In The Reins ~ Carly Kade

"Cowboy McKennon Kelly was the last thing Devon Brooke wanted to focus on after finding herself suddenly single. Looking for a fresh start to life, city girl and journalist Devon just wanted to go back to her country roots and focus on building a relationship with her newly acquired equine partner, Faith. 

Devon finds companionship in handsome bull riding ranch hand JD and delicate Green Briar horse farm owner Sophia, both who advise Devon to keep her distance from McKennon and "mind her p's and q's" around the quiet and eerily peaceful stables. Devon thinks it shouldn't be too difficult to avoid the Adonis cowboy, but after noticing his skills and expert ways with training horses, she figures it couldn't hurt to get to know him a little bit ... right? 

Devon follows the guarded cowboy to a horse show, where she is unprepared to learn she may not be the cowgirl she thought she was. After a near-tragic incident, Devon begins to realize that the more time she spends with McKennon, the less she really knows about him (or horses, for that matter), and his mystery just keeps getting bigger. Who is he really, what is it that everyone doesn't want her to know, and why is this tight-shirted, spur-jingling, weather-eyed cowboy all she can think about now?" ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~  Spurs be jinglin' with this one! In this story, the main character, Devon, goes back to her horsie-roots after a bad breakup. She buys a horse she's in love with but not quite ready for -- which makes for some cringe-worthy situations and a few deep ego-bruises. But, it also made me root for Devon. I wanted to see her succeed, to learn, to grow. And through her experiences with her new horse, she learns more about herself - as a rider and as a person. 

I also greatly enjoyed the western world of this book. There aren't many western horse books on the market so I was excited to get lost in a world filled with two hunky cowboys, a sassy (but naive) cowgirl, boots, buckles, horse shows, country bars, and lots of flirting, banter, and swooning. And, I've actually never read a book that specifically revolved around western pleasure. I grew up showing this discipline so it was fun to read about those specific references ... Quarter Horse Congress even plays into this story! 

I'd suggest adding In the Reins to your beach bag or throwing it in your trailer to read and unwind after a long day at a horse show! I spent a few evenings on my deck, wrapped up in these characters, and sipping on a glass (or two) of wine. :)

Midnight Sky ~ Jan Ruth

"How can we harness the future if the past will not set us free? Opposites attract?: Laura Brown, interior designer and James Morgan-Jones, horse whisperer - and Midnight Sky, a beautiful but damaged steeplechaser. Laura seems to have it all, glamorous job, charming boyfriend. Her sister, Maggie, struggles with money, difficult children and an unresponsive husband. She envies her sister's life, but are things as idyllic as they seem? She might be a farmer's daughter but Laura is doing her best to deny her roots, even deny her true feelings. Until she meets James, but James is very married, and very much in love, to a wife who died two years ago. They both have issues to face from their past, but will it bring them together, or push them apart?" ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ I was in the middle of a flight and the middle of this book, welling up with tears and wiping my nose with my sleeve. I thought I was being discreet with my sappiness, but the woman next to me (who was also reading) noticed my sniffles and offered me her napkin. I then proceeded to gush over Midnight Sky while patting my eyes with a tiny cocktail napkin ... yes, it's that good! And, I'm certain the woman next to me purchased her own copy as soon as she got off the flight. 

This is my first Jan Ruth novel and I found myself engrossed in her writing and her characters. The majority of this story is set in the English countryside (at a stable) and many scenes involve horses, but you don't have to be a horse person to love this story. The true jewel of Ruth's story is the honesty in her writing. Her characters have true thoughts, feelings, and reactions -- even those that you are not "supposed" to have as a wife, a mother, or a sister. Her characters were flawed, yet beautiful and the honesty and hardships of relationships truly touched me. They resonated with me to the point of tears and the joy of laughter. 

