The Violin Conspiracy

A Novel (Good Morning America Book Club)

By: Brendan Slocumb

Narrated by: JD Jackson, Brendan Slocumb

GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK! • Ray McMillian is a Black classical musician on the rise—undeterred by the pressure and prejudice of the classical music world—when a shocking theft sends him on a desperate quest to recover his great-great-grandfather’s heirloom violin on the eve of the most prestigious musical competition in the world.

“I loved The Violin Conspiracy for exactly the same reasons I loved The Queen’s Gambit: a surprising, beautifully rendered underdog hero I cared about deeply and a fascinating, cutthroat world I knew nothing about—in this case, classical music.” —Chris Bohjalian, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Flight Attendant and Hour of the Witch

Growing up Black in rural North Carolina, Ray McMillian’s life is already mapped out. But Ray has a gift and a dream—he’s determined to become a world-class professional violinist, and nothing will stand in his way. Not his mother, who wants him to stop making such a racket; not the fact that he can’t afford a violin suitable to his talents; not even the racism inherent in the world of classical music.

When he discovers that his beat-up, family fiddle is actually a priceless Stradivarius, all his dreams suddenly seem within reach, and together, Ray and his violin take the world by storm. But on the eve of the renowned and cutthroat Tchaikovsky Competition—the Olympics of classical music—the violin is stolen, a ransom note for five million dollars left in its place. Without it, Ray feels like he's lost a piece of himself. As the competition approaches, Ray must not only reclaim his precious violin, but prove to himself—and the world—that no matter the outcome, there has always been a truly great musician within him.

inspiring

Loved it. It was an easy listen even though it dealt with a heavy topic. Draws you into the mystery.

Wonderful

I truly enjoyed reading and listening to this book. I loved the way you described Jay’s love for music and his relationships. I learned a lot about continuous persecution and loved how he responded. It was one of the best books I listened to this year. Thank you.

Powerful piece of art

This was so very good! Beautifully written and so very real. If people don't understand race and racism in this country and world, this story depicts it in the most authentic way. Oh, and there's a super thrilling mystery that will have you guessing to the very end. So many emotions ran through me as I listened to the wonderful narrator guide us through this tale... Anger at so many things, but especially at Ray's evil mother. That one detail is never addressed and left me wondering why this woman was so very hateful, despite her own mother being a living breathing saint. That kind of hatred of one's own offspring isn't natural! Overall, this was both delightful and depressing, a glimpse of the very worst in people but also a reminder of the amazing beauty in this world. I found myself intrigued by the music and often paused the story to google the various musical pieces that were mentioned. What an amazing story! Kudos to the author for his heartfelt thoughts in the epilogue. Don't be surprised if you fall in love with this book! I certainly did.

highly recommend

The best read I have experienced in a long time. i was so excited to continue reading and did not want the book to end.

Loved

I loved this book so much because it is a wonderful story. The narrarator is amazing!