What do you think?
Rate this book
Dangerous Dancers #2
Death Dancer
Who knew ballet could be so dangerous?
Val Aalto, a tattooed ballet dancer, stands primed for huge success -- and all he wants is to dance Romeo.
Andrew Preston, a by-the-book detective, chases a serial killer who’s murdering dancers -- and all he wants is to catch him.
When the premier dancer who hates Val’s guts turns up murdered, Val and Andrew meet and what they want gets way hotter!
But mounting evidence makes Val the lead suspect, the killer starts stalking him, and Val’s dance of love turns to a dance with death in the ego-fueled halls of ballet.
DEATH DANCER is a romantic suspense, total opposites attract, creepy serial killer, sexy tatted bad boy, men-in- tights, MM romance – with dessert.
Val Aalto, a tattooed ballet dancer, stands primed for huge success -- and all he wants is to dance Romeo.
Andrew Preston, a by-the-book detective, chases a serial killer who’s murdering dancers -- and all he wants is to catch him.
When the premier dancer who hates Val’s guts turns up murdered, Val and Andrew meet and what they want gets way hotter!
But mounting evidence makes Val the lead suspect, the killer starts stalking him, and Val’s dance of love turns to a dance with death in the ego-fueled halls of ballet.
DEATH DANCER is a romantic suspense, total opposites attract, creepy serial killer, sexy tatted bad boy, men-in- tights, MM romance – with dessert.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
30 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,389 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
March 8, 2018
Okay, tattooed bad-boys of ballet are my weakness. LOL But this is a fun story, it did take me a while to figure out the killer and I liked how he started getting more and more paranoid as you would. I have not read book 1 but given it's m/m/m and they are part of this story, I'm definitely going to check it out. More ballet. I'm always open for more ballet.
December 1, 2016
You can classify this one firmly in the romantic suspense category—it certainly had me on the edge of my seat. And you can trust NO ONE. Absolutely no one. Death Dancer was a great story that piqued my interest right from the very first page, and the further in I got, the tighter the hold it had on me.
Valentin actually didn’t strike me as a stereotypical high-strung, high-maintenance diva dancer type…he felt easier to relate to than that, with a touch of rebel in him (must be the tats!). He’s very independent thanks to the way he was brought up with his life focused on ballet from a very early age. Our detective, Andrew, almost comes across as a bit shy around Val…but once in the bedroom it’s like a whole other man comes out to play. Falling for a witness…maybe even suspect…in his case is not the wisest move on his part but then again the heart never pays attention to that stuff, right?
Val and Andrew definitely had physical chemistry together. Their intimate scenes do throw out a ton of sparks-to the point where I wouldn’t have minded having more of those scenes. For me, the emotional connection between them wasn’t fully there. It may just be me, but you know when you feel two characters just click together? I didn’t quite get to that point. Don’t get me wrong—I really did like them together. Great banter, hot scenes, and there is emotion on each of their parts at different points…I just didn’t get that final click. I think more scene time with them interacting together might have tipped it for me. Much of the story focused on the mystery/suspense aspect so there was less story time for the romance part.
I really liked all of the supporting characters, particularly Mac and Trelain…so of course now I’ve got to go back and read Golden Dancer to get their story (along with Daniel). That brings up the point that even though this book is the second in the Dangerous Dancers series, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Overall, Death Dancer was a strong 4-star read for me, really just short of 4.5. It’s got great characters with depth and an intense, tension-filled storyline that kept my interest the whole way through. M/M romantic suspense fans will love this story, and it is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
Valentin actually didn’t strike me as a stereotypical high-strung, high-maintenance diva dancer type…he felt easier to relate to than that, with a touch of rebel in him (must be the tats!). He’s very independent thanks to the way he was brought up with his life focused on ballet from a very early age. Our detective, Andrew, almost comes across as a bit shy around Val…but once in the bedroom it’s like a whole other man comes out to play. Falling for a witness…maybe even suspect…in his case is not the wisest move on his part but then again the heart never pays attention to that stuff, right?
Val and Andrew definitely had physical chemistry together. Their intimate scenes do throw out a ton of sparks-to the point where I wouldn’t have minded having more of those scenes. For me, the emotional connection between them wasn’t fully there. It may just be me, but you know when you feel two characters just click together? I didn’t quite get to that point. Don’t get me wrong—I really did like them together. Great banter, hot scenes, and there is emotion on each of their parts at different points…I just didn’t get that final click. I think more scene time with them interacting together might have tipped it for me. Much of the story focused on the mystery/suspense aspect so there was less story time for the romance part.
I really liked all of the supporting characters, particularly Mac and Trelain…so of course now I’ve got to go back and read Golden Dancer to get their story (along with Daniel). That brings up the point that even though this book is the second in the Dangerous Dancers series, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Overall, Death Dancer was a strong 4-star read for me, really just short of 4.5. It’s got great characters with depth and an intense, tension-filled storyline that kept my interest the whole way through. M/M romantic suspense fans will love this story, and it is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
December 8, 2016
4.5 out of 5 stars
Description ~
A tattooed dancer and a by-the-book detective dance with death in the ego-fueled halls of ballet.
Bad boy of ballet Valentin ‘Val’ Aalto stands poised on the verge of huge success—except for one big obstacle. Influential lead dancer Harry Hardesty hates Val and cheats him out of the lead in Romeo and Juliet.
When Hardesty winds up dead, Val looks like a prime suspect—and gets thrown under the detailed and methodical inspection of the handsome NY detective with the stick up his butt, Andrew Preston. At first, Preston believes Hardesty may be the victim of the chilling Dancer Killer who’s struck three victims, but evidence stacks up against Val.
Still, Andrew can’t seem to keep his hands off his suspect and when the Dancer Killer starts stalking Val, Andrew is forced to choose between his dedication to a job he loves and his growing passion for his beautiful dancer. Together Val and Andrew discover that chaos can be beautiful, one should choose desserts wisely, and love can even trump death in the rehearsal halls of ballet.
