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On Pointe #1
Murder in First Position
Ballerina Leah Siderova knows the career of a professional dancer is short. But rarely is it as brief as that of her rival, Arianna Bonneville, whose rise to stardom ends when she is stabbed in the back.
New York City police detective Jonah Sobol fixes upon Leah as the prime suspect. After all, she was the one who found the body, she had the most to gain from Arianna’s death, and it was her name Arianna whispered, just before she died.
Leah is desperate to clear her name, and she begins her own investigation, collaborating with her best friend and her ballet coach. As the three dancers sort through backstage intrigues, attempted blackmail, and a tangle of romantic liaisons, the noose around Leah’s neck grows tighter.
Ballet, with its merciless discipline, is all Leah has ever known. Is that enough to keep her one step ahead of the police—and the killer?
New York City police detective Jonah Sobol fixes upon Leah as the prime suspect. After all, she was the one who found the body, she had the most to gain from Arianna’s death, and it was her name Arianna whispered, just before she died.
Leah is desperate to clear her name, and she begins her own investigation, collaborating with her best friend and her ballet coach. As the three dancers sort through backstage intrigues, attempted blackmail, and a tangle of romantic liaisons, the noose around Leah’s neck grows tighter.
Ballet, with its merciless discipline, is all Leah has ever known. Is that enough to keep her one step ahead of the police—and the killer?
Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2020
23 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Lori Robbins
13 books200 followersLori Robbins is the author of the On Pointe and Master Class mystery series. Her work has garnered multiple awards, including the Indie Award for Best Mystery and the Silver Falchion.
Short stories include “Accidents Happen” in Mystery Most Diabolical and “Leading Ladies” in Justice for All. She’s also a contributor to The Secret Ingredient: A Mystery Writers Cookbook.
A former dancer, Lori performed with a number of modern and ballet companies, including Ballet Hispanico and the St. Louis Ballet. Her commercial work included featured ads for Pavlova Perfume and Macy’s. After ten very lean years onstage she became an English teacher and now writes full time.
As a dancer, teacher, and mother of six, Lori is an expert in the homicidal impulses everyday life inspires.
Short stories include “Accidents Happen” in Mystery Most Diabolical and “Leading Ladies” in Justice for All. She’s also a contributor to The Secret Ingredient: A Mystery Writers Cookbook.
A former dancer, Lori performed with a number of modern and ballet companies, including Ballet Hispanico and the St. Louis Ballet. Her commercial work included featured ads for Pavlova Perfume and Macy’s. After ten very lean years onstage she became an English teacher and now writes full time.
As a dancer, teacher, and mother of six, Lori is an expert in the homicidal impulses everyday life inspires.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 18, 2022
When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a ballerina and a writer. While I did become an author, Lori Robbins managed to become both. I just finished reading her MURDER IN THE FIRST POSITION: AN ON POINTE MYSTERY and loved it! Prima ballerina Leah Siderova is recovering from an injury and no longer has top billing. Another dancer, Arianna Bonneville, is getting the roles and attention that Leah used to. When Arianna is found murdered with Leah next to the body, the police regard her as Suspect Number One. They are even trying to link her to other murders that occurred earlier in the year when the company was performing in Paris. Leah is shunned by her fellow dancers who believe she's a murderer. Despite suffering panic attacks, she questions people who have turned their back on her in hopes of discovering evidence that will clear her name. A wonderful read told by an author who knows the ballet world intimately. I've just ordered MURDER IN SECOND POSITION.
August 22, 2021
As we have been in lockdown the past five days, I have been recently watching a lot of the Hallmark Channel Mysteries as well as reading books of course. Murder in First Position reminded me of a mix of the Hallmark Cozy mysteries I had been watching as well as a bit of the Netflix show Tiny Pretty Things. As we know from reading and watching shows about Ballet, is it can be a cutthroat business and fleeting as there are always younger dancers coming through and as soon as your body starts betraying you or someone better comes along, you can find yourself replaced in a heartbeat. For Leah, she has returned to the scene after a few months away as she injured her knee. Now she has returned to take her place as a lead dancer but has found she has been replaced by a younger model named Arianna. Arianna though Leah is about to discover is one of those "I'm all that" dancers and a right b----. Arianna is about to get her karma though as Leah finds her dead. The thing though Leah didn't plan on is that she is being used as the perfect scapegoat and someone wants it to look like Leah murdered Arianna. Now it is up to Arianna along with her family and close friend's Gabi and Madame to try and solve Arianna's murder and clear Leah's name before she ends up behind bars as it looks like they have her as their Number #1 suspect and not looking for any other options. If you are in the mood for a cozy mystery and love Ballet, then check out Lori Robbin's series On Pointe Mysteries.
