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Thornfield #1
Journey of a Butterfly
Gossip Girl meets Centre Stage in this emotional and intense debut about a ballet prodigy who will have to face the world outside her dance bubble and make a life altering decision between her emotions and her passion.
Losing a bet is one thing; losing yourself is a whole different story.
Katherine Shaw's childish fear got her into making an innocent bet with her best friend, Alex, which landed her at Thornfield Academy when The Royal Ballet was ready to offer her a contract and fulfil her destiny of becoming the youngest prima ballerina.
Instead of facing the competitiveness of the ballet company, Kat has to face the real world and get a taste of everything she was missing out including all the jealousy, fake friends and a life changing first love.
Eventually she needs to decide if her love for Will can overpower her love for ballet and ultimately, she will have to choose between them.
Meanwhile Alex was running away from himself. Choosing Thornfield, the furthest school possible was supposed to give him a fresh start. But new beginnings come at a price.
A coming-of-age novel about friendship, first love and frenemies.
Losing a bet is one thing; losing yourself is a whole different story.
Katherine Shaw's childish fear got her into making an innocent bet with her best friend, Alex, which landed her at Thornfield Academy when The Royal Ballet was ready to offer her a contract and fulfil her destiny of becoming the youngest prima ballerina.
Instead of facing the competitiveness of the ballet company, Kat has to face the real world and get a taste of everything she was missing out including all the jealousy, fake friends and a life changing first love.
Eventually she needs to decide if her love for Will can overpower her love for ballet and ultimately, she will have to choose between them.
Meanwhile Alex was running away from himself. Choosing Thornfield, the furthest school possible was supposed to give him a fresh start. But new beginnings come at a price.
A coming-of-age novel about friendship, first love and frenemies.
- GenresYoung Adult
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2020
3 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Mia Kun
9 books188 followersMia is a New Adult and Sports Romance Author.
She grew up in Budapest, Hungary, but she is currently living in London.
She's been dancing since she was six and that's why ballet is heavily featured in her books. If she is not writing she loves to spend time with her friends and dog, and reading.
Let's connect:
Instagram
instagram.com/miakunauthor
Facebook
facebook.com/miakunauthor
BookBub
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mia-kun
Newsletter
https://miakun.substack.com
She grew up in Budapest, Hungary, but she is currently living in London.
She's been dancing since she was six and that's why ballet is heavily featured in her books. If she is not writing she loves to spend time with her friends and dog, and reading.
Let's connect:
instagram.com/miakunauthor
facebook.com/miakunauthor
BookBub
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mia-kun
Newsletter
https://miakun.substack.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 25, 2020
”Everyone knew who Katherine Shaw was when she was dancing. The core question was, who was Katherine Shaw when she stepped off that stage and left the studio? That was a secret, even for me.”
A YA debut about a teenage girl named Katherine, who dreams of being a professional ballerina. She’s been a bit sheltered and ballet focused her entire life until her best friend and dance partner, Alex, makes a bet with her to finally come with him to Thornfield boarding school. Spoiler alert, he wins said bet, and she goes to Thornfield with him where they train in dance and deal with an extensive cast of characters.
Journey of a Butterfly is a sweet and angsty coming of age. Kat spends her time at Thornfield finding herself and navigating relationships both old and new. I’m going to be honest and say that ballet/dance stories aren’t exactly my jam, but Mia Kun did a great job balancing her main characters love and focus on dance while still showcasing her growth and navigation of teenage life. I was entertained by this story and honestly left surprised at the end. I can’t wait for the next installment!
Definitely recommend to lovers of angsty coming of age YA or even just dance stories!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
A YA debut about a teenage girl named Katherine, who dreams of being a professional ballerina. She’s been a bit sheltered and ballet focused her entire life until her best friend and dance partner, Alex, makes a bet with her to finally come with him to Thornfield boarding school. Spoiler alert, he wins said bet, and she goes to Thornfield with him where they train in dance and deal with an extensive cast of characters.
Journey of a Butterfly is a sweet and angsty coming of age. Kat spends her time at Thornfield finding herself and navigating relationships both old and new. I’m going to be honest and say that ballet/dance stories aren’t exactly my jam, but Mia Kun did a great job balancing her main characters love and focus on dance while still showcasing her growth and navigation of teenage life. I was entertained by this story and honestly left surprised at the end. I can’t wait for the next installment!
Definitely recommend to lovers of angsty coming of age YA or even just dance stories!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
September 16, 2020
I went into this book completely blind and it was a sweet surprise when I found that it is a YA and not romance. I felt bored in the starting 15% but then the story started evolving and I became hooked. This is Katherine Shaw's story which includes friendships, betrayal, growth and finding yourself.
Kat or Kathy is the daughter of a prima ballerina and loves and breathes ballet. However, she loses a bet to her best friend, Alex who wants her go to a boarding school for 2 years with him. So Kat puts her career on hold and decides to go spend some time to experience normal teenage things that she never got to do because of her strict rules and schedule for herself. She basically opens herself up for real life. How will she hold up? Will she be able to know and handle the cruelty and betrayal coming her way or will she crumble under those weights? When secrets come to life, will she be able to forge ahead or will it break her friendships and connections?
I loved that Mia didn't shy away from immersing the proper ballet language, so to say, in this book. The dancing part WAS the book instead of just being a part of it. However, Kat annoyed me a lot. She was all over the place and couldn't decide what she needed to do and acted immature at most times. I honestly wanted to shake her so that she could get some sense into her head.
If you enjoy the dancing world and want to read a beautiful YA which combines it with self growth and friendships, you will want to pick this one up!
Kat or Kathy is the daughter of a prima ballerina and loves and breathes ballet. However, she loses a bet to her best friend, Alex who wants her go to a boarding school for 2 years with him. So Kat puts her career on hold and decides to go spend some time to experience normal teenage things that she never got to do because of her strict rules and schedule for herself. She basically opens herself up for real life. How will she hold up? Will she be able to know and handle the cruelty and betrayal coming her way or will she crumble under those weights? When secrets come to life, will she be able to forge ahead or will it break her friendships and connections?
I loved that Mia didn't shy away from immersing the proper ballet language, so to say, in this book. The dancing part WAS the book instead of just being a part of it. However, Kat annoyed me a lot. She was all over the place and couldn't decide what she needed to do and acted immature at most times. I honestly wanted to shake her so that she could get some sense into her head.
If you enjoy the dancing world and want to read a beautiful YA which combines it with self growth and friendships, you will want to pick this one up!
August 25, 2020
This is the story of the bet that changed everything. Katherine Shaw landed in Thornfield Academy instead of the stage of the Royal Ballet. This coming of age story is filled with drama, romance, and intrigue. How much will Kat give up for the world of dance? Will she choose love or ballet?
The best part of this novel was experiencing the world of dance through Kat's eyes. The author made you feel like you were the one spinning along on a magical journey. You were the one leaping for the stars. It was more of an experience than a read at times.
Great book! I would like to read more by this author.
The best part of this novel was experiencing the world of dance through Kat's eyes. The author made you feel like you were the one spinning along on a magical journey. You were the one leaping for the stars. It was more of an experience than a read at times.
Great book! I would like to read more by this author.
September 9, 2020
‘Neither of us wanted to flip the page, because once we did it, it was forever. And we weren’t prepared for the rest of our lives without each other.’
Journey of a Butterfly is a coming of age,ballet themed, YA romance that is told in sixteen year old Katherine’s POV and is the first book in the series.
I can’t remember the last time I actually enjoyed a YA novel this much and I couldn’t believe that this was Mia’s debut novel! Her writing was so descriptive that I could literally see the dancing scenes playing out and if I wasn’t sure what I move was I YouTubed it just so I can picture it. It had drama and romance and kept me engaged throughout. I cannot wait for the next book in the series coming December 2020.
