First published 2003
Tilja lives in the Valley, a haven shielded from the brutal Empire by magical forest walls. She believes herself ordinary, without the magical gifts that protect her people. Then the ancient enchantments begin to weaken. The forest loses its strength. The Empire threatens to invade. Four companions must leave the Valley's safety and enter enemy territory. They seek the ropemaker, a legendary magician who might restore the failing magic. Tilja joins this desperate mission as the youngest member. She expects to contribute little to their survival. But as they travel deeper into the Empire's domain, dodging sorcerers and imperial forces, Tilja makes a startling discovery. Her lack of magical ability becomes her greatest asset. She alone can shield the group from detection by enemy wizards. The very ordinariness she thought made her weak proves to be their salvation. Tilja must embrace this unexpected role as protector while racing to find the ropemaker before the Valley falls.
Genres: fiction, adventure, fantasy, young-adult
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: Valley, Empire
384 pages · Paperback · Delacorte Books for Young Readers