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Playing by Heart

By

Carmela Martino

STANDALONE

She could compose anything . . . except the life she wanted.

Emilia Salvini dreams of marrying a man who loves music as she does. But in 18th-century Milan, being the “second sister” means she’ll likely be sent to a convent instead. Ironically, Emilia’s pious older sister, Maria, would gladly become a nun. But Father won’t allow it—her brilliant language skills are too important to his quest for noble status. Emilia’s only hope is to prove her musical talents are as indispensable as her sister’s skills. First, though, Emilia must win over her music tutor, who disdains her simply for being a girl. Too late, Emilia realizes that her success could threaten not only her dreams but her sister’s very life. The novel is inspired by the lives of two extraordinary sisters who were far ahead of their time.

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ISBN

9780997173291

BOOK 1

9+

GRADE LEVEL:

"This well-researched novel will leave you feeling like you time-traveled to 18th century Italy, but Playing by Heart's story of young women trying to fulfill their potential and find their place in the world is timeless."

—Today's Catholic Homeschooling

FUN FACT

Playing by Heart was inspired by two amazing sisters who were far ahead of their time--mathematician Maria Gaetana Agnesi and composer Maria Teresa Agnesi.

"Overall, I highly recommend this book to young adults, especially ones who have a knowledge of Baroque Era music. It’s a heartwarming romance that will leave you breathless until the very end."

—Click HERE for the complete review at Catholic Reads!

Catholic Teen Books is a participant in Good News Book Shop affiliate program and earns from qualifying purchases.

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