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Greylock
"Greylock is a thrilling musical tragedy steeped in lore, mythology, and the madness of composition. This book will have you swooning in the aisles." -Richard Thomas, author of Disintegration. "An imaginative, sophisticated read." -Michael Schmicker, author of The Witch of Napoli. "A smart, entertaining supernatural thriller. Think Stephen King meets Raymond Chandler with a score by Tchaikovsky. Briskly paced and yet lovingly detailed . . . a genuine pleasure to read." -David Corbett, author of The Mercy of the Night. Pianist Alexei Georg harbors a dark secret. He discovers an anonymous old sonata in a 19th-century Russian sea chest. But when Alexei performs this music in concert, a creature of darkness appears. The menacing presence haunts Alexei relentlessly, following him from the cloistered circles of Boston's music scene to a whale-song expedition in White Sea of northern Russia. Trapped in an unhappy marriage, Alexei has pursued a steamy affair with the gorgeous Lia Marrs. When his wife is found murdered, Alexei flees Boston to take refuge at an isolated music center on Mt. Greylock in western Massachusetts, determined to compose a new symphony based on the song of the beluga whales. But Alexei cannot flee the unstoppable sonata that he has released into this world. Alone on Greylock, he must find a way to face the dark force within his music or become prisoner to its power. Seductive, haunting, devilish, Greylock is a supernatural mystery by the author of the award-winning The Dazzling Darkness. Author Paula Cappa is the author of two critically acclaimed earlier novels, The Dazzling Darkness and Night Sea Journey. She lives in Pound Ridge, New York.
- GenresParanormalHorror
280 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2015
36 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Paula Cappa
17 books514 followersFor her three novels, Paula Cappa is the recipient of the prestigious Eric Hoffer Book Award, the Gold Medal and the Silver Medal from Global Book Awards, the Bronze Medal from Readers' Favorite International Book Awards, and a Chanticleer Book Award. She is named a Best Book Award Finalist by American Book Fest and achieved the Gothic Readers Book Club Award in Outstanding Fiction.
She is the author of Greylock, The Dazzling Darkness, and Night Sea Journey—print editions published by Crispin Books, Milwaukee WI. Night Sea Journey was featured as an on-air reading at Riverwest Radio, Fearless Reader Radio in Wisconsin.
Cappa’s short fiction has appeared in ParABnormal Literary Magazine, Coffin Bell Literary Journal, Unfading Daydream, Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine, Whistling Shade Literary Journal, SmokeLong Quarterly, Sirens Call Ezine, Every Day Fiction, Fiction365, Twilight Times Ezine, and in anthologies Journals of Horror: Found Fiction, Mystery Time, and Human Writes Literary Journal.
Paula Cappa is a freelance copy editor and writes a short story blog, Reading Fiction, at paulacappa.wordpress.com. She is Co-Chair of the Pound Ridge Authors Society in Pound Ridge, NY.
Follow her Reading Fiction Blog at her website:
https://paulacappa.wordpress.com/
Follow her on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/paula.cappa.94
Follow her on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PaulaCappa1
Amazon Author Page:
https://www.amazon.com/Paula-Cappa/e/...
She is the author of Greylock, The Dazzling Darkness, and Night Sea Journey—print editions published by Crispin Books, Milwaukee WI. Night Sea Journey was featured as an on-air reading at Riverwest Radio, Fearless Reader Radio in Wisconsin.
Cappa’s short fiction has appeared in ParABnormal Literary Magazine, Coffin Bell Literary Journal, Unfading Daydream, Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine, Whistling Shade Literary Journal, SmokeLong Quarterly, Sirens Call Ezine, Every Day Fiction, Fiction365, Twilight Times Ezine, and in anthologies Journals of Horror: Found Fiction, Mystery Time, and Human Writes Literary Journal.
Paula Cappa is a freelance copy editor and writes a short story blog, Reading Fiction, at paulacappa.wordpress.com. She is Co-Chair of the Pound Ridge Authors Society in Pound Ridge, NY.
Follow her Reading Fiction Blog at her website:
https://paulacappa.wordpress.com/
Follow her on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/paula.cappa.94
Follow her on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/PaulaCappa1
Amazon Author Page:
https://www.amazon.com/Paula-Cappa/e/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 23, 2016
Greylock is a sublime work of art, the words in this book swept me off my feet and balanced me on waves of beautiful and intense prose.I will never be the same again. Sometimes an author comes around that is like no other, where their writing stands out as something special, magical and unique. Paula Cappa is such an author. I read her fantastic book This Dazzling Darkness and was equally blown away with the entire journey. If you have not read a book by Paula and you love books, then you need to. This one is a good place to start.
Even the synopsis gives you a glimpse of the power of this novel and the words within it, this is one of those hard reviews to write as it had such an emotional and mental impact, have a taste of the blurb to start:
Murder, lies, romance, betrayal—and the flickering phantasmagoria.
Inside the supernatural realm beats sinister music. Don’t believe it? Just ask violinists Paganini or Tartini about their deals with the devil for their virtuosity. Pianist Alexei Georg harbors a dark secret—he finds an anonymous old sonata in a 19th-century Russian sea chest.
When Alexei performs this handsome music in concert, a creature of darkness appears in the audience, in the aisle, and on the stage with him. This is no ghost. This faceless menacing presence haunts Alexei relentlessly. From Boston’s music society to the White Sea in Russia where the whales sing. Alexei is on a quest for the songs of the beluga whales, so he can compose a whale symphony in hopes of saving his career.
Alexei is married to ballerina Carole Anne but he can’t resist the steamy and delicious Lia Marrs. When Carole Anne is found murdered, Alexei flees Boston and the suspicion of the crime to the summit of Mt. Greylock. He is determined to write his whale symphony from the mountaintop. But Alexei cannot flee the unstoppable sonata that he has delivered into this world. Alone on Greylock, he must find a way to halt the dark force within his music or become prisoner to its phantasmagoric power in an ever-expanding abyss.
A dark entity from beyond enters the world of Pianist Alexai and life will never be the same again, the battle between the mortal self and something that is not of this world has commenced, but who will be the victor and at what price? The plot in this book is spectacular, the chapters where Alexai travel on an ancient Russian ship in search of pods of beautiful Beluga Whales in order to record their amazing singing to compose a symphony is just out of this world. You will be taken away with it, you will be on the ship, you will also be swimming with these magnificent creatures, you will hear the music they make and...you will see the dark, menacing shadowed, feathered figure from the darkness. Stalking, watching, threatening.
Meanwhile back in his hometown of Boston there are murdered bodies and eyes are thrust upon him. The hunt for a serial killer is at work and fingers are pointing in all directions, including at Alexai. From the freezing cold White Sea in Russia to the lonely and isolated mountain location Greylock the book abounds with a sense of underlying tension that keeps you turning the pages, wanting more, hungry for more. I loved everything about this book from the musical descriptions to the ancient Russian legends, but I especially loved the supernatural aspect of the being that enters Alexai's world. You will be fascinated and repulsed all at the same time.
As the battle continues on so many levels the book just gets better and better, one thing is sure when reading a book written by Paula Cappa is that the words themselves wrap themselves around you and don't let go. In my mind she is an undiscovered genius that needs more and more people reading her books, they really are very special. I don't feel I can even do this book justice, it was beautiful, dark, chilling, disturbing, emotional, powerful and unforgettable. This one is a contender to be in my Top Ten Reads.
No doubt about it - 5 stars for this incredible book. Bravo! Paula Cappa has excelled herself with her new novel Greylock and I know it will appeal to readers who enjoy many genres. I hope you will be inspired to read. A stunning book that deserves all the praise it gets. Brilliant.
For more reviews, books to win and author spotlights: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
You can follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
Many thanks to Paula Cappa for sharing a copy of her book with me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Even the synopsis gives you a glimpse of the power of this novel and the words within it, this is one of those hard reviews to write as it had such an emotional and mental impact, have a taste of the blurb to start:
Murder, lies, romance, betrayal—and the flickering phantasmagoria.
Inside the supernatural realm beats sinister music. Don’t believe it? Just ask violinists Paganini or Tartini about their deals with the devil for their virtuosity. Pianist Alexei Georg harbors a dark secret—he finds an anonymous old sonata in a 19th-century Russian sea chest.
When Alexei performs this handsome music in concert, a creature of darkness appears in the audience, in the aisle, and on the stage with him. This is no ghost. This faceless menacing presence haunts Alexei relentlessly. From Boston’s music society to the White Sea in Russia where the whales sing. Alexei is on a quest for the songs of the beluga whales, so he can compose a whale symphony in hopes of saving his career.
