Liz Morgan is a talented, ambitious flutist headed for a brilliant career. But before she can achieve the world-class recognition she craves, an accident puts an end to her dreams. Desperate to fulfill her mother's musical legacy, she fights to reinvent her path, and settles on a new passion: singing. She even leaves San Francisco and returns to the town in Wales where she spent her early childhood to do it. But as Liz works to perfect her voice and launch a new career, she is confronted with her mother's other legacy: the choice between the seduction of fame and the constancy of an ordinary life.
Magic Flute is an intimate exploration of the world of grand opera. Amid the backstage detail is a story of passions and choices that explores the humanity behind the most dramatic of art forms.
Industry Reviews
"A smart and uplifting tale of personal and musical renewal; an impressive debut."
—KIRKUS REVIEWS
"Magic Flute is a beautifully constructed inside-look at the world of grand opera, and the passion that accompanies the power of art."
—Bookstr
"This beautifully crafted novel is so close to an artist's heart, and the heart of any true lover of music, that it defies description. The Magic Flute is such a mystical story in just the opera alone, that to merge it with a true love story is amazing for the reader. I felt my head actually falling in love again just with the beauty of the music along with the story."
—Carol Vaness, soprano
"Magic Flute is the wonderful tale of a musician's desire to leave her mark on the world. Elizabeth Morgan's journey from devastating loss to reinvention and success reminds us that great artists must embrace all of life -- including precious and complicated relationships -- to offer the world something of value, and that no one succeeds alone. I loved every page of this compelling story!"
—Jane Erwin Hammett, Sweet Spot Performance
"Patricia Minger has captured the essence of a musicians attachment to their instrument and their passion for music. When Liz Morgan has to face the abandonment of her career as a flutist, it is a devastating blow and is beautifully and very accurately presented by the author. The only bond more important than a musician and their instrument is that between parent and child! It is a wonderful story and is very true to the nature and portrayal of an instrumentalist and a singer. Brava to Ms. Minger and thank you."
—Frederica von Stade, mezzo-soprano
