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Little Movements
A sparkling debut novel about a woman who must figure out whether being creatively fulfilled is compatible with being happily married, and what it means to be a Black artist in one of the whitest parts of America.
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
December 24, 2025
i love to read about artists. it's my replacement for creativity.
https://emmareadstoomuch.substack.com...
this may have lost me in the middle, but it had me in the beginning and the end. and those are the fun parts anyway.
choices in this could be interesting — some unbelievable take-you-out-of-the-narrative proper names, dramatic short chapters, hard-to-convey visual descriptions — but i was invested in our protagonist and her relationships and i rooted for her!
i wish this were a little more arty if anything. but.
bottom line: i'll read more from this author.
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
https://emmareadstoomuch.substack.com...
this may have lost me in the middle, but it had me in the beginning and the end. and those are the fun parts anyway.
choices in this could be interesting — some unbelievable take-you-out-of-the-narrative proper names, dramatic short chapters, hard-to-convey visual descriptions — but i was invested in our protagonist and her relationships and i rooted for her!
i wish this were a little more arty if anything. but.
bottom line: i'll read more from this author.
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
December 5, 2025
Great debut novel about a Black choreographer navigating race and art. I appreciated and felt moved by how Lauren Morrow wrote about our protagonist Layla’s journey with her racial identity. Little Movements asks intriguing questions about creativity among artists of color (in the book’s case Black artists specifically) and whether this art can ever truly be “not about race” in a white supremacist society. The author’s deep understanding of dance came through too; the scenes related to dance felt authentic and digestible. Morrow’s prose as a whole felt compelling and smart, but without being pretentious or hard-to-grasp.
I do tire of the mediocre white romantic partner trope, though I felt that Morrow handled Layla’s evolution in that relationship well. Layla’s growth as a whole was wonderful to read. Looking forward to witnessing more of Morrow’s work!
I do tire of the mediocre white romantic partner trope, though I felt that Morrow handled Layla’s evolution in that relationship well. Layla’s growth as a whole was wonderful to read. Looking forward to witnessing more of Morrow’s work!
July 10, 2025
Layla Smart eats, sleeps, and breathes dance. But as she wanders into her thirties, she moves toward a new passion: choreography. She’s been doing shows here and there, but gets her big break when a Vermont arts community asks her to be the choreographer-in-residence for a year. It doesn’t take long for her to realize that her opportunity might be the community’s answer to questions about their lack of diversity. As she tries to build the show of a lifetime, she wrangles with a marriage in trouble and questions about her past.
The narrative shines with descriptions of dance. I didn’t think it was possible to “show” specific movements and gestures, but I was stunned more than once. I could see it all in my mind’s eye, and I don’t even watch ballet. In fact, I think I have a greater appreciation for the craft. Even the preparations, the inner workings, the music, the costumes make sense for me now. I felt the anguish when a piece doesn’t go well. Morrow delivered the creative process of dance like I’d never imagined.
Also, the issues of race are intertwined in an intelligent, realistic way. Layla just wants to put on a dance, with no interest in race. Yet, the community leaders are expecting some representation of the Black experience. From there, Morrow uses true dialogue, vibrant scenes, and a little exposition to show us a new look at race and art. The work reminded me of the issues you might find in Erasure by Percival Everett.
I’m just a writer, not an artist. But I enjoyed meeting the artists here. Maybe because they mostly seem to revere New York, or maybe because they shun traditional expressions of their craft. Each was infused with some brilliant quirks and attributes, especially Layla.
Does it read like a memoir? Oh, yes. I went through it, read the Acknowledgements and About the Author sections, and said, “Ah, so THAT’S it!” Layla is as close a reflection of the author as you can get, if only for their exceptionally similar resume and credentials. It felt at times that this was simply a journal of what actually happened a few years ago. Not a natural flow from the new character that she’s trying to build. It’s an odd comment, but that made the feel here not as organic as I might’ve wanted.
Morrow also relies heavily on flashbacks to detail Layla’s past. That draws attention away from the plot, making it feel less important than the MC’s history and philosophy. Perhaps that’s why one or two prior reviewers commented on the slow pace to the midpoint. That said, Layla’s conflict and perseverance are a good force within the story. Sometimes I scratched my head at how she addressed some personal challenges, but I liked her eventual mental toughness. There’s also a good turning point at about 75% which galvanizes everyone, so look out for that.
A fine look at the world of dance, art, and race.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Little Movements will be published September 9.
The narrative shines with descriptions of dance. I didn’t think it was possible to “show” specific movements and gestures, but I was stunned more than once. I could see it all in my mind’s eye, and I don’t even watch ballet. In fact, I think I have a greater appreciation for the craft. Even the preparations, the inner workings, the music, the costumes make sense for me now. I felt the anguish when a piece doesn’t go well. Morrow delivered the creative process of dance like I’d never imagined.
Also, the issues of race are intertwined in an intelligent, realistic way. Layla just wants to put on a dance, with no interest in race. Yet, the community leaders are expecting some representation of the Black experience. From there, Morrow uses true dialogue, vibrant scenes, and a little exposition to show us a new look at race and art. The work reminded me of the issues you might find in Erasure by Percival Everett.
I’m just a writer, not an artist. But I enjoyed meeting the artists here. Maybe because they mostly seem to revere New York, or maybe because they shun traditional expressions of their craft. Each was infused with some brilliant quirks and attributes, especially Layla.
Does it read like a memoir? Oh, yes. I went through it, read the Acknowledgements and About the Author sections, and said, “Ah, so THAT’S it!” Layla is as close a reflection of the author as you can get, if only for their exceptionally similar resume and credentials. It felt at times that this was simply a journal of what actually happened a few years ago. Not a natural flow from the new character that she’s trying to build. It’s an odd comment, but that made the feel here not as organic as I might’ve wanted.
Morrow also relies heavily on flashbacks to detail Layla’s past. That draws attention away from the plot, making it feel less important than the MC’s history and philosophy. Perhaps that’s why one or two prior reviewers commented on the slow pace to the midpoint. That said, Layla’s conflict and perseverance are a good force within the story. Sometimes I scratched my head at how she addressed some personal challenges, but I liked her eventual mental toughness. There’s also a good turning point at about 75% which galvanizes everyone, so look out for that.
A fine look at the world of dance, art, and race.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Little Movements will be published September 9.
