She was raised to think for herself. Now, she's being told who to become.

Allison Maxwell has spent the last two years in Hamburg with her father, growing up in a world that values intellect and independence. But when a spike in global tensions forces her to return to Manhattan, she finds herself trapped in a version of home that no longer makes sense.

At Vanguard Preparatory Academy-a school reserved for the children of the powerful elite-boys are trained to lead, while girls are molded to submit. She's confused by lessons that feel like systemic indoctrination and disturbed by the trap masked by patriotism and prayer.

As Allison resists the rules shaping her future, she bonds with Michelle, a sharp-witted student who sees through Vanguard's polished façade. Together, they begin to question not just the school but the world that built it. And when family secrets come to light, Allison is forced to confront a chilling reality: the system isn't broken-it's working exactly as designed.

Set in 2042, A Ward of the State is a dark, psychological commentary on control, compliance, and the quiet rebellion of a girl who refuses to be reshaped. M.E. Wright deftly explores the interpersonal dynamics of family, agency, and inner resilience in this thought-provoking third novel in The Unborn Child Protection Act saga. Buy A Ward of the State to understand how the game is played today.