Alexei is married to ballerina Carole Anne but he can’t resist the steamy and delicious Lia Marrs. When Carole Anne is found murdered, Alexei flees Boston and the suspicion of the crime to the summit of Mt. Greylock. He is determined to write his whale symphony from the mountaintop. But Alexei cannot flee the unstoppable sonata that he has delivered into this world. Alone on Greylock, he must find a way to halt the dark force within his music or become prisoner to its phantasmagoric power in an ever-expanding abyss.
A dark entity from beyond enters the world of Pianist Alexai and life will never be the same again, the battle between the mortal self and something that is not of this world has commenced, but who will be the victor and at what price? The plot in this book is spectacular, the chapters where Alexai travel on an ancient Russian ship in search of pods of beautiful Beluga Whales in order to record their amazing singing to compose a symphony is just out of this world. You will be taken away with it, you will be on the ship, you will also be swimming with these magnificent creatures, you will hear the music they make and...you will see the dark, menacing shadowed, feathered figure from the darkness. Stalking, watching, threatening.
Meanwhile back in his hometown of Boston there are murdered bodies and eyes are thrust upon him. The hunt for a serial killer is at work and fingers are pointing in all directions, including at Alexai. From the freezing cold White Sea in Russia to the lonely and isolated mountain location Greylock the book abounds with a sense of underlying tension that keeps you turning the pages, wanting more, hungry for more. I loved everything about this book from the musical descriptions to the ancient Russian legends, but I especially loved the supernatural aspect of the being that enters Alexai's world. You will be fascinated and repulsed all at the same time.
As the battle continues on so many levels the book just gets better and better, one thing is sure when reading a book written by Paula Cappa is that the words themselves wrap themselves around you and don't let go. In my mind she is an undiscovered genius that needs more and more people reading her books, they really are very special. I don't feel I can even do this book justice, it was beautiful, dark, chilling, disturbing, emotional, powerful and unforgettable. This one is a contender to be in my Top Ten Reads.
No doubt about it - 5 stars for this incredible book. Bravo! Paula Cappa has excelled herself with her new novel Greylock and I know it will appeal to readers who enjoy many genres. I hope you will be inspired to read. A stunning book that deserves all the praise it gets. Brilliant.
For more reviews, books to win and author spotlights: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
You can follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
Many thanks to Paula Cappa for sharing a copy of her book with me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 9, 2015
The queen of prose is back with her latest novel 'Greylock'. It is quite simply elegant and addictive, like a luxurious coffee. With an intriguing and unusual story Paula proves she has been hard at work, delivering to us, a marvel.
In Boston, there is a killer, offing people in alleys. This has everyone itching with anticipation. Everyone except a certain musician. A murderer is the least of Alexei's problems. A pianist fighting for professional redemption after countless bad press, in hopes of achieving his rather wild dream of recording a whale symphony. I told you it was strange. But his vicious wife is completely against the idea, and is willing to go to extreme lengths to stop his wishes from coming true. If that's not bad enough, Alexei senses a presence whenever he is on-stage, performing to fight for his career, but will the chilling company become more frequent? Will he have to fight for more than his career? Will he manage to attain his professional aspirations? Will he outsmart his wife? Or will she find a way to destroy his livelihood?
There are an abundance of vivid characters. Some we love, others we hate, and some give us shudders. They have been rendered in great detail, as if we are looking at a photograph and not reading words.
The flawless depictions don't end with the characters. Following Alexei we take the scenic route. Restaurants, dance studios, theaters, bars, and so on. Each location detailed down to the spec of dust nestled into a corner. This helps make the mystery all the more real.
Music is a strong component in this novel, clearly the result of years of research. We can hear the notes and grow a new-found appreciation for pianos and musicians. We get an inside look at how the musically blessed fight their artistic struggles.
This is a tale that goes beyond entertainment. It lingers in your mind long after you've finished it, a story not to be forgotten. It will haunt your psyche.
After reading three of Paula's novels, I can say with all honesty that she never fails. It is as if she casts a spell on her fiction, willing us to fall in love with it. But we know better, it is the result of research, intelligence, hard work, passion, and a true gift for writing. What Paula does with words is truly magical, a true art form in all its glory.
Paula ends this masterpiece excellently, with a shocking twist but bittersweet conclusion.
If you are going to read anything before this year ends, make it this!
In Boston, there is a killer, offing people in alleys. This has everyone itching with anticipation. Everyone except a certain musician. A murderer is the least of Alexei's problems. A pianist fighting for professional redemption after countless bad press, in hopes of achieving his rather wild dream of recording a whale symphony. I told you it was strange. But his vicious wife is completely against the idea, and is willing to go to extreme lengths to stop his wishes from coming true. If that's not bad enough, Alexei senses a presence whenever he is on-stage, performing to fight for his career, but will the chilling company become more frequent? Will he have to fight for more than his career? Will he manage to attain his professional aspirations? Will he outsmart his wife? Or will she find a way to destroy his livelihood?
There are an abundance of vivid characters. Some we love, others we hate, and some give us shudders. They have been rendered in great detail, as if we are looking at a photograph and not reading words.
The flawless depictions don't end with the characters. Following Alexei we take the scenic route. Restaurants, dance studios, theaters, bars, and so on. Each location detailed down to the spec of dust nestled into a corner. This helps make the mystery all the more real.
Music is a strong component in this novel, clearly the result of years of research. We can hear the notes and grow a new-found appreciation for pianos and musicians. We get an inside look at how the musically blessed fight their artistic struggles.
This is a tale that goes beyond entertainment. It lingers in your mind long after you've finished it, a story not to be forgotten. It will haunt your psyche.
After reading three of Paula's novels, I can say with all honesty that she never fails. It is as if she casts a spell on her fiction, willing us to fall in love with it. But we know better, it is the result of research, intelligence, hard work, passion, and a true gift for writing. What Paula does with words is truly magical, a true art form in all its glory.
Paula ends this masterpiece excellently, with a shocking twist but bittersweet conclusion.
If you are going to read anything before this year ends, make it this!
October 30, 2015
This was my first Paula Cappa full length piece and it was a nice change of pace from the overly brutal, gruesome and hyper-active pieces I have been reading leading up to it. A Phantom of the Opera for a new era, the first thing to grab you is the beautiful prose and smooth orchestrated pacing. It is rich a fluid, lending a credence to the cast of artistic personalities and artistic monsters.
I was compelled to push for main character Alexi, his plight with fame from a nefarious sonata and desire for his next project and next love. I was also intrigued by the history of his family and his fathers sea chest. It's a nice bit of unraveling storytelling.
The ending itself is great. Not what I was wanting and not what I was expecting but at the same time seemingly obvious, a moment that says "Of course is the way it has to end. You should have seen this coming." But then I did get the ending I wanted. Fin. All is well.
I will absolutely seek out more reads from Paula and I'm glad that this came about at the perfect time to cleanse my pallet.
Note: I also made sure to check out the classical pieces referred to through out the book. Thank you for the introduction to beautiful things I've never listened to.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review. These are my honest feelings. I did not receive any compensation for this review.
ZDubbz is a big dumb animal!
Www.facebook.com/themouthsofmadness
I was compelled to push for main character Alexi, his plight with fame from a nefarious sonata and desire for his next project and next love. I was also intrigued by the history of his family and his fathers sea chest. It's a nice bit of unraveling storytelling.
The ending itself is great. Not what I was wanting and not what I was expecting but at the same time seemingly obvious, a moment that says "Of course is the way it has to end. You should have seen this coming." But then I did get the ending I wanted. Fin. All is well.
I will absolutely seek out more reads from Paula and I'm glad that this came about at the perfect time to cleanse my pallet.
Note: I also made sure to check out the classical pieces referred to through out the book. Thank you for the introduction to beautiful things I've never listened to.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review. These are my honest feelings. I did not receive any compensation for this review.
ZDubbz is a big dumb animal!
Www.facebook.com/themouthsofmadness
October 18, 2015
An Amazon reviewer described Cappa as the queen of prose, and I can certainly see why. I wish I could properly express how much I enjoyed her writing - and I don't even read thrillers! And yet, this is the best-written book I've read in a long while.
Starting with a scene that terrifies the young protagonist, the story then feels like a slow-burning wick: you know there's an explosion coming, you just don't know when - or how much damage it will cause.
Mixing beautifully the paranormal, crime and thriller genres, this is a book that I'm not forgetting any time soon.
Starting with a scene that terrifies the young protagonist, the story then feels like a slow-burning wick: you know there's an explosion coming, you just don't know when - or how much damage it will cause.
Mixing beautifully the paranormal, crime and thriller genres, this is a book that I'm not forgetting any time soon.