Furthermore, I thoroughly enjoyed the dual point of view. Midnight Sky rotates from the point of view of two sisters: Laura & Maggie. This helps to reveal the full story and shines light on multiple women's issues: marriage, pregnancy, raising children, body image, x-wives, depression, insecurity, death, love. I mean, there isn't much that this story doesn't touch on! My only complaint is that the last chapter is a bit of a cliff hanger, but I guess that means I'll be reading the sequel (Palomino Sky)!

Some of my favorite lines from Midnight Sky: 

"The words had just fallen out of her mouth, glad to escape because they'd been there for such a long time."

"He followed her into the dining room and pushed the door closed. The muffled hum of laughter and music was still discernible from the sitting room, and Laura thought it somehow epitomized the last few months of her life, that feeling of being on the wrong side of a closed door."

"Outside, the horses moved like ghosts between the trees in the dark fields, and there was a pale moon in the sky."

"'Don't you think I know that?' he said, and the brooding anger in him took her right back almost to the first time they'd met, as if all the feelings in-between had been wiped out or never existed."

Ambition ~ Natalie Keller Reinert

"Jules Thornton didn’t come to Ocala to make friends. She came to make a name for herself. Young, determined, and tough as nails, she’s been swapping stable-work for saddle-time since she was a little kid - and it hasn’t always been a fun ride. Forever the struggling rider in a sport for the wealthy, all Jules has on her side is talent and ambition. She’s certain all she needs to succeed are good horses, but will the eventing world agree? 

On her own at last, Jules is positive she’s poised to become eventing’s newest star, but soon finds she’s making more enemies than friends in the close-knit equestrian community. Little mistakes cost big -- her students are losing faith in her; her owners are starting to pull their horses. And then there’s the small matter of Peter Morrison, the handsome, on-the-rise event rider who keeps showing up when she least expects him. 

Jules is convinced that all she needs is good horses -- not friends, not romance, not anyone’s nose in her business. But it’s just the beginning of the long, hot, Ocala summer, and as Jules tumbles through the highs and lows of a life with horses, she might find she’ll need help after all to weather the coming storm." ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ I 100% understand why Reinert titled this book "Ambition." I couldn't think of a better word to describe the main character, Jules, who is a broke, insanely-hard-working horse trainer trying to make her mark on the eventing industry. Jules drinks Diet Coke like a fiend, has a working student that doesn't respect her,  rides through lightning storms so she can get all her horses worked, and vows to never date a horse trainer because she's certain he'd just tell her how to ride her horses. Yet she's making it work. Well, kind of. Jules is hard-headed and set in her ways and sometimes I wanted to give her a little shake to let her know she was being an idiot, but I thoroughly enjoyed watching her story unfold (along with her antics). Actually, I loved watching her story unfold -- the good, the bad, and the ugly were highly entertaining.

Something that really surprised me about Ambition -- a major plot twist involves a hurricane and this was probably my favorite part of the story. Growing up in the Midwest and now living in the Northwest, I've never experienced a hurricane and, after reading Ambition, I hope I never have to. I cannot imagine the horrors of a hurricane as a horse owner, but Natalie does an amazing job of describing the preparations, the fears, the destruction, and the emotional rollercoaster before, during, and after the storm. I was choked up over and over, fearing for the characters (human & animal).

Furthermore, I thoroughly enjoyed the I-don't-want-to-like-him-but-I-really-do-like-him relationship between Jules and Peter and was delighted to have this weaved in as a major story line in the second half of the book. I was rooting for Peter all along. :)

By the end of the book, the stubborn Jules completely warmed my heart. She learned her lesson -- but you'll have to read the book to find out what that lesson is.

Looking forward to reading more of Natalie Keller Reinert’s books!

The Longest Ride ~ Nicolas Sparks

"Ira Levinson is in trouble. Ninety-one years old and stranded and injured after a car crash, he struggles to retain consciousness until a blurry image materializes beside him: his beloved wife Ruth, who passed away nine years ago. Urging him to hang on, she forces him to remain alert by recounting the stories of their lifetime together - how they met, the precious paintings they collected together, the dark days of WWII and its effect on them and their families. Ira knows that Ruth can't possibly be in the car with him, but he clings to her words and his memories, reliving the sorrows and everyday joys that defined their marriage.

