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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
tisdianes's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
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
3.5
It’s impossible to find some type of balance after reading Brendan Slocumb’s 2022 debut novel The Violin Conspiracy. A symphonically structured story that takes readers on an emotional journey through the eyes of a black classical musician, a male violinist that’s hell-bent on overcoming extremely challenging obstacles time and time again.
I’d suggest this to be more of a medium to slow paced Family Saga Mystery— rather than a Thriller. It’s authentic and historically rich, as well as educational. A unique book written for all levels from the simple-minded music lovers to the well-trained professionals.
There are numerous hard-hitting incidents that are no doubt impactful. I did find a couple to be a little over-the-top, though. However, I do appreciate the point of view and it being semi-autobiographical. Also, the constant profanity was off-putting and unexpected.
♟I do agree with the notion that The Violin Conspiracy is to classical music what The Queen’s Gambit is to chess.
I’d suggest this to be more of a medium to slow paced Family Saga Mystery— rather than a Thriller. It’s authentic and historically rich, as well as educational. A unique book written for all levels from the simple-minded music lovers to the well-trained professionals.
There are numerous hard-hitting incidents that are no doubt impactful. I did find a couple to be a little over-the-top, though. However, I do appreciate the point of view and it being semi-autobiographical. Also, the constant profanity was off-putting and unexpected.
♟I do agree with the notion that The Violin Conspiracy is to classical music what The Queen’s Gambit is to chess.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Racial slurs, and Hate crime
Moderate: Cursing
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