October 27, 2020
I really hate that my first review and book approved through NetGalley is not a glowing one. I adore ballet and I really, really wanted to like this book. It’s why I chose it.
The author, Lori Robbins, was a professional dancer and that depth of knowledge and understanding of an esoteric world shines through in everything that the characters do in this book.
Potential
Overall, this is a book with a great deal of potential but would have greatly benefited from a strident editor and revision. The language usage is clumsy and the dialogue awkward. It almost feels like a first draft. So much potential but it needs work. Language usage needs tightening, dialogue needs to be revised, some scenes could easily be cut without hurting the essential story.
By needing an editor I mean that in the first few pages a character named Bryan becomes Brian and then back again.
Compelling
It is a compelling read, something about Robbins’ writing kept me reading even though I wasn’t overly interested in what happens to the characters. The story does meander quite a bit, there are several scenes that are unnecessary and subplots that don’t add to the overall story.
Would I read from the author again?
Possibly. Again, there’s so much potential here, with a good editor and solid revision, this book could have been amazing.
The author, Lori Robbins, was a professional dancer and that depth of knowledge and understanding of an esoteric world shines through in everything that the characters do in this book.
Potential
Overall, this is a book with a great deal of potential but would have greatly benefited from a strident editor and revision. The language usage is clumsy and the dialogue awkward. It almost feels like a first draft. So much potential but it needs work. Language usage needs tightening, dialogue needs to be revised, some scenes could easily be cut without hurting the essential story.
By needing an editor I mean that in the first few pages a character named Bryan becomes Brian and then back again.
Compelling
It is a compelling read, something about Robbins’ writing kept me reading even though I wasn’t overly interested in what happens to the characters. The story does meander quite a bit, there are several scenes that are unnecessary and subplots that don’t add to the overall story.
Would I read from the author again?
Possibly. Again, there’s so much potential here, with a good editor and solid revision, this book could have been amazing.
November 29, 2020
3.5***
I danced ballet for 15 years, so when I saw that there was a ballet thriller, I couldn’t WAIT to get my hands on it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this prior to its release date. All opinions are strictly my own.
They say ballerinas would never kill over a role but they clearly don’t know how cutthroat the ballerina dance world is..it’s quite intense and reason as to why I never further pursued ballet.
I loved being immersed in the NYC Professional Ballet world! I loved the ballet terms that were used and found myself reenacting the moves in my head from my own memories. I loved hearing about the different pieces and costumes. It was so fun to be back in that world!
The mystery itself was ... meh. This is a classic ‘whodunnit’ but it took me some time to piece together who our murderer was. I thought some of the writing was mediocre and there were parts that sort of dragged on and made me want the mystery to move just a tiny bit faster. I really wasn’t found if Leah, our main character either. I preferred her sidekicks much more. Leah seemed very.. one dimensional.
This is book one in a new ballet series so I will definitely be picking up book two because.. it’s ballet and I’m a dancer so why not?
I danced ballet for 15 years, so when I saw that there was a ballet thriller, I couldn’t WAIT to get my hands on it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this prior to its release date. All opinions are strictly my own.
They say ballerinas would never kill over a role but they clearly don’t know how cutthroat the ballerina dance world is..it’s quite intense and reason as to why I never further pursued ballet.
I loved being immersed in the NYC Professional Ballet world! I loved the ballet terms that were used and found myself reenacting the moves in my head from my own memories. I loved hearing about the different pieces and costumes. It was so fun to be back in that world!
The mystery itself was ... meh. This is a classic ‘whodunnit’ but it took me some time to piece together who our murderer was. I thought some of the writing was mediocre and there were parts that sort of dragged on and made me want the mystery to move just a tiny bit faster. I really wasn’t found if Leah, our main character either. I preferred her sidekicks much more. Leah seemed very.. one dimensional.
This is book one in a new ballet series so I will definitely be picking up book two because.. it’s ballet and I’m a dancer so why not?
November 24, 2020
*Thank you to Netgalley for an eArc in exchange for an honest review*
This was a witty and suspenseful little mystery, which didn’t take itself too seriously. I have no knowledge of ballet, nor the professional dance scene in general, but that didn’t matter; I was able to follow the plot fairly easily and witness the characters come to life effortlessly. It was well paced and I would recommend to other mystery lovers.
This was a witty and suspenseful little mystery, which didn’t take itself too seriously. I have no knowledge of ballet, nor the professional dance scene in general, but that didn’t matter; I was able to follow the plot fairly easily and witness the characters come to life effortlessly. It was well paced and I would recommend to other mystery lovers.
