Marie Lu-The Kingdom of Back

Marie Lu's The Kingdom of Back reimagines the life of Maria Anna Mozart, better known as Nannerl, the forgotten elder sister of the legendary Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Born with an extraordinary gift for music herself, Nannerl longs for immortality and to be remembered as a composer, a dream that, in 18th-century Europe, is strictly forbidden to women. Despite her dazzling performances that captivate audiences, she knows her musical career is destined to end once she reaches a marriageable age, while her younger brother's genius only continues to grow, overshadowing her own.

As Nannerl's hopes dwindle, a mysterious figure from a fantastical land appears: Hyacinth, a princeling from the "Kingdom of Back," a magical realm that Nannerl and Wolfgang invented in their childhood. Hyacinth offers Nannerl an irresistible bargain: he can grant her wish to be remembered forever, but his aid comes with a price. Drawn into this otherworldly dimension, Nannerl finds herself on a perilous quest, facing dark magic and dangerous creatures, all while struggling with the escalating jealousy and complex love she holds for her burgeoning genius of a brother.

The Kingdom of Back blends historical fiction with dark fantasy, weaving a lyrical and poignant tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between siblings. Marie Lu delves into the societal constraints placed upon women in the Enlightenment era, exploring the heartbreaking reality of forgotten talents and the lengths one might go to leave a mark on history. The novel is a captivating exploration of the unsung heroes of the past and the profound cost of chasing an impossible dream.

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