The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu
- The Wicked Reader
- Mar 2, 2020
- 2 min read

Author: Marie Lu
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Date: March 3, 2020
Pages: 336
Format: ARC
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Goodreads Synopsis:
Two siblings. Two brilliant talents. But only one Mozart. Born with a gift for music, Nannerl Mozart has just one wish—to be remembered forever. But even as she delights audiences with her masterful playing, she has little hope she'll ever become the acclaimed composer she longs to be. She is a young woman in 18th century Europe, and that means composing is forbidden to her. She will perform only until she reaches a marriageable age—her tyrannical father has made that much clear. And as Nannerl's hope grows dimmer with each passing year, the talents of her beloved younger brother, Wolfgang, only seem to shine brighter. His brilliance begins to eclipse her own, until one day a mysterious stranger from a magical land appears with an irresistible offer. He has the power to make her wish come true—but his help may cost her everything. In her first work of historical fiction, #1 New York Timesbestselling author Marie Lu spins a lush, lyrically-told story of music, magic, and the unbreakable bond between a brother and sister.
My Review:
*Thank you Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC of The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu for an honest review.*
I did not know I needed a book like this until it was all over.
Right from the start, I was captivated. The story takes place in the 18th century and follows the Mozart family as they tour Europe. It showcases the relationship between the two talented Mozart siblings, both child prodigies. Wolfgang and Nannerl Mozart were filled with life, passion, and desire, the only difference was their gender. The siblings' relationship was so heartwarming and relatable. The love they had for each other reminded me of the love I have for my siblings. We follow Nannerl who, sadly, has been forgotten in history. All she wanted was to play her music and to be remembered. Without teasing too much I will say we see little hints of an alluring magical world, The Kingdom of Back. Marie Lu ties this magical world with the story perfectly. She created a world that you and the siblings cannot get enough of.
The Kingdom of Back is unlike any book I've read to date. Lu does an excellent job bringing this story to life. It is exactly what I needed to read at this time, what a refresher!
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