My Review ~
Death Dancer is the second book in the Dangerous Dancers series by Tara Lain. This could be read as a standalone but I enjoyed the first book and highly recommend reading the books in order.
We briefly met Val in the previous book in this series when he was in he corp de ballet while Trelain was dancing as Principal. Val is now a rising star but being held back by a narcissistic principal dancer who's jealous of him. Harold uses his limited power to stop Val from getting roles that are perfect for him. Armed with his wealthy 'sponsors' Harold uses that clout to be as obnoxious as possible to everyone at NYBT. Val is quite the opposite, he is well liked by almost everyone from the choreographers down to the newest member of the corps.
Andrew is investigating a series of deaths involving male dancers and ends up a NYBT when one of the corps dancers is murdered. He is immediately drawn to Val but tries to keep his professionalism as he's working a case. They end up going to dinner so Andrew and get some insight from Val and then end up having sex at Val's apartment. Things go south from there as there is another murder that points at Val as being the prime suspect. Unfortunately both men have issues staying away from the other due to their very intense attraction.
This series may be written by Tara Lain but it feels different than her other series. The Dangerous Dancers series is more romantic suspense than just contemporary romance or her paranormal series. It's a darker and grittier series and the characters are still the pretty boys but they're also different from her normal characters.
Death Dancer is a well paced, action driven story with multifaceted characters. There are some darker elements to this story due to the murders, which are described to some extent. Also, Andrew and Val have faced issues going back to childhood that give both a cynical edge. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, in fact I liked it more than the first book. Don't get me wrong I loved Trelain, Mac, and Daniel, but Death Dancer has more suspense elements along with some very steamy hot sex scenes between Andrew and Val.
This, and Golden Dancer are ones you should pick up and enjoy and put on your re-read list to catch the little things you may have missed the first time you read through them. I highly recommend this story both as an excellent Tara Lain book but as a good overall romantic suspense book.
Description ~
A tattooed dancer and a by-the-book detective dance with death in the ego-fueled halls of ballet.
Bad boy of ballet Valentin ‘Val’ Aalto stands poised on the verge of huge success—except for one big obstacle. Influential lead dancer Harry Hardesty hates Val and cheats him out of the lead in Romeo and Juliet.
When Hardesty winds up dead, Val looks like a prime suspect—and gets thrown under the detailed and methodical inspection of the handsome NY detective with the stick up his butt, Andrew Preston. At first, Preston believes Hardesty may be the victim of the chilling Dancer Killer who’s struck three victims, but evidence stacks up against Val.
Still, Andrew can’t seem to keep his hands off his suspect and when the Dancer Killer starts stalking Val, Andrew is forced to choose between his dedication to a job he loves and his growing passion for his beautiful dancer. Together Val and Andrew discover that chaos can be beautiful, one should choose desserts wisely, and love can even trump death in the rehearsal halls of ballet.
My Review ~
Death Dancer is the second book in the Dangerous Dancers series by Tara Lain. This could be read as a standalone but I enjoyed the first book and highly recommend reading the books in order.
We briefly met Val in the previous book in this series when he was in he corp de ballet while Trelain was dancing as Principal. Val is now a rising star but being held back by a narcissistic principal dancer who's jealous of him. Harold uses his limited power to stop Val from getting roles that are perfect for him. Armed with his wealthy 'sponsors' Harold uses that clout to be as obnoxious as possible to everyone at NYBT. Val is quite the opposite, he is well liked by almost everyone from the choreographers down to the newest member of the corps.
Andrew is investigating a series of deaths involving male dancers and ends up a NYBT when one of the corps dancers is murdered. He is immediately drawn to Val but tries to keep his professionalism as he's working a case. They end up going to dinner so Andrew and get some insight from Val and then end up having sex at Val's apartment. Things go south from there as there is another murder that points at Val as being the prime suspect. Unfortunately both men have issues staying away from the other due to their very intense attraction.
This series may be written by Tara Lain but it feels different than her other series. The Dangerous Dancers series is more romantic suspense than just contemporary romance or her paranormal series. It's a darker and grittier series and the characters are still the pretty boys but they're also different from her normal characters.
Death Dancer is a well paced, action driven story with multifaceted characters. There are some darker elements to this story due to the murders, which are described to some extent. Also, Andrew and Val have faced issues going back to childhood that give both a cynical edge. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, in fact I liked it more than the first book. Don't get me wrong I loved Trelain, Mac, and Daniel, but Death Dancer has more suspense elements along with some very steamy hot sex scenes between Andrew and Val.
This, and Golden Dancer are ones you should pick up and enjoy and put on your re-read list to catch the little things you may have missed the first time you read through them. I highly recommend this story both as an excellent Tara Lain book but as a good overall romantic suspense book.
November 29, 2016
The world of professional dancing is rife with drama, intrigue, and back stabbing and that's before someone starts killing off the dancers! The very last thing Detective Andrew Preston needs is to get involved with the tatted up dancer who had motive to kill the man who cheated him out of a big part. Things only get complicated because Andrew and Val both know he has an alibi - just not one that will look good to Andrew's superiors. As the danger gets closer to Val, Andrew races to find the killer before his lover falls victim or gets arrested for a crime he didn't commit.
Val and Andrew are off the charts hot together, work conflicts only adding to the naughty factor, and when Mr. Shy Detective turns Dominant Lover, I was all in. The whodunit was great and even when I thought I had all the pieces, I didn't realize how they fit together until they were standing in the same room.
This book was a complete turn around from the first one, which left me feeling like I was missing something. In fact, I liked Daniel, Trelain, and Mac so much more as supporting characters in this book. If you're like me, you should read the series in order, but this could totally be read as a stand alone.
Val and Andrew are off the charts hot together, work conflicts only adding to the naughty factor, and when Mr. Shy Detective turns Dominant Lover, I was all in. The whodunit was great and even when I thought I had all the pieces, I didn't realize how they fit together until they were standing in the same room.
This book was a complete turn around from the first one, which left me feeling like I was missing something. In fact, I liked Daniel, Trelain, and Mac so much more as supporting characters in this book. If you're like me, you should read the series in order, but this could totally be read as a stand alone.
