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Ray Hobbs was born and raised in Yorkshire, England. He studied music in Huddersfield and London and has worked as a performer, teacher and arranger of music. The dance music of the thirties has been his lifelong passion. 'Second Wind' was his first novel. His second, 'Lovingly Restored' is now available as an e-book from most outlets. He now lives in Kent, SE England, with his wife Sheila and their two dogs.
Reviewed by Bil Howard for Readers' Favorite
Bringing back retro dance music from the 1930s was perhaps a greater challenge than Frank had intended to take on at first in Second Wind, by Ray Hobbs. TV and film composer Frank Morrison decides to bring a grey-haired set of master musicians back into their own after they have been excluded from a breakaway orchestra. At first the group is hesitant, but they soon catch on to the idea and before long they are in full swing and have become quite popular. Frank is working overtime to keep his own professional career on track. He is also involved in a complex romantic relationship with Sarah, an athletic and appealing Regional Produce Candidate who seems to be another exhaustive puzzle to piece together. Throughout it all, Frank continues to build up the band and prepares them for a recording contract. Their success depends upon him being able to hold it all together.
Second Wind is a romantic trip into the world of a writer, composer, and a group of musicians as Ray Hobbs chronicles the journey of a retro dance band and the romantic and often hectic life of their leader, composer Frank Morrison. This is an easy-flowing read with music and a little bit of romance mixed in. It is an honest look at the emotions and dedication of those who love music and follow through with their commitments and promises in spite of the challenges. You won’t find a lot of dramatic action, but you will find a pleasant journey like a stroll down a wooded path. Take your time, relax, and enjoy the trip through Second Wind.