A few miles away, at a local bull-riding event, a Wake Forest College senior's life is about to change. Recovering from a recent break-up, Sophia Danko meets a young cowboy named Luke, who bears little resemblance to the privileged frat boys she has encountered at school. Through Luke, Sophia is introduced to a world in which the stakes of survival and success, ruin and reward -- even life and death - loom large in everyday life. As she and Luke fall in love, Sophia finds herself imagining a future far removed from her plans -- a future that Luke has the power to rewrite . . . if the secret he's keeping doesn't destroy it first.

Ira and Ruth. Sophia and Luke. Two couples who have little in common, and who are separated by years and experience. Yet their lives will converge with unexpected poignancy, reminding us all that even the most difficult decisions can yield extraordinary journeys: beyond despair, beyond death, to the farthest reaches of the human heart." ~Amazon Description
 

Brittney Joy's Review ~ So, this is my very first Nicolas Sparks novel! I've seen quite a few of the movies based off of his books ... and loved them all! I mean, who didn't bawl watching The Notebook, Safe Haven, A Walk to Remember, etc, etc?! And, with every best-selling romance novel that Sparks pumps out (and then turns into a movie), I've always pondered "how the heck does he come up with that many great love stories?" And, I've always wondered how his stories read ... what makes them so great?

So, when I started seeing movie trailers for "The Longest Ride," I knew this HAD to be my first dive into a Sparks book. A cute cowboy, rodeos, and a love story? Ummm ... YES, PLEASE!! And, I wanted to read the book before I gathered up my girlfriends, popped a bottle of wine, and soaked in the movie itself. Cause the book is always better than the movie, right? Well, this movie has Clint Eastwood's son cast as Luke (the cowboy) ... so, this may be the first time the movie is better than the book ... we'll see. ;)

Anyhow, the plot of "The Longest Ride" really took me by surprise. I actually started the book without reading the synopsis (I had only watched the movie trailer) and I didn't realize there were two separate storylines - Luke & Sofia and Ira & Ruth. While the storylines eventually intertwine, this doesn't happen until much later in the book.

Initially, the story of Luke & Sofia grabbed me (the bull rider and the city girl) and I really only wanted to hear about their story. I wanted to follow them around as they rode horses, as Luke introduced Sofia to his ranch, as they played kissy-face and their relationship grew. However, the second plotline (the story of Ira & Ruth -  a 90 year old man who just sustained a car crash and talks to the ghost of his wife) really grabbed my heart strings in the second half of the book.

Overall, I was amazed at the way Sparks built his characters, introduced me to their pasts, and made me care about their relationships ... to the point that I was stifling tears and sniffles (multiple times) while finishing this book on an airplane. I'm sure the guy next to me thought I was a whack-job!

Sparks has a beautiful way with minimal description that sucked me right into every scene and every character ... making me feel cozy, warm, excited, and nervous ... all while yanking at my heart strings. I can see why his books are best-sellers ... and I'm looking forward to reading more of Spark's love stories!

And, now, I'm ready to rent the movie as soon as it comes out on DVD! 
 

P.S. -- I'm not sure about the movie (as I haven't seen it yet), but the book is a very clean, sweet romance. Clean enough for a teen to read. :)
 

The Eighty Dollar Champion ~ Elizabeth Letts

"Harry de Leyer first saw the horse he would name Snowman on a truck bound for the slaughterhouse. The recent Dutch immigrant recognized the spark in the eye of the beaten-up nag and bought him for eighty dollars. On Harry’s modest farm on Long Island, he ultimately taught Snowman how to fly. Here is the dramatic and inspiring rise to stardom of an unlikely duo. One show at a time, against extraordinary odds and some of the most expensive thoroughbreds alive, the pair climbed to the very top of the sport of show jumping. Their story captured the heart of Cold War–era America—a story of unstoppable hope, inconceivable dreams, and the chance to have it all. They were the longest of all longshots—and their win was the stuff of legends." ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ "The horse vans parked along Seventh Avenue came loaded up with dreams." The first line of The Eighty Dollar Champion gave me goose-bumps and it also did a great job of setting the story’s tone - that big dreams can come true, with hard work and a little good luck.

