I read Curveball On the Dance Floor by Karin Beery because I read her first book, Finally Forever, and appreciated spending time with dancers who represented the types of “cheerful givers” God adores in 2 Corinthians 9:7. The Novak sisters, Christine and Caroline, are the epitome of women who dance and give generously—on and off the floor.
Christine Novak and Tony Caldwell are the main characters. They compete in a dance event to support Pathways Home for Women. Throughout the novel, I found myself longing for more description and narrative between the nonstop dialogue. Perhaps this is a matter of personal preference, but I often wanted a pause—some breathing space. I would have found the story more relaxing with added narration about costumes, settings, and charitable causes.
One thing is for sure: Beery has mastered contemporary snappy dialogue. I found myself smiling throughout the novel because I don’t experience fast-paced city conversation, and it made me smile. That lively dialogue also sets the stage for one of the novel’s most important themes—learning not to judge too quickly or hold someone like Tony captive to their past. Beery shows that transformation can come not only from within but also through outside influences that shape people into stronger Christians and kinder individuals.
If you enjoy learning about characters with a heart for ministry or charity, you will appreciate Curveball On the Dance Floor by Karin Beery. If you are new to her writing, you might also enjoy her first novel, Finally Forever, a sweet, contemporary romance.
