The crux of the story revolves around what happened to Jill. This incident is eerily reminiscent of an occurrence 15 years before when a newlywed bride shot her husband and hanged herself in Room 712 of the Bellweather. When Alice rushes out to get help Jill's body disappears. On the first evening of Statewide Alice discovers Jill's hanging body in their hotel room. This year the head of Statewide is Viola Fabian, a cruel, unpopular woman who delights in crushing the aspirations of young talent, and uses and abuses people to further her goals.Ĭoincidentally, Viola's daughter - flute prodigy Jill Facelli - is Alice's roommate in Room 712. Rabbit plays the bassoon in the orchestra, and Alice, an aspiring singer/actress, is in the chorus. In 1997, twin high school seniors - Rabbit and Alice Hatmaker - have both qualified to attend. I would recommend this for any music geeks out there, you know who you are.Įvery year the Bellweather Hotel in upstate New York hosts a musical event called 'Statewide' where talented young students get the opportunity to show off their skills.

It was as random as this story line and I'm down for that. There is a lot going on including, but not limited to: murder, hauntings (both external and internal), disappearances, shouting matches, a love affair, self discovery, robbery and so much more.

This was completely entertaining even though I can hardly put into words an accurate description of what I read. Trust me, it's just as good as you imagine it would be!Īspirations and attitudes are running high and on full display. Two of our main characters are Alice and Rabbit Hatmaker, a brother and sister duo are basically the novel interpretation of what would happen if Rachel Berry and Kurt Hummel were siblings. The Plot: A weekend retreat for the most talented young musicians in NY state dramatics ensue. The Cast: Vast, flawed, nerdy, dangerous and expressive. The Setting: A large, dilapidated, possibly haunted hotel called the Bellweather.

It's 100% unique and reads very much like a Wes Anderson film. Bellweather Rhapsody is a breath of fresh air.

Bellweather rhapsody by kate racculia