Please note: This book does end on a cliffhanger.
Journey of a Butterfly is a coming of age,ballet themed, YA romance that is told in sixteen year old Katherine’s POV and is the first book in the series.
I can’t remember the last time I actually enjoyed a YA novel this much and I couldn’t believe that this was Mia’s debut novel! Her writing was so descriptive that I could literally see the dancing scenes playing out and if I wasn’t sure what I move was I YouTubed it just so I can picture it. It had drama and romance and kept me engaged throughout. I cannot wait for the next book in the series coming December 2020.
Please note: This book does end on a cliffhanger.
August 26, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up to 5! This book was such a wonderful surprise! As Mia's debut novel, it is apparent that she has really put her heart and soul into this book. It's a YA story about a dancer who was pretty sheltered but is now experiencing life as a teenager and all that entails. She finds her strength and learns some vaulable life lessons along the way.
I enjoyed how rooted this story is in the dance world while still delivering on the drama and emotional rollercoaster aspects of a good YA read. The book also includes a helpful list of ballet jargon. I loved Mia's descriptive writing and could picture the dance scenes well.
Katherine is a determined character but as a teenager she is still very much finding her way. This book does not lack entertainment in terms of typical teenage drama but I appreciated that the story is more than that - it's also about emotional strength. The ending will leave you anticipating more and anxiously awaiting the next book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Mia!
I enjoyed how rooted this story is in the dance world while still delivering on the drama and emotional rollercoaster aspects of a good YA read. The book also includes a helpful list of ballet jargon. I loved Mia's descriptive writing and could picture the dance scenes well.
Katherine is a determined character but as a teenager she is still very much finding her way. This book does not lack entertainment in terms of typical teenage drama but I appreciated that the story is more than that - it's also about emotional strength. The ending will leave you anticipating more and anxiously awaiting the next book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Mia!
September 5, 2020
ARC Review
This is a novel that you can’t help but relate to. It will manage to touch even the most vulnerable parts of your soul.
‘Journey of a Butterfly’ is Mia Kun’s very first book, her debut novel and an inspiring and beautiful one at that.
This story is not your usual YA novel, it is not an easy-breezy read that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and all peppy as hell.
On the contrary, this book will tear down all your defenses and leave you exposed. The characters are so easy to relate to, it will give you a reality check and even make you question some of your behaviors and aspects of your life.
This book is truly something unique because the emotions these characters have to deal with, the mood swings, the hot and colds and the variation of power in every single feeling passing through them are gonna feel like lighting bolts crossing your body over and over and over.
Katherine is the star and main character of this book, she is a complex young woman who is trying to figure out her place in life.
Just like the title points to, her journey will be like the journey butterflies have to go through to become their best selves and fly freely.
She is driven and determined, an incredibly talented ballerina that tends to live too much in her own little world and sometimes forgets about the real world around her.
She will frustrate you and sometimes even anger you because, just like all of us, in order to overcome her struggles she will make endless mistakes and stupid decisions that have remarkable consequences.
But through it all, you will see Kat change, evolve, and rise. You will see her learn from her mistakes, admit to her faults and apologize, you’ll see her rise above all the teen drama surrounding her and become a mature and focused woman.
There are many characters in this book that you will get to know and understand and sometimes even pity, but for the sake of your reading, I will not go into detail in order to not give away anything.
This book doesn’t feel like a debut novel, it is very well written and it flows easily.
The characters are well defined and all very different from each other, all struggling to find themselves and survive some of the hardest years of their lives.
The world-building was exquisite, especially when it came to actual ballet because even for someone like me (who knows nothing about it or its terminology) was extremely easy to follow, imagine and understand!
I need to warn you that this book does contain some scenes that could be triggering so please read at your own caution.
Also, this book does end in a cliffhanger so get ready for that!
I cannot wait to see what comes next for these characters and what else this incredible new author will bring to the world!
This is a novel that you can’t help but relate to. It will manage to touch even the most vulnerable parts of your soul.
‘Journey of a Butterfly’ is Mia Kun’s very first book, her debut novel and an inspiring and beautiful one at that.
This story is not your usual YA novel, it is not an easy-breezy read that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and all peppy as hell.
On the contrary, this book will tear down all your defenses and leave you exposed. The characters are so easy to relate to, it will give you a reality check and even make you question some of your behaviors and aspects of your life.
This book is truly something unique because the emotions these characters have to deal with, the mood swings, the hot and colds and the variation of power in every single feeling passing through them are gonna feel like lighting bolts crossing your body over and over and over.
Katherine is the star and main character of this book, she is a complex young woman who is trying to figure out her place in life.
Just like the title points to, her journey will be like the journey butterflies have to go through to become their best selves and fly freely.
She is driven and determined, an incredibly talented ballerina that tends to live too much in her own little world and sometimes forgets about the real world around her.
She will frustrate you and sometimes even anger you because, just like all of us, in order to overcome her struggles she will make endless mistakes and stupid decisions that have remarkable consequences.
But through it all, you will see Kat change, evolve, and rise. You will see her learn from her mistakes, admit to her faults and apologize, you’ll see her rise above all the teen drama surrounding her and become a mature and focused woman.
There are many characters in this book that you will get to know and understand and sometimes even pity, but for the sake of your reading, I will not go into detail in order to not give away anything.
This book doesn’t feel like a debut novel, it is very well written and it flows easily.
The characters are well defined and all very different from each other, all struggling to find themselves and survive some of the hardest years of their lives.
The world-building was exquisite, especially when it came to actual ballet because even for someone like me (who knows nothing about it or its terminology) was extremely easy to follow, imagine and understand!
I need to warn you that this book does contain some scenes that could be triggering so please read at your own caution.
Also, this book does end in a cliffhanger so get ready for that!
I cannot wait to see what comes next for these characters and what else this incredible new author will bring to the world!
August 24, 2020
This is Mia Kun's debut novel, Journey of a Butterfly, a story centred around school & ballet. And I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed it! I've read plenty of YA's before but never novel so heavily influenced by dance, so when the author reached out and asked if I would like to be apart of her ARC team, I very excitedly said yes!
Losing a bet is one thing; losing yourself is a whole different story.
Katherine Shaw's childish fear got her into making an innocent bet with her best friend, Alex, which landed her at Thornfield Academy when The Royal Ballet was ready to offer her a contract and fulfil her destiny of becoming the youngest prima ballerina.
Instead of facing the competitiveness of the ballet company, Kat has to face the real world and get a taste of everything she was missing out including all the jealousy, fake friends and a life changing first love.
Eventually she needs to decide if her love for Will can overpower her love for ballet and ultimately, she will have to choose between them.
Meanwhile, Alex was running away from himself. Choosing Thornfield, the furthest school possible was supposed to give him a fresh start. But new beginnings come at a price.
The story follows Kat, a 16 year old girl set to become the youngest prima ballerina in the Royal Ballet company. But after loosing nationals to her best friend, winds up at Thornfield boarding school. Priviously Kat and her best friend Alex have been home schooled so that they could focus their energy entirely on ballet, so starting a "regular" school with "regular" non dancer people is a huge adjustment for them, especially Kat. But Thornfield isn't s totally normal school as it has a dance program that runs through all years, and Kat and Alex's new teacher is none other than the famous Nikolaev Demidov.
Kun packs a lot of drama and rollercoaster-of-emotions in to this beautiful novel that is so whole heartedly a love letter to Ballet. You get a true sense of the author's personal love and devotion to dance. At times I wanted to tell Alexa to play me some Lewis Capaldi so I could dance around my house. I've always been fascinated by dance and was so happy that Kun gives the reader a little glossary of ballet terms at the start of the book, as she doesn't shy away from using dance terminology which I greatly admire.
