Beneath the Parisian Skies

Wandering Skies #3

by Alli Sinclair

Lily Johansson returns to Paris, the city that broke her heart and destroyed her ballet career, hoping to ease the guilt over her fiance's death and to make amends with her estranged sister Natalie, a ballerina with the Boheme Ballet.

Terrified of loving again, Lily nevertheless finds herself becoming entangled with the driven composer Yves Rousseau. Lily has many reasons for keeping Yves at arm's length but as he recounts the colour, drama and intensity of the Ballets Russes in 1917, the magic of this Bohemian era ignites a spark within her.

Meanwhile, cast in the role of honouring Ballet Russes dancer Viktoriya Budian, Lily's sister Natalie develops an unhealthy obsession. Natalie's behaviour becomes increasingly erratic as elements of Viktoriya's tragic life resonate in her own. Lily fears for her sister's safety and sanity so when Natalie goes missing, she and Yves set out on a desperate quest across France to find her and, along the way, battle their own demons.

Could the search for her sister, lead Lily to realise that ballet -- like love and life -- should not be abandoned so easily?

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Short Stories, Drama, Contemporary

306 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2017

About the author

Alli Sinclair is an Australian multi-award winning author published who has lived in Argentina, Peru, and Canada. She’s climbed some of the world’s highest mountains and worked as a tour guide in South and Central America. Australia has always been close to Alli’s heart as she loves the diverse landscapes and the rich multicultural heritage of this wonderful land.

Alli’s books explore history, culture, love and grief, and relationships between family, friends and lovers. She captures the romance and thrill of discovering old and new worlds and loves taking readers on a journey of discovery. When not writing novels, Alli works as a producer and screenwriter for TV and cinema.

Reviews

[Kylie D · Rating 4 out of 5]

A teaser of a prequel to Beneath The Parisian Skies, we follow Lily as she leaves her home in Australia to go to Paris to dance. Her success, however, is having a negative effect on her relationship with Aiden, then there is a tragic accident.
I'm really looking forward to reading the main event now.

[Veronica ⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great prequel to "Beneath the Parisian Skies". The reader gets a good insight into Lily's character and her background.

The cliffhanger ending will leave you eager to read "Beneath the Parisian Skies".

This prequel is free to download from Amazon, Kobo and IBooks.

[Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
In Australian author Alli Sinclair’s third book of the Wandering Skies series, she takes us from the comfort of our reading chair, to the great city of lights, Paris. Beneath the Parisian Skies is a stunning dual time frame novel that explores love, passion, aspirations and the process of grief. Two remarkable young women are at the heart and soul of this novel, separated by 100 years but together they are share an unstoppable love of ballet.

Alli Sinclair’s latest embracing romance and historical saga begins with the dreams of one ballerina in training. Viktoriya Budian flees Russia during the perilous revolution in the year 1917. When Viktoriya sets foot on French soil, she has one goal, to make it as a prima ballerina for the highly regarded Ballets Russes. The path to achieving her life long dream is not an easy one for Viktoryia. She must contend with ghosts of her past, the ache of love and the pitfalls of fame. Viktoriya’s actions in the past have implications for those in the present day, which we learn through the progression of the story. In the present day, an Australian former dancer named Lily Johansson makes the difficult journey back to Paris after some years away. The last time Lily was in Paris she saw her career go down the drain and she lost the love of her life in an accident. Now Lily has returned to Paris to try to mend the broken relationship with her sister Natalie. Both sisters are dancers and we learn Natalie is a ballerina for the famed Bohème Ballet. Carrying guilt and hurt on her heavy shoulders, Lily’s return to Paris is marked by the opportunity to love again, through a memorable encounter with a man named Yves Rousseau, a composer. These two women, from very different time frames, see their worlds collide when Natalie becomes fixated on the role of Viktoriya in the present. Tragedy strikes when Natalie suddenly goes missing, and it is Lily who is taken on a desperate search to find her missing sister. It is a quest that helps Lily recognise the importance of ballet, family, and love in her healing process. It is a mission that most importantly helps her to live again after such a loss.

I was an instant fan of Alli Sinclair’s third novel, Beneath the Parisian Skies. Combining my love of the most beautiful city in the world, Paris and ballet, which I have adored since I took up ballet as a child, it certainly didn’t take much for this book to win me over. My favourite genre to read is a dual time frame style novel and Alli Sinclair presents the reader with another winning historical based storyline, combined with a fresh contemporary romance tale.

