Christian book reviews for parents

Back to results
Playing by heart cover
Teens · Ages 12–16

Playing by heart

by Carmela Martino

Age rating: Ages 12–16 · Teens

Age rating and Christian content guidance for parents.

First published 2017

In 18th-century Milan, Emilia Salvini struggles to balance her passion for composing music with societal expectations and her growing feelings for her music teacher.

Concern Level

8/ 100

Clean

Virtue Level

70/ 100

Shining

What is Dokilit?

Dokilit is an AI-powered content guide for Christian parents. We analyse books through the lens of faith and family, then show you the concerns, the virtues, and the conversation points that matter for your home.

Learn more about Dokilit

Things to consider

Sexual Content10

The romance is very chaste, focusing on emotional connection and a few innocent kisses.

Violence / Gore5

Physical violence is absent, though characters face the social pressures of their era.

Profanity / Language0

There is no modern profanity or vulgar language used in the story.

Blasphemy0

The text treats God and the Church with respect throughout the narrative.

Substance Use5

Wine is mentioned briefly in historical social contexts but never abused.

Suicide & Self-Harm0

There are no instances of self-harm or suicide content in the book.

Scary / Disturbing5

The story is gentle, with only mild tension regarding family expectations and future security.

Occult & Witchcraft0

There is no magic, witchcraft, or occult activity present.

Sexuality & Gender Themes0

The book contains no LGBTQ+ characters or themes.

Worldview & Spirituality5

The perspective is deeply rooted in a traditional Catholic and biblical framework.

Anti-God or Christian Portrayal0

The Church and religious life are portrayed with nuance and historical sincerity.

Virtues to celebrate

Courage & Sacrifice65

Emilia shows courage by staying true to her convictions and her musical calling despite pressure.

Faith & Hope75

Characters pray, seek God's will, and consider religious vocations as genuine life paths.

Love & Friendship80

The bond between sisters Emilia and Maria Gaetana is a central, supportive feature.

Forgiveness & Redemption60

Characters must navigate forgiving their father for his rigid control over their futures.

Buy on Amazon

We may earn a small commission from purchases — it never influences scores.

Comments

Sign in to leave a comment.

Loading comments…