The Eighty Dollar Champion is a heartfelt story of two underdogs with an undeniable connection: Harry, the Dutch immigrant horse trainer struggling to make ends meat for his young family, and Snowman, the ex-plow horse headed for the slaughter house - before Harry laid eyes on him. Even through the open slots of the packed stock trailer, Harry recognized the horse’s kind eye and strong body and, when Harry brought Snowman home to his family, he hoped to nurse the gelding back to health and add him to his small string of lesson horses. Snowman was intended to teach small children how to ride (which he willingly did), but Harry had no idea of the impact "Snowy" would eventually have on him, his family, and even the hopes of the Nation.

This is a touching story, particularly because it is true. While sometimes the author went into too much detail on the history surrounding the story (I was much more interested in Snowman's story rather than the details of the industrial revolution), the core of the story touched my heart. Plus, a bonus of the book is that the author includes many black and white pictures of the real Snowman and Harry. All and all, a great read for any horse lover and I cannot wait for the movie to come out next year!

Cut & Run ~ Amy Elizabeth

"Raised in the crime-ridden neighborhood of South Boston, Rebecca Sheehan has learned the hard way that people can't be trusted. So when her unscrupulous boyfriend turns up without a pulse, she knows she needs to get out of Southie. Fast.

She seeks refuge in the last place anyone would think to look for her–the picturesque town of Jackson, Wyoming. The locals in this small community live by a different set of standards, as Rebecca discovers when she finds work on a horse ranch. For once in her life, she’s surrounded by genuine, respectable people–with one exception. Her arrogant new boss, Alec Westin, appears hell-bent on making her employment term as short as possible. With his self-righteous attitude, she’d gladly grant him his wish, if she wasn’t so desperate for the job–and if he wasn’t so easy on the eyes.

But after a chance encounter with his quadriplegic father, Rebecca learns the truth behind Alec’s callous façade. Suddenly he is no longer a tyrant, but a diligent man risking his entire livelihood to provide for his family. Moved by Alec's fortitude and his father's warmth, Rebecca finds herself increasingly drawn into their personal affairs–and to Alec. Just when she starts to lower her guard, however, she discovers that her past is catching up with her. A series of sinister threats confirms her greatest fear–she's being hunted. It's only a matter of time before her stalker finds her. And when he does, she’ll discover just how much her new friends are willing to risk–and sacrifice–to protect her."  ~GoodReads Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ There was so much I enjoyed about this book...the well-developed characters that pulled at my heart-strings, the beautifully described backdrop of a Wyoming ranch, a mystery that made me read so fast I could barely comprehend the words, and a simmering romance that I wasn't certain would end in a love story. I picked this book up because it involved horses, but it was so much more than a horse-story. The author swept me away with her story of Rebecca and of Alec- with how she unraveled their past, their mistakes, and their choices.

The only reason I put down this 337 page book was because I was forced to - forced to go to work, cook dinner, correspond with anyone or fall asleep. This book is now in my top-ten of all-time favorite reads. And, I read a sample of the sequel and I literally gasped. I can't even wait to continue on with Rebecca and Alec's story. Beautiful work, Amy Elizabeth!

Keeping the Peace (Aspen Valley Stables, book 1) ~ Hannah Hooton

"London waitress, Pippa Taylor has no interest in horses or country-living. But when she inherits Peace Offering, a hopeless racehorse, she embarks on a career change in order to see her late uncle’s wish to run him in the Grand National come true.

But having talked her way into a job as racing secretary to champion National Hunt trainer, Jack Carmichael and moved to the West Country, Pippa finds herself faced with more daunting obstacles than even the Grand National can throw at her.

