Review: Likable H/H Amidst a Vividly Detailed World of Classical Music
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 13, 2013
Aubrie Dionne plunges readers into the vividly cutthroat world of classical music in Playing the Maestro.  For flutist Melody, she's done with dating musicians.  After her recent break-up with fellow symphony worker, Blake, her job seems in jeopardy from his nefarious machinations so the last thing she wants to do is act on her growing attraction to the new conductor, Wolf.  But the more she sees of him and his numerous acts of kindness the more caught up in his life she becomes and the idea of a future together takes root.  It's a bumpy ride to their HEA though as a woman from his past almost destroys the trust and love forming between them.  Melody is a likable character who's been burned by relationships before and is very doubtful of love's existence.  She easily jumps to conclusions and assumes the worst whenever Wolf's honesty is in doubt.  While these feelings of doubt are understandable they make it difficult to truly believe in this relationship at times.Wolf has come to America to escape an ex who stole not only his heart but also his life savings.  He too is cautious in wanting to start another relationship and with Melody the spitting image of his ex they definitely start off on the wrong foot.  But Wolf finds it difficult to keep his true self hidden and slowly lets Melody into his life, keeping the big issue of his ex a secret until her appearance creates all sorts of unwanted chaos that he has to struggle to set right.  He completely makes amends in a very masterful and vocal way at the end though, so all is easily forgiven.  Wolf is exotically sexy with his occasional uses of German speech.  He's caring and honorable which made him easy to fall for.The story brings the world of classical music/symphonies alive with its vivid depictions of the struggles of musicians, the cutthroat nature to become a star, and the passions that this kind of music inspires.  The story does feel a bit draggy though.  The writing pace is laid back which is reflected in the romance that remains very sweet and progresses very slowly.  There's sexual tension present but it never fully explodes into a hot and steamy encounter.  This doesn't make the romance any less satisfying though as they're an immensely cute couple that have much in common.  Add in a cast of memorable characters and you end up with a satisfying story that once again demonstrates Ms. Dionne's writing talent.