December 2, 2016
I love, love, loved reading Golden Dancer, so stumbling upon the second installment in the series was an awesome surprise. You could possibly get away with skipping the first, but I really don't recommend it.
Writing - 5 Stars!
Characters - 5 Stars!
Plot - 5 Stars!
I have two quibbles. I want more dance. More description and scenes in the world of dance. Not a ton, but definitely more than was in Death Dancer. My second quibble is a big one. Not enough sex! I know you can write it, Ms. Lain, and well. I read the "Genetic" series as well as Golden Dancer. What happened? I loved the added mystery you wrote, but if it comes at the cost of the hot and heavy, count me out. Still, please keep writing more gorgeous dancers! I want to read many more in the future.
Writing - 5 Stars!
Characters - 5 Stars!
Plot - 5 Stars!
I have two quibbles. I want more dance. More description and scenes in the world of dance. Not a ton, but definitely more than was in Death Dancer. My second quibble is a big one. Not enough sex! I know you can write it, Ms. Lain, and well. I read the "Genetic" series as well as Golden Dancer. What happened? I loved the added mystery you wrote, but if it comes at the cost of the hot and heavy, count me out. Still, please keep writing more gorgeous dancers! I want to read many more in the future.
November 8, 2016
I loved book 1 in this series, Golden Dancer but I loved Death Dancer even more. So much mystery and intrigue! This story will keep you on the edge of your seat. I love the characters that Tara Lain creates. They are all so unique. You instantly become drawn into their world.!
November 24, 2016
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Val, an aspiring principal dancer, is a wonderful character and I thoroughly enjoyed the intensity and drama as the police chase a serial killer targeting the dancers in his company. Skinny, catty and bitchy, the dancers and management at NYBT reinforce every stereotype about the world of professional dancing. I loved the complex politics and complicated relationships in this story.
I enjoyed the suspense, especially as Val finds himself being pursued by the killer. Frustratingly, the killer’s identity was disappointingly predictable from the halfway point (or possibly even earlier) and I found Val’s blindness to obvious clues frustrating after a while. The ending is exciting but I hated the predictability of it.
The romance in this story is between Val and Andrew, the lead detective assigned to the murders. This isn’t my favourite Tara Lain paring - the instant attraction - casual dating- HEA felt very simplistic and a little too pragmatic. The passion and romance I would expect from a famous artist was missing in this relationship. I enjoyed the tentative lack of trust between these two men as Val becomes a prime suspect at one point, but I still needed more passion to fully believe in Val and Andrew.
I also wanted to know Andrew better. In some ways, his partner has more character and unique qualities than he does. Andrew reads as a dedicated, bearish cop but the story is told mostly from Val’s perspective and I didn’t feel I completely knew Andrew.
The ballet is the star of this story and I really loved both the dancing and the dancers.
Val, an aspiring principal dancer, is a wonderful character and I thoroughly enjoyed the intensity and drama as the police chase a serial killer targeting the dancers in his company. Skinny, catty and bitchy, the dancers and management at NYBT reinforce every stereotype about the world of professional dancing. I loved the complex politics and complicated relationships in this story.
I enjoyed the suspense, especially as Val finds himself being pursued by the killer. Frustratingly, the killer’s identity was disappointingly predictable from the halfway point (or possibly even earlier) and I found Val’s blindness to obvious clues frustrating after a while. The ending is exciting but I hated the predictability of it.
The romance in this story is between Val and Andrew, the lead detective assigned to the murders. This isn’t my favourite Tara Lain paring - the instant attraction - casual dating- HEA felt very simplistic and a little too pragmatic. The passion and romance I would expect from a famous artist was missing in this relationship. I enjoyed the tentative lack of trust between these two men as Val becomes a prime suspect at one point, but I still needed more passion to fully believe in Val and Andrew.
I also wanted to know Andrew better. In some ways, his partner has more character and unique qualities than he does. Andrew reads as a dedicated, bearish cop but the story is told mostly from Val’s perspective and I didn’t feel I completely knew Andrew.
The ballet is the star of this story and I really loved both the dancing and the dancers.
November 29, 2016
**4.5 Stars**
I am obsessed with Tara Lain, so I was very excited to see the next book in this series being published – and it did NOT disappoint!
In Death Dancer, we meet Val – a brilliant dancer who is next in line to step into the limelight with one obstacle in his way. Or so you think. But what unfolds as we learn more about his position as a dancer at the company, is anything but boring. As part of the investigation that wraps itself around Val, Andrew – the detective in charge of the case, can’t seem to leave Val alone (in the best way possible). Throughout the murder mystery, we see Val and Andrew fight each other while keeping each other safe and strong – in case something bad is lurking around the next corner.
I absolutely loved both characters – they were different and deep, just the right touch of information was revealed without it ever feeling like characteristics were being listed out. Add that to a mystery (or two?) case, and I read it in one setting. It was really just that good. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series – where strength is shown in different ways, and comes together to make a beautiful dance.
Review Copy of Death Dancer provided by Pride Publishing for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
I am obsessed with Tara Lain, so I was very excited to see the next book in this series being published – and it did NOT disappoint!
In Death Dancer, we meet Val – a brilliant dancer who is next in line to step into the limelight with one obstacle in his way. Or so you think. But what unfolds as we learn more about his position as a dancer at the company, is anything but boring. As part of the investigation that wraps itself around Val, Andrew – the detective in charge of the case, can’t seem to leave Val alone (in the best way possible). Throughout the murder mystery, we see Val and Andrew fight each other while keeping each other safe and strong – in case something bad is lurking around the next corner.
I absolutely loved both characters – they were different and deep, just the right touch of information was revealed without it ever feeling like characteristics were being listed out. Add that to a mystery (or two?) case, and I read it in one setting. It was really just that good. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series – where strength is shown in different ways, and comes together to make a beautiful dance.
Review Copy of Death Dancer provided by Pride Publishing for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
November 29, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series - and whilst it can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend that you read them in order as they are great stories, which link.