Most take the form of Jack, her moody boss. Although easy on the eye, he's certainly not easy on the ear. And after a Christmas they would both rather forget, danger and deception threaten Pippa’s life in the country. As her time at Aspen Valley Racing Stables draws to its conclusion she discovers Peace Offering is not the only thing she  must fight to keep." ~Hannah Hooton's website

Brittney Joy's Review ~ Pippa, the London waitress turned (inherited) racehorse owner, quickly became one of my favorite protagonists! She's a cheery ray of sunshine who's not afraid to lay down a four letter word...when absolutely called for. Author Hannah Hooton created a character that I wanted to hang out with - Pippa (and her wonderfully naughty bestie Tash!) are my kind of girls. 

As the story played out, I found myself rooting for Pippa and her long-shot race horse, Peace Offering, to win the Grand National - a gritty British steeplechase that sounds scary as all heck! "Helping" Pippa along the way is Peace Offering's grouchy but attentive trainer, Jack. There were a few times I wanted to shake Jack to alert him of his unnecessary grouchiness, but the contrast between Pippa and Jack made for some great banter.

The only negative was that I wish there were more horse scenes and that Peace Offering was a bit more "fleshed out" as a character. However, the sequel (Giving Chase, Aspen Valley book 2) revolves around a new protagonist ... a female JOCKEY at Aspen Valley Stables! Book 2 is bound to have more horse scenes and I'm looking forward to reading it!

**Note: Contains a few mature scenes suited for those that consider themselves an "adult."

The Shadows Breathe ~ Kathleen Marentes

"Kara Springs has a knack for horse training and, at twenty years old, lands her dream job with the opportunity to train a magnificent horse that others couldn't. But when her beloved mentor suddenly leaves, and she confirms his replacement is abusing the horses in his care, her world takes a drastic turn.  When the abuse threatens to end the life of a beautiful mare, Kara steals her to save her. The result is an adventure that will test Kara's loyalty to the animals she loves, her courage in the face of danger, and her heart, when she must decide who it really belongs to."  ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ When you sit down to read "The Shadows Breathe," know that you are sitting down to consume a ten course meal – not a burger off the dollar menu! This 602-page novel is a full-on horse saga that begins with Kara, the main character, at the age of eight and her first introduction to horses. The story then follows Kara as she develops into a knowledgeable horsewomen willing to (literally) take battle to defend her beloved equine.

This story was obviously written by a rider as the details of the barn, horses, riding, and training techniques are realistic and highlight both the good...and the truly ugly of the horse show industry.  Thankfully, Kara represents the "good" and I immediately related to her strong love of horses as well as her gentle approach to training them. I thoroughly enjoyed following Kara through her adventures and my favorite scenes included tons of riding and action - which is basically the last half of this book! Great summer read!  

Dark Witch ~ Nora Roberts

"With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find both: a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends. Ireland. County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits. Iona arrives in Ireland with nothing but her Nan’s directions, an unfailingly optimistic attitude, and an innate talent with horses. Not far from the luxurious castle where she is spending a week, she finds her cousins, Branna and Connor O’Dwyer. And since family is family, they invite her into their home and their lives. When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horsemen, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package. Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive…"  ~Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ So, this is the actually the first Nora Roberts book I have read. "Dark Witch" is a combination of witches, magic & horses set in Ireland -- how could I resist?! And, look at the cover ... it just pulls you right into the cozy, mystical story. My favorite parts of this book included Nora's descriptions of the settings -- cozy pubs, roaring fireplaces, crumbling castles.

However, the story itself was very repetitive and, frankly, predictable. The characters were one-dimensional and I had a hard time connecting with them. Actually, I connected most with Branna - the darker, more cynical cousin. The main character, Iona, tended to annoy me with her constant babble.

