Daisy Goodwin has done it again with this incredible biographical fiction about Maria Callas, famed Opera singer, and lover of Aristotle Onassis. 

As usual with Daisy Goodwin’s stories, I found myself transfixed by the story of Maria’s life and her relationship with Onassis. It was fascinating to see how their courtship affected her performances and how she grew to become an unstoppable force in an industry ruled by men.

Why we like it: I had previously read Gill Paul‘s story Jackie & Maria and thought I might find this book redundant, but I was wrong. They bring two different perspectives that flush out the Maria - Onassis- Jackie O love triangle. #gifted by St. Martins Press

I was hoping for a fictional biography and that's sort of what I experienced. Overall I did not emphasize with the lead. I didn't connect with anyone in the story, maybe the maid Bruna, but only slightly. The audiobook version, which is how I read this book, added recordings of what I assumed was Maria Callas. It didn't detract as I often find musical interludes do in audiobooks. The voice actor did a wonderful job though.

Before this read, I had heard the voice of Maria Callas, but not in context and never in English, so wouldn't have been able to identify it if asked to do so. . .I'd heard her name, knew she had a reputation for being a difficult person, and that's about it.

Daisy Goodwin's reimagining of the life of Maria Callas provides an opportunity to learn more about the world she was born into, the family who helped her (or didn't), friends who were true (or weren't), and her experiences as she walked the Diva Path with her Voice. The read wasn't altogether a pleasant one, as the characters - all - were not trustable, likeable people. I'll grant you that the world they lived in was certainly pitiless and cruel, and no one was altruistically trying to create a nicer world for others in this story.

The abrupt ending didn't prevent me from developing a silky sympathy for this woman who worked hard, fought hard and won during her beautiful years and appreciating the brief report of her fading lonely years. Once finished with the read, modern technology helped me find her images, videos and voice, which truly did reduce me to tears. For that, I am grateful - in-person connection through shows must have been a deeply moving experience if she can affect me so far from her time amongst mortals.

*A sincere thank you to Daisy Goodwin, St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an ARC to read and independently review.*

Some of my earliest recollections of tabloid magazines featured covers of Aristotle Onassis and the two women he pitted against each other for his attention, Jackie Kennedy and legendary soprano, Maria Callas. To this day, I still can't see the attraction to this man who famously said, "If there weren’t any women all the money in the world wouldn’t matter."
The author specifically focuses on Maria's story, and Jackie remains a peripheral character. Maria's early years are delivered through sporadic flashbacks that help the reader understand her insecurities and journey. It might be hard to imagine someone known as Diva, to be insecure, but Maria was accustomed to being used and wanted only for her voice. Her mother tried to exploit her talent from a young age and Maria's much older husband preferred to be her manager more than her husband; often overbooking her for financial gain. So, when Aristotle Onassis came along and treated her as a beautiful woman and not a moneymaker, she fell hard into a love affair that lasted for 9 years. 
All through the novel, there were signs of the Lothario Onassis really was, and it frustrated me that Maria was blind to it. But of course, I had the benefit of history, knowing the outcome of all the sacrifices she made for this man and how she was dropped in return. Maria might have been blindsided by Onassis marrying Jackie, but Jackie most certainly knew the extent of Maria's relationship to Onassis; their affair was international public knowledge.    
The glitterati of the era, such as Princess Grace, Winston Churchill, and Elizabeth Taylor are part of Maria's story. One of my favorite scenes takes place when Maria rubs shoulders with Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe backstage at the famous gala held for JFK's birthday. 
The audiobook which includes snippets of Maria singing. The author's research made me appreciate what training and physical stamina is required of an opera singer. After reading this, I was compelled to spend some time watching her performances and interviews online. She really had an incredible voice!

I didn't get a chance to listen to his audiobook before it expired. When I get time I still want to listen to it, but probably through Libby.

I did not know much about Maria Callas prior to reading this, but the author explored various aspects of her life with interesting detail. Her difficult youth, especially her relationship with her mother, contributed to making her the woman she grew to be and seemed never far from her mind even as an adult. As she rose to fame as an operatic soprano, she seemed to encounter few people that had her best interests in mind and was taken advantage of professionally as well as personally. At the same time, she did not always seem to be a sympathetic character. The added details of mid-20th century fashion and celebrities added to the appeal of the story (it's not just for opera fans). The audiobook included snippets of her various beautiful arias, making me look for additional footage and photographs from her life. The author's thorough research was apparent and appreciated.

