Woven

Nyle is a simple servant who is killed during a coup. However, instead of passing on, he becomes a ghost tethered to Princess Melisande. The two must work together, despite their different social standings, to uncover the truth about the magic known as the Weave and stop a villainous plot to seize the throne. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals directly with death and the afterlife, though through a high-fantasy, secular lens. The concept of being 'unwoven' is a metaphorical take on mortality and erasure. The resolution is hopeful but acknowledges that things cannot simply return to how they were before. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story begins with a sense of loss and confusion, building through a high-stakes adventure. The emotional weight remains consistent as Nyle grapples with his non-existence, but the bond between the protagonists creates an upward trajectory toward empowerment. IDEAL READER: A 13-year-old reader who enjoys high-stakes fantasy but is also starting to ask bigger questions about legacy and what it means to truly be seen by others. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might notice their child withdrawing or expressing feelings of being 'invisible' or misunderstood by peers. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware of the descriptive scenes regarding Nyle's death and the magical mechanics of the 'unweaving,' which can be intense for sensitive readers. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers (12) will focus on the cool factor of being a ghost and the adventure elements. Older readers (16) will pick up on the class dynamics, the weight of the political betrayal, and the existential dread of being forgotten. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many ghost stories that focus on horror, Woven uses the ghost trope as a vehicle for a high-fantasy quest, blending a unique magic system with a poignant exploration of identity.