A Starweaver Academy Young Readers Adventure

When friendship is your greatest treasure and courage is your only compass

Perfect for readers ages 10-13 who love magical adventures, found family, and heroes who never give up on each other.

Millie Swiftwind thought running a secret smuggling operation at Starweaver Academy was risky enough. But when her cousin Joshua touches a cursed artifact and begins turning to stone, she discovers some risks are worth taking and some friends are worth saving at any cost.

Racing against time in a stolen academy ship, Millie and her crew of misfits must navigate treacherous waters, outwit corrupted bounty hunters, and find a legendary healing spring before Joshua is lost forever. Along the way, they'll uncover an ancient conspiracy, forge unbreakable bonds, and learn that the greatest magic isn't in artifacts or spells. It's in refusing to abandon the people you love.

Join the adventure that readers are calling "Harry Potter meets Pirates of the Caribbean":

★ "Swashbuckling fun with heart and humor that had my 11-year-old reading under the covers with a flashlight!"

★ "Finally found a book series my reluctant reader devoured in two days. The characters feel like real friends by the end."

★ "Perfect bridge between middle grade and YA. My teenager loved it as much as my tween."

What makes this adventure special:

• Diverse crew of characters each with unique talents and flaws
• Fast-paced nautical adventure with magical creatures and ancient mysteries
• Themes of loyalty, courage, and chosen family that resonate with young readers
• Accessible writing style perfect for building reading confidence
• Complete story that stands alone while connecting to a larger magical world

From the world of the bestselling Tidebreaker Chronicles 

...comes this thrilling prequel that proves heroes come in all ages and the best adventures begin when you're willing to break the rules for someone you care about.

Set sail for an unforgettable journey where friendship is the ultimate treasure and every choice could change everything.

Perfect for fans of: Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, Trenton Lee Stewart's Mysterious Benedict Society, and Jessica Day George's Dragon Slippers

Content note: Age-appropriate adventure with mild peril, positive themes, and no inappropriate content

Available in: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, and Audiobook formats

Ready to join Millie's crew? The adventure begins with a single page...

For Parents & Teachers

Safe for young readers, but engaging enough for teens and adults.

Reading Age: Best suited for ages 11–16 (middle grade into early YA).

Content Notes:

• Adventure and fantasy peril (storms, duels, shadow creatures)

• Themes of teamwork, courage, and resilience

• Light rivalries and mild language typical of teen banter

• No graphic violence, gore, or romance

Classroom & Group Uses:

• Encourages discussions on leadership, loyalty, and making choices under pressure

• Highlights teamwork and found-family dynamics

• Vocabulary and world-building spark creative writing exercises

• Cleanly written for independent reading or shared aloud