Sinclair is an accomplished writer, who has been able to present a dual time frame narrative book in her previous two books extremely well and she nails it again with her latest novel. The movement from the beautiful and generous Viktoriya in 1917, through to the strong but vulnerable Lily in the present day was seamless. I thoroughly enjoyed and was completely immersed in both storylines. I found it impossible to cast my preferences for one narrative thread over the other. I was enamoured by both storylines, they held their own and I liked each heroine as much as the other. I also appreciated the way in which Sinclair was able to carefully link these two tales together, despite the fact that 100 years separated these two endearing characters, they were eternally linked.

Sinclair must be applauded for the level and extent of research she has conducted behind the scenes to allow this magical tale to come to fruition. I found the backdrop of the historical narrative, based 1917, which was a time of great upheaval during Europe, came to life through the strong penmanship of Alli Sinclair. Viktoriya’s past in Russia is presented well by Sinclair. When Viktoriya arrives in Paris to seek a better life of fame and fortune, the architecture and streets of Paris come to life before the reader’s eyes. Sinclair also uses this section of the storyline to include some well known real life figures of the time, such as Pablo Picasso and Coco Chanel to enhance the historical authenticity of her novel. I certainly appreciated this added extra, especially as I am a big fan of historical fiction. The area where Sinclair goes that extra mile is the focus on the Ballets Russes. This aspect of the narrative was presented with enough period detail, historical accuracy and Sinclair’s trademark passion for all forms of dance that it is the star act of the novel.

In terms of characterisation, Sinclair’s ability to present the reader with finely tuned characters in both the past and present day narratives is to be highly commended. My quick and obvious love for the character of Viktoriya was marked by my fascination for anything Russian and the revolution aspect added further intrigue to this character. Viktoriya’s battles in balancing her love, career and come to terms with her past made for the perfect read. Viktoriya also had some great character strengths. Viktoriya is supported by a great selection of side characters such as Alexei and Yana. Viktoriya is a character so striking and layered that you can’t help by wish Sinclair had more to offer to the reader on this memorable protagonist. On the other hand, the present day protagonist Lily, soon gained my affection and sympathies. Lily’s story is tough one, marred by sadness, loss and overwhelming grief. I admired her strength and positivity to return to a place that held so much pain for her. Lily’s attempts to rebuild her relationship with her estranged sister, as well as confront the difficult past, made for a heart wrenching read. Lily’s pathway in this novel is a compelling one and I am glad to have shared this journey with Lily. Supporting Lily is her sister Natalie, a not so likeable character but one who is pertinent to the unfolding story. Lily’s love interest Yves was a fascinating hero, which allows Sinclair to insert some favourable musical elements to this rich drama. The final merging of the past and present, along with Lily’s second chance love story closes this novel off in the most fitting fashion.

Beneath the Parisian Skies was a novel I discovered on the days I sat down to read it, needed to be gently savoured, rather than rushed. I had to tone down my pace while reading the latest novel from Sinclair and appreciate the many flavours this novel brings to the table. The rich history, deeply felt love stories, inner passions, high drama, tenuous family estrangement, dangerous pasts, cutting grief and self fulfilment of lifelong dreams, all converge under the entrancing backdrop of Paris. A book for those who appreciate performing arts and culture, fused with adventure and historical detail, Beneath the Parisian Skies is another immersive read from one of my most treasured Australian storytellers, Alli Sinclair.

*I wish to thank Harlequin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Ballet is medicine in its own way. Think of this—with the world falling apart, isn’t it good to escape reality and go to the theatre?‘

I was happy to read another Alli Sinclair book with her strong focus on dance - I was not disappointed. In fact, I found this one to probably be her best so far. I do however feel, that the synopsis does not do justice in inviting people to this read. Very little is made of the 1917 plot, and to my mind, that was by far the strongest and most compelling story.

