I’m a big fan of Brendan Slocumb. I thoroughly enjoyed reading his previous books The Violin Conspiracy and Symphony of Secrets. I was super excited to have the opportunity to read his latest book Dark Maestro, and I really loved listening to the curated classical music playlist that the author suggested while I read the book. Dark Maestro is a totally immersive, engaging, mesmerizing page-turner. I like when writers give their readers a glimpse into their own lives, and the things they really enjoy. Brendan Slocumb blends two of his passions music and comics into his third classical music thriller. Dark Maestro had me hooked from the very first chapter, and kept me captivated until the very last page. A huge thank you to Doubleday Books, the author and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy of the book.

The premise of this propulsive thriller follows Curtis Wilson a cello prodigy who is growing up in the Southeast rough D. C. projects with his low-level drug dealing father Zippy, and his father’s girlfriend, Larissa. Both of them love and care for Curtis. They want to what’s best for him, but they also lead a lifestyle that’s very detrimental. Curtis is fervent about playing the cello, and has natural music ability. Through sheer determination, talent, along with support from Larissa, who also introduces Curtis to the world of comic superheroes during this time, he eventually is able to overcome his tough circumstances to make it into Juilliard where he excels to reach incredible heights in the classical musical world.

However, life can have an unexpected way of derailing the progress of success. And one day just after his solo performance with the New York Philharmonic Curtis’s life takes a drastic turn. His father, Zippy, turns state evidence for the FBI incriminating the drug bosses he worked for. Now the family must enter into witness protection — including Curtis, ending his extraordinary musical rise. But when the drug cartel bosses prove to be too powerful to take down. Zippy, Larissa and Curtis must come up new identities and with a plan of survival. They will have to combine all of their abilities — including Curtis’s musical talent if they want to take down the cartel, and stay alive.

Dark Maestro is a fantastic, soul-stirring, highly entertaining story about love, sacrifice and the indomitable resilience of the human spirit. This is a book that should not be missed out on, one to add to the top of your reading list.

Brendan Slocumb has done it again with his latest release, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘔𝘢𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰, a mystery thriller novel that truly hits all the right notes! 🎶

From a young age, Curtis Wilson was extremely passionate about playing the cello, but his life took a dramatic turn with his father Zippy’s “extracurricular activities” forces Curtis, Zippy and Larissa to go on the run and having to enter the witness protection program.

Curtis’s dreams of continuing his career as a renowned cellist have come to an abrupt halt for the foreseeable future.

During this time Curtis, along with the help of Larissa and Zippy, develop a online comic book starring The Dark Maestro who is battling the same issues that Curtis and his family are dealing with in real time.

The plot of this novel is expertly orchestrated that it practically demands a standing ovation by the last page. The emotional depth, paired with a crescendo of suspense is perfectly paced and kept me hooked from start to finish.

The author’s note at the end is a must-read that offers incredible context to tie everything together and makes the story really resonate.

Bravo Brendan Slocumn on a job well done with 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘔𝘢𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰! I will read anything that this author puts out.

many thx to @prhaudio for the free audiobook! ronald peet’s audiobook narration brings curtis’s voice to life with warmth and emotion.

the dark maestro is a gripping story about curtis wilson, a young cello prodigy from d.c. whose life is turned upside down when his father—a drug dealer—testifies against a cartel. curtis and his family are forced into witness protection, and he has to leave behind everything he knows, including his music. the story is fast-paced and emotional, blending family drama, danger, and the healing power of art. one unique part of the book is the comic curtis’s family creates—also called the dark maestro—which becomes their way of staying strong through it all. slocumb does a great job showing how music, love, and storytelling can help people survive the hardest things.

🫶🏾— as someone who has taught in tough schools, the beginning of this story hit hard. ms. daniela’s belief in curtis reminded me of the kids i used to fight for every day—the ones who just need someone to say, you’re capable, you’re worth it, and you can go far. 🥹

⚠️: don’t skip the author’s note at the end—it adds powerful insight into what inspired this book and you soon realize how everything comes together perfectly into place.

⭐️ 4.5 stars!!

The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb follows child music prodigy Curtis as he gets his first experiences with music and eventually becomes a cellist despite his criminal minded father. Unfortunately that criminal minded father pulls Curtis into the world of witness protection due to some serious crimes and possible retaliation.

I have enjoyed Slocumb’s previous books- especially The Violin Conspiracy. This one started off strong but got extremely unrealistic for me in the second half. I always enjoy a mystery and superhero stuff, but added to the realistic beginning it wasn’t a great second half for me. I love the musical connections in Slocumb’s book and will continue to read new ones even though this wasn’t my favorite.

The Dark Maestro is a novel about a cello prodigy, Curtis. who grew up in the hood with a dad who was just trying to do right by him. But when doing right lands Curtis into witness protection to hide from some high-level bad guys...Curtis's dreams of just playing cello seem to be dashed into the ground.

This was the first Brendan Slocumb book I had read although I have both of his other books on my TBR (and even own one!) and I thoroughly enjoyed the way the plot came together. I don't know very much about classical music so much of that went over my head as did the raps written out but I think this would have made an excellent audiobook for those reasons. I especially enjoyed how Slocumb interwove Curtis's love for comic books and music into one storyline and I felt like I really got to know the main character.

