The String Quartet

by Dan Hupalo

Loss can be tough to handle, but a young girl named Dawn Arterberry has made a fresh start. She has a new school and a new cello to match. That is, mostly new. . . With her four new friends, Dawn tries to solve the mystery that has taken over her life. What is the Rheingold? Who is the Charmed Duke? And what does the grandfather she never knew have to do with any of it?

Inspired by a tradition of myth and story more than a millennia old, The String Quartet takes readers on a journey through the cycle of
the Rhine. From the forests of New England to a new world both fantastic and frightening, The String Quartet tells of an adventure appropriate for readers of all ages

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Young Adult, Childrens, Magic

294 pages, Paperback

First published October 11, 2013

About the author

Dan Hupalo is a biologist, illustrator, and author who lives in New York City.

He writes novels and runs a webcomic availble at http://www.TheAuroraCycle.com

Check out his art blog at http://hupalo.tumblr.com

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every now and then you come across a just-right book. The String Quartet was a just-right book for me. I found it to be the perfect blending of storytelling and characterization, of fantasy and mystery. At its simplest, I suppose, you could say that it was a story about a magical cello rediscovered in a tumbling-down barn. That would be accurate but not do the book full justice.

Dawn Arterberry is the heroine of The String Quartet. She has recently moved with her father to Vermont; the two are still deep in grief: Dawn's mother has recently died. Within a chapter or two, Dawn will leave home once again, she'll be attending a private boarding school on a beautiful but remote island. The good news is that she's already made a good friend in Elliot; the two have had the summer to get to know one another. Elliot is with Dawn on the fateful day she explores the old barn on the family farm. Of course, neither realizes the significance of that cello, the cello belonging to her grandfather.

Dawn adjusts relatively well to life at her new school; she joins the orchestra and becomes part of a string quartet. And that is, in part, where the proper fantasy-adventure begins... for one day in practice... something unexpected happens.

If you enjoy novels where heroes travel from the 'real world' to a fantasy one, then The String Quartet may be just right for you. I enjoyed the world-building. I enjoyed the storytelling. But most of all, I enjoyed the characterization! I liked getting to know Dawn, Elliot, Davis, and Abigail.

[L.R. S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The String Quartet
by Dan Hupalo


Written from an omniscient POV that is as intelligent as it is descriptive, The String Quartet is a fantasy to sink your teeth into. Though the plot revolves around a group of eighth-graders (the interaction and dialogue rings true to their age), I feel it wouldn’t be justified to pigeonhole the novel in the middle grade genre as its complexity renders it a story to be enjoyed by a wider spectrum of ages.

Shuttling back and forth from our contemporary world to a magical one, the narrator paints the evolving drama so vividly that I was completely enmeshed in the action and couldn't extricate myself until two thirty in the morning.

The author shared this ebook with me (I was asked for a frank review), and I now thank him for the literary treat. I do not use the term “literary’ loosely: Not only was The String Quartet thoroughly enjoyable but it also read like a piece of literature.

[Natalie]

DNF 30%
I was approach by the author and asked wether I wanted to read and review his ebook version of this book. I read the blurb and this sounded really promising and up my street.
The writing was very well written and flowed really well. This book isn't bad I really just could not get into this book I think it is just me. I've been trying for months to get into this but I think after three months I have to put it down.
Just not my cup of tea I'm sure many people will love this. As it is a well written book.
Thank you so much for sending me this ebook to review I will try again later in the year I think it's just the mind frame I'm in at the moment.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall a good book. I found the first few chapters slightly confusing as you started in WW2 and then jumped forward fifty years. The book did not grab me immediately and took a while to get into the story. I was able to read it with breaks in between and still follow the story line.

I did like the story line and the adventures the 4 main characters had were suitable for their ages. The use of classical instruments as the conduit for the magic was different.  The author includes a great deal of description.

The book relates the adventures of 4 teenagers who meet in orchestra practice at their school. Due to the instruments they play they are required to form a string quartet and this is where the fun starts as the cello is magical. While playing the quartet get transported to a different land whereby they need to try and get home. Three manage to return home and 1 stays behind. The story then continues on how the three return to the land and help overthrow the dictator and save their friend.  Elliott, who was left behind is trained by a magician to help overthrow the dictator along with his friends.