November 19, 2025
I think this book is a great example of why own voices are so important. There is such an authenticity in the author’s writing and even while tackling so many topics, it never felt overdone or too much. I loved following Layla on her journey as a Black choreographer and thirty-something woman.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
Actual Rating: 4.25 stars
What a smooth read!!! After having deeply disappointing experiences with some of the highly anticipated Black novels of this year (The Wilderness and Great Black NOPE, I’m looking at you!!), Lauren Morrow’s debut was a breath of fresh air. I think the only 2025 releases I enjoyed more were These Heathens by Mia McKenzie and Dominion by Addie Citchens—so basically, Morrow is in great company!!
I think an alternate title for this book would be Middling Expectations. Our protagonist, Layla Smart, is beset by the fear of ambition from all sides:
While Layla initially ascribes this fear to her mom, it’s clear that over the years, she herself has learned to temper her own dreams for her life. These middling expectations are, of course, reinforced by the limitations of the art world, which has all sorts of racial and socioeconomic hierarchies. Not only does the director of her residency program circumscribe her work to fit the "moment of racial reckoning", but Layla’s path to choreography has already been limited by the confines of traditional dance careers. This seemed to track with what I knew from attending an arts high school, where many dancers were told they didn’t have the “right body types” to go further in ballet. Morrow tears apart this deeply troubling dance culture, and how it particularly disqualifies Black dancers, early on in her novel. This is not the only time Morrow focuses on the unique contours of the modern dance world. I’m a sucker for an industry-focused book, and even moreso for a book that dives deep into what makes someone good at a specific craft or discipline. It’s why books like Carrie Soto Is Back have a special place in my heart. Few authors can make the strategy, skill, and spontaneity of performance and/or sport come alive on the page—but when they do, it’s just as electric as the dance itself.
What’s more, Morrow is deeply reflective on showing the physical burden of dance on the body. This looks different for all characters, with some deciding to take a step back preemptively, and others pushing themselves to the brink and retroactively changing course. This all felt very central to an industry novel: Morrow focuses on what it means to move up in your career, and thus transfer the grunt work onto younger people with less resources. There’s this particular section on pages 84-86 where Layla is reflecting on how her life as an artist is made more possible by her husband covering her expenses, and her health not being in daily risk for her paycheck. Meanwhile, the dancers working at her direction are staring down constant injurious work environments, and that’s only for their first of two or three different jobs!!!
On the point of injuries: I just listened to a book talk between the author and Rob Franklin, author of my previously discussed hateread, Great Black NOPE. While I’m not as much of a fan of Franklin’s debut, he hit the nail on the head about Morrow’s book—it is suffused with a terror about losing control of the body. As ANYONE who knows anything about my last 2 years of life can attest, this is an everpresent fear/reality of mine, so it’s always incredibly affirming to see other humans dealing with the same realities in their fiction.
Speaking of Rob Franklin, I think another reason why I appreciated this book more than some of the buzzier Black novels of 2025 is because Little Movements provides a true rarity in modern fiction: a frank depiction of being an Oreo in the new millenium. Layla is neither overly apologetic nor infuriatingly dishonest about the life she’s chosen—she’s just living inside it, and Morrow is drawing out the useful threads of her character’s experience, without running it into the ground. Here is a strong example:
Why, you might ask, do I enjoy this sort of passage while rolling my eyes at the Oreo musings in Great Black NOPE, and pulling my hair out at the callous treatment of Black homelessness in The Wilderness? Again, I think the only real reason I can point to is Morrow's humility about what she doesn’t know, and transparency about what she does. Rather than striving for an omniscience about every sort of Black experience, Morrow feels comfortable to peek into what she can, and fade out where she can’t. In a world where a good 95% OF PUBLISHED BLACK NOVELISTS HAVE WHITE HUSBANDS, it’s so refreshing to see someone address this head-on, without the performative handwringing or curious evasions I'm used to. I think the last time I felt this moved by a novel (partially!) about an interracial cishet relationship was The Office of Historical Corrections by Danielle Evans—again, HIGH PRAISE from me. So yes, of course the discussion of these topics and inclusion of random dance breaks/cultural bonding moments were a little clunky—I have yet to see ANY author capture these moments on the page without a bit of cringe. But still, I felt really moved by the integrity of Morrow’s exploration in this novel—she stayed true to herself and her character, something very few of her peers seem willing or able to do.
So in closing, I’d highly recommend this!!! Little Movements is a breezy, absorbing read; and Lauren Morrow is a promising, clear-eyed author. I look forward to reading more of her work in the years to come!!!
What a smooth read!!! After having deeply disappointing experiences with some of the highly anticipated Black novels of this year (The Wilderness and Great Black NOPE, I’m looking at you!!), Lauren Morrow’s debut was a breath of fresh air. I think the only 2025 releases I enjoyed more were These Heathens by Mia McKenzie and Dominion by Addie Citchens—so basically, Morrow is in great company!!
I think an alternate title for this book would be Middling Expectations. Our protagonist, Layla Smart, is beset by the fear of ambition from all sides:
“Drugs and alcohol could ruin a person from the inside out. But the real cautionary tale was ambition—too much ambition, too much faith in oneself, could land a moderately intelligent and talented person in a lifetime of debt and regret. Dream enough, but not so hopefully that it ruined your life. Dream medium.” (2)
While Layla initially ascribes this fear to her mom, it’s clear that over the years, she herself has learned to temper her own dreams for her life. These middling expectations are, of course, reinforced by the limitations of the art world, which has all sorts of racial and socioeconomic hierarchies. Not only does the director of her residency program circumscribe her work to fit the "moment of racial reckoning", but Layla’s path to choreography has already been limited by the confines of traditional dance careers. This seemed to track with what I knew from attending an arts high school, where many dancers were told they didn’t have the “right body types” to go further in ballet. Morrow tears apart this deeply troubling dance culture, and how it particularly disqualifies Black dancers, early on in her novel. This is not the only time Morrow focuses on the unique contours of the modern dance world. I’m a sucker for an industry-focused book, and even moreso for a book that dives deep into what makes someone good at a specific craft or discipline. It’s why books like Carrie Soto Is Back have a special place in my heart. Few authors can make the strategy, skill, and spontaneity of performance and/or sport come alive on the page—but when they do, it’s just as electric as the dance itself.