This tale is indeed set over two time periods - Lily in the modern day and Viktoriya in 1917. I do love a good dual time narrative and whilst this one was good, as mentioned, the 1917 storyline was by far the stronger. Yes, Lily and her sister had many trials and tribulations to endure (at times getting a little bogged down) and obstacles to overcome. Unfortunately I found both sisters to be petulant and shockingly moody and indecisive. At times I couldn’t wait to return to 1917, it became that uncomfortable. Yves was an absolute saint to put up with Lily as her behaviour was so frustrating.

‘Thankfully, he had the good sense not to question her change in mood.’

Do not let that distract you, however, from the superb story of the ballet world of Paris, 1917. Through a great grandmother and long lost diaries, the link is made between the modern and historical story. Here I was fully engaged with the struggles many of the characters went through. Viktoriya Budian was dedicated and found solace in her ballet.

‘The only time you fully come to life is when pointes are on your feet and the stage light is shining in your eyes.’

Escaping from Russia and it’s revolutionary period, Viktoriya arrives in Paris to start anew with the famed Ballets Russes. The amount of research Alli has done here, detailing fascinating facts from this time period, is most noteworthy. With World War I still ongoing, ballet did indeed provide a much needed escape and Alli brings many famous faces back to life:

‘Despite the war raging across Europe, Parisians sought solace by immersing themselves in the arts, especially with Picasso, Satie, Matisse and Proust.’

Against this backdrop, Alli brings a story of this Russian girl and all she has worked so hard for, threatening to collapse around her. You will be on the edge of your seat as you witness her life spiral out of control through no fault of her own. There is such sadness and yet moments of pure exhilaration. Overall, I recommend this book, especially so if you are at all interested in ballet.

‘The storm clouds that had permanently hung over the Paris of her mind had drifted away and were replaced by a magnificent blue now that she had found her home beneath the Parisian skies.’

[Janine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Harlequin and Beauty and Lace book club for the opportunity to read this new book from Alli Sinclair.

I was so glad that I read the little prequel novella before I read this book as I believed it set up the story beautifully, in fact it should have been included as the beginning of this book as without reading it you really do miss the point in why Lily and Natalie’s relationship as sisters is fractured.

The story is told in two timeframes one being set in the early 1900’s and then present day Paris. I really enjoyed the story of Viktoriya and her quest to be recognised and given the chance to be the Prima ballerina in the Ballet Russes, the pressure to keep the ballet going with very little money put her in such a difficult position.

The relationship between the two sisters Lily and Natalie did get a little tiresome and drawn out at times, but overall the book provided a great description of Paris at the time with the architecture and feel of the city.

[Jeannette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book blurb...
A sweeping saga about love, truth, grief and passion — and what it takes to fulfil a dream.
Paris, 1917
Ballerina Viktoriya Budian narrowly escapes Russia with her life. She arrives in Paris determined to start afresh with the famed Ballets Russes but her newfound success is threatened when her past returns to haunt her. Forced to choose between love and fame, Viktoriya’s life spirals out of control and the decision she makes seriously affects the lives of many for years to come.
Paris, present day
Australian dancer Lily Johansson returns to Paris, the city that broke her heart and destroyed her ballet career, hoping to ease the guilt over her fiancé’s death and to make amends with her estranged sister, Natalie, a ballerina with the Bohème Ballet. Terrified of loving again, Lily nevertheless finds herself becoming entangled with talented composer Yves Rousseau.
Meanwhile, vying for the role honouring Viktoriya Budian, Lily’s sister Natalie develops an unhealthy obsession. As Natalie’s behaviour becomes increasingly erratic, Lily fears for her sister’s safety and sanity. When Natalie goes missing, Lil and Yves set out on a desperate quest across France to find her and, along the way, battle their own demons.
Could the search for her sister lead Lily to realise that ballet — like love and life — should not be abandoned so easily?

My thoughts…

I loved being swept up into the world of ballet, especially under Parisian Skies!

This story is told over two time periods and I was particularly taken with the 1917 story thread and the struggles these characters endured. It’s not hard to fall in love with characters when they are strong but vulnerable at the same time. The present day characters have lessons to learn in order to grow. Sometimes life's lessons are too hard and Lily, Natalie and Yves certainly have challenges.

The author’s passion for dance blends with beautiful storytelling to make this a compelling tale of love.

This review also found at http://www.readroundoz.wordpress.com

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alli Sinclair is an Australian author with a passion for dance, and it shows. Beneath the Parisian Skies is part of the Wandering Skies series, which I was not aware of until after reading the book. Don't be put off though because there doesn't actually seem to be anything linking the books except a theme.

