The cover caught my attention: red, with an overturned, spike-heeled shoe, and the title Rhapsody in Red captured below. It was obviously a mystery, as a matter of fact, “A Preston Barclay Mystery.”
I bought the book, asked Donn Taylor to autograph it at the ACFW Conference, and turned the last page this morning.
I’m an eclectic reader, but only of well crafted works that provoke a smile—or sometimes tears. If the author can surprise a chortle, I’m thrilled. Poorly written work – or poorly edited work – will often end up in my trash can.
I don’t enjoy sweet romance or historical fiction – unless it’s the sort Georgette Heyer used to write: huge tomes that would make many readers shudder at their sheer bulk. But a good story, written with humor, perhaps a comedy of manners? Yes, sir.
Donn Taylor writes with wit and sophistication. Imagine his hero: a widowered history professor who hears music in his head and who must join with a wiccan professor of comparative religion to find a murderer. An interesting premise, yes, but it’s the music that caught my attention. Preston hears Samuel Barber as the story opens, Chopin later. The music speeds and slows, warns and soothes. With a gun pointed his way, Pres says, “…my cerebral musicians played the feathery violin passages Mendelssohn composed to represent Shakespeare’s fairies. They provided no consolation.”
Though my musical education can’t compare to Donn’s, I know enough to imagine the sounds evoked. And then there’s the use of language. The professor pokes fun and corrects bad grammar with an elegant ease that made me smile. Moody published the book. I can’t wait to read its sequel.
Good for you, Donn.
Normandie, you've certainly whet my appetite for "Rhapsody in Red"! Thanks for the review. Way to go, Donn! Blessings,Deb
Great review, Normandie! I'll have to get hold of it! I am a mystery writer. : )'Course mine are for a bit younger age. Good for Donn writing such a totally unique novel!
I had the privilege of meeting not only Donn, but also his lovely wife Mildred. What beautiful people, full of love, joy, intelligence, and great humility. May the Lord pour His blessings on them both and bring forth much fruit from their lives.
Thank you, Normandie, both for the review and for the kind personal comments. Mildred and I enjoyed meeting and talking with you. May the Lord bless you and yours now and throughout the coming year.
I'll be happy to accept your prayer for us. Mille grazie!