There were some twists in the story line which I liked and the ending was unexpected. It does leave the option open for a sequel.

I received a copy of the book for a review from the author.

[LoveBooksAndCats · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was more than ok read. A bit confusing at the beginning but then the story really picked up the tempo in middle. The writer has done a good job in wavering the imaginary world and his writing Is good. The story has main character Dawn but It really revolves around four teenagers. Dawn,Abigail,Elliot and Davis, the string quarter. Dawn has a Cello ,the strings of which are made by a magical element. When played in harmony it transported them to another world where the duke wants to capture them and have the cello. The story progress and the four of them found themselves to fight to find their back home. There were some low points before the major face off of the duke n kids but on the whole it was nice. I like Abigail's character more than Dawn's.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange of an honest review.

[Uma · Rating 4 out of 5]

The String Quartet was a very interesting read.
The storyline was well thought, and the used wording was excellent. The first chapter was a bit confusing, but I caught up pretty quickly. The characters were well developed. I would definitely recommend. The book in general was great!

[Mandy Helfer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just couldn’t get into this. The story didn’t hold my attention. It was confusing at parts - I wish more would have been explained about what happened to Alphonse in the time after the first chapter of the book and when he was reintroduced. The story ends on a cliff hanger but I have no desire to continue on.

[Fatma Ocak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good book

It was through and descriptive made you feel like you were in the story.
I really recommend the book.
Really one of the best fantasy books i have read.
☺

[Georgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating for this book - 4.5 stars.

I really enjoyed 'The String Quartet' even though fantasy isn't usually my kind of thing.

Dawn Arterberry is just about to start eighth grade at a boarding school. She and her father, Wilbur, have been struggling along together after the death of Dawn's mother, something neither of them have recovered from. Dawn's dad thinks it would be safer for her to be at a boarding school as he works as a doctor at the hospital and can't always be around to keep an eye on her. Dawn isn't too pleased, but her friend Elliott is starting at the school too. Shortly before they're due to leave, Dawn discovers an old cello that belonged to her grandfather in an old barn on their property. Dawn never knew her grandfather, and Wilbur doesn't like talking about him because he vanished from his life when Wilbur was just a kid himself. As Dawn loves to play cello, Wilbur lets her keep it.
As Dawn, Elliott and two new friends will discover, the cello contains a strange power, one that will transport them to another world and bring them up against some very scary characters, and might just help Dawn solve the mystery of what really happened to her grandfather all those years ago.

What I liked about this book:
1) Dawn. What a fantastic character she is! Another addition to the wonderful world of middle-grade/YA female protagonists with actual personality and spark and who don't obsesses over boys etc. Dawn is stubborn, impulsive, funny, smart, loving and vulnerable. She drinks tea, especially Earl Gray. She makes mistakes too, and that makes her all the more human.

2) Elliott, Abigail, Nathanial, and Mollie - all great supporting characters that have their own personalities and develop nicely throughout the book, Elliott especially.

3) The fantasy-world set up - pretty 'realistic' for a fantasy world with just enough cool stuff (wizards, magic, evil dudes all in black) to make it 'fantasy'. Good development and back story as well.

4)The parts of the novel set in the real world. The author spends quite a bit of time showing all the characters in the real world, dealing with real world problems such as being the new kid at school, absent parents, and mean kids. This means the reader gets a nice feel for the characters before they're plunged into the fantasy world, which makes them all the more interesting to follow through that fantasy world.

What I disliked:
1) Davis. While all the other characters had their own personality, Davis just didn't 'do anything' for me. He seemed to be there to do little more than be the 'funnyman' (though I didn't find him very funny), carry or move heavy stuff, and offer the odd bit of common-sense advice. I didn't *dislike* him, it's just that personally I thought that the cello had more personality than he did. For me, Davis added nothing to the book , so that's where it loses half a star. Though it's more my personal feeling than anything the author did. If there are further books in the series (that would be cool) I might grow to like Davis more if we get more of his backstory.