What’s more, Morrow is deeply reflective on showing the physical burden of dance on the body. This looks different for all characters, with some deciding to take a step back preemptively, and others pushing themselves to the brink and retroactively changing course. This all felt very central to an industry novel: Morrow focuses on what it means to move up in your career, and thus transfer the grunt work onto younger people with less resources. There’s this particular section on pages 84-86 where Layla is reflecting on how her life as an artist is made more possible by her husband covering her expenses, and her health not being in daily risk for her paycheck. Meanwhile, the dancers working at her direction are staring down constant injurious work environments, and that’s only for their first of two or three different jobs!!!
On the point of injuries: I just listened to a book talk between the author and Rob Franklin, author of my previously discussed hateread, Great Black NOPE. While I’m not as much of a fan of Franklin’s debut, he hit the nail on the head about Morrow’s book—it is suffused with a terror about losing control of the body. As ANYONE who knows anything about my last 2 years of life can attest, this is an everpresent fear/reality of mine, so it’s always incredibly affirming to see other humans dealing with the same realities in their fiction.
Speaking of Rob Franklin, I think another reason why I appreciated this book more than some of the buzzier Black novels of 2025 is because Little Movements provides a true rarity in modern fiction: a frank depiction of being an Oreo in the new millenium. Layla is neither overly apologetic nor infuriatingly dishonest about the life she’s chosen—she’s just living inside it, and Morrow is drawing out the useful threads of her character’s experience, without running it into the ground. Here is a strong example:
“What I didn’t say was that, outside of family gatherings, I had never been in a majority-Black space. From the first moment I’d excelled, I’d been thrust into whiteness—academically, artistically, socially. Somewhere along the way, I’d started to drink the Kool-Aid, to believe that this was the best, most respected path. I’d become so accustomed to those worlds that I felt slightly out of place when surrounded by other Black people, even at family celebrations, reverse code-switching to keep up. I’d felt sick as a child the first time someone told me I was smart, or pretty, or talented for a Black girl. And while I hadn’t heard those words after leaving Millwood, I’d felt their sentiment many times over the years. But rather than bristle, I’d embraced it. Now, as this truth rushed over me, I felt sick once again.” (139)
Why, you might ask, do I enjoy this sort of passage while rolling my eyes at the Oreo musings in Great Black NOPE, and pulling my hair out at the callous treatment of Black homelessness in The Wilderness? Again, I think the only real reason I can point to is Morrow's humility about what she doesn’t know, and transparency about what she does. Rather than striving for an omniscience about every sort of Black experience, Morrow feels comfortable to peek into what she can, and fade out where she can’t. In a world where a good 95% OF PUBLISHED BLACK NOVELISTS HAVE WHITE HUSBANDS, it’s so refreshing to see someone address this head-on, without the performative handwringing or curious evasions I'm used to. I think the last time I felt this moved by a novel (partially!) about an interracial cishet relationship was The Office of Historical Corrections by Danielle Evans—again, HIGH PRAISE from me. So yes, of course the discussion of these topics and inclusion of random dance breaks/cultural bonding moments were a little clunky—I have yet to see ANY author capture these moments on the page without a bit of cringe. But still, I felt really moved by the integrity of Morrow’s exploration in this novel—she stayed true to herself and her character, something very few of her peers seem willing or able to do.
So in closing, I’d highly recommend this!!! Little Movements is a breezy, absorbing read; and Lauren Morrow is a promising, clear-eyed author. I look forward to reading more of her work in the years to come!!!
July 29, 2025
Lauren Morrow writes of what she knows, and thus, Layla, her protagonist, shares much of her background. It would be helpful to have an understanding about challenges a choreographer faces to get the most out of this book since there is a lot of description of movement as well as music, but the personal difficulties in being hired to create a dance for a BIPOC work in a venue formerly known for works featuring Caucasian artists is well drawn, and the frustrations of a long distance relationship are beautifully crafted. Well done.
November 7, 2025
I love a well written story about people in the arts and I’m not very picky about what form of art it takes. Like all books, these must have strong characters, with art part of the setting and impetus for their stories. 𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗧𝗟𝗘 𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦 by debut author Lauren Morrow did just that, telling the story of choreographer Layla Smart. Layla has won a prestigious 9-month residency in Vermont. She’s excited, nervous, and a first for Briar House: a Black choreographer. As she sets about staging her dance with four dedicated dancers, who also happen to be Black, things around her start not quite adding up. A sense of unease develops.
My description makes it sound a little like a thriller, but this book most definitely is not that. It’s literary fiction to its core. The focus never waivers from Layla, her thoughts, emotions, dreams, pains, and marriage which isn’t as healthy as it should be. I loved being in the world of dance and at the same time getting a really great story and a wonderful character in Layla. 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘔𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 is an excellent debut that I’ve seen far too little about. If you’re a lover of the arts, you definitely need to give it a try and if you just love a good story, it’s right for you, too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 @𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘮𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬.
My description makes it sound a little like a thriller, but this book most definitely is not that. It’s literary fiction to its core. The focus never waivers from Layla, her thoughts, emotions, dreams, pains, and marriage which isn’t as healthy as it should be. I loved being in the world of dance and at the same time getting a really great story and a wonderful character in Layla. 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘔𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 is an excellent debut that I’ve seen far too little about. If you’re a lover of the arts, you definitely need to give it a try and if you just love a good story, it’s right for you, too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 @𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘮𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬.
October 10, 2025
3.5 but I’ll round up! In another life I would be a dancer, but in this life with 0 dance experience I will take reading about it vicariously. This was a really enjoyable read. It was a little more serious than I anticipated, but the seriousness felt important. I got lost in the sauce of the technical dance terms, but that’s just me not knowing 😅 It was also set mostly in fall Vermont, so it was a necessary first read of fall break.
Note to self: It reminds me a lot of When No One is Watching by Alyssia Cole and Symphony of Secrets by Brandon Slocumb
Note to self: It reminds me a lot of When No One is Watching by Alyssia Cole and Symphony of Secrets by Brandon Slocumb
June 11, 2025
This is a fascinating novel about the world of dance and how cut-throat it can be! Layla is a young choreographer who is pregnant but initially afraid to tell husband Eli as she's not sure about their relationship. She continues to battle with the idea and is also worried about Briar House's future as it's rumored to have been sold. It's a really touching story about relationships and dance where some will do anything they can to get ahead!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
September 9, 2025
Thank you Lauren Morrow and Penguin Random House for my ARC of this lovely novel!
