Review: I <3 Raphael and Annalise
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 11 11, 2013
I received an ARC form the author in exchange for an honest review.This book was exactly what I was looking for- a sweet and sexy read that showcases new love and fighting for what you want (need) when others doubt you.  Melody has a way of writing a strong but tender-hearted heroine and a sexy hero that you want to know more about. In her new series she does the same-giving us Annalise- a ballet tender that has been pushed to succeed and sheltered from life and Raphael- an intense Italian dancer that is living life and giving his all to his craft.Annalise is in Rome with ABT for her "last chance" at winning a lead role.  Her mother has molded her into the dancer she is- giving her opportunities that other dancers would only dream of.  But Mom pushes- and Annalise is starting to crack.  She thinks about what will happen if she can't get the top spot.  What will her life mean?  And will all of the sacrifices she has made be worth it?As all of these questions swirl in her mind she sees Raphael.  His dancing and spirit draw her to him.  She is completely captivated.  And makes a decision to get to know him that will likely blow up in her face.  Soon they are inseparable- the attraction so sweet and sexy.  The descriptions of the dancing they do- whew! The intensity of their new feelings scares them both- and after they audition and take their relationship down a more serious street Annalise comes face to face with her biggest fear.  She is sure that she made the wrong choice and runs.  Back to what she knows.  Back to where she is safe. Dance.She loses herself in the show.  Giving all of her time and effort.  But she also has lost her heart.  And while technically stunning there is no feeling- no passion.  The reader is there with her- in despair, missing Raphael and doubting everything she knows.The secondary characters are also very well written. Annalise's mom is so cold.  She breaks Annalise's heart and brings into clear view what Annalise knows she must avoid- living her mother's life.  Lucia is just so nasty and petty.  Another reminder of what is waiting for Annalise if she continues down the path she is on.  Her sassy friends are just that - scared for her, cheerleaders and thrilled at her happiness.Raphael- can we just say yum??  His love and care for Annalise is beautiful.  He shows her intensity and passion- bringing out a reminder of why she dances and how it is important, but maybe not the most important thing in  her life.  And he fights for her.  So romantic!  We find out and can better understand why he made the choices he did.Together they are able to nurture their passion for each other and their craft.  The reader will cheer at their HEA, and anxiously await the next in the series!