First published 2015
Julia discovers an old collection of Roma melodies in an Italian antique shop during her travels. Hidden within the pages lies a handwritten waltz titled "Incendio" that catches her attention. Back in present day Boston, each time she attempts to play this fiery composition with its disturbing chords, someone in her household suffers brutal harm. The story shifts to Venice in 1938, where talented young violinist Lorenzo prepares for a crucial musical competition alongside Laura, a cellist he loves deeply. Laura's father, Professor Balboni, warns Lorenzo that Italy grows dangerous for Jews and urges him to flee the country. The mysterious waltz connects these two timelines as Julia uncovers the dark history behind the music that now threatens everyone around her.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, mystery, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, suspenseful
Tropes: dual-timeline, enemies-to-lovers
Setting: Boston, Venice, Italy
Period: 1938, Present Day
MP3 CD · Brilliance Audio
Content warnings: violence