As I was reading the novel, I initially felt that some of the characters were acting out of frustration and not seeing the bigger picture. But upon reading the author's note I do think the frustration in today's world makes a lot of sense. There are plenty of frustrating things in this world that we're all angry about, much like the characters in this novel.

Overall, I really enjoyed this novel; it was a gripping and engaging read and I gave it 4.75/5 stars. Thank you to Doubleday Books and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

This is a great book. My first of this Author. Plan to read other books. Excited to meet him in person during book tour.

The Dark Maestro is Brendan Slocumb’s third novel. Since I enjoyed the first two—The Violin Conspiracy and Symphony of Secrets--I dove eagerly into this advanced review copy.
As the publisher’s blurb states, this is the story of Curtis Wilson, a young Black cello prodigy, who beats improbable odds to survive a childhood of poverty in Washington DC’s inner city. His father Zippy is loving, but unreliable—dealing drugs and bringing a parade of women in and out of Curtis’ life. Fortunately, one of the women, Larissa, becomes the boy’s nurturer and motherly replacement. This front half of the story is sadly realistic and touching, and the reader roots for this sweet child whose best friend is his cello, and whose escape from reality is via super-hero comics.
The story arc through Curtis’ success, Zippy’s time in Witness Protection, and Curtis’ use of comics as a solution is inventive, but might seem far-fetched to some. The main characters are well-described and feel very real, so I could envision each one. I love that about Slocumb’s descriptive writing. Curtis especially is so resilient and has such a great heart!
At over 400 pages, the book felt a bit long to me. The Author’s Note reveals why…..it is an intensely personal revelation from the author that touched me deeply, and provided the answer to the question of “why” for this ambitious novel.
Please read it. While it is not exactly like his previous works, it has a unique magic and connection fo this author!

Thank you to Doubleday and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.

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.

Brendan Slocumb's The Dark Maestro is his third music oriented mystery, but this one is very different from the first two. Curtis is a former child-prodigy who, despite difficult circumstances, has risen to the upper echelons of classical music. When the FBI show up, Curtis is forced to contend with his father's past, something he was completely unaware of.

Exciting and with a good twist, The Dark Maestro is the perfect summer thriller with a bit of heart.

This was a slight detour for an author who is making a name for himself with beautifully classical music related POC mysteries. I love that this one added a love of comics to the mix. It reinforced the truth that people are not one dimensional. I love how everything was brought together in his own super hero of The Dark Maestro. But, as for mysteries, I felt like it was one twist short. I also looked and was disappointed to not find a corresponding musical playlist or comic book videos. Maybe those are coming out after the book's release? Either way, I think this book was a great merging of divergent themes: classical music, gang activity, and comics. And, it felt personal. Not that the previous books haven't, but this felt more so. If you read the author's note at the end, you will probably realize that it was. I will continue to look for each and every offering from Mr. Slocumb.

Brendan Slocumb’s third classical music thriller. This is the story of a musical prodigy, Curtis, who grew up in Washington DC. His father, Zippy, who became a parent as a teenager, wants to do best for his son but doesn’t know how and his sometimes-girlfriend, Larissa, who prioritizes Curtis even when not with Zippy. Zippy finds himself moving from drug dealing to much darker illegal business while trying to provide for Curtis and the increasing needs of a prodigy, and all wind up in witness protection.

But you can’t be a famous cellist undercover and the case is not moving closer to being solved.

Is this book completely realistic? No, but I’d argue that is never this case for this type of book. The classical music side of Slocumb’s books always bring a fresh perspective to his books that puts them on my must-read list. A thoroughly enjoyable read with well-rounded characters.

I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story follows Zippy, Curtis and Larissa as Curtis grows older. Larissa has taken the role of Curtis's mother since his real mother walked out on the family. Curtis's story begins when he is the age of five and because of donations, Curtis is given a musical instrument, a cello. It then follows Curtis's development to become a true prodigy. While he is still in grade schol, Zippy, his father has been sent to prison. Curtis then starts slacking off on his grades until he receives a note from his father which makes Curtis feel better. Once Zippy gets out of prison, he gets a new assignment which improves the family's lifestyle. Years go by and Cutis has now progressed and is now a famous performer. All of sudden things change when Zippy is approached by the FBI and as a result they wind up in the Witness Protection because Zippy turns as a witness for the State. Curtis now has to set his ambition aside because they had to go into hiding.

Years go by and there doesn't seem to be any way to solve their problem. They decide that if anything is going to be done, then it is up to them. Follow along as the trio chases down the individuals who the FBI couldn't find. Read the exciting conclusion to learn what happened.

When I first started, I wasn't sure whether I would like it. I can definitely tell you it is well worth reading. Don't miss out!

I did not see that ending coming! This story had me hooked from start to finish—every character, every twist, I was all in. I couldn’t stop trying to piece together how the whole operation worked and who was really pulling the strings. The musical vibes were spot on, and the father-son relationship? Absolutely stole my heart. Brendan Slocumb nailed it with The Dark Maestro!

