Of Sorcery and Science

In a world divided by the technocratic city of Oriton and the mystical wilds of Arcanum, sixteen-year-olds Leo (a gear-head pilot) and Elara (a spell-weaver) are forced into an uneasy alliance. When a glitch-born corruption begins consuming both magic and circuitry, they must combine their incompatible skills to find the source. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals with systemic prejudice and the legacy of war. The approach is metaphorical, using the magic-vs-tech divide to mirror real-world polarization. The resolution is hopeful but realistic, acknowledging that one adventure doesn't erase generations of distrust. EMOTIONAL ARC: It begins with high tension and mutual dislike, building through a series of shared failures into a steady rhythm of mutual respect. The ending provides a cathartic sense of unity. IDEAL READER: A 14-year-old who feels like an outsider in their own social circle or a student who excels in both the arts and sciences and feels pressured to pick a lane. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might see their child being dismissive of others' viewpoints or witness a friendship end over a trivial 'tribal' disagreement. PARENT PREP: Read the mid-point climax where the protagonists argue about their parents' roles in the previous war; it provides a great opening for discussing how we inherit biases. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger teens will focus on the cool gadgets and spells, while older teens will grasp the nuanced commentary on how technology and tradition can coexist or clash. DIFFERENTIATOR: It avoids the cliché of one side being 'right.' Instead, it treats coding and spell-casting as equally valid systems of logic and creativity.