Iona (a witch herself) is able to read the minds of horses AND she works at a stable in Ireland .... I was really looking forward to this aspect of the story - how magic & horses would intertwine. However, the story is pretty skimpy on the horse parts and is written more for the general public than a die-hard-horse-person ... I was disappointed.

I actually gave up on this book at about page 220. I just kept waiting for the story to get good and I couldn't wait any longer. Sigh ... maybe I missed out on the best part of the story in the last 100 pages?? Anyhow, I will definitely give Nora Roberts another try. I've read lots of good reviews on her books -- this one just wasn't for me.

The Dressage Chronicles: Book II - A Matter of Feel ~ Karen McGoldrick

"As it is with people, so it is with horses. There is what you see on the surface, and then there is what is churning below. Lizzy’s good work ethic, and a desire to learn, will take her only so far. To go beyond the books, beyond the riding lessons, she will need courage. Why? Wild Child. He is beauty coupled with power, but mean as a rattlesnake. He triggers reactions in everyone who sees him; envy; ambition; and fear. And he is her responsibility. But not her only challenge. Some rattlesnakes are two-legged. She will find some of her teachers in unlikely places she could never have imagined. She will develop that special quality known among horsemen as “feel.” So the journey of The Dressage Chronicles continues. Put on your helmet." -Amazon Description

Brittney Joy's Review ~ Indeed, put on your helmet for this ride! The second book in The Dressage Chronicles did not disappoint! Karen McGoldrick is a pro at wrapping the reader up in the world of horses. I thoroughly enjoyed following Lizzy through more equine adventures and I loved watching her grow as a horse-woman! The horse characters in this story (Book I and Book II) warm my heart and remind me of many horses that have touched my life. And, I even grew to love Wild Child - the naughty stallion!

I wish I could hang out with Deb, watch Marco work his magic, and slap Rider. Loved them all! I can't wait to read the third book in the series. Go Lizzy! :)

The Dressage Chronicles ~ Karen McGoldrick

"You know what happens to all those girls who are just crazy about horses? Once they discover boys, the horses are history. Or maybe not. For Lizzy, and others like her, no boy, no man who knows what's good for him, speaks the unspeakable. It's me or the horse. It's no contest. And so Lizzy snips the threads that hold her, however tenuously, to a conventional life, and begins her journey into the world of horse sports. She signs on as a working student for dressage superstar Margot Fanning, heading to south Florida with her six year old mare, for the the season. She immerses herself in an extraordinary world of high-dollar horses and ambitious women, and receives an incredible education in more than just riding dressage. And she's taking notes. Welcome to The Dressage Chronicles." ~Amazon Book Description

Brittney Joy's Review---  LOVED!!...Karen McGoldrick captures the "behind-the-scenes" stories of the horse show world in The Dressage Chronicles. From the first page I was wrapped up in the storyline and the characters -- my interest never faded through 405 pages! This is a wonderfully juicy soap opera for the horse-crazy reader! And, the descriptions of the horses, riding, and equine behavior is exactly on-spot...I even learned some new things about dressage! Kudos to McGoldrick!

I cannot wait to download the sequel!!

Wild Horse, Wild Ride ~ Documentary

If you haven't already seen this movie, run out and rent (or buy!) "Wild Horse, Wild Ride!" This beautiful documentary captures the deep, true bond that can be achieved between horse and human. From the first minute of this movie, I was engrossed in the multiple stories that unfolded-- making me cry tears of heartache and of joy.  

Wild Horse, Wild Ride -- makes it to the top of my favorite movie list...EVER!! LOVED!!!!   

Wild Horse, Wild Ride - Website/Trailer

"Each year, through the Extreme Mustang Makeover Challenge, 100 people across the country attempt to tame a wild mustang in 100 days. Following this dangerous and harrowing feat performed by everyday people from every walk of life, is a public showcase that determines whether these horses can be saved from a life in captivity. Complete with first-hand footage and interviews, Wild Horse Wild Ride provides an in-depth look at the incredible relationship that blossoms between man and animal." ~Amazon Description