October 11, 2015
Interesting read that tells the story of Alexie Georg and includes a lot of strange happenings. I loved the musical connection and the obsession with the white sea whales. The author was able to tell a story of intrigue and also one that looks inside of a person's life and choices. I love the connections that run throughout and keep the reader fascinated as they follow along on a different adventure. Well done.
October 15, 2015
Paula Cappa has a way with words that make this story come to life. Alexie is faced with the murder of his wife. Did he do it? Gripping mystery. Left me guessing. Creepy supernatural scenes that kept me turning the pages. Satisfying ending.
I received this book from the author for an honest review. Thanks, Paula, for a great read.
I received this book from the author for an honest review. Thanks, Paula, for a great read.
October 21, 2015
Greylock’s unique horror style, explores the deep currents of human emotion and compulsion. Like in a Grimm tale, basic life lessons are fleshed out using surprising twists. How far should one go to pursue a dream? An individual’s definition of true happiness, acceptable behavior for the good of society, is explored using classic Goth style with an added modern flair.
Paula Cappa merges old tales of Siberian witches and the other side of life’s river’s flow, with nature’s inexplicable wonders—the music of whales. Bleak settings at the fringe of nature—the eerie woods of Mount Greylock, and the frigid White Sea, keep the story’s tone of horror well defined. Bold characters, larger than life with the loftiest of dreams, lead the reader to jagged truths about humanity.
The author draws the reader into the music world of Alexei, a classical modern composer, who was born into a family with generations of musical history. Old family secrets are the tip of the iceberg. Alexei must dive in deep, not only with whales to write his composition, but also deep into the story behind his most successful piece of music to date. Alexei must choose the kind of person he wants to be.
The protagonist loves Raymond Chandler’s character, Marlowe, which serves as a great correlation. The author also sprinkles in literary quotes and music, which keep the musical tone of the story floating throughout, like a refined brush stroke. The romance that develops between Alexei and Lia also sets a heated stage. Other relationships are also developed, and each character faces some sort of pivot and must choose their fate. Alexei, and his family and friends, each grow or change by the end. This is an excellent, moving story. Bravo!
Paula Cappa merges old tales of Siberian witches and the other side of life’s river’s flow, with nature’s inexplicable wonders—the music of whales. Bleak settings at the fringe of nature—the eerie woods of Mount Greylock, and the frigid White Sea, keep the story’s tone of horror well defined. Bold characters, larger than life with the loftiest of dreams, lead the reader to jagged truths about humanity.
The author draws the reader into the music world of Alexei, a classical modern composer, who was born into a family with generations of musical history. Old family secrets are the tip of the iceberg. Alexei must dive in deep, not only with whales to write his composition, but also deep into the story behind his most successful piece of music to date. Alexei must choose the kind of person he wants to be.
The protagonist loves Raymond Chandler’s character, Marlowe, which serves as a great correlation. The author also sprinkles in literary quotes and music, which keep the musical tone of the story floating throughout, like a refined brush stroke. The romance that develops between Alexei and Lia also sets a heated stage. Other relationships are also developed, and each character faces some sort of pivot and must choose their fate. Alexei, and his family and friends, each grow or change by the end. This is an excellent, moving story. Bravo!
November 15, 2015
GREYLOCK is an exquisite symphony of musical prose. It feeds the senses while engaging the mind. I was immediately enamored of this book because it is a tale of music and whales and murder without actual mayhem. This is a murder mystery where the cerebral aspects of planning are far more interesting than the execution or solution.
Like Boston, Mount Greylock is a real place tucked away in the northwest corner of Massachusetts. It is the highest natural point in the state. These very real places play host to Alexei Georg, composer, pianist and former US Navy submariner who is on a passionate quest to compose his whale symphony. He is haunted by the songs of beluga whales and so much more.
There is a supernatural element at work here. It is woven into the fabric of the tale like a gossamer thread. Into this phantasmagoria, so subtle, I was drawn into believing that folklore is real, that personal demons can take on corporeal substance, and that human beings are so multidimensional as to be truly unfathomable.
I have said it before (if you follow my reviews), and I will say it again... I love beautiful prose. GREYLOCK is a fine example of such writing. While reading, I take note of editorial gaffs. I can't say that I found any here, and I must tip my hat to Ms Cappa for using the word 'whomever' correctly. In the modern world of shortcut writing... text messages, Twitter, email... the bottom line is that we need writers that can pass on the beauty of words used correctly.
In GREYLOCK, Paula Cappa has written an experience to be savored and remembered.
(I received my copy of GREYLOCK from the author in exchange for a review.)
Like Boston, Mount Greylock is a real place tucked away in the northwest corner of Massachusetts. It is the highest natural point in the state. These very real places play host to Alexei Georg, composer, pianist and former US Navy submariner who is on a passionate quest to compose his whale symphony. He is haunted by the songs of beluga whales and so much more.
There is a supernatural element at work here. It is woven into the fabric of the tale like a gossamer thread. Into this phantasmagoria, so subtle, I was drawn into believing that folklore is real, that personal demons can take on corporeal substance, and that human beings are so multidimensional as to be truly unfathomable.
I have said it before (if you follow my reviews), and I will say it again... I love beautiful prose. GREYLOCK is a fine example of such writing. While reading, I take note of editorial gaffs. I can't say that I found any here, and I must tip my hat to Ms Cappa for using the word 'whomever' correctly. In the modern world of shortcut writing... text messages, Twitter, email... the bottom line is that we need writers that can pass on the beauty of words used correctly.
In GREYLOCK, Paula Cappa has written an experience to be savored and remembered.
(I received my copy of GREYLOCK from the author in exchange for a review.)
January 3, 2016
Greylock is a stunning masterpiece of innovative horror. Award-winning author Paula Kappa delivers a virtuoso performance in fiction, with characters you'll care deeply about and sinister evil that will trouble your sleep for a long time to come.
Composer and classical concert pianist Alexei Georg has a dream: to put the music of the beluga whales off Russia's coast into a musical composition for piano and symphony orchestra. Only two things are stopping him: a shrewish wife and a black apparition that haunts his recent performances.
His lover, radio meteorologist Lia Marrs, wants very much to believe that Alexei will be successful in his bid to divorce the diabolical Carole Anne, but his soon-to-be ex-wife has a secret she's holding over his head -- the revelation that his signature composition "October" was, in fact, written over a hundred years earlier by someone else.
He travels to the icy waters where the whales are known to sing their eerie songs, and encounters a female Russian shaman who alternately intrigues him and terrifies him with her enigmatic interpretations.
Then, Carole Anne's murder throws things into turmoil as Alexei, suspected of the crime, flees to remote Mount Greylock, still pursued by the dark phantom.
This inspired story of the creative process, and the lengths to which a composer might go to realize his dream, is at once cautionary and revealing. Who can say what dark muses we all might entreat to achieve our artistic aims and aspirations?
Five well-earned stars to Greylock. I've not seen anything like it since Hitchcock and duMaurier gave us The Birds.
Composer and classical concert pianist Alexei Georg has a dream: to put the music of the beluga whales off Russia's coast into a musical composition for piano and symphony orchestra. Only two things are stopping him: a shrewish wife and a black apparition that haunts his recent performances.
His lover, radio meteorologist Lia Marrs, wants very much to believe that Alexei will be successful in his bid to divorce the diabolical Carole Anne, but his soon-to-be ex-wife has a secret she's holding over his head -- the revelation that his signature composition "October" was, in fact, written over a hundred years earlier by someone else.
He travels to the icy waters where the whales are known to sing their eerie songs, and encounters a female Russian shaman who alternately intrigues him and terrifies him with her enigmatic interpretations.
Then, Carole Anne's murder throws things into turmoil as Alexei, suspected of the crime, flees to remote Mount Greylock, still pursued by the dark phantom.
This inspired story of the creative process, and the lengths to which a composer might go to realize his dream, is at once cautionary and revealing. Who can say what dark muses we all might entreat to achieve our artistic aims and aspirations?
Five well-earned stars to Greylock. I've not seen anything like it since Hitchcock and duMaurier gave us The Birds.
November 3, 2015
Greylock is a mesmerizing tale that is composed like an eloquent symphony. Author Paula Cappa is the composer that handles the characters and plot with finesse. Prose within these pages will linger and haunt you deep into the night. It’s a mashup of music,fiction, and the supernatural; and I love every single page!
Pianist Alexei Georg is seeking to record the songs of a pod of Beluga white whales. While on his journey a shaman notices a dark entity holding onto his soul. Now Alexei runs away from his ex, the darkness inside him, and society straight to Mount Greylock.