Finally, to the age range of this one- the characters are teenagers, but I think it would be enjoyable to middle-grade age readers (say, 10 up) and adults too. A great book.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The String Quartet" which I won through Goodreads Giveaways is a blend of science fiction and mystery that begins when Dawn Arterberry and her father move to Windsor, Vermont after the death of her mother. Enrolled at St. Sigfrid Preparatory Academy a boarding school on Lake Umbagog, Dawn isn't sure she's going to fit in even though her new friend Elliot Velasquez attends.

Her confidence bolstered by her grandfather's cello that she found in his dilapidated barn she joins a stringed quartet at school. Practicing their recital piece Dawn and her friends never expect to be transported to Roethagen, a town ruled by a "Charmed Duke" who believes they hold the key to the Reingold a magic that has suddenly resurfaced. In this story Dawn and her friends take a journey of self-discovery to an incredible world of magic and mystery where they learn lessons about friendship and self-sacrifice.

The plot is fascinating as Dan Hupalo sweeps the reader from the contemporary world to a land of mystery and magic.Cleverly he integrates the WWII experience of Alphonse Gebbart and his brother in arms, Ted Anello who escape from the clutches of Major Klaus Tröger with the help of a golden chain into a storyline that encompasses an old, refurbished cello. Fast-paced and intriguing I couldn't put the novel down as the four mismatched youngsters find themselves embarking on a dangerous and enlightening quest in search of information about the mystery of the Reingold. I loved the texture and illustration of a unique cover which captures your imagination and is so indicative of the characters within.

Amusing with all their quirks, the personalities of Dawn, Elliot, Abigail and Davis add spice and drama to this wonderfully inventive story. Dawn Arterberry devastated by the loss of her mother is insecure, blunt, and stubborn. She often acts impulsively without thinking about her actions. At school Abigail Pryce is conceited, overly-confident, and popular. Masking the pain of a dysfunctional family, she bullies Dawn who she considers weak only to recognize her value on the quest. Davis Rybar is funny, likeable, but self-centered while Elliot Velasque is awkward, nerdy and clever.

Of the antagonists in the story the Duke is ruthless, power-hungry and unstable, willing to destroy anyone who wants access to the magic he covets, while his henchman the Shade is cold, and heartless, stubbornly obedient to his master. All these characters and more add colour, excitement and power to this captivating tale.

"The String Quartet" which is probably geared to a pre-teen audience is a delightful book that can be enjoyed by all ages. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more by this talented writer

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The String Quartet" which I won through Goodreads Giveaways is a blend of science fiction and mystery that begins when Dawn Arterberry and her father move to Windsor, Vermont after the death of her mother. Enrolled at St. Sigfrid Preparatory Academy a boarding school on Lake Umbagog, Dawn isn't sure she's going to fit in even though her new friend Elliot Velasquez attends.

Her confidence bolstered by her grandfather's cello that she found in his dilapidated barn she joins a stringed quartet at school. Practicing their recital piece Dawn and her friends never expect to be transported to Roethagen, a town ruled by a "Charmed Duke" who believes they hold the key to the Reingold a magic that has suddenly resurfaced. In this story Dawn and her friends take a journey of self-discovery to an incredible world of magic and mystery where they learn lessons about friendship and self-sacrifice.

The plot is fascinating as Dan Hupalo sweeps the reader from the contemporary world to a land of mystery and magic.Cleverly he integrates the WWII experience of Alphonse Gebbart and his brother in arms, Ted Anello who escape from the clutches of Major Klaus Tröger with the help of a golden chain into a storyline that encompasses an old, refurbished cello. Fast-paced and intriguing I couldn't put the novel down as the four mismatched youngsters find themselves embarking on a dangerous and enlightening quest in search of information about the mystery of the Reingold. I loved the texture and illustration of a unique cover which captures your imagination and is so indicative of the characters within.