“The only thing I knew was that I needed to create. This life had not come easily. It was a most unreasonable, illogical, unrewarding thing—to be a modern dance choreographer—and yet I couldn't keep away. I had to fight for it each time.“
Lauren Morrow’s debut novel is a love letter to black creatives and a meditation on self-definition and dedication to craft. She tells of a dancer and choreographer confronting otherness in predominantly white spaces, the complexities of relationships as a creative, and the changes in career expectations, her body and her relationship with her passion. Morrow writes with impeccable authenticity and spirit. We are gently led to ponder how much surrender and sacrifice we must (and are willing to) do in order to follow and reimagine our dreams and deepest desires.
“The only thing I knew was that I needed to create. This life had not come easily. It was a most unreasonable, illogical, unrewarding thing—to be a modern dance choreographer—and yet I couldn't keep away. I had to fight for it each time.“
Lauren Morrow’s debut novel is a love letter to black creatives and a meditation on self-definition and dedication to craft. She tells of a dancer and choreographer confronting otherness in predominantly white spaces, the complexities of relationships as a creative, and the changes in career expectations, her body and her relationship with her passion. Morrow writes with impeccable authenticity and spirit. We are gently led to ponder how much surrender and sacrifice we must (and are willing to) do in order to follow and reimagine our dreams and deepest desires.
June 15, 2025
DNF 25% in.
This book was not for me unfortunately. I feel that this is written for an extremely specific audience - artists. The subject wasn’t something I found interesting so it was really hard for me to want to invest my time in this.
I also feel like pregnancy journeys/fertility need to be written very delicately - and there was a conversation between the main character and her husband that super turned me off and made me dislike Layla - and since this book is a single POV and focuses on her experience as a choreography fellow I didn’t enjoy being in her perspective.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley
This book was not for me unfortunately. I feel that this is written for an extremely specific audience - artists. The subject wasn’t something I found interesting so it was really hard for me to want to invest my time in this.
I also feel like pregnancy journeys/fertility need to be written very delicately - and there was a conversation between the main character and her husband that super turned me off and made me dislike Layla - and since this book is a single POV and focuses on her experience as a choreography fellow I didn’t enjoy being in her perspective.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley
April 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC copy of this book.
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book and the writing. The author did such a great job describing scenes and the flow to each chapter kept me reading. I don't normally read books with dancing as a big topic, but I enjoyed how the author wrote the dancing scenes and it was fun learning more about the behind the scenes in the dancing career.
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book and the writing. The author did such a great job describing scenes and the flow to each chapter kept me reading. I don't normally read books with dancing as a big topic, but I enjoyed how the author wrote the dancing scenes and it was fun learning more about the behind the scenes in the dancing career.
August 22, 2025
3.25 🌟
I wanted to care more and just didn't. 😬
This book deals with a lot of heavy things- race, class, martial problems, fertility issues. But it was so slow that I found myself having a hard time rallying around the main character. In the second half of the book, Layla experiences growth but it wasn't enough to make up for the slow start.
Thanks, Netgalley for the ARC of this book!
I wanted to care more and just didn't. 😬
This book deals with a lot of heavy things- race, class, martial problems, fertility issues. But it was so slow that I found myself having a hard time rallying around the main character. In the second half of the book, Layla experiences growth but it wasn't enough to make up for the slow start.
Thanks, Netgalley for the ARC of this book!
April 15, 2025
3.5 rounded up.
October 5, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect with this, but I ended up enjoying it quite a bit. Layla Smart was a character that was introduced to us a former high-level dancer turned choreographer, and it was clear from the beginning that dance meant more to her than anything in her life, perhaps even her husband. While I could see that they loved each other at the beginning, there was tension, partly because they were going to be apart for 6 months while she worked on a choreography job in Vermont, but also because she seemed to be on the cusp of fulfilling her dreams while he was someone who hadn't yet become successful at being a writer, which was his dream. Still, he helps her to move to Vermont and leaves thoughtful finishing touches to trying creating a homey place for her, even as he tries to find reasons to not leave. But he does, and her work begins with the dance company.
It soon becomes apparent that there is an underlying current in the company as well as in the community, and the woman who hired her seems to know a lot more than she's revealed. We learn that it is unusual for a woman of color to be producing a dance in a place that has had mostly Caucasian choreographers and dancers, and she suddenly has a group of dancers and musicians that are decidedly in the minority category. She feels pressure to create a dance that highlights "her type of art" which had me feeling all icky for her, when all she wants to do is create art, period, without having to necessarily think about race.
Also, within the community (especially among the well-heeled) are folks that are NOT happy with people of color invading their territory, creating further tension. Layla also has to deal with the stress that naturally crops up among high level artists, although she generally likes most of them. Without going into specifics, I found the discussions Layla had with the other dancers, musicians, as well as with her boss to be educational and eye-opening.
The author shares some commonalities with Layla in that she studied dance (along with creative writing), so the way she wrote the dance passages were very impactful. It made me want to at least listen to an audiobook so that I could close my eyes and just listen to the description (but I didn't have the audiobook). I would love to watch Ailey perform what she described!
There was a moment as she came to realization of what was going on when there was an abrupt pivot so much so that I felt like my head was spinning. That section of the story seemed kind of rushed, but it brought us to the last quarter of the book, which was very movingly written and I very much liked the ways she ended it. But I'm wondering if the first half could have been trimmed down a little bit or moved along a bit faster and a little more time taken on the last quarter. That said, I enjoyed the story as written, so who am I to complain about pacing? It certainly kept me reading!
I believe this a debut novel for the author, and she does a very solid job with it. I was both entertained and informed by this story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about dance and the issues that BIPOC folks experience in different spaces, in this case, dance. I look forward to future novels by this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It soon becomes apparent that there is an underlying current in the company as well as in the community, and the woman who hired her seems to know a lot more than she's revealed. We learn that it is unusual for a woman of color to be producing a dance in a place that has had mostly Caucasian choreographers and dancers, and she suddenly has a group of dancers and musicians that are decidedly in the minority category. She feels pressure to create a dance that highlights "her type of art" which had me feeling all icky for her, when all she wants to do is create art, period, without having to necessarily think about race.
Also, within the community (especially among the well-heeled) are folks that are NOT happy with people of color invading their territory, creating further tension. Layla also has to deal with the stress that naturally crops up among high level artists, although she generally likes most of them. Without going into specifics, I found the discussions Layla had with the other dancers, musicians, as well as with her boss to be educational and eye-opening.