The only draw back to “Greylock”(and this is a small quibble), I feel some of the passages are drawn out and could be summed up in a fewer amount of words. it makes up for that with great descriptions,characters and dialog. Author Paula Cappa has written an engaging and worthwhile read that could be the story of the year.
Pianist Alexei Georg is seeking to record the songs of a pod of Beluga white whales. While on his journey a shaman notices a dark entity holding onto his soul. Now Alexei runs away from his ex, the darkness inside him, and society straight to Mount Greylock.
The only draw back to “Greylock”(and this is a small quibble), I feel some of the passages are drawn out and could be summed up in a fewer amount of words. it makes up for that with great descriptions,characters and dialog. Author Paula Cappa has written an engaging and worthwhile read that could be the story of the year.
October 27, 2016
This book has a chilling ghostly feel to it in some of the scarier scenes, and also has so much more going for it. There is a man trying to reach his life goals, a love story, jealousy, rage, murder, and more. The part I liked the most about this book is the characters. Each one of them is so different, but for much of the book, you have no idea who you can trust. I especially like Lia since she is really straightforward in a narrative that is full of people that have many secrets. The fact that Alexei is interested in whale songs and making music with them is very interesting, and the end is something I wasn’t expecting. This is a great thriller, but it also has elements of a mystery story, especially with the Philip Marlowe references, as well as others. Check it out if you are a fan of psychological fiction.
October 24, 2015
This book was a very interesting, very different horror story. I enjoyed the Goth-like style. I loved the book. At first I thought the book was going to be a bit strange but once I understood what the author was doing I enjoyed the book. I don't find unique books every day. I loved the twists and turns the book took me on as well. I was on the edge of my seat with this book. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
November 4, 2015
This was a pleasant surprise for me. Before I read Grey Lock, the darkest, most gothic book I had the pleasure of reading was A Density of Souls by Christopher Rice. Paula Cappa is very talented and takes chances with twists that another author probably wouldn't take, and the effect is an entirely engrossing read. If you want to waste a night away, buy this book and start as soon as you can. Seriously one of the best reads of the year.
February 16, 2017
Paula Cappa is a master of metaphysical mystery an extraordinary and original storyteller of acclaim. Truly an outstanding read: I have also read her short story ' The Magic of the Loons' before this book and my review comment was: " The author has magic in her words."
Excerpt from Greylock:
"Flashings. Blurs of light. A kaleidoscope. Can you hear? Dad? I’m playing for you. Just like you play Tchaikovsky. Vibrations spun over Alexei’s body. Lively sound waves pulsed through his hands, throbbed into his left rib, a pleasant tingling. He inhaled the concerto’s warm tones. He swallowed the bright rhythms, his belly filling. Every chord tasted smoky. Octaves evaporated into aromas of melting candy, razzes and dives and creamy crescendos"
Why read her novels?
Greylock by Paula Cappa is Gothic Supernatural Classical Music Mystery - If music and sound is your life, this book is a must. She uses the forces of nature, water, light and darkness, sound, movement , visions....fascinatingly emerging and merging man with nature and the supernatural.
Birds:
"Behind Josef, a woman screamed. He turned. A bird, with a wingspan of almost two feet, swung up to the ceiling. Josef crouched down like everyone else. ......."Lexie didn’t move a muscle, his vision following the bird. Everyone dashed in wild circles, screaming, shoving, tripping over each other. “How did that get in here? Tim and others tried to direct the bird to the doorway, but it darted ceiling to floor, like some jet bomber. It zoomed the tables then dove down, skidding into a landing."
Finally the bird found the archway out and escaped. Howard wiped his brow with his handkerchief.....How weird. Must have been one of those psycho-pomps. You know, escorts to the afterlife.”
What will you find within this book?
Starting with the gothic feel of the storyline, even within a contemporary setting, she adds selected classical music, to support, and add a supernatural character to become the horror monster in this mystery . It's fascinating, commanding, powerful and scary.
You just want to quote from her work: it is so beautiful.
"He obeyed his aunt. Nine years old......With trembling fingers, Alexei Georg began Tchaikovsky’s Concerto Number One. He stumbled on the opening, failing to create the thundering chords, then stopped and began again. He hadn’t perfected the power of this concerto yet, but he knew his father loved it best. This will soothe him. Soaring though the allegro movement, Alexei enjoyed the familiar thrill of the music. The splendid harmonies urged him on as his fingers jumped across the keyboard. His father’s voice repeated in his mind.
All the world is music, my Lexie. Go inside the notes. The allegro movement would thrill his father too and make him open his eyes. What phantom? Auntie was just being Auntie. Tchaikovsky’s concerto would soothe his sick heart. The clear notes would send the phantom away. Dad would wake up smiling and say, Bravo, my boy, bravo. Music filled the house up to its gables. Resplendent notes played like spheres before Alexei’s eyes. Chasing one after the other. "
"Flashings. Blurs of light. A kaleidoscope. Can you hear? Dad? I’m playing for you. Just like you play Tchaikovsky. Vibrations spun over Alexei’s body. Lively sound waves pulsed through his hands, throbbed into his left rib, a pleasant tingling. He inhaled the concerto’s warm tones. He swallowed the bright rhythms, his belly filling. Every chord tasted smoky. Octaves evaporated into aromas of melting candy—razzes and dives and creamy crescendos."
"A beat later the music jammed. Choked to a dead stop. What did he do? Become the music, Lexie. Believe. He hit the white keys. Nothing. He slammed the black keys. Nothing. What happened? A hammer stick? Again he pressed. Every key resisted. Demanding the piano to obey, Alexei struck the stubborn keys once more. “Come on. I believe!” The keys held like bricks in mortar. Why won’t it play? His fingers slid recklessly above the locked keys. "
“Please.” He fisted up his hands with a hard shake. “Play.” Air flashed behind him. The concerto rolled forth. Sweeps and crescendos blasted. Glistening sounds broke over his head. He stared at his fists rigid above the piano keys. How was the concerto playing without him? Rhythms hammered down. Vibrations shook the wood floor and wall paintings, nearly cracking the old plaster. The very air soared with music.
and then...... “What did I do? What’s happening? Dad! Make it stop!” The concerto halted. "
Alexei was moving out from his home and his marriage... he knew it was going to be difficult...and he found that it was much more than he realized... Carole Anne would never let him leave her and she'd make sure of that! Alexei's character is sympathetic but also a little cavalier. His career has never really gone as he thought it would, until he first played the October Sonata....But there was a secret about the October Sonata and Alexei had shared it with Carole Anne when they'd first been married, now she was threatening him, and was even, he later found, selling the exclusive piece to other pianists...
But that wasn't the only thing about the October Sonata. The best way to say it was that it was cursed...And when Alexei played it for the first time in public...It had awakened...
Alexei asked. “Why is that? Why don’t you have a face, Varlok?” .......the phantom responded:
“It was taken from me. When they seized my vision. I will not take your face when I seize yours.”
“You’re disgusting. What world spawned you?” “I come here at the conjuring.”
“I never conjured you!”
“You did. With every note of October. With every performance. Ahh, the timelessness of music.
And then Carole Anne was murdered, both carotid arteries slashed in a checkmark. But she wasn't the only one who had been killed this way. There had been three others...
Fortunately, Alexei had been awarded the opportunity to travel to Russia and record the whale song for his proposed symphony, but the officer in charge of the case believed he was responsible... and there had been time for him to do it before he'd left, but he provided an alibi...
The belugas sang in streams of buzzes, clicks, and shrieks. Alexei followed a down sweep of trills. He mapped the notes and intervals. One whale whooped like a tiger’s growl. More sweeps and double sweeps. The songs went on nearly thirty minutes. The whales might have been applauding themselves. “They’re beneath us, really deep. God, I wish I could see them. I’m dying to see them.” Alexei leaned over the stern...
These musical marvels stirred the sea like a bowl of silk. What would that feel like? The sea and songs, the whales and sun? “I’m going in.” He tossed off his sneakers and jacket.
“No, Mister Georg. Vater too cold,” Shemiossa warned.
Cold? Whales had the hottest blood of all! And right now their bodies were warming the sea with every flip, calling the sun inside every wave. Alexei dove in. Ahhhh, like swimming in warmed cream. Buzzes and trills, screams and whoops. Treble strings stretched high. Was that a fragment of a scale in that call? The hydrophone hung from the ship’s hull. Had he pressed record? He did, of course he did. Pay attention! He came up for air inside this great sea of the oldest hierarchies.
Cappa's research on this book obviously has been extensive and she weaves a web of jealousy and intrigue even without adding the supernatural element. There are plenty of suspects in the murders, without involving Alexei, including those known and close to him.
