Nymphs are female—or so Birk’s mother has always insisted. But after a conversation with Lucas, Birk finally found the language to express their true they are non-binary, and at least one nymph isn’t female.
When Birk is unexpectedly outed, they’re cast out of the only family they’ve ever known. Alone in Ember, a town they’ve lived in but barely interacted with, Birk faces a world that suddenly feels much larger and far more intimidating.
Separated from their tree, which holds their soul, and with almost nothing to their name, Birk must learn how to survive. But in Ember, there might just be a new family waiting for them—one that accepts them for exactly who they are.
MJ James is a science-fiction and fantasy author for queer and neurodiverse readers. As an own-voice author for autistic, ADHD, non-binary, trans-masc, aromantic, and asexual representation, MJ writes for readers who want to see themselves on the page. MJ discovered a love of books at a young age, finding them a source of comfort and the one thing in the world that made sense. Diagnosed as autistic at 24, MJ embraced their journey of self-discovery, earning a BA in Psychology and an MS in Developmental Psychology. They are also a proud parent of three incredible children. Their work features autistic and trans characters who navigate extraordinary conflicts, from protecting their child from their own magical powers to conquering virtual worlds in the fight against injustice. With themes of found family, aromantic and asexual representation, and a focus on belonging, MJ hopes their stories can provide companionship for their readers along with a sense of validation, understanding, and being seen.
Everyone, if you haven't picked up this series, go do so. I've read the first three books between June and now. Now I just have the fourth, and gotta wait for the fifth when it comes out. If you want books that follow different characters in the same small town, set in Ember, Colorado. And the books/characters are all somewhere on the LGBT+ spectrum. The author is also part of the community.