The author shares some commonalities with Layla in that she studied dance (along with creative writing), so the way she wrote the dance passages were very impactful. It made me want to at least listen to an audiobook so that I could close my eyes and just listen to the description (but I didn't have the audiobook). I would love to watch Ailey perform what she described!
There was a moment as she came to realization of what was going on when there was an abrupt pivot so much so that I felt like my head was spinning. That section of the story seemed kind of rushed, but it brought us to the last quarter of the book, which was very movingly written and I very much liked the ways she ended it. But I'm wondering if the first half could have been trimmed down a little bit or moved along a bit faster and a little more time taken on the last quarter. That said, I enjoyed the story as written, so who am I to complain about pacing? It certainly kept me reading!
I believe this a debut novel for the author, and she does a very solid job with it. I was both entertained and informed by this story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about dance and the issues that BIPOC folks experience in different spaces, in this case, dance. I look forward to future novels by this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 7, 2025
3.5 stars
Having a dance background made me appreciate this novel more than I think I would have otherwise, though I don't think that's necessary to enjoy the road that Layla travels.
Layla is a former dancer turned choreographer, and when she gets an opportunity to work in a small New England town, she knows that this could positively impact her career but that it's likely her identity as a Black woman will impact her experience in a geographic location and profession where she is not equitably represented. One immediate challenge is that Layla's husband isn't joining her full-time during this residency. There are strains on their relationship, and more appear to arrive every day. On a related note, prospective readers who are like me in that they like to have as little info as possible about plot points upon arrival should avoid even the basic summary of this book. I did avoid that summary, and I was glad I wasn't anticipating some of the major life changes that come for Layla and that I simply got to learn about them through the reading experience instead.
While I do not have personal challenges reading about pregnancy and fertility, I feel like a growing number of people around me really struggle with this content, so I'm adding that prospective readers who find this difficult should look elsewhere. It's a fundamental part of the novel in multiple instances. Folks who can manage the material may really enjoy (I did) how these motifs are tied into creative expression. For me, this is a highlight of the book.
At times, I wanted more depth versus fewer avenues (fertility, pregnancy, marital issues, race, class, etc.) being explored at more of a surface level. That noted, I enjoyed the writing style, the read overall, and the general messaging. I'm looking forward to engaging with more from this author.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Madison Dettlinger at Random House Marketing for this widget, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Having a dance background made me appreciate this novel more than I think I would have otherwise, though I don't think that's necessary to enjoy the road that Layla travels.
Layla is a former dancer turned choreographer, and when she gets an opportunity to work in a small New England town, she knows that this could positively impact her career but that it's likely her identity as a Black woman will impact her experience in a geographic location and profession where she is not equitably represented. One immediate challenge is that Layla's husband isn't joining her full-time during this residency. There are strains on their relationship, and more appear to arrive every day. On a related note, prospective readers who are like me in that they like to have as little info as possible about plot points upon arrival should avoid even the basic summary of this book. I did avoid that summary, and I was glad I wasn't anticipating some of the major life changes that come for Layla and that I simply got to learn about them through the reading experience instead.
While I do not have personal challenges reading about pregnancy and fertility, I feel like a growing number of people around me really struggle with this content, so I'm adding that prospective readers who find this difficult should look elsewhere. It's a fundamental part of the novel in multiple instances. Folks who can manage the material may really enjoy (I did) how these motifs are tied into creative expression. For me, this is a highlight of the book.
At times, I wanted more depth versus fewer avenues (fertility, pregnancy, marital issues, race, class, etc.) being explored at more of a surface level. That noted, I enjoyed the writing style, the read overall, and the general messaging. I'm looking forward to engaging with more from this author.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Madison Dettlinger at Random House Marketing for this widget, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
October 1, 2025
Little Movements by Lauren Morrow follows Layla Smart, a choreographer who accepts a residency at Briar House in Vermont, leaving behind her husband Eli and her Brooklyn life to pursue her art. The novel explores her creative struggles, her complicated marriage, and her navigation of race and identity in a largely white environment, all while weaving in deeply personal challenges around pregnancy, loss, and trust.
There were moments where the writing style stood out, though sometimes in ways that pulled me out of the story. For example, when Layla is teaching the four dancers at Briar House, the author often describes them with constructions like “some did this, others did that.” While not technically incorrect, that phrasing gave me the impression of a larger group than just four. With such a small ensemble, the effect always boiled down to two versus two, which made the wording feel a little off. It could have been tighter and more precise, especially given how much the choreography scenes mattered to the book.
Layla’s personal decisions were another area that raised questions for me.
Eli’s characterization was another sticking point.
On a broader level, the novel takes on a wide range of themes: pregnancy, miscarriage, infidelity, divorce, race, tokenization, and the artistic process. These are all important topics, but with so many competing threads, some of them felt more like background noise than lived experiences with consequences. Perhaps this reflected Layla’s own state of mind, where everything except choreography was pushed aside. Still, as a reader, it sometimes came across as incomplete or less realistic than it could have been.
Overall, Little Movements is ambitious in scope and offers a compelling look at the intersections of art and personal struggle, but not every thread feels fully developed. The strongest moments come through Layla’s choreography and the way her creative process interacts with her personal life, while some of the relational and emotional arcs left me unconvinced. It’s a novel with a lot of heart and important themes, though one that didn’t always land evenly for me.
There were moments where the writing style stood out, though sometimes in ways that pulled me out of the story. For example, when Layla is teaching the four dancers at Briar House, the author often describes them with constructions like “some did this, others did that.” While not technically incorrect, that phrasing gave me the impression of a larger group than just four. With such a small ensemble, the effect always boiled down to two versus two, which made the wording feel a little off. It could have been tighter and more precise, especially given how much the choreography scenes mattered to the book.
Layla’s personal decisions were another area that raised questions for me.
Eli’s characterization was another sticking point.
On a broader level, the novel takes on a wide range of themes: pregnancy, miscarriage, infidelity, divorce, race, tokenization, and the artistic process. These are all important topics, but with so many competing threads, some of them felt more like background noise than lived experiences with consequences. Perhaps this reflected Layla’s own state of mind, where everything except choreography was pushed aside. Still, as a reader, it sometimes came across as incomplete or less realistic than it could have been.
