About the Book:
Nelleke Reitsma is one of the world's top lutenists and guitar players. She is very good because she has had 350 years to practice.
Sinfonia: First Notes on the Lute records her life, beginning with her entrance into the world of the undying through friendship with Izaak, a mysterious young man who only comes out at night; and, eventually, her crossing over into that world. Leaving her native Netherlands for England, she finds herself embroiled in a fight to save the vampire community of London from destruction. She encounters Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth, and, using her connections to government and the theater, uncovers the last followers of an ancient religion that possesses power capable of destroying Nelleke and the coven of vampires to which she belongs. It is up to her to stop them.
A fascinating and compelling piece of paranormal fiction, it abounds in danger, romance, horror, love, and beauty.
My Review: 4/5
Nelleke is a really complicated character but what drew her to me the most was how relatable she was despite all the hardships she had overcome. The book begins in the Netherlands, which was very unique, as most vampire stories begin in cliché locations like Romania. Its nice to finally see an author stem away from “sparkly” vampires, and bring back powerful and headstrong vampires. The plot was fantastic; the perfect balance of action, paranormal creatures and a hint of romance! If you’re looking for a fast paced historical fiction book about vampires with an amazingly resilient and fierce heroine, this book is right up your alley. Sinfonia kept me captivated and I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I can’t wait!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, and all thoughts are my own
About the Author: David W. Landrum lives and writes in West Michigan. His fiction, poetry, and scholarships have appeared in journals and magazines around the world. Landrum has published over 150 short stories in such journals as The Horror Zine, 34th Parallel, Black Denim Review, Silver Pen, Erotique, Non-Binary Review, Night to Dawn, The Lorelei Signal and in many others. His novellas—The Gallery, Strange Brew, ShadowCity, The Last Minstrel, Le Café de la Mort, Mother Hulda, The Prophetess, and The Sorceress of Time, along with his full-length fantasy novel, The Sorceress of the Northern Seas, are available through Amazon. He has also published a great deal of poetry and many academic studies.