Bel Canto *****

There are few books that I have read that have been as captivating as this novel. It is outstanding. The drama is created by having a group of distinguised characters from around the world attending a birthday celebration for a imaginary dictator of an unidentified South American country. An internationally famous opera singer is the featured entertainment of the evening. The event is devasted by the invasion of a group of violent, well-armed revolutionaries. During the weeks of subsequent occupation of the presidents home (who is actually not in attendance) reveals an amazing assortment of human talen, emotion, character, and indivuality. With a somewhat predictable, but incredibly dramatic ending, it is without question, one of the highest recommendations that I can make for a great read.