I have not read the novels - This opinion solely based on the show
Overall the show was an amazing plot the dancing was art, but some critiques as a viewer are that the supposed main character Nevaeh was poorly characterized, she would make decisions that hurt more than did good. She was never really into ballet when she was in the studio like assumed she would be just as competitive for her staying at her spot as she presented every other scene. *spoiler* she destroyed chances of her even getting an opportunity to go to another ballet school because Orwen told her he loved her, which was a ridiculous reason to lose all of those opportunities. even her relationship with Nabil was really good at the beginning and there was no indication of her backing out because of past relationships. Bette was the better-devopled character we saw her grow we saw her at her worst and could connect with her.
The show was very rushed in relationships, it felt like I missed episodes even though I binged it. Nevaeh needed a lot more work and its a shame because to have a black woman as a "lead" and her character be trash is disappointing.
not sure if second season will even happen but if it does please work on her!!! and slow stuff down a bit.