The following are the reviews for Missionville on Amazon. All reviews are 5 star, unless otherwise noted.
In total, there are 66 reviews.
A Book I Didn’t Want to Put Down! RJ818
I was lucky enough to get a chance to read this book early, and it was fantastic! It gives you a different view into life at a race track, the good and the bad. It’s hard not to get attached to the characters and cheer for them to find the right paths. I cannot wait to read it again once my official copy comes tomorrow. Whether you are a fan of horse racing or not, this book is worth reading. I highly recommend it to everyone!
Magnificent Horse Racing Literary Ride Kristen Halverson
Magnificent Horse Racing Read! This is a thrilling equine literary ride! You will want to read over and over! I could not put it down.
Brown illustrates a clear view into the backside culture of the racing life through his extraordinary and descriptive narrative! You feel like you know the characters by the end of the book. I really enjoyed how Brown created a wonderful protagonist in this story. It teaches us all that we should always strive to do the right thing!
Fabulous work, Mr. Brown!
It’s not always the pretty pictures the casual fan sees on television of gleaming … Peggi Loveless
In Missionville, author Alex Brown brings an authentic voice to the backside of horse racing. Fans of Dick Francis will appreciate his attention to detail that adds so much to the story of a low-level racetrack and the good/evil stories that play out there on a daily basis. It’s not always the pretty pictures the casual fan sees on television of gleaming horses and flowers and nicely-dressed owners. Alex acknowledges that world but pays homage to the struggles of the little guys in the game that we seldom see. I’m a racing fan and I was captivated by his portrayals of the people and horses. A must read for all fans and those who only know the big names.
Got more out of this book than I expected. Robert C Taylor
As a lifelong fan of horse racing, I started ‘Missionville’ thinking I had a solid understanding of the sport. But after finishing this book I am walking away with a new perspective. When you watch a race from the grandstand, or on TV, you are only seeing what they want you to see. Apparently there is so much more behind the scenes. I understand that this is a work of fiction, but the author incorporates so many unfortunate realities that you end up with a bit of an informal education on the racing industry.
Easy to read, but weighty material. And I enjoyed the characters enough to be interested in a sequel.
a novel that shines a light on the sad realities of American horse racing
A novel about the lowest sort of American racetrack. The kind that feels like a third world country behind the scenes, with cheating as the standard of care, or as the author puts it,a place where “no one wants to care.” This is because the kinds of races and the quality of horses are such that the horsemen are barely surviving.The love of the routine training horses comes through in this novel about a trainer and a horse rescuer who team up to expose the ugly truth about Thoroughbreds going to horse slaughter.
This was a tough read for someone who has seen these realities in the sport. But whether you bet on horses (‘the sport of kings”) or like to play the games at the adjoining casinos (racinos) you should pick up this book to get a sense of the problems the industry faces.
The author is a real horsemen who bases this novel on his own research and experience. At times the events in the book too closely mirror reality or sound familiar to someone who has read the stories about broken down racehorses ending up in a slaughter auction or trainers and veterinarians caught administering performance enhancing drugs on raceday.
It should be required reading for anyone who attends races and supports horse racing.
Interesting read!! Job well done! John Myers
I really liked this book. It’s hard-hitting, controversial, and makes one think. Though it takes place at a fictional racetrack in PA, it could very well be any racetrack and is based on some unpleasant facts about the industry. Keep ’em coming, Alex Brown
One of the best books I have read about horse racing tlyn
If you only know the racetrack as the Kentucky Derby this is a must read. For horse people this is a book that takes you where you would rather not go. This is a book written as fiction, however, I had to keep reminding myself of that. The characters are so real that you immediately get caught up in their lives. I cannot recommend this book enough. The author is well know for his advocacy of horse welfare and Alex Browns’ many years working at the backside has come thru on paper in this so very real world of Missionville. Thanks for sharing the good and bad of horse racing. Waiting for the next book!!!
you don’t have to be a horse expert to enjoy the book
This book reminded me of some of the Dick Francis books that used to keep me reading chapter after chapter, unable to put them down even though I had a million other things I needed to be doing. During the first few chapters of Missionville, a strong foundation is laid for the rest of the book, with the pace accelerating as you read further and further into the book. Soon, you find yourself reading “just one more chapter” before stopping for the night. The book is focused on horse racing, and the author is obviously very knowledgeable about the topic. However, you don’t have to be a horse expert to enjoy the book, and the authors clear writing style makes it a fun read even if you aren’t in the industry.