The mixing of a murder mystery, and a hot and steamy romance works very well - in fact there were times where I had to stop reading, in case things went the wrong way! I guessed one of the big reveals, but that actually made it more tense, waiting for the shoe to drop! It was very subtle how the leads from book 1 entered the story, and ended up being key to certain plot lines.
Being immersed into the world of ballet dancers and their diva behaviour was fascinating and fun. Coupled with a straight-laced, but gay policeman who is captivated by Val, the level of drama, and chemistry is extremely engaging. The dynamics between the two men, and the realisations of how they could look forward and move beyond their pasts, all added to the hotness.
Highly recommended if you like your romance hot and to be couched in a good mystery/police procedural.
This is the second book in the series - and whilst it can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend that you read them in order as they are great stories, which link.
The mixing of a murder mystery, and a hot and steamy romance works very well - in fact there were times where I had to stop reading, in case things went the wrong way! I guessed one of the big reveals, but that actually made it more tense, waiting for the shoe to drop! It was very subtle how the leads from book 1 entered the story, and ended up being key to certain plot lines.
Being immersed into the world of ballet dancers and their diva behaviour was fascinating and fun. Coupled with a straight-laced, but gay policeman who is captivated by Val, the level of drama, and chemistry is extremely engaging. The dynamics between the two men, and the realisations of how they could look forward and move beyond their pasts, all added to the hotness.
Highly recommended if you like your romance hot and to be couched in a good mystery/police procedural.
July 10, 2017
A sweet story of a dancer and cop who fall in love in the midst of murder and mayhem. I enjoyed this very much and it was nice to revisit with the MCs from Golden Dancer that I read many moons ago.
The mystery in this one was fairly easy to solve, but it was the characters that made the story. Both great MCs in their own way, I was happy to see them paired up and of course, to get their HEA.
The mystery in this one was fairly easy to solve, but it was the characters that made the story. Both great MCs in their own way, I was happy to see them paired up and of course, to get their HEA.
November 7, 2016
Wow! This fantastic story gives an up close and personal glimpse into the cutthroat world of ballet, where who you know triumphs over talent when it comes to getting the roles that can put you into the spotlight. Throw in a serial killer, backstabbing and manipulations, a sexy dancer, a handsome police detective, and an ending you'll never see coming, and you have a fantastic story you can't put down.
December 4, 2016
Fall in love with Bad Boy Valantin ‘Val’ Aalto a ballet dancer that is tattooed and accused of murder. He is rescued by NY Detective Andrew Preston. They are a great match! There is a serial killer running around NY killing off Ballet Dancers...There are some great twists in this mystery that keep you wondering did he do it???? No he couldn't have that's too obvious but then again maybe. This will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing who the killer is.
December 9, 2016
The romance between Val and Andrew is both sweet and hot. I don’t want to give too much away about the plot. Let me just say, if you like romantic suspense, you’re going to love this book. http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
December 21, 2016
Wonderful! Who would of thought to put a cop and a ballet dancer together? Thank you Tara, great story with a good mystery, yummy love scenes and great dialogue. On my favorites list.
May 9, 2021
3 stars
The romance/relationship was ok. The mystery was ok. Both needed to be fleshed out more.
An enjoyable read, though.
The romance/relationship was ok. The mystery was ok. Both needed to be fleshed out more.
An enjoyable read, though.
March 10, 2021
This is a great story that I did not want to put down. The story kept me on the edge of my seat in both anticipation and suspense. I don’t want to say too much in fear of giving something away. There is definitely something for everyone to enjoy in this story.
November 29, 2016
Okay, so after reading the blurb for Death Dancer, it was clear to me that I had to get my hands on the book. Yeah, that was definitely a great decision, because Tara Lain totally knocked it out of the park with this book. Honestly, Death Dancer was fantastic!
Valentin Aalto has been training in ballet since he was three years old. Now, in his twenties, Val is one of the principles of NYBT (New York Ballet Theater) and trying as hard as he can to work his way up the ladder. Only one thing (or person, to be more exact) is holding him back now: Harry Hardesty. Harry is an arrogant, cocksure man with an ego bigger that Kanye West’s, and less talent in his entire being that Val has in his pinky finger. Harry even threatened to leave the NYBT if Val was cast as the principal male lead in Romeo and Juliet. Which basically put a halt to whatever machinations the higher ups had in regards to how they envisioned the play to go.
Valentin desperately wants the part in Romeo and Juliet, but gets ousted by little more than a tatrum and empty threats made by his rival, Harry. Tho the demands were outlandish, the upper echelon of the powers that be at NYBT caved and acquiesced to Harry’s ridiculous complaints and threats. So Val was cast as Tybalt, while Harry himself was cast as… Yep, you guessed it: Romeo. Which caused confusion and anger with most of the NYBT students. Not that it took much for everyone to rally around Val; he was well liked, as opposed to the barely tolerated Harry Hardesty.
Well, turns out there are all these murders going on within the general vicinity of the theater, and the victims are male dancers. The last of which belonged to NYBT. Queue Detective Andrew Preston. Sexy, tall, built Detective Andrew Preston, by the way. And, Val can’t keep his eyes off the man. It is instant attraction between the detective and ballet dancer, but the two men try to ignore it for the sake of the investigation. However, it is very hard to ignore their attraction when they keep bumping into each other. So, they start seeing each other in secret. Then, Harry is murdered and Val is one of their main suspects. I mean, c’mon… Harry is dead, Val was openly feuding with Harry before his untimely demise, and now everything Val wanted is finally coming his way. The NYBT needs a principle to step in and dance all of Harry’s roles, and of course Val is asked to be said dancer. It certainly doesn’t look good for Val.
Is Val the serial killer that the police are trying to find? Can Val and Andrew keep their relationship a secret? Can our two men even continue a relationship the closer they get to finding out who is killing all the male dancers in town? Was Harry a victim of the serial killer, or is there another murderer out on the loose somewhere? For the answer to this and many more questions you may have, do get and read the book. It’s killer! Not literally, of course.
