Ten inspiring stories from the frontline of parenting, including Sara Leonardi-McGrath

Stepmothers have a bad rap. Who gave Snow White the poisonous apple? Who enslaved Cinderella? Given that one in four Australian families are ‘blended’, it’s time to throw out the wicked stepmother image and give people a genuine account of what it’s like to walk in her shoes.

Stepmother Love tells the stories of ten women who have chosen to take on the challenge of making a positive contribution to the lives of their stepchildren. There are no white picket fences or rose-coloured glasses, but there are many enriching insights into these families’ journeys to find happiness. This groundbreaking book reveals how these women overcame grief, hostility and even disinterest to build loving, long-term, trusting relationships with their stepchildren.

There are millions of stepmothers working hard on their family relationships and Stepmother Love is an inspiring collection of stories that will uplift, help and support any woman who is doing the toughest parenting gig of all – as well as acknowledge their tough role and the courage it takes to make it work. Most importantly, Stepmother Love celebrates the commitment they show in the day-to-day care of stepchildren of all ages as an act of love.

Sally Collins is the proud stepmother of two wonderful young women and set up her popular website www.stepmotherlove.com to share stories, tips and support. She lives in Melbourne with her husband and their young children.