Take the Lead - (Dance Off Novel) by Alexis Daria (Paperback)

About the Book

When a star dancer and a reluctant celebrity are teamed up on a reality dancing competition, their mutual dislike soon turns into a secret romance that could threaten everything they've worked for.

Book Synopsis

From Alexis Daria, author of the critically acclaimed, international bestseller You Had Me at Hola, comes a fun, sexy romance set against a reality dance show.

Gina Morales wants to make it big. In her four seasons on The Dance Off, she's never even made it to the finals. But her latest partner, the sexy star of an Alaskan wilderness show, could be her chance. Who knew the strong, silent, survivalist-type had moves like that? She thinks Stone Nielson is her ticket to win it all--until her producer makes it clear they're being set up for a showmance.

Joining a celebrity dance competition is the last thing Stone wants. However, he'll endure anything to help his family, even as he fears revealing their secrets. While the fast pace of Los Angeles makes him long for the peace and privacy of home, he can't hide his growing attraction for his dance partner. Neither wants to fake a romance for the cameras, but the explosive chemistry that flares between them is undeniable.

As Stone and Gina heat up the dance floor, the tabloids catch on to their developing romance. With the spotlight threatening to ruin everything, will they choose fame and fortune, or let love take the lead?

Review Quotes

"Daria creates a rich, multilayered romance for Stone and Gina. They are different in every way, which requires honest communication and true sacrifice in order to achieve a happily-ever-after. The description of their dancing is joyful, sexy, and mimics the trust and intimacy they develop as partners and lovers. This perfect romance will dance its way into the reader's heart." - Kirkus, Starred Review

"Bestseller Daria (A Lot Like Adiós) brings heat to the dance floor in this delightful rom-com about reality TV stars who find love during a celebrity dance competition...The structure of the competition keeps the pages flying, and Daria does a fantastic job making the thrilling dance routines jump and twirl off the page. Add in the protagonists' opposite personalities and fiery attraction, and this whirlwind romance scores a 10 out of 10. " --Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"As the chemistry sizzles between them against the fun background of the dance show, Daria brings humor and colorful detail to each scene." - Booklist

A 2018 RITA(R) winner for Best First Book!

"A sparkling debut." --Entertainment Weekly

"Vibrantly written." --The Washington Post

"As irresistible and sexy as a Bad Bunny song." --Adriana Herrera, USA Today bestselling author

"Filled with a collection of intriguing characters, this is a light, vibrantly written romance from an author who clearly adores the world she's developed -- and the characters she's matched." -Sarah MacLean, New York Times bestselling author

"Believable, emotional, and hot--everything you want from a story about dance partners!" -Jasmine Guillory, New York Times bestselling author

"Stone and Gina's chemistry leaps off the pages in a story filled with grit, humor, passion, and heart. A must-read!" -Mia Sosa, USA Today bestselling author of The Worst Best Man

"Do not miss Take the Lead." --USA Today bestselling author Maya Rodale

"Take the Lead is everything I look for in a romance--lovable and layered characters, sizzling chemistry, and a charming and authentic voice." -- Sonali Dev, author of A Bollywood Affair

"A ballroom dance competition is a beehive of activity and emotion...as locations change the passion of the competition flares higher. Gina and Stone are a lovable couple who make it easy to root for them." -- RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

"It was an emotional rollercoaster...[TAKE THE LEAD] is Alexis Daria's debut novel and boy...I can't wait for more from her. The feelings just jump off the page; the dance scenes are vivid." -- Bookriot

"[Alexis Daria]'s one to watch." -- POPSUGAR

"A story I could not put down." -- Books 2 Blog

"This book was addictive. I can't wait to read more from this author." -- Booklovers Hangout

"[Gina and Stone] had so much personality, chemistry, and some serious dance moves. Their emotional connection had me on a roller coaster of emotion and Alexis Daria does a fantastic job conveying it all through their dancing." -- Happily Ever After Book Nerd

"A sizzling and fun romp through the world of dance competition reality shows." -- Meags.net

"A delectably charming book." -- The Librarian's Corner

"Fun and sexy with the right balance of fight and conflict, Take the Lead is a strong, satisfying series opener and debut from Alexis Daria," -- Vanilla & Spice Books

"Take the Lead by Alexis Daria is perfect. PER.FECT...a 5 star romance." -- TBQ's Book Palace

"One of the best romances of the year." -- Badnecklace Unclasped

About the Author

ALEXIS DARIA writes stories about successful Latinx characters and their (occasionally messy) familias. Her debut Take the Lead won the 2018 RITA(R) Award for "Best First Book" and her book You Had Me at Hola is a national bestseller, Target Diverse Book Club Pick, and New York Times Editor's Choice Pick. Alexis is a lifelong New Yorker who loves Broadway musicals and pizza.