There is even romance as Alexei hooks up with a local news rep , Lia, who seems to be perfect for him... But when everything starts coming out she is caught between the gossip from a former boyfriend/cop who's saying Alexei is about to be arrested and what her feelings are for Alexei.
Have to say that what is creating havoc for Alexei and those caught in the supernatural component brings the most excitement and suspense to the novel. It brings the horror of The Raven and The Birds.
I have to now add Cappa to my favorite author' s list, just on the basis of this book...and for me, this work is excellent and highly recommended.
Scarlett Jensen ,
14 February 2017
Excerpt from Greylock:
"Flashings. Blurs of light. A kaleidoscope. Can you hear? Dad? I’m playing for you. Just like you play Tchaikovsky. Vibrations spun over Alexei’s body. Lively sound waves pulsed through his hands, throbbed into his left rib, a pleasant tingling. He inhaled the concerto’s warm tones. He swallowed the bright rhythms, his belly filling. Every chord tasted smoky. Octaves evaporated into aromas of melting candy, razzes and dives and creamy crescendos"
Why read her novels?
Greylock by Paula Cappa is Gothic Supernatural Classical Music Mystery - If music and sound is your life, this book is a must. She uses the forces of nature, water, light and darkness, sound, movement , visions....fascinatingly emerging and merging man with nature and the supernatural.
Birds:
"Behind Josef, a woman screamed. He turned. A bird, with a wingspan of almost two feet, swung up to the ceiling. Josef crouched down like everyone else. ......."Lexie didn’t move a muscle, his vision following the bird. Everyone dashed in wild circles, screaming, shoving, tripping over each other. “How did that get in here? Tim and others tried to direct the bird to the doorway, but it darted ceiling to floor, like some jet bomber. It zoomed the tables then dove down, skidding into a landing."
Finally the bird found the archway out and escaped. Howard wiped his brow with his handkerchief.....How weird. Must have been one of those psycho-pomps. You know, escorts to the afterlife.”
What will you find within this book?
Starting with the gothic feel of the storyline, even within a contemporary setting, she adds selected classical music, to support, and add a supernatural character to become the horror monster in this mystery . It's fascinating, commanding, powerful and scary.
You just want to quote from her work: it is so beautiful.
"He obeyed his aunt. Nine years old......With trembling fingers, Alexei Georg began Tchaikovsky’s Concerto Number One. He stumbled on the opening, failing to create the thundering chords, then stopped and began again. He hadn’t perfected the power of this concerto yet, but he knew his father loved it best. This will soothe him. Soaring though the allegro movement, Alexei enjoyed the familiar thrill of the music. The splendid harmonies urged him on as his fingers jumped across the keyboard. His father’s voice repeated in his mind.
All the world is music, my Lexie. Go inside the notes. The allegro movement would thrill his father too and make him open his eyes. What phantom? Auntie was just being Auntie. Tchaikovsky’s concerto would soothe his sick heart. The clear notes would send the phantom away. Dad would wake up smiling and say, Bravo, my boy, bravo. Music filled the house up to its gables. Resplendent notes played like spheres before Alexei’s eyes. Chasing one after the other. "
"Flashings. Blurs of light. A kaleidoscope. Can you hear? Dad? I’m playing for you. Just like you play Tchaikovsky. Vibrations spun over Alexei’s body. Lively sound waves pulsed through his hands, throbbed into his left rib, a pleasant tingling. He inhaled the concerto’s warm tones. He swallowed the bright rhythms, his belly filling. Every chord tasted smoky. Octaves evaporated into aromas of melting candy—razzes and dives and creamy crescendos."
"A beat later the music jammed. Choked to a dead stop. What did he do? Become the music, Lexie. Believe. He hit the white keys. Nothing. He slammed the black keys. Nothing. What happened? A hammer stick? Again he pressed. Every key resisted. Demanding the piano to obey, Alexei struck the stubborn keys once more. “Come on. I believe!” The keys held like bricks in mortar. Why won’t it play? His fingers slid recklessly above the locked keys. "
“Please.” He fisted up his hands with a hard shake. “Play.” Air flashed behind him. The concerto rolled forth. Sweeps and crescendos blasted. Glistening sounds broke over his head. He stared at his fists rigid above the piano keys. How was the concerto playing without him? Rhythms hammered down. Vibrations shook the wood floor and wall paintings, nearly cracking the old plaster. The very air soared with music.
and then...... “What did I do? What’s happening? Dad! Make it stop!” The concerto halted. "
Alexei was moving out from his home and his marriage... he knew it was going to be difficult...and he found that it was much more than he realized... Carole Anne would never let him leave her and she'd make sure of that! Alexei's character is sympathetic but also a little cavalier. His career has never really gone as he thought it would, until he first played the October Sonata....But there was a secret about the October Sonata and Alexei had shared it with Carole Anne when they'd first been married, now she was threatening him, and was even, he later found, selling the exclusive piece to other pianists...
But that wasn't the only thing about the October Sonata. The best way to say it was that it was cursed...And when Alexei played it for the first time in public...It had awakened...
Alexei asked. “Why is that? Why don’t you have a face, Varlok?” .......the phantom responded:
“It was taken from me. When they seized my vision. I will not take your face when I seize yours.”
“You’re disgusting. What world spawned you?” “I come here at the conjuring.”
“I never conjured you!”
“You did. With every note of October. With every performance. Ahh, the timelessness of music.
And then Carole Anne was murdered, both carotid arteries slashed in a checkmark. But she wasn't the only one who had been killed this way. There had been three others...
Fortunately, Alexei had been awarded the opportunity to travel to Russia and record the whale song for his proposed symphony, but the officer in charge of the case believed he was responsible... and there had been time for him to do it before he'd left, but he provided an alibi...
The belugas sang in streams of buzzes, clicks, and shrieks. Alexei followed a down sweep of trills. He mapped the notes and intervals. One whale whooped like a tiger’s growl. More sweeps and double sweeps. The songs went on nearly thirty minutes. The whales might have been applauding themselves. “They’re beneath us, really deep. God, I wish I could see them. I’m dying to see them.” Alexei leaned over the stern...
These musical marvels stirred the sea like a bowl of silk. What would that feel like? The sea and songs, the whales and sun? “I’m going in.” He tossed off his sneakers and jacket.
“No, Mister Georg. Vater too cold,” Shemiossa warned.
Cold? Whales had the hottest blood of all! And right now their bodies were warming the sea with every flip, calling the sun inside every wave. Alexei dove in. Ahhhh, like swimming in warmed cream. Buzzes and trills, screams and whoops. Treble strings stretched high. Was that a fragment of a scale in that call? The hydrophone hung from the ship’s hull. Had he pressed record? He did, of course he did. Pay attention! He came up for air inside this great sea of the oldest hierarchies.
Cappa's research on this book obviously has been extensive and she weaves a web of jealousy and intrigue even without adding the supernatural element. There are plenty of suspects in the murders, without involving Alexei, including those known and close to him.
There is even romance as Alexei hooks up with a local news rep , Lia, who seems to be perfect for him... But when everything starts coming out she is caught between the gossip from a former boyfriend/cop who's saying Alexei is about to be arrested and what her feelings are for Alexei.
Have to say that what is creating havoc for Alexei and those caught in the supernatural component brings the most excitement and suspense to the novel. It brings the horror of The Raven and The Birds.
I have to now add Cappa to my favorite author' s list, just on the basis of this book...and for me, this work is excellent and highly recommended.
Scarlett Jensen ,
14 February 2017
November 30, 2016
*I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Greylock has a very unique and intriguing premise--Alexei Georg is a pianist and composer who unwittingly awakens a dark supernatural power when he discovers a sonata called "October" in an old sea chest and passes it off as his own composition. Now, as he tries to create a new composition inspired by whale songs, he is instead haunted by the mistakes of his and his family's past. The story blends elements of crime thriller (there is a serial killer on the loose), romance, and paranormal fantasy while also exploring subjects like musical composition, the social lives of professional performers, and the habits of beluga whales.
I have to say, I had some trouble getting into this book, mainly because I strongly disliked the main character. He hates his wife, frequently going into detail about how he would like to murder her and at times actually getting physically aggressive with her. Sure, she's not a nice person either, but that doesn't excuse his violent fantasies and and actions. Then, when his wife is murdered, he shows little remorse except for the vague worry that he will be pegged as the culprit. Solidifying my poor opinion of Alexei and his relationships with women were the many instances in which he gaslights his girlfriend Lia in an attempt to continue hooking up with her while hiding the supernatural things going on around him.