July 30, 2021
What a fun read! Suspenseful, witty, fast-paced, and fascinating. I am not very familiar with ballet, so I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this novel, but Lori Robbins pulled me right in. The setting and the characters are well-crafted. The plot is intriguing, and the novel is full of action from beginning to end. I highly recommend Murder in First Position and I look forward to this author’s next novel in the series.
March 10, 2023
Murder in First Position Earns 5+/5 Pirouettes … Engaging & Entertaining Gem!
Leah Siderova’s talent was praised by many in the community putting her at the pinnacle of an international dancing career, until a dancer’s worst nightmare … knee surgery. But, ballet is her life, so she has no plans for early retirement. Instead, she’s vying for a comeback and setting to call in a few favors, but sadly, she finds herself navigating the heartache of being overlooked, replaced, and put into an “understudy” role. She was not featured in the article Times critic Greyson Averin had promised or selected as the lead in Bryan Leister’s new production commissioned by the American Ballet Company; both honors went to Arianna Bonneville, a talented rising star. It’s well known the world of ballet is filled with cutthroat competition, “zilla” personalities, and backstabbing, so when Leah finds Arianna literally stabbed in the back and her last words implicate Leah, professing her innocence to the police is met with skepticism. Leah had witnessed, as well as received, Arianna’s physical and verbal cruelty, but despite the gossip Leah was jealous, a physical altercation seen by many, and testimony and real forensic evidence, the difference of opinion among the detectives is not enough; Leah will not be railroaded.
Take a Bow! Lori Robbins had me immediately hooked with the murder of Leah’s dancing nemesis revealed in the first chapter; I couldn’t put it down! The investigation took center stage with previous incidents revisited along with raising connections to attacks in Paris where Leah had also been in attendance. There’re few confidants in the American Ballet Company to support Leah’s claim of innocence since one less dancer to compete with is a plus in everyone’s mind, but her dancing partner Daniel, a young dancer Olivia resigned to the corps de ballet, and dancing coach Madame Maksimova offer some insights. The motives are varied and cause Leah quite a dilemma: another diva dancer , usurpers within the ballet troupe, hidden agendas, and rumors of plenty of affairs. Of course, the “Don’t get involved” scheme means everyone is uncooperative worried their own careers could be jeopardized. Add a shadowy stalker, alibis hard to crack, a trio of helpful ladies, and another attack ramps up the intensity exploding with a nail-biting chase. I was fascinated by the inner workings of the ballet company which brought to mind the movie The Turning Point. Cheers!
Leah Siderova’s talent was praised by many in the community putting her at the pinnacle of an international dancing career, until a dancer’s worst nightmare … knee surgery. But, ballet is her life, so she has no plans for early retirement. Instead, she’s vying for a comeback and setting to call in a few favors, but sadly, she finds herself navigating the heartache of being overlooked, replaced, and put into an “understudy” role. She was not featured in the article Times critic Greyson Averin had promised or selected as the lead in Bryan Leister’s new production commissioned by the American Ballet Company; both honors went to Arianna Bonneville, a talented rising star. It’s well known the world of ballet is filled with cutthroat competition, “zilla” personalities, and backstabbing, so when Leah finds Arianna literally stabbed in the back and her last words implicate Leah, professing her innocence to the police is met with skepticism. Leah had witnessed, as well as received, Arianna’s physical and verbal cruelty, but despite the gossip Leah was jealous, a physical altercation seen by many, and testimony and real forensic evidence, the difference of opinion among the detectives is not enough; Leah will not be railroaded.
Take a Bow! Lori Robbins had me immediately hooked with the murder of Leah’s dancing nemesis revealed in the first chapter; I couldn’t put it down! The investigation took center stage with previous incidents revisited along with raising connections to attacks in Paris where Leah had also been in attendance. There’re few confidants in the American Ballet Company to support Leah’s claim of innocence since one less dancer to compete with is a plus in everyone’s mind, but her dancing partner Daniel, a young dancer Olivia resigned to the corps de ballet, and dancing coach Madame Maksimova offer some insights. The motives are varied and cause Leah quite a dilemma: another diva dancer , usurpers within the ballet troupe, hidden agendas, and rumors of plenty of affairs. Of course, the “Don’t get involved” scheme means everyone is uncooperative worried their own careers could be jeopardized. Add a shadowy stalker, alibis hard to crack, a trio of helpful ladies, and another attack ramps up the intensity exploding with a nail-biting chase. I was fascinated by the inner workings of the ballet company which brought to mind the movie The Turning Point. Cheers!
