At twenty-seven, Shannon Murphy has just discovered that she has two sisters she never knew. Now, through Shannon’s loving persistence, the three of them are moving in together above her dance studio in Bridgeport. Shannon is excited to make a home with her sisters and to grow her budding business. Then she meets her newest client—he has all the right muscles, a perfect smile, and a lot of … attitude. Will Shannon be able to keep things professional with this charming stranger?
Dylan Lange has a lot on his mind. He’s just been assigned a new partner at his job with the Bridgeport Police, and while he’s busy striving to protect and serve his town, he’s also trying to keep his baby sister out of harm’s way while she heals from her own trauma. And on top of everything else, he’s gone and lost a bet with his buddies, forcing him to take dance lessons. But when he walks into the dance studio to meet his instructor, a young and beautiful brunette with a sweet southern drawl is the last person he expected to find.
Get ready to fall in love again as Shelley Shepard Gray takes us back to Bridgeport, Ohio, where nobody gets left behind and a powerful community helps ordinary men and women to find extraordinary strength inside themselves.
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This was such a wonderful book !!! I could not and did not want to stop reading this book!!
So very good!!!!
Shelley Sheppard Gray is such a great writer, with this book I felt like I could see Shannon dancing the details she gave and the songs she chose put me right in the room with her. You could also feel the delight, the pain, of each character so well that I did not want to put this book down, I was hooked from the first page until the last. I can not wait until the second one comes out.
Shelley has done it again. Another great read. I’m more of an amish, western book person, but I was glued to this book. I love the characters. The story was so realistic. Thank you for good clean entertainment.
Shall We Dance? By Shelley Shepard Gray is the first tale in The Dance with Me Series. It is an extension of The Bridgeport Social Club Series, but Shall We Dance? can be read on its own. I found the story easy to read thanks to Shelley Shepard Gray’s writing. The story moved along at a swift pace and I quickly finished it. I love the setting of Bridgeport, Ohio. It seems that a friendly town especially with the addition of Shannon Murphy and her two sisters, Kimber and Traci. Shannon took a DNA test and was shocked to find she had two sisters. After the three of them connected, Kimber and Traci agreed to move to Bridgeport with Shannon who is opening Dance with Me. The three sisters are sharing the loft apartment above the studio. Shannon opens her dance studio and Dylan Lange is her first private client. It turns out that he lost the fantasy football league pool which forced him to perform a penance (Shannon really did not appreciate that word). Dylan must take five dancing lessons. I believe his friends expected the teacher to be an older woman with white hair and thick lensed glasses. When I began reading Shall We Dance?, I felt like I was dumped into the middle of an existing book. I kept wondering if there was a prequel. I liked the main characters (Shannon, Kimber, Traci, Dylan and Jennifer) who are friendly and relatable. I wish the author had taken more time to establish the characters. As this is only the first book, I am sure we will get more details on Traci and Kimber in their books (I am curious to Kimber’s last name). While we do learn about Shannon, I felt details about Dylan were missing. The romance between Dylan and Shannon started off nicely, but then it was shoved aside when a threatening note was left inside Jennifer Lange’s (Dylan’s sister) car. Jennifer went through a horrific incident about two years ago and it devastated her as well as her family. She is finally venturing out into the world by visiting a local bookstore, Backdoor Books which has a fabulous cookbook section. I loved the descriptions of the cookbook area of Backdoor Books (reminds you of a 1950s kitchen). I felt for Jennifer and I like how she handled the situation. Jennifer’s story, in my opinion, should have been a novella on its own. I felt the dancing and romance aspects of the story were neglected. The parts of the romance that I wish were featured were left out (spoilers). I did appreciate the epilogue that nicely wrapped up Shall We Dance? I enjoyed the quotes on dancing before each chapter. There is humor sprinkled throughout especially regarding the sisters’ inability to cook. There is also a puppy named Harvard who provides amusing and tender scenes. It was nice to see the sisters connecting and establishing bonds. They were getting to know each other after a lifetime apart. I thought it was sweet and touching. Shall We Dance? is an emotive story with revealed relations, a serious stalker, whirling waltzes, bibliophile bliss, racy rumbas, and scrumptious culinary creations.
