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The Naked Dancer
“I want you to paint my naked body.”
A strange proposal made early one morning sparks the artistic collaboration of a lifetime.
Morgan barely makes it through each day, weighed down by depression and loss. He’s a well-respected artist, but he hasn’t stepped into his studio in months. He’s become more acquainted with the feel of his bathrobe than his paintbrush.
Lu knows depression well. He still struggles with it three years after a disastrous performance ended his long-term relationship and his illustrious dance career. He and Morgan are battling different versions of the same demon.
Lu decides to vent his pain and his past through a naked dance, and he asks Morgan to paint his bare skin for the performance. New love can’t cure depression. But when two intensely artistic men unite to make something unprecedented, it sparks creativity and passion and hope—things neither man has felt in a while.
After months of driving through the oppressive night, the sun is finally peeking over the horizon for Lu and Morgan. And it all starts with a dance.
A strange proposal made early one morning sparks the artistic collaboration of a lifetime.
Morgan barely makes it through each day, weighed down by depression and loss. He’s a well-respected artist, but he hasn’t stepped into his studio in months. He’s become more acquainted with the feel of his bathrobe than his paintbrush.
Lu knows depression well. He still struggles with it three years after a disastrous performance ended his long-term relationship and his illustrious dance career. He and Morgan are battling different versions of the same demon.
Lu decides to vent his pain and his past through a naked dance, and he asks Morgan to paint his bare skin for the performance. New love can’t cure depression. But when two intensely artistic men unite to make something unprecedented, it sparks creativity and passion and hope—things neither man has felt in a while.
After months of driving through the oppressive night, the sun is finally peeking over the horizon for Lu and Morgan. And it all starts with a dance.
- GenresContemporary
ebook
Published December 19, 2023
1 person is currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 17, 2024
hauntingly beautiful. this was more on the healing process (from a toxic relationship, from depression, and more) than focusing on the romance. it was slow, it was sweet, it was soulful. the prose was beautiful, and described lucian and morgan's art performances simply but vividly.
honestly i was concerned cos the title is literally called 'the naked dancer' and maybe the smut would cloud the important stuff; but there was actually no smut at all, which is honestly the best fit for a book going for this sort of theme.
honestly i was concerned cos the title is literally called 'the naked dancer' and maybe the smut would cloud the important stuff; but there was actually no smut at all, which is honestly the best fit for a book going for this sort of theme.
March 10, 2024
Beautifully written, Naked Dancer is a story about healing from depression. It is a difficult topic to address but the author has handled it with care and sensitivity. The main characters--a dancer and an artist--are quirky and adorable, with their dorky banter, insecurities, and poignant backstories. They are flawed and believable, and their chemistry undeniable.
I rarely highlight passages in books, but in Naked Dancer, I did so, esp. passages about the creative artistry of the two men. The only downside to this story is that something unexpected happened towards the end but was not used to further the theme. Even so, I thoroughly enjoyed this zero-spice MM that can be safely recommended to everyone.
The author seems to be saying, We are all flawed and still we deserve to be loved. Until we forgive ourselves and one another, we cannot truly heal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I rarely highlight passages in books, but in Naked Dancer, I did so, esp. passages about the creative artistry of the two men. The only downside to this story is that something unexpected happened towards the end but was not used to further the theme. Even so, I thoroughly enjoyed this zero-spice MM that can be safely recommended to everyone.
The author seems to be saying, We are all flawed and still we deserve to be loved. Until we forgive ourselves and one another, we cannot truly heal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2024
4.3 ⭐
**I received a copy of this book for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, BookSirens and the author, for the opportunity.
What to expect:
📍Artistic MCs
📍Mental health rep
📍Past abusive relationship
📍Hurt-comfort
📍Awkward flirting
📍Bantering
📍Mutual fans
This is what I call a hidden gem ✨. The book was published a few months ago, but unfortunately didn’t gain much attention. It’s a shame really, because the book is definitely great, and it will probably resonate with a lot of people suffering depression or victims of abusive relationships. The approach it’s optimistic although very real and detailed, not missing the ugly parts (author was careful with these hard subjects in my opinion).
It’s a quick read that even with such an emotional theme can be considered light and refreshing. The banter and awkward flirting was the cherry on top 🤣. So many cringe-worthy moments of them trying to flirt!! It was very funny and they made a sweet couple.
