Growing up in the Southeast Washington, D.C., projects with a drug dealer for a father usually doesn't promise a bright future. But Curtis Wilson has prevailed through talent, sheer determination, and the loving support of his father's girlfriend, Larissa. Now at unimagined heights in the classical music world, Curtis has even soloed with the New York Philharmonic. He is on the brink of a phenomenal career.
Then everything falls to pieces. His father, Zippy, turns state's evidence on his old bosses, and the family must enter the witness protection program if they want to survive. This means Curtis must give up the very thing he loves most: sharing his music with the world.
When Zippy's old bosses prove too elusive for law enforcement, Curtis, Zippy, and Larissa realize that their only chance for survival lies in taking on the criminals themselves. But will it be enough to save Curtis and his family?
~
I loved Brendan Slocumb's first two novels, The Violin Conspiracy and Symphony of Secrets, and although I did have a few problems with this latest, I still found The Dark Maestro an enjoyable read. Slocumb's love of music shines through the pages of all three books. He can actually make me feel the music as Curtis Wilson plays his cello. I feel Curtis's passion and dedication, and I want him to achieve his dreams.
The three main characters-- Curtis, his father Zippy, and Zippy's girlfriend, Larissa-- are vivid. As a single father, all Zippy has ever wanted is to do what's best for the son he loves so much. It almost breaks your heart when almost every single thing Zippy does is wrong. Fortunately, Zippy's girlfriend, Larissa, is loving, smart, and supportive. If not for her, Curtis and Zippy wouldn't have a chance.
I have to admit that I did become exasperated with Curtis as he continually fought against his life in witness protection. His choices were almost always the exact opposite of what law enforcement told him, and the consequences were never pleasant. Then I put myself in Curtis's shoes. What if I were put in witness protection? What if law enforcement told me I could never pick up another book, enter another bookstore, review another book on my blog? I had to be honest. Like Curtis, I would be trying to find ways around those rules. There's no way I could completely divorce myself from books. Once I realized that, Curtis and I got along much better.
When the three get tired of law enforcement being unable to bring down Zippy's old bosses, they decide they're going to have to do it themselves, and how they do it is quite inventive. Of course, their plans unravel a bit, and I couldn't buy in completely to the ending, but I did enjoy the journey. And-- if you're the type of reader who skips the Author's Note at the back of the books you read, I'd advise against it this time. I highly recommend Brendan Slocumb's music-drenched thrillers.
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
eISBN: 9780593687628
Knopf Doubleday © 2025
eBook, 416 pages
Standalone Thriller
Rating: B+
Source: Net Galley
I know just what you mean, Cathy. When you think about what it would mean to give up what you love most, it's so very hard, isn't it? I can understand Curtis' view, even though I've not read the book. And a music-themed book appeals a lot, as I do love music. I can see why you liked this one a lot.
ReplyDelete