Shall We Dance? is the first book of a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray and this is a contemporary series instead of the Amish books that she often writes. Twenty-seven year old Shannon Murphy has convinced her two sisters to come to Bridgeport, Ohio, to live with her in her dance studio. Sounds normal, right? Well, not quite because Shannon has just discovered that she even has sisters so there is sure to be a lot of adjustment for all three of them!
This is a heartwarming story that follows Shannon, Traci, and Kimber as they explore their new relationship and there are also some feelings to explore between Shannon and a dance student. Police officer Dylan Lange doesn’t seem the type to want dance lessons but he has no choice…he lost a dare and he has to pay up! Dylan is a good guy who is trying to help and support his troubled sister Jennifer but he also feels an intense attraction when he is with Shannon.
I always enjoy a story that has familiar names and places and Gray includes many references to Ohio and Kentucky in her plotline. Readers who live in these states will recognize many of the sites and places that she mentions.
As I read this story, I could imagine how all of these characters will influence the future books of the Dance With Me series and I look forward to learning more about them. Will Shannon and Dylan stop at six dance lessons or will they continue to dance with each other? Do Traci and Kimber adapt to life in small-town Bridgeport, Ohio? Can Jennifer overcome her past and find a happy future?
If you enjoy contemporary fiction with a small-town setting, intriguing characters, and romance, you will want to read Shall We Dance?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but there was no obligation to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Shelley sure has a way of creating characters that are so lifelike you can’t help but fall in love with them. Sometimes you can even see a part of yourself in them.
From the very first page, I was drawn into the story. Meeting Shannon and her sisters. It’s an interesting dynamic to be sure. Each one with different personalities but each with a big heart. Then walks in Dylan Lange and his problems. Especially when it comes to his sister Jennifer. I enjoyed the banter between Shannon and Dylan as he learned his dance steps. How he learned dancing can sometimes take you away from your stress and let you be free for a while. The connection between them instant.
If ever there was a character that I connected with Jennifer is it. The thoughts and emotions of someone that has gone through a trauma such as hers was dead on. It was emotional for me and brought tears to my eyes. Reading about her struggle was real. She is definitely the butterfly emerging from her cocoon in this story.
Shall We Dance is a story that will make you want to put on your dancing shoes and let loose. I cannot wait to read the next book in Shelley’s new series. I’m betting there will be more surprises around the corner!
A wonderful story of family, relationships, love, and new beginnings.
This is such a heartwarming story of three sisters who were separated when they were young. One sister, after a DNA test, decides to reunite them. The wonderful way they come together and make it work is a joy to read. They have all grown up in different circumstances and are really different in personalities and yet they strive to become a family. Watch as they bond, fall in love, have crisis’s and deal with them and how they now will be one of your favorite friends to share time with. Looking forward to reading about the next sisters life as she moves forward.
I just finished reading Shall We Dance? and I didn’t want to stop reading this wonderful story! I found it refreshing to read about a dance teacher and her students, especially one handsome one. When I was very young, my parents let me take tap and ballet lessons. I loved it! I used to dance around the house with my toes curled under dreaming of becoming a ballerina.
Along with the dancing, three young women discovered they were all sisters through a DNA and all moved in together for a year to get to know one another. One was a police officer, another was a famous model, and of course the dance instructor, Shannon. I enjoyed the love and sweetness surrounding the birth sisters.
There was an intriguing mystery surrounding the sister of Dylan (the handsome cop/dance student) that was woven into the various stories that was well written and gripping emotionally. Jennifer’s struggle with her past involving being attacked by three guys is shared with us as she tries to overcome her darkness that she lived in.Most of all, I enjoyed Dylan and Shannon as she instructed him as they danced together. It is very sweet and romantic.I’m thankful to have read book one in this new series, since I know the next one will be wonderful like this one!
Shelley is a wonderful author and she’s another great storyteller! I’ve followed her ever since her first Amish book came out.
Her style of writing does tend to change a little bit. Of course it all depends on what story she writes too! I love it that she branches out and I look forward to seeing what she comes out with next!