October 16, 2020
Murder in First Position by Lori Robbins is the first novel in a new 3 book series, On Pointe, to be published November 24, 2000, and set in the world of professional ballet. Ballerina Leah Siderova discovers her much younger and more beautiful rival, Arianna Bonneville, stabbed to death by scissors backstage after a performance. Keeping true to cozy mystery parameters, amateur sleuth Leah ditches her tutu and dons a disguise in an attempt to clear her name. Robbins choreographs the character’s moves and readers can clearly see that the potential killer had means, motive and opportunity. Readers will feel like they are invited along for the investigation and will definitely get a feel of life in New York.
Unfortunately, the timeline of the story needed some input from a master of mystery. The murder occurred much too early in the novel, leaving the denouement extremely long and drawn out. At the midway point, Leah finally remembers to share a clue with detectives and initiates a list of suspects. It isn’t until three-quarters of the way through that she goes undercover and actively searches for the killer. With 75% of a book just about a murder and police investigation of the protagonist, one tends to lose interest. Furthermore, being a book about ballet, I would have expected a few more ballet terms throughout the book instead of a long string of them injected at 59% of the way along. There were odd additions to the plot that had no impact on the outcome. Why was so much time spent on the 3-elderly woman on the bus to Atlantic City? Why did we need to devote so much time to a sister with marital problems? Why would someone on the run stop to relocate 3 plants from their fire escape and make sure the house was tidy?
I also found the preadolescent displays of behaviour unbecoming to a cast of mature dancers. I would expect it with teens, but It seemed odd for a 33-year-old ballerina to be fixated on petty revenge and dancer affairs. What was with the picayune cast? I felt like I was reading a Harlequin Romance: Arianna Bonneville? Grayson Averin? Zarina Devereaux? A dog named Froufrou? It made for a good laugh. I really would have loved to have seen Morty doing some sleuthing instead of Leah. I could almost hear his New York accent and thought he’d be a good match for the position. The juxtaposition of brusque Morty against the tulle and point shoes would be fantastic. Leah’s desperation at her waning career was extremely obvious and created good misdirection. The quotes at the beginning of the chapter were not indicative of chapter contents. It’s like they were arbitrarily placed because they had the word ballet in them. The genre is listed as mystery and thriller. I wasn’t aware of my pulse increasing, but I definitely wouldn’t call it a thriller. The premise of this book was exciting and it had so much potential.
To quote the book, I guess I’m “not a fan of ballerina bitchiness.”
Thank you to Netgalley and Level Best Books for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, the timeline of the story needed some input from a master of mystery. The murder occurred much too early in the novel, leaving the denouement extremely long and drawn out. At the midway point, Leah finally remembers to share a clue with detectives and initiates a list of suspects. It isn’t until three-quarters of the way through that she goes undercover and actively searches for the killer. With 75% of a book just about a murder and police investigation of the protagonist, one tends to lose interest. Furthermore, being a book about ballet, I would have expected a few more ballet terms throughout the book instead of a long string of them injected at 59% of the way along. There were odd additions to the plot that had no impact on the outcome. Why was so much time spent on the 3-elderly woman on the bus to Atlantic City? Why did we need to devote so much time to a sister with marital problems? Why would someone on the run stop to relocate 3 plants from their fire escape and make sure the house was tidy?
I also found the preadolescent displays of behaviour unbecoming to a cast of mature dancers. I would expect it with teens, but It seemed odd for a 33-year-old ballerina to be fixated on petty revenge and dancer affairs. What was with the picayune cast? I felt like I was reading a Harlequin Romance: Arianna Bonneville? Grayson Averin? Zarina Devereaux? A dog named Froufrou? It made for a good laugh. I really would have loved to have seen Morty doing some sleuthing instead of Leah. I could almost hear his New York accent and thought he’d be a good match for the position. The juxtaposition of brusque Morty against the tulle and point shoes would be fantastic. Leah’s desperation at her waning career was extremely obvious and created good misdirection. The quotes at the beginning of the chapter were not indicative of chapter contents. It’s like they were arbitrarily placed because they had the word ballet in them. The genre is listed as mystery and thriller. I wasn’t aware of my pulse increasing, but I definitely wouldn’t call it a thriller. The premise of this book was exciting and it had so much potential.
To quote the book, I guess I’m “not a fan of ballerina bitchiness.”