This book is for my fellow hurt-comfort lovers 🫠. Both MCs were hurting for different reasons but somehow understood each others pain. They knew their lifes were a mess, but gave the other the impulse they needed to star doing something about it, even if they admitted love is not the solution and depending on others for your mental health is not a healthy decision (👏🏻 best advice ever!). There was a brief moment of misunderstanding that made sense and didn’t annoyed me, it was quickly fixed so there was no big angst with the couple.
**I received a copy of this book for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, BookSirens and the author, for the opportunity.
What to expect:
📍Artistic MCs
📍Mental health rep
📍Past abusive relationship
📍Hurt-comfort
📍Awkward flirting
📍Bantering
📍Mutual fans
This is what I call a hidden gem ✨. The book was published a few months ago, but unfortunately didn’t gain much attention. It’s a shame really, because the book is definitely great, and it will probably resonate with a lot of people suffering depression or victims of abusive relationships. The approach it’s optimistic although very real and detailed, not missing the ugly parts (author was careful with these hard subjects in my opinion).
It’s a quick read that even with such an emotional theme can be considered light and refreshing. The banter and awkward flirting was the cherry on top 🤣. So many cringe-worthy moments of them trying to flirt!! It was very funny and they made a sweet couple.
This book is for my fellow hurt-comfort lovers 🫠. Both MCs were hurting for different reasons but somehow understood each others pain. They knew their lifes were a mess, but gave the other the impulse they needed to star doing something about it, even if they admitted love is not the solution and depending on others for your mental health is not a healthy decision (👏🏻 best advice ever!). There was a brief moment of misunderstanding that made sense and didn’t annoyed me, it was quickly fixed so there was no big angst with the couple.
March 14, 2024
I stumbled upon "Naked Dancer" while browsing BookSirens for an ARC read, and from the moment I read the description, I was intrigued. Two creative souls seeking collaboration and healing from depression in an MM slow-burn romance? It sounded like the perfect blend, and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations.
What struck me most about this book is the author's incredible ability to infuse so much tension and chemistry between the characters without resorting to explicit descriptions. The banter is electric, the flirtation is palpable, and the emotional depth is simply breathtaking. Lu, in particular, captured my heart. Despite his flaws and struggles with depression, he felt so real and relatable that I couldn't help but fall in love with him and root for his happiness.
The tension between Lu and Morgan, the dancer and the artist, is expertly crafted, drawing me in from the very first line and keeping me engaged until the very end. Speaking of which, I found myself reluctant to finish the book because I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters who had become so dear to me.
The chemistry between Lu and Morgan is extraordinary, built on a foundation of mutual admiration and respect. It's a refreshing take on relationships that feels grounded and authentic.
One of the standout aspects of "Naked Dancer" is how it tackles the subject of depression with care and subtlety. It's a raw and honest portrayal that resonated deeply with me, and I believe it could be incredibly healing for anyone struggling with similar issues.
I must warn potential readers that "Naked Dancer" delves deep into the complexities of depression, which may be difficult for some. However, it's precisely this raw honesty that sets it apart from other books in the genre and makes it such a powerful read.
In conclusion, "Naked Dancer" is a masterpiece of MM romance that deftly navigates themes of love, healing, and mental health. It's a book that will stay with me long after I've turned the final page, and one that I eagerly anticipate revisiting time and time again.
What struck me most about this book is the author's incredible ability to infuse so much tension and chemistry between the characters without resorting to explicit descriptions. The banter is electric, the flirtation is palpable, and the emotional depth is simply breathtaking. Lu, in particular, captured my heart. Despite his flaws and struggles with depression, he felt so real and relatable that I couldn't help but fall in love with him and root for his happiness.
The tension between Lu and Morgan, the dancer and the artist, is expertly crafted, drawing me in from the very first line and keeping me engaged until the very end. Speaking of which, I found myself reluctant to finish the book because I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters who had become so dear to me.
The chemistry between Lu and Morgan is extraordinary, built on a foundation of mutual admiration and respect. It's a refreshing take on relationships that feels grounded and authentic.
One of the standout aspects of "Naked Dancer" is how it tackles the subject of depression with care and subtlety. It's a raw and honest portrayal that resonated deeply with me, and I believe it could be incredibly healing for anyone struggling with similar issues.
I must warn potential readers that "Naked Dancer" delves deep into the complexities of depression, which may be difficult for some. However, it's precisely this raw honesty that sets it apart from other books in the genre and makes it such a powerful read.