Amusing with all their quirks, the personalities of Dawn, Elliot, Abigail and Davis add spice and drama to this wonderfully inventive story. Dawn Arterberry devastated by the loss of her mother is insecure, blunt, and stubborn. She often acts impulsively without thinking about her actions. At school Abigail Pryce is conceited, overly-confident, and popular. Masking the pain of a dysfunctional family, she bullies Dawn who she considers weak only to recognize her value on the quest. Davis Rybar is funny, likeable, but self-centered while Elliot Velasque is awkward, nerdy and clever.

Of the antagonists in the story the Duke is ruthless, power-hungry and unstable, willing to destroy anyone who wants access to the magic he covets, while his henchman the Shade is cold, and heartless, stubbornly obedient to his master. All these characters and more add colour, excitement and power to this captivating tale.

"The String Quartet" which is probably geared to a young adult audience is a delightful book that can be enjoyed by all ages. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more by this talented writer.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

There's also a video review!

When Dawn found the old cello in the dilapidated barn, she thought she had scored that jackpot. Now she could join the music class at her new school. She would be able to practice again. But when she begins to play, things happen. Magical things. The music of Dawn's cello and her string quartet draw them into another world.
Using music as a form of magic is a beautiful and fresh concept in this genre. As someone who's always loved the idea of playing music, it gave me goosebumps.
While it did take me awhile to get into this book, it has a great story, with twists and turns, and a convoluted plot. It would have received a higher rating, except for a few flaws, the biggest of which was the occasionally confusing writing style. There is a lot of head jumping in the narrative and -while I love a good head jumping story- some of these leaps were not made unclear to the reader.
There is a prologue, set during WWII, before we jump forward to present day. The prologue is interesting; it concerns several characters introduced later on down the road. My issue with it is that we didn't get a good indication of how these characters went from their situation in the prologue to where they wound up in the present day. I gleaned the gist of what happened, so there are no serious repercussions in the book, but it felt like there was a hole in history.
For the most part, the characters feel well-rounded and we get to see different sides of them. Abigail, the haughty popular girl, was probably my favorite because she had such opposing elements in her personality.
The world where the quartet finds themselves had some very interesting elements, and I like the way that magic can be stored and used from a pipe system throughout the main city. There seem to be detailed rules of magic here, and ordinary things like eating a meal can make you more susceptible to someone's attack, which I found utterly fascinating. I would have liked to know more about the world, its history, magic, and social structure but, for all the time spent here, I never felt familiar with it. This could have been intentional, since the quartet spends more time trying to find a way home than learning about the culture, but I would have loved to feel more a part of this place.
I did enjoy how much the real world was involved in the story. The adventure isn't just contained in this other world, but its repercussions follow the characters back and forth.
This is a fun story and I'd recommend it for the tween crowd of Brandon Mull's Beyonders.

[Ramneek · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The String Quartet' is a heart-warming and exciting debut novel from Mr Dan Hupalo. This novel had just the perfect amount of historical, fantasy and friendship, I really believe this could be read by people of all ages and everyone would equally love it.

The book tells the story of Dawn who has started a new school after her mother passes away, before coming to her new school she decided she would start playing the cello again but little did she know that this cello she found would throw her into a fantasy world with her 3 companions. Something amazing happens with the string quartet of Dawn, Elliot, Davis and Abigail start playing together.

There's so much mystery and confusion when you start reading this book but that's all part of the fun, I really do think you should start this story without knowing anything about it as this way you can appreciate the plot even more. Even though the first few events that happen with Dawn and her friends are quite confusing and strange, Mr Hupalo does a brilliant job of ever so slowly letting you in on the secrets.

This book was written in 3rd person and usually this can take away the essence of the main character but it was written wonderfully in this novel, it was so easy to empathise with the 4 friends and absolutely love them and their relationships.

Usually the more main characters there are, the less details there is about them but this book kept them all dynamic and none of them were idle for too long as they all contributed to the plot.

All in all, an absolutely brilliant debut story that is so different from today's YA. I believe anyone could enjoy and lose themselves in this book.

*Thanks to Mr Hupalo who sent me a copy of the book*

[Amy D · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all I'd like to thank the author Dan Hupalo for giving me the chance to read one of his books in exchange for a honest review.

The book was good but not one of the best books I've read. The beginning of the book was really interesting and then it slowly went down and then slowly climbed its way back up at the end.