Thank you to Netgalley and Level Best Books for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2020
I am pleased that Murder in First Position is going to be part of a series, for I will enjoy reading more about the main character, Leah. The only thing I knew about ballet before I began this book is that I have enjoyed watching the few I have been able to attend. I am not sure how much I know about it now and how much is fiction, but I do know that Murder in First Position was an entertaining read.
Leah’s predicament, her career and fellow dancers, her family and friends, and her hometown (NYC) are presented in ways that make them understandable. You don’t need to be familiar with ballet to become interested in the storyline of the book. You will begin to realize something of the driven nature that compels career dancers and something of the kind of sacrifices ballet requires of its performers. Having lived in Brooklyn for a short time, I couldn’t help smiling at references some of the things I enjoyed while there, but Lori Robbins includes enough details about the environment in which Leah lives to bring some of the magic of New York City to the reader.
There are plenty of people who might be the murderer. That always makes a mystery more engaging. I didn’t know who-dun-it until Leah sees and is chased by the murderer. I recommend this mystery.
Happily, for me, I was given an advanced copy of this book through BookSirens. It has been a pleasure to share my voluntary and freely-given review.
(PS. How I wish I could have had a black and white cookie with Leah! You can’t find those in the Midwest. I highly recommend them, if you have a sweet tooth.)
Leah’s predicament, her career and fellow dancers, her family and friends, and her hometown (NYC) are presented in ways that make them understandable. You don’t need to be familiar with ballet to become interested in the storyline of the book. You will begin to realize something of the driven nature that compels career dancers and something of the kind of sacrifices ballet requires of its performers. Having lived in Brooklyn for a short time, I couldn’t help smiling at references some of the things I enjoyed while there, but Lori Robbins includes enough details about the environment in which Leah lives to bring some of the magic of New York City to the reader.
There are plenty of people who might be the murderer. That always makes a mystery more engaging. I didn’t know who-dun-it until Leah sees and is chased by the murderer. I recommend this mystery.
Happily, for me, I was given an advanced copy of this book through BookSirens. It has been a pleasure to share my voluntary and freely-given review.
(PS. How I wish I could have had a black and white cookie with Leah! You can’t find those in the Midwest. I highly recommend them, if you have a sweet tooth.)
March 20, 2021
Murder in First Position by Lori Robbins is a very good story. It's got a well-crafted murder mystery with multiple suspects. Robbins makes you care about the characters by giving them flaws, thus making them seem more realistic.
I don't know much about ballet, and the average reader probably doesn't either. We know actual ballets and what pointe shoes are, but we probably have no idea what goes on backstage. A whole lot of work goes on not only for the dancers, but the costume makers, choreographers, hair, make-up, etc. work very hard too! But, you don't need to know anything about ballet to enjoy this mystery.
Though the book's composition could use some editing for conciseness, the actual mystery is very gripping. I'm unfamiliar with most of NYC, the setting of Murder in First Position, but the author's description of the area in which Leah lives brought the setting to life.
There's a little "possible" romance thrown into the book. I liked one of the possibilities and felt it was realistic but the other seemed a little far-fetched. Who knows? That one could have just been trying to seduce Leah. Murder in First Position is a traditional mystery (not cozy), so expect more language than you would in a cozy mystery.
As a whole, I enjoyed Murder in First Position because it kept my attention and kept me flipping the pages (figuratively....Kindle!). I liked the multiple red herrings, the fact that the main characters were well-developed, and the way that the case wrapped up. I give this one 3 1/2 stars rounded to 4.
I don't know much about ballet, and the average reader probably doesn't either. We know actual ballets and what pointe shoes are, but we probably have no idea what goes on backstage. A whole lot of work goes on not only for the dancers, but the costume makers, choreographers, hair, make-up, etc. work very hard too! But, you don't need to know anything about ballet to enjoy this mystery.
Though the book's composition could use some editing for conciseness, the actual mystery is very gripping. I'm unfamiliar with most of NYC, the setting of Murder in First Position, but the author's description of the area in which Leah lives brought the setting to life.
There's a little "possible" romance thrown into the book. I liked one of the possibilities and felt it was realistic but the other seemed a little far-fetched. Who knows? That one could have just been trying to seduce Leah. Murder in First Position is a traditional mystery (not cozy), so expect more language than you would in a cozy mystery.
As a whole, I enjoyed Murder in First Position because it kept my attention and kept me flipping the pages (figuratively....Kindle!). I liked the multiple red herrings, the fact that the main characters were well-developed, and the way that the case wrapped up. I give this one 3 1/2 stars rounded to 4.
