Diva tells the story of Maria Callus, her life before and after becoming a famous opera singer and her relationship with Aristotle Onassis. This is someone I had never heard of before or knew anything about before going into it. The story kept me engaged and I enjoyed reading about her and her life. I do wish that we would have heard more of her story after Onassis went and married the former first lady.

I found Daisy Goodwin's novel, Diva, to be a educational and refreshing look at a historical figure I knew nothing about prior to picking up the book. Famous Greek opera singer, Maria Callas, made for a very intriguing character and I loved looking in on her life as an artist and a celebrity.

Thank you to NetGalley and St, Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this novel.

I'm a big fan of Daisy Goodwin and I loved Diva until the final chapter which fell flat and incomplete for the beautiful story she'd crafted. The entire book was a wonder story of Maria Callas, her love affair with Aristotle Onassis, her marriage, and most importantly the what-if of the life of one of the most renowned singers of the last century.

This book was perfectly paced and pulled you in from the first page. I loved the flashbacks that highlighted the why of her actions in the novel's present time. I felt sympathy and wanted Maria to triumph over all the patriarchal crap she had to deal with to become the Diva she was. The story unfolded cohesively until the ending which fell flat for me, La Callas deserved more, especially with how her life ended in real life.

I received a copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest opinion.

I absolutely devoured this title, invested from the start and did additional research on my own as I read. I haven't enjoyed a biographical novel this much in quite some time. The characters were vividly portrayed, as they were in real life, and was riveted. The writing was well paced, nuanced and captivated. Strong feminine powerhouse characters can become caricatures and this waa well done. Will read more from this author. Thankful for the opportunity to read and share my thoughts.

A very immersive reading experience. Having a strong background in opera, I was excited to read this story and really enjoyed that part of it. I wish there was more creative writing throughout but it was an enjoyable read.

WOW- I am seriously blown away by this story and it prompted me to the biggest dive into this story/ history. I don't think I've ever heard of Maria Callas before picking up this book and now I know it's a name I'll never forget.

I thought this story was so well researched and did an amazing job of captivating readers from the very beginning. Callas felt very humanized for someone who was known to have a larger than life personality. I think I'd love to reread in an audio format soon!

Maria Callas, also known as La Divine, was one of the best opera singers of all time. Some would argue she was the best. While she frequently found herself in the midst of drama and scandal, this was usually overlooked once she started singing. When she falls in love with one of the richest men in the world, Aristotle Onassis, she suffers a very public broken heart. Everyone who has ever taken American History knows how that one ended. Hint: not well for Maria.

In Diva, I was introduced to Maria Callas for the first time. Goodwin told her story in an intriguing and entertaining way that kept me invested throughout the novel. Very well done. Definitely recommend.

A wonderful historical fiction book with a flair of romance on the life of Maria Callas. Maria who was raised in Nazi occupied Greece by a domineering mother became one of the world’s finest opera singer. Her relationship with Aristotle Onassis renders the story as deeply personal and intimate. Along with their unexpected breakup with Onassis as he gets involved and subsequently engaged to Jacqueline Kennedy, leaving Callas vulnerability and internal struggles on display. Maria Callas ambitions and pursuit of her truth leads her to greatness.

Thank you #NetGalley, St.Martin’sPress, #DaisyGoodwin and #Diva for the ebook for my honest review.

This is a historical fiction account of Maria Callas' life. Though a famous opera singer, she suffered many hardships earlier in her life and struggled as a woman in her career. Her infamous relationship with Aristotle Onassis, who later married the widowed Jacqueline Kennedy, has also been a defining factor of her history. Her unrivaled talent is the true star of her life, though. It was a captivating read.

Diva is a well-researched and engaging read, particularly recommended for those with an interest in opera or the lives of iconic figures. It's a story of love, loss, and the price of fame, perfect for fans of historical fiction with a touch of romantic drama. However, those seeking a more comprehensive examination of Callas's musical legacy might want to look elsewhere.

Love love love love love, caused me to go on the biggest dive to learn more about this story! I knew a little from the Jackie O stories but dang this woman lived - was such a good book I love these kind of books similar feel to the frank and ava one, I love old Hollywood stories! Definitely recommend

Daisy Goodwin's "Diva" is a captivating masterpiece that deserves a place on any opera lover's bookshelf, or frankly, anyone who enjoys a powerful biographical fiction. Goodwin weaves a spellbinding tale of Maria Callas, the legendary soprano known as "La Divina," the divine one. This wasn't just a story about a singer, though Goodwin beautifully captures the passion and dedication Callas poured into her art. It's a story about a woman, complex and strong, who fought for her voice and her place in a world that often tried to diminish her.

Goodwin doesn't shy away from the complexities of Callas' life. We see the young girl struggling to find her footing, the demanding mentor who shaped her talent, and the passionate but ultimately devastating love affair that colored much of her life. I found myself completely invested in Callas' journey, both on stage and off. Goodwin's prose is rich and evocative, transporting me to the grand opera houses of Europe and the bustling streets of New York City.