Beneath the Parisian Skies has a FREE prequel, only available digitally, which I only looked into after reading the novel - but that didn't stop me from ordering Parisian Dreams and devouring it. The prequel is three chapters that sets the scene for the novel, it is hard for me to say what it adds to the experience because I read it after I finished the book. It is not imperative but certainly worth the read. It gives a short background and allows us to see how Lily found herself in Paris.

There is a strong historical element to Beneath the Parisian Skies. The entire story is set in Paris but we have two timelines, Paris in 1917 and Present Day Paris. The historical element had me intrigued and on finishing the book I headed to Google to do a little research, the Ballets Russes did exist and some of the major players in the book were actual people but I think our leading lady was a product of Alli Sinclair.

Viktoria Budian is a ballerina with the Ballets Russes in 1917, she has escaped Russia with her life but had to leave her family behind. She is determined to make a new life for herself and earn enough to bring her family to safety in Paris.

Ballet is in her blood, her heart and soul. She has turned to dance to get her through the trying times in her life and she has channeled that passion to help unfortunate girls find a new purpose. Hers is a life of passion, dedicated to her art and helping people where she can.

The times are tough and the world is in turmoil and ballet may seem a little frivolous with so many lives in danger. But some think that's an even better reason to ensure that the arts flourish, to offer hope in a tumultuous world.

Her aspirations are all tied up with the ballet and moving up to leading lady from understudy but she is faced with the tough decision of putting love or her dreams first.

In the present Lily Johansson has returned to Paris to make peace with her past, and her estranged sister. Paris is the city of love, of romance, but for Lily it's the city that broke her heart and her career.

The two stories are linked by the ballet and there is also a character connection that isn't made clear until later in the book. The Bohème Ballet is looking to produce a ballet that honours the life of Viktoriya so we see snippets of her life through the lens of history as well as in chapters set in the past.

Sinclair has penned a poetic tale of history echoing its way into the present, it's not a case of history repeating but there are certainly similarities between the events of the past and what's going on in the present.

Lily is closed off from her life as she tries to get through the days since losing her fiancé, I would like to say moving on but she seems to quite actively resist moving on for a lot of the story.

Sinclair has written a story that celebrates the ballet while not romanticising it. She doesn't gloss over the gruelling workload, the blisters and the bruises; and the hard work to actually make it. There are so many positions in a ballet and you may never make it to the top and dance as a leading lady, sometimes the years of hardwork can get you into a prestigious ballet company but still leave you dancing as an understudy.

The beauty of the book is in the way Sinclair has woven the ballet into the lives of the characters, the ballet is part of their heart and soul and even when it's taken away it can't be escaped. Not being able to dance doesn't lessen the hold.

I enjoyed the way that the two stories weave around one another but I'm left wanting more of Viktoriya's story.

Lily returns to Paris to try to mend her relationship with her sister Natalie, who is trying for the role of Viktoriya in the new ballet. Her fixation on the role leads to an unhealthy obsession that very nearly ends her career before her star has had it's chance to shine. After having the door slammed in her face Lily is out walking in a park when she comes across Yves Rousseau and inspires him; only to discover that he is composing said ballet.

The storytelling is intricate as Sinclair weaves the magic of the ballet with love, loss, grief, dreams and the heart-wrenching journey to acceptance and moving on.

Paris is a place of such history and Sinclair paints it beautifully. I am not one who has ever really caught the travel bug, I don't feel the need to see other places but I do love to see places in my reading and I think if there was ever a place that I did decide I wanted to see... Paris would probably be it.

Beneath the Parisian Skies is an engaging tale of love, loss, grief and passion that has left me with images of the ballet playing behind my eyes.

