Graduation Year

2025

Date of Submission

4-2026

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Literature

Reader 1

Literature Professor Nicholas Warner

Abstract

The Ballot is a political fantasy set in the nation of New Salisar, where five states— divided by history, violence, and ideology—teeter on the edge of collapse. In a rare act of unity, the states agree to a radical solution to choose their next leader, a high-stakes competition called the Ballot. Run by the leader of The Vultures, Lucius, the Ballot starts as a symbol of hope—until it turns deadly.

At the center of the story are two contenders: Leon, the original heir to the thron and Serafina, a bold girl from the so-called “rebel” state. The relationships between the six contenders in the Ballot are filled with secrets, alliances, and betrayal. As candidates clash in a series of challenges meant to test their ability to lead New Salisar, a darker plan unfolds beneath the surface. This story explores how real change in government often needs more than action— it needs a powerful story to carry it.

Comments

Thank you first and foremost to Professor Warner. He was never too busy to give me feedback, no matter how many times I sent him a chapter. I couldn’t have asked for a more thoughtful and thorough reader. Thank you to my friends for listening to my debates on where the plot should go. Thank you to my sister for reading the first page and then getting bored and giving up. Thank you to my other sister because she’ll be sad if I don’t mention her. Lastly, thank you to my parents for raising me to love reading books and writing. I couldn’t have done it without you all!

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