Walk into a fairy tale world that’s not quite what you might expect. Lara’s life of lonely drudgery changes when she gains an unlikely friend and learns that acts of kindness can bring their own rewards. High-born Niamh knows the kennel boy is her soulmate, but when she seeks help from the Otherworld, her future takes a surprising turn. Bella runs away from home on a stormy night and finds shelter in a strange old house, where she meets a shy kitchen hand, his autocratic mother, and a mouse. Young soldier Katrin makes her weary way homeward after a terrible defeat. A chance encounter with an old woman plunges Katrin into an adventure involving dogs, treasure and a lost tinder box. These four tales celebrate courage and kindness. They are about being to true to yourself and recognising the good in others. Mother Thorn is for readers aged 12+. Adults who love fairy tales should also enjoy this book.