[Julie Garner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reading copy of this book.
Beneath the Parisian Skies is as stunning as the cover image. This is one time when you can judge this book by it's cover - both are outstanding in their imagery.
As always with Alli's work we view the world (and a form of dance) through the eyes of a young Australian woman, as well as one of her ancestors. In this tale, Lily has come to Paris to re-connect with her sister and try to make peace with her past. As always, nothing is as it seems. Lily meets Yves and suddenly her world tilts on it's axis once more.
It took me a mere 10 minutes (my morning tea break) to be devoted to this book, which I completed in a couple of sittings but less than 24 hours from start to finish. It is with books like this that I question why I turn up to work when I could get lost in Paris, in Russia and in the world of ballet. Then I remember, I need my work to pay for my passion - reading! LOL!
Alli takes me away to a world I have visited but obviously never known as Lily, Yves and Natalie work to find peace in a chaotic world. Nestled among this tale we have the story of a Russian Bellarina, Viktoriya, who is influencing their lives today based on her tale from 1917. Expertly woven and treasured, I believe that this is Sinclair's best work so far. Trapping me in a foreign world and keeping a hold of me until the full tale has revealed itself in it's entirety.

[Elise McCune · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Beneath the Parisian Skies' is a time-split novel. I enjoy reading stories written in two time periods. In this book one story thread is the early 1900’s and the other thread is set in present day Paris. In 1917 Viktoriya Budian makes a choice that will impact on following generations. Her love affair with Alexi and her relationship with Yana were brought to life and while it was sad to see what she suffered Viktoriya shone for me and was my favourite character in the book. In the present day, Australian dancer Lily Johansson returns to Paris where she hopes to rebuild a relationship with her estranged sister, Natalie who was not really a likeable person. The inclusion of the Ballet Russes enriched the story. Alli Sinclair has written a lovely novel that would suit being a bookclub choice. And there is nothing like a story set in Paris. A five-star read.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beneath The Parisian Skies by Alli Sinclair is an interesting story based around the world of Ballet in Paris.

Set in two very different time zones, 1917 and today, makes for an intriguing read.

It's about grief and letting go of the past to start anew, perhaps in the arms of the one you love beneath a bright, blue Parisian sky after the clouds have passed.

There's some rivalry between the two sisters... Lily and Natalie.

The descriptions of Paris streets and countryside surrounding Lille are very well portrayed in this book which is full of romance, ballet, theatre, art and passion.

I love a happy ending with the promise of romance beneath a Parisian sky.

Get ready to pirouette in Beneath The Parisian Skies by Alli Sinclair.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rich in historical detail, this story is told from two eras in time, one from the early 1900’s, the other present day in Paris.
Once again the author demonstrates a talent for beautifully descriptive narration that will take you away to another place and time. An intense and emotional read that will draw you deeply into the characters lives.
A life choice made by Ballerina Viktoriya Budian in 1917 impacts generations to follow.
In present day, Australian dancer Lily Johansson returns to Paris, the city that broke her heart and destroyed her career. with the intention of rebuilding a relationship with her bitter and estranged sister, Natalie.
Difficult choices must be made and life examined.

[Kate Forsyth · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet, heart-warming romance set in the dreamy world of ballet in Paris. The narrative is split between the present-day story of Lily Johansson, who lost both her fiancé and her dancing career there a few years previously, and that of Viktoriya Budian, a ballerina who has escaped the Russian Revolution and is hoping to build a new life for herself in the City of Lights. I am both a balletomane and a Francophile, and so I really enjoyed the setting and dance scenes. Of the two narrative threads, the historical story worked better for me, as is often the case – perhaps because it was had greater drama and suspense.

[Janine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting and easy to read book but the characters and some of the relationships didn't seem as strong as I would like. Loved the Paris descriptions and the ballet was mostly interesting.

[Jill · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have read Alli Sinclair's two previous dance-based novels and really enjoyed them. Which is why 'Beneath the Parisian Skies' was such a disappointment. Judging by other reviews I realise I am in the minority here. I will try and explain. Firstly, the dual narrative did not work for me as the thread that linked both stories was very tenuous. I am not a big fan of this genre as the reader has to keep abreast of both stories - just when one story is getting interesting, the reader is forced to jump to the second story. The 1917 story included real-life historical people and I am not a fan of mixing real people with fictional characters, even though the author obviously had done a lot of research. Much of this story revolved around Diaghilev, Picasso, Nijinsky, Coco Chanel and the history behind the Ballets Russes, so it seemed to me more like a history lesson with the characters playing parts instead of coming to life as 'real' fictional characters. The relationship between the two sisters in the present-day story was so over the top it verged on the ridiculous. In addition, I could never warm to any of the characters as they all seemed so annoying and manipulated by the author rather than developing naturally. For almost the entire story Lily was griping about her grief without doing anything about it, screaming at her sister, and being thoroughly hurtful to her new friend Yves, then saying sorry, then hurting him again, then saying sorry - over and over. Likewise, the 1917 story was awash with cruel, manipulative and career-driven people. The entire novel seemed overladen with misery, grief, cruelty and lack of communication, with hardly anything remotely happy occurring. It weighed heavily on me. And I must have missed something, but what happened to Viktoria? What did she do for the rest of her life? Perhaps it was there, but as I could not connect with the story it did not register.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up straight after finishing the free prequel, Parisian Dreams. I love Alli Sinclair's dual narrative style and adore the dance themes that run through this series.