The concept of the book was good but for me the characters were a little bit dull. To me, their only purpose in the book was to play their instrument. I didn't really understand Abigail's character, at the beginning she was portrayed as stuck-up rich girl and was only friends with the posh people then all of a sudden she's all nice, then she becomes all bossy again and then she's nice again. Davis was portrayed as the kid who was trying to be cool and then he just ended up being a character who was just there. Elliot is Dawn's best friend and creates the second problem and yeah.

The plot was interesting, its not everyday you read a book about an instrument that can transport you into a dystopian world. I was lost in the middle part it felt like something was missing. But the ending was great, it wasn't the "everyone lives happily ever after story" which I don't like. What I would have liked was an epilogue to see what happened to Dawn. Like others have said, the grammar isn't great and it didn't really flow. For me as an eighth grader, I don't think 8th graders use that type of language. But then again, I'm just nit-picking.

All in all it was good read. My favourite thing:the ending :)

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 rounded to 5.

The String Quartet is a beautifully written story about four 14-year-olds who end up in another world. Before leaving for boarding school, Dawn finds an old cello that had once belonged to her grandfather. While her and her string quartet are practicing, the cello takes them into a new unpredictable world.

The beginning of the book is the story of Dawn's grandfather and his best friend in the military. It took me a bit to get into the story, but I really enjoyed reading about these two boys. I was kind of disappointed when they were only the first chapter. I wanted to know what had happened to them. But that's figured out later on in the book.

It was refreshing to read a book that was beautifully written. The characters were well rounded and likeable, and it was an interesting story. There was a lot of twists and turns and I wanted to find out what would happen next. Very unpredictable. It didn't always keep my attention, but I don't fault that on the author. It's based on my own interests.

There was no love story in this book, because they are 14. I always love a good love story, but in this, it wasn't needed. There was so much going on. There were little crushes, but it didn't really go into it much.

The story could use one more round editing to fix any little mistake. But that isn't a big deal. Overall, I really enjoyed it and I'm excited to see more from this author!

[Sarah Yokobosky Belcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a very interesting storyline, which intrigued me throughout reading it. It also had several plot twists which I did not see coming, which I appreciated because I commonly figure out plot lines early on, but this one kept me guessing a bit.

I also liked how the first chapter started out in a totally different place and time to set up the story, then fast-forwarded to the main setting. However, the book didn't follow up that initial story line with sufficient details later on to connect the two settings/stories. It was easy to assume the connection details, but their lack left me feeling disconnected.

Additionally, at times the characters were very well developed, but not at other times. The effect for me was choppy; the characters personal growth/change was sometimes hard to accept. Also, most of the story is told through Dawn's perspective, but just a few times through others' perspectives and thoughts instead, which threw me a bit as well. I almost felt like it was jumping narrative forms, even though in actuality it was not.

I did like the storyline though, and it seems to be perfectly set-up for a sequel, which would very likely tie up some of the loose ends.

[Missy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, so I could give an honest review. I read books from all reading levels and enjoy a good book, but unfortunately this book missed the mark. For the most part, I enjoyed to the book except for the constant grammatical errors and misused words. I know it is impossible to spot every error, but there were multiple simple elementary errors throughout the book. Also, I believe the story lacked a bit of substance. ***POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT*** I would have liked to know more about the school's housing groups and how they came about as well about the world the teenagers find themselves in. I also was not fond of the ending. The story ended abruptly. The ending did not feel like an ending scene, but more of a supporting scene that leads into the ending. I aware due to the intended audiences the book needs to maintain a reading level standard. With that in mind, I would not recommend this book to any reading level, yet. This book needs to be put back in the works and receive a "face lift." I believe this wold have been a great book if the grammatical errors were corrected and the ending was finished.

[Asseya · Rating 4 out of 5]

The String Quartet is one of the most interesting YA novels I have read by far. Just when you think you have the story figured out, it shifts into another plot twist that will make you confused in a good way. I have to say that is one of the indications of a good book for me, because I enjoy the element of surprise in a material. I've given it four stars because of well-characterized leads that are relatable in terms of personality and experiences. The myth referencing is also a smart inclusion, because it has given the story so much depth than the regular adventure-fantasy.