I wanted to read this book because I have read many books about Jackie, and needed to know more about Maria. What I have learned is that Maria was a beautiful woman with an extraordinary voice. She was a woman that married a man that completely wanted to be married to THE Maria Callas and not Maria. When she met Ari, she thought things would turn around, and maybe it did. I hate to spoil the book for you, but we all know he ended up married to Jackie. If you read this book you will see Jackie wasn’t the only woman in his life.

I did both the audio and the e book, and I do believe I preferred the audio as the narrator was outstanding!!!

Although I had heard the name Maria Callas in relation to opera, I didn't know anything about her prior to listening to this audio book. I liked how her singing was interspersed in the audio version of this book and felt that it added to my enjoyment of the story. The author did a wonderful job of telling the story of Maria's life and opened my eyes to the struggles that she went through both professionally and personally. Lorelei King is a narrator that I have listened to before and I enjoy how she narrates the story and brings it to life. I really liked the author interview at the end of the audio book also. This is a very good work of historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this audio book from Macmillan Audio through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Liked it, fun while I was reading it

In the glittering and ruthlessly competitive world of opera, Maria Callas was known simply as la divina: the divine one. When she met the fabulously rich Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, for the first time in her life, she believed she’d found someone who saw the woman within the legendary soprano. She fell desperately in love.  He introduced her to a life of unbelievable luxury, showering her with jewels and sojourns in the most fashionable international watering holes, and then suddenly, it was over. The international press announced that Aristotle Onassis would marry the most famous woman in the world, former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, leaving Maria to pick up the pieces. But it was only in confronting the heartbreak of losing the man she loved that Maria Callas found her true voice and went on to triumph.

I knew of Callas as an opera singer, but never anything more about her. I enjoyed this novel like I enjoy a biopic film. I felt very present in her life while reading it, but once i was finished, I haven't thought much more about it. The storytelling was really good though, we learn about her backstory as it's weaved into her adult life flawlessly. The inner emotions and conflicts of Maria were very well depicted.  

The narrator, Lorelei King, did a good job, I had no trouble understanding who was saying what, where, when, and with what expression/intension. I especially enjoyed hearing Callas sing interstitially throughout the audio book. 

Thank you to Macmillan Audio, NetGalley, and author Daisy Goodwin for providing me with a digital ARC copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. Diva is out January 23, 2024.

"Diva" by Daisy Goodwin immerses readers into the surprisingly competitive world of opera, where Maria Callas stands as the epitome of talent, drama, and beauty. Goodwin delves into the life of this legendary soprano, capturing both the Callas's triumphs and heartbreaks that shaped her career and personal life.

The novel begins by portraying Callas's challenging upbringing where her golden voice becomes both a blessing and a curse providing readers with a glimpse into the resilience and strength that would later define her..

The story peaks interest when Maria meets Aristotle Onassis, a rich Greek shipping magnate. For the first time, she believes she has found someone who sees beyond the her vocal talent to the woman within. The narrative unfolds into a story of love, luxury, and the glamorous life. However, Maria's happiness is abruptly shattered when Onassis announces his marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy, the former First Lady. The novel captures the heartbreak and emotional turmoil that Maria experiences as she is left to pick up the pieces of a shattered love affair.

Goodwin skillfully portrays the public scrutiny throughout Callas's life and explores Maria's journey of resilience in the aftermath of heartbreak.. The novel beautifully depicts the evolution of a woman who, despite the challenges and setbacks, emerges stronger and more empowered.

The narration of this book was divine and the opera interludes between sections enhanced the narrative. I found myself listening to Maria Callas's performances in a new light. This novel captured the essence of her extraordinary talent and the strong will that allowed her to rise above adversity.

3.5⭐️

I’ve struggled with how to review this story. I think, ultimately, the problem comes from the fact that it is just that: a story. It’s historical fiction about a prominent person, but how much is history and how much is fiction? It’s hard to know- even more so having gone into this knowing next to nothing about Maria Callas. But I felt some potential for bias in the portrayal of her fall from strong, independent woman, straight to weak, needy “kept woman” in the presence of her rich lover. And then there was the explicit depiction of their unhealthy love life- which had to be an imagined account, and felt, well, “icky,” for lack of a better word- because they WERE real people. Toxic fanfic smut was really unnecessary and unwanted in this case, in my opinion.