Overall, Little Movements is ambitious in scope and offers a compelling look at the intersections of art and personal struggle, but not every thread feels fully developed. The strongest moments come through Layla’s choreography and the way her creative process interacts with her personal life, while some of the relational and emotional arcs left me unconvinced. It’s a novel with a lot of heart and important themes, though one that didn’t always land evenly for me.
August 1, 2025
This is a book that shows passion with dance along with the complexity of racial tension in a work environment.
A modern dance has its own style and unique choreographic pattern creating rhythmic beauty. And that’s what Layla Smart set out to do at the Briar House.
She was thrilled in her early 30s after working so hard with her job in NYC to be selected as the choreographer-in-residence for an upcoming arts program. It was fascinating to learn about her approach with the dancers and also the music, setting, costumes, marketing and ticket sales to make everything come together.
Yet, there were obstacles. Her character was Black in an almost all white world of Vermont trying to fit in. She had to work with a white board in a community of conservatives. What did this mean?
There was also a lot of women’s issues. Her relationships were close with her friends and mother. However, her mother was direct and said it wouldn’t be good for Layla and her husband to live at separate places even for a few months. Parts were predictable from a mile away.
Still, the dialogue with the characters was intriguing and the author’s knowledge of dance with the key issues was apparent. It’s not easy to engage readers with a highly visual arts presentation. We couldn’t see the dancers on stage with their beautiful costumes but the image was clearly written and the added drama gave it more suspense.
My thanks to Random House and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of September 9, 2025.
A modern dance has its own style and unique choreographic pattern creating rhythmic beauty. And that’s what Layla Smart set out to do at the Briar House.
She was thrilled in her early 30s after working so hard with her job in NYC to be selected as the choreographer-in-residence for an upcoming arts program. It was fascinating to learn about her approach with the dancers and also the music, setting, costumes, marketing and ticket sales to make everything come together.
Yet, there were obstacles. Her character was Black in an almost all white world of Vermont trying to fit in. She had to work with a white board in a community of conservatives. What did this mean?
There was also a lot of women’s issues. Her relationships were close with her friends and mother. However, her mother was direct and said it wouldn’t be good for Layla and her husband to live at separate places even for a few months. Parts were predictable from a mile away.
Still, the dialogue with the characters was intriguing and the author’s knowledge of dance with the key issues was apparent. It’s not easy to engage readers with a highly visual arts presentation. We couldn’t see the dancers on stage with their beautiful costumes but the image was clearly written and the added drama gave it more suspense.
My thanks to Random House and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of September 9, 2025.
August 23, 2025
This a debut novel from Lauren Morrow (a BIPOC author with formal training in dance and a career at BAM, which is featured in this book!).
This book follows a Black dancer, Layla Smart, as the choreographer-in-residence in rural Vermont at Briar House, an arts program with a history of having mostly only white artists housed in a town with a white supremacy problem. This book touches on themes of racism, art as a BIPOC artist, navigating the cruel dance world as a thirty-something, healthcare and pregnancy issues specific to Black women, interracial marriage, and unfaithfulness in a marriage. Despite all these very serious themes, the book is not overly heavy and at times funny. The relationships Layla has with all of the side characters are pretty fleshed out and some turned out to be very sweet (which made me happy because that girl needed something good in her life!). I think my favorite relationship was that with her mother.
This book really surprised me in how much I enjoyed it. Including and conveying elements of dance within this book were also well done. There are some flashbacks included in her childhood that relate pretty closely in how the FMC deals with hardship in the present.
Highly recommend this one for anyone who has ever been in the dance world or just enjoys contemporary fiction. What a fantastic debut novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for an e-ARC of this book. This review was left voluntarily.
This book follows a Black dancer, Layla Smart, as the choreographer-in-residence in rural Vermont at Briar House, an arts program with a history of having mostly only white artists housed in a town with a white supremacy problem. This book touches on themes of racism, art as a BIPOC artist, navigating the cruel dance world as a thirty-something, healthcare and pregnancy issues specific to Black women, interracial marriage, and unfaithfulness in a marriage. Despite all these very serious themes, the book is not overly heavy and at times funny. The relationships Layla has with all of the side characters are pretty fleshed out and some turned out to be very sweet (which made me happy because that girl needed something good in her life!). I think my favorite relationship was that with her mother.
This book really surprised me in how much I enjoyed it. Including and conveying elements of dance within this book were also well done. There are some flashbacks included in her childhood that relate pretty closely in how the FMC deals with hardship in the present.
Highly recommend this one for anyone who has ever been in the dance world or just enjoys contemporary fiction. What a fantastic debut novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for an e-ARC of this book. This review was left voluntarily.
November 1, 2025
An engaging and emotional literary fiction novel! “Little Movements” delved deep into art, race, and relationships, and had some truly shocking plot twists along the way. The prose was confident and compelling, the issues explored were timely and nuanced, and I felt each interconnected emotion along with the characters, swept up in their passion for their art and their conviction. I loved reading about protagonist Layla’s conception of dance and choreography, and it was so satisfying to see the growth of her career and her own self-image over the course of the story, despite (or perhaps because of) the tangled problematic bureaucracy of the artistic residency she undertook. A great read!
Thanks to Random House and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thanks to Random House and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
January 10, 2026
Solid 4 stars for this debut novel. It combines two of my favorite topics: race relations and the creative arts.
Strong Black female lead is a choreographer and excited to have a new spot in an artist residency. I want to write more, but no spoilers. The ending was slightly unexpected but satisfying Similar to many of my own life experiences and creative endeavors.
Thanks to Orange County (California) Library for the digital audio version via Libby app.
[Audio: 8 hours, 22 minutes]
Time spent listening: 7 hours, 3 minutes
Strong Black female lead is a choreographer and excited to have a new spot in an artist residency. I want to write more, but no spoilers. The ending was slightly unexpected but satisfying Similar to many of my own life experiences and creative endeavors.
Thanks to Orange County (California) Library for the digital audio version via Libby app.
[Audio: 8 hours, 22 minutes]
Time spent listening: 7 hours, 3 minutes
January 28, 2026
I’m honestly surprised at people who said the pacing was slow—I zoomed through the book in a matter of hours!
That said, I felt so at home in this book. As a dancer, as an Other in the room, as a choreographer, as an artist with a day job, this hit so many points so dead on. Morrow makes it like life: About many things, and sometimes everything happening at once.
My only wish is that I got to sit with some of the characters a little more. I get the pacing would’ve been thrown, but I wanted to dig in with characters like Jade and Dahlia and really conceptualize them more.
