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Dissonance
It was supposed to be about the music.
When faced with nuclear destruction, the United States sprung the big the closing of their borders, shutting down of all social media—oh, and a band contest. That was, the Winds Across America intended to serve as a source of unity and pride for a recently-wounded America. Relieved to finally have his first break as a professional percussionist, anxious Theo Sawyer isn't sure he possesses the skills or confidence to play with some of the best musicians on the team from New York.
While the band navigates the competition and Theo, himself, whispers of resistance threaten to turn Theo’s world on its head. The director’s music choices are denied for a concert without explanation. Mass deportation efforts flood the news. Immigrants disappear without a trace. The media carefully chooses what to cover (and equally, what not to cover) on the news.
Though Theo is only worried about getting the music down, he must decide what’s more important—his own future, or the truth—before it’s too late.
When faced with nuclear destruction, the United States sprung the big the closing of their borders, shutting down of all social media—oh, and a band contest. That was, the Winds Across America intended to serve as a source of unity and pride for a recently-wounded America. Relieved to finally have his first break as a professional percussionist, anxious Theo Sawyer isn't sure he possesses the skills or confidence to play with some of the best musicians on the team from New York.
While the band navigates the competition and Theo, himself, whispers of resistance threaten to turn Theo’s world on its head. The director’s music choices are denied for a concert without explanation. Mass deportation efforts flood the news. Immigrants disappear without a trace. The media carefully chooses what to cover (and equally, what not to cover) on the news.
Though Theo is only worried about getting the music down, he must decide what’s more important—his own future, or the truth—before it’s too late.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2025
4 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
June 19, 2025
If you've ever been part of a musical ensemble—band, orchestra, wind ensemble, whatever—this book is for YOU. Dissonance follows Theo, an anxious and endearingly awkward protagonist you can’t help but root for. He’s learning (aren’t we all?) how to be a good friend, a better musician, and a person who stands for something.
This story doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. It pulses with urgency, weaving in themes that feel incredibly relevant to today’s political climate. There’s this quiet, apocalyptic vibe humming beneath the surface, and it makes every rehearsal/performance feel like an act of survival and defiance.
Some scenes had my heart pounding (still pounding, to be honest). Others made me pause and just sit with the weight of it all. When I finally sat down to binge it, I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. So excited for what's next from Vivienne!
This story doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. It pulses with urgency, weaving in themes that feel incredibly relevant to today’s political climate. There’s this quiet, apocalyptic vibe humming beneath the surface, and it makes every rehearsal/performance feel like an act of survival and defiance.
Some scenes had my heart pounding (still pounding, to be honest). Others made me pause and just sit with the weight of it all. When I finally sat down to binge it, I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. So excited for what's next from Vivienne!
Displaying 1 of 1 review