I've given it short of a star because I believe technicalities can still be improved, especially with another round of copy check. But then, those are just minor stuff and maybe I'm just picky to a point, so yeah.

All in all, a thumbs up for The String Quartet! If you have a liking to music, fantasy, and adventure wrapped in one book, this is a must read for you.

(Review given in exchange for complimentary copy. Thank you to the author

[Desert Rose Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

"...The String Quartet tells of an adventure appropriate for readers of all ages." This quoted description fits fairly well.

Mixing mythology with a realistic, historical fiction feel, this story takes it's reader on a magical adventure. Following a young girl through a fantasy kept this book clean, innocent, and fun. The suspense created by the mystery kept my attention, and held on til the last page.

While it is a book appropriate for readers of all ages, I would say it fits best with middle school and young high school students. The air, feel and voice all cater to a younger audience, and is one I would recommend to students. I enjoyed this book quite a bit, and look forward to reading more from this author.

*I received an eCopy of this book, from the author, to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Star · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE STRING QUARTET is loosely based on the Ring Cycle, which features four students who stumble upon the Rhinegold and must find a way to defeat The Charmed Duke at his own game. Dawn Arterberry is lonely, having lost her mother being sent off to a boarding school by her father. Before she leaves, she finds her grandfather’s cello in the old barn out back. She doesn’t realize it will lead her and three other schoolmates on a wild adventure through time & space to a different realm with different rules. However, The Charmed Duke is playing for keeps…

I enjoyed the characters, especially Dawn. The four main characters were all given their time to shine and to explain their individual backstory without it taking away from the main story. It is also good that readers don’t have to be familiar with the Ring Cycle to understand this story. THE STRING QUARTET is a pleasurable fantasy novel for all ages.

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an arc of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book in one sitting. It was an okay quick read. The writing is very good, but I don't think this book was for me. THAT'S NOT SAYING IT ISN'T A GOOD BOOK I'm just saying it wasn't my type of book. I enjoy a good ya book but this was a little too much on the young side. I think if I was a few years younger I would have rated this book a little higher.

The character are strong and the story starts off that way too but did dip a little on the slower side towards the end. The action was so so and the novel had flowing issues.
I feel some of these issues were so so resolved while others were not.

As far as a first book I would say it's pretty good. If Dan were to write something for an older audience I would gladly read it. If you're a younger reader and getting into ya this book would more than likely be for you.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author was kind enough to approach me and offer a free e-copy of his book for an honest review. I'm very grateful to him.

The String Quartet is a story about a cello found in a barn by an unsuspecting girl named Dawn who is bound for boarding school. There is more to this cello than meets the eye. She takes it with her to the boarding school. She and her friends seem to be settling into normal life at the boarding school until, one day, something happens and changes everything.

This definitely reads like it's a middle grade book. It starts out slow, and I was afraid it was going to be a bore. But I stuck with it, and then it surprised me and got exciting. I loved the descriptions of the settings. Very well done. I also enjoyed the relationships between Dawn and her friends, particularly the burgeoning friendship between her and the other girl in the quartet.

Thank you to Mr. Hupalo for a chance to join the adventure with Dawn and her friends!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided with a free copy of this book so I could give an honest review.

WOW. I can honestly say that I was not expecting to be upset when the book ended. I wanted the book to continue. I need more!

I slowing became entwined with Dawn as she traversed through life. My imagination ran with each scene, feeling as Dawn and then Abigail, seeing the experiences from difference points of view. It was interesting to see the connections weave throughout the storyline and how the characters learn in time they all have different strengths that can help each other. The people who had no or bad connections slowly evolve into friends as they see each other and themselves in a different light.

This is a great chapter book for children or adults. It's a book that can be discussed for fun and/or lessons learned. It's a book that can be shared as a family or as peaceful quiet downtime. I really hope book 2 is just as amazing.

