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Maestro
For some, first love is a fleeting spark heralding the greater loves to come. For others, first love is the greatest love. The only love.
When a music audition at the world-renowned LaGuardia Arts high school brings together two thirteen-year-olds, unassuming Aurelia Ramirez Preston and confident Chadwick David, the serendipitous encounter becomes an unbreakable friendship.
A friendship develops into an unyielding love.
A love spanning decades and continents.
With New York City as their playground, best friends Chad and Aurelia navigate the turbulence of adolescence. They blossom, and so does their love. An awkward first date turns into a night of intoxicating kisses and together, they lose their innocence.
Years later, Chad is "Maestro," the tattooed virtuoso, the James Dean of classical music.
And Aurelia is an accomplished cellist. His muse. The enduring love behind his greatness.
But when the maestro falters, even for a moment, the most beautiful symphony can spiral into unrelenting chaos. And the greatest of loves can become the most tragic heartbreak.
Maestro is a symphony of words, four movements filled with longing, secrets, betrayal, and the grace of forgiveness.
When a music audition at the world-renowned LaGuardia Arts high school brings together two thirteen-year-olds, unassuming Aurelia Ramirez Preston and confident Chadwick David, the serendipitous encounter becomes an unbreakable friendship.
A friendship develops into an unyielding love.
A love spanning decades and continents.
With New York City as their playground, best friends Chad and Aurelia navigate the turbulence of adolescence. They blossom, and so does their love. An awkward first date turns into a night of intoxicating kisses and together, they lose their innocence.
Years later, Chad is "Maestro," the tattooed virtuoso, the James Dean of classical music.
And Aurelia is an accomplished cellist. His muse. The enduring love behind his greatness.
But when the maestro falters, even for a moment, the most beautiful symphony can spiral into unrelenting chaos. And the greatest of loves can become the most tragic heartbreak.
Maestro is a symphony of words, four movements filled with longing, secrets, betrayal, and the grace of forgiveness.
775 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2022
About the author
Auden Dar
7 books1,091 followersA former A&R music executive, Auden Dar aspires to create the perfectly imperfect book boyfriend. Besides her family and erotic romance, Auden's other passions include music, foreign films, stalking bulldogs, and learning how to cook like Nigella Lawson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 837 reviews
November 16, 2022
LIVE: https://amzn.to/3C6g1wq
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Maestro An epic saga about the legendary tatted conductor, violinist & composer Chad David & the girl who loved him through it all.
Maestro is a journey of two musical prodigies Chadwick and Aurelia from adolescents through all their firsts and beyond. Set in New York their story spans decades as these two star-crossed lovers take the world by storm while being struck by life’s set-backs, betrayals & could-have-beens.
Story is driven by the legend-in-the-making maestro Chad David as he grows into the man he was destined to become. Center of his universe, yet often on the outside looking in, is his Aurelia and her unwavering love for her Chad.
Partially based on a true story, lyrically told I wept for the years lost, dreams crushed, but most of all for the man caught behind the legend.
***
Hero: ★★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | HIGH FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Beta copies provided to me by author Auden Dar in exchange for an honest review.
LIVE: https://amzn.to/3C6g1wq
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Maestro An epic saga about the legendary tatted conductor, violinist & composer Chad David & the girl who loved him through it all.
“For some, a first love is a fleeting spark echoing the greater loves to come. For others, a first love is the only love. The greatest love.”
Maestro is a journey of two musical prodigies Chadwick and Aurelia from adolescents through all their firsts and beyond. Set in New York their story spans decades as these two star-crossed lovers take the world by storm while being struck by life’s set-backs, betrayals & could-have-beens.
Story is driven by the legend-in-the-making maestro Chad David as he grows into the man he was destined to become. Center of his universe, yet often on the outside looking in, is his Aurelia and her unwavering love for her Chad.
Partially based on a true story, lyrically told I wept for the years lost, dreams crushed, but most of all for the man caught behind the legend.
“The boy I gave all my firsts to. The boy who not only captured my heart but also became a master at breaking it.”
***
Hero: ★★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | HIGH FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Beta copies provided to me by author Auden Dar in exchange for an honest review.
LIVE: https://amzn.to/3C6g1wq
December 18, 2022
This has been popping up all over the place!! #Oneclicked and HOLY SHIT this is LONG!! See you christmas time!!
I’m going to need therapy after this book, these two are literally soul mates but so many outside influences kept them apart, I’ve cried, raged, cursed the author, part of me is scared that their HEA eludes them forever, It would make it so much easier if he was an asshole or her a bitch, but these two are so likeable, the sweetest kindest people, who love each other unashamedly. Best friends, to so much more. On again, off again and all the hurt in between.
And finally I finished.
Two days of reading 😓 Goodbye weekend and hello red eyes from crying. This book wrecked me, the author played with my emotions like a yo-yo without a care in the world 😩 it destroyed me, everything this author threw into this book, I felt and that is why it deserves to be one of my top 2022 reads!
I’m going to need therapy after this book, these two are literally soul mates but so many outside influences kept them apart, I’ve cried, raged, cursed the author, part of me is scared that their HEA eludes them forever, It would make it so much easier if he was an asshole or her a bitch, but these two are so likeable, the sweetest kindest people, who love each other unashamedly. Best friends, to so much more. On again, off again and all the hurt in between.
And finally I finished.
Two days of reading 😓 Goodbye weekend and hello red eyes from crying. This book wrecked me, the author played with my emotions like a yo-yo without a care in the world 😩 it destroyed me, everything this author threw into this book, I felt and that is why it deserves to be one of my top 2022 reads!
