A Ward of the State

The Unborn Child Protection Act, Book 3

De: M. E. Wright

Narrado por: Tara Kulkarni

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.

©2025 Michaela Wirtz (P)2025 Michaela Wirtz

A Chilling Future

I was as entertained by this story as I was with the first two books in the series. I felt for Allison Maxwell, not only because of all the changes in her life, but also because her parents were so wrapped up in their own lives that they stopped listening to what Allison was saying. This whole series provoked some in-depth thinking on my part, and it caused me to look around for some of the signs that this story indicated were happening in today's society. There were some elements which sent a chill up my back. I thought Tara Kulkarni's narration was good, and her pronunciation of the foreign words was amazing; however, I found it a little surprising that she mispronounced the word crepes. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.