The Paris setting was brought to life, I'd love to visit one day more than ever. I don't think I have the discipline (or the figure) for ballet, though.

Dance, romance, and sexy French accents - yes, please!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous free prequel to Beneath the Parisian Skies. I loved getting some insight into the backstory of the heroine and the cliffhanger ending made me want to pick up the novel immediately.

[Sarah Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyes this novella. Alli sets the scene beautifully and I can't wait to read more.

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two years ago, Lily Johannson was robbed of happy ever after with her fiancé after an accident killed him, leaving her broken and unable to continue her ballet career. But now she's returned to Paris in hopes of finally moving on. So, when she meets Yves Rousseau, she's reluctant to give him a chance ,because it might lead to her forgetting what she had with her fiancé. Will Yves be able to help Lily overcome her grief, or is her grief too much to ever be able to get over?

This book is so different to anything I've read recently, as it blends the past (around the time of War) and the present to make a fantastic read that I could not put down. The way this story started had me liking the heroine immediately because of the strength she shows in being able to face the past to hopefully help her overcome her grief and be able to move on with her life. Not that it's easy, because she loved her fiancé very much and feels so much guilt over what happened to him. Will she ever realize she wasn't at fault? However, it was from the moment that the hero and heroine meet that had me intrigued, as the hero is a good man that needs some inspiration. Is the heroine his new inspiration?

As for the dialogue, it was intense and emotional due to the main characters back stories, everything the hero and heroine go through on their journey to happy ever after and everything the secondary characters go through in the past. Who will Viktoriya choose? What will happen to her, if she chooses the wrong man? Will Yves find a way to convince Lily to take a chance on him? Will Lily be able to overcome her grief and her guilt to be able to achieve happy ever after again? Moreover, the heroine is strong and brave in the way she faces the past head on, even though it takes her a while to get to where she needs to be. I also liked how determined she was to make things right with her sister who she once had a very close relationship with until her fiancé was killed in the accident. Will they ever be as close as they once were?

While the hero, he's following his dream of composing music, even though he's torn because of his old career and what his father wants for him in continuing to pursue his science career. I also liked how determined the hero was to win the heroine over, because he wants her, as she helps him to find which way he wants to take the music. Indeed, the heroine makes a good muse. Yet, what I liked most about the hero is that he wasn't afraid to say whatever was on his mind when it came to the heroine and all that she's going through to help her overcome the past and make her realize that she needs to find a way to move on.

Overall, Ms. Sinclair has penned a wonderful read in this book, which shows how the past can have an effect on the present, especially when it comes to the heroine's grief and her sister's pursuit to achieve the one thing she wanted -- the chance at her dream role in ballet. Moreover, the chemistry between Lily and Yves was intense and I loved how the hero helped the heroine to finally face the past and shows her that a second chance at happy ever after is worth it. The way this story ended had me so completely happy, as Lily needed to find a way to win back the hero and I liked the way she went about it. Expressing her feelings isn't easy, but I'm glad that she took a chance because she and Yves are good together. I would recommend Under the Parisian Sky by Alli Sinclair, if you enjoy second chance romances; books that bounce back and forth between the past and the present; or books by authors Ann O'Loughlin, Lily Woodhouse, Pamela Hart and Sara Foster.

[Karyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dance, love and Paris make for a good story!