That said, I felt so at home in this book. As a dancer, as an Other in the room, as a choreographer, as an artist with a day job, this hit so many points so dead on. Morrow makes it like life: About many things, and sometimes everything happening at once.
My only wish is that I got to sit with some of the characters a little more. I get the pacing would’ve been thrown, but I wanted to dig in with characters like Jade and Dahlia and really conceptualize them more.
November 25, 2025
This book was fine. It was very easy to get through but I just didn’t love it. It’s about a black Brooklyn choreographer who moves to Vermont for a year long residence. Not a lot happens and the few things that do happen are extremely melodramatic and under explained. I love a character driven story I just didn’t love this character and her cavalier life decisions and I don’t feel like I learned anything at all about choreography. Good audio.
January 11, 2026
Solid 4! This book was something I just picked up from the library, read the synopsis and said sure why not?! And I’m so glad I picked it up. To read about dance and the challenges Layla the main character faced made it a fast read for me. I loved reading something different than what I usually gravitate to.
October 5, 2025
[3.5!] i’m not a part of the dance world, but i found this writing so beautiful. apt peak into the industry, weaving in issues of race and agency, from a subject matter professional.
November 10, 2025
📚Little Movements
✍🏻Lauren Morrow
Blurb:
A sparkling debut novel about a woman who must figure out whether being creatively fulfilled is compatible with being happily married, and what it means to be a Black artist in one of the whitest parts of America.
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
My Thoughts:
An engaging and emotional literary fiction novel! “Little Movements” delved deep into art, race, and relationships, and had some truly shocking plot twists along the way. it’s a book about how dance has shaped Layla’s life. The professional drama gave the book more social meaning and clarity
Some of the ballet detail went completely over my head, though it was lovely to read!The plot was interesting, with a few ~twists~, but it was unevenly paced between drawn-out flashbacks and explosive moments. I did really like the exploration of race, power, and money in historic institutions.
Thanks NetGalley, Random House and Author Lauren Morrow for the complimentary copy of "Little Movements" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RandomHouse
#LaurenMorrow
#LittleMovements
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings:Moderate: Infidelity, Miscarriage, Abortion
✍🏻Lauren Morrow
Blurb:
A sparkling debut novel about a woman who must figure out whether being creatively fulfilled is compatible with being happily married, and what it means to be a Black artist in one of the whitest parts of America.
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
My Thoughts:
An engaging and emotional literary fiction novel! “Little Movements” delved deep into art, race, and relationships, and had some truly shocking plot twists along the way. it’s a book about how dance has shaped Layla’s life. The professional drama gave the book more social meaning and clarity
Some of the ballet detail went completely over my head, though it was lovely to read!The plot was interesting, with a few ~twists~, but it was unevenly paced between drawn-out flashbacks and explosive moments. I did really like the exploration of race, power, and money in historic institutions.
Thanks NetGalley, Random House and Author Lauren Morrow for the complimentary copy of "Little Movements" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RandomHouse
#LaurenMorrow
#LittleMovements
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings:Moderate: Infidelity, Miscarriage, Abortion
September 15, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thanks so much to Random House for the gifted ARC!
I really loved this—from the pacing (just right) to the writing style (engaging and clear) to the characters (authentic and well-developed), I thoroughly enjoyed my time from start to finish with this debut novel. I especially loved the prologue, and it perfectly sets the reader up for what this book is all about.
Essentially, Little Movements is about resisting the expectations others place on you—stopping the influence of what others say you should or shouldn’t be—and instead embracing your natural self. Layla faces pressure from all directions: Eli, her husband, wants her to be more warm and emotional, to feel things exactly as he does; her mother, who has spent their entire lives trying to prove something to others and demonstrate that they are better than those around them, forcing Layla to behave and present herself in just the right way; and now this institute that selected her for their residency program, aiming to make her a poster child, a token to showcase how progressive they are, trying to box her into a stereotype of a Black woman constantly fighting for social justice, and trying to make her work into something it’s not (this also really highlights how the lives of minorities are so often politicized against their will.) Layla just wants to do what makes her happy and fulfilled, but is constantly made to feel as though who she is or what she wants isn’t enough.
As the novel progresses, Layla lets go of her fears and doubts and others’ expectations, no longer letting them control or contain her. I really enjoyed following her on this journey and getting to see her become herself, fully realized and more confident than ever. Along the way, Morrow gives us prevalent commentary on issues like race and class in an effective way, at no point coming across as heavy-handed.
The final sentence perfectly captures the contrast between who Layla was at the beginning of this story and who she is at the end (and are words we should perhaps all try to live by): “It didn’t really matter how it looked, only how it felt.”
Thanks so much to Random House for the gifted ARC!
I really loved this—from the pacing (just right) to the writing style (engaging and clear) to the characters (authentic and well-developed), I thoroughly enjoyed my time from start to finish with this debut novel. I especially loved the prologue, and it perfectly sets the reader up for what this book is all about.
Essentially, Little Movements is about resisting the expectations others place on you—stopping the influence of what others say you should or shouldn’t be—and instead embracing your natural self. Layla faces pressure from all directions: Eli, her husband, wants her to be more warm and emotional, to feel things exactly as he does; her mother, who has spent their entire lives trying to prove something to others and demonstrate that they are better than those around them, forcing Layla to behave and present herself in just the right way; and now this institute that selected her for their residency program, aiming to make her a poster child, a token to showcase how progressive they are, trying to box her into a stereotype of a Black woman constantly fighting for social justice, and trying to make her work into something it’s not (this also really highlights how the lives of minorities are so often politicized against their will.) Layla just wants to do what makes her happy and fulfilled, but is constantly made to feel as though who she is or what she wants isn’t enough.
As the novel progresses, Layla lets go of her fears and doubts and others’ expectations, no longer letting them control or contain her. I really enjoyed following her on this journey and getting to see her become herself, fully realized and more confident than ever. Along the way, Morrow gives us prevalent commentary on issues like race and class in an effective way, at no point coming across as heavy-handed.
The final sentence perfectly captures the contrast between who Layla was at the beginning of this story and who she is at the end (and are words we should perhaps all try to live by): “It didn’t really matter how it looked, only how it felt.”
