If she succeeds, the life of her dreams is within reach. If she fails, she loses everything. Sixteen-year-old Mella's future among the aristocracy of her medieval city rests on a single test to produce a strong and beautiful animal familiar. However, when she fails to produce any creature at all, she loses everything in one crushing blow. But then she gets a second chance. Working with teenagers from the lowliest of places, Mella begins to learn that status isn't everything. With their help, she trains an impressive avian in the shadows and passes her off as her familiar. She's constantly terrified someone might realize the creature isn't what she seems. If they're caught, the avian's life will be forfeit and Mella will lose her new friends and the last hope of a future she has left. If you like cutthroat competitions, medieval settings, and found family, you'll love Whisper of Weapons!