I have checked out and read many, many books from the library, and I must say this one was terrible. The author did not put much effort into developing the plot and the ending was unsatisfactory. If you want a good fantasy try reading one of Gail Carson Levine's books instead. One other author that would also recommend for fantasy is Liz Kepler.

The theme of Sleeping Beauty or Snow White influence the story. It's also a great story about forgiveness and redemption. Sand and Perotte learn that forgiveness is the only way to escape a wicked curse. Fantasy readers will love this book.

Merrie Haskell has created a sophisticated novel set in medieval times that is part fantasy, mystery and religious allegory. 13 year-old Sand wakes up one morning on a fireplace hearth in a castle that has been destroyed by the “Sundering”. He has no idea how he got there and is being held captive by the vicious thorns that surround the castle. Everything in the castle is broken, and there is no food. As he begins to mend, plant, and restore things to their rightful places, the castle begins to revive, a young girl and a falcon are brought back to life, and the mystery of how they all got there and how they will escape begins to reveal itself. Readers who enjoy fantasy fairy tales will like this one!

"Surrounded by a wall of razor-sharp thorns, the Sundered Castle is a cursed place in which every single object has been torn or broken. When apprentice blacksmith Sand finds himself trapped inside the castle, he discovers that he has the unusual power to mend its damage -- and that includes reviving Perotte, the long-dead princess who once lived there. Secrets, lies, revenge, and forgiveness all play a part in Sand and Perotte's journey towards escape, while authentic medieval details make their world come alive. If you enjoy the fairy tale-infused fantasies of Shannon Hale, don't miss this new book from the author of Handbook for Dragon Slayers." Kids' Books July 2014 newsletter http://www.libraryaware.com/996/NewsletterIssues/ViewIssue/21839b92-4eae-4123-8f25-b6fadc74aa87?postId=e9701543-3b33-48ca-a3ab-c7a4eb3a9766