Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
Lisa’s Dance: The Young Romance Series is a young adult novella by Brett Galen. After a seemingly destined, but accidental, kiss in the high school hallway, Cole Douglas apologizes to Lisa Mathers, one of the most popular girls in his class. Their kiss lingers in his mind, and when she unexpectedly shows up at his house and kisses him again, he is truly perplexed. He suggests a date, and despite his indecisiveness, fumbles his way into a friendship with Lisa. Lisa cleverly hints at a dance she wants to have with Cole, but he doesn’t know if he can risk the embarrassment of dancing in public and the heartbreak if Lisa doesn’t have feelings for him.
Brett Galen has mastered the art of relaying a powerful love story without inappropriate situations or language. Having a level of character development within the pages without material some readers may find offensive is refreshing. The characters make wise decisions in their love lives, but their choice in entertainment and Cole’s motivation to push himself beyond his physical limits shows their youth. Cole’s dream ties into the theme well and its meaning is revealed at the perfect moment. Galen dangles the potential for a happily ever after between the characters in front of his readers, as they hope Cole and Lisa will unite. Even though the story is under one hundred pages, readers can become invested in Cole and Lisa’s happiness. Full of romance, persistence, and determination, Lisa’s Dance is a great selection for young adults and mature readers alike.