Descending Thirds

· Story Merchant Books · Narrated by Mary Jane Wells
1 review
Audiobook
12 hr 38 min
Unabridged
Eligible
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About this audiobook

Descending Thirds is an epic tale of love, ambition, and betrayal set against the lush world of classical music in 1965 New York—a searing triangular love affair that unfolds like a symphony of passion and suspense, culminating in two intriguing twists.

At the world’s most prestigious piano competition, three lives collide: Alexandra von Triessen, a gifted but emotionally guarded pianist, is torn between two extraordinary brothers: Sebastian D’Antonio, the devastatingly handsome showman who lights up every room he enters, and Conrad D’Antonio, the mysterious other-worldly genius whose music seems to rise from another realm.

What begins as artistic rivalry transforms into a spellbinding triangle of desire, ambition, and betrayal. Each encounter, each performance, builds like a crescendo toward heartbreak, redemption, and the haunting question: How much would you sacrifice for love... and for greatness?

Musical score snippets and original compositions woven throughout the narration give this story an elevated, cinematic dimension—allowing listeners to hear the emotions thrumming beneath every glance and confession. The result is a sensual, transcendent experience that merges romance and art into one unforgettable performance.

Inspired by Conn’s own mother—a pianist battling End Stage Parkinson’s who continues to play despite her failing hands—Descending Thirds resonates on a profoundly human level. It’s a story of love tested by ambition, of devotion to both people and art, and of beauty’s inevitable cost.

For listeners who crave intense, character-driven romance, sweeping emotion, and a touch of musical magic—Descending Thirds is a page-turner that delivers a concerto of heartache and passion you’ll feel long after the final note fades.

Descending Thirds is an epic tale of love, ambition, and betrayal set against the lush world of classical music in 1965 New York—a searing triangular love affair that unfolds like a symphony of passion and suspense, culminating in two intriguing twists. At the world’s most prestigious piano compe...

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Ratings and reviews

1 review
Laura Rose
June 20, 2026
This was my first experience with this author's work. I was captivated by the story within the first few paragraphs, and I had a hard time dragging myself away to complete daily duties. I was amazed by the worldbuilding, and I appreciated the quotes from famous people which opened the chapters. I thought the story was well-written and well-crafted. The characters in the story were memorable, and the twists kept my attention engaged. I thought Mary Jane Wells' narration was great.
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