"Memorable characters and unusual storyline will appeal to romance and general fiction readers."

Big-haired Long Island girl, Bess Stallone (no relation to the famous Stallone) has always heard music in her head, a talent that translates to the piano. After studying at Juilliard while working three jobs, Bess soon discovers she has no future as a concert pianist since she faints repeatedly during performances. Luckily for Bess, she is discovered by world-famous David Montagnier who is looking for a new partner for his two-piano act.

David is confident he can cure Bess' stage fright as easily as he has overcome other obstacles, such as her father's illness and sister's college fees, and makes extensive plans for future concert tours.

As their professional partnership soon becomes a romance, Bess begins to see a change in David's personality that leads to erratic behavior on and off stage, culminating in a major life-changing event. To endure, Bess must once again discover her 'heart and soul', the music in her head.

Bess is a vibrant, outrageous character who is continually astonished by the changes in her life, but with the support of her mother, sister, and best friends, Jake, Pauline, and the Professor, learns to survive in the fast-paced, ever changing professional music world. Mandel has created memorable characters within an unusual storyline that will appeal to readers of both romance and general fiction.

Mandel

Reviewed by Doris Losey
Posted May 22, 2002