A Symphony of Rivals, the second book in a trilogy, is a compelling historical novel set in 1930’s Germany, Austria, Italy, and the United States. Alejandra Morrison pursues her dream of becoming a symphony conductor at an unfortunate time when culture and the arts are falling under the influence of Nazism, but through her devotion to music and Beethoven’s legacy, she finds a measure of hope and strength. In Berlin, she trains with some of the greatest European conductors and composers of the time. Alejandra’s musical talent is a double-edged sword which places her at the center of a dangerous political world, where she attracts the unwanted attention of a high-ranking German officer. While attempting to maintain her integrity, Alejandra confronts harrowing situations, which challenge her principles; and when the violence and upheaval spread to Vienna, Alejandra must choose between staying in America with her family or risking everything by returning to Europe, in search of her friends, Anton Everhardt, Hannah, and Ben Adelman.
About the Author: Roma Calatayud-Stocks
Award-winning novelist and composer Roma Calatayud-Stocks holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music and Psychology from the University of Minnesota, and post-graduate studies in creative writing from the University of St. Thomas. Roma is the author of two historical novels, A Song in My Heart and A Symphony of Rivals. She’s currently working on the third installment of the series, An Ode to Joy. And in line with her life passion and commitment to bring forth the contributions of all cultures through the arts, Roma’s narratives, set to music, provide a window to locations across the world, while also addressing poignant issues, politics of the era, and history. Calatayud-Stocks released two albums with original compositions, “A Song in My Heart,” to accompany her debut novel, A Song in My Heart, and “Carnival of Life.” Roma has twenty years of experience in various roles at arts organizations, including Friends of the Minnesota Orchestra, Film Society of Minneapolis St Paul, MacPhail Center for Music, Minneapolis Institute of Art, and Vocal Essence. She has toured the United States to present her work at universities, libraries, book clubs, stores, and fairs. Roma lives in Minneapolis with her husband. For music, media, news, and events, see www.RomaStocks.com
"A Suspenseful bridge to the final volume to a historical fiction series," KIRKUS Reviews "The writing is good-exhibiting the kind of inspired genius shown by Alejandra Morrison. The strength of this story is in the bearing witness to the day-to-day process of personal experience where civilization loses its way." Alan Goodman, The Internet Review of Books "Set mostly in pre-WW2 Berlin, A Symphony of Rivals by Roma Calatayud-Stocks is a passionate, page-turning historical novel that pits the ambitions of a would-be woman conductor against the ultra-male power of emerging National Socialism." Itasca Books "Roma's work had me curious to learn more. Her characters, her writing/composing, and also her Mexican heritage all combine to create a fascinating mix of border-smashing talent." Howard Lovy “An Extraordinary Fusion of Music and Literature,” Book Reviewer List. REVIEWS: “A Suspenseful bridge to the final volume to a historical fiction series. The novel raises stimulating questions regarding work life balance, and the entwinement of art and politics. The momentum accelerates with the emergence of more serious conflicts, leaving readers with a cliffhanger. And for culture enthusiasts, the author once again offers musical selections corresponding to each chapter." KIRKUS Reviews "Music had become a political instrument. In this story the protagonist, Alejandra Morrison, a young lady possessing an exceptional musical gift as a concert pianist.The writing is good, exhibiting the kind of inspired genius shown by Alejandra Morrison. The strength of this story is in the bearing witness to the day-to-day process of personal experience whereby civilization loses its way. Alan Goodman, The Internet Review of Books "A good book is one that not only places the reader inside the story but challenges her to think about how she would react and behave in seemingly no-win situations. A compelling story occurs right at this border between good and evil, between strength and weakness. And that is what makes Roma Calatayud-Stocks such an effective writer, especially in her latest book, A Symphony of Rivals. I have always been drawn toward writers who test and cross boundaries, which is one reason why Roma’s work had me curious to learn more. Her characters, her writing/composing, and also her Mexican heritage all combine to create a fascinating mix of border-smashing talent." Howard Lovy - For full Q&A Interview, see www.RomaStocks.com
