SYNOPSIS
A Song in My Heart, the first book in a trilogy, is a historical novel set in early 1900 in the United States, Mexico, England, France, and Italy. Alejandra Stanford is born into a privileged bi-cultural family in Minneapolis. Growing up, she and her artistic family intimately experience the intermingling of American, Hispanic, and European cultural influences, as well as formidable national events that challenge their lives; yet, Alejandra finds music is the perfect expression of her own artistic inclinations, emotions, and ambitions.
As a young pianist and budding composer, she is affected by Minnesota’s musical pioneers and resolves to become a conductor despite the obstacles. When driven, sensible, and independent Alejandra travels to the great cities of the world in pursuit of her dreams, she falls in love with the music of legendary composers. Along the way, she will meet two men who are her match in ideals and intellect, each with the potential to bring fulfillment in very different ways. Ultimately, it is the passion for music and love which guide, inspire, and determine Alejandra’s destiny.
Translation to Spanish:
Sinopsis de Una Canción en Mi Corazón (A Song in My Heart). Es el primer libro de la trilogía y la historia es situada a principios del 1900 en Estados Unidos, México, Inglaterra, Francia e Italia. Alejandra Stanford nace en el seno de una familia privilegiada y bicultural en Minneapolis. Al crecer, Alejandra y su familia vivien la mezcla de influencias culturales americanas, hispanas y europeas, así como formidables eventos nacionales que desafían sus vidas.
Alejandra encuentra que la música es la expresión ideal de sus propias inclinaciones artísticas, emociones, y ambiciones. Como joven pianista y compositora en ciernes, Alejandra se inspira por compositors Mexicanos y los pioneros musicales de Minnesota y sueña con convertirse en directora musical a pesar de los obstaculos de la época.
Cuando Alejandra, motivada, sensata e indepiendiente, viaja a las grandes ciudades del mundo se enamora de la música de compositors legendarios. En el camino, conocerá a dos hombres con ideales e intelecto similar, cada uno con el potencial de brindar satisfacción de maneras muy diferentes. En última instancia, es la pasión por la música y el amor lo que guía y determina el destino de Alejandra.
Hardcover with CD Collectible Available at AMAZON and BARNES & NOBLE
Second Edition Paperback and eBook (2018), published by Calumet Editions, Available at AMAZON
“Calatayud-Stocks’ debut is a historical novel set to music. The historical aspect is well-researched and true to the period. The story is compelling that this novel deserves to find a larger audience. The author intends this to be the first in a trilogy, and she has created enough momentum to build on. An auspicious debut.” Kirkus Reviews.
“Ms. Calatayud-Stocks’ writing style is a “You are There” approach that is intensely personalized. The author’s unique approach to telling this story is demonstrated by her composing and recording music that exemplifies the moods of different story segments as they unfold. In all, this was a highly un-usual and well-done project that marries the written word with the musical words. We rated it five hearts. Five star.” Bob Spear, Heartland Reviews.
“An extraordinary fusion of music and literature. Calatayud-Stocks deftly interweaves the themes of music, art, romance, passion, and history. A Song in My Heart leaves the readers anxious for the next installment, A Symphony of Rivals.” Book Reviewer List.
“A Song in My Heart is a delightful reading. I enjoyed it immensely. The novel flows softly and rhythmically. Roma did a wonderful job in researching the history of music, the classical composers, Schumann, Bach, Liszt, and Debussy. We love and suffer dawn and sunsets, war and peace, but it is always Music in the novel that offers us a safe port. Alejandra, the main character in the novel, shows us the sweetness of life but at the same time the strength, the power of seduction, and the firmness of a decision. I will be awaiting A Symphony of Rivals.” Ana Luisa Fajer Flores, Consul General of Mexico in Minnesota.
“Roma Calatayud-Stocks’ debut novel is about the life of Alejandra (“Ale”) Stanford during the first three decades of the 20th century. Ale’s dream is to become an orchestral conductor. During her formative years, there are few role models for this ambition, and she struggles to keep her musical talent alive as she goes through the stages of growing up, courting, and earning respect in a milieu that’s predominantly male … Calatayud-Stocks takes the reader on a compelling journey, from Minnesota and New York to México and across the continent of Europe, spicing her narrative with details that speak to her own powers of observation and willingness to do the necessary research. It is a sparkling account, and we look forward to the sequel that is sure to follow. I enjoyed it immensely.” John Watson Milton, Award-winning Author.
AWARDS:
- THIRD LATINO BOOKS INTO MOVIES AWARDS, First Place Romantic Drama, September 21, 2013, Los Angeles, Ca.
- 14th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LATINO BOOK AWARDS, Best Novel 2ND. Place Historical Fiction, June 5, 2012, New York, NY. Click here:
- MARIPOSA AWARDS, Debut Book English, June 5, 2012, New York, NY.
- MIDWEST BOOK AWARDS, First Place in the Arts Category, May 9, 2012, Minneapolis, Min.
- MOM’S CHOICE AWARDS, Multimedia Experiences Adult Books, December 17, 2011, Chesapeake, Va.