I can appreciate the value of a flawed character, but Alexei doesn't appear to change and grow in any of the areas that particularly bothered me by the end of the book, which has the effect of seemingly condoning his behavior. Also, disliking him made it very hard for me to care about and root for him to complete his whale symphony and stave off the demon creature haunting and tempting him.
My favorite aspects of the book were the supernatural elements, and I especially enjoyed the inclusion of Russian folklore and the character of Alexei's spiritual guide, Shemiossa. The overall concept of the story was very Faustian, which I always enjoy. I feel like the book tried to do too many things, though, and the supernatural elements didn't get as much time as they perhaps should have. Overall, I liked many of the concepts of the book, but the character of Alexei prevented me from truly enjoying it.
Greylock has a very unique and intriguing premise--Alexei Georg is a pianist and composer who unwittingly awakens a dark supernatural power when he discovers a sonata called "October" in an old sea chest and passes it off as his own composition. Now, as he tries to create a new composition inspired by whale songs, he is instead haunted by the mistakes of his and his family's past. The story blends elements of crime thriller (there is a serial killer on the loose), romance, and paranormal fantasy while also exploring subjects like musical composition, the social lives of professional performers, and the habits of beluga whales.
I have to say, I had some trouble getting into this book, mainly because I strongly disliked the main character. He hates his wife, frequently going into detail about how he would like to murder her and at times actually getting physically aggressive with her. Sure, she's not a nice person either, but that doesn't excuse his violent fantasies and and actions. Then, when his wife is murdered, he shows little remorse except for the vague worry that he will be pegged as the culprit. Solidifying my poor opinion of Alexei and his relationships with women were the many instances in which he gaslights his girlfriend Lia in an attempt to continue hooking up with her while hiding the supernatural things going on around him.
I can appreciate the value of a flawed character, but Alexei doesn't appear to change and grow in any of the areas that particularly bothered me by the end of the book, which has the effect of seemingly condoning his behavior. Also, disliking him made it very hard for me to care about and root for him to complete his whale symphony and stave off the demon creature haunting and tempting him.
My favorite aspects of the book were the supernatural elements, and I especially enjoyed the inclusion of Russian folklore and the character of Alexei's spiritual guide, Shemiossa. The overall concept of the story was very Faustian, which I always enjoy. I feel like the book tried to do too many things, though, and the supernatural elements didn't get as much time as they perhaps should have. Overall, I liked many of the concepts of the book, but the character of Alexei prevented me from truly enjoying it.
May 9, 2019
Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts and also, supposedly, the inspiration for Melville's classic sea story MOBY DICK. Since I live directly under Greylock and write mystery fiction myself, I couldn't help but be attracted to Paula Caffa's mystery about the mountain, classical music and Beluga whales. FULL DISCLOSURE: I am currently writing a screenplay about a classical pianist studying at Williams College and have been reading music-related mysteries nonstop for the past eight months.
So when I spotted Greylock on Amazon, I was immediately hooked by the rich and strange blend of story elements. But after actually reading the novel, which I thoroughly recommend to fellow mystery buffs, I must say the promo text is perhaps too understated. Caffa's GREYLOCK is far more strange than the book blurb suggests, stirring together the murder of a Boston ballerina, a demonic blind composer, a powerful Siberian shaman, plagiarism, time travel, as well as singing, swimming, and flying whales.
Alexei George is already a successful composer whose signature "October Concerto" is celebrated in Boston music circles, but he is now as obsessed as Melville's Captain Ahab to compose a grand symphony based on personally recording the songs of the Beluga whales in the desolate Russian White Sea. Shockingly, his ballerina wife is brutally murdered on the very eve of his departure to hunt down these mystical singing arctic mammals. But, like Ahab, Alexei is fatefully drawn away to follow the nomadic White Sea whales and continue his quest to compose a masterpiece.
Once the whales' songs are captured on tape, Alexei retreats into an isolated winter residence on Mt. Greylock to compose his whale symphony. But he is haunted by the possibility that his concerto played a role in his wife death. And by circumstantial evidence that has made him the prime suspect in her murder investigation.
Alone on the mountaintop, Alexei pursues the beauty of his "stolen" music as both natural and supernatural forces threaten to resolve the eerie concerto of ambition, murder and spiritual blindness.
GREYLOCK is an extraordinary book about an extraordinary mountain in the northern Bershires. Reading it is almost as much fun as climbing the mountain. I suggest you do both before the 20,000 acre Greylock State Reservation closes again in October.
So when I spotted Greylock on Amazon, I was immediately hooked by the rich and strange blend of story elements. But after actually reading the novel, which I thoroughly recommend to fellow mystery buffs, I must say the promo text is perhaps too understated. Caffa's GREYLOCK is far more strange than the book blurb suggests, stirring together the murder of a Boston ballerina, a demonic blind composer, a powerful Siberian shaman, plagiarism, time travel, as well as singing, swimming, and flying whales.
Alexei George is already a successful composer whose signature "October Concerto" is celebrated in Boston music circles, but he is now as obsessed as Melville's Captain Ahab to compose a grand symphony based on personally recording the songs of the Beluga whales in the desolate Russian White Sea. Shockingly, his ballerina wife is brutally murdered on the very eve of his departure to hunt down these mystical singing arctic mammals. But, like Ahab, Alexei is fatefully drawn away to follow the nomadic White Sea whales and continue his quest to compose a masterpiece.
Once the whales' songs are captured on tape, Alexei retreats into an isolated winter residence on Mt. Greylock to compose his whale symphony. But he is haunted by the possibility that his concerto played a role in his wife death. And by circumstantial evidence that has made him the prime suspect in her murder investigation.
Alone on the mountaintop, Alexei pursues the beauty of his "stolen" music as both natural and supernatural forces threaten to resolve the eerie concerto of ambition, murder and spiritual blindness.
GREYLOCK is an extraordinary book about an extraordinary mountain in the northern Bershires. Reading it is almost as much fun as climbing the mountain. I suggest you do both before the 20,000 acre Greylock State Reservation closes again in October.
March 9, 2017
Alexei Georg was born to be a famous musician, his father was a pianist and Alexei’s only desire was to follow in his footsteps. Alexei has created a name for himself by writing and performing a sonata called October. At least that’s what people believe, Alexei has a dark secret. He found the sonata in an old 19th century Russian sea chest. When he performs it a dark creature appears and stalks him and now his career is going downhill.
To make matters worse Alexei is having an affair and his wife has been murdered with the evidence pointing to him. In order to revive his career Alexei plans to write a symphony based on the songs of the beluga whales while in isolation on Mt. Greylock. Though even alone on the mountain he can’t escape the creature that he has brought into the world or the accusations of murder. Alexei must face the darkness he has unleashed or it could use him as a conduit forever.
Greylock by Paula Cappa is a supernatural murder mystery where mythology and music create a dark mood. The music itself is like a character and what and how something is being played has an effect on everyone else in the book. It’s through the music that evil gets unleashed, but it’s also how Alexei expresses his emotions. Music is his life and it’s what makes him happy, even if some think he is not really that good at it. Alexei is a complicated character, at first I found I didn’t like him because he is having an affair, talks about murdering his wife and he is lying about the music he creates. Though as you get to know him you see him as someone who wants to live up to the family legacy and is willing to do anything to do so. This is a need that’s easy to relate to. By the end of the book you see a very different Alexei then you see a the beginning and its the character’s transformation that makes the book memorable.
Another thing I liked about Greylock was how the mystery unfolds. there are two different mysteries going on at the same time and in the case of the murder mystery there were times in the story where I was pretty sure that three different people were the murderer but I was wrong each time. This was enough to hold my interest throughout and the other mystery of who the dark entity is was just as compelling.
Greylock is not your average horror novel, it’s more personal. There is no over the top violence but you see Alexei deal with such personal horrors as abandonment, betrayal, wanting something he can’t have, his own insecurities as a musician and his need for fame. On a smaller level we also see the other characters in the book deal with the same issues and see what different paths their choices lead them in. Greylock is the kind of book you may have to read twice to catch all the subtle details, it’s about creating a mood and not in your face like some horror is. If you enjoy a good supernatural mystery then you should check it out.
To make matters worse Alexei is having an affair and his wife has been murdered with the evidence pointing to him. In order to revive his career Alexei plans to write a symphony based on the songs of the beluga whales while in isolation on Mt. Greylock. Though even alone on the mountain he can’t escape the creature that he has brought into the world or the accusations of murder. Alexei must face the darkness he has unleashed or it could use him as a conduit forever.
