Sunday, September 25, 2011

Ghetto Cowboy


G (Greg?) Neri has written a "feel good" story about a boy and a horse set in Philadelphia. The idea is based on true urban cowboy groups.

A Detroit troubled teenager named Cole is dropped off in Philly by his mother who is hoping that her estranged husband will be able to provide guidance. Cole had never met or heard about his father, and is not happy about the situation. So, the rebellious youth runs away at his first chance.

Then he meets the cowboys.

Cole has never seen a real horse so close, but despite his fear of the huge animals, he bonds with another outcast he names Boo.

He learns about horses and life lessons, and becomes closer to his dad along the way. When the ghetto stable is in danger of being closed by the city, Cole has a plan to save the horses, the "Cowboy Way."

I was drawn into the story immediately, and loved the characters the author created. The illustrator's artwork brings the words to life.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Antithesis by Allison Crews



If you love romance novels with a horsey setting, this one's for you!

Elliott is an avid horsewoman, who falls in love with the sport of foxhunting when she and a friend are invited to an Open Hunt. There, she meets a mysterious rider who she is drawn to, especially after she sees more of him at other hunts.

This tale has not only a detailed foxhunting setting, but also describes the sports of peasant hunting in Scotland and duck hunting. Education and interesting backgrounds round out the romantic scenes and character tension.

Visit the author's site at http://allisoncrewsbooks.com/

Her books are available in print and as e-books at Amazon.com.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Horse at the Corner Post




Horse at the Corner Post is a loving memoir by Denise Lee Branco. She tells the story of her and her Quarter Horse, Freedom.

Denise was there at the colt's birth on a spring day in 1976, hence his name, Freedom Sky, or just Freedom. Denise was a youngster and felt bad that the colt had no other foal to play and run with, so she created a game of "race" where she ran along the fence to his pasture, encouraging him to run with her.

As Freedom grew up, his coat turned roan. When he was of age, he was trained by a professional. Denise later enjoyed riding him, even entering him in a horse show where he won a second place ribbon.

But like many young horse lovers, soon other interests kept Denise from spending time with Freedom. He was sent to an uncle's farm where he was trained for rodeo work.

Denise's story about their separation and eventual reunion is a heartwarming story that will be enjoyed by all horse lovers.

Visit the author's site at: http://horseatthecornerpost.com/