The Ember Beneath

By Heather Hale

When the ground beneath you begins to disappear, how do you find your footing?

Twelve-year-old Maren has lived in so many floating kingdoms that she's stopped expecting any of them to feel like home. But when the streets of Wrenfall turn transparent beneath her feet, she discovers a hidden world of ancient roots-and a fading red Ember that helps hold everything together.

Joined by Rook, an apprentice mapmaker hiding his fears behind jokes, and Bramble, a sharp-tongued woodland creature with twig antlers, Maren sets out to uncover what's weakening the island's foundations. Along the way, she discovers that courage can mean asking for help, friendship doesn't have to be earned by being useful, and even the strongest roots need care.

Inspired by the root chakra's themes of safety, grounding, and belonging, The Ember Beneath is an illustrated fantasy adventure for readers ages 9-12. With gentle humor, heartfelt friendships, and one full-color illustration per chapter, it invites readers into a world where finding a home leaves plenty of room to grow.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0HMMYV1ZT
• ISBN13: 9798161352137
• Release Date: October 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 86 Pages
• Weight: 0.38 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 6.0" x 9.0"