AustLit

'A new teacher, a new style of dance and a whole lot of personal drama off the dance floor sees Amelia and Valentina risk spinning out of control.

'Amelia loves ballet more than anything, but the sudden arrival of an intense new teacher shifts the Academy focus from classical to contemporary dance. Amelia is out of her depth with the edgy choreography and unsettled by its world-ending theme, especially when a shock diagnosis really might bring her life crashing down. Valentina is completely at home with the new style but has troubles off the dance floor. As she desperately strives to secure a scholarship and save her dance career, money problems and an unexpected romance have her in a complete spin. With so much at breaking point, the girls will need to decide what really matters before everything falls apart.' (Publication summary)

'In the competitive world of ballet you always need to be on pointe.

'If I wanted the lead role, Valentina had to go.

'A contemporary Ballet Shoes set in an elite dance academy, this compelling coming-of-age novel is all about overcoming pressure, standing up for yourself and the joy of ballet! The perfect gift for all young dancers.

'Amelia is a ballerina on the rise - she's talented, dedicated and set to star in the lead role of the annual production. But when Valentina arrives from Italy and joins the ballet academy, the competition gets fierce.

'Can Amelia outshine Valentina and keep her place in the spotlight?' (Publication summary)