real, she did the abortion because Blaise gaslights her into not doing it). She literally was not in a place and headspace where she can take care of another human being, like wtf. I am so infuriated with how abortion was handled in here and I feel like how Malia and Blaise navigate the situation was too fast and they didn't even have an actual and proper conversation about plans. I love pregnancy and babies in my romance, but this shit over here is the best example in doing that the worse way.
Another thing that I find lacking here is both our main characters lack of background and life before this book and outside of each other. I literally can't tell you who Blaise is aside from the fact that he is a dancer who built a dance studio. Malia has a little bit of something going on in her life but I feel like those are very surface-level only. It feels like everything bad was thrown her way and then fuck the consequence and other things, let's just go straight to the HEA they don't deserve. So aggravating.
cw:
This book made me angry AF. I don't like Blaise and his dumb and toxic ass. I feel so bad for Malia for all the fuckery that kept on happening to her, but at the same time, I can't believe a person can be this naïve all the fucking time. The entire third act was so fucking disgusting to read and I don't think Blaise grovel enough for what he did and said to Malia. Malia also changes her mind too quickly and I hate the fact that she threw away her budding career to appease Blaise's stupid ass (because let's be real, she did the abortion because Blaise gaslights her into not doing it). She literally was not in a place and headspace where she can take care of another human being, like wtf. I am so infuriated with how abortion was handled in here and I feel like how Malia and Blaise navigate the situation was too fast and they didn't even have an actual and proper conversation about plans. I love pregnancy and babies in my romance, but this shit over here is the best example in doing that the worse way.
Another thing that I find lacking here is both our main characters lack of background and life before this book and outside of each other. I literally can't tell you who Blaise is aside from the fact that he is a dancer who built a dance studio. Malia has a little bit of something going on in her life but I feel like those are very surface-level only. It feels like everything bad was thrown her way and then fuck the consequence and other things, let's just go straight to the HEA they don't deserve. So aggravating.
March 10, 2024
Cute
I thought this was the cutest read. Malia wanted nothing more in the world than to dance. Her mom on the other hand was unsupportive and downright disrespectful! When Blaise Anthony, one of the greatest to ever hit a stage and Malia's inspiration opens a studio down her block it's like her life is aligning. When he agrees to help her perfect her skills it's otherworldly. These two create heat and passion that only true chemistry would allow.
When Malia goes on tour it changes her life in more ways than one. This detour could mean that she'll never be who she wants to be, but after an intense argument, some soul searching, and remembering that anything is possible - with Blaise by her side, these two get more than an HEA.
OMG, the dance scenes between Blaise and Malia had the visuals going crazy! It was so well written I could vividly see it in my mind. I can't wait for Amerie and Knox...what did he do to her for so much animosity?
I thought this was the cutest read. Malia wanted nothing more in the world than to dance. Her mom on the other hand was unsupportive and downright disrespectful! When Blaise Anthony, one of the greatest to ever hit a stage and Malia's inspiration opens a studio down her block it's like her life is aligning. When he agrees to help her perfect her skills it's otherworldly. These two create heat and passion that only true chemistry would allow.
When Malia goes on tour it changes her life in more ways than one. This detour could mean that she'll never be who she wants to be, but after an intense argument, some soul searching, and remembering that anything is possible - with Blaise by her side, these two get more than an HEA.
OMG, the dance scenes between Blaise and Malia had the visuals going crazy! It was so well written I could vividly see it in my mind. I can't wait for Amerie and Knox...what did he do to her for so much animosity?
February 7, 2019
The Dance Of Love
I like how Malia always had a positive disposition despite how negative her mom always was. Blaise was drawn to Malia the first time he laid eyes on her but it went to a whole another level when they danced together for the first time. Blaise was so drawn to Malia's light that he broke up with Charlotte and her darkness. I like how Blaise shut Todd down quick when he lowkey tried to hit on Malia. I like that Amerie saw Malia's talent and tried to bring it out more rather than trying to stunt her growth to make herself look better and they became friends. I wanted to know Baby Girl's real name and i can't wait to see what happens next with Knox and Amerie.
I like how Malia always had a positive disposition despite how negative her mom always was. Blaise was drawn to Malia the first time he laid eyes on her but it went to a whole another level when they danced together for the first time. Blaise was so drawn to Malia's light that he broke up with Charlotte and her darkness. I like how Blaise shut Todd down quick when he lowkey tried to hit on Malia. I like that Amerie saw Malia's talent and tried to bring it out more rather than trying to stunt her growth to make herself look better and they became friends. I wanted to know Baby Girl's real name and i can't wait to see what happens next with Knox and Amerie.
October 7, 2017
Excellent Hallmark Story
I really love the story from beginning to end. It was a beautiful melody of different genres of music that played in my head as I read the book. It started with a lovely ballad that reminded me of one of the best crooners in the world, Luther Vandross singing Here and Now. Some hip hop and r&b setting the mood with a little Usher and Qtiip. Ending it with Let's Get Married by Jagged Edge. This is a great story about love. LOVE is such a small word with such a strong, powerful and changeable impact, whether its positive or viewed negative. Keep love alive. Great Read.