I highly recommend this book. Especially if you are a fan of the ballet, gay romance, or simply of Tara Lain’s other books. She is phenomenally talented, and this book is no exception to her brilliant library of works. I, for one, plan to get it in paperback when it comes out, then in audiobook form if it ever becomes available.
STORY: 4
BUY LINKS:
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Death-Dancer-D...
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/death...
Pride Publishing: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book...
Valentin Aalto has been training in ballet since he was three years old. Now, in his twenties, Val is one of the principles of NYBT (New York Ballet Theater) and trying as hard as he can to work his way up the ladder. Only one thing (or person, to be more exact) is holding him back now: Harry Hardesty. Harry is an arrogant, cocksure man with an ego bigger that Kanye West’s, and less talent in his entire being that Val has in his pinky finger. Harry even threatened to leave the NYBT if Val was cast as the principal male lead in Romeo and Juliet. Which basically put a halt to whatever machinations the higher ups had in regards to how they envisioned the play to go.
Valentin desperately wants the part in Romeo and Juliet, but gets ousted by little more than a tatrum and empty threats made by his rival, Harry. Tho the demands were outlandish, the upper echelon of the powers that be at NYBT caved and acquiesced to Harry’s ridiculous complaints and threats. So Val was cast as Tybalt, while Harry himself was cast as… Yep, you guessed it: Romeo. Which caused confusion and anger with most of the NYBT students. Not that it took much for everyone to rally around Val; he was well liked, as opposed to the barely tolerated Harry Hardesty.
Well, turns out there are all these murders going on within the general vicinity of the theater, and the victims are male dancers. The last of which belonged to NYBT. Queue Detective Andrew Preston. Sexy, tall, built Detective Andrew Preston, by the way. And, Val can’t keep his eyes off the man. It is instant attraction between the detective and ballet dancer, but the two men try to ignore it for the sake of the investigation. However, it is very hard to ignore their attraction when they keep bumping into each other. So, they start seeing each other in secret. Then, Harry is murdered and Val is one of their main suspects. I mean, c’mon… Harry is dead, Val was openly feuding with Harry before his untimely demise, and now everything Val wanted is finally coming his way. The NYBT needs a principle to step in and dance all of Harry’s roles, and of course Val is asked to be said dancer. It certainly doesn’t look good for Val.
Is Val the serial killer that the police are trying to find? Can Val and Andrew keep their relationship a secret? Can our two men even continue a relationship the closer they get to finding out who is killing all the male dancers in town? Was Harry a victim of the serial killer, or is there another murderer out on the loose somewhere? For the answer to this and many more questions you may have, do get and read the book. It’s killer! Not literally, of course.
I highly recommend this book. Especially if you are a fan of the ballet, gay romance, or simply of Tara Lain’s other books. She is phenomenally talented, and this book is no exception to her brilliant library of works. I, for one, plan to get it in paperback when it comes out, then in audiobook form if it ever becomes available.
STORY: 4
BUY LINKS:
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Death-Dancer-D...
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/death...
Pride Publishing: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book...
November 30, 2016
This is a great follow up to golden dancer. we get a dancer who is charismatic and sexy as all getup. He isn’t a diva but is kind and stands up for others. We have a detective who when behind closed doors holy batcave does he become a sexy mama. He is sexy anyways but man when he is with Val alone you need to fan yourself. We get a series of murders that are intricately tied and you would never figure out who it was till the end. Seriously many different turns there. A tale of danger intrigue mystery and romance.
Val is one swoony tatted dancer. . He was one that was lost in many ways. he wanted to feel loved and wanted. Why? He feels he isn’t one that people care about. His parents sacrificed in an emotional way and that hurt Val but helped him become a independent, ambitious and amazing guy. We see a man that is resilient and disciplined but shone like the sun. He had something that attracted you to him.
He is cast aside alot due to a diva dancer Hardesty is seriously not nice. I do wonder what he had on the owners of NYBT that kept him as principal and feeding his demands. He holds Val back and hurts others so it isn’t a stretch to see him get what he did. For me though his outcome hurt Val and Andrew (the detective). It tested their feelings and trust in one another.
Val tested Andrew in many ways. He had him lose control. Something that for Andrew is needed. It helps him feel safe and calm. Val changes this for him and it does fluster him. It also makes him feel alive. At the end when Val,Trelain and Mac pulled that zinger we see the true feelings of Andrew and my heart went out to him. This brought them back to each other as well so as much as I hated to see it it was necessary for many reasons.
Andrew was great as well. watching him try to solve the murders and deal with his feelings was hard. You wanted him to be happy but also not feel so conflicted. He was lost without Val and we see this in so many ways. Andrew was a kind, smart and honest guy. When he was warring over his future it breaks your heart but his love for Val is so heartwarming that you just root for these two to come together in the end.
The story overall all will grab you. We have a romance that brings both parties to their knees and is so sensual and beautiful. We have a mystery that takes turns that aren’t expected and keeps you guessing. We get characters from the first book bringing a smile to your face for they come back and help Val in many ways. We have the plot of the dance world and how people are there. We see the ins and outs and the hard work involved to be where they are. Val and Andrew will give you sensual moments that will having you fanning yourself, sweet tender moments that melt you and that scene in the bathroom so heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. We see the extent of their love in that moment. The restaurant dates were adorable and we get to learn more about these two.
This is a story of murder, danger, intrigue and love. Of finding someone and trusting them. Of letting go and letting your feelings take over. Of protecting those you love and taking bold moves when needed. You are grabbed the moment you meet Val and Andrew and are wanting more to the end. You are kept on your toes and your heart gets so many feels throughout the book to the very end that will truly keep you at the edge of the seat until the last moment.
Val is one swoony tatted dancer. . He was one that was lost in many ways. he wanted to feel loved and wanted. Why? He feels he isn’t one that people care about. His parents sacrificed in an emotional way and that hurt Val but helped him become a independent, ambitious and amazing guy. We see a man that is resilient and disciplined but shone like the sun. He had something that attracted you to him.
He is cast aside alot due to a diva dancer Hardesty is seriously not nice. I do wonder what he had on the owners of NYBT that kept him as principal and feeding his demands. He holds Val back and hurts others so it isn’t a stretch to see him get what he did. For me though his outcome hurt Val and Andrew (the detective). It tested their feelings and trust in one another.
