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The Violin ConspiracyBrendan Slocumb

Contemporary mystery

The Violin Conspiracy

by Brendan Slocumb

Ray McMillian pursues a career as a classical violinist despite racism within the music world and a family that treats his ambition as impractical. His grandmother's battered heirloom is discovered to be a Stradivarius worth millions, triggering competing ownership claims from relatives and descendants of the family who once enslaved Ray's ancestor. When the violin is stolen before the Tchaikovsky Competition, recovering it becomes inseparable from proving that his artistry belongs on the international stage. Urgent and music-rich, this mystery suits readers who enjoy artistic ambition, contested inheritance, high-pressure competitions, and protagonists refusing to let prejudice define either their talent or their history.

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Blackberry Sweet Tea + Midnight Porter

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense3 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Crime, danger, violence, and death

Alcohol-Free Pour

Blackberry Sweet Tea

Blackberry syrup and lemon turn iced tea into a berry-bright afternoon pour.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Chill and serve over ice.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Midnight Porter

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Dark, toasty richness suits an evening of clues and clever sleuthing.

What you'll need

  • 12 oz Porter

How to mix it

  1. Pour into a clean pint glass and serve at the appropriate cool serving temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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