The Dark Maestro by Bendan Slocumb
A Review By: AT
His cello made him famous. His father made him a target.
“In this perfectly crafted thriller, Slocumb acts as the master conductor, bringing together a twisty plot and gorgeously wrought characters.” —The Boston Globe
Curtis Wilson is a cello prodigy, growing up in the Southeast D.C. projects with a drug dealer for a father. But through determination and talent, and the loving support of his father’s girlfriend, Larissa, Curtis claws his way out of his challenging circumstances and rises to unimagined heights in the classical music world—even soloing with the New York Philharmonic.
And then, suddenly, his life disintegrates. His father, Zippy, turns state’s evidence, implicating his old bosses. Now the family—Curtis included—must enter the witness protection program if they want to survive. This means Curtis must give up the very thing he loves the most: sharing his extraordinary music with the world. When Zippy’s bosses prove too elusive for law enforcement, Curtis, Zippy, and Larissa realize that their only chance of survival is to take on the criminals themselves. They must create new identities and draw on their unique talents, including Curtis’s musical ability, to go after the people who want them dead. But will it be enough to save Curtis and his family?
A propulsive and moving story about sacrifice, loyalty, and the indomitable human spirit, The Dark Maestro is Brendan Slocumb at the height of his powers.
Review Notes:
Audio Book Publication Year: 2025
An installment in a Series? No
Narrator (s): Ronald Peet
Slocumb is one of my favorite authors, so I was eagerly anticipating his newest novel, The Dark Maestro. As per usual, he did not disappoint!
Maestro follows Curtis Wilson, a young music prodigy, as he navigates life, the world of elite musicians, and a less than humble upbringing. He perseveres despite all of his obstacles, gaining notoriety in the world of classical music, and just as his star is about to launch into the stratosphere, his father's sins arrive to haunt his entire family and demolish his world.
Slocumb excels at building tension and spinning tales that keep you on the edge of your seat while hoping for a good outcome. Anxiety, empathy, heartbreak, and elation are just a few of the emotions I experienced, and I loved every minute of this story.
Ronald Peet does well with the narration. As with any new-to-me narrator, it took a moment for me to become accustomed to his storytelling style and cadence, but he delivered the tale beautifully.
Reading Recommendation? Yes!
Rating: 5 (I need another one!)
Content Warnings? Human or animal loss, Physical abuse/violence