I really love the story from beginning to end. It was a beautiful melody of different genres of music that played in my head as I read the book. It started with a lovely ballad that reminded me of one of the best crooners in the world, Luther Vandross singing Here and Now. Some hip hop and r&b setting the mood with a little Usher and Qtiip. Ending it with Let's Get Married by Jagged Edge. This is a great story about love. LOVE is such a small word with such a strong, powerful and changeable impact, whether its positive or viewed negative. Keep love alive. Great Read.
May 20, 2020
Freaking awesome!!
I loved this book from beginning to end. I’m such a sucker for a good romance. I loved Blaise and Malia from the introduction. Dance and choreography is always something that amazed me and I have been very fond of which made this story especially sweet. Thank goodness that Malia was able to pursue her dreams in spite of her mother. Whew Lawd that’s another story. Definitely can’t wait to dive into Knox’s story I can tell it will be something.
I loved this book from beginning to end. I’m such a sucker for a good romance. I loved Blaise and Malia from the introduction. Dance and choreography is always something that amazed me and I have been very fond of which made this story especially sweet. Thank goodness that Malia was able to pursue her dreams in spite of her mother. Whew Lawd that’s another story. Definitely can’t wait to dive into Knox’s story I can tell it will be something.
September 8, 2022
Unfortunately, there are women of a certain era who can relate the the dysfunctional relationship of between Malia and her mother. Breaking the cycle of this can limit a woman's thinking, causing a since of worthlessness or never measuring up, which makes it even harder when there is not guide to measure against. Nevertheless, a man can instill value, self-worth and self-love, when his love is whole and applied well. This is a good read.
September 13, 2017
A Rehearsal for Love
Malia wanted to dance. Malia escaped her reality by dancing. Blaise wanted to give back to the community by teaching his gift if dancing. Blaise escaped his superficial woman by dancing. Can Blaise and Malia set aside their differences and commit to their passion?
Malia wanted to dance. Malia escaped her reality by dancing. Blaise wanted to give back to the community by teaching his gift if dancing. Blaise escaped his superficial woman by dancing. Can Blaise and Malia set aside their differences and commit to their passion?
June 20, 2018
Good Book
I love how Malia never up her dream to be a dancer. I didn't like her mother. How can you not support your child's dream. Blaise came into her life at the right time. I loved them together. The songs in this book and on your playlist are some of my favorite. Can't wait to read Knox and Amerie story.
I love how Malia never up her dream to be a dancer. I didn't like her mother. How can you not support your child's dream. Blaise came into her life at the right time. I loved them together. The songs in this book and on your playlist are some of my favorite. Can't wait to read Knox and Amerie story.
November 17, 2019
Dance with me
This dance duo love story was so good! Blaise and Malia was so full of love and their chemistry on and off the dance floor was so full I felt it. Every scene where they danced together I blushed and felt like I was watching them make a movie. I really enjoyed their story and can’t wait to read the next installment
This dance duo love story was so good! Blaise and Malia was so full of love and their chemistry on and off the dance floor was so full I felt it. Every scene where they danced together I blushed and felt like I was watching them make a movie. I really enjoyed their story and can’t wait to read the next installment
September 30, 2021
Love dance
Cute story,Blaise and Malia was the cutest couple the dance their way into each others heart, I was heart broken by Malia's moms behavior and relationships towards her. I'm happy she found comfort and acceptance through Blaise and her back up dancers. You out did yourself again Alexandra Warren can't wait to get your next read.
Cute story,Blaise and Malia was the cutest couple the dance their way into each others heart, I was heart broken by Malia's moms behavior and relationships towards her. I'm happy she found comfort and acceptance through Blaise and her back up dancers. You out did yourself again Alexandra Warren can't wait to get your next read.
September 17, 2017
Interesting
I definitely enjoyed reading about the chemistry between Malia and Blaise. The characters were written very well, and the story was interesting. It made me laugh with the various banter but also made me angry with the mama with the treatment of her daughter.
I definitely enjoyed reading about the chemistry between Malia and Blaise. The characters were written very well, and the story was interesting. It made me laugh with the various banter but also made me angry with the mama with the treatment of her daughter.
July 28, 2018
Great Read!
Loved the book on Malia and Blaise. Malia's mom wants her to get an education while she wants to fulfill her dream of being a dancer. With so much tension between them will Malia make it?
Loved the book on Malia and Blaise. Malia's mom wants her to get an education while she wants to fulfill her dream of being a dancer. With so much tension between them will Malia make it?
January 24, 2021
Lukewarm
This was a somewhat predictable love story. Malia wasn’t the most likable character, but I admired her strength. Blaise was more likable for me. The epilogue tied everything together nicely. I’m going to read the sequel. I think their story will be more entertaining.
This was a somewhat predictable love story. Malia wasn’t the most likable character, but I admired her strength. Blaise was more likable for me. The epilogue tied everything together nicely. I’m going to read the sequel. I think their story will be more entertaining.
January 25, 2021
Great story
I love the premise of this book. I like that Blaise and Malia were both dancers. One at the beginning of their career and one on the end. Blaise took Malia under his wing and mentored her. I’m glad Malia succeeded despite her verbally abusive toxic mom.
I love the premise of this book. I like that Blaise and Malia were both dancers. One at the beginning of their career and one on the end. Blaise took Malia under his wing and mentored her. I’m glad Malia succeeded despite her verbally abusive toxic mom.
May 16, 2017
Excellent read
Excellent read, I loved the characters and the storyline. Blaise, and Malian are a good match. I recommend this book, and look forward to the next one by this author.
Excellent read, I loved the characters and the storyline. Blaise, and Malian are a good match. I recommend this book, and look forward to the next one by this author.
October 22, 2017
I ❤ this book. Alexandra is amazing with the pen. I love black love and she represents it well!!! She never disappoints.
April 28, 2018
Amazing
Alexandra has done it again,Malian bad Blaise had unwavering chemistry that they both tried to deny until they had no other choice but to dance their way into happiness!!
Alexandra has done it again,Malian bad Blaise had unwavering chemistry that they both tried to deny until they had no other choice but to dance their way into happiness!!
June 29, 2018
Wow
Great read as always! Warren always takes you on a ride that makes a sharp turn and keeps you on the path of reading bliss!
Great read as always! Warren always takes you on a ride that makes a sharp turn and keeps you on the path of reading bliss!
July 5, 2018
Dancing for Love
This book is a good example of what happens when you fight for your dreams no matter what people may say or think.
This book is a good example of what happens when you fight for your dreams no matter what people may say or think.
March 30, 2019
Blaise
Enjoyed this love story. Liked learning about the lives of dancers, different. Blaise and Malia were so cute together. Glad she was able to have it all in the end. 👍
Enjoyed this love story. Liked learning about the lives of dancers, different. Blaise and Malia were so cute together. Glad she was able to have it all in the end. 👍
May 7, 2020
Feelings
This book gave me all kind of feelings. Left me with some questions. These books are driving me crazy. Yet I can’t get enough of them. Outstanding
This book gave me all kind of feelings. Left me with some questions. These books are driving me crazy. Yet I can’t get enough of them. Outstanding
January 16, 2021
♥️♥️♥️♥️
Loved their story, thank god Blaise was there for Amerie because her mother was one bitter woman. They’re so in love, and they have their beautiful baby girl💕
Loved their story, thank god Blaise was there for Amerie because her mother was one bitter woman. They’re so in love, and they have their beautiful baby girl💕
November 1, 2021
Excelle read. Nothing like have your dreams come true.
November 24, 2021
Roller coaster
This one was different for me. It was a few twists and runs that had me hanging on to my seat waiting for what was to come next.
This one was different for me. It was a few twists and runs that had me hanging on to my seat waiting for what was to come next.
January 31, 2022
Blaise and Malia
I love it. All that Mafia went through and to finally find someone to love her and really care about her. That and dancing was her dream come true. Great job
I love it. All that Mafia went through and to finally find someone to love her and really care about her. That and dancing was her dream come true. Great job
April 6, 2020
A Rehearsal for Love by Alexandra Warren is about professional dancer/choreographer Blaise Anthony and aspiring professional dancer Malia Philips. Blaise is opening a dance studio in Malia’s neighborhood. From the first dance class when he mirrors her dance moves in the freestyle I knew they would be something special. The air is charged when they dance together, Charlotte did not stand a chance. The love, support, and mentorship is beautiful, it makes you want to root for them! Malia is both the muse and the protégé. The epilogue is sweet, sometimes dreams do come true.
January 1, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised. However, I still feel like I needed to see more of their relationship. Things happened fast, in my opinion. And I am a person who enjoys a little “surprise “in the romance books I read. With this book, I had a feeling that it would happen, I was hoping there wouldn’t be any surprises but It happened. And I didn’t really like how the whole thing went down.
But still, I enjoyed this book. But to be honest, my expectations for it were low.
But still, I enjoyed this book. But to be honest, my expectations for it were low.
May 18, 2016
This was a really good read. It was quick, short and sweet. I loved me so Blaise!! I loved the chemistry between Blaise and Malia. That one dancing session that they had was HOT! Ok, now I "respeck" my elders and everything, but I wanted to throat punch Malia's mom. She was a bitter, mean and hateful Bish! She said some really ugly things to Malia. Anyway, I am glad everything worked out for Blaise and Malia. I cannot wait to read Knox and Amerie's story. Knox is so extra!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews