What do you think?
Rate this book
Tempesta's Dream
Tempesta's Dream is the story of an aspiring opera singer coming of age in Milan; a tender and moving love story; a testament to the bonds of friendship; and, at its core, a tribute to the beauty, majesty and miracle of opera.
Giovanni Tempesta always dreamed of becoming an opera tenor and one day singing from the stage of the La Scala Opera House in his hometown of Milan, Italy. But with no real training, his dream has little chance for fulfillment .
One day, he meets and immediately falls in love with Isabella Monterone, a dark-haired beauty, whose father, a very rich and powerful Milanese Judge, refuses to allow his daughter to date a penniless musician. At the lowest part of his life, Giovanni comes upon the Casa di Riposo, a rest home for musicians established by the great opera composer, Giuseppe Verdi. It is at the Casa Verdi that Giovanni meets Alfredo del Monte, a blind, retired opera singer with a secretive past who gradually becomes his mentor.
Could Alfredo be the one person who could assist Giovanni in finding the break he needs? Or is Giovanni destined to be on the cusp of reaching his life long dream, only to find failure?
If you would like to hear the music behind the novel, Tempesta's Dream, please find the Spotify play list - The Music of Tempesta's Dream.
You can either search for the Playlist on Spotify or copy link and paste the below link in your browser.
open.spotify.com/playlist/0iJYMtXSPyK...
Giovanni Tempesta always dreamed of becoming an opera tenor and one day singing from the stage of the La Scala Opera House in his hometown of Milan, Italy. But with no real training, his dream has little chance for fulfillment .
One day, he meets and immediately falls in love with Isabella Monterone, a dark-haired beauty, whose father, a very rich and powerful Milanese Judge, refuses to allow his daughter to date a penniless musician. At the lowest part of his life, Giovanni comes upon the Casa di Riposo, a rest home for musicians established by the great opera composer, Giuseppe Verdi. It is at the Casa Verdi that Giovanni meets Alfredo del Monte, a blind, retired opera singer with a secretive past who gradually becomes his mentor.
Could Alfredo be the one person who could assist Giovanni in finding the break he needs? Or is Giovanni destined to be on the cusp of reaching his life long dream, only to find failure?
If you would like to hear the music behind the novel, Tempesta's Dream, please find the Spotify play list - The Music of Tempesta's Dream.
You can either search for the Playlist on Spotify or copy link and paste the below link in your browser.
open.spotify.com/playlist/0iJYMtXSPyK...
264 pages, Paperback
Published September 25, 2013
75 people are currently reading
1461 people want to read
About the author
Vincent B. "Chip" LoCoco
5 books143 followersChip LoCoco's love of music, stories and of his Sicilian-American heritage shines in all of his novels. His novels have been ranked on Amazon as Bestsellers and Top Rated novels.
His first novel was Tempesta's Dream - A Story of Love, Friendship and Opera. Tempesta's Dream was awarded the Pinnacle Award in Historical Fiction.
Chip's next novel, A Song for Bellafortuna, forms Book 1 of his much beloved Bellafortuna Series. That novel won the B.R.A.G Medallion Award in Historical Fiction and was named a short-list finalist in the prestigious William Faulkner Writing Competition.
Book 2 of the Bellafortuna series is Saving the Music. It too has been listed as a Top Rated novel on Amazon and as a Bestseller in Italian Historical Fiction. It was selected as the Winner of the 2022 American Fiction Award in Historical Fiction. It was also named as a Finalist in the 2022 International Book Awards in the Historical Fiction Category and Best Fiction Cover Design.
Sicilian Melody is Book 3 in the series, It is a story that concerns the reemergence of the Mafia after WWII. The novel has been named an Amazon Hot New Release.
His latest release is The Devil's Jazz: The Haunted Chrocnicles of the Axman of New Orleans. A thriller of a novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Chip is an estate planning attorney in New Orleans, where he lives with his wife and two children. Chip is a member of the Italian American Writers Association. Chip has given extensive talks to book clubs, organizations, and has appeared on The Catholic Channel on Sirius Radio.
For more information, visit him at www.vincentlococo.com.
His first novel was Tempesta's Dream - A Story of Love, Friendship and Opera. Tempesta's Dream was awarded the Pinnacle Award in Historical Fiction.
Chip's next novel, A Song for Bellafortuna, forms Book 1 of his much beloved Bellafortuna Series. That novel won the B.R.A.G Medallion Award in Historical Fiction and was named a short-list finalist in the prestigious William Faulkner Writing Competition.
Book 2 of the Bellafortuna series is Saving the Music. It too has been listed as a Top Rated novel on Amazon and as a Bestseller in Italian Historical Fiction. It was selected as the Winner of the 2022 American Fiction Award in Historical Fiction. It was also named as a Finalist in the 2022 International Book Awards in the Historical Fiction Category and Best Fiction Cover Design.
Sicilian Melody is Book 3 in the series, It is a story that concerns the reemergence of the Mafia after WWII. The novel has been named an Amazon Hot New Release.
His latest release is The Devil's Jazz: The Haunted Chrocnicles of the Axman of New Orleans. A thriller of a novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Chip is an estate planning attorney in New Orleans, where he lives with his wife and two children. Chip is a member of the Italian American Writers Association. Chip has given extensive talks to book clubs, organizations, and has appeared on The Catholic Channel on Sirius Radio.
For more information, visit him at www.vincentlococo.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 17, 2015
I won this book through a Giveaway here on Goodreads.
When I read the plot in the giveaway description I had become immediately curious to read this book, so I was really happy to know that I had won it. Months later, I have finally read it.
Tempesta's Dream is a very nice story, that, as its subtitle says, deals with "love, friendship and opera". And it is true, indeed. Opera has a great part in the whole novel, but friendship and love are equally important. Giovanni Tempesta is one of those character that are easy to love: the way they act and think, in a such genuine way, makes them the perfect person to cheer for. Moreover, the way he interacts with Isabella, with such pure feelings, and his completely devotion to her, makes him the romantic lover that every girl has dreamed for at least once in her life.
For what concerns opera, it is clear that the author has a deep knowledge of it: I have learned so many things in less that 300 pages! What I liked most are two things: the original lyrics in Italian (it was very beautiful to read it in the original language too and not only in English) and all the short stories about composers, singers and directors.
There just one aspect with which I had a controversial relationship: the Italian settings. First of all, I have to said that I am Italian. I do not live in Milan, but I know the places he was talking about as well. I appreciated his ability to describe the atmosphere of La Scala with the social background of Italy in the 1970's. But, even if I was impressed by the fact that he made references to fact that only an Italian would know, sometimes I felt like he was a bit generalizing and using some of the cliches of the Italian culture. In addition, the parts of the dialogues written in Italian were not always grammatically correct, which made everything quite funny in some points, but I guess that a non-Italian reader would never understand this, so it is not really important.
Anyway, I recommend this book. It is the perfect companion to spend some hours with if you want to read something light but also involving.
When I read the plot in the giveaway description I had become immediately curious to read this book, so I was really happy to know that I had won it. Months later, I have finally read it.
Tempesta's Dream is a very nice story, that, as its subtitle says, deals with "love, friendship and opera". And it is true, indeed. Opera has a great part in the whole novel, but friendship and love are equally important. Giovanni Tempesta is one of those character that are easy to love: the way they act and think, in a such genuine way, makes them the perfect person to cheer for. Moreover, the way he interacts with Isabella, with such pure feelings, and his completely devotion to her, makes him the romantic lover that every girl has dreamed for at least once in her life.
For what concerns opera, it is clear that the author has a deep knowledge of it: I have learned so many things in less that 300 pages! What I liked most are two things: the original lyrics in Italian (it was very beautiful to read it in the original language too and not only in English) and all the short stories about composers, singers and directors.
There just one aspect with which I had a controversial relationship: the Italian settings. First of all, I have to said that I am Italian. I do not live in Milan, but I know the places he was talking about as well. I appreciated his ability to describe the atmosphere of La Scala with the social background of Italy in the 1970's. But, even if I was impressed by the fact that he made references to fact that only an Italian would know, sometimes I felt like he was a bit generalizing and using some of the cliches of the Italian culture. In addition, the parts of the dialogues written in Italian were not always grammatically correct, which made everything quite funny in some points, but I guess that a non-Italian reader would never understand this, so it is not really important.
Anyway, I recommend this book. It is the perfect companion to spend some hours with if you want to read something light but also involving.
July 18, 2014
Tempesta's Dream is a book that is really about opera at its core. The author's passion for opera really shines through and that's what I liked about this book. As a music lover and singer myself, anything associated with music and its history is something I enjoy. The author really incorporates the history and music of the opera here.
However, the story itself was somewhat labored. While I enjoyed Giovanni as a character, his passion and ambition to achieve his greatest dream is highly admirable, the interactions between the characters could have flowed more smoothly. Giovanni and Isabella were supposed to have this great love, but I just really didn't feel it. In the end, the saving grace is Giovanni and the message that one should never give up on their dreams.
If you're passionate about opera, you should definitely read this book because there is a wealth of historical accounts included. This, and the unflinching spirit of Giovanni, make this a book which is worth taking a look at if one can overlook the slightly stilted story and dialog. Not bad for a debut novel. There's promise here so I will look forward to checking out the author's future works.
However, the story itself was somewhat labored. While I enjoyed Giovanni as a character, his passion and ambition to achieve his greatest dream is highly admirable, the interactions between the characters could have flowed more smoothly. Giovanni and Isabella were supposed to have this great love, but I just really didn't feel it. In the end, the saving grace is Giovanni and the message that one should never give up on their dreams.
If you're passionate about opera, you should definitely read this book because there is a wealth of historical accounts included. This, and the unflinching spirit of Giovanni, make this a book which is worth taking a look at if one can overlook the slightly stilted story and dialog. Not bad for a debut novel. There's promise here so I will look forward to checking out the author's future works.
June 23, 2014
I loved this book. I cared about the characters, shared their passion for love and opera and consider Mr. LoCoco's book to be one of my favorites. This book was inspiring to me. I am a young college student pursuing classical voice that dreams of being a professional singer. Each page taught me more about my craft. I plan on recommending the book to my opera and musical theatre college friends. The ending was so beautiful! It reminded me of the relationship I have with my first voice teacher. He has done so much for me and although I am in college studying under a different teacher, I still take lessons from him semi regularly. Read this book!
September 4, 2019
Giovanni Tempesta dreams of becoming an opera singer. He struggles to make his dream a reality in front of great odds. There is much to like in this story. The plot is reminiscent of many opera plots--very melodramatic, in order to stir the emotions. Of course, we need it in opera, since music and emotions go hand in hand. If you're an opera fan and would like to learn more about it in a fun way, this book is for you.
April 17, 2014
This is a heartwarming, uplifting novel about a young man whose dream it is to sing onstage at La Scala Opera House in Milan, Italy. The author's love of opera shines through on every page! I really liked this moving story of hope and optimism. Through the vehicle of a simple narrative, this is a wonderful introduction to opera and conveys some of the beauty of this art form.
Giovanni Tempesta's father had instilled in his son a great love and passion for opera from early age. We are introduced to Giovanni, who sings opera arias and Neapolitan love songs at Angelo's Restaurant part-time. He cannot read music nor has he studied voice. But his desire to sing at La Scala is fierce. By a fortunate occurence he meets Alfredo, a retired, blind singer living at the Casa di Riposo [House of Rest], founded by the composer Verdi for retired musicians. Alfredo is overjoyed to teach him and becomes mentor and friend. Then Giovanni's life begins to change. Through all his experiences Giovanni finds more than he had sought. The characters were admirable--all decent human beings. I especially liked the opera anecdotes and history Alfredo and others told him. I liked how the words to different arias were worked into the story and fit so well into the text. Sometimes I would hum along. This was a quick read of a matter of hours, but worth rereading in future.
Won as a Goodreads giveaway.
Very highly recommended for lovers of musical fiction.
Giovanni Tempesta's father had instilled in his son a great love and passion for opera from early age. We are introduced to Giovanni, who sings opera arias and Neapolitan love songs at Angelo's Restaurant part-time. He cannot read music nor has he studied voice. But his desire to sing at La Scala is fierce. By a fortunate occurence he meets Alfredo, a retired, blind singer living at the Casa di Riposo [House of Rest], founded by the composer Verdi for retired musicians. Alfredo is overjoyed to teach him and becomes mentor and friend. Then Giovanni's life begins to change. Through all his experiences Giovanni finds more than he had sought. The characters were admirable--all decent human beings. I especially liked the opera anecdotes and history Alfredo and others told him. I liked how the words to different arias were worked into the story and fit so well into the text. Sometimes I would hum along. This was a quick read of a matter of hours, but worth rereading in future.
Won as a Goodreads giveaway.
Very highly recommended for lovers of musical fiction.
April 20, 2020
*I won this book in a giveaway a long time ago and now that the world is "quarantined", I have finally found the time to read it.
Just like what is printed in the front cover, the story is filled with "love, friendship, and opera". I thoroughly enjoyed reading Giovanni's journey to becoming an opera singer. A lot of stories these days are always about love, but the main plot of this book is not giving up on your dreams, even when it seems like age, social status, and people say otherwise. Not that he doesn't find love and friendship, Giovanni does but they intertwine with the story effortlessly.
As someone who is trying to graduate but COVID-19 is a huge obstacle from graduating and applying for jobs, I felt I could relate to Giovanni. He had obstacles such as financial difficulties, his girlfriend's father, and professionals who believe that he is past his prime. Although my hardships were not as close to his, I related to his. I am the same age as Giovanni right now and we're both trying to reach our goals. It gives me hope during these times and it's a good thing I didn't read this book right away.
I recommend others to read this book!
Just like what is printed in the front cover, the story is filled with "love, friendship, and opera". I thoroughly enjoyed reading Giovanni's journey to becoming an opera singer. A lot of stories these days are always about love, but the main plot of this book is not giving up on your dreams, even when it seems like age, social status, and people say otherwise. Not that he doesn't find love and friendship, Giovanni does but they intertwine with the story effortlessly.
As someone who is trying to graduate but COVID-19 is a huge obstacle from graduating and applying for jobs, I felt I could relate to Giovanni. He had obstacles such as financial difficulties, his girlfriend's father, and professionals who believe that he is past his prime. Although my hardships were not as close to his, I related to his. I am the same age as Giovanni right now and we're both trying to reach our goals. It gives me hope during these times and it's a good thing I didn't read this book right away.
I recommend others to read this book!
August 9, 2020
A tribute to persistence
Really enjoyed this sweet story and highly recommend it to anyone who loves music. The novel inspires and rewards "staying the course" and remaining optimistic, even in the face of failure.
Really enjoyed this sweet story and highly recommend it to anyone who loves music. The novel inspires and rewards "staying the course" and remaining optimistic, even in the face of failure.
January 9, 2021
Persistent
Being brought up in a home with both opera and classical music this brought back lots of memories and appreciation.
Being brought up in a home with both opera and classical music this brought back lots of memories and appreciation.
November 21, 2013
Many Splendored Love Dramatized in the Romance of Opera
This is a story that makes one happy, passionate and sad because the emotions and drama of the various characters in it are so vividly described. Because there is so much Italian language included (translations of various opera verses) it makes the reader feel like they are actually in Milan, where this story first opens.
Tempesta Giovanni is a twenty-five year old tenor, who was always encouraged by his deceased father to become famous as an opera singer. His father played many records of various operas and also arias by famous singers so that although Tempesta could not read music, he could memorize an entire opera, tell you who the famous singers were who sang them and what the opera was portraying. The family was too poor to send him to a reputable voice trainer, which is what it took to climb the ladder in the operatic world, so he attempted to train himself. He was born with a natural strong, melodic tenor voice .
The story encompasses his struggles to find a voice teacher and improve enough that he can compete, the goal being singing on the stage at LaScala and also marry the love of his life, but she outclasses him and there is much family discord and resistance against their love. There is much history relative to New Orleans being the capital of opera in the states. If you have an ounce of romance in you, you will love this story.
This is a story that makes one happy, passionate and sad because the emotions and drama of the various characters in it are so vividly described. Because there is so much Italian language included (translations of various opera verses) it makes the reader feel like they are actually in Milan, where this story first opens.
Tempesta Giovanni is a twenty-five year old tenor, who was always encouraged by his deceased father to become famous as an opera singer. His father played many records of various operas and also arias by famous singers so that although Tempesta could not read music, he could memorize an entire opera, tell you who the famous singers were who sang them and what the opera was portraying. The family was too poor to send him to a reputable voice trainer, which is what it took to climb the ladder in the operatic world, so he attempted to train himself. He was born with a natural strong, melodic tenor voice .
The story encompasses his struggles to find a voice teacher and improve enough that he can compete, the goal being singing on the stage at LaScala and also marry the love of his life, but she outclasses him and there is much family discord and resistance against their love. There is much history relative to New Orleans being the capital of opera in the states. If you have an ounce of romance in you, you will love this story.
November 29, 2013
Vincent "Chip" LoCoco's first novel, Tempesta's Dream, was an absolute joy to read. It's the story of Giovanni, a young man whose dream is to sing opera on the stage of La Scala in Milan. Because he was born poor, the doors of opera schools and conductors are slammed in his face even with his beautiful tenor voice. His story is a roller-coaster ride of almost getting his big break, only to have it snatched away by fate. His love for a beautiful young woman whose influential (and disapproving) father is involved in the opera world further adds to his roadblocks.
Behind the stories of love, friendship, family and redemption is the beautiful story of the history of opera. We are privy to the interesting stories behind many of the biggest names in opera - Caruso, Puccini, Verdi, Callas, Ponselle, DiStefano, Gigli, Toscanini - and treated to the lyrics in both Italian/French and English of some of the most famous arias. For those who only know the basics about opera, this story will leave you wanting to learn more. For those who live and love opera, this story will feel like an old friend.
LoCoco skillfully brings to life the streets of Milan, so much that I could almost taste the espresso and see the cobblestone streets. Overall, just a very interesting, intelligent and believable book - 5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of Tempesta's Dream in exchange for writing an honest review.
Behind the stories of love, friendship, family and redemption is the beautiful story of the history of opera. We are privy to the interesting stories behind many of the biggest names in opera - Caruso, Puccini, Verdi, Callas, Ponselle, DiStefano, Gigli, Toscanini - and treated to the lyrics in both Italian/French and English of some of the most famous arias. For those who only know the basics about opera, this story will leave you wanting to learn more. For those who live and love opera, this story will feel like an old friend.
LoCoco skillfully brings to life the streets of Milan, so much that I could almost taste the espresso and see the cobblestone streets. Overall, just a very interesting, intelligent and believable book - 5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of Tempesta's Dream in exchange for writing an honest review.
November 15, 2013
Twenty-five year old Tempesta lives in Milan with his widowed mother (from Sicily) and his younger sister. He works in a pharmacy by day, but loves his second job singing at Angelo's by night. His dream is to become an opera tenor and to one day sing at La Scala Opera House. It was also the dream of his father, but was never attained, although he instilled in his son the love of opera.
