The Blackthorn Branch

The Blackthorn Branch is a thrilling middle grade fantasy rooted in Welsh mythology, perfect for readers aged 10-14. It follows Cassie as she ventures into Annwn, the underworld of the Fair Folk, to rescue her brother Byron, who has been tempted by these wild, non-human beings. The Fair Folk are restless and angry about human damage to the world, making Byron part of their plan. This story explores themes of sibling loyalty, bravery, and environmental responsibility, offering a suspenseful adventure with a strong female protagonist. Parents should be aware of some mild peril and eerie scenes involving the Fair Folk.

Cassie must rescue her brother from the Fair Folk, who dwell in the underworld of Annwn. But the task is no simple one . . . Cassie's older brother Byron has fallen in with the wrong crowd - it's soon clear these boys are wild, reckless and not human at all. They are tylwyth teg - Fair Folk, who tempt humans down into the dark places of the world. And Byron is tempted. When he goes missing, Cassie and her cousin, Siân, follow his trail to an old abandoned railway tunnel which goes down and down into Annwn, the underworld. Here they find that the tylwyth teg are restless - and angry. Their leader, Gwenhidw, wants to protect Annwn from the damage humans are doing to the world. Byron is part of her plan. But Cassie won't let her big brother be part of anyone's plan. Can she rescue her brother before it is too late?