Lily Johansson, a former ballerina who no longer dances due to an unfortunate accident and tragic circumstances has returned to Paris to confront her estranged sister Natalie; who has taken Lily's place as 'the' ballerina at Bohème Ballet Company in Paris.
A chance meeting between Lily and Yves Rousseau in the gardens and then again at the Thèâtre du Châtelet begins an unlikely relationship. Yves is a composer and is writing a ballet called Turning Pointe about the ballerina Viktoriva Budian and her legacy. A Ballet that Natalie is to star in. Yves seeks out Lily as his muse for composing the music; not knowing her background or that Natalie is her sister.

Ballerina Viktoriya Budian who escaped Russia in the early 1900s to join the Ballet Russes in Paris has a connection to Lily's family. Her diaries were read to Lily and her sister by their great grandmother and inspired the girls to become ballerinas.

Viktoriya's story and Lily's intertwine and the book is written around each character. We are dealing with Lily's life in Paris then thrown back to 1917 Paris and Viktoriya's life with the Ballet Russes.
Lily's life in present day Paris gets complicated as she tries to deny her feelings for Yves despite still grieving for her dead fiancé. Natalie then mysteriously goes missing and it has some connection to the Viktoriya's diaries and a injustice in Viktoriya's life that Natalie's seem intent on rectifying.

I found the relationship between the two sisters awkward and infuriating at times. Natalie refuses to speak or see Lily because of the death of her fiancé and Lily is doing all the chasing to make Natalie feel good. Natalie is a drama queen and I did lose any real interest in their relationship as it just seemed contrived.

I loved the chapters on Viktoriya's life in Paris in the 1900's and how she became a well known ballerina. I could have read another book just about her life and her dreams. Viktoriya is a generous soul and takes a young refugee Yana under her care.

I did enjoy the book but felt the sisters relationship was either over developed or I missed something as it just wasn't convincing but don't let that distract you from the wonderful story of Ballet in Paris in 1917.

Beneath the Parisian Skies is a story of love, loss and dreams and I really did enjoy the background and history to Viktoriya's life and how it was entwined in the sisters
Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the advance copy to review

NOTE: Helpful to read the short prequel 'Parisian Dreams'
http://www.harlequinbooks.com.au/prod...
before reading 'Beneath the Parisian Skies'

[Deb M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Beauty & Lace for the opportunity to review this book. http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/

My goodness, this is a magnificent book. I do not use those words lightly, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Beneath The Parisian Skies and Alli Sinclair is a very talented author.

The blending of two stories almost a century apart, setting the scene for each plot, the individual lives of each character and then intertwining all of the characters and moulding a very descriptive and emotive story has created a stunning piece of literature worthy of many literary awards and praises.

The depiction of the ballet dancers encapsulates all that it means to be in this profession. From the rigorous training, the physical demands, the friendships, romances, egos and dramas were all played beautifully ensuring the reader is encapsulated in this story. We experience the tragedies of the Russian Revolution, the struggles of these families to the beauty of Paris, the romance and history of this city and the growth and development of some of the worlds greatest performers. Not only from the perspective of the ballet dancers but also the choreographers, music composers, costume designers and seamstresses, I could clearly imagine the life and soul that is put into each ballet performance by these gifted people.

Of particular note, my most enjoyable moment in this book was the performance of the ballet Parade at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. The authors descriptions were splendidly written, particularly with lines such as ‘Massine jumped onto the stage as the Chinese Conjurer, dressed in a spectacular red and gold jacket, his face painted white to the point he was unrecognisable. His torso was stiff, his arms and legs bent to rectangles as he leaped. As the dance proceeded he mimed fire coming out of his mouth and sparking in the air, causing a few in the audience to whisper………………’ My goodness, I can imagine the spectacle before me, how exciting to see.

Alli Sinclair has clearly worked very hard in writing this lovely story and has certainly put a lot of work into the research of the characters. The commitment to research and describing the events as accurately as possible has produced a truly wonderful piece of literature.

[Terri Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite parts of book blogging is interacting with the authors. I have a small amount of awe for all the authors I’ve reviewed. The ones that have been my favorite are the ones who put a little of themselves into the books they write. I haven’t met Alli, but after reading this book, I feel like I have. As I read this book, it was obvious how much heart and soul went into creating this love story.

