3.5/5 stars. Audio book. I thoroughly enjoyed The Violin Conspiracy, but it did not seem to be a thriller to me. It was more of a novel with a twist. I related so much to Ray as I grew up the same way. I started playing viola when I was in 6th grade. My parents were not exactly supportive, and I always had the school rental like Ray. However, I did not have the same racial problems as him. That is what made this book unique. From the author’s mention of a PS5, it was clear to me that this book was set in present day. I am not a person of color, but I could not believe that racism is grossly overt as Brenden Slocumb wrote it. The treatment from the mall music store associate was so disgusting and I could not imagine anybody treating someone that way…but, again, I am white and do not really have the authority to make any assumptions about racism. As he mentions in the author’s note, he states those things do happen.

I enjoyed how the author talked about the music and the audio book even has musical interludes that are played in between the novel parts, which was a neat experience. The author is a musician, so the writing is valid and very lovingly done. I also related to Ray because my grandma was just like his–so encouraging and proud. I loved the passages talking about Grandma Nora and the passages with Janis, his mentor and professor. I loved that those women truly encouraged and loved Ray.

Ray’s mom was awful. She seemed to despise him so much. I hated her so much. As a mother, I could not imagine not supporting my child’s dreams and seeing them purely in a transactional and monetary way. The book never really explored why. It was infuriating.

Overall, I would recommend this book, but know that, while it is a great story and well-written, it did not keep me on the edge of my seat, and I suspected the person who stole his violin very early on. Go into it for the story and not for a fast-paced, whodunnit thriller.