September 3, 2025
Layla Smart, a thirty-something Black choreographer, has been "living medium" but now she's ready to take a chance at making her dreams come true. She has accepted an offer for a 9 month residency at Briar House, a prestigious arts institute in rural Vermont, and will be leaving behind her life in New York City to work on creating a transformative piece with a small group of dancers. Her husband, Eli, who works in IT but was once an aspiring filmmaker, is staying behind in Brooklyn and while outwardly supportive seems to be resentful of her opportunity.
Prior to arriving in Vermont, Layla hadn't really thought about the fact that Briar House had primarily worked with white creatives in the past or that the institute was located in a predominantly white part of the state. She has always wanted to create art for art's sake insisting that her choreography was about the movements but it's made clear in Layla's first meeting with the institute's director that she is expected to dig into her people's history to reflect the "Black experience" and create work that will become part of the canon of Black dance. When one of her four BIPOC dancers abruptly quits after the first day, it becomes apparent that there might be more going on behind the scenes than she anticipated that will make it more difficult for her to accomplish her goals.
Little Movements is a thoughtful, touching and insightful novel about the world of dance and creative fields in general. It's a slow-paced journey of self-discovery as Layla finds her path as an artist and comes to terms with what she wants personally and from her relationships. The storyline also shows the racism and micro-aggressions faced by a Black woman in a creative industry where people of colour aren't adequately respresented on the boards of arts organizations or in decision-making roles within those organizations. Overall, a well-written, enjoyable debut novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for providing a digital ARC of this book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
Prior to arriving in Vermont, Layla hadn't really thought about the fact that Briar House had primarily worked with white creatives in the past or that the institute was located in a predominantly white part of the state. She has always wanted to create art for art's sake insisting that her choreography was about the movements but it's made clear in Layla's first meeting with the institute's director that she is expected to dig into her people's history to reflect the "Black experience" and create work that will become part of the canon of Black dance. When one of her four BIPOC dancers abruptly quits after the first day, it becomes apparent that there might be more going on behind the scenes than she anticipated that will make it more difficult for her to accomplish her goals.
Little Movements is a thoughtful, touching and insightful novel about the world of dance and creative fields in general. It's a slow-paced journey of self-discovery as Layla finds her path as an artist and comes to terms with what she wants personally and from her relationships. The storyline also shows the racism and micro-aggressions faced by a Black woman in a creative industry where people of colour aren't adequately respresented on the boards of arts organizations or in decision-making roles within those organizations. Overall, a well-written, enjoyable debut novel!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for providing a digital ARC of this book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
January 3, 2026
3.5 - rounded up
“That’s how endings are—you convince yourself they aren’t final. That they’re just a see you later, then years go by, and someone posts a photo in the same city where you happen to be, just for now, and you find time to grab a drink. You tell each other about the years in between. All the things that are the same, and everything that’s different. So much is different. You don’t quite pick up from where you left off—how could you? It’s been so long. But you feel light and comfortable. And you’re both doing well. Better than before. You can’t believe that time in your lives. So wild! Who were we then? And it’s good to see each other. You don’t want to wait that long until the next time. You make promises. And you go on. You forget again.”
A beautiful contemplation on what it means to make Black art and to be the “only” in creative spaces. Morrow also captures the late 20s to mid 30s question of “what am I doing with my life?” really well. So much of Layla’s journey to figure out what she wanted to do and what made her happy resonated me & reflected the questions that my friends and I have discussed and pondered over the years. About 40% through it lost its way- felt a bit too on the nose…but a strong beginning & end saved this for me. Morrow’s dance background shines through- the way she described performance and the dancers’ bodies was so beautiful - not sure if I’ve ever seen movement on the page depicted like that. Lots of references to heralded dance legends and institutions, which I appreciated. Truly wish we could have cut out the middle section and some of the distracting subplots so that it was a tighter read, but I understand (even if I don’t agree) why those subplots were included. Overall- a solid read & I’m excited for what Morrow releases next!
“That’s how endings are—you convince yourself they aren’t final. That they’re just a see you later, then years go by, and someone posts a photo in the same city where you happen to be, just for now, and you find time to grab a drink. You tell each other about the years in between. All the things that are the same, and everything that’s different. So much is different. You don’t quite pick up from where you left off—how could you? It’s been so long. But you feel light and comfortable. And you’re both doing well. Better than before. You can’t believe that time in your lives. So wild! Who were we then? And it’s good to see each other. You don’t want to wait that long until the next time. You make promises. And you go on. You forget again.”
A beautiful contemplation on what it means to make Black art and to be the “only” in creative spaces. Morrow also captures the late 20s to mid 30s question of “what am I doing with my life?” really well. So much of Layla’s journey to figure out what she wanted to do and what made her happy resonated me & reflected the questions that my friends and I have discussed and pondered over the years. About 40% through it lost its way- felt a bit too on the nose…but a strong beginning & end saved this for me. Morrow’s dance background shines through- the way she described performance and the dancers’ bodies was so beautiful - not sure if I’ve ever seen movement on the page depicted like that. Lots of references to heralded dance legends and institutions, which I appreciated. Truly wish we could have cut out the middle section and some of the distracting subplots so that it was a tighter read, but I understand (even if I don’t agree) why those subplots were included. Overall- a solid read & I’m excited for what Morrow releases next!
August 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this debut novel by Lauren Morrow. I took ballet throughout my childhood and highschool years, so this novel was definitely in my wheelhouse. I really connected to the main character and the camaraderie between the dancers. The Vermont setting was the cherry on top!
Synopsis:
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for the advanced digital copy of the book which will be published on September 9, 2025.
Synopsis:
Thirty-something Layla Smart was raised by her single mother to dream medium. But all Layla’s ever wanted was a career in dance, which requires dreaming big. So when she receives an offer to be the choreographer-in-residence at Briar House in rural Vermont, she temporarily leaves behind Brooklyn, her job, her friends, and her husband to pursue it.
Layla has nine months to navigate a complex institution and teach a career-defining dance to a group of Black dancers in a very small, very white town. She has help from a handsome composer, a neurotic costume designer, a witty communications director, and the austere program director who can only compare Layla to Black choreographers. It's an enormous feat, and that’s before Layla’s marriage buckles under the strain of distance, before Briar House’s problematic past comes to light, and before Layla finds out she's pregnant.
Little Movements is a poignant and insightful story that explores issues of race, class, art, and ambition. It is a novel about self-discovery, the pressures placed on certain bodies, and never giving up on your dream.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for the advanced digital copy of the book which will be published on September 9, 2025.
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