The Dark Maestro by Brendan SlocumbMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Curtis Wilson, his father Zippy, and surrogate mother Larissa live in the Washington DC projects. Curtis receives a cello through a charitable organization when he is 5 years old, and it changes his life. He immerses himself into practicing his cello, attends Julliard, and his goal is to become a cello soloist with major orchestras. He is so close to achieving his goal when his family's life comes crashing down due to his father's drug dealing. His life is forever changed and his family is on the run.
I have read both of Brendan Slocumb's other books and love how they are infused with classical music and musicians, a theme which is continued in this book. In addition, this novel brings in superheros, comics and animated videos, juxtaposing them with both classical music and rap. The chapters alternate between the three main characters - Curtis, Zippy and Larissa - each bringing their own point of view and enhancing the development of each character. The themes of class struggle, the importance of family, commitment, haves and have-nots, goals and success are all addressed. Overall, quite a page-turner!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday for an advanced reader copy to review in exchange for an honest opinion. This book will be published May 13, 2025.
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