The Kingdom of Back

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the most well-known composers of all time. His music can be found everywhere, as well as multiple biographies. What many people do not know is that Mozart had an older sister named Marianne, or Nannerl, who was just as talented as he was. This book is based in facts and explores the make believe Kingdom of Back, which the Mozart children created to keep themselves occupied on their long tours playing music for royalty and other elites. This book explores Marianne's possible aspirations as a musician and composer that she was denied because she was a girl, as well as her possible feelings of heartbreak and desperation as her brother eclipsed her and became increasingly famous. I absolutely loved this book and Marianne Mozart's little known story that I wish more people knew about. I was heartbroken for her as she was denied her most dear wishes and aspirations just because she was a woman. The writing was descriptive, realistic, and at times magical. I found myself utterly wrapped up in this world and entirely invested in the story emotionally. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves music, fantasy, and historical fiction. Marianne's story is inspiring for anyone who has a seemingly impossible dream. I wish her music was not lost to time and circumstances, and I dearly hope that she did indeed have a great impact on her brother's compositions as well as being his teacher. I am looking forward to reading Marie Lu's next book. She is an amazing author. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley's Bookish First program. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am already a huge fan of Marie Lu. I love her writing style--always so beautiful, yet crisp and clean in its execution--and her story ideas. However, this is the first I've read of hers that is not straight sci-fi/fantasy! The Kingdom of Back follows Nannerl Mozart and her brother, Wolfgang as they develop their musical talents. Although most know at least a part of Wolfgang's story, few have heard of Nannerl despite her impressiv talent, mostly due to the fact that she is female. This weighs on young Nannerl and she finds escape and hope in a different world in this portal fantasy lush with music and imagination, both described in incredibly beautiful detail. Nannerl is a sympathetic protagonist who stole my heart and had my compassion early on. She is very easy to root for with her many admirable AND flawed characteristics. My only complaint was that much of the story follows Nannerl as an 8-year old, which made it difficult for me to identify with her.

Marie Lu is best known in the young adult and dystopian fiction genres but wait till you read her newest book, A Kingdom of Back . A historical fiction fantasy story where she was able to demonstrate once again the greatest tool in her toolbox - her rich imagination. What I like about Marie Lu’s writing is how she can richly describe a character, a place, and a scene that every time I read her works, I feel like I get transported to it. It also has a smooth transition between two worlds - 18th century Europe and the magic land of the kingdom. Each character, both major and minor, has their own distinct personality which contributed to how the story came together till the end. Overall, it was a perfect blend of history and fantasy which made this book a 4-star read for me.