The Legend of L'esprit

Book excerpt: The Legend of LEsprit is the WINNER of the 2012 NATIONAL INDIE EXCELLENCE BOOK AWARD for YOUNG ADULT FICTION. "She deserves to die" are the chilling words whispered in the dark that compel a young dancer to discover who haunts her studio---and why. New to Chicago, 15-year-old Libby Nobleton stands outside the city's premier studio, L'Esprit. Having studied French in school, she fluently pronounces the word "le spree" and knows it means "the spirit." While innocently pursuing her passion, unearthly events torment Libby. Lights flicker, eerie shadows glide, and the open door of the abandoned elevator menacingly beckons. Libby struggles between her love for her new studio and the fear that someone or something might be out to get her. When a legendary statue resembling her ballet idol mysteriously appears, it opens a portal to the past exposing Libby to L'Esprit's timeless love story and turbulent past. At last, relying on faith and courage, Libby witnesses the shocking yet inspirational truth about L'Esprit's most tragic night, but who will believe her? The Legend of L'Esprit is a novel of paranormal, romance, and mystery and is appropriate for tweens, teens, and dance lovers of any age. The book includes an educational ballet glossary and each chapter begins with a dance term and definition that subtly relates to the adventure about to unfold. You can learn more about the Dance Legacy Series and the authors, Doris Greenberg and Pandre' Shandley at www.DancersatHeart.com.