Enjoyed the ride!!
In his first novel, Mr. Brown uses his extensive experience in horse racing to bring the fictional racetrack of Missionville to life. His vivid and detailed descriptions of the various aspects of racetrack life, both good and bad, makes the story compelling and interesting. It’s fast paced and the structure of the book made me anxious to continue to the next chapter to find out what happened next!
The book does not shy away from the “dark side” of horse racing and the terrible fate that awaits some horses at the end of their racing days, however, Mr. Brown’s passion for the safety and welfare of the horses is clearly evident throughout. Hopefully readers will be inspired to do what they can to support efforts to improve the sport of horse racing and ensure the safety of the equine athletes.
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable and informative read!
Fun read with a serious side Lisa Leach
Great read. Loved the description of the backside world, and the character development as his male lead comes to see and have to deal with racing’s “dirty little secret.” Great attention to detail, and an appreciation of good horsemen and the everyday guys in the sport who give their best. You can feel Alex’s love of horses and the sport and his desire, through his characters, to make it a better place for the racehorse.
both the good and the bad side of horse racing Jeanne Coleman
This book shows all, both the good and the bad side of horse racing, I was aware of some but the knowledge the the writer shares with you is unpleasant at times but what everyone should know about the backside of the tracks. I know it is controversial but this book really makes you think about what “people” get away with and the welfare of these amazing, trusting horses. Well written and fast moving you just can’t put it down. Thanks for sharing your knowledge of the industry.
Dont wait to order this one! fantastic Tanya Brinegar
What an awesome story! I absolutely loved this book(couldnt put it down) until i found out what happened!!! it is defineatly a story for everyone not just horsemen. I promise you ll like it!!! a must get!
It was a great read for me Nick Spagnola
It was a great read for me !! I’m not much into reading books, but I found myself not being able to put this one down . Would highly recommend it !
A+
A great read – engaging and truthful! EKT
I met Alex several years ago when he spoke at the funeral of a dear mutual friend. His eloquence struck me then, and I was happy to make his acquaintance. I heard great things about this book and was not disappointed. He portrays the good and bad sides of the racing industry at this level with honesty and a genuine understanding. The book manages to point out many of the issues that face horse racing and the horse industry as a whole with no sugarcoating of the big picture problems, while leaving the door open for hope and giving credit to the real life individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to improve both aftercare for our athletes and a standard of living for the people involved at the ground level caring for them. This is a great book for both industry insiders and people who just like horses or racing. It is factually accurate and realistic unlike many books with a “horse world” background whose authors last saw a horse at a childhood pony ride! The characters are engaging and well developed. Give it a try!!
Excellent book! Anna V Rolland
Very enjoyable read. This book tackles the difficult and cruel world of horse racing very well, and writes a great story of love and despair. Great progression and character development. I’m glad the story had a happy ending!
Alex Brown’s writing style is engaging J Patton
Trying to decide whether Missionville would be a good read or not? Read it. Written like a diary it integrates the complexities of horse racing. The story centers around the relationships between on and off track characters who lead us through the up and downside of horse and track management.
Alex Brown’s writing style is engaging telling the good and ugly story of a fictional Pennsylvania track.
Best Horse Racing Book Since “Seabiscuit” Stretch Reilly
“Missionville” is the best horse racing book since “Seabiscuit.” Brown, like Hillenbrand, understands the value of telling a horse story in such an authentic way that actual horse people will enjoy. It moves at a good pace and the characters feel real.
Excellent story of what it’s really like behind the scenes …
Excellent story of what it’s really like behind the scenes of horse