I am a musician and have really enjoyed Brendan Slocum’s other music themed books. This book was quite different from the last two, and if you read the author’s note at the end I think you will find out why. In this story we have Curtis, a cello prodigy, living in the projects with his drug dealing father. Curtis loves music and is working hard to make a name for himself and get out of the life, but so many issues keep holding him back. Once his dad’s boss takes an interest in him and starts to help fund his journey, he takes off and starts to make a name for himself. But then the FBI shows up at a concert forcing him into witness protection because his dad’s choices have caught up with the family. At that point in the book, things start to focus less on music and more on comic books and a superhero they create- The Dark Maestro. Then life start to imitate their art. This was an unbelievable, but interesting story. Definitely read the author’s note at the end. I received an ARC, and this is my honest review.

**Thank you to Doubleday Books for this free digital review copy.**

"The Dark Maestro" was a quick and engaging read, but it was my least favorite of Slocumb's novels so far. While the writing was excellent as always and the creativity of describing comic book panels within the story felt novel, the characters and the story itself didn't compel me as much as I hoped.

Curtis's life is a mess — though it isn't his fault at all — and that ate at me throughout the whole book. The direction that things ended up going for him made me sad and frustrated, and then I think it was supposed to be a happy ending but it felt strangely unfinished.

I did really enjoy the comic book element and the character of the Dark Maestro. I thought the descriptions of the panels were very well done, and it was easy to picture what the comic book would look like, even without having illustrations.

Curtis is a cello prodigy from the bad part of town. All he wants to do is play the cello but, as the son of his loving but criminal father, he has enemies through no fault of his own. When his life spirals out of control, Curtis must cope by looking to his comic book alter ego, Dark Maestro.

This is my third novel by Brendan Slocumb and I was thrilled to get an early galley. It was so easy to sympathize with Curtis through his trials and tribulations. In spite of his disadvantage, he had just enough support to turn his incredible raw talent into success in the symphony world. But his plans were derailed by his father’s mistakes. I was so frustrated on Curtis’ behalf at one point that I had to walk away from the book for a day to cool off. But I was rooting for Curtis throughout his story

Told in first person via multiple perspectives, Slocumb did a great job creating this compelling story. My main complaint is that the secret activities undertaken by Curtis and his parents in the second half of the novel felt ridiculously unbelievable. However, despite this, I really enjoyed this novel. I love the way Slocumb’s novels feature music and his abundant creativity.

Thank you to NetGalley, Brendan Slocumb, and Doubleday Books for giving me the opportunity to read Dark Maestro before its release date

I’ve been a fan of Brendan Slocumb’s work since I read The Violin Conspiracy two years ago. He writes with such passion and heart which makes his latest book, The Dark Maestro, a special story. Brendon’s love for music and superheroes is in full force in this adventurous novel showcasing the life of a family caught up in illicit crimes.

I loved the way the story brought awareness to the darker side of organ donation while showing how the family worked together to find expressive outlets in light of their immense sacrifice. The addition of a super-hero element was an imaginative spin to the plot which allowed for an entertaining suspension of belief. Be sure to read the author’s note for inspirational insight! 4.5 rounded up

The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb is a gripping musical thriller that intertwines the world of classical music with high-stakes crime and family loyalty. I knew I would enjoy this novel as much as the Violin Conspiracy.

Set to be released on May 13, 2025, the novel follows Curtis Wilson, a cello prodigy from Southeast D.C., who rises from a challenging upbringing to perform with the New York Philharmonic. His life takes a dramatic turn when his father, Zippy, turns state's evidence against a dangerous criminal organization, forcing the family into witness protection. Stripped of his ability to perform, Curtis must find new ways to fight back against those who threaten his family.
The Dark Maestro promises to be a standout in Slocumb's repertoire, offering a compelling mix of music, crime, and personal redemption. With its anticipated release on May 13, 2025, it is poised to captivate readers seeking a novel that combines intellectual intrigue with heartfelt storytelling.

Terrific storytelling and incredibly likable characters make this a terrific read even when it becomes to be honest, quite implausible. Curtis is a genius on the cello. His father Zippy is a low level drug dealer who cycles through women after Larissa leaves him. It's Zippy that changes Curtis's life and Larissa, who comes back, who keeps him sane. She's his stalwart supporter, the one who introduces him to superheroes, and the one who helps him create the Dark Maestro at a time when the family has lost it all and is in Witsec. That Zippy and Larissa figure out how to nail the bad guys who upended their lives, that they identify and track an organ selling operation is surprising but it totally works. I liked this for the DC atmospherics, for Curtis, and most of all for Larissa, who is a force of nature. This sent me off to find the music Curtis played. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a page turner that I thoroughly enjoyed but find hard to review without spoilers-and readers deserve to experience this without them. Highly recommend.

Another novel by Brendan Slocumb! Curtis is a cellist, child prodigy with a background he can’t escape. There are good people in his life, but he just can’t seem to get away from his dad‘s life as a gangster in Washington DC. This is a combination of a thriller and coming of age story. I love how Slocumb weaves music into all of his fiction. Thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for the advanced, digital copy. Definitely five stars!