[Heather D · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent quick read book. It did take me a little bit to get into. I was a little lost at the beginning of the book thinking it was going to be a more serious world war II book with an animated cover. . . I did eventually see the connect with the rest of the book. It was a quick read - as in the story was pretty quick to unravel and there wasn't a ton of back details and thick story development. There were some very wordy distracting parts when I just wanted the story to continue without the extra "fluff" if you will. It was an interesting concept with the Cello being a very important part. That was different. I finished feeling like the end was rushed and not as developed as the beginning of the story (the introduction to Dawn - not the opening). There were other parts of the book left unresolved to me. Like: school, the new friendships that were only really partly developed - to me, and the father and home. . . Quick and light read for a budding reader.

[Carli Anderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

"The String Quartet," by Dan Hupalo, is written for elementary to junior high age kids. The story follows four 8th grade students through their adventures traveling between worlds. A magic cello and the quartet's powerful music is what powers their adventures. The group of 13-year olds has to learn to harness the magic to save a friend, and ultimately a kingdom. The story itself is pretty good. The author has good imagery and his writing flows, but someone desperately needs to do some editing. There are countless amounts of spelling and grammatical errors throughout the text. Which, in a book meant for children, is a big no-no. They are still learning proper grammar themselves, so throwing in a book that is incorrect would only be confusing. There are also a handful of swear words included, and I don't agree with 13-years olds swearing. That was a deal breaker for me. I give this book 2 out of 5 stars. If you are looking for an appropriate book for your child, don't pick this one.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book follows the story of a 14-year old girl whose mother has passed away and now she is trying to adapt to a new school and meeting new people. She stumbles on a "magic" cello that takes her and some of her new friends on a grand adventure. I thought it was really neat how the author spans the story from the first chapter happening in World War II and jumps forward to present day and then later bridges that gap. The story showcases growing friendships, practicing repeatedly to get better at what you're doing (in this case, playing an instrument) and throws in some magical time travel as well. This is geared toward a YA audience, but I think it would be an enjoyable light hearted book for adults to read as well.

NOTE: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Jeff Schuster · Rating 5 out of 5]

After I got started reading The String Quartet, I could not put it down. I am not a veracious reader, but ended up reading this book in a few days as I could not wait to read the rest of the story. If you enjoyed the Harry Potter series, you will definitely love this book. There are some parallels to Harry Potter… but The String Quartet is its own story with some amazing twists and turns. The author started several mini-stories in the book that all merged together nicely at the end. The characters and settings are so vivid that you can envision each event with clear detail. This first book is a complete story in itself, but I am guessing that the author may be planning sequels. I will be one of the first people in line to read the next books in this series.

[Todd Kinsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really struggled how to rate this book because it just didn't speak to me at all. Let me start by saying that The String Quartet is a well written Young Adult novel geared towards teen girls. Unlike so many other self-published novels, Hupalo's book is well edited but probably would've benefited from some story assistance. If could've given 3.5 stars I would have, unfortunately that's not an option.

Author Dan Hupalo has a fertile imagination and I hope he continues to write because he is not lacking in talent. That being said, this book was written for a very narrow audience and aging combat veterans, no matter how well-read, was not that audience.

If you're a fan of YA geared towards the fairer sex then you'll probably enjoy this book.

[Donna Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was asked by he author to review the book and I was excited to start reading. The story really grabbed my attention, at first and I couldn't put it down. Unfortunately, after some technical difficulties with device I was using, by the time I was able to read the book again, I had trouble getting back into the story, where I had left off. I usually read books very quickly, and although the story was well written and entertaining, it took my a very long time to finish it. However, I'm still giving it 4 stars because once I did finish, I was happy with the way the story went and how the book was ended!

[Lorralei Hoerner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is different then what I am used to reading when it comes to young adult. The first half of the book was really good. I liked the story and where it was going. I wanted to give it 3 1/2 stars, but I rounded it up to 4. After the first half of the book, I got lost and I felt like I was missing something from the story. Some of the paragraphs seemed like "after thoughts" or more "random thoughts". After I got through that lull of feeling like what is going on and being lost, the last quarter of the book was great. Overall I enjoyed most of the story. I am curious what the storyline will be when the 2nd book comes out sometime this year.