November 15, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I know it is a fictionalized account of the dance community, but it was interesting to get even that small look inside. There was even a small nod (intentional or not) to the movie Laura, which is one of my favorites. I didn't expect to be as captivated by the story as I was. It is not a deep, psychological thriller nor is it a cozy mystery; it lies somewhere in between. It is a good basic murder mystery with plenty of suspense, twists and turns, and red herrings to keep the reader on their toes. I know there were several times when I found myself thinking "With friends like these, who needs enemies?!" I also loved the relationship between Leah and her older sister Melissa. Leah talked many times about how perfect Melissa was and yet there was never even a hint of jealousy there, which was surprising to me. But there was one line that struck a chord and has stayed with me. "What do people do who don't have sisters?" I loved that. All in all, this was a great book and I highly recommend it.
I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I would like to thank them and Ms. Robbins for the opportunity to read Murder in First Position.
I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I would like to thank them and Ms. Robbins for the opportunity to read Murder in First Position.
November 24, 2020
Magnificent Mystery
Robbins pens a wonderful mystery story in Murder in First Position. I have read word from this author before, and I really enjoyed it, and this was no different. The mystery surrounds ballerina Leah, who's rival was killed, and of course, everyone has eyes on her. I am vaguely knowledgeable about the strictness of discipline of professional dancers, but in this story, I think that lends to helping Leah try to clear her name while the police are right there, behind her. If you love a great suspenseful and mysterious story, this book should be next on your list. A very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. Robbins is a magnificent storyteller and adds that layer of suspense and mystery, as well as other sub plotlines. It's a perfect stage for murder, and this book has it. Magnificent story, kept this reader turning the pages. A definite attention grabber. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly and the characterizations are engrossing. Love this story. The author's technique of intense characters and great plotlines is a gift. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
Robbins pens a wonderful mystery story in Murder in First Position. I have read word from this author before, and I really enjoyed it, and this was no different. The mystery surrounds ballerina Leah, who's rival was killed, and of course, everyone has eyes on her. I am vaguely knowledgeable about the strictness of discipline of professional dancers, but in this story, I think that lends to helping Leah try to clear her name while the police are right there, behind her. If you love a great suspenseful and mysterious story, this book should be next on your list. A very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. Robbins is a magnificent storyteller and adds that layer of suspense and mystery, as well as other sub plotlines. It's a perfect stage for murder, and this book has it. Magnificent story, kept this reader turning the pages. A definite attention grabber. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly and the characterizations are engrossing. Love this story. The author's technique of intense characters and great plotlines is a gift. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
March 23, 2021
We are treated to the back stage and out of theatre world of the ballet in this first of a trilogy novel.
Leah is aging out of the profession, but before she goes, she wants to prove she still has all the right stuff. Her expected grand finale comes crashing down before it begins when she learns that her supposed good friend and choreographer has given her prize role to a younger rival.
When that rival is later discovered murdered, with only Leah's fingerprints on the guilty weapon, and the police trying to accuse her not only of this murder but also others in the ballet world, Leah must call upon her family and friends, as well as her own wit and daring, to uncover the true killer before her freedom is taken away.
Ambition, sex, and deceit all play roles in this international mystery.
The competitive spirit of the dancers as well as members of the media come head to head and toe to toe before these murders will be solved. Who can be trusted and who only has their own interests in mind?
Tense and at times very dark, this book is a class act.
Leah is aging out of the profession, but before she goes, she wants to prove she still has all the right stuff. Her expected grand finale comes crashing down before it begins when she learns that her supposed good friend and choreographer has given her prize role to a younger rival.
When that rival is later discovered murdered, with only Leah's fingerprints on the guilty weapon, and the police trying to accuse her not only of this murder but also others in the ballet world, Leah must call upon her family and friends, as well as her own wit and daring, to uncover the true killer before her freedom is taken away.
Ambition, sex, and deceit all play roles in this international mystery.
The competitive spirit of the dancers as well as members of the media come head to head and toe to toe before these murders will be solved. Who can be trusted and who only has their own interests in mind?
Tense and at times very dark, this book is a class act.
June 11, 2022
Lori Robbins first book in her On Pointe mystery series, Murder in First Position, takes on the world of professional ballet. Her protagonist is wrongly accused of murdering another member of the dance company and spends the novel trying to prove her innocence. Leah Siderova is clearly not an investigator and gets caught up in her emotions (as would anyone!) when confronted with the possibility of a life behind bars. This leads to some erratic behavior and less-than-logical thinking. Luckily, she has good friends in the form of her loyal sister, a Russian dance teacher, and a best friend who flies home from South America to help. Of course, life is enhanced (complicated) by two interesting looking men. Most charming are three old ladies on the Chinatown-Atlantic City gambling bus who have her back in a moment of weakness. I am somewhat amazed that the protagonist makes it through the novel on the strength of black coffee, two black and white cookies, and one breakfast. Definitely enjoyable—and perfect for a summer read at the beach! Bring snacks.
