PRAISE

“Ashe’s persuasive behind-the-scenes ballet sections lend heft and authenticity to what could otherwise be mere window dressing, and she transitions her narrative from charming slice of historical fiction to pulse-pounding suspense at an expert pace. It’s a fiercely memorable debut from a writer to watch.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Historical-novel fans as well as those who enjoy a bit of gothic intrigue will appreciate this story.”—Booklist

“Based on the real ballet scene in prewar London, this immersive tale will be a delight for historical-fiction fans who like a touch of suspense.”—Library Journal

“Ashe trained with the Royal Ballet School, and she is fascinating on the detail of the girls’ lives; on the pain and the bloodied feet that underpin the perfection of the dance, on, as Samuel says, ‘this mad life you all live, always on the edge of pain and exhaustion.’ A wonderful, eye-opening debut.”—London Times

“Dances with historical details, with unease and atmosphere. You can feel the mist of the London canals, hear the ballet shoes touching the stage.”—Abigail Dean, New York Times bestselling author of Girl A

“Haunting and richly evocative, The Dance of the Dolls takes the reader on a spellbinding journey through the 1930s London ballet scene, in which the beauty and elegance of the participants is the flip side of a destructive drive for perfection and darkly murderous obsessions. Lucy Ashe’s debut is absolutely en pointe.”—Lexie Elliott, author of The French Girl

“A clever thriller . . . the characters are compelling. Take a bow, Ms. Ashe.”—Historical Novel Review

“[An] unsettling tale. . . . As the story follows the rehearsals for the ballet Coppélia, we receive a quick-fire education on how the ballet works and why it inspires obsession. . . . An original thriller with a crafty plot.”—Daily Mail

“This original and exquisitely written novel is a highly accomplished debut.”—Plays to See

“The ballet world sets the stage for this terrifying psychological thriller that takes place in pre-war London.”—Entertainment Weekly

“[T]his novel promises a chilling and captivating story.”—NBC Champaign, IL (WCIA) -