Watch Her Fall by Erin Kelly

In my opinion...

I was inspired to read this book after hearing Erin Kelly talking passionately about it on Woman’s Hour- and was fortunate enough to be sent a copy by the publisher for review. As the author said, there are very few adult novels about the world of ballet and this story is a gripping exploration of a closed world with people on the ‘edge of sanity’ – setting the scene perfectly for a psychological thriller.

There are so many stories and back stories within this novel, it can feel confusing at times, but that gives almost the sensation of dizziness from too many pirouettes- what is the truth? Who is right/wrong? Black swan/white swan? Good/evil? At times it is hard to tell. The reader is dragged in and complicit in the intrigues.

A fascinating and thought provoking book which challenges the psychological thriller genre in a unique and authentic feeling way.

Thank you Hodder & Stoughton for my review copy.

Want to know more?

Swan Lake is divided into the black acts and the white acts. The Prince is on stage for most of the ballet, but it's the swans audiences flock to see. In early productions, Odette and Odile were performed by two different dancers. These days, it is usual for the same dancer to play both roles. Because of the faultless ballet technique required to master the steps, and the emotional range needed to perform both the virginal Odette and the dark, seductive Odile, this challenging dual role is one of the most coveted in all ballet. Dancers would kill for the part.

Ava Kirilova has reached the very top of her profession. After years and years of hard graft, pain and sacrifice as part of the London Russian Ballet Company, allowing nothing else to distract her, she is finally the poster girl for Swan Lake. Even Mr K - her father, and the intense, terrifying director of the company - can find no fault. Ava has pushed herself ahead of countless other talented, hardworking girls, and they are all watching her now.

My rating...

A twisted & challenging 4 glasses, which I need so that I can continue mulling the story over!