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disguisedposer's review against another edition
hopeful
mysterious
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Racial slurs, Slavery, and Police brutality
Minor: Torture, Physical abuse, Gore, Violence, and Murder
pershie13's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
It took me a long time to finally finish this book while completing my last semester of undergrad, but this book turned out fantastic! The book follows the story of violinist Ray McMillan, who received no formal training on his instrument until he reached college. Mentored by his violin professor Dr. Janice Stevens, Ray becomes one of the best at his craft. Along with following his journey as a violinist, the story also places an emphasis on the instrument he plays, a Stradivarius violin passed down to him by his grandmother. The story turns into a sort of mystery/thriller as we find out in the opening pages that this violin has been stolen and requires a multi-million dollar ransom for its return. This story covers many of the issues that Black people often face in the field of classical music, as well as the themes of hard work, family, and mentorship. The story definitely took unexpected turns, and I questioned to the very end what was going to happen to Ray, his violin, and his musical career. The book was fantastic, and I enjoyed every twist and turn!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Racial slurs, Gore, Death, Injury/Injury detail, Racism, Slavery, and Torture
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Gaslighting, Police brutality, Hate crime, and Cursing
Minor: Classism, Emotional abuse, Rape, Sexual content, and Grief
professional_grandma's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This book left me speechless. How this author was able to describe music and give a window into the passion he holds for it is beyond me. This story felt musical in the style of writing and it was astounding. The story itself was hard to read because of the blatant racism faced by the main character, but it was necessary to experience second-hand what a Black musician faces in the classical realm. I am so grateful to have read this book and opened my perspective to a struggle I previously didn’t know existed. This was truly an amazing book and even the author’s note was brilliantly written. I now want to recommend this to anyone and everyone.
And holy crap! That ending! The final line made me nearly cry. It was such a beautiful way to finish the story, yet so sad. And finding out Nicole was the one to steal the violin!! Holy cow! These twists were done so freaking well.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Racial slurs, and Classism
Moderate: Hate crime, Physical abuse, Police brutality, Terminal illness, Gore, and Slavery
Minor: Rape and Death
arthur_ant18's review
emotional
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Police brutality and Racism
Moderate: Racial slurs and Slavery
Minor: Cursing, Death, and Gore
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