This book has all the ingredients of a great erotic novel in the flagellation (M/F and F/F) sub-division of the erotic genre. A vigorously dominant male, known as ‘The Maestro’, acquires two very musical young charges, a violin-playing girl and a piano-playing boy, for strict disciplinary training. His intention is to make money by selling them, when fully trained (sexually as well as musically), to the highest bidder. In this he is assisted by their aunt and her muscular lady friend, and also by his male and female servants. A virginal ‘old maid’ music teacher also plays a vital role as we observe the Maestro’s grip on his household become increasingly tight and severe. So there are plenty of characters available for the establishment of dominant/submission scenarios. And there are also some interesting intrigues and twists of plot, often relating to blood (and other) relationships between the characters. There are, of course, many scenes in which submission to chastisement is required by the many available females. However, the book seems to me somehow rather anaemic in the way it grasps (or fails to grasp) the full range of the lustful opportunities it creates. The way in which the motivation of the Maestro’s considerable effort and expense ultimately evaporates also characterises this half-heartedness. However, the book is entertaining, and mostly justifies the promise of its cover illustration. ( )