I listened to this fictionalized account of Chess Records and blues music in Chicago. Famous musicians are woven into the story of Red Dupree and Leeba Groski as they face racism, discrimination and join in the civil rights movement. It was a fascinating look at the time. The narrator, Robin Miles, was excellent. TW for racial slurs and profanity ( )

DNF. I tried so hard to read this book but just couldn't get into it. I loved the idea though. ( )

He is an African-American guitar player from the Mississippi Delta. Looking for something more, he heads for Chicago. She is a white, Jewish, young woman who works at Chess Records in Chicago. This is a story of their love in segregated America, and a history of the greats that came and went at Chess Records during the Civil Rights era. Both of their families shun the lovebirds and they struggle to make it a go. It is an exciting time in history for some, a deadly time for others. My thanks to the author and the Penguin First to Read program for a complimentary copy. ( )

A good read that blends music history with the story of the early civil rights movement. Taking place primarily in Chicago, two of the central characters include a Jewish girl and a talented black musician from the south. When they fall in love and choose to marry, they face discrimination and the loss of important family ties. Excellent reading and highly recommended for historical fiction fans. ( )

Leeba lived in the Jewish section of Chicago, had an ear for music, and worked in a music store.

Outside the music store Leeba heard Red Dupree playing his guitar and became fascinated with him. Many musicians played on the streets of Chicago trying to be discovered, but Red was different, and Leeba couldn't stop thinking about him.

WINDY CITY BLUES is set in Chicago during the coming of the Blues Era.

I really have no knowledge of music, but Ms. Rosen's marvelous research definitely got me acquainted with the Blues Era and brought up some names I have heard of. I enjoyed learning how records were made and how the "sellers" of the records had to hand sell them at the beginning of this era.

​Following the characters through their days and music careers was very entertaining and interesting. WINDY CITY BLUES was a pleasurable read.​​

The characters were fun.

Leeba's mother was my favorite character because she ​was ​always trying to find a Jewish boy for Leeba. Leeba was sweet and talented. Leonard the owner of Chess Records was high energy.

WINDY CITY BLUES is a marvelous read and a treasure for music fans and historical fiction fans. The multiple love stories also add to the book's interest.​

WINDY CITY BLUES is a memorable read with characters that will be missed when you turn the last page. 4/5

This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest re​view. ( )