In conclusion, "Naked Dancer" is a masterpiece of MM romance that deftly navigates themes of love, healing, and mental health. It's a book that will stay with me long after I've turned the final page, and one that I eagerly anticipate revisiting time and time again.
April 16, 2024
Tags excellent writing, emotional, vibrant, uplifting, raw, witty, riveting, refreshing, page-turner, no cliffhanger
An emotional and heartfelt story of the healing power of love
“I saw your light when I needed light the most. You gave me something to drive toward.”
This novel is an excellent work of literature defined by beautiful, immersive, poetic, profound, and, at the same time, witty writing. It is an emotional and heartfelt dive into a world of depression and grief but strangely uplifting and hopeful. I read the whole book in one go because it was impossible to put it down. I loved the riveting, dynamic, and compelling story about two artists, both at the bottom of their lives and careers, both battling the dark depths of depression. We follow their path of slowly reconstructing their life and existence through knowing each other and falling in love.
Their battle and struggle through fears and hurt of depression by holding and supporting each other is told in such a vivid and vibrant way it is utterly moving and relatable for the reader. The author balances out the darkness and despair with witty banter and insight into the strength and determination given by love. Thus transforming a dark story into an uplifting and heartwarming narrative.
Reading this story left me emotionally deeply touched yet hopeful and fulfilled simultaneously.
What to expect: excellent, eloquent, and profound writing; deep and resonant emotions intersected by witty dialogs and banter; utterly compelling and dynamic narrative; charming yet shattering; you will cry and laugh, and more importantly, you will love it.
What not to expect: a lot of action, suspense, straightforward plot, easy-to-read, and easy-to-forget storyline.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book. This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts.
An emotional and heartfelt story of the healing power of love
“I saw your light when I needed light the most. You gave me something to drive toward.”
This novel is an excellent work of literature defined by beautiful, immersive, poetic, profound, and, at the same time, witty writing. It is an emotional and heartfelt dive into a world of depression and grief but strangely uplifting and hopeful. I read the whole book in one go because it was impossible to put it down. I loved the riveting, dynamic, and compelling story about two artists, both at the bottom of their lives and careers, both battling the dark depths of depression. We follow their path of slowly reconstructing their life and existence through knowing each other and falling in love.
Their battle and struggle through fears and hurt of depression by holding and supporting each other is told in such a vivid and vibrant way it is utterly moving and relatable for the reader. The author balances out the darkness and despair with witty banter and insight into the strength and determination given by love. Thus transforming a dark story into an uplifting and heartwarming narrative.
Reading this story left me emotionally deeply touched yet hopeful and fulfilled simultaneously.
What to expect: excellent, eloquent, and profound writing; deep and resonant emotions intersected by witty dialogs and banter; utterly compelling and dynamic narrative; charming yet shattering; you will cry and laugh, and more importantly, you will love it.
What not to expect: a lot of action, suspense, straightforward plot, easy-to-read, and easy-to-forget storyline.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book. This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts.
February 13, 2024
HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL WITH SO MUCH SOUL!
A hauntingly beautiful story that will touch your heart and soul by how these two broken characters navigated depression and addiction together with their art!
“Dark and light.”
“It’s what all of this represents. Tragedy and survival. Darkness, depression, pain, and bursts of light as you pull yourself out of it.”
“I want you to paint my naked body.”
A grieving guilt ridden artist- Morgan Flowers who has depression meets his idol dancer Lucian Bellerose who disappeared after a brutal dancing accident three years ago, on his doorstep, and this is where their journey to finding light, laughter and companionship with a strong emotional connection begins…
I loved their banter and camaraderie not to mention their constant flirting and sexual innuendos with scorching intensity was so hot!
I hated what Morgan did when the truth was revealed that his idol has feet of clay but he did endear himself…
I loved the grand finale dance of Lu by how he showcased his pain and darkness and the way that Morgan depicted him in all the colours- it was so beautiful and haunting!
A slow burn with so much synergy , soul and sweet emotion by this amazing new to me author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A hauntingly beautiful story that will touch your heart and soul by how these two broken characters navigated depression and addiction together with their art!
“Dark and light.”
“It’s what all of this represents. Tragedy and survival. Darkness, depression, pain, and bursts of light as you pull yourself out of it.”
“I want you to paint my naked body.”
A grieving guilt ridden artist- Morgan Flowers who has depression meets his idol dancer Lucian Bellerose who disappeared after a brutal dancing accident three years ago, on his doorstep, and this is where their journey to finding light, laughter and companionship with a strong emotional connection begins…
I loved their banter and camaraderie not to mention their constant flirting and sexual innuendos with scorching intensity was so hot!
I hated what Morgan did when the truth was revealed that his idol has feet of clay but he did endear himself…
I loved the grand finale dance of Lu by how he showcased his pain and darkness and the way that Morgan depicted him in all the colours- it was so beautiful and haunting!
A slow burn with so much synergy , soul and sweet emotion by this amazing new to me author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2024
This book is phenomenal. Unlike some of this genre every moment exhibits decorum beautifully. The story has a rawness about it. It has a warmth that radiates outward. From the very beginning it pulls you in, it touches you in a way that it continues with you. The two main characters cause this story to leap off the pages. Will plays very well into it, as well. The storyline was one that is inspiring and yet poignant, too. It was evocative to the point of bringing an emotional stirring. I was so invested in the story that the HeA made me a tiny bit sad because it was over but I absolutely loved that Paul found his place with them. This is an amazing book, an amazing reading and an amazing creation by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 20, 2024
I found this book so deep - the depth depends on the depression. Some moments or days deeper than others, but Morgan and Lu came together because they both had experience of this disease and knew what could help.Their style of creativity played off against each other and I could hear the sounds and see the varying stages of light and darkness as the story unfolded. How they could evolve out of their history into a brighter future.There was no fun, laughter and frivolity except for the few that tickles raised. This is not a book to lift you out of the doldrums or light reading full of romance with steamy scenes, yet this author grabbed my attention from the start with dry humour and calmness. A book I can read again and I'm sure I will see and feel more that I missed.
I received a copy through BookSirens and it is my pleasure to leave my honest and voluntary review.
I received a copy through BookSirens and it is my pleasure to leave my honest and voluntary review.
February 6, 2024
A really unique read. Lu and Morgan use their art to try and help heal themselves. I especially loved their discussions of painting and dancing and how it is what initially brings them together. Lu is coming off an abusive relationship and a terrible accident, and Morgan’s grief and guilt over his father’s death is crushing him. Lu is planning a performance to tell his story the best way he knows how, through dance. He wants artist Morgan to help, by painting his body for the performance. These two characters are crazy endearing, it very easy to want good things for them. This is a new author for me and I enjoyed the writing style. There’s a late twist I didn’t love and the story did drag a bit for me, but I enjoyed the characters and the overall story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 28, 2023
A nice and intimate story, one to curl up and get lost in. A slow burn that truly warms the heart, showing the light and dark of humanity. Allowing words and shared grief to become as intimate as a lovers touch. I welcome the refresh of real human interaction, imperfect , raw, clumsy but breathtaking. Depression, grief, past in the story really emphasizes the baggage we all bring to the table with each new person we meet. This is no fairy tale , this is 2 real people meeting with the hand life has felt them and seeing where life takes them.
I loved it, even with it being a slow burn I always felt engaged and wanting more. I fell in love with all the characters and became so utterly invested in their happiness.
I loved it, even with it being a slow burn I always felt engaged and wanting more. I fell in love with all the characters and became so utterly invested in their happiness.
February 4, 2024
Mild Spoilers!
This book started out beautifully, the characters are interesting and the emotions and struggles with depression are realistic and handled with care, however I feel like this book has a bit of a pacing problem, the actual "plot" of the book doesn't start till around 60% and it takes turn that is really out of left field and it goes very quickly. I think if the book was a little bit longer the end wouldn't have felt so rushed.
That being said, I did still enjoy the book and it was a enjoyable read. It's beautifully written.
Angst 3/5
Spice 🌶️
HEA.
I received a ARC of this book for my honest review
This book started out beautifully, the characters are interesting and the emotions and struggles with depression are realistic and handled with care, however I feel like this book has a bit of a pacing problem, the actual "plot" of the book doesn't start till around 60% and it takes turn that is really out of left field and it goes very quickly. I think if the book was a little bit longer the end wouldn't have felt so rushed.
That being said, I did still enjoy the book and it was a enjoyable read. It's beautifully written.
Angst 3/5
Spice 🌶️
HEA.
I received a ARC of this book for my honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2024
Loved the story and characters. Would have liked more of Lu's POV though. We were introduced to the characters as they met each other. There is never a chance to make a second first impression. As a celebrity, there is no avoiding fans developing an opinion of someone in the public eye. How many NEW relationships would survive having the rose-colored glasses yanked off? CAVEAT - Most of my caveats are for poor editing. This is a big THANK YOU for excellent editing. The author requested comments, so the few things I noted are being sent to the author. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
June 13, 2024
Whoa! This was an intense book! I really enjoyed the realness of it… but check out the trigger warnings. Expect a fast falling in love, consistent burn. Sexy and intimate. The focus on healing and calling abuse and trauma out was encouraging and refreshing. Lu and Morgan were wonderful characters, delightfully real, messy, complicated artists but also men who had hurt and loved deeply. They will make you laugh, grieve, and long for them to figure it out and flourish
Go and read this beautiful book!
I received this advanced readers copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
Go and read this beautiful book!
I received this advanced readers copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
March 21, 2024
I received a copy of this ebook for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.
This book had me cackling, kicking my feet, and a lump in my throat. This had some of the best banter I have ever read that is exactly my sense of humor. The chemistry between the characters was also incredible. I loved the depth and mental health representation as well. Just so much to love about this book!
My only criticism is that I wish the book as a little longer and we got more time for relationship development.
This book had me cackling, kicking my feet, and a lump in my throat. This had some of the best banter I have ever read that is exactly my sense of humor. The chemistry between the characters was also incredible. I loved the depth and mental health representation as well. Just so much to love about this book!
My only criticism is that I wish the book as a little longer and we got more time for relationship development.
February 6, 2024
A very haunting story with enough little pieces of hope and beauty amid the depression of both MCs to keep it interesting. The mental health struggles were sympathetically written. The effects of paparazzi and people intrusively demanding more than anyone should have to make public were shown well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
January 19, 2024
I loved reading this book because of the witty dialogue and the story.
A+++++
A+++++
April 13, 2024
The Naked Dancer was my first, very unique read by Emme C. Taylor. I actually stumbled in this book attracted by it's cover and due to my huge weakness toward stories involving dancers it immediately got me 😂
There is a lot of talking in this book, honest, in depth talking and at first I was WOW, this is a lot...but when is the plot finally start to move forwards? The talking develops around a lot of serious issues, like loss of a parent, abuse, depression and life-threatening accidents, so be aware of the TW before reading this book.
From the first page onward, we are thrown into the amazing story of a dancer meeting with a painter, both struggling a lot with different, huge life problems. Step by step we discover what make both artists what they are, why they had to meet and why they need each other to heal.
Fate wants they both admired the respective arts way before they actually met for a very unique project. Therefore, the talking flows easily, and, honestly, it gets quite intense at some moments, I had to stop more than once to give myself time to breathe and digest what I just read. There is sincerity in their talks, there is resolution about getting better and what I absolutely love is that there is no judgement at all about mental health issues, no matcho playing or diminishing of feelings. Just respect, and, obviously, some insta-love attraction, I definitely adored.
Theri path to the final dance is everything but easy, my feels were completely, utterly destroyed by the beauty of this book and the vivid, descriptive style Emme C. Taylor has. The author really brought everyhing to life and I higly recomend this book if you life real life portrays full of suffering and pain to finally find peace and a way to carry on living.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
There is a lot of talking in this book, honest, in depth talking and at first I was WOW, this is a lot...but when is the plot finally start to move forwards? The talking develops around a lot of serious issues, like loss of a parent, abuse, depression and life-threatening accidents, so be aware of the TW before reading this book.
From the first page onward, we are thrown into the amazing story of a dancer meeting with a painter, both struggling a lot with different, huge life problems. Step by step we discover what make both artists what they are, why they had to meet and why they need each other to heal.
Fate wants they both admired the respective arts way before they actually met for a very unique project. Therefore, the talking flows easily, and, honestly, it gets quite intense at some moments, I had to stop more than once to give myself time to breathe and digest what I just read. There is sincerity in their talks, there is resolution about getting better and what I absolutely love is that there is no judgement at all about mental health issues, no matcho playing or diminishing of feelings. Just respect, and, obviously, some insta-love attraction, I definitely adored.
Theri path to the final dance is everything but easy, my feels were completely, utterly destroyed by the beauty of this book and the vivid, descriptive style Emme C. Taylor has. The author really brought everyhing to life and I higly recomend this book if you life real life portrays full of suffering and pain to finally find peace and a way to carry on living.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews