Award-winning novelist and composer, Roma Calatayud-Stocks holds a Bachelor's degree in Music and Psychology, and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Roma later continued studies in creative writing at the University of St. Thomas. Calatayud-Stocks is the author of two historical novels, A Song in My Heart, and the newly released, A Symphony of Rivals. She's currently working on the third installment of her trilogy, An Ode to Joy. And in line with her passion and commitment to bring forth the contributions of all cultures through the arts, Roma's narratives, set to music, provide a window to locations across the world, while also addressing poignant issues, politics of the era, and history. Calatayud-Stocks has released two albums "A Song in My Heart," and "Carnival of Life." With classical, jazz, and Latin musical influences, the album, performed by an acoustic ensemble, showcase her original songs and instrumental compositions. For the last twenty years, Roma has worked in various roles for art organizations in the Twin Cities. She has toured the United States to present her work to universities, libraries, corporations, women's clubs, and book fairs. A native of Mexico City, she now lives with her husband, Tom, in Minneapolis. For book synopses, awards, reviews, news, media, music, upcoming events, or to contact Roma for speaking engagements, please visit her website at: www.RomaStocks.com or www.CalumetEditions.com
"Calatayud-Stocks' debut is a historical novel set to music. 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"An extraordinary fusion of music and literature. Through her novel, Calatayud-Stocks establishes herself as a first-rate storyteller, showcasing her equal talents for both writing and music through the story of Alejandra Stanford. Calatayud-Stocks deftly interweaves the themes of music, art, romance, passion, and history. A Song in My Heart, which is the first book in a trilogy, leaves readers anxious for the next installment, A Symphony of Rivals, which will resume the story in Berlin, Germany in 1933."-BOOK REVIEWER LIST"Roma Calatayud-Stocks' debut novel is about the life of Alejandra ("Ale") Stanford during the first three decades of the 20th century. 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." -John Watson Milton, award-winning author of fiction and history"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 classic composers, Schumann, Bach, Liszt and Debussy. We love and suffer dawns and sunsets, war and peace, but it is always MUSIC in the novel that offers a safe port. Alejandra Stanford, the main character in the novel, shows us the sweetness of life but at the same time the strength, the power of seduction, the firmness of a decision. I will be awaiting for A Symphony of Rivals." -Ana Luisa Fajer Flores, Consul General of Mexico in St. Paul, MN"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 unusual and well-done project that marries the written word with the musical words. We rated it five hearts (5 Stars)." -Bob Spear, HEARTLAND REVIEWS"A Song in My Heart will surely please any history aficionado and is brimming with music and art references, as they are an integral component to the story. Accompanying the book, is an audio CD with original musical scores to accompany various sections of the novel. We see Alejandra's musical life story seamlessly interwoven and leaping from the pages. Did the author herself long to have lived during this time period? I know that I wished to have been there myself as Alejandra finds melodic inspiration in everything she saw." -Susan Dusterhoft, INTERNET REVIEW OF BOOKS"Reading this book will put a song in your heart and take you back to a time when classical music was the pinnacle of popular culture and entertainment. A talented composer herself, author Calatayud-Stocks shares her knowledge and passion for art and music with this compelling historical novel and accompanying original soundtrack CD. How refreshing this is, at a time when our children's involvement in the arts competes with the low-brow culture of celebrity gossip, reality TV, and shallow pop music. Longing for a world of fine art and music with substance? A Song in My Heart is a great place to start."-Jim Barnes, Editor, Independent Publisher
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