I liked the premise of this book and get what it was trying to do, and while it certainly improved as the story went on, I found the beginning and foundation to be a bit shakey and therefore had a difficult time fully committing to the story. In this future in which so much has changed that people refer to Paris as an 'ancient city" that no longer exists, there are two countries in The Lands that are sworn enemies. One has embraced STEM totally and completely - it is run by logic and rationality, sort of Hunger Games District 13 meets The Giver. Its neighbor is the opposite - people still wear flannel and blue jeans and drink hot chocolate and the monarchy still supports the arts. The story at its core is simple - a princess from the land of STEM keeps getting messages leading her to believe her dead mother is still alive and being held prisoner in the land of arts and hot chocolate. She manages to sneak into the other country and manages to land an exclusive job in the palace in the King's 100, a group of 100 performers he sponsors for royal events (the 100 performers are either singers, drummers, or magicians - why this combo? No idea. Is he really into drumline?) I get what this book was trying to do and the writing was good, I just don't think it got there. It was a fine way to spend a few days, but I can't see my students being able to look past the plot holes.

I think this was a fun book with an overall fun concept. I enjoyed many moments and I think it certainly needs a sequel.

Um, this was the perfect book?? 5/5, would recommend to anyone! It's the perfect balance of efficient worldbuilding, beautiful storytelling, and character creation that rings so beautifully true. I am BEGGING for a sequel!