One night while singing at Angelo's he sees Isabella and falls in love. However, her father is a very rich and influential judge in Milan who loathes Tempesta, forbidding his daughter from ever seeing him again. Tempesta's run-in with the judge finally makes him see that he must change the course of his life and pursue his operatic career to become accepted. He meets Alfredo del Monte at the Casa di Ripaso, a home founded by Verdi for retired musicians. Alfredo takes Tempesta under his wing and guides him in this pursuit.
The ending is beautiful and suspenseful, tying together all the story lines. I enjoyed the descriptions of the countryside and anecdotes of the tenors. The story gives a history of opera, making it insightful to someone unfamiliar with this musical genre. Some of the musical descriptions were too detailed in parts, but all in all--a wonderful story of persistence and determination.
One night while singing at Angelo's he sees Isabella and falls in love. However, her father is a very rich and influential judge in Milan who loathes Tempesta, forbidding his daughter from ever seeing him again. Tempesta's run-in with the judge finally makes him see that he must change the course of his life and pursue his operatic career to become accepted. He meets Alfredo del Monte at the Casa di Ripaso, a home founded by Verdi for retired musicians. Alfredo takes Tempesta under his wing and guides him in this pursuit.
The ending is beautiful and suspenseful, tying together all the story lines. I enjoyed the descriptions of the countryside and anecdotes of the tenors. The story gives a history of opera, making it insightful to someone unfamiliar with this musical genre. Some of the musical descriptions were too detailed in parts, but all in all--a wonderful story of persistence and determination.
October 15, 2013
[I received this book in a giveaway from Goodreads First Reads. I thank the author and publisher for this opportunity. However, in no way did this affect my review. As usual, all opinions are 100% mine]
I grew up with the opera on the radio every Saturday afternoon. My father had no idea what might be being sung but he loved the Texaco Opera Quiz. My favorite part was the summary of the opera, and as I grew, I began to love the singing just as much. In rhe oast, I too, have sung. However, illness has ended that amateur pastime. I relate this because the tenner of this book is much the same as those memories.
Giovanni Tempesta wants to sing opera at LaScala. He's got no chance in the eyes of society:he's poor, has no connections, and most importantly, has no teacher. He does sing at a local restaurant and dreams of finding the wedge that will get him into the world of opera that he and his father dreamed of.
It is by his own hard work that his dream becomes reality. This story reads like a lyrical libretto of a passionate opera. It is great escape that will bring you into the history of opera, with backstories that will make you smile and teach you about this wonderful music. Mr. LoCoco is writing his next book. I certainly hope it is as entertaining as this was. Bravo
I grew up with the opera on the radio every Saturday afternoon. My father had no idea what might be being sung but he loved the Texaco Opera Quiz. My favorite part was the summary of the opera, and as I grew, I began to love the singing just as much. In rhe oast, I too, have sung. However, illness has ended that amateur pastime. I relate this because the tenner of this book is much the same as those memories.
Giovanni Tempesta wants to sing opera at LaScala. He's got no chance in the eyes of society:he's poor, has no connections, and most importantly, has no teacher. He does sing at a local restaurant and dreams of finding the wedge that will get him into the world of opera that he and his father dreamed of.
It is by his own hard work that his dream becomes reality. This story reads like a lyrical libretto of a passionate opera. It is great escape that will bring you into the history of opera, with backstories that will make you smile and teach you about this wonderful music. Mr. LoCoco is writing his next book. I certainly hope it is as entertaining as this was. Bravo
January 14, 2015
I was attracted to this book by its opera theme and being set in Milan, where I used to live. My expectations were very high and frankly I am devastated. The system of reviewing only allows me to give this book five stars when it definitely deserves more like ten!
This is an inspirational story about following your dreams and one man’s love for opera. While ostensibly that man is the hero of the story, it is also undoubtedly the author, whose love for the world of opera rings out from every page.
This is a love story. The love of a young man for opera but also his love for a young girl he meets, who has a very disapproving and overbearing father. There is also the love of a family and friends, which makes this a really heartwarming read and I shed a couple of tears more than once.
I really connected with this beautiful book and the characters on many levels. If like me you enjoy opera and have lived in Milan it is a no brainer you will love this book. Perhaps some people will complain the story is a little predictable but personally I like nothing better than a well written story with a happy ending.
This is the author’s first novel and I can’t wait to read his next!
This is an inspirational story about following your dreams and one man’s love for opera. While ostensibly that man is the hero of the story, it is also undoubtedly the author, whose love for the world of opera rings out from every page.
This is a love story. The love of a young man for opera but also his love for a young girl he meets, who has a very disapproving and overbearing father. There is also the love of a family and friends, which makes this a really heartwarming read and I shed a couple of tears more than once.
I really connected with this beautiful book and the characters on many levels. If like me you enjoy opera and have lived in Milan it is a no brainer you will love this book. Perhaps some people will complain the story is a little predictable but personally I like nothing better than a well written story with a happy ending.
This is the author’s first novel and I can’t wait to read his next!
August 18, 2014
I don’t know much about opera, so this book was an easy and fascinating way to learn. The author’s extensive knowledge and love for opera pours out of each page and it’s a joy to read knowing how much love was put into its creation. I especially loved the story of friendship between Giovanni and his teacher Alfredo. Giovanni was a character you could easily cheer for, and even though the love story doesn’t fit my personal taste (I don’t care for “love at first sight” romantic storylines) I know other people do and it fits into this genre. The plot and writing style were very simplistic and predictable, but the book was incredibly heartwarming and the ending was beautiful. I would gladly read it again to learn about opera some more since the information was too new for me to catch all of it during my first read, and it’s a fantastic story to read when you are in the mood for an easy, uplifting tale of obtaining one’s dreams.
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads! Thank You!
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads! Thank You!
July 8, 2014
Copy received from Historical Fiction Virtual Tours for an honest review
It's impossible not to feel the passion that Chip LoCoco has for the opera. This passion is personified by Giovanni Tempesta. I really enjoyed this beautiful novel. It's hard to say that it's a novel about a man's passion for the opera only... It really is a man's journey to realizing his dreams despite many obstacles. Giovanni was a beautiful human being. He was a man that loved the opera but put his dream on hold because he was helping his family and because he couldn't catch a break. When he met Isabella it felt like it was similar to Romeo and Juliette. They were both held apart from each other because of Isabella's dad. LoCoco is a beautiful writer. He was able to eloquently portray the passion of the opera through Giovanni's passion and dedication to becoming an opera singer. His struggles made him even more endearing. This was a beautiful and passionate story about fulfillment!
It's impossible not to feel the passion that Chip LoCoco has for the opera. This passion is personified by Giovanni Tempesta. I really enjoyed this beautiful novel. It's hard to say that it's a novel about a man's passion for the opera only... It really is a man's journey to realizing his dreams despite many obstacles. Giovanni was a beautiful human being. He was a man that loved the opera but put his dream on hold because he was helping his family and because he couldn't catch a break. When he met Isabella it felt like it was similar to Romeo and Juliette. They were both held apart from each other because of Isabella's dad. LoCoco is a beautiful writer. He was able to eloquently portray the passion of the opera through Giovanni's passion and dedication to becoming an opera singer. His struggles made him even more endearing. This was a beautiful and passionate story about fulfillment!
July 27, 2015
What this novel does well is that it combines the history of opera in Italy, specifically at La Scala di Milano, with a poignant friendship and love story. It covers all the famous opera singers and composers, as well as some Italian history. It is evident the author did a great deal of research and is passionate about opera and Italian life. At times, there were many sections that read more technically instead of prose-like, and this made the story flow more like a creative non-fiction book than a novel. But the bones are great. Beneath all the information, there is a beautiful tale of friendship and love. This is a wonderful book, accurately written, that will give readers an indepth knowledge about opera with its many performances, singers, and composers. It is a wonderful introduction to the world of opera!
June 20, 2014
This story revolving around opera, with a look at the struggles an opera singer faces while trying to make it in a competitive world, had an appeal for me from the very beginning. Giovanni is a wonderful character with raw talent and a true heart. I loved the crash course on operas and their composers as well. Moments of emotion, from both happy to sad, feeling Giovanni's despair to his triumph kept me enjoying every moment. Adored this book and is now added to my personal favorites.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2015
A must for opera lovers !!
Having spent some time in Milan,I recognized the places mentioned and better still, I love opera. Like the author, my father on Saturday afternoon listened to the met on the radio and watched the football game on tv with no sound. I knew the "the greats" mentioned and was so pleased to see them remember. Light reading but so very enjoyable. I was surprised and disappointed that it ended so quickly. I wanted more.!!
Having spent some time in Milan,I recognized the places mentioned and better still, I love opera. Like the author, my father on Saturday afternoon listened to the met on the radio and watched the football game on tv with no sound. I knew the "the greats" mentioned and was so pleased to see them remember. Light reading but so very enjoyable. I was surprised and disappointed that it ended so quickly. I wanted more.!!
August 18, 2015
This was such a wonderful book. Its a great story, full of passion and admirable characters. I learned so much about different operas that I didn't know before. Its a great insight into what goes on behind the scenes for those involved in opera. I'm really looking forward to reading another book by this author.
June 26, 2014
Written very simplistically and the characters were a bit flat. It felt like the book was a vehicle for talking about opera, not really much of a story by itself. However, I did enjoy the ending and it did have a few unpredictable bits throughout. It would be fantastic if it would be sold with the music. It would definitely enhance the enjoyment of a very simple story.
