This is fantasy at its finest! All the elements of a classic fairy tale, yet it's all unique too.
The story begins with Sand awakening in an abandoned fireplace in a castle that has been sundered and long ago abandoned. As suggested in the title, the castle is surrounded by thorns that keep him captive. He slowly begins to mend the items within the castle, which begins to bring back life to this long dead scene. The magic begins to unfold as he befriends Merlin and a deceased princess.
This is a story to savor as the storyline unfolds in unexpected ways. I know I will reread this ending to explore the deeper meanings Haskell has woven into the magic. I look forward to exploring more by this author too.