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October 27, 2020You don’t have to know a single thing about ballet to love Murder in First Position. I actually know a little about the life of a dancer, having studied ballet for many years, and I really liked the way this author describes the dance world. Robbins doesn’t get into too many details, but she definitely has a really interesting, insider point of view. The story, which is about a ballerina accused of murder, is full of suspense, and more than a little humor. Leah, the main character, is already at a low point in her life when she’s accused of murdering another dancer. She has plenty of motive, since the murdered girl is her rival, but as Leah says, what kind of idiot would murder someone out of professional jealousy?
Turns out, plenty of people. The action is fast-paced, and the writing is really, really good. Very smart and funny, with fast-paced and funny dialogue. A definite five stars. [FYI: Read it on Netgalley—many thanks to the publishers for making it available]
Turns out, plenty of people. The action is fast-paced, and the writing is really, really good. Very smart and funny, with fast-paced and funny dialogue. A definite five stars. [FYI: Read it on Netgalley—many thanks to the publishers for making it available]
November 12, 2020
When a prima ballerina is found dead in the costume room of the American Ballet Company, fellow dancer Leah Siderova must find the killer or risk being arrested for the murder. Lots of dancers had reason to hate the gorgeous, uber-mean-girl victim, whose career was on the rise. But only Leah, recovering from a potentially career-ending knee injury, is found hunched over the dead body with murder weapon in hand. Satisfyingly suspenseful and filled with unforgettable characters, Murder in First Position is an homage to ballet, New York City, and families whom we love even when they drive us crazy. It was a treat to follow Leah through the Upper West Side, downtown to the trendy Meatpacking District and into the super-competitive, crazy world of professional dancers. A fun read with sly humor. Thank you BookSirens for letting me read an advance review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
October 26, 2020
Murder in First Position is Lori Robbins’ second book, and it’s even better than the first. You don’t have to know anything about ballet to be drawn into the story of Leah Siderova, a ballerina who’s accused of a crime she didn’t commit. As a lifelong New Yorker, I loved the way the author describes the city. She gets so many things right—the subway, the streets, the stores, and the people. The characters are, well, characters! They all feel like people you know, or wish you knew. It’s a suspenseful novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. No matter how bad things get for Leah, she never loses her ironic sense of humor. I think I liked best the way she grows and changes over the course of the book, turning into a better version of the woman (and dancer) she was at the beginning. I honestly couldn’t put down this suspenseful story. Looking forward to the next installment!
October 28, 2020
"I don’t want dancers who want to dance. I want dancers who have to dance."
The world of ballet --- elegance, grace, charm.... and murder! As a lover of ballet I was excited to dive into this book, and it did not disappoint, The book's protagonist, Leah, is a former top ballerina who is now on the wrong side of 30. Her arch nemesis is the new rising star, Arianna, who is slowly but surely taking her place at the top of the ballet world after a painful knee injury. When Arianna turns up dead, Leah becomes the prime suspect. In order to clear her name, she begins her own investigation.
Robbins is a master of mystery and keeps you guessing at every turn, but it's not all suspense ---- the novel is interspersed with hilarious dialogue, witty banter, and an enchanting setting. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of mystery and ballet!
The world of ballet --- elegance, grace, charm.... and murder! As a lover of ballet I was excited to dive into this book, and it did not disappoint, The book's protagonist, Leah, is a former top ballerina who is now on the wrong side of 30. Her arch nemesis is the new rising star, Arianna, who is slowly but surely taking her place at the top of the ballet world after a painful knee injury. When Arianna turns up dead, Leah becomes the prime suspect. In order to clear her name, she begins her own investigation.
Robbins is a master of mystery and keeps you guessing at every turn, but it's not all suspense ---- the novel is interspersed with hilarious dialogue, witty banter, and an enchanting setting. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of mystery and ballet!
May 4, 2021
Murder in First Position not only gives readers a thrilling, twisted mystery but a relatable, engaging heroine. Ballerina Lead Siderova is witty, smart, and vulnerable all at once, capturing the attention of the reader with her relatability. Her mystery solving is logical, yet thrilling, and she uses 21st-century resources to hunt down her suspects against the backdrop of New York City glamour. While the setting is huge, you feel intimately connected to Lori Robbins's New York, and it creates an atmosphere that leaves you begging to come back for more in Book 2. I can't wait to see what's next for Leah!