Yet, that aside, the story kept me thoroughly engaged from start to finish. So again, it was an engaging story, even if I’m still undecided whether I could say I enjoyed it.

Lorelei King did a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. I also appreciated the clips of music performances in the interludes.

Thank you Daisy Goodwin, St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

Diva

What a story! I have never heard of the famous opera singer Marie Callas. But man did her story and life draw me in.

The story started off a bit slow for me, which I think is typical when reading such a character driven story and one that pertains to someone’s life.

I loved hearing how Maria fell in love with someone other than her husband and the multiple famous characters she then came across. A lot of whom I had heard of.

I really felt so connected to her story and after finishing I wanted to learn more about Maria and her life so I did a deep dive on google to learn more about her.

I think that’s Daisy Goodwin did such a fabulous job writing her story but adding enough fictionional aspects that allowed readers to enjoy a book like this.

This was such an interesting and intriguing read. I truly loved the glamourous world that Maria took us on and her triumph of finding her voice and fame again after such heartache.

The narrator did such an amazing job
!

This is was a historical figure I was unfamiliar with and I thought it was interesting to hear about her life. It was sad to hear how a strong woman couldn’t stand up for the integrity she deserved in a relationship. I liked how the audio book included snippets of music.

I usually love historical fiction, especially those focusing on strong women, but Diva, fell flat for me.
Centered on Maria Callas, renowned singer, it felt more like a recitation of her the events of her life than falling into it, as I enjoy doing with more enjoyable novels.
I was less bothered by the factual errors that other readers have pointed out, as I knew very little about the life of Callas, but the prose felt flat to me, and I just did not become absorbed in her story.

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I became fascinated by Maria Callas when I read another historical fiction book which introduced me to Maria in Jackie and Maria by Gill Paul. I loved this book because it was focused only on Callas. I loved the audio which has snippets of opera and the interview with the author. I know I now need to read a biography about her. A wonderfully richly written book about one of the greatest voices of opera.

Thank you to #Netgalley for a free copy of this audio book in exchange for a fair review.

My experience with opera is ….well…not “non-existence” (I went to Indiana University–students study there to be opera singers and a high school friend did just that) but it tends to center around the cd of The World’s Very Best Opera For Kids, which, like the dramatized audio NIV Bible, I used to calm my son in the car when he was a very active elementary schooler. I also read aloud to my kids from Sing Me A Story: The Metropolitan Opera’s Book of Opera Stories for Kids. And, for those laughing at this idea–yes, it took work! But I’d make a fancy tea and we’d read poetry and a ballet or opera story (there’s a matching ballet stories book–Dance Me a Story). I also played classical music, including Purcell’s Dido and Aneas, when things go a little too tired, tense, or rowdy at home. Harp music was another thing to calm the waters (I’m pretty sure Michelle Duggar stole that from me, lol).

Also, remember my Kennedy books? Well, Jackie going from drop-dead-handsome JFK to a guy with a Canadian Navy frigate for a yacht but who looked like a bucket of frogs–well….yes, I’m interested.

The Story


In the late 1950’s and 1960’s opera star, aka “Diva” Maria Callas and shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis were the “world’s best known Greeks” well, living Greeks anyway. Even though Callas was born in New York her parents were Greek.

While married to his wife, Tina, the mother of his two children, Onassis went after Maria Callas. A trophy, if not to go with his “trophy wife.” Maria was also married, but was childless, and bored by her husband. On a cruise with the Churchills on Ari’s yacht The Christina (named for his daughter) in spite of her incredible talent and her amazing career, Maria ell for his lines like a school girl.

“Why by the cow when the milk is free?” Is said in just about every culture–with reason.

Maria fell so hard for Ari, yet he once he’d bedded her it was obvious to everyone but her that he was on to the Bouvier sisters–Lee Radziwell and Jackie Kennedy. So much so that he was invited to JFK’s funeral–a real coup. We know what happened next…..

All the while, Maria was “spending the gold coins” that were her voice. She knew her days in opera were numbered. Oh, sure, she could go on recording records and even giving concerts, but a full opera? That would end.

Meanwhile, Ari and their physical passion took over whenever Ari needed it.

My Thoughts

This story was well told. I could have done with a little less play-by-play of their “intimacy.” There are trends in how that is told–did you know that? No matter the historical era men in books now give women a very intimate pleasure and rarely get to be on top. So glad to read that Madam Callas and Ari were on trend. (Honestly, it wasn’t a big part of this story and, for once, it did go with the story).

Daisy Goodwin tell a heck of a story and this one really was well told. She picked the perfect opening for the story, too. (No spoilers). Those women who are brought up only to marry money. Wow. Compare that to the woman who developed a career that made her the face of opera. I always thought it was beyond tacky for Jackie to marry Ari, but it is now even more so. Like Princess Diana, she settled for her sister’s cast-offs. Not good.

I did find it interesting that Maria saw herself as the “step-child” of her family, yet everything went to provide her with voice lessons. She remembered having to wear her big sister’s clothing and her mother endlessly praising her sister. Her mother making her sing for money during the war. I was left wondering what the truth was there. I’m a parent of two adults. What was the phrase Buckingham Palace used? “Recollections may vary.” I did snort when there was mention of Maria and “my truth”. Of for the love of God can we bury that phrase? Her OPINION can be different. The truth is the truth. No matter–that’s splitting hairs. I felt for Maria, deeply, throughout the book.

I remember the rather tacky movie, The Greek Tycoon, with Jacqueline Bisset. The relationship Maria Callas settled for was about as awful. Everyone else could see it. She couldn’t. Jackie (and her sister, Lee, had she wanted to) knew how to close the deal–get the ring and the priest. Maria was too kind, too forgiving. Ari saw it and took advantage of it. It’s ok, Maria. I was naive and trusting, too. I understand. At least I got the marriage license and he was handsome. Onassis is one of the ugliest men every. His taste in eye wear–the glasses he didn’t like to see Maria wear–was beyond awful. But a man who takes a mistress will take another one. As the saying goes, if he marries the mistress there’s a job opening.

One nice touch I must mention was the inclusion of snippets of Maria singing in the audio version. Amazing. Such a great way to change to the next part of the story.

A final note. I pulled out my copy of The Tongs and the Bones--the late Lord Harewood’s memoirs. The eldest grandchild of King George V, George Harewood was huge in the opera world of the 1950s and 1960s. I took time to read what he wrote about Maria. Her career was amazing–Diva is maybe not enough of a title.



My Verdict
3.75

Too much description of their intimate acts for my taste–even if it wasn’t that much. Even if it was a part of the story. It was just a bit tacky, so down a notch to 3.75.

I listened to the audio.

Maria Callas was the toast of the opera world for years. She was a legendary soprano with a divine voice and insecurities to match. When she meets Aristotle Onassis, her world changed drastically.

Maria is a fascinating character. She was so talented and yet, so insecure. My heart went out to her on more than one occasion. Then there is Aristotle Onassis. He played a huge role in Maria’s life, almost to the point of breaking her…heart mind and soul.

I honestly have never heard of Maria Callas. So, needless to say, I learned a great deal. Daisy Goodwin did some excellent research and put it all together for a wonderful novel.

Lorelei King is the narrator of this audiobook. She could not have done a better job! She brought these characters to life!

Need a story which will have you researching and wanting to know more…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Imagine a life of tremendous fame and unparalleled singing talent. Diva shows the life of Maria Callas vividly. Filled with celebrities and abuse, her life was like a soap opera. I went into this book not knowing much about her but feel like I have a better appreciation for her strength. The audiobook is well performed by Lorelei King who took on a challenge bringing so many famous voices to life (Onassis, Monroe. . .).

Diva

Author: Daisy Goodwin
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Publication Jan 23, 2024
Category: Historical Romance

My rating: 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.

The book has interesting tidbits about wars and famous people, evocative conversations and relationships, and transitions between chapters include vocal snippets. The reading level was below what I enjoy, but if you like historical fiction and an easy read, give it a try.

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I have been fascinated with Maria Callas since I read another book about her and was excited to learn more. Unfortunately, this book felt flat to me. The characters never quite came to life and Maria herself didn’t have the fire and passion that is associated with her Greek temperament. It felt more like reading a weakly dramatized textbook than a novel. It was slow and repetitive in places and while I enjoyed the descriptions and explanation of the various operas, the rest fell short.