During Kat's time at Thornfield she encounters so much bitchiness and sabotage from people who claim they want to be friends and finds herself quite often at the centre of the rumour mill. She is one of the most famous young ballerina's in the industry so she had a huge dance following so every thing she does is scrutinised through social media.
Before she knows it she's on the recieving end of extreme jealousy, hurt (both physically and mentally) and betrayal but also finds her first love (awww 🥰).
I don't want to give too much of the plot away but all in all I really enjoyed the storyline. I did find a few niggly things like we don't actually know where about's Thornfield Academy is, somewhere in the south west of England on the coast, maybe Cornwall? And the conversation between characters didn't always flow perfectly to my personal liking but considering this is a debut novel and Indie publication I honestly really enjoyed it and cannot wait to see what happens next with these characters. I'll definitely be waiting for the second installment!
Losing a bet is one thing; losing yourself is a whole different story.
Katherine Shaw's childish fear got her into making an innocent bet with her best friend, Alex, which landed her at Thornfield Academy when The Royal Ballet was ready to offer her a contract and fulfil her destiny of becoming the youngest prima ballerina.
Instead of facing the competitiveness of the ballet company, Kat has to face the real world and get a taste of everything she was missing out including all the jealousy, fake friends and a life changing first love.
Eventually she needs to decide if her love for Will can overpower her love for ballet and ultimately, she will have to choose between them.
Meanwhile, Alex was running away from himself. Choosing Thornfield, the furthest school possible was supposed to give him a fresh start. But new beginnings come at a price.
The story follows Kat, a 16 year old girl set to become the youngest prima ballerina in the Royal Ballet company. But after loosing nationals to her best friend, winds up at Thornfield boarding school. Priviously Kat and her best friend Alex have been home schooled so that they could focus their energy entirely on ballet, so starting a "regular" school with "regular" non dancer people is a huge adjustment for them, especially Kat. But Thornfield isn't s totally normal school as it has a dance program that runs through all years, and Kat and Alex's new teacher is none other than the famous Nikolaev Demidov.
Kun packs a lot of drama and rollercoaster-of-emotions in to this beautiful novel that is so whole heartedly a love letter to Ballet. You get a true sense of the author's personal love and devotion to dance. At times I wanted to tell Alexa to play me some Lewis Capaldi so I could dance around my house. I've always been fascinated by dance and was so happy that Kun gives the reader a little glossary of ballet terms at the start of the book, as she doesn't shy away from using dance terminology which I greatly admire.
During Kat's time at Thornfield she encounters so much bitchiness and sabotage from people who claim they want to be friends and finds herself quite often at the centre of the rumour mill. She is one of the most famous young ballerina's in the industry so she had a huge dance following so every thing she does is scrutinised through social media.
Before she knows it she's on the recieving end of extreme jealousy, hurt (both physically and mentally) and betrayal but also finds her first love (awww 🥰).
I don't want to give too much of the plot away but all in all I really enjoyed the storyline. I did find a few niggly things like we don't actually know where about's Thornfield Academy is, somewhere in the south west of England on the coast, maybe Cornwall? And the conversation between characters didn't always flow perfectly to my personal liking but considering this is a debut novel and Indie publication I honestly really enjoyed it and cannot wait to see what happens next with these characters. I'll definitely be waiting for the second installment!
September 5, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
I will admit the first 20% of the book, I had a hard time reading. Just because the story wasn’t really keeping my interest. However, all of a sudden that all changed. Slowly but surely I started to feel a crescendo building within the story and I couldn’t help but become entrance. Knowing that something big was going to happen.
Kat having had her whole life revolve around ballet, steps into the real world when she sets to attend boarding school (after losing a bet) with her best friend Alex.
Everything she sees, learns and experiences (from outside the dance world) was definitely like watching a rollercoaster. My heart was definitely breaking to see her go through some of the things she did. And to see it all break her down and apart definitely had me close to tears.
I just wanted to give her a hug and tell her everything will be alright.
One thing I will say is I hated Belinda so very much. I don’t think I have ever hated a character so much in a book, like I did with her. She has me so frustrated that I wanted to scream!
A beautiful story with so many emotions, feelings and drama. You could definitely tell Mia put her heart and soul into this story. The story definitely rang true to the title as you get to see Kat go from a caterpillar to a fully fledged butterfly, while navigating outside her world of ballet.
Stepping into the ballet world was something new to me. I mean I have read books about ballet, however none of those books compared to Mia Kun’s book. This story definitely focused more on the ballet aspect with the jargon explaining the terms of the dance moves. Creating many beautiful images in your head of it all happening. Though I will admit being a ballet novice, I did have to search up videos to see how some of the dance moves actually looked/turned out. And it was just as beautifully described in the story.
The cliffhanger though, Holy Hell I definitely did not see that coming. I’m now even more excited for the second book to be released and see what happens/is to come.
I will admit the first 20% of the book, I had a hard time reading. Just because the story wasn’t really keeping my interest. However, all of a sudden that all changed. Slowly but surely I started to feel a crescendo building within the story and I couldn’t help but become entrance. Knowing that something big was going to happen.
Kat having had her whole life revolve around ballet, steps into the real world when she sets to attend boarding school (after losing a bet) with her best friend Alex.
Everything she sees, learns and experiences (from outside the dance world) was definitely like watching a rollercoaster. My heart was definitely breaking to see her go through some of the things she did. And to see it all break her down and apart definitely had me close to tears.
I just wanted to give her a hug and tell her everything will be alright.
One thing I will say is I hated Belinda so very much. I don’t think I have ever hated a character so much in a book, like I did with her. She has me so frustrated that I wanted to scream!
A beautiful story with so many emotions, feelings and drama. You could definitely tell Mia put her heart and soul into this story. The story definitely rang true to the title as you get to see Kat go from a caterpillar to a fully fledged butterfly, while navigating outside her world of ballet.
Stepping into the ballet world was something new to me. I mean I have read books about ballet, however none of those books compared to Mia Kun’s book. This story definitely focused more on the ballet aspect with the jargon explaining the terms of the dance moves. Creating many beautiful images in your head of it all happening. Though I will admit being a ballet novice, I did have to search up videos to see how some of the dance moves actually looked/turned out. And it was just as beautifully described in the story.
The cliffhanger though, Holy Hell I definitely did not see that coming. I’m now even more excited for the second book to be released and see what happens/is to come.
August 25, 2020
What an amazing debut...Mia Kun has an incredible future ahead of her and I can’t wait to read every word she writes!
In her debut YA novel, it’s apparent that she put her heart, and I’d bet some real life experiences, into this story. Don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with the dance world because I’m sure not and it certainly didn’t affect my enjoyment of this book at all. I’m definitely a fan!
Katherine Shaw wants nothing more than to be a prima ballerina, and she wants her best friend and dance partner, Alex, by her side. However, the path to her dream becomes an unexpectedly bumpy one.
When Alex forces Kat out of her sheltered life to attend a boarding school for dancers and athletes with him, priorities and their friendship are tested. Hoping to be pushed physically, it seems that she’s being pushed emotionally more than anything!
Navigating dance, school, friends, enemies, and boys would be difficult for any teenager, but for Kat, who’s been so sheltered, it was a nightmare. Gossip, social media bullying, wanting to fit in when all she’s ever done is stand out is a hard road to navigate. There’s teenage drama to the max, but the intense emotional roller coaster goes so much deeper. Sacrifices, mistakes, mistrust, jealousy, betrayal, bad decisions and the consequences that follow have Kat floundering...hang on for the ride!