Shelved as 'do-not-read-cheating'
November 2, 2023SPOILERS
.
.
.
.
The H sleeps with OW when he thinks the h is with OM. She wasn’t
The OW ends up pregnant. He marries OW because she threatens to have an abortion. Idiot H should’ve had a paternity test done 🤦🏻♀️
The h attends H and OW’s wedding. Heartbroken of course
Years pass. The h is officially with OM. The H and OW never share a bed anymore but he sleeps with other women
H finds out the kid isn’t his 🤦🏻♀️ and the H and h reconnect
More spoilers in the comments of Jena’s review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
.
.
.
.
The H sleeps with OW when he thinks the h is with OM. She wasn’t
The OW ends up pregnant. He marries OW because she threatens to have an abortion. Idiot H should’ve had a paternity test done 🤦🏻♀️
The h attends H and OW’s wedding. Heartbroken of course
Years pass. The h is officially with OM. The H and OW never share a bed anymore but he sleeps with other women
H finds out the kid isn’t his 🤦🏻♀️ and the H and h reconnect
More spoilers in the comments of Jena’s review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 1, 2023
***** 5 stars *****
Raw, visceral, brutal, overwhelming and beautiful.
Maestro was excruciatingly painful.
I honestly think it was too much. Too much angst. But it's the most compelling and moving love story I've read this year after The Heart Rate of a Mouse.
So, I'm rating this book with my gut, even thinking the author overdosed on the angst.
Five stars:
for the outstanding musical aspect,
for character development in general,
for the tears I shed,
and for the agony it put me through in the last 48 hours.
About the cover:
I can't stand this cover now that I've read this book. It's deceiving, making readers think this is the usual ordinary #smut#lovestory. Sadly, the pretty face/nice chest don't give the story enough credit or justice.
Not for the faint-hearted. I also recommend reading spoilers to avoid disappointments.
Shelved as 'avoid'
December 15, 2022Avoid. Cheating.
Esther had spoilers, read the comments.
- just read that H married someone else.Not for me.
Esther had spoilers, read the comments.
- just read that H married someone else.Not for me.
November 16, 2022
The Maestro is finally here!!! This is one of the most stunningly beautiful books I’ve ever read. It’s an epic tale of first love that spans decades. I was pulled in from the beginning and soon it was as though I were experiencing all the angst and heartache that these characters experienced.
There is no way to break this book down and I’m struggling to review it because I cannot find the words to express myself. This is often the case when a book moves me as much as this one has. Aurelia and Chad own my heart and reading their story with all their struggles, both individually, as friends, and then as a couple, had me yelling, cheering and crying.
This author creates a stunning story with words that flow in such a rich melody that I felt them move through me even as the music of the story moves. Each of the characters within this book are well developed and help carry the storyline that runs throughout years. Be warned that this has a true to life feel, so you won’t find it filled with hearts and flowers. What you will find is a hero and heroine who are sworn to be there for each other despite what the world has served up for them.
This book has imprinted itself on my heart to the point I will remember the feel of this long after the last page is turned. I highly recommend this if you love stories filled with emotion, sizzling heat, and heart breaking angst.
Mostly heroine POV with a few from the hero
Message me if you need safety and/or trigger warnings
There is no way to break this book down and I’m struggling to review it because I cannot find the words to express myself. This is often the case when a book moves me as much as this one has. Aurelia and Chad own my heart and reading their story with all their struggles, both individually, as friends, and then as a couple, had me yelling, cheering and crying.
This author creates a stunning story with words that flow in such a rich melody that I felt them move through me even as the music of the story moves. Each of the characters within this book are well developed and help carry the storyline that runs throughout years. Be warned that this has a true to life feel, so you won’t find it filled with hearts and flowers. What you will find is a hero and heroine who are sworn to be there for each other despite what the world has served up for them.
This book has imprinted itself on my heart to the point I will remember the feel of this long after the last page is turned. I highly recommend this if you love stories filled with emotion, sizzling heat, and heart breaking angst.
Mostly heroine POV with a few from the hero
Message me if you need safety and/or trigger warnings
March 27, 2024
My first book by this author, and I just LOVED the angst! It's a frustrating ride for SURE but so worth it. I felt like this was a very character-rich story and I loved getting sucked up in it. IT'S A THICC BOY. Be prepared for a slow, torturous journey. Great for fans of right person, wrong time or love that hurts a little before it feels good. :)
November 27, 2022
Coming from a culture which breathes music, produces more music than the entire world combined, and being a hardcore classical Indian music lover, this book holds a special meaning to me. from the first moment a child enters the world till it dies, every moment, every occasion is celebrated or mourned in musical sentiments in my culture, so i could identify with this books theme more than everybody else.
"Chadwick David. Music’s Savior. The Maestro. World-renowned Adonis of classical music. James Dean with a Stradivarius"
Classical music is like a centrifugal force that pulls everything in its vortex, as a true testament is this ravishing story that will sweep you off your feet, into a parallel universe.
Auden gives us a spellbinding story of love spanning ages, times, years, decades, aches & pains and all.
"A symphony is like a love affair. It’s a journey that takes your heart to many places. "
Carrying the flavour of Great Expectations Chadwick & Aurelia are such star-crossed, ill-fated lovers that are meant for each other, but peripheral forces come to play in their blissful bubble and shatter it to pieces. The whole book goes by for readers picking out one shard at a time from their hearts. These characters become ours, their tears flow from our eyes, their pain and heartbreak wounds us.
"I wonder if falling in love with someone you can never have is better than not falling in love at all. "
Steeped in angsty tears on every paige, the ballad of yearning hearts resonated all throughout. You cannot excape the reverberation, you cannot come out untouched, you cannot ever forgive this story. Successfully combining passion and pain, this is not just a book, it's a bare-footed pilgrimage into the ruins of broken hearts. You will feel every sharp emotion in your soul.
“Yes, I broke your heart. But you broke all of me."
I'm ruined and restored but the painful howls and my tears were totally worth it.
It frustrated me too....SO MUCH!! Aurelia's insecurities were real but I still had this uncontrollable urge to shake her up to break her out of this addiction of Self harm.
Chadwick David is not only a genius musician, he's also perfect hero in every sense of the word.
Priscilla & Agnes saved the day though.
Thank you Auden for crafting this melodious saga. I'm still hungover.....
4.5 stars for unbearable Love Pangs
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"Chadwick David. Music’s Savior. The Maestro. World-renowned Adonis of classical music. James Dean with a Stradivarius"
Classical music is like a centrifugal force that pulls everything in its vortex, as a true testament is this ravishing story that will sweep you off your feet, into a parallel universe.
Auden gives us a spellbinding story of love spanning ages, times, years, decades, aches & pains and all.
"A symphony is like a love affair. It’s a journey that takes your heart to many places. "
Carrying the flavour of Great Expectations Chadwick & Aurelia are such star-crossed, ill-fated lovers that are meant for each other, but peripheral forces come to play in their blissful bubble and shatter it to pieces. The whole book goes by for readers picking out one shard at a time from their hearts. These characters become ours, their tears flow from our eyes, their pain and heartbreak wounds us.
"I wonder if falling in love with someone you can never have is better than not falling in love at all. "
Steeped in angsty tears on every paige, the ballad of yearning hearts resonated all throughout. You cannot excape the reverberation, you cannot come out untouched, you cannot ever forgive this story. Successfully combining passion and pain, this is not just a book, it's a bare-footed pilgrimage into the ruins of broken hearts. You will feel every sharp emotion in your soul.
“Yes, I broke your heart. But you broke all of me."
I'm ruined and restored but the painful howls and my tears were totally worth it.
It frustrated me too....SO MUCH!! Aurelia's insecurities were real but I still had this uncontrollable urge to shake her up to break her out of this addiction of Self harm.
Chadwick David is not only a genius musician, he's also perfect hero in every sense of the word.
Priscilla & Agnes saved the day though.
Thank you Auden for crafting this melodious saga. I'm still hungover.....
4.5 stars for unbearable Love Pangs
Follow me on:
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November 23, 2022
EPICALLY AMAZING. Go read this book! Like right now! Stop what you are doing and run to Amazon, lol.
It's not often a book wows me like this one did, and I already know it will stay with me forever. What an accomplished, well-written, engrossing romance. This book CONSUMED me, to the point I couldn't even sleep because it kept playing out in my head. It was angsty AF and it had me tied into knots and screaming at my Kindle.
I adored the relationship between Chad and Aurelia and I loved how detailed the author was in showing us the progression of their connection from the time they were thirteen into adulthood. It's a thick book but those are the kind I love because they don't skimp on character, plot or romance development. I hated how so many people intervened and conspired to keep them apart. My heart physically hurt for both of them and I wanted to unalive one character so bad. I absolutely adored all the musical references and scenes and it truly brought the book to life for me.
It was a little predictable, but that's only because it's so hard to surprise me anymore. It didn't dent my enjoyment at all. I wish the stuff that came out at the end about Gabriel had been explored more as it's an important topic and I would have liked to see justice done.
But overall I absolutely FLOVED this book. It's as if the author wrote it especially for me! I crave these kind of emotional angsty books. The ones that are magical and speak to my soul. Maestro is that book for me. Definitely in my Top 5 for 2022 and it may even snag the #1 spot.
Exceptional storytelling. Do yourself a favor and check it out. Free in KU right now.
It's not often a book wows me like this one did, and I already know it will stay with me forever. What an accomplished, well-written, engrossing romance. This book CONSUMED me, to the point I couldn't even sleep because it kept playing out in my head. It was angsty AF and it had me tied into knots and screaming at my Kindle.
I adored the relationship between Chad and Aurelia and I loved how detailed the author was in showing us the progression of their connection from the time they were thirteen into adulthood. It's a thick book but those are the kind I love because they don't skimp on character, plot or romance development. I hated how so many people intervened and conspired to keep them apart. My heart physically hurt for both of them and I wanted to unalive one character so bad. I absolutely adored all the musical references and scenes and it truly brought the book to life for me.
It was a little predictable, but that's only because it's so hard to surprise me anymore. It didn't dent my enjoyment at all. I wish the stuff that came out at the end about Gabriel had been explored more as it's an important topic and I would have liked to see justice done.
But overall I absolutely FLOVED this book. It's as if the author wrote it especially for me! I crave these kind of emotional angsty books. The ones that are magical and speak to my soul. Maestro is that book for me. Definitely in my Top 5 for 2022 and it may even snag the #1 spot.
Exceptional storytelling. Do yourself a favor and check it out. Free in KU right now.
August 19, 2023
The only thing that comes on my mind regarding Maestro is: dragging.
I was expecting much more drama. But sadly just a very elaborate detail of every events. Plus the characters seem stuck. There is no major character development.
Miss Dar can make the story much more interesting. Not entirely bad though.
3 stars
I was expecting much more drama. But sadly just a very elaborate detail of every events. Plus the characters seem stuck. There is no major character development.
Miss Dar can make the story much more interesting. Not entirely bad though.
3 stars
December 25, 2022
4.25 stars**
November 16, 2022
2.5 stars
Wasn’t a fan of either the hero or heroine. Too wishy-washy for my tastes. All they did was hurt each other - and other people - along the way to the end of the book. By about 70% I just didn’t care about them or this long drawn out story, and all I could think about was if I were the heroine, I would have cut all ties with the passive hero, and found myself someone who was worth risking the world for 🤷🏻♀️
Wasn’t a fan of either the hero or heroine. Too wishy-washy for my tastes. All they did was hurt each other - and other people - along the way to the end of the book. By about 70% I just didn’t care about them or this long drawn out story, and all I could think about was if I were the heroine, I would have cut all ties with the passive hero, and found myself someone who was worth risking the world for 🤷🏻♀️
November 17, 2022
I’m at a loss for words that incapsulate my feelings about Maestro. To say I’m gobsmacked is putting it lightly. This story is deeply mesmerizing, it is set to a tune all its own.
I loved it immensely not only because of its personal undertones but for its profoundness and soul. A lyrical intricacy of words and music!
Enthralling characters written with depth and insight, Chad and Aurelia not only led me through highs and lows, angst and heartbreak, loss and grief but also through triumphs and success, understanding, sacrifices and forgiveness. Through it ALL there was steadfast love and devotion.
There were side characters that influenced so much of what they went through over the years some by manipulation others by providing steadfast support. They added to the reality of how life is not lived in isolation.
A love story unlike any other I have ever read pulling at my heartstrings and consuming my mind with its melodic soul. Auden Dar has orchestrated a beautifully crafted intricately detailed and moving masterpiece capturing my heart with awe and appreciation.
Not only is this a favorite of 2022 but one of my favorites of all time! Bravo Maestro Auden!
I loved it immensely not only because of its personal undertones but for its profoundness and soul. A lyrical intricacy of words and music!
Enthralling characters written with depth and insight, Chad and Aurelia not only led me through highs and lows, angst and heartbreak, loss and grief but also through triumphs and success, understanding, sacrifices and forgiveness. Through it ALL there was steadfast love and devotion.
There were side characters that influenced so much of what they went through over the years some by manipulation others by providing steadfast support. They added to the reality of how life is not lived in isolation.
A love story unlike any other I have ever read pulling at my heartstrings and consuming my mind with its melodic soul. Auden Dar has orchestrated a beautifully crafted intricately detailed and moving masterpiece capturing my heart with awe and appreciation.
Not only is this a favorite of 2022 but one of my favorites of all time! Bravo Maestro Auden!
May 10, 2023
What an absolute waste of time. What kind of moron marries a girl because she's supposedly pregnant with his baby and doesn't immediately get a paternity test when the baby is born?
THIS DUMPSTER FIRE IS OVER 700 PAGES!
And I endured almost 500 of them before looking up the spoilers and moving on with my life. Bullshit after bullshit reason why the H and h can't be together. Whoever recommended this to me needs punched square in the nose.
THIS DUMPSTER FIRE IS OVER 700 PAGES!
And I endured almost 500 of them before looking up the spoilers and moving on with my life. Bullshit after bullshit reason why the H and h can't be together. Whoever recommended this to me needs punched square in the nose.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2023
ｃｈｅｃｋ ｏｕｔ ｍｙ ｂｏｏｋｓｔａｇｒａｍ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
Chad and Aurelia met as children before an audition at the LaGuardia School of Music and Arts, and immediately became inseparable. They grew up together… played together… and over the years their close friendship developed into a huge love. 🤍
An epic love story spanning three decades, of a man and a woman who love music… and each other… but which love is stronger? 🎻💙
📚 “Aurelia, you’re more than my forever friend. You’re more than my girlfriend. You are and will always be her. The person I love the most. No matter where we are in our lives, you’ll always be her.” 📚
I won't elaborate on the plot, because if I start I won't finish, and this book is damn long (775 pages) 😂
So I'll address my feelings instead…
Auden and I have been friends on social media for years. Although we have never met (yet 🤪) it feels like we've known each other forever. So when her book came out, I was afraid to read it. Afraid I wouldn't like it. So I started reading without telling her and… I'm so glad I gave it a chance, because it's one of those rare books that takes your breath away and leaves you feeling empty once you've finished! 😭🤍🙌
📚 “Even after all these years, you’re still like that Paganini piece. I can spend countless hours trying to decipher each note, construct it, but still find it the most complicated music to master." 📚
It wasn't just a book for me… these were real people I've known since they were kids. my best friends. The plot was so real, passionate and heartbreaking and I was there with them, every step of the way. 💙
The music (NSYNC forever!💪)… the background stories (do you remember where you were on 9/11?😱)… the emotions… the beautiful playlist… the writing was so poetic and unique, no doubt a lot of research and thought were put into every detail. 👑
I keep wondering how exhausted she felt after she finished writing this book…. I wonder if she buried her face in her hands and cried, because that's exactly what I did when I got to the end. 😭😭😭
Auden is a maestro of words!!! 🎻
📚 “You’re as essential as the air I breathe, the water I drink, the music I play. Without you, I’m barely breathing. Barely existing.” 📚
If you like fast-paced books, this is definitely NOT the book for you, It's not a book that should (or can) be read in one sitting. But if you want to experience an amazing journey of a once-in-a-lifetime love, this is THE BOOK for you… just get ready to laugh, cry, pull your hair out and probably throw some objects… because this book has ALL THE FEELS! 🤍💙
▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️▪️▫️
📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
💕 לקריאת הסקירה בעברית, כנסו לבלוג: https://books-romance.com/ 💕
January 6, 2023
One of the most annoying and exhausting books I've read.
First, if I were the editor of the book I would shorten it by half if not more. The plot repeated itself again and again and again. Countless paragraphs and whole chapters of thoughts and self-pity of the heroes, and especially of the heroine.
The words "broken heart" and "love" appeared far too much in the text.
The protagonists themselves are two completely spineless people who let everyone around them manipulatively manage their lives, without making the slightest effort to take the initiative to manage themselves. They believed everyone and everything that was thrown in their direction and let their lives pass as helpless victims.
Lies and half-truths between the protagonists throughout the story define the plot which becomes more and more irritating as the chapters and years pass.
I think that a real relationship is so strong that it conquers everything, that all cards are open in it. If one of the spouses hides and lies in order not to hurt the other party, he simply towers over him, disrespects him and disrespects love and the relationship itself.
At the end of the book, I felt so tired from the troubles that the author decided to burden the story with, so even the happy ending failed to convince me.
First, if I were the editor of the book I would shorten it by half if not more. The plot repeated itself again and again and again. Countless paragraphs and whole chapters of thoughts and self-pity of the heroes, and especially of the heroine.
The words "broken heart" and "love" appeared far too much in the text.
The protagonists themselves are two completely spineless people who let everyone around them manipulatively manage their lives, without making the slightest effort to take the initiative to manage themselves. They believed everyone and everything that was thrown in their direction and let their lives pass as helpless victims.
Lies and half-truths between the protagonists throughout the story define the plot which becomes more and more irritating as the chapters and years pass.
I think that a real relationship is so strong that it conquers everything, that all cards are open in it. If one of the spouses hides and lies in order not to hurt the other party, he simply towers over him, disrespects him and disrespects love and the relationship itself.
At the end of the book, I felt so tired from the troubles that the author decided to burden the story with, so even the happy ending failed to convince me.
June 28, 2023
WOW!.....This book completely gutted me over and over again. I must be a masochist because I enjoyed every minute of it. This book was a literal masterpiece. The emotions that this book puts you through is exactly what I crave. I cried and felt so much, people must think I'm crazy for willingly putting myself through this. I could not get enough. I wanted to keep reading this every minute of my day, but also knowing that meant the story would end was crushing. I loved Aurelia and Chad so much. This is definitely on my list of favorite books ever.
I'd really love that story about the twins and Cosima....
I'd really love that story about the twins and Cosima....
November 7, 2022
From the first line I was ensnared!
The details that only Auden Dar can bring to life in a book are pure magic! The way she weaves a romance can only be described as her being a Maestro herself.
I lost myself in this book.
I found myself in this book.
It’s truly a symphony from the heart.
A standing ovation for Maestro! 5+ stars!
The details that only Auden Dar can bring to life in a book are pure magic! The way she weaves a romance can only be described as her being a Maestro herself.
I lost myself in this book.
I found myself in this book.
It’s truly a symphony from the heart.
A standing ovation for Maestro! 5+ stars!
November 23, 2022
As much as I enjoyed this book, I hate the message that it promotes - that if a woman has a so-called "great love", she should be willing to do anything, put up with anything, even her love choosing another woman over her, just so that she can continue to have him in her life.
July 26, 2023
Incredible!!! I’m speechless.
June 1, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Omfg!! This book destroyed me before ever so slowly piecing me back together just in time to obliterate me again. This book doesn’t fuck you up once, no it does it again and again for almost 600 pages. And it was fucking stunning!!
Aurelia and Chad meet at an audition for the “Fame” arts high school when they’re 13. From minute one they become the bestest of friends. They do everything together and when they’re apart they’re talking on the phone or online.
The chemistry was always there and it left Aurelia desperate to move to the next level but Chad is scared to change the good thing they’ve got. But they’d probably have an easier time changing the tides.
Both of them are musicians, she’s a cellist and he’s no doubt the best violinist of his generation. So the pressure to be the best gives him ultimatums. And that my friend is just the beginning of heartbreak. Not even the tip of the iceberg.
This book spans decades in which they come together before outside forces tear them apart.
You are gonna love and hate these characters equally. You’re also gonna adore their parents, so multidimensional, so loving and giving and just always having their children’s back no matter what. Even if those children don’t realize it.
You’re also gonna hate a few characters with a vengeance. I’m not gonna name names because you need to be on the edge of your seat to really enjoy this one. And trust me, your ass is gonna take a beating.
I felt rather bipolar because I wanted this book’s ending more than I wanted my next breath because I needed their HEA. But I freaking hated letting them go. I want more. I need it!
🌶️🌶️
Omfg!! This book destroyed me before ever so slowly piecing me back together just in time to obliterate me again. This book doesn’t fuck you up once, no it does it again and again for almost 600 pages. And it was fucking stunning!!
Aurelia and Chad meet at an audition for the “Fame” arts high school when they’re 13. From minute one they become the bestest of friends. They do everything together and when they’re apart they’re talking on the phone or online.
The chemistry was always there and it left Aurelia desperate to move to the next level but Chad is scared to change the good thing they’ve got. But they’d probably have an easier time changing the tides.
Both of them are musicians, she’s a cellist and he’s no doubt the best violinist of his generation. So the pressure to be the best gives him ultimatums. And that my friend is just the beginning of heartbreak. Not even the tip of the iceberg.
This book spans decades in which they come together before outside forces tear them apart.
You are gonna love and hate these characters equally. You’re also gonna adore their parents, so multidimensional, so loving and giving and just always having their children’s back no matter what. Even if those children don’t realize it.
You’re also gonna hate a few characters with a vengeance. I’m not gonna name names because you need to be on the edge of your seat to really enjoy this one. And trust me, your ass is gonna take a beating.
I felt rather bipolar because I wanted this book’s ending more than I wanted my next breath because I needed their HEA. But I freaking hated letting them go. I want more. I need it!
October 4, 2022
WOW! Just Wow! Maestro may be the best love story I've ever read. Framed in the metaphor of a symphony, Aurelia and Chadwick along with all the magnificently crafted supporting characters--and every lyrical word-- will stay in my heart forever. If you are looking for a beautifully written, angst-filled epic book that will tear your heart apart and put it back together, read Maestro!!!
September 25, 2022
I am not a good enough writer to summarize my feelings for this book.
Not my normal read, but damn, this book is amazing! I have rarely been brought to tears reading, and I consider myself extremely well read. The angst, the character development, the way that Auden Dar brings me back 20 years-and more is amazing.
I cringed at reading about the same things I did at that age. I laughed at the things that happen in this book, and Ill admit that I did cry.
How does an author write words exactly like a 13 year old- and then write to evoke memories like a 30 year old? I think everyone can enjoy this book, can relate to the characters, and appreciate the tribute to New York city, classical music and of course love.
Anyone giving this book less than 4 stars is just wrong. I challenge anyone to find me a book that draws you in and won’t let you put it down.
Not my normal read, but damn, this book is amazing! I have rarely been brought to tears reading, and I consider myself extremely well read. The angst, the character development, the way that Auden Dar brings me back 20 years-and more is amazing.
I cringed at reading about the same things I did at that age. I laughed at the things that happen in this book, and Ill admit that I did cry.
How does an author write words exactly like a 13 year old- and then write to evoke memories like a 30 year old? I think everyone can enjoy this book, can relate to the characters, and appreciate the tribute to New York city, classical music and of course love.
Anyone giving this book less than 4 stars is just wrong. I challenge anyone to find me a book that draws you in and won’t let you put it down.
May 9, 2023
Another one where I'm in the minority. This was long, and repetitive, and at times so incredibly far fetched. For most of the book I wanted to bang both Chad and Aurelia over the head and hopefully knock some sense into them. But there were also moments of beauty. They were just weighed down with so much of the things that I didn't like unfortunately.
“For some, first love is a fleeting spark heralding the greater loves to come. For others, first love is the only love. The greatest love.”
“For some, first love is a fleeting spark heralding the greater loves to come. For others, first love is the only love. The greatest love.”
January 1, 2023
🤣🤡NOW we’re talking:
“You’re a fool, Aurelia,” she spits out.
“And you’re a fucking lying, conniving bitch,” I say, peering up. “No wonder Gabriel chose me.”
Sera’s hand flies toward my cheek. Somehow, I catch her wrist, twist it over, and slap her face with my other hand. “Sit the fuck down, Sera,” I glare at her, pointedly. “You’re embarrassing yourself.”
Aurelia - heroine
Sera - evil ow
Gabriel - om
“I’m pregnant,” Sera said. I gaped at a woman I barely knew, dumbfounded. “It’s yours, Chadwick,” she said, pulling out a sonogram photo from her bag. “I haven’t been with anyone but you.” I was so fucking drunk. That night with Sera was a blur. We went to dinner after she interviewed me for a follow-up article. We drank.”
…
“Either you marry me or I’ll have no choice but to get an abortion.”
…
“Six years—”
“We can be married only on paper. We’ll continue to live separately. ”
…
“You can’t disclose our arrangement to anyone,” Sera said immediately.”
…
“You’re a fool, Aurelia,” she spits out.
“And you’re a fucking lying, conniving bitch,” I say, peering up. “No wonder Gabriel chose me.”
Sera’s hand flies toward my cheek. Somehow, I catch her wrist, twist it over, and slap her face with my other hand. “Sit the fuck down, Sera,” I glare at her, pointedly. “You’re embarrassing yourself.”
Aurelia - heroine
Sera - evil ow
Gabriel - om
“I’m pregnant,” Sera said. I gaped at a woman I barely knew, dumbfounded. “It’s yours, Chadwick,” she said, pulling out a sonogram photo from her bag. “I haven’t been with anyone but you.” I was so fucking drunk. That night with Sera was a blur. We went to dinner after she interviewed me for a follow-up article. We drank.”
…
“Either you marry me or I’ll have no choice but to get an abortion.”
…
“Six years—”
“We can be married only on paper. We’ll continue to live separately. ”
…
“You can’t disclose our arrangement to anyone,” Sera said immediately.”
…
November 17, 2022
Some stories just hit you so hard out of nowhere that you can do nothing but turn into an emotional mess. Maestro by Auden Dar is one of those stories. Undoubtedly one of the best and most unique and most heartbreaking book I have read in 2022. The author took a wrecking ball to my heart. It was so beautifully written that each chapter claimed a piece of my heart that I am never getting back. Brutal emotions. Unreal level of angst. An epic storyline spanning across years and cities. An unforgettable journey of love, loss, heartbreak, music and finally...happily ever after.
This story follows the journey of Aurelia Preston and Chadwick Davis from the day they meet at thirteen year of age while auditioning for admission in the prestigious LaGuerdia art school. Aurelia was a budding cellist coming from a dysfunctional family while Chad was on way to become the virtuoso..The Maestro of Violin with a heritage to follow. They became best friends. Then lovers. Then heartbreak over and over and over again. And we are going on this tour with them for next almost 30 years.
Auden Dar's writing has a movie like quality. She portrayed every scene..every backdrop...every musical note..every person with such excruciating vivid and impactful details. I felt like the emotions and the scenes are coming alive in front of my eyes. The research and the diversity involved is just astonishing. The story is mostly told from Aurelia's pov. She had a difficult but loving family and she fell fast for the charming musical genius and Chad did the same. But it was not so simple for them. Chad was supposed to go for greatness and sometimes love was not enough. So we follow them through years of heartache, soul piercing pain, musical turning points and all consuming love as they try to find their way back to each other and when they do...they lose it again. The slow burn was delicious and deadly. And range of devastating emotions were so incredible.Chad made me swoon and die and I just wanted to protect him from so much hurt. And Aurelia made me want to wrap her in cotton and hide away. She is extraordinary. The fierce determination to survive and flourish when life just broke her severely..The ability to love unconditionally beyond reason..The strength in her heart to love and lose and love again. Just amazing.
I feel my heart has been just broken so many times but oh god I was living for the pain. The angst was at an epic level. I cannot describe how unique and breathtaking this story is unless you experience it yourself. The love was never in question but they had to battle so many things. I feel I never stopped crying at certain points. It was beautiful and messy and raw and just something you have to feel yourself.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
This story follows the journey of Aurelia Preston and Chadwick Davis from the day they meet at thirteen year of age while auditioning for admission in the prestigious LaGuerdia art school. Aurelia was a budding cellist coming from a dysfunctional family while Chad was on way to become the virtuoso..The Maestro of Violin with a heritage to follow. They became best friends. Then lovers. Then heartbreak over and over and over again. And we are going on this tour with them for next almost 30 years.
Auden Dar's writing has a movie like quality. She portrayed every scene..every backdrop...every musical note..every person with such excruciating vivid and impactful details. I felt like the emotions and the scenes are coming alive in front of my eyes. The research and the diversity involved is just astonishing. The story is mostly told from Aurelia's pov. She had a difficult but loving family and she fell fast for the charming musical genius and Chad did the same. But it was not so simple for them. Chad was supposed to go for greatness and sometimes love was not enough. So we follow them through years of heartache, soul piercing pain, musical turning points and all consuming love as they try to find their way back to each other and when they do...they lose it again. The slow burn was delicious and deadly. And range of devastating emotions were so incredible.Chad made me swoon and die and I just wanted to protect him from so much hurt. And Aurelia made me want to wrap her in cotton and hide away. She is extraordinary. The fierce determination to survive and flourish when life just broke her severely..The ability to love unconditionally beyond reason..The strength in her heart to love and lose and love again. Just amazing.
I feel my heart has been just broken so many times but oh god I was living for the pain. The angst was at an epic level. I cannot describe how unique and breathtaking this story is unless you experience it yourself. The love was never in question but they had to battle so many things. I feel I never stopped crying at certain points. It was beautiful and messy and raw and just something you have to feel yourself.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
November 28, 2022
⭒ Rating: 5 stars
I haven’t been able to put my thoughts into words on this one, so bear with me! But my goodness, it is a MUST read. It is one of those books that is a complete rollercoaster of emotions. These two will take you on a beautiful, emotional journey full of ups and downs but worth every single second.
You’ll fall in love with the characters immediately and not be able to stop reading until all is well (no matter how thick this book is). This was the book that has kept me up the latest ever, my eyes were burning from lack of sleep (and all the freaking tears Aurelia and Chad made me cry for them).
I love this book with my whole heart. I hadn't read a book like this one in quite a long time. It's one of those reads that gets a physical reaction from you. I felt these two's heartache so deep in my soul, I will never forget them.
I loved most of the side characters, except for one or two evil b*tches, but Auden even made me feel for them and understand them. All except one, that one could burn in hell for all I cared. All the characters were so interconnected and all played a part in the grand scheme of things. I loved that about the story even when I hated them for the part they played in these two's journey.
Maestro was a masterpiece. This story was complex, frustrating, and heavily emotional but so so beautiful. Auden did such a fantastic job with these two, my god! Her writing was simply stunning.
⭒ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
♥ Tropes: childhood friends to lovers, angst-filled, tear-jerker, musical career
♥ Details:
⭒ Order at: Amazon US
⭒ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Tiktok ⁕ Pinterest ⁕ Facebook
I haven’t been able to put my thoughts into words on this one, so bear with me! But my goodness, it is a MUST read. It is one of those books that is a complete rollercoaster of emotions. These two will take you on a beautiful, emotional journey full of ups and downs but worth every single second.
You’ll fall in love with the characters immediately and not be able to stop reading until all is well (no matter how thick this book is). This was the book that has kept me up the latest ever, my eyes were burning from lack of sleep (and all the freaking tears Aurelia and Chad made me cry for them).
I love this book with my whole heart. I hadn't read a book like this one in quite a long time. It's one of those reads that gets a physical reaction from you. I felt these two's heartache so deep in my soul, I will never forget them.
I loved most of the side characters, except for one or two evil b*tches, but Auden even made me feel for them and understand them. All except one, that one could burn in hell for all I cared. All the characters were so interconnected and all played a part in the grand scheme of things. I loved that about the story even when I hated them for the part they played in these two's journey.
Maestro was a masterpiece. This story was complex, frustrating, and heavily emotional but so so beautiful. Auden did such a fantastic job with these two, my god! Her writing was simply stunning.
⭒ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
♥ Tropes: childhood friends to lovers, angst-filled, tear-jerker, musical career
♥ Details:
⭒ Order at: Amazon US
⭒ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Tiktok ⁕ Pinterest ⁕ Facebook
September 15, 2023
WHO LIED AND SAID THIS WAS GOOD.
I want my TWO days back. Two DAYS I spent reading this never ending, dumpster fire of a “star crossed lovers” drama. Actually, “star crossed” is taking it too lightly. I think “GALAXY crossed lovers” depicts this book more accurately. The miscommunication / non communication in this book was so miserable to read.. I wanted to poke my eyes out. She DIDNT DESERVE HIM.
I have never in my life read a book with a WORSE FMC. She was a completely unhinged, insecure IDIOT. I literally screamed, “YOU DUMB BITCH” out loud no less than 10 times. SHE WAS A BRIDESMAID?? She went to the wedding?? She was the GODMOTHER. Nope. Nope. Idiot. Spineless. And she NEVER told him how she really felt inside. Her stupid internal monologue that she NEVER vocalized had me wanting to rip my hair out. You love someone SOOoOoOoOoO much but can’t even say how you feel about them…? EVER? She spent half the time either NOT answering his questions out loud (but oh don’t worry she ALWAYS was telling him how she felt in her head), staring at him, or pining after him.
This was the most unhinged, unrealistic, FAR FETCHED “romance” I have read. It makes the drama and back-and-forth in Magnolia Parks look like child play.
I didn’t DNF because there were a few mysteries I wanted solved, but guess what…. I saw them coming FROM a MILE AWAY. And they were also stupid and gross and so far fetched I literally laughed and skimmed through the last 3/4ths of this book.
Will never read again.
If you hate the miscommunication trope, stay AWAY from this book.
I want my TWO days back. Two DAYS I spent reading this never ending, dumpster fire of a “star crossed lovers” drama. Actually, “star crossed” is taking it too lightly. I think “GALAXY crossed lovers” depicts this book more accurately. The miscommunication / non communication in this book was so miserable to read.. I wanted to poke my eyes out. She DIDNT DESERVE HIM.
I have never in my life read a book with a WORSE FMC. She was a completely unhinged, insecure IDIOT. I literally screamed, “YOU DUMB BITCH” out loud no less than 10 times. SHE WAS A BRIDESMAID?? She went to the wedding?? She was the GODMOTHER. Nope. Nope. Idiot. Spineless. And she NEVER told him how she really felt inside. Her stupid internal monologue that she NEVER vocalized had me wanting to rip my hair out. You love someone SOOoOoOoOoO much but can’t even say how you feel about them…? EVER? She spent half the time either NOT answering his questions out loud (but oh don’t worry she ALWAYS was telling him how she felt in her head), staring at him, or pining after him.
This was the most unhinged, unrealistic, FAR FETCHED “romance” I have read. It makes the drama and back-and-forth in Magnolia Parks look like child play.
I didn’t DNF because there were a few mysteries I wanted solved, but guess what…. I saw them coming FROM a MILE AWAY. And they were also stupid and gross and so far fetched I literally laughed and skimmed through the last 3/4ths of this book.
Will never read again.
If you hate the miscommunication trope, stay AWAY from this book.
August 12, 2023
A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF EMOTIONS!! ANGSTY PERFECTION!!
i have read over 500 romance novels in my life, and this is going in my top five.
I am not going to lie to you and tell you this journey is simple, ordinary, and happy. It’s anything but simple. One thing it is though is filled with love.
This is a book that broke my heart, it crushed my soul, it made me want to throw my kindle, scream, but it also confirmed that love… pure simple love doesn’t exist without a fight. And when you have soul crushing love you will do anything to fight for it.
This is a love story, but a beautiful love story. I now know that beautiful love stories are not simple, but they are real.
Maestro is a story of two kids in love with music who meet when they are 13 years old auditioning out for a famous music school. We watch their relationship grow from strangers with a connection at first sight, to friends, best friends, lovers, strangers, lovers, friends and back again.
The story of Chad and Aurelia had me feeling EVERY SINGLE EMOTION.
When I first saw the length I almost didn’t pick up this book, but that would have been a shame because I think every page is necessary.
Beware though. Don’t read this book if you don’t want angst, longing, heartbreak.
The plot twist though… I SCREAMED.
If you take any recommendation from me please let it be this book.
If it’s not obvious, a million billion stars.
i have read over 500 romance novels in my life, and this is going in my top five.
I am not going to lie to you and tell you this journey is simple, ordinary, and happy. It’s anything but simple. One thing it is though is filled with love.
This is a book that broke my heart, it crushed my soul, it made me want to throw my kindle, scream, but it also confirmed that love… pure simple love doesn’t exist without a fight. And when you have soul crushing love you will do anything to fight for it.
This is a love story, but a beautiful love story. I now know that beautiful love stories are not simple, but they are real.
Maestro is a story of two kids in love with music who meet when they are 13 years old auditioning out for a famous music school. We watch their relationship grow from strangers with a connection at first sight, to friends, best friends, lovers, strangers, lovers, friends and back again.
The story of Chad and Aurelia had me feeling EVERY SINGLE EMOTION.
When I first saw the length I almost didn’t pick up this book, but that would have been a shame because I think every page is necessary.
Beware though. Don’t read this book if you don’t want angst, longing, heartbreak.
The plot twist though… I SCREAMED.
If you take any recommendation from me please let it be this book.
If it’s not obvious, a million billion stars.
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