Val tested Andrew in many ways. He had him lose control. Something that for Andrew is needed. It helps him feel safe and calm. Val changes this for him and it does fluster him. It also makes him feel alive. At the end when Val,Trelain and Mac pulled that zinger we see the true feelings of Andrew and my heart went out to him. This brought them back to each other as well so as much as I hated to see it it was necessary for many reasons.
Andrew was great as well. watching him try to solve the murders and deal with his feelings was hard. You wanted him to be happy but also not feel so conflicted. He was lost without Val and we see this in so many ways. Andrew was a kind, smart and honest guy. When he was warring over his future it breaks your heart but his love for Val is so heartwarming that you just root for these two to come together in the end.
The story overall all will grab you. We have a romance that brings both parties to their knees and is so sensual and beautiful. We have a mystery that takes turns that aren’t expected and keeps you guessing. We get characters from the first book bringing a smile to your face for they come back and help Val in many ways. We have the plot of the dance world and how people are there. We see the ins and outs and the hard work involved to be where they are. Val and Andrew will give you sensual moments that will having you fanning yourself, sweet tender moments that melt you and that scene in the bathroom so heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. We see the extent of their love in that moment. The restaurant dates were adorable and we get to learn more about these two.
This is a story of murder, danger, intrigue and love. Of finding someone and trusting them. Of letting go and letting your feelings take over. Of protecting those you love and taking bold moves when needed. You are grabbed the moment you meet Val and Andrew and are wanting more to the end. You are kept on your toes and your heart gets so many feels throughout the book to the very end that will truly keep you at the edge of the seat until the last moment.
June 12, 2017
3.5 stars. I read Golden Dancer a while back and it was a fairly fun romp so reading this second book, I hoped for the same. It actually had a more serious tone than the first, for several reasons. In book one the villains were almost caricatures but this story has a murderer and a real detective trying to solve it. When a dancer from the ballet theater is killed, Andrew meets Valentin, a soon-to-be premier dancer. They end up together as the mystery deepens but there's a conflict that develops when Valentin's rival is killed and Val becomes a suspect. Mac and Trelain, from book one are also characters in this story, with Mac playing a substantial part.
There was much that was good but also things that could have been done better. The dance theater setting felt fairly authentic, as far as the rivalries and behind the scenes politics. Dance terminology wasn't overdone or made too technical. I did question the amount of alcohol Val seemed to consume for a dedicated dancer but that wasn't crucial. There wasn't a lot of police or investigative procedure but what was shown did seem accurate. I can't say that all of the characterization rang true. There were quirks that Andrew had that were never really developed, such as the OCD he was supposed to have. It was presented rather off-handedly with infrequent references to the cause. Not enough information to support the first full sex scene, when the previously reticent, shy, blushing cop was supposed to become super toppy. It just didn't mesh well. I didn't really feel any true emotional connection between Andrew and Valentin, so their conflicts had little impact for me.
The mystery wasn't bad, with several red-herrings added but it was fairly evident who two of the perpetrators would be. It wasn't so easy to determine their exact roles though, so that was good. There were some plot holes left open that needed to be resolved and one could have been left out altogether. So, good but not great and rounded up to four because Male Ballet Dancer!
There was much that was good but also things that could have been done better. The dance theater setting felt fairly authentic, as far as the rivalries and behind the scenes politics. Dance terminology wasn't overdone or made too technical. I did question the amount of alcohol Val seemed to consume for a dedicated dancer but that wasn't crucial. There wasn't a lot of police or investigative procedure but what was shown did seem accurate. I can't say that all of the characterization rang true. There were quirks that Andrew had that were never really developed, such as the OCD he was supposed to have. It was presented rather off-handedly with infrequent references to the cause. Not enough information to support the first full sex scene, when the previously reticent, shy, blushing cop was supposed to become super toppy. It just didn't mesh well. I didn't really feel any true emotional connection between Andrew and Valentin, so their conflicts had little impact for me.
The mystery wasn't bad, with several red-herrings added but it was fairly evident who two of the perpetrators would be. It wasn't so easy to determine their exact roles though, so that was good. There were some plot holes left open that needed to be resolved and one could have been left out altogether. So, good but not great and rounded up to four because Male Ballet Dancer!
November 30, 2016
4.25 / 5 Stars
Valentin ‘Val’ Aalto is the new hot stuff in the ballet world. He's about to have his big opportunity until his well-known enemy Harry Hardesty takes the main role for himself. Things get nastier when Harry ends up dead and people begins to wonder if his murder was done by the Dancer Killer that has been stalking and killing ballet dancers in a particular way... or if maybe Val decided to take the matter into his own hands.
However, the handsome and shy NY detective Andrew Preston doesn't believe Val is the culprit and is ready to do anything do prove it. Of course, that won't be easy if he doesn't have all his focus on the case... Val is a sexy distraction hard to resist.
I really liked Val, he's snarky, witty, funny and absolutely handsome. Sometimes he made me laugh with the things he said/thought. I can't say the same thing about Andrew though, it took me a while to warm up to him. One moment, he was the timid detective who can't stop blushing and next one, he's in full-dom mode. I thought this phase was going to be explored more and mybe I was going to get more dom-like scenes but no such luck. I liked that they didn't went straight to bed despite the attraction. They weren't very slow either.
I wasn't sure what to expect from all the mystery. Truth be told, at 30% I already had an idea who might be involved and when I reached 50% I had no doubts left. I would have liked it if the suspense had been prolonged but it wasn't something that distract me from Val's and Andrew's relationship.
Overall, I pretty much enjoyed it and I would love if the author decides to write a sequel, I want to read more about these characters.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book*
Valentin ‘Val’ Aalto is the new hot stuff in the ballet world. He's about to have his big opportunity until his well-known enemy Harry Hardesty takes the main role for himself. Things get nastier when Harry ends up dead and people begins to wonder if his murder was done by the Dancer Killer that has been stalking and killing ballet dancers in a particular way... or if maybe Val decided to take the matter into his own hands.