Greylock by Paula Cappa is a supernatural murder mystery where mythology and music create a dark mood. The music itself is like a character and what and how something is being played has an effect on everyone else in the book. It’s through the music that evil gets unleashed, but it’s also how Alexei expresses his emotions. Music is his life and it’s what makes him happy, even if some think he is not really that good at it. Alexei is a complicated character, at first I found I didn’t like him because he is having an affair, talks about murdering his wife and he is lying about the music he creates. Though as you get to know him you see him as someone who wants to live up to the family legacy and is willing to do anything to do so. This is a need that’s easy to relate to. By the end of the book you see a very different Alexei then you see a the beginning and its the character’s transformation that makes the book memorable.
Another thing I liked about Greylock was how the mystery unfolds. there are two different mysteries going on at the same time and in the case of the murder mystery there were times in the story where I was pretty sure that three different people were the murderer but I was wrong each time. This was enough to hold my interest throughout and the other mystery of who the dark entity is was just as compelling.
Greylock is not your average horror novel, it’s more personal. There is no over the top violence but you see Alexei deal with such personal horrors as abandonment, betrayal, wanting something he can’t have, his own insecurities as a musician and his need for fame. On a smaller level we also see the other characters in the book deal with the same issues and see what different paths their choices lead them in. Greylock is the kind of book you may have to read twice to catch all the subtle details, it’s about creating a mood and not in your face like some horror is. If you enjoy a good supernatural mystery then you should check it out.
August 4, 2017
Greylock is a beautifully-written supernatural mystery piece steeped in a culture of fine arts. Fantastically researched, the characters seem natural and alive, truly at home in the subjects they are portrayed to be learned in. In this way, there are no visible shortcuts taken in Greylock, Paula Cappa’s worldliness shows through in the portrayal of characters who are full, knowledgeable, but human and, therefore, flawed; Greylock is not the story for cartoonish jack-of-all trades.
Kappa’s strength for prose certainly shows through in her detailed and emotive descriptions of environment. Locations are felt as well as seen, and the world of Greylock is one of conflicting and struggling emotions, echoing outward from the imperfect and struggling cast of characters. Dialogue stands out above all else in Greylock, betraying a mastery of language and natural speech that is rare and truly refreshing to find. I recommend this piece wholeheartedly, especially for those who, like myself, have an appreciation for gazing through a character’s eyes at a world that would otherwise be secret, if not for a masterful writer holding the door for us.
Kappa’s strength for prose certainly shows through in her detailed and emotive descriptions of environment. Locations are felt as well as seen, and the world of Greylock is one of conflicting and struggling emotions, echoing outward from the imperfect and struggling cast of characters. Dialogue stands out above all else in Greylock, betraying a mastery of language and natural speech that is rare and truly refreshing to find. I recommend this piece wholeheartedly, especially for those who, like myself, have an appreciation for gazing through a character’s eyes at a world that would otherwise be secret, if not for a masterful writer holding the door for us.
June 29, 2017
In a word, I would describe this book as “haunting”. While reading Greylock in my mind's eye there was a dark, “series of unfortunate events”, filter over the story. It seems like an interesting intersection of fantasy and horror. Paula Cappa does an incredible job of creating a very specific setting and mood, which is consistent throughout the entire novel.
I found Alexei especially compelling for a number of reasons and there is a lot to unpack in this story. But one aspect I enjoyed was his career and his path to writing music. You hear about the troubled artist and how deeply passionate they feel about their craft. How they come up with their sounds is a mystery. Whales being Alexei’s muse is beautiful. It is something most can relate too on some level. Hearing the sounds of nature and finding it beautiful. Not only is this an especially romantic concept to think about, but Paula writes in a way that makes you want to hear the music and feel what the characters feel. Well...to a certain point.
I found Alexei especially compelling for a number of reasons and there is a lot to unpack in this story. But one aspect I enjoyed was his career and his path to writing music. You hear about the troubled artist and how deeply passionate they feel about their craft. How they come up with their sounds is a mystery. Whales being Alexei’s muse is beautiful. It is something most can relate too on some level. Hearing the sounds of nature and finding it beautiful. Not only is this an especially romantic concept to think about, but Paula writes in a way that makes you want to hear the music and feel what the characters feel. Well...to a certain point.
November 26, 2017
Greylock by Paula Cappa twists music, horror, and mystery into a concoction that will have you turning the page just to see what happens next. This dark mystery had me sitting bolt upright in bed as I tried to piece together what was happening to Alexei as he played an old Russian sonata that he found. Each time he played the piece, a dark creature would appear to stalk him. If that was not bad enough, Alexei’s wife is mysteriously murdered while he was having an affair causing all evidence to point directly towards Alexei. Not only was Greylock a great book, but Paula Cappa weaved in time-tested lessons that teach the reader many things about humanity and the pursuit of happiness. If you are interested in mystery, horror, or just general fiction, this book will be an excellent read for you. I know that this is definitely going to be a book that I will reread in the future.
October 10, 2020
“Greylock” is a murder mystery with supernatural elements written by Paula Cappa. The story is about Pianist Alexei Georg, who hides a secret. Every time he plays his music a presence haunts him. This presence appears on the stage, but others in the audience. Alexei can't explain what's wrong with him. He does not know why this presence appears when he plays his music.
One day his wife, Anne, is murdered, being Alexei the prime suspect. He flees to Boston. Secluded on Mt. Greylock, Alexei has to save his career. Would he be able to be reborn and save his profession?
The world building of this novel is fantastic, fresh and original. The characters are interesting and well fleshed out. I liked this tale very much. It caught my attention from beginning to end. Supernatural fans will be delighted with it. I strongly recommend this book to all Supernatural and Mystery lovers!
One day his wife, Anne, is murdered, being Alexei the prime suspect. He flees to Boston. Secluded on Mt. Greylock, Alexei has to save his career. Would he be able to be reborn and save his profession?
The world building of this novel is fantastic, fresh and original. The characters are interesting and well fleshed out. I liked this tale very much. It caught my attention from beginning to end. Supernatural fans will be delighted with it. I strongly recommend this book to all Supernatural and Mystery lovers!
October 12, 2020
This book is like a rollercoaster! “Greylock” is a novel written by Paula Cappa. Part supernatural thriller, part drama and love story, this novel is full of twists and turns that make you stay at the edge of your seat. It has a good story line, in fact, as soon as I read a few pages I was hooked.
This novel tells the story of Alexei Georg, a pianist, who is chased by a darkness creature. Every time he performs a specific Russian sonata, a threatening manifestation shows up near him or in the audience. But his life goes down when his wife appears murdered. What should he do?
To sum up, this book is amazing down to the last page. It contains thirty-three chapters and in all of them you feel inside of the story. You want to keep on reading in order to know what will happen next. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Reading this book, you cannot fail to feel entertained.
This novel tells the story of Alexei Georg, a pianist, who is chased by a darkness creature. Every time he performs a specific Russian sonata, a threatening manifestation shows up near him or in the audience. But his life goes down when his wife appears murdered. What should he do?
To sum up, this book is amazing down to the last page. It contains thirty-three chapters and in all of them you feel inside of the story. You want to keep on reading in order to know what will happen next. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Reading this book, you cannot fail to feel entertained.
June 29, 2017
Greylock by Paula Cappa is a fascinating tale. It sort of reminds of Phantom of the Opera a little bit. I love how Paula Cappa combined several genres and themes into one magnificent read. Mystery, paranormal, and romance. Music is loved by all. But in this case it can also be hated. Haunting, dark, and intriguing. Readers like myself will e thoroughly entertained. Death, loss, murder, and love can be found on these pages. Paula Cappa is a talented writer. The words came alive as I was flipping through them. Overall, Greylock is an interesting novel. I highly recommend to readers worldwide.
December 13, 2017
This normally isn't the type of novel I would pick up, but I was pleasantly surprised how the story unfolded. The characters were drawn with more dimension than I would have expected and the writing is quite good. Part suspense and part thriller, I found myself having a hard time putting it down. Full of mystery and intrigue, with elements of horror and fantasy, this is a book I definitely would recommend. This is well-crafted storytelling.
April 22, 2022
Keeps you guessing:
He's a composer of exquisite music; or is he? His cousin is as close as a brother; or is he? His vicious wife is murdered while he is with his lover; or is he? Add beautiful singing whales, a dark presence, a surprising twist at the end, and If you like metaphysical/mystery with a perfect measure of horror, you will love this intriguing book.
He's a composer of exquisite music; or is he? His cousin is as close as a brother; or is he? His vicious wife is murdered while he is with his lover; or is he? Add beautiful singing whales, a dark presence, a surprising twist at the end, and If you like metaphysical/mystery with a perfect measure of horror, you will love this intriguing book.
October 19, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
October 1, 2016
I am a great fan of Paula Cappa and was eager to read this book. It certainly did not disappoint. It is a very original story about a pianist who finds the manuscript of a sonata in an old sea chest and publishes it as his own. His expertise at playing this sonata, and the quality of the sonata itself, open many doors for him and substantially improve his life. However, he must now knuckle down and write a sonata of his own, to maintain his standing in the music community. His attempts to do this, by writing a sonata based on the songs of Beluga whales, form the plot of this book. There is, however, a frightening supernatural element too, which I will leave the reader to discover for himself as I don’t want to spoil this excellent book.
October 27, 2016
Fast forward. 2014, Boston, MA. Carole Anne Georg (Alexei’s wife, mgr. ballerina co., former ballerina) was at her favorite hangout the Carriage Tea House bragging on her husband’s Alexei Georg (Pianist) review of Gerald Eisenman (music critique, Boston Globe).
Dr. Leed Mensah (AA, PhD, musical arts, Professor/Dean, Wheatley College, Asst. Director) spoke with Alexei (Wheatley College) that he wanted to appoint him as a composer at the Essex Institution (Russia).
The 2 also discussed Lia Marrs (WBNN, meteorologist).
Zachary Ross (Maestro) asked Alexei if he would perform at the Back Bay Event Center (Bentley Towers) for a breast cancer research charity event.
Alexei & Carol Anne were now separated.
Why did Alexei go to Mr. Josef Viktor Evenko (cousin) apartment?
Departing Kem Harbor Alexei was now aboard the Belyy Ved’ma (Russian ship).
Josef was waiting at the Logan Airport terminal for Alexei’s (41) plane from St. Petersburg, Russia to arrive.
Carol Anne had been murdered # 4.
Detective Violet Rufft (28, Boston PD, homicide, aka Ms. Poodle head) was assigned to the case.
She informed Alexei ”Lexie” about the other serial killer’s victims: Christinia Avery (Jazz, Top of the Hub), Maggie Langsford (41, Handle & Hayden Music Society) & Ellen Mulvaney (Handle & Hayden Music Society).
Is there a pattern present?
Alexei Viktor Georghovlovna is at Greylock Music Center (Mount Greylock, MA.) writing & composing his next music pieces.
Who is Varlok?
Dr. Mensah hired & paid for Todd Benjamin (lawyer, Scott & McCarthy) to represent Alexei.
Will Detective Rufft solve the murder mysteries.
Wow, a Steinway, I played 1 of those & a Wurlitzer Baby Grand at the age of 10-14 at the Conservatory of Music (KC, MO). I defiantly wasn’t aware back then music comes from sexual energy.
My son acquired the musical gene. He writes, sings & plays just about any darn instrument you give him. 1 of his BA undergrad is music/theater. & UR not going to believe this my son had a CD of Beluga Whale Music, & I listened to it. Relaxing was his comment.
Warning: This book contains adult content, violence, or expletive language which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow a very well powerful murder mystery with a musical twist book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Dr. Leed Mensah (AA, PhD, musical arts, Professor/Dean, Wheatley College, Asst. Director) spoke with Alexei (Wheatley College) that he wanted to appoint him as a composer at the Essex Institution (Russia).
The 2 also discussed Lia Marrs (WBNN, meteorologist).
Zachary Ross (Maestro) asked Alexei if he would perform at the Back Bay Event Center (Bentley Towers) for a breast cancer research charity event.
Alexei & Carol Anne were now separated.
Why did Alexei go to Mr. Josef Viktor Evenko (cousin) apartment?
Departing Kem Harbor Alexei was now aboard the Belyy Ved’ma (Russian ship).
Josef was waiting at the Logan Airport terminal for Alexei’s (41) plane from St. Petersburg, Russia to arrive.
Carol Anne had been murdered # 4.
Detective Violet Rufft (28, Boston PD, homicide, aka Ms. Poodle head) was assigned to the case.
She informed Alexei ”Lexie” about the other serial killer’s victims: Christinia Avery (Jazz, Top of the Hub), Maggie Langsford (41, Handle & Hayden Music Society) & Ellen Mulvaney (Handle & Hayden Music Society).
Is there a pattern present?
Alexei Viktor Georghovlovna is at Greylock Music Center (Mount Greylock, MA.) writing & composing his next music pieces.
Who is Varlok?
Dr. Mensah hired & paid for Todd Benjamin (lawyer, Scott & McCarthy) to represent Alexei.
Will Detective Rufft solve the murder mysteries.
Wow, a Steinway, I played 1 of those & a Wurlitzer Baby Grand at the age of 10-14 at the Conservatory of Music (KC, MO). I defiantly wasn’t aware back then music comes from sexual energy.
My son acquired the musical gene. He writes, sings & plays just about any darn instrument you give him. 1 of his BA undergrad is music/theater. & UR not going to believe this my son had a CD of Beluga Whale Music, & I listened to it. Relaxing was his comment.
Warning: This book contains adult content, violence, or expletive language which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow a very well powerful murder mystery with a musical twist book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 24, 2016
Tell me the book is about music and the supernatural, and I'm immediately hooked. In Greylock, we have a classical music spin-off of the Robert Johnson story, in which he sells his soul to the devil at the crossroads in exchange for being a gifted blues guitarist. Here, instead, the instrument is the piano and the gift sought is the ultimate music composition, which will, of course, bring fame. I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of the story. The author beautifully captures music's emotional pull and power.
The first half of the book doesn't feel particularly supernatural, but instead feels more literary. We explore emotions and relationships. The pace is fairly slow. The second half of the book picks up considerably, and this is when the content is heavily influenced by supernatural possibilities. This aspect is well done and believable.
My grumbling points come with characterization and, in smaller part, setting. For me, loving a book requires me to believe the characters could step off the pages and live among us. I just didn't feel that with this story. The characters felt stiff and their dialogue overly formal. I actually grew up minutes from where this story takes place, but I never got any sense of "home" from the people or the place.
Finally, some aspects of the plot didn't ring true for me. The murder investigation felt too peripheral, given the situation. And the music community's reaction to Alexei's grand confession appeared far too easy and forgiving.
In the end, there were aspects of this book that I loved. And, given the glowing reviews, I am clearly in the minority with my complaints. If the mix of music and the supernatural appeals to you, definitely give this book a try.
*I was provided with an ebook copy in exchange for my honest review.*
The first half of the book doesn't feel particularly supernatural, but instead feels more literary. We explore emotions and relationships. The pace is fairly slow. The second half of the book picks up considerably, and this is when the content is heavily influenced by supernatural possibilities. This aspect is well done and believable.
My grumbling points come with characterization and, in smaller part, setting. For me, loving a book requires me to believe the characters could step off the pages and live among us. I just didn't feel that with this story. The characters felt stiff and their dialogue overly formal. I actually grew up minutes from where this story takes place, but I never got any sense of "home" from the people or the place.
Finally, some aspects of the plot didn't ring true for me. The murder investigation felt too peripheral, given the situation. And the music community's reaction to Alexei's grand confession appeared far too easy and forgiving.
In the end, there were aspects of this book that I loved. And, given the glowing reviews, I am clearly in the minority with my complaints. If the mix of music and the supernatural appeals to you, definitely give this book a try.
*I was provided with an ebook copy in exchange for my honest review.*
February 10, 2017
When I go out of home to the university and came back, go to work and come
back again, all the time in between I have my earphones and listen to music, I
enjoy music a lot, and I also love the supernatural genre, so these two themes
mixes up in one book is something I truly enjoy.
When I’m looking horror/supernatural/thriller movies I always listen carefully the
music playing during the scene, that set up the whole atmosphere in my
opinion, just like in video games, everything is built from the music and all the
sounds surrounding you, so in this regard the author made an incredible and
creative achievement, it is really an amazing book.
However, is not that simple as I’m describing, the book is more complex than it
appears, so if you like the supernatural genre, you definitely need to read this,
the only thing you need to worry is how fast you can actually finish it, because
once you start, you can’t stop, trust me I tried.
back again, all the time in between I have my earphones and listen to music, I
enjoy music a lot, and I also love the supernatural genre, so these two themes
mixes up in one book is something I truly enjoy.
When I’m looking horror/supernatural/thriller movies I always listen carefully the
music playing during the scene, that set up the whole atmosphere in my
opinion, just like in video games, everything is built from the music and all the
sounds surrounding you, so in this regard the author made an incredible and
creative achievement, it is really an amazing book.
However, is not that simple as I’m describing, the book is more complex than it
appears, so if you like the supernatural genre, you definitely need to read this,
the only thing you need to worry is how fast you can actually finish it, because
once you start, you can’t stop, trust me I tried.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews