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Prior to reading this book I had no knowledge of this great composer or his music. If it were not for the previous good reviews of this book I would not have bothered buying a copy. I am so glad that I did, I just fell in love with this story, it was a captivating account! During the time I read this book I purchased about five CD's of Chopin's music. This is more a book of the man and his time in Paris than an in-depth account of his music, his style and his compositions. Regardless of that, you still come away after reading the book with a deeper understanding of Chopin's music and a great feeling towards the sound of his Nocturnes, Polonaises and Etudes. The author also provides a fascinating look at the society that surrounded Chopin while in Paris, so many great names come alive during this story that you come away amazed with the amount of talent that was moving in the same society and producing great books, music, art and events. This is a great story, the narrative moved you along with Chopin, during his periods of depression and illness to his highs and accounts of his compositions. My favourite is the story of Prelude No. 15 in D flat major, Opus 28, No.15 "Raindrop". I really don't think that anyone who has a love for music or Chopin would be disappointed in this book.