Murder in First Position: An On Pointe Mystery: 1 Paperback – Import, 24 November 2020

Leah Siderova’s talent was praised by many in the community putting her at the pinnacle of an international dancing career, until a dancer’s worst nightmare … knee surgery. But, ballet is her life, so she has no plans for early retirement. Instead, she’s vying for a comeback and setting to call in a few favors, but sadly, she finds herself navigating the heartache of being overlooked, replaced, and put into an “understudy” role. She was not featured in the article Times critic Greyson Averin had promised or selected as the lead in Bryan Leister’s new production commissioned by the American Ballet Company; both honors went to Arianna Bonneville, a talented rising star. It’s well known the world of ballet is filled with cutthroat competition, “zilla” personalities, and backstabbing, so when Leah finds Arianna literally stabbed in the back and her last words implicate Leah, professing her innocence to the police is met with skepticism. Leah had witnessed, as well as received, Arianna’s physical and verbal cruelty, but despite the gossip Leah was jealous, a physical altercation seen by many, and testimony and real forensic evidence, the difference of opinion among the detectives is not enough; Leah will not be railroaded.Take a Bow! Lori Robbins had me immediately hooked with the murder of Leah’s dancing nemesis revealed in the first chapter; I couldn’t put it down! The investigation took center stage with previous incidents revisited along with raising connections to attacks in Paris where Leah had also been in attendance. There’re few confidants in the American Ballet Company to support Leah’s claim of innocence since one less dancer to compete with is a plus in everyone’s mind, but her dancing partner Daniel, a young dancer Olivia resigned to the corps de ballet, and dancing coach Madame Maksimova offer some insights. The motives are varied and cause Leah quite a dilemma: another diva dancer , usurpers within the ballet troupe, hidden agendas, and rumors of plenty of affairs. Of course, the “Don’t get involved” scheme means everyone is uncooperative worried their own careers could be jeopardized. Add a shadowy stalker, alibis hard to crack, a trio of helpful ladies, and another attack ramps up the intensity exploding with a nail-biting chase. I was fascinated by the inner workings of the ballet company which brought to mind the movie The Turning Point. Cheers!

This is a well executed murder mystery set amongst the tutus and pointe shoes and drama drama drama! I LOVED it! 😍I loved the dance quotes throughout the book, the French accents of certain characters (written perfectly), and of course the main character, Leah. She is perfectly imperfect, and the way she handles being a suspected murderer is brilliant.I highly recommend this to all who love a murder mystery and also have an interest in professional ballet. If you watched the Netflix series "Tiny Pretty Things", you need to give this a read.I've already lined up book 2 and can't wait to find out what happens next!

Lori Robbins offers us an intimate, intense and authentic glimpse into the backstage world of the Ballet in Murder in First Position, the first in her On Pointe mystery series. Leah Siderova, a principal dancer in NYC, lives to dance. There is no line between the woman and the ballerina - until Leah is blamed for the death of a rival ballerina. Suspected by detectives, shunned by fellow dancers and friends, and no longer welcome to dance, Leah is drawn into a suspenseful search for the real killer. Told with insight, emotion and humor, through Leah’s eyes, a behind-the-spotlights world of heartbreak, endurance, jealousy and magic is illuminated. The mystery is a page-turner, yes, but for me, Dance is the main character here. And what we do for love. Brava!

Magnificent MysteryRobbins pens a wonderful mystery story in Murder in First Position. I have read word from this author before, and I really enjoyed it, and this was no different. The mystery surrounds ballerina Leah, who's rival was killed, and of course, everyone has eyes on her. I am vaguely knowledgeable about the strictness of discipline of professional dancers, but in this story, I think that lends to helping Leah try to clear her name while the police are right there, behind her. If you love a great suspenseful and mysterious story, this book should be next on your list. A very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. Robbins is a magnificent storyteller and adds that layer of suspense and mystery, as well as other sub plotlines. It's a perfect stage for murder, and this book has it. Magnificent story, kept this reader turning the pages. A definite attention grabber. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly and the characterizations are engrossing. Love this story. The author's technique of intense characters and great plotlines is a gift. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.

Lori Robbins first book in her On Pointe mystery series, Murder in First Position, takes on the world of professional ballet. Her protagonist is wrongly accused of murdering another member of the dance company and spends the novel trying to prove her innocence. Leah Siderova is clearly not an investigator and gets caught up in her emotions (as would anyone!) when confronted with the possibility of a life behind bars. This leads to some erratic behavior and less-than-logical thinking. Luckily, she has good friends in the form of her loyal sister, a Russian dance teacher, and a best friend who flies home from South America to help. Of course, life is enhanced (complicated) by two interesting looking men. Most charming are three old ladies on the Chinatown-Atlantic City gambling bus who have her back in a moment of weakness. I am somewhat amazed that the protagonist makes it through the novel on the strength of black coffee, two black and white cookies, and one breakfast. Definitely enjoyable—and perfect for a summer read at the beach! Bring snacks.