Facing fears and finding her strength, she’s finally able to fully spread her wings and fly! While the ending isn’t an unhappy one, there’s also a lot left to see where it goes and some unanswered questions. I wasn’t prepared for the cliffhanger because there’d been so much turmoil, so much angst, so much drama, so much meanness, I just needed this story to be wrapped up in a big happily ever after bow. I’ll definitely be over here waiting for Book 2!!
In her debut YA novel, it’s apparent that she put her heart, and I’d bet some real life experiences, into this story. Don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with the dance world because I’m sure not and it certainly didn’t affect my enjoyment of this book at all. I’m definitely a fan!
Katherine Shaw wants nothing more than to be a prima ballerina, and she wants her best friend and dance partner, Alex, by her side. However, the path to her dream becomes an unexpectedly bumpy one.
When Alex forces Kat out of her sheltered life to attend a boarding school for dancers and athletes with him, priorities and their friendship are tested. Hoping to be pushed physically, it seems that she’s being pushed emotionally more than anything!
Navigating dance, school, friends, enemies, and boys would be difficult for any teenager, but for Kat, who’s been so sheltered, it was a nightmare. Gossip, social media bullying, wanting to fit in when all she’s ever done is stand out is a hard road to navigate. There’s teenage drama to the max, but the intense emotional roller coaster goes so much deeper. Sacrifices, mistakes, mistrust, jealousy, betrayal, bad decisions and the consequences that follow have Kat floundering...hang on for the ride!
Facing fears and finding her strength, she’s finally able to fully spread her wings and fly! While the ending isn’t an unhappy one, there’s also a lot left to see where it goes and some unanswered questions. I wasn’t prepared for the cliffhanger because there’d been so much turmoil, so much angst, so much drama, so much meanness, I just needed this story to be wrapped up in a big happily ever after bow. I’ll definitely be over here waiting for Book 2!!
September 20, 2020
What a captivating story filled with emotion.
From the start, I was drawn to the story that took me on an emotional ride.
Journey of a Butterfly is a sweet, and angsty YA/NA Katherine, who dreams of being a professional ballerina. Her life mostly revolves around dancing until Alex- her best friend and dance partner- makes a bet with her. So because of said bet, she goes with him to Thornfield boarding school. Their love for ballet is never forgotten, but now they have to deal and adapt to this new environment and people.
In Thornfield, Kat finds herself and navigating through relationships and emotions. Throughout, we saw Kat's growth as a charter and while balancing all the teenage drama. And an ending I did not see coming.
Even though I struggled with understanding some of the technical dance terminologies, it did not take away from the story that was well written and easy to follow.
From the start, I was drawn to the story that took me on an emotional ride.
Journey of a Butterfly is a sweet, and angsty YA/NA Katherine, who dreams of being a professional ballerina. Her life mostly revolves around dancing until Alex- her best friend and dance partner- makes a bet with her. So because of said bet, she goes with him to Thornfield boarding school. Their love for ballet is never forgotten, but now they have to deal and adapt to this new environment and people.
In Thornfield, Kat finds herself and navigating through relationships and emotions. Throughout, we saw Kat's growth as a charter and while balancing all the teenage drama. And an ending I did not see coming.
Even though I struggled with understanding some of the technical dance terminologies, it did not take away from the story that was well written and easy to follow.
April 10, 2021
Mesmerizing, sweet & a lil' emotional, this book'll always have a place in my heart!!
Everything in my life was perfect.........until it wasn't.
High-schooler Kath Shaw's used to perfect. In fact, nothing in her life's short of perfect.
A bet was lost, and a life was changed......forever.
Whether it was for the good or the bad, only Kath knows the answer.
Bullies, jealous girls, genuine friends-high school gave Katherine Shaw to actually facethe real world and experience a normal life.
Bets were made, friends were lost-new loves began, and debts settled.
Belinda tried to destroy her, but she was a Shaw-and a shaw doesn't stay back.
She fights. She bites. And she wins.
Buckle up, guys, hurrican Katherine's on her way.
TBH, I actually wasn't very enthusiastic when i started reading this book-arc reading does that to you. The first quarter of the book was kinda boring, but it slowly picked up its pace-and turned out to be amazing!! This book's a sweet ya & those of you who AREN'T big fans of ya's, I'd suggest not indulging in this one, 'cause this book's really good, and I wouldn't like hearing negative comments about it. Just saying.
It ends with a minor cliffhanger, and overall, I'd give this book 4.5 stars->rounded off to 5!!
Everything in my life was perfect.........until it wasn't.
High-schooler Kath Shaw's used to perfect. In fact, nothing in her life's short of perfect.
A bet was lost, and a life was changed......forever.
Whether it was for the good or the bad, only Kath knows the answer.
Bullies, jealous girls, genuine friends-high school gave Katherine Shaw to actually facethe real world and experience a normal life.
Bets were made, friends were lost-new loves began, and debts settled.
Belinda tried to destroy her, but she was a Shaw-and a shaw doesn't stay back.
She fights. She bites. And she wins.
Buckle up, guys, hurrican Katherine's on her way.
TBH, I actually wasn't very enthusiastic when i started reading this book-arc reading does that to you. The first quarter of the book was kinda boring, but it slowly picked up its pace-and turned out to be amazing!! This book's a sweet ya & those of you who AREN'T big fans of ya's, I'd suggest not indulging in this one, 'cause this book's really good, and I wouldn't like hearing negative comments about it. Just saying.
It ends with a minor cliffhanger, and overall, I'd give this book 4.5 stars->rounded off to 5!!
August 16, 2020
This is Mia Kun’s debut YA novel and it’s apparent that she put her heart, and I’d bet some real life experiences, into this story. Don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with the dance world because I’m sure not and it certainly didn’t affect my enjoyment of this book at all. I’m definitely a fan!
Katherine Shaw wants nothing more than to be a prima ballerina, and she wants her best friend and dance partner, Alex, by her side. However, the path to her dream becomes an unexpectedly bumpy one.
When Alex forces Kat out of her sheltered life to attend a boarding school for dancers and athletes with him, priorities and their friendship are tested. Hoping to be pushed physically, it seems that she’s being pushed emotionally more than anything!
Navigating dance, school, friends, enemies, and boys would be difficult for any teenager, but for Kat, who’s been so sheltered, it was a nightmare. Gossip, social media bullying, wanting to fit in when all she’s ever done is stand out is a hard road to navigate. There’s teenage drama to the max, but the intense emotional roller coaster goes so much deeper. Sacrifices, mistakes, mistrust, jealousy, betrayal, bad decisions and the consequences that follow have Kat floundering...hang on for the ride!
Facing fears and finding her strength, she’s finally able to fully spread her wings and fly! While the ending isn’t an unhappy one, there’s also a lot left to see where it goes and some unanswered questions. I wasn’t prepared for the cliffhanger because there’d been so much turmoil, so much angst, so much drama, so much meanness, I just needed this story to be wrapped up in a big happily ever after bow. I’ll definitely be over here waiting for Book 2!!
Katherine Shaw wants nothing more than to be a prima ballerina, and she wants her best friend and dance partner, Alex, by her side. However, the path to her dream becomes an unexpectedly bumpy one.
When Alex forces Kat out of her sheltered life to attend a boarding school for dancers and athletes with him, priorities and their friendship are tested. Hoping to be pushed physically, it seems that she’s being pushed emotionally more than anything!
Navigating dance, school, friends, enemies, and boys would be difficult for any teenager, but for Kat, who’s been so sheltered, it was a nightmare. Gossip, social media bullying, wanting to fit in when all she’s ever done is stand out is a hard road to navigate. There’s teenage drama to the max, but the intense emotional roller coaster goes so much deeper. Sacrifices, mistakes, mistrust, jealousy, betrayal, bad decisions and the consequences that follow have Kat floundering...hang on for the ride!
Facing fears and finding her strength, she’s finally able to fully spread her wings and fly! While the ending isn’t an unhappy one, there’s also a lot left to see where it goes and some unanswered questions. I wasn’t prepared for the cliffhanger because there’d been so much turmoil, so much angst, so much drama, so much meanness, I just needed this story to be wrapped up in a big happily ever after bow. I’ll definitely be over here waiting for Book 2!!
Read
August 16, 2020Gah, this is just such a beautiful book. I really love stories and movies that revolve around dancing, but I feel as if they’ve become few and far between lately, so it’s always so exciting when I happen upon a new one! Journey of a Butterfly is Mia Kun’s debut novel and it definitely proves that she’s one to watch out for! I really enjoyed every bit of this read and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
What I love most about this book is that it doesn’t shy away from technical dance terminology and descriptions. I know this may sound silly, but I love that it is truly a love letter to dance and it’s not just a “filler” for the story. But the story is also so much more. And there is PLENTY of drama to be found in it! But it’s also not always the messy “fun” kind of drama. Kun delves deeper into the truly hurtful things that people can do to one another and provide and insight into just how emotionally draining striving for your dreams can be.
This is just such an amazing story about strength, and not just physical strength but emotional as well. It will draw you into the story and will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. And it will also leave you wanting and needing more. I can’t wait to see what Kun comes up with next and what happens next to these characters.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
What I love most about this book is that it doesn’t shy away from technical dance terminology and descriptions. I know this may sound silly, but I love that it is truly a love letter to dance and it’s not just a “filler” for the story. But the story is also so much more. And there is PLENTY of drama to be found in it! But it’s also not always the messy “fun” kind of drama. Kun delves deeper into the truly hurtful things that people can do to one another and provide and insight into just how emotionally draining striving for your dreams can be.
This is just such an amazing story about strength, and not just physical strength but emotional as well. It will draw you into the story and will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. And it will also leave you wanting and needing more. I can’t wait to see what Kun comes up with next and what happens next to these characters.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
September 3, 2020
So this book threw me through some loops I didn't expect! I went into this blindly and let me tell you I fell in love and just went through the journey the characters were going through. Kat, the perfect ballerina that doesn't know how to act in normal situations. How to make new friends, who to trust. But at the same time she's a damn good dancer and has the ego for it as well, but wants friends more. So you see her grow slowly into the person she is meant to be. Honestly i had my moment where i litteraly screamed out loud and was so frustrated with her. But at the end i felt like i had to go through that as well. ALEX the best friend she grew up with since she was 10. HE IS EVERYTHING. The friendship between them is undeniable and it just is. That kinda love is a different kind and it will be there forever. Then we have Will the guy who helps her grow into the person Kat becomes. I liked him for her and I think he helped her a great deal! I have to warn you reading the last page kinda fucked me over..... the cliffhanger was one I was not expecting at all so while I'm writing this im still MAD!!! LIKE HOW COULD YOU?! but honestly this was a GREAT surprise and I can't wait to read the next one!!
October 20, 2020
4.5 Star Read
“You don’t always get what you wish for; sometimes you get something else which is even better”
The title of the book fits the plot perfectly. It is about a sheltered ballet prodigy Kat and her journey in life where she experiences the reality of friendship, love, betrayal, heartbreak. It is woven beautifully with a good load of drama. And all along her journey she hangs on to her love of ballet that’s what makes this book special. I am not a huge fan of YA in general but this one made me fall in love with it because of its uniqueness. The character dynamics in the book was so awesome. Loved Mia’s style of writing. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. And Yes it ends with a cliffy. If you want a good high school book with a huge pinch of ballet drama then what are you waiting for? Go read this book soon.
“You don’t always get what you wish for; sometimes you get something else which is even better”
The title of the book fits the plot perfectly. It is about a sheltered ballet prodigy Kat and her journey in life where she experiences the reality of friendship, love, betrayal, heartbreak. It is woven beautifully with a good load of drama. And all along her journey she hangs on to her love of ballet that’s what makes this book special. I am not a huge fan of YA in general but this one made me fall in love with it because of its uniqueness. The character dynamics in the book was so awesome. Loved Mia’s style of writing. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. And Yes it ends with a cliffy. If you want a good high school book with a huge pinch of ballet drama then what are you waiting for? Go read this book soon.
October 17, 2020
Journey of a Butterfly is a very well told YA story revolving around a teenage ballerina, Katherine. Katherine puts her dreams of a professional dance career on hold to attend Thornfield boarding school with her dance partner/best friend, Alex, after losing a bet to him. Katherine's life has been sheltered and focused entirely on her ballet, so being thrown into a whole new world, she's left feeling uncertain and fears that she's losing Alex. He wants just two years to be a normal teenager, but Katherine isn't sure that Alex will want to remain her dance partner after he gets a taste of the real world.
True to life, Katherine begins to discover herself while building relationships with some new friends but quickly learns that some friendships can't be trusted at all. She must decide who she can rely on as she faces jealousy, bullying and the demands put on her body by her craft. This is a sweet and angsty read with a focus on ballet. The ending left me at a loss for words, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
True to life, Katherine begins to discover herself while building relationships with some new friends but quickly learns that some friendships can't be trusted at all. She must decide who she can rely on as she faces jealousy, bullying and the demands put on her body by her craft. This is a sweet and angsty read with a focus on ballet. The ending left me at a loss for words, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
August 25, 2020
(4.2 Stars)
Debut YA Novel from Mia Kun!
I never read a book like this before, with Ballet and romance all together. It's been a while since I've read a YA novel and I'm so glad I got to read this one.
This book was such a great read! It gave me a pause on what my life was and showed me a new world with first love, ballet, and drama. Lots and lots of drama.
This world that Mia wrote was one of the most fun I've dived into. The story was well written and the outcome of each event was well introduced.
I love getting to know more about the ballet world and about these characters.
These characters instantly grew on me with each passing chapter. The character arcs were amazing and this was such an enjoyable read!
And Alex. I loved Katherina and Alex's friendship. And the romance of Katherine and her love interest (Won't name cause spoilers) was amazing.
This is a great coming of age YA ballet debut novel by Mia Kun!
*ARC PROVIDED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*
Debut YA Novel from Mia Kun!
I never read a book like this before, with Ballet and romance all together. It's been a while since I've read a YA novel and I'm so glad I got to read this one.
This book was such a great read! It gave me a pause on what my life was and showed me a new world with first love, ballet, and drama. Lots and lots of drama.
This world that Mia wrote was one of the most fun I've dived into. The story was well written and the outcome of each event was well introduced.
I love getting to know more about the ballet world and about these characters.
These characters instantly grew on me with each passing chapter. The character arcs were amazing and this was such an enjoyable read!
And Alex. I loved Katherina and Alex's friendship. And the romance of Katherine and her love interest (Won't name cause spoilers) was amazing.
This is a great coming of age YA ballet debut novel by Mia Kun!
*ARC PROVIDED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*
August 25, 2020
“Everyone knew who Katherine Shaw was when she was dancing. The core question was, who was Katherine Shaw when she stepped off that stage and left the studio? That was a secret, even for me.”
Stop whatever you are doing right now and go read this book! It’s an amazing story of self discovery, and first love, and best friends and it ends on a cliffhanger from hell!
It’s like watching a movie and feeling like your apart of it at the same time!
I loved Kat, Alex, Seth and Will !! When the truth comes to light about secrets Alex has been keeping from his best friend and dance partner, Kat started questioning everything !
In the dance works there aren’t just bullies there are complete psychopaths! Kat fell victim more than once! I really hope Belinda gets what’s coming to her in book 2..
I loved every word of this book! Please do yourself a favor and read it today! It’s available on amazon and kindle unlimited! Trust me you won’t be disappointed!
Stop whatever you are doing right now and go read this book! It’s an amazing story of self discovery, and first love, and best friends and it ends on a cliffhanger from hell!
It’s like watching a movie and feeling like your apart of it at the same time!
I loved Kat, Alex, Seth and Will !! When the truth comes to light about secrets Alex has been keeping from his best friend and dance partner, Kat started questioning everything !
In the dance works there aren’t just bullies there are complete psychopaths! Kat fell victim more than once! I really hope Belinda gets what’s coming to her in book 2..
I loved every word of this book! Please do yourself a favor and read it today! It’s available on amazon and kindle unlimited! Trust me you won’t be disappointed!
September 26, 2020
This is a sweet and intense coming of age YA book. Centered in the world of dance, the story follows Kat Shaw as she comes into her own as a dancer and as a adult. It takes awhile for her to realize that she needs to step out on her own and away from her parents and her life-long friend Alex. Navigating mean girls, first love, etc. she comes into her own.
I was asked by the author to read and give a honest review.
I was asked by the author to read and give a honest review.
October 17, 2020
‼️‼️One of the Best ‼️‼️
I am so excited for Mia Kun and her recently published book, Journey of a Butterfly. This was such a feel-good story for me, and it was one that was memorable!
If you are looking for a sweet and fun read, try Journey of a Butterfly! Read about the drama and trouble of dancer Kathrine and her best friend Alex. You won’t be disappointed with what happens at their ballet school 😍
I am so excited for Mia Kun and her recently published book, Journey of a Butterfly. This was such a feel-good story for me, and it was one that was memorable!
If you are looking for a sweet and fun read, try Journey of a Butterfly! Read about the drama and trouble of dancer Kathrine and her best friend Alex. You won’t be disappointed with what happens at their ballet school 😍
August 29, 2020
Journey of a Butterfly by Mia Kun is a coming-of-age novel about friendship, first love and frenemies. This is Mia's debut novel and she knocked it out of the park. I absolutely loved Katherine and Alex friendship. The book does end on a cliffhanger so I can't wait for Mia to announce the release of the next book.
August 25, 2020
For this being a debut YA ballet story I wasn't sure what to expect I found myself so invested in Kat's journey to advance her dancing and follow in her mother's foot steps .
And she does this after a slight injury costing her a bet with her best friend Alex and duet partner.
So they are off to boarding school where Kat learns you have to be careful who you invest your time and interest in and ultimately you see her struggle with things that transpired but immense character growth from her with good friends suggestions .
But I like that ultimately she makes her own decisions that leads her to the path she wants in her career .
The ending is the type of ending I love I am so impressed I have to say this was my most unexpected 5 🌟 read in 2020 thus far ....
And she does this after a slight injury costing her a bet with her best friend Alex and duet partner.
So they are off to boarding school where Kat learns you have to be careful who you invest your time and interest in and ultimately you see her struggle with things that transpired but immense character growth from her with good friends suggestions .
But I like that ultimately she makes her own decisions that leads her to the path she wants in her career .
The ending is the type of ending I love I am so impressed I have to say this was my most unexpected 5 🌟 read in 2020 thus far ....
September 19, 2020
Great book! I know Mia since we were small kids and her passion for ballet was clear at that age. The book has such detailed descriptions, you could just close your eyes and imagine the whole show in front of you. Its a book you start and can't stop reading. Truly inspiring and I can only recommend it!
September 14, 2020
This was a beautiful book which i really enjoyed. It had a great plot and amazingly written characters
Mia you made the book come to life with every word and i am so thankful i got to read it. Thank you for sharing your creativity with the world🌸🌸🌸
Mia you made the book come to life with every word and i am so thankful i got to read it. Thank you for sharing your creativity with the world🌸🌸🌸
August 26, 2020
You know a book is good when you finish it and then you just sit there and go over everything you just finished reading. You break down each feeling/emotion you experienced yet you still aren’t quite sure how exactly to put everything into words. That’s where I am right now with this story.
When I first started I got nervous because there were a lot of proper ballet terms and I’m definitely not a dancer but I pushed through my doubts and uncovered an amazing story about Katherine and Alex and all of their “friends”. I highlighted the heck out of so many parts because they literally hit me in all my feels. I felt both her doubts and pain...her accomplishments and acceptance. So much goodness in a debut novel. I can’t wait to read more.
When I first started I got nervous because there were a lot of proper ballet terms and I’m definitely not a dancer but I pushed through my doubts and uncovered an amazing story about Katherine and Alex and all of their “friends”. I highlighted the heck out of so many parts because they literally hit me in all my feels. I felt both her doubts and pain...her accomplishments and acceptance. So much goodness in a debut novel. I can’t wait to read more.
October 22, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book despite initial concern that it could be too much ballet jargon or too much "typical teenage romance story". Nothing further from reality. The author manages to engage the reader since the beginning by creating a story around Kat (the main character) which includes ballet, friends (and frenemies), best friend, boyfriend and lovers in equal parts, all of them developed in order to make the whole story interesting, fun and learning (although I knew nothing about ballet, I learned about feelings, fears, motivation and struggles of people who practice it through Kat and her friends). Moreover, the story is not only based around Kat and her lovers, but it develops more characters in a way that makes the story interesting not only to know more about Kat, but of some of her friends who do not seem important at the beginning and they end up arising and having an important role.
In conclusion, I really recommend this book because it creates a very entertaining story, it distinguishes from other YA but focusing not only on the main character and her relationships but also on other characters (friends, professors, family...) and because it provides a different perspective on ballet, combining technicalities (without making it boring), feelings (making it very interesting) and styles of dancers in a way that the reader sees that art with different eyes after reading this book without being lost or bored.
In conclusion, I really recommend this book because it creates a very entertaining story, it distinguishes from other YA but focusing not only on the main character and her relationships but also on other characters (friends, professors, family...) and because it provides a different perspective on ballet, combining technicalities (without making it boring), feelings (making it very interesting) and styles of dancers in a way that the reader sees that art with different eyes after reading this book without being lost or bored.
January 4, 2021
This book caught my interest from the first pages, it has a lot of adolescent drama, fake friendships and characters that are worth hating, a beautiful friendship, a very tender first love and an ending that left me speechless as well as broke my heart.
The main characters in this story are Katherine & Alex, they have been best friends since they were 10 years old, the same time they have been a ballet couple and practicing together. Due to various circumstances, they end up experiencing "normal teenage life" at Thornfield, a boarding school that is not specialized in ballet, but has a program in which both were accepted.
I really liked both characters, I think they have a very nice friendship and complement each other perfectly, one of my favorite things about it is the support, the constant concern, their wishes that the other be happy. I found Kat a very interesting girl, she does not have the typical friendly personality of the leading girl, she is aware of her strengths and talents in ballet, but she is also an insecure and vulnerable person, although she does not want to show it. I really like the way she decides to deal with Belinda 's jealousy towards her, and even though she makes a lot of bad choices throughout the book, it makes more real to me.
Another aspect that I fall in love with is the discovery of Will as his first love, I really enjoyed the little initial approaches, his first confessions, and his date, the way in which he is always willing to support her and doesn't believe any of the rumors about Kat at Thornfield. Undoubtedly what I liked most about Will was that he understood her devotion and love for ballet and her friendship with Alex.
On the other hand, Alex seemed like a funny guy, a bit mysterious in some ways and very confused about his life and his future. I really like that he doesn't hide the dislike he feels towards Belinda, that he is always there when Kat needs him and is his unconditional person in any situation. I love that he also finds love in Ava, their relationship seems very simple and beautiful, in addition to making their circle of friends go beyond the people of the ballet. I really like that Mia Kun has given Alex other interests besides ballet, such as numbers, (or Seth his ability with computers), I think that also contributes to the complexity and growth of the characters.
Undoubtedly the plot of the ballet is the most important, discovering that Alex and Kat have completely opposite futures planned in this regard was a very big surprise, but I think it is handled in a wonderful, realistic way, with much drama and with an outcome that ultimately did not expect. But in addition to ballet, Journey of a Butterfly has a lot of drama coming from the secondary characters: Belinda is the bad girl who does everything she can to destroy Katherine, in addition to the dilemma she has to face when choosing between Will and the ballet. And the huge secret that Alex has hidden from his best friend for six years, it is definitely all worthy of a television show, which I would gladly watch.
Journey of a Butterfly has everything to be an amazing read, and best of all, it achieves it, its characters are excellently constructed, Alex and Kat change and evolve in an obvious way from the beginning to the last pages of the book, and has an ending that tears you apart but makes you want to know what will happen next. A highly recommended reading.
Many thanks to Books and Moods for providing me with a copy of this wonderful book.
🇪🇸
Este libro atrapó mi interés desde las primeras páginas, tiene mucho drama adolescente, amistades falsas y personajes que son dignos de odiar, una amistad hermosa, un primer amor de los más tierno y un final que me dejo sin palabras a la vez que rompía mi corazón.
Los personajes principales en esta historia son Katherine & Alex, ellos son los mejores amigos desde que tenían 10 años, el mismo tiempo que llevan siendo pareja de ballet y practicando juntos. Por diversas circunstancias terminan experimentando “la vida normal de adolescentes” en Thornfield, un internado que no es especializado en ballet, pero tiene un programa en el que ambos fueron aceptados.
Ambos personajes me gustaron mucho, creo que tienen una amistad muy linda y se complementan a la perfección, una de mis cosas favoritas al respecto es el apoyo, preocupación constante y deseos de que el otro sea feliz. Kat me pareció una chica muy interesante, no tiene la típica personalidad amable de la chica protagonista, es consiente de sus fortalezas y talentos en el ballet, pero también es una persona inseguro y vulnerable, aunque no quiera demostrarlo. Me gusta mucho la forma en la que decide tratar los celos que Belinda siente por ella, y aunque toma muchas malas desiciones a lo largo del libro, eso hace que todo sea más real para mi.
Otro aspecto que me enamoro es el descubrimiento de Will como su primer amor, disfrute mucho de los pequeños acercamientos iniciales, sus primeras confesiones, y su cita, la forma en la que el siempre está dispuesto a apoyarla y en que no cree ninguno de los rumors que se dicen sobre Kat en Thornfield. Sin dudas lo que más me gusto de Will fue que comprendiera la devoción y amor que ella siente por el ballet y su amistad con Alex.
Por otro lado, Alex me pareció un chico divertido, un poco misterioso en algunos aspectos y muy confundido respecto a su vida y su futuro. Me gusta mucho que no esconda la aversión que siente hacia Belinda, que siempre esté cuando Kat lo necesita y sea su persona incondicional en cualquier situación. Amo que él también encuentre el amor en Ava, su relación me parece muy sencilla y hermosa, además de que hace que su circulo de amistades vaya más allá de las personas del ballet. Me gusta mucho que Mia Kun le haya dado a Alex otros intereses además del ballet, como los números, (o a Seth su habilidad con las computadoras), creo que eso también contribuye a la complejidad y crecimiento de los personajes.
Sin dudas la trama del ballet es la más importante, descubrir que Alex y Kat tienen planeados futuros completamente opuestos respecto a ello fue una sorpresa muy grande, pero creo que se maneja de una manera maravillosa, realista, con mucho drama y con un desenlace que en definitiva no esperaba. Pero además del ballet, Journey of a Butterfly tiene mucho drama proveniente de los personajes secundarios, esta Belinda, la chica mala que hace hasta lo imposible para destruir a Katherine, además del el dilema que está tiene que enfrentar al momento de elegir entre Will y el ballet. Y el enorme de secreto que Alex ha escondido de su mejor amiga durante seis años, definitivamente todo es digno de una serie de televisión, la cual vería gustosa.
Journey of a Butterfly tiene todo para ser una lectura asombrosa, y lo mejor de todo es que lo logra, sus personajes están construidos de manera excelente, Alex y Kat cambian y evolucionan de forma evidente desde el inicio hasta las ultimas páginas del libro, y tiene un final que te destroza pero hace que quieras saber qué pasará después. Una lectura muy recomendada.
Muchas gracias a Books and Moods por proporcionarme la copia de este maravilloso libro.
The main characters in this story are Katherine & Alex, they have been best friends since they were 10 years old, the same time they have been a ballet couple and practicing together. Due to various circumstances, they end up experiencing "normal teenage life" at Thornfield, a boarding school that is not specialized in ballet, but has a program in which both were accepted.
I really liked both characters, I think they have a very nice friendship and complement each other perfectly, one of my favorite things about it is the support, the constant concern, their wishes that the other be happy. I found Kat a very interesting girl, she does not have the typical friendly personality of the leading girl, she is aware of her strengths and talents in ballet, but she is also an insecure and vulnerable person, although she does not want to show it. I really like the way she decides to deal with Belinda 's jealousy towards her, and even though she makes a lot of bad choices throughout the book, it makes more real to me.
Another aspect that I fall in love with is the discovery of Will as his first love, I really enjoyed the little initial approaches, his first confessions, and his date, the way in which he is always willing to support her and doesn't believe any of the rumors about Kat at Thornfield. Undoubtedly what I liked most about Will was that he understood her devotion and love for ballet and her friendship with Alex.
On the other hand, Alex seemed like a funny guy, a bit mysterious in some ways and very confused about his life and his future. I really like that he doesn't hide the dislike he feels towards Belinda, that he is always there when Kat needs him and is his unconditional person in any situation. I love that he also finds love in Ava, their relationship seems very simple and beautiful, in addition to making their circle of friends go beyond the people of the ballet. I really like that Mia Kun has given Alex other interests besides ballet, such as numbers, (or Seth his ability with computers), I think that also contributes to the complexity and growth of the characters.
Undoubtedly the plot of the ballet is the most important, discovering that Alex and Kat have completely opposite futures planned in this regard was a very big surprise, but I think it is handled in a wonderful, realistic way, with much drama and with an outcome that ultimately did not expect. But in addition to ballet, Journey of a Butterfly has a lot of drama coming from the secondary characters: Belinda is the bad girl who does everything she can to destroy Katherine, in addition to the dilemma she has to face when choosing between Will and the ballet. And the huge secret that Alex has hidden from his best friend for six years, it is definitely all worthy of a television show, which I would gladly watch.
Journey of a Butterfly has everything to be an amazing read, and best of all, it achieves it, its characters are excellently constructed, Alex and Kat change and evolve in an obvious way from the beginning to the last pages of the book, and has an ending that tears you apart but makes you want to know what will happen next. A highly recommended reading.
Many thanks to Books and Moods for providing me with a copy of this wonderful book.
🇪🇸
Este libro atrapó mi interés desde las primeras páginas, tiene mucho drama adolescente, amistades falsas y personajes que son dignos de odiar, una amistad hermosa, un primer amor de los más tierno y un final que me dejo sin palabras a la vez que rompía mi corazón.
Los personajes principales en esta historia son Katherine & Alex, ellos son los mejores amigos desde que tenían 10 años, el mismo tiempo que llevan siendo pareja de ballet y practicando juntos. Por diversas circunstancias terminan experimentando “la vida normal de adolescentes” en Thornfield, un internado que no es especializado en ballet, pero tiene un programa en el que ambos fueron aceptados.
Ambos personajes me gustaron mucho, creo que tienen una amistad muy linda y se complementan a la perfección, una de mis cosas favoritas al respecto es el apoyo, preocupación constante y deseos de que el otro sea feliz. Kat me pareció una chica muy interesante, no tiene la típica personalidad amable de la chica protagonista, es consiente de sus fortalezas y talentos en el ballet, pero también es una persona inseguro y vulnerable, aunque no quiera demostrarlo. Me gusta mucho la forma en la que decide tratar los celos que Belinda siente por ella, y aunque toma muchas malas desiciones a lo largo del libro, eso hace que todo sea más real para mi.
Otro aspecto que me enamoro es el descubrimiento de Will como su primer amor, disfrute mucho de los pequeños acercamientos iniciales, sus primeras confesiones, y su cita, la forma en la que el siempre está dispuesto a apoyarla y en que no cree ninguno de los rumors que se dicen sobre Kat en Thornfield. Sin dudas lo que más me gusto de Will fue que comprendiera la devoción y amor que ella siente por el ballet y su amistad con Alex.
Por otro lado, Alex me pareció un chico divertido, un poco misterioso en algunos aspectos y muy confundido respecto a su vida y su futuro. Me gusta mucho que no esconda la aversión que siente hacia Belinda, que siempre esté cuando Kat lo necesita y sea su persona incondicional en cualquier situación. Amo que él también encuentre el amor en Ava, su relación me parece muy sencilla y hermosa, además de que hace que su circulo de amistades vaya más allá de las personas del ballet. Me gusta mucho que Mia Kun le haya dado a Alex otros intereses además del ballet, como los números, (o a Seth su habilidad con las computadoras), creo que eso también contribuye a la complejidad y crecimiento de los personajes.
Sin dudas la trama del ballet es la más importante, descubrir que Alex y Kat tienen planeados futuros completamente opuestos respecto a ello fue una sorpresa muy grande, pero creo que se maneja de una manera maravillosa, realista, con mucho drama y con un desenlace que en definitiva no esperaba. Pero además del ballet, Journey of a Butterfly tiene mucho drama proveniente de los personajes secundarios, esta Belinda, la chica mala que hace hasta lo imposible para destruir a Katherine, además del el dilema que está tiene que enfrentar al momento de elegir entre Will y el ballet. Y el enorme de secreto que Alex ha escondido de su mejor amiga durante seis años, definitivamente todo es digno de una serie de televisión, la cual vería gustosa.
Journey of a Butterfly tiene todo para ser una lectura asombrosa, y lo mejor de todo es que lo logra, sus personajes están construidos de manera excelente, Alex y Kat cambian y evolucionan de forma evidente desde el inicio hasta las ultimas páginas del libro, y tiene un final que te destroza pero hace que quieras saber qué pasará después. Una lectura muy recomendada.
Muchas gracias a Books and Moods por proporcionarme la copia de este maravilloso libro.
April 9, 2021
A noteworthy debut novel in the dance YA ballet/ romance trope.
Ballet isn’t my forte but I have a fondness for watching ballet dramas on tv and this book reminded me so much of it, with every scene well scripted and played out visual with an emotional pull. The author’s passion for and knowledge of ballet shined through and I felt every phase of the journey of the butterfly that was Kat, the heroine.
I didn’t always feel the romance aspect as I felt the ballet aspect overpowered the love story- or at least who the main love interest was- I’m still not sure if it was Alex or Will- but the deep seated soul connection with Alex is what held this story together. That ending was unexpected and left me feeling unsettled or rather unnerved.
Kat, the 16 year old heroine, undergoes a metamorphosis in her development while she discovers truths about herself, her relationships and life.
The overall pace was slow but steady and there was a few minor typos and inconsistencies with British English. The teen angst was palpable throughout and felt true to the age group - this is a noteworthy debut novel from Mia Kun, especially in the dance YA ballet/ romance trope.
4 Butterfly Stars
Ballet isn’t my forte but I have a fondness for watching ballet dramas on tv and this book reminded me so much of it, with every scene well scripted and played out visual with an emotional pull. The author’s passion for and knowledge of ballet shined through and I felt every phase of the journey of the butterfly that was Kat, the heroine.
I didn’t always feel the romance aspect as I felt the ballet aspect overpowered the love story- or at least who the main love interest was- I’m still not sure if it was Alex or Will- but the deep seated soul connection with Alex is what held this story together. That ending was unexpected and left me feeling unsettled or rather unnerved.
Kat, the 16 year old heroine, undergoes a metamorphosis in her development while she discovers truths about herself, her relationships and life.
The overall pace was slow but steady and there was a few minor typos and inconsistencies with British English. The teen angst was palpable throughout and felt true to the age group - this is a noteworthy debut novel from Mia Kun, especially in the dance YA ballet/ romance trope.
4 Butterfly Stars
January 5, 2021
Lots of drama, secrets and arrogance. Katherine is a ballerina who comes from a mother who was a ballerina and a father who was part of the ballet world.
I liked Alex, Seth and Ava. Alex is more than ballet. He wants more than that unlike Katherine. Her whole world revolves around ballet. She’s arrogant because she’s one of the best. But she can be a bit immature and she never listens when others tell her things. Even when her gut tells her not to do something she goes against her instincts and does it. She’s like a train wreck waiting to happen.
The first half is full of teenage drama. Katherine lays a lot of blame on others and doesn’t take any of the blame. She might be the best ballerina but she has a lot of growing up to do.
Alex has secrets and she wants to make him talk. She wants to know because he’s her best friend. She can’t let him come to her when he’s ready.
The ending really had me curious about the next book. This is Katherine story. The next one is about Alex which I’m really intrigued about.
This is a young adult book and the characters reflect that. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a lot of teenage drama.
I liked Alex, Seth and Ava. Alex is more than ballet. He wants more than that unlike Katherine. Her whole world revolves around ballet. She’s arrogant because she’s one of the best. But she can be a bit immature and she never listens when others tell her things. Even when her gut tells her not to do something she goes against her instincts and does it. She’s like a train wreck waiting to happen.
The first half is full of teenage drama. Katherine lays a lot of blame on others and doesn’t take any of the blame. She might be the best ballerina but she has a lot of growing up to do.
Alex has secrets and she wants to make him talk. She wants to know because he’s her best friend. She can’t let him come to her when he’s ready.
The ending really had me curious about the next book. This is Katherine story. The next one is about Alex which I’m really intrigued about.
This is a young adult book and the characters reflect that. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a lot of teenage drama.
March 15, 2021
"Journey of a Butterfly " is a such a lovely and entertaining read. It hit me close to home, being a ballet book. I loved going back to my dancing years and remember all that drama. What was a surprise for me was that it didn't bother me that this book was YA so it wasn't a heavy read. It was really soft on the romance, but it was truly enjoyable nevertheless.
Talking about character, I've seen Kat in my ballet class in so many shapes. She is that perfect ballerina that life thinks she has to evolve and throws some drama in the mix. I loved Will! He was such a sweetheart and it made it so easy to fall for him. And Alex... Oh, my God! His character had captivated me from the first moment I read his name and I can't wait to read more about him. I am so glad that we have a book just for him.
Talking about character, I've seen Kat in my ballet class in so many shapes. She is that perfect ballerina that life thinks she has to evolve and throws some drama in the mix. I loved Will! He was such a sweetheart and it made it so easy to fall for him. And Alex... Oh, my God! His character had captivated me from the first moment I read his name and I can't wait to read more about him. I am so glad that we have a book just for him.
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