April 21, 2022
This is a well executed murder mystery set amongst the tutus and pointe shoes and drama drama drama! I LOVED it! 😍
I loved the dance quotes throughout the book, Madame's French accent (written perfectly), and of course the main character, Leah. She is perfectly imperfect, and the way she handles being a suspected murderer is brilliant.
I highly recommend this to all who love a murder mystery and also have an interest in professional ballet. If you watched the Netflix series "Tiny Pretty Things", you need to give this a read.
I've already lined up book 2 and can't wait to find out what happens next!
I loved the dance quotes throughout the book, Madame's French accent (written perfectly), and of course the main character, Leah. She is perfectly imperfect, and the way she handles being a suspected murderer is brilliant.
I highly recommend this to all who love a murder mystery and also have an interest in professional ballet. If you watched the Netflix series "Tiny Pretty Things", you need to give this a read.
I've already lined up book 2 and can't wait to find out what happens next!
October 25, 2020
Murder in First Position is definitely en pointe! It’s not often you find a novel, let alone a mystery, set in the world of dance, but from page one, it’s evident the author knows both the ballet subculture and New York City from an insider’s perspective. Filled with dead bodies, unexpected suitors, red herrings and the humor for which this Silver Falchion-winning writer Is known, Murder in the First Position will keep you guessing until the final curtain call. Many thanks to the author and Level Best Books for an ARC. My opinion is offered without obligation.
October 26, 2020
I read this wonderful book on netgalley and loved it. found this book after I read and loved her first book, lesson plan for murder. This book surpassed that one in cleverness, ingenuity, and humor.
From the very first page I was absolutely hooked. I have never danced but always loved and admired the field, and it was wonderful to be transported into that world. The book was funny and fast paced, and the characters easily and effortlessly came to life. I think the book was fantastic and I immediately told my friends about it!
From the very first page I was absolutely hooked. I have never danced but always loved and admired the field, and it was wonderful to be transported into that world. The book was funny and fast paced, and the characters easily and effortlessly came to life. I think the book was fantastic and I immediately told my friends about it!
December 11, 2020
Dance has always fascinated me, probably because I wanted to be able to dance when I was a young girl but definitely didn’t have the body for it. Reading my favorite genre set in NYC and the ballet was a winner for me. There were lots of suspects, lots of support for the wrongly accused and plenty of those who just thought she must have done it. Loved the good human side of fierce loyalty, no matter what.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 5, 2022
The mysterious and entangled world behind a professional's ballet career kept me on my toes from the opening of the curtain to the final act! Ballerina Leah Siderova is forced into the unwanted spotlight of prime suspect for the vicious murder of her younger, vindictive competitor. Loved this backstage perspective of a business that is anything but dainty and set within the incomparable New York City stage. A page-turner.
December 17, 2021
What a delight! Lori Robbins' first ballet-centered mystery is witty and well-observed. Leah Siderova, principal dancer with the American Ballet Company, is coming back from an injury, only to find that, first, she's being sidelined, and second, that her rival has been murdered -- and she's the prime suspect. The first person narration puts us inside Leah's head and her viewpoint is unique and clearly informed by the author's own experiences as a dancer in a number of ballet companies.
December 9, 2020
This was a first book in a series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have been a dancer all my life and currently am teaching dance. It was fun to read about the dancers and the veiled jealousies involved when one dancer received a role another covets. This story was full of twists and you truly didn't know who done it until the end. I wait eagerly for the next installment.
December 25, 2020
What a fun mystery! So many great twists and turns, and really hard to put down. I particularly enjoyed the ballet world setting-- love triangles, professional rivalries, and very colorful characters! I had previously read (and thoroughly enjoyed) LESSON PLAN FOR MURDER by Lori Robbins, and I enjoyed this book just as much. I am looking forward to the next book in each series
October 28, 2020
This was a pleasing surprise and one that I was not able to put down! Filled with clever and witty dialogue, digestible even for those that normally do not associate ballet with a cozy mystery. Highly recommend! Available on NetGalley to download!
October 20, 2021
Suspenseful, fast-paced, Murder in the First Position grabbed my attention on the first page and held it right to the last. In addition to the mystery, I enjoyed glimpses of the discipline required to be a professional dancer and found the cast of characters interesting and likeable. A great read.
February 13, 2023
Great to have a murder mystery so convincingly in the world of ballet. Also refreshing is that the protagonist is a star feeling her age, not an ingenue. This delightful book set up a lively dysfunctional family and makes us care about the heroine's problems with being accused of murder.
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