"Diva" wasn't just entertaining, it was deeply educational. Goodwin's portrayal of Callas' dedication to her craft made me want to learn more about this legendary singer. I found myself down a rabbit hole on YouTube, listening to Callas' most famous recordings, mesmerized by the raw power and emotion in her voice.

Whether you're an opera aficionado or simply someone who enjoys a well-told story about a remarkable woman, "Diva" is a must-read. Goodwin's masterful storytelling brings Callas to life, flaws and all, making her a character you can't help but root for. This is a 5-star biography that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Marin's Press for the opportunity to read and review

I never expected to read a book about an opera singer, but Diva by Daisy Goodwin kept me enthralled until the last page. The book covers a period of time in the life of Maria Callas, arguably one of the most famous and talented opera singers. She performed at presidential events and was referred to as la divina, the divine one, for her singing prowess. One of the central plotlines of the book focuses on her ultimately doomed relationship with Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis.

Throughout this book, you will think that you're reading about fictional characters because this book is so rich in detail from the preparations that Maria takes before she performs to the decadent and glamorous parties and get-togethers where she finds herself. The jewelry and clothing she wears come alive on the pages. The scenery, whether on stage or on the sea when she's sailing in Onassis's yacht, Christina, brighten up the pages. And the romance between Maria and Ari makes you swoon until you realize that she may not be the only one in Onassis's sights.

A little bit of Maria's start as an opera singer and her relationships with her family receive some attention. Allegedly, her mother roped her into singing at first and favored her older sister. She married a man who prized her for her voice and relied upon it to make them money. With her famous voice, she was given entry into places reserved for the rich, famous, and royalty, yet she didn't feel truly loved by anyone until she met Onassis.

I liked how the story and trying and traumatic times she experienced mirrored many of the operas that she starred in and the many arias she sang. Her life sadly reflected the tragic stories she sang about, which literally fed her fire for singing them with an incredible range of emotions. It's hard to believe that these events, while fictionalized to a degree, really happened. The only reason I gave it five stars was because it only covers this period in her life and quickly dashes through her childhood.

During the book, you also learn of her very real fears of losing the voice that took her many places and contributed to her livelihood. When would her voice finally falter? Would she ever be able to sustain a career that relied solely on how well she could reach different notes? And would she ever find true love and not feel like a part in one of the operas she participated in or was she doomed the moment she became Maria Callas?

Even if you're not interested in opera, I love the time period that this takes place in and the whirlwind romance that sweeps Maria off her feet. The story is solid and captivating. I enjoyed all the cameos from real people who at one time were at the height of fame. The conversations and moments between Maria and celebrities ranging from actors and actresses, gossip columnists, royalty, and more appear and make this book priceless. If that's what you're looking for in a book, you won't be disappointed with this one.

Could not put this down. I went into this knowing nothing about Maria Callas, or opera. This was an engaging portrait of a complex woman who lived an incredible life. Great book club title

Diva is tawdry, juicy, and brazen, which is fine. The issue is that it's a fictionalized version of real people from recent history. which seems a little bit brazen itself.

While I've heard Maria Callas' recordings, I knew little about her personal life until I read Diva: A Novel by Daisy Goodwin. Although this novel is a work of historical fiction and the author admits some liberties were taken, it doesn't change the fact that it's an intriguing story about an extraordinary woman.

The narrative is filled with pain, fear, insecurity, humiliation, determination, tenacity, strength, and talent. It's a captivating roller coaster ride. Add a complex family dynamic, including a toxic stage mom, an absent father, and a golden child sibling, and you get a compelling story about a formidable woman.

The Aristotle Onassis and Jackie O. affair adds another layer of intrigue, especially when Jackie O.'s sister is factored in. The situation doesn't paint anyone in a positive light.

I love historical fiction, especially if it revolves around real people--Diva, by Daisy Goodwin, did not disappoint! I know very little about opera, and nothing about Maria Callas, and this book had me very interested, and running to Google people, images, and stories about Maria several times throughout the course of the book. I have read a couple of Daisy's books and have loved them, so she is quickly becoming an auto-buy author for me!

I was so curious about Maria Callas, and this book was fantastic! It gave such insight to her person, not her persona, and it really made you consider who she was behind the voice and the tabloid stories of the day. I loved this book!

3 stars

This story is about Maria Callas and her relationship with Ari Onassis. This book is a historical romance sorta. It talks about what happened during WWII and the civil war in Greece and learning more about her and Ari's lives.

I found that the writing was a little simple which is good for most because it makes it easier to pick up and continue reading. For me the book kind of fell short on expectations I read a lot of historical fiction and this didn't have much depth and the plot was a little loose. Over all still an enjoyable read for a one time thing.

Thank you St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

WOW. A deeply moving and un-put-downable novel that reads like a real life drama. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free advance copy.