Diva by Daisy Goodwin

 Diva weaves the story of Maria Callas, the most celebrated opera singer of her time, and her relationship with Aristotle Onassis, Greek tycoon.

The story begins in 1968 with Maria trying to get over what has just happened. After a nine-year romance with Onassis, she learns about his newly announced marriage to Jackie Kennedy. The world she built around her and tried to protect for so long is crumbling now.

The novel interestingly weaves the backstories. Maria was born in New York, but was taken back to the country of her parents and raised there during the Nazi-occupied Greece by her mother who exploited her miraculous voice. Later, Maria marries a man who just sees her voice which makes good money, but he doesn’t see her as a woman. When she meets Onassis, she feels seen for the first time as a woman.

They meet in Italy in 1957. Onassis doesn’t like opera, but he likes Maria. She is offended by his arrogance and doesn’t accept an invitation to his yacht. But Onassis doesn’t give up and continues to pursue her. He showers her with expensive jewelry and holidays, introducing her to the most famous celebrities of the time.

The story ends with Onassis marrying Jackie and quickly realizing that Maria was probably the love of his life. I hoped the story would continue after their split, but it ends sharply after the split.

This story is authentically presented, vividly painting a portrait of a strong woman, who at the same time is ready to give up her career for a man she deeply loves. I enjoy stories of real people told in the first person, but there are some explicit scenes that feel invasive.

The characters are well-fleshed-out, making the experience, for most part, feel very real. Also, there is a realistic presentation of Maria’s preparations and her worries of knowing that it’s a matter of time when her singing career will end.

The story changes time and place flawlessly, and with engaging prose weaves a fascinating story.

Release: January 23, 2024

Source: St. Martin's Press