I never miss any of her books!
This story really hit home to me. You see I have two other sisters out there somewhere too.
I’ve often wondered what they’re like and would someday Lord willing I will get to me them.
Some this this story left me with strong emotions for this reason. It made me feel like I was missing out on so much!
Being raised as an only child got rather lonely.
Shannon has more guts than I do that’s for sure.
It was fun getting to know Shannon and her sisters. Living together can be a blessing because you get to find out a lot of things.
I really enjoyed what this story had to offer. I felt blessed to be able to get to read this book. It left my heart feeling full as I imagined what meeting my own sisters could be like.
This is the 1st book in a new series and to me it’s off to a great start!
My thanks to Netgalley. I was NOT required to write a review. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Today’s technology of DNA, what a remarkable tool, not that long ago one we couldn’t even conceive, now lost family members are being found and secrets are being reveal. Loved how the author used this tool to bring three sisters together, and then they decide to live together for a year.
This is a series that I have read previous books in, and this is the start of a new one, but you will not be lost to read this one, it really can stand alone.
What a joy these sisters are, and so different, and love their personalities, and compassion.
We are given a bit of romance, a few new friends, and one new one whose life is being threatened, as we follow this family finding one another.
I really enjoyed this story, and it felt like something that really happened!
I received this book through Net Galley and Blackstone Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
Shall We Dance is the debut book written by Shelley Shepard Gray in her new The Dance with me series. This story is remarkable. The characters are truly likeable and easy to relate to. The characters are well developed and have the right personalities to tell this story. The story is one that will attract readers from all genres.
There are three sisters who just found out about one another in their late 20s and decide to move in together for a year to form a family. Each one is different in personalities but they form a loving bond. Shannon who has bought a building for her dance studio has renovated the upstairs apartment for them all to live in. Kimmer is a budding model from New York but adjusts remarkably well to small town living. Traci who is a police officer in Cleveland, Ohio is more than anxious to relocate to slide down her pace on life. Dylan Lange is a Bridgeport Police officer and has been assigned Traci as his new partner. One of these young ladies is attracted to Dylan and it will surprise you as to which one. There is another amazing character who will definitely draw you into this story and her story is truly heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. This story contains the right amount of love, family, drama, and mystery to be an exceptional read for all genre lovers. The author includes dance quotes at the beginning of each chapter which are inspiring.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of an truly enjoyable read. I highly recommend this book to all readers.
Congratulations to Shelley Shepard Gray on the fantastic start to her new series. I have read the excerpt from the second story, Take the Lead, and will be anticipating it’s release.
I’m doing pirouettes over this new Dance With Me Series. My toe tapping starts with the beautiful cover and ends with the creative words between the covers. I loved the concept of three sisters finding each other and living together to explore their developing relationships and personalities. I found it refreshing to read something new and different. I definitely loved the lesser character of Jennifer and hope there is more of her in future books. I will say I am used to reading Ms. Gray’s Christian fiction, therefore I wasn’t sure about the characters drinking alcohol. I realize this is a common occurrence in today’s society, but it isn’t part of my world. It didn’t offend me, but it might some readers. This book made me want to visit the dance studio and watch Shannon work her magic teaching. I look forward to visiting Bridgeport, Ohio again in future books of this series. In the meantime I’ll practice my two step.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Charming Small Town Romance with a Touch of Suspense… This book is a terrific start of a new series. Three sisters separated as toddlers and growing up in different states move into an apartment that Shannon has found in a small Ohio town. Shannon is disappointed that her first private dance student is only there because he lost a bet. The handsome police officer Dylan may have started lessons for that reason, but he enjoys the lessons and is charmed by his instructor. Dylan’s sister Jen is still getting over the trauma of being attacked two years ago. Jen is started to venture back into life, but it might put her life at peril. I received a free copy of this eBook from the publisher. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I really enjoyed reading this charming book. I would love to live in a small town like Bridgeport and visit Camille’s bookstore and enjoy Jen’s cooking. I found the main characters very believable. I love this sweet romance with a touch of suspense and I look forward to the next book in this series.
I enjoy when I am caught up in the lives of the characters and lose track of time. Shannon, Traci and Kimber choose to live together in Bridgeport so they could get to know each other. Shannon’s dream of owning a dance studio was being fulfilled, but she didn’t dream a handsome cop Dylan Lange would want dancing lessons at her dance studio. This story is not your usual romance as characters had faced some difficult trauma, especially Dylan’s sister Tiffany. This book was filled with action with Dylan and Traci being partners on the police force, Kimber modeling career, Shannon’s dance studio being busy and Tiffany learning to live life outside of her brother’s home and being a Betty Crocker in the kitchen. There’s never a dull moment but there are some intense moments as threats were made against a sibling. One thing about it, Shelley Shepard Gray stood strong with siblings caring for one another as well as friends even during difficult times. There were brief prayers prayed at times, but otherwise there is no faith message in the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher, and was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own opinion.
Shannon is a dance teacher who recently connected with her two adult sisters. Shannon is sweet funny and just like a best friend. Dylan is police office that lost a bet. He is taking dance lessons from Shannon. Dylan has also taken his sister Jennifer under his wing. Jennifer went through a very traumatic event. Jennifer is recovering and trying to get back on her feet one day at a time. Dylan and Shannon have wonderful connection. They have great chemistry. This is a romance but it also has suspense. This book reads like a Hallmark movie. It is very character driven. I loved all the characters. I loved the dance quotes that begin each chapter. “Dance is how we convey our feelings without words”. This book a is perfect start to this series. I am really excited to read Traci’s story. This is first book I have read by Shelley Shepard I would totally recommend this book. I am looking forward to reading all of her books.
Sweet story, nice return to Bridgeport. This was a heartwarming story of family, friendships, and love. I look forward to more in the series.
“Shall We Dance?” by Shelley Shepard Gray
I really loved this story. If you like clean romance with a touch of police drama then I think you will really like this story too. A nice touch was the dance quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I would love to chat with you about this story… but then I would run the chance of spoiling the story for you… because discovering all the bits and pieces of the story is why we read our novels… Oops almost forgot to share that I received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley. And, this review expresses my honest opinions. Happy Reading ! !
*I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Shannon, Traci, and Kimber were separated as children. Two of them were adopted, one grew up in a group home. When they finally find one another, they leave everything behind to live together for one year. A “getting to know you” year. As these three sisters are learning about one another, they become entwined with Dylan and his sister Jennifer, helping to overcome obstacles. Throw in a little falling in love and there’s your story.
I have read many of Shelley Shepard Gray’s books. I have loved them all. I loved the characters in this book. With that being said, I felt that there was too much going on in too little amount of time. Being that this book is the first in a series, I felt that if the focus was going to be on the sisters, maybe more background on them would’ve been appropriate. The love story could’ve been added in and Jennifer’s story could’ve been kept to a minimum to possibly be a book of its own in the series. I am most certainly not an author so I can’t say that my ideas are even good ones. Just giving my opinion.
Otherwise, I did like the book. I feel like this series has a lot of potential to be as great as the rest of Ms. Gray’s books.
I loved the author’s series Bridgeport Social Club, and couldn’t wait to being this book. This new series takes us back to Bridgeport. Where, thanks to Shannon Murphy from West Virginia, three sisters that never knew they existed, now have uprooted themselves and are living together in an apartment above Shannon’s dance studio.
We meet police officer Dylan Lange when he looses a bet and is forced to take dance lessons with Shannon. But what he thought would be torture, changes when he meets Shannon, and is surprised to discover she is the sister of his new partner.
We also meet Jennifer, Dylan’s sister, who has been living with him and whose past is tragic.
I don’t want to give the story away, but suffice is to say it’s a story about family. About the love siblings have between themselves to the point of doing anything to keep them safe. In this case , Dylan’s love for Jennifer .
The plot is touching and engaging, and the characters perfect in their imperfections . I can’t wait to see what else the author has for us in future books.
Lastly, as a dancer, I had so smile reading the quotes about dancing we find throughout the book. All so very true.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.