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6 x 9 softcover, 332 pages
ISBN: 978-1-964530-02-4
Retail price: $25
Publication date: October 14, 2024
Published and distributed by: Butler Books, Louisville KY
A master luthier finds himself at the heart of a high-stakes mystery that threatens his reputation and the future of a priceless treasure in Lee’s immersive debut. The story follows Greg Zhu and his husband, Presbyterian minister Dan Randolph, as they travel to Los Angeles for a prestigious violin competition. When a priceless Jackson Stradivarius disappears and suspicion falls on Greg, the couple must work with authorities to clear his name, recover the violin, and confront the dark underworld of the arts black market.
This enthralling novel is as much about the intricate craft of violin making as it is about the emotional journey of Greg and Dan as they navigate career pressures and relationship challenges. Lee’s prose vividly captures the tactile beauty of fine violins, highlighting the devotion and artistry behind their creation. The tension between Greg’s pursuit of recognition and Dan’s struggles with faith, identity, and their complex past adds depth and nuance to the story. The atmospheric settings—ranging from Louisville’s vibrant streets to Manhattan’s elegance and Central Park’s tranquility—immerse readers in a vivid sensory world. The dialogue feels authentic, and the plotting is tight. Themes of love, sacrifice, and ambition are deftly interwoven, raising profound questions about the lengths one will go to for success and the ethical compromises along the way. Through the endearing couple’s journey, the novel highlights the delicate art of crafting not just violins, but also the stories we create to navigate life’s imperfections.
A gripping tale of ambition, artistry, and the fragile bonds of love and trust that will linger with readers long after the final page.
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