The first part that impressed me was the dual pov. Telling one story well is hard, and telling two stories well is almost impossible. Sinclair does a fantastic job telling and connecting both stories. I enjoyed reading about Viktoriya and learning about the history of the time period. Sinclair did a good job showing us what life was like without any major info dumps that sound more like a history class than a novel. I enjoyed the interplay between Lily and Yves. I felt their connection and passion. The storyline about Lily and her sister was very realistic and it wasn’t until almost the reveal moment that I figured out the twist in their story (sorry no spoilers here- read the book to see what I mean).

The plot pushed me forward to the end. This was one of those “just one more chapters” kind of books. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. For me it was a strong 4, but the author nailed the dual pov so I've bumped it up to a 5.

**I received a copy of this through NetGalley in exchange for a review**

[Emma Bladen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. It was a happy escape. I love ballet and all varieties of dance and the performing arts, so I really enjoyed being immersed in the colourful world Sinclair creates.

Her story is centred around a famous and beautiful theatre in Paris, home to the Ballet Russes dance company, and the people who work and perform in it.

It is set over two eras: around 1917 and the present, covering two sisters and their great-grandmother who had performed in the theatre decades earlier.

Not only do we care about the characters, but Sinclair lightly sets their life stories against the backdrop of the political turmoil which took place in Europe at the time. Along the way we learn a lot about ballet itself and how it might feel to be a dancer, and we also learn about the real life people who created and worked with the Ballet Russes.

These are famous names such as Nijinsky, Coco Chanel, and Picasso, and Sinclair has done her research. She weaves in the real life stories of these greats and their involvement with this ballet company, with the lives of her own fictional characters, and it works.

An enjoyable and informative read.

[etoile1996 · Rating 3 out of 5]

under the parisian sky is the story of two ballerinas—lily johannson and viktoriya budian. in a contemporary setting lily is still recovering from a horrific car accident that destroyed her future career and killed her fiancé. in the past viktoriya struggles with life in france after fleeing russia and the bolsheviks.

we are meant to draw parallels between lily and viktoriya, and their lives are in some ways connected. but while viktoriya's is imbued with a melancholy hopelessness—i was always waiting for everything to fall apart. and it does. with lily you can see that there is a reason to be hopeful, and that a huge part of that lies with yves rousseau and his insistence in being with her and helping her and letting her help him.

if you like adriana trigiani, then you will like this. it's not really my cup of tea, but it's well-researched and written, so i can appreciate it.

**under the parisian sky will publish on july 25, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/kensington books (lyrical press) in exchange for my honest review.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this so much I've downloaded the Spain Wandering Skies into my e-reader for my holidays. The free prequel was brilliant and the novel did not disappoint in any way. I just loved the way the story was written with two distinct but complimentary time lines and the way the characters who were real people were woven into the fictional story. The wonderful characterisation of the characters and the beauty of Paris 100 years apart was magic. The Ballet Russes which did exist was brilliantly woven into the story and the beautiful ballet references were inspiring.
Definitely one of the most beautiful books I've read and I thank Beauty and Lace so much for the opportunity.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ballet. Music. Heartbreak. Redemption. Once again, Alli Sinclair brings us a compelling story that blends dance, history, adventure and romance with well fleshed out characters and vivid settings. With her trademark dual time lines, Sinclair weaves together history (The Ballet Russe in Paris set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution) with a contemporary storyline and themes of family, love, guilt and what it takes to achieve your dreams. Highly recommended!

[Renée Dahlia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book I've read recently with dual timelines. The format seems to be two interlocking novellas - one with contemporary romance, and the other with historical tragedy.

As a romance reader, this book would have been better without the tragic ending to the historical plot - give me all the HEA! :)

Otherwise, it's a fascinating look at WWI Paris and ballet - even if the war doesn't seem to impact on the characters much at all.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a light read, easy to skim romance set in Paris is two time frames: the present and the early 20th century.There is some fascinating historical information about the Ballets Russes in the historical part which I probably enjoyed the most. The relationship between the two sisters in the present part was poorly explained and tedious.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely magnificent!! It felt like I was there in Paris. Thank you for this wonderful book Alli Sinclair!

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0

~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Love in the city of lights is captured in this vibrant and brilliant novel.

[Jaylee Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crying, omfg Alli it was so beautiful Viktoriya and yves and every bit of these characters had me bawling... I loved it that much that I just couldn't bring myself to finish. Good job Alli