Jude Thompson

The Sleighriders Jude Thompson

Petal, a fiery-natured elf girl is raised by St Nicholas and the elves. She begs to be allowed to work in the stables - traditionally an elf-guy's job, and they give in. Having bent tradition once she sets her sights on a far greater goal; to change the rule that only elf guys are allowed to be sleighriders on the Christmas delivery. When trolls return to the north and attack the castle the elves are forced to flee and start anew over the mountains. Then Urkha, a vicious and vengeful she-troll rises to power and swears to destroy Christmas. Petal is drawn to dark and steadfast Aleron, and the attraction is mutual. But their differing personalities cause bitter conflict. When the she-troll carries out a terrible attack on Christmas Eve and kidnaps Petal Aleron sets off to get her back. Then, in an ancient wizard's room in the bowels of the castle, the final confrontation takes place.