November 29, 2013
As much as the book was a bit schmaltzy....the up moments were absolutely incredible and well worth the read. How many times can you say a book gave you goosebumps? A great read for anyone who loves opera, or is interested in finding out what it's all about.....thank you Chip!
August 18, 2019
Bravo
My grandmother and Caruso lived in Naples Italy when he was a street singer. Her love of opera she gave to me. She would play his records on the victrola when I was 5 years old..Your book brought back many memories and your knowledge of Opera was remarkable.
My grandmother and Caruso lived in Naples Italy when he was a street singer. Her love of opera she gave to me. She would play his records on the victrola when I was 5 years old..Your book brought back many memories and your knowledge of Opera was remarkable.
October 28, 2020
Tempesta's Dream
I know nothing about opera but reading these books make me want to know more. Thank you so much for well written books that hold your attention. It was very hard for me to put them down once I started reading them.
I know nothing about opera but reading these books make me want to know more. Thank you so much for well written books that hold your attention. It was very hard for me to put them down once I started reading them.
July 22, 2016
I won this book through First Reads. Even someone who knows absolutely nothing about Opera can read this & love it. Beautiful story - Would definitely recommend reading!
December 22, 2014
I love the opera and thought this book was a breath of fresh air.
February 24, 2015
The best book I have read (listened to) this year! If you get the chance, listen to it with professional narration.
August 28, 2015
It's been a great reading that let me know lots of things about opera.
July 19, 2021
Binge Worthy
I have read Saving the Music, A song for Bellafortuna, and Tempesta’s Dream. All my favorites, I binged read them! Loved that I’m educated as I read them, can’t wait for another book by Mr. LoCoco!
I have read Saving the Music, A song for Bellafortuna, and Tempesta’s Dream. All my favorites, I binged read them! Loved that I’m educated as I read them, can’t wait for another book by Mr. LoCoco!
September 27, 2014
The Tempesta of the title is Giovanni Tempesta, a twenty-five-year-old Italian man living in 1979 in Milan, Italy. Giovanni dreams of becoming a world-class opera tenor, but he earns a living as a clerk by day, and an opera-café singer by night.
The Prologue explains how Giovanni came to discover opera: through his father, a consummate romantic and opera aficionado. Franco Tempesta explains to his young son how opera is romance and raw emotion put to poetry and music. Opera also touches how the man teaches his son about love.
Without realizing it, Franco rears his son to be something of a throwback to an earlier idea of male-female relations. That formal, respectful attitude to women, love, and relationships was out of place even in 1979.
Giovanni has a sweetness and intensity about him, so we can almost forgive his following his love-at-first-sight woman home. Giovanni is, as the author says: "...a passionate romantic living in a very unromantic world." And when Giovanni serenades the woman: "He was a throwback to a lady's old romantic notion of how a man should act."
Falling in love pushes Giovanni to pursue his dream with more conviction. With ups and downs, lessons and sudden lesions, successes and failures, we follow Giovanni's progress to his ultimate success. The satisfying, joyous ending has a truly operatic feel to it, musically, situationally and emotionally. It is a big-opera finish.
A few years back there was a novel written for young adults that had a father teaching his daughter about the history of philosophy. Many adults read the book for the easy-to-grasp explanations. Tempesta's Dream has the same feel to it, but for a history of opera. The book's coyness about sex makes it a suitable book for both adults and young-adults. The opera history and entertaining anecdotes that Giovanni's teacher, Alfredo, shares with his eager student make learning easy for the reader, too.
The book is attractively presented, well-edited, and offered in various formats, including an audio book. The omniscient narrative prose is not always the smoothest it could be, and the dialog can be stilted at times, but the directness of the prose suits direct and single-minded Giovanni Tempesta, and in the end, this is Giovanni's story.
The author brings opera to life on the page, which he achieves through the use of the libretto texts, and rich descriptions of the music and of the emotions the music creates.
True to the opera it honors, the book is full of strong emotions, heart, tears, love, ambition, friendship and an underlying decency. I enjoyed it and it had me turning to my opera recordings, which is always a good thing!
Please read my full and illustrated review at Italophile Book Reviews.
http://italophilebookreviews.blogspot...
The Prologue explains how Giovanni came to discover opera: through his father, a consummate romantic and opera aficionado. Franco Tempesta explains to his young son how opera is romance and raw emotion put to poetry and music. Opera also touches how the man teaches his son about love.
Without realizing it, Franco rears his son to be something of a throwback to an earlier idea of male-female relations. That formal, respectful attitude to women, love, and relationships was out of place even in 1979.
Giovanni has a sweetness and intensity about him, so we can almost forgive his following his love-at-first-sight woman home. Giovanni is, as the author says: "...a passionate romantic living in a very unromantic world." And when Giovanni serenades the woman: "He was a throwback to a lady's old romantic notion of how a man should act."
