Item: Nocturne
Rating: 3.00
Author: quirkycat

by Alyssa Wees

In this haunting, evocative fantasy set in 1930s Chicago, a talented ballerina finds herself torn between her dreams and her desires when she’s pursued by a secretive patron who may be more than he seems.

“An utterly unique, lyrical play on the Persephone and Hades myth for fans of Neil Gaiman or Madeline Miller.”—Booklist (starred review)

Growing up in Chicago’s Little Sicily in the years following the Great War, Grace Dragotta has always wanted to be a ballerina, ever since she first peered through the windows of the Near North Ballet company. So when Grace is orphaned, she chooses the ballet as her home, imagining herself forever ensconced in a transcendent world of light and beauty so different from her poor, immigrant upbringing.

Years later, with the Great Depression in full swing, Grace has become the company’s new prima ballerina—though achieving her long-held dream is not the triumph she once envisioned. Time and familiarity have tarnished that shining vision, and her new position means the loss of her best friend in the world. Then she attracts the attention of the enigmatic Master La Rosa as her personal patron and realizes the world is not as small or constricted as she had come to fear.

Who is her mysterious patron, and what does he want from her? As Grace begins to unlock the Master’s secrets, she discovers that there is beauty in darkness as well as light, finds that true friendship cannot be broken by time or distance, and realizes there may be another way entirely to achieve the transcendence she has always sought.

Book Summary:

Grace Dragotta has always wanted to be a ballerina. That isn't all that uncommon of a dream, all things considered. While most of us move on to different dreams, Grace chased the one she had, which took her straight to the Near North Ballet Company.

When the Great Depression hits, Grace is the prima ballerina for the company, finally achieving one of her biggest goals. Only things aren't as she imagined, and an interesting new character is in her life. What do they want? Is she safe?

My Review:

I'm not ashamed to admit that Nocturne's stunning cover initially caught my eye. However, Grace's story and the promise within were enough to hold my attention. All things considered, I would say that this is a solid read – full of fantasy elements and a few surprise twists.

It's set in the 1930s, which is one heck of a foundation for this tale. It has solid vibes and aesthetics, which I know certain readers will adore. Conversely, I'm not sure all readers will enjoy the heavily descriptive nature of Nocturne. So do keep that in mind before diving in.

If you're looking for a lyrical read merged with historical fiction and fantasy, you've got to give Nocturne. It'll be right up your alley.

Highlights:
Historical Fiction
Ballet
Fantasy Elements

Thanks to Del Rey Books and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Nocturne

by Alyssa Wees

Reviewed by Quirky Cat on Feb 16, 2023

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