Leningrad, 1958. Twin sisters Maya and Natasha have worked their whole lives in the pursuit of one goal: to dance with the Kirov Ballet, like their late mother. But a new law from the Kremlin upends Maya and Natasha’s lives: due to fears of defection, family members may no longer travel abroad together. The Kirov can only accept one of them.

As the Cold War heats up, Maya and Natasha must confront their loyalties: to East versus West; to the government that saved them versus their dreams of freedom; and, always, to each other.

“No one can possibly imagine what’s ahead in this novel’s tornado of a plot… eye-catching.” -Kirkus Reviews

“A stunning ballet of love, loss, and unbreakable loyalty.” -Shelf Awareness

“The omniscient perspective creates a truly cinematic experience…in this riveting tale about sisterhood and the purpose of art.” -Booklist

“Engrossing…a touching, thrilling heartbreak for any reader.” -USA Today

“Durham’s careful writing about dualities feels like delicate choreography.” -Los Angeles Times

Now available wherever books are sold. (Translations forthcoming in Germany, Brazil, and Albania.)