Falling in love pushes Giovanni to pursue his dream with more conviction. With ups and downs, lessons and sudden lesions, successes and failures, we follow Giovanni's progress to his ultimate success. The satisfying, joyous ending has a truly operatic feel to it, musically, situationally and emotionally. It is a big-opera finish.
A few years back there was a novel written for young adults that had a father teaching his daughter about the history of philosophy. Many adults read the book for the easy-to-grasp explanations. Tempesta's Dream has the same feel to it, but for a history of opera. The book's coyness about sex makes it a suitable book for both adults and young-adults. The opera history and entertaining anecdotes that Giovanni's teacher, Alfredo, shares with his eager student make learning easy for the reader, too.
The book is attractively presented, well-edited, and offered in various formats, including an audio book. The omniscient narrative prose is not always the smoothest it could be, and the dialog can be stilted at times, but the directness of the prose suits direct and single-minded Giovanni Tempesta, and in the end, this is Giovanni's story.
The author brings opera to life on the page, which he achieves through the use of the libretto texts, and rich descriptions of the music and of the emotions the music creates.
True to the opera it honors, the book is full of strong emotions, heart, tears, love, ambition, friendship and an underlying decency. I enjoyed it and it had me turning to my opera recordings, which is always a good thing!
Please read my full and illustrated review at Italophile Book Reviews.
http://italophilebookreviews.blogspot...
November 24, 2013
Not everyone hunts on the radio dial for the Opera channel, yet this music style is a passion for many others. Author Vincent B. Chip LoCoco, bridges this gap, between those that are operatically well-informed and the rest of us that are relatively unknowledgeable on the subject. In his book Tempesta's Dream, he does this by teaches while story-telling and paying homage to Opera and its great composers.
Tempesta Dream
Overarching the narrative is the love story of an aspiring opera tenor Giovanni Tempesta and Isabella Monterone, the daughter of a well heeled judge. This is a boy meets girl story, which is a light simple filament that links together the extremely interesting historical sketches of the history of opera that dot the chapters.
The novel is situated primarily in Milan, Italy and the tale follows Giovanni Tempesta along his professional path. It gives an excellent inside view of how the the opera career ladder works, the background of training, access to auditions, and the caprice of opportunity. LeCoco focuses on the Italian opera house La Scala and the history of composers, keying in on Giacomo Puccini and Guiseppe Verdi.
Caruso, La Scala, Puccini, Verdi and many other historical figures are discussed and described in interspersed historical vignettes throughout the novel. This and the explanations of the many operas as well as English translations of Italian lyric quotes are a good reason to read this book.
LoCoco loves the history behind the story and you can tell. He shares tidbit after historical tidbit with the reader. Whether it is the take of how Caruso kicked off the recording industry, Puccini’s discovery of opera after he viewed Aida, or the development of opera from the 1560’s and its connection to Greek sources and Aristotle the author is in fine form as he gives the reader the juicy bits of Opera history. These historical vignette give the non-opera buff a reason to latch on to the subject and wait expectantly for the next historical tale.
Would I recommend you pick up this book for the love story, well no, that is not its strong point, but if you have even a small interest in Opera are willing to put your toe in the operatic waters, would like to understand why someone you know why others like opera, then read this book.
6.4 /10
http://ebooknews.ca/home/2013/11/24/o...
- Author provided reading copy.
Tempesta Dream
Overarching the narrative is the love story of an aspiring opera tenor Giovanni Tempesta and Isabella Monterone, the daughter of a well heeled judge. This is a boy meets girl story, which is a light simple filament that links together the extremely interesting historical sketches of the history of opera that dot the chapters.
The novel is situated primarily in Milan, Italy and the tale follows Giovanni Tempesta along his professional path. It gives an excellent inside view of how the the opera career ladder works, the background of training, access to auditions, and the caprice of opportunity. LeCoco focuses on the Italian opera house La Scala and the history of composers, keying in on Giacomo Puccini and Guiseppe Verdi.
Caruso, La Scala, Puccini, Verdi and many other historical figures are discussed and described in interspersed historical vignettes throughout the novel. This and the explanations of the many operas as well as English translations of Italian lyric quotes are a good reason to read this book.
LoCoco loves the history behind the story and you can tell. He shares tidbit after historical tidbit with the reader. Whether it is the take of how Caruso kicked off the recording industry, Puccini’s discovery of opera after he viewed Aida, or the development of opera from the 1560’s and its connection to Greek sources and Aristotle the author is in fine form as he gives the reader the juicy bits of Opera history. These historical vignette give the non-opera buff a reason to latch on to the subject and wait expectantly for the next historical tale.
Would I recommend you pick up this book for the love story, well no, that is not its strong point, but if you have even a small interest in Opera are willing to put your toe in the operatic waters, would like to understand why someone you know why others like opera, then read this book.
6.4 /10
http://ebooknews.ca/home/2013/11/24/o...
- Author provided reading copy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews