Voices in a Mask

Green’s knowledge of and passion for all things operatic shines through this debut short story collection, based in part on “inspiring conversations” with a long list of artists (Placido Domingo and the late Luciano Pavarotti among them). The first narrator provides an “Overture,” addressing an audience as though onstage; though the point of view changes, the stiff language and frequent use of exclamation points are signs of things to come. The funny, lively title story follows opera buff Emilia Marty, who professes to be 395 years old. Based on a real onstage death at the Metropolitan Opera House, the somber “This Very Vivid Morn” uncovers the dark side of an otherwise typical rehearsal. In “Such Dear Ecstasy,” however, the plot follows Italian composer Vincenzo Bellini’s work so closely that it gives the effect of deeply researched nonfiction. Average readers may find it hard to relate to Green’s intricate stories, but if you are already steeped in the nuances of Giuseppe Verdi, Victor Hugo or Giacomo Puccini—to name a few—you will likely find yourself among eccentric, old-fashioned friends. (Sept.)