However, the handsome and shy NY detective Andrew Preston doesn't believe Val is the culprit and is ready to do anything do prove it. Of course, that won't be easy if he doesn't have all his focus on the case... Val is a sexy distraction hard to resist.
I really liked Val, he's snarky, witty, funny and absolutely handsome. Sometimes he made me laugh with the things he said/thought. I can't say the same thing about Andrew though, it took me a while to warm up to him. One moment, he was the timid detective who can't stop blushing and next one, he's in full-dom mode. I thought this phase was going to be explored more and mybe I was going to get more dom-like scenes but no such luck. I liked that they didn't went straight to bed despite the attraction. They weren't very slow either.
I wasn't sure what to expect from all the mystery. Truth be told, at 30% I already had an idea who might be involved and when I reached 50% I had no doubts left. I would have liked it if the suspense had been prolonged but it wasn't something that distract me from Val's and Andrew's relationship.
Overall, I pretty much enjoyed it and I would love if the author decides to write a sequel, I want to read more about these characters.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book*
November 26, 2016
Death Dancer (Dangerous Dancers #2) by Tara Lain
3.5 stars
M/M Mystery
Triggers: Murder, hints at child abuse
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Val is a dancer who could be the next big thing. However, there is one tiny problem...Harold. Harold is a mean man who is petty and horrible, a semi-OK dancer, but he comes with money.
Val is trying to hold everything he's worked so hard for, together, but with things falling apart around him, Val is weighing his options.
Dancers are being hurt all around and when the dancers that are being stalked and murdered hit close to the home of Val, he has to wonder if he's next.
Andrew is trying his best to figure out why dancers are being targeted. He seems dedicated, but at the same time, he's conflicted because he's drawn to Val. I didn't really like Andrew's character - he was wishy-washy and hard to relate to. I didn't really feel that you got to know him - rather, he was one dimensional.
The murder mystery is predictable, which was unfortunate. I knew who the "bad guy" was less than half way through the story and the fact that it took so long to "figure it out" was both frustrating and kind of funny.
Overall, this was just an OK book for me. The predictability and the lack of heat between the main characters were turn offs. I liked the mystery aspect and this book had a lot of potential, I just didn't feel that it delivered.
3.5 stars
M/M Mystery
Triggers: Murder, hints at child abuse
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Val is a dancer who could be the next big thing. However, there is one tiny problem...Harold. Harold is a mean man who is petty and horrible, a semi-OK dancer, but he comes with money.
Val is trying to hold everything he's worked so hard for, together, but with things falling apart around him, Val is weighing his options.
Dancers are being hurt all around and when the dancers that are being stalked and murdered hit close to the home of Val, he has to wonder if he's next.
Andrew is trying his best to figure out why dancers are being targeted. He seems dedicated, but at the same time, he's conflicted because he's drawn to Val. I didn't really like Andrew's character - he was wishy-washy and hard to relate to. I didn't really feel that you got to know him - rather, he was one dimensional.
The murder mystery is predictable, which was unfortunate. I knew who the "bad guy" was less than half way through the story and the fact that it took so long to "figure it out" was both frustrating and kind of funny.
Overall, this was just an OK book for me. The predictability and the lack of heat between the main characters were turn offs. I liked the mystery aspect and this book had a lot of potential, I just didn't feel that it delivered.
November 29, 2016
4.5 Stars
This is book 2 in the Dangerous Dancers series. In book 1 we meet the trio Daniel, Trelain and Mac. While their story was good, and I love the role they play in this story, book 2 is so much better.
The crazy world of professional ballet is murder, literally! It's not often a whodunit keeps me guessing yet this one did and I love that! Just enough slight of hand and misdirection kept the pages turning and me glued to my kindle.
The chemistry between Val and Andrew-damn! There was a balance that was in turns sweet and passionate. Love how they both come into their own, creating a beautiful love story with more than a few bumps along the way.
Did a little happy dance at the end (yum Daniel) and can't wait for the next dancer story!
This is book 2 in the Dangerous Dancers series. In book 1 we meet the trio Daniel, Trelain and Mac. While their story was good, and I love the role they play in this story, book 2 is so much better.
The crazy world of professional ballet is murder, literally! It's not often a whodunit keeps me guessing yet this one did and I love that! Just enough slight of hand and misdirection kept the pages turning and me glued to my kindle.
The chemistry between Val and Andrew-damn! There was a balance that was in turns sweet and passionate. Love how they both come into their own, creating a beautiful love story with more than a few bumps along the way.
Did a little happy dance at the end (yum Daniel) and can't wait for the next dancer story!
December 2, 2016
Almost but not quite.
This second book in the Dangerous Dancers series wasn't quite as good as the first one. There was plenty of mystery and intrigue but not the visceral romantic connection between the MCs.
Valentin was fully fleshed out with a charming personality but Andrew didn't resonate at all. He was almost like a secondary character to the romantic element of the story. I didn't get the same feeling of "these guys belong together" like I did in the first book.
Hopefully, if there is to be a third book, the MCs will have a more heartfelt emotional connection.
This second book in the Dangerous Dancers series wasn't quite as good as the first one. There was plenty of mystery and intrigue but not the visceral romantic connection between the MCs.
Valentin was fully fleshed out with a charming personality but Andrew didn't resonate at all. He was almost like a secondary character to the romantic element of the story. I didn't get the same feeling of "these guys belong together" like I did in the first book.
Hopefully, if there is to be a third book, the MCs will have a more heartfelt emotional connection.
January 8, 2017
I REALLY enjoyed this book! It has everything. The characters are so well written and the storyline keeps you turning the page! I find myself liking a little mystery in my reading lately and this was a good one. I also liked the visit of the previous character from Golden Dancer. Looking forward to another in this series!
February 6, 2017
This is the first work I've read by this author, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. I recall trying the amazon free sample of the first book, and it didn't hold my interest. However, this one grabbed me and refused to let go. Good characters, good dynamics, good plot and settings, tension's great, and the end was good. Well done!
