Title: Taxi Driver and Ballerina
Author: Kenny Lee
Publisher: Author House
ISBN: 9780759688451
Pages: 192
Genre: Romance
Reviewed by: Anita Lock
Hollywood Book Review
Author Kenny Lee spins a Romeo-and-Juliet tale in his romantic novel, Taxi Driver and Ballerina.
Joe Sanders consistently struggles to keep afloat working as a San Francisco taxi driver. Even though his philosophy degree doesn’t land him a better-paying job, he still has the opportunity to study the people he transports during the day and observe the flow of transients that pass through the Residence Club—the boarding house where he resides. It’s during one of his casual observations that he meets newcomer Debbie Mulligan. One look at Debbie and he is immediately smitten.
Debbie is a gorgeous Australian ballerina who comes from affluent means. She hopes to attain prima ballerina status during her time at the San Francisco Ballet Company. Although Debbie is earmarked to marry Arnold McMurry, a wealthy Australian man, she begins to rethink her marriage plans when she falls for Joe. A situation arises, and Debbie returns home only for her mother to bombard her with wedding plans soon after her arrival. Obviously, her heart’s not in it since all she can think about is Joe and her dream of marrying him instead.
As with all contemporary Romeo-and-Juliet versions, tragedy inevitably strikes, but how and when always differ. Taxi Driver and Ballerina is unique as author Kenny Lee combines an old tale with new components replete with irony. For instances, the backdrop (complete with rich descriptions) centers on two extreme locations: San Francisco, California and Melbourne, Australia; and though there are no outstanding issues addressed—like race or social standing—it is clear that the lovers’ come from vastly different economic situations.
Lee keeps to a tight cast. Each character, whether principal or supporting, is well-defined. The supporting cast functions as foils to help develop Joe’s and Debbie’s roles. Lee’s writing style is crisp and straightforward with minimal cursing. The narrative consistently flows as romance builds between Joe and Debbie and short chapters alternate between situations in San Francisco and Melbourne. Sexual scenes are muted, but highly suggested.
While presenting clichéd aspects, Lee gently weaves in elements of surprise, leaving readers wondering as to how the story will unfold and what will ultimately become of the lovers. One thing for certain is that there is enough tension to earmark Taxi Driver and Ballerina a page-turner. Readers can also determine what they make of the ending as Lee closes his near novella-based story on a peculiar note.
Taxi Driver and Ballerina is a perfect read for heartfelt love story enthusiasts.