December 12, 2021
4.5 stars. Picking up some of the books I didn't read in the past. I really liked this one. I liked the writing style. Short and to the point as the police investigate a serial killer of ballet performers. I have to admit I am really acquiring a taste for well built, tights wearing ballet men. Yum!
June 15, 2017
Ahh, the tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive. I LOVED this book. When you read the blurb for this story, it touts ballet, sex and murder, and that is exactly what you get from this latest installment in the Dangerous Dancers Series from Tara Lain. The first book in the series, Golden Dancer, was really well written, so much so I worried for the second book having such a high bar to live up to. Death Dancer surpasses it. Valentin is a grounded, solidly sexy (and he knows it) MC, and pairing him with an OCD detective with strong Dom overtones truly sets you up for an amazing story. You don’t really have to read the first book before this one, but the trio of MCs from the first book do reappear here as supporting characters. I loved the ballet settings, the appropriate ballet terminology used, and the real life feel of Val’s life in his dance troupe. You can tell there was quite a bit of research into life in the ballet, and I appreciate that in an author.
Valentin “Val” Aalto is a complicated man. At twenty-one years old, he has been living and working at the New York Ballet since he was a child. Snarky, sexy, aware of his body as only a dancer can be, he is out and proud of all he has accomplished in his short life. However, it seems he has hit a ceiling on how far he can go at the ballet corp. Hardesty is the present lead male dancer, and he despises Val. The enmity between the two is well known; it doesn’t matter that there is enmity between Hardesty and the whole company—especially when he winds up dead. There is a serial killer stalking the dancers of NY, and the victims are not just within their own troupe. All leads start to point to Val for a variety of reasons, but at the same time, that same evidence could mean the killer is really after Val as his next victim.
Andrew Preston decided on a police career for a lot of reasons. The top reason being he needs to be in control of his life, and the thoughtful, methodical plodding of police work gives him that. Coming from a disjointed, chaotic childhood, Andrew NEEDS the step-by-step rigid rules of the law. He recognizes this in himself, but that doesn’t mean he can change it. Val represents so much chaos to him. Val is a dancer, a free spirit, a man with a mind of his own and not afraid to let you know it. Andrew is drawn to Val like a moth to a flame—scared to death of what havoc the man will wreak in his life but powerless to stop the pull.
This book is pure romantic suspense. The mystery and intrigue draw a story around the MCs, and help to push them together as a couple. The story is well paced, it’s action driven as opposed to character driven, but we still get well rounded, solidly written characters. The secondary characters are colorful and help support the storyline nicely. I positively loved Andrew’s partner Ilke, with her hot pink Doc Martens. The mystery is a good one, the killer not obvious right away, and the chemistry between the MCs is off the charts, along with the sex.
I highly recommend this book for those who love their romance liberally sprinkled with dead bodies and the suspense that comes between a hot ginger cop and a power bottom of a ballet dancer with buns of steel.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
Valentin “Val” Aalto is a complicated man. At twenty-one years old, he has been living and working at the New York Ballet since he was a child. Snarky, sexy, aware of his body as only a dancer can be, he is out and proud of all he has accomplished in his short life. However, it seems he has hit a ceiling on how far he can go at the ballet corp. Hardesty is the present lead male dancer, and he despises Val. The enmity between the two is well known; it doesn’t matter that there is enmity between Hardesty and the whole company—especially when he winds up dead. There is a serial killer stalking the dancers of NY, and the victims are not just within their own troupe. All leads start to point to Val for a variety of reasons, but at the same time, that same evidence could mean the killer is really after Val as his next victim.
Andrew Preston decided on a police career for a lot of reasons. The top reason being he needs to be in control of his life, and the thoughtful, methodical plodding of police work gives him that. Coming from a disjointed, chaotic childhood, Andrew NEEDS the step-by-step rigid rules of the law. He recognizes this in himself, but that doesn’t mean he can change it. Val represents so much chaos to him. Val is a dancer, a free spirit, a man with a mind of his own and not afraid to let you know it. Andrew is drawn to Val like a moth to a flame—scared to death of what havoc the man will wreak in his life but powerless to stop the pull.
This book is pure romantic suspense. The mystery and intrigue draw a story around the MCs, and help to push them together as a couple. The story is well paced, it’s action driven as opposed to character driven, but we still get well rounded, solidly written characters. The secondary characters are colorful and help support the storyline nicely. I positively loved Andrew’s partner Ilke, with her hot pink Doc Martens. The mystery is a good one, the killer not obvious right away, and the chemistry between the MCs is off the charts, along with the sex.
Val wasn’t huge, but solid muscle weighed a lot. Andrew carried him like he was a blushing ninety-pound bride. From Andrew’s softly smiling expression, he might as well have been. Val shook his head. “Who the hell are you?” Andrew winked. Actually winked. “Your dream come true.” Much as he hated to admit it, that might be one hundred percent correct.
I highly recommend this book for those who love their romance liberally sprinkled with dead bodies and the suspense that comes between a hot ginger cop and a power bottom of a ballet dancer with buns of steel.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
November 12, 2024
2 or 2.5 stars? This was okay. As a crime/suspense/mystery, .
As a romance, it was okay. Nothing special or extraordinary but nothing terrible either. .
Lastly, there was a distracting issue with italics, where often entire paragraphs would be italicized, not just inner thought sentences. Usually I don't point stuff like that out but this was a second release and a pretty obvious and easy to fix formatting error. And speaking of, I liked the other cover more, but again it's not something I would hold against the book.
As a romance, it was okay. Nothing special or extraordinary but nothing terrible either. .
Lastly, there was a distracting issue with italics, where often entire paragraphs would be italicized, not just inner thought sentences. Usually I don't point stuff like that out but this was a second release and a pretty obvious and easy to fix formatting error. And speaking of, I liked the other cover more, but again it's not something I would hold against the book.
March 13, 2021
Death Dancer is the story of Val Aalto, a ballet dancer, and Andrew Preston, a detective. It’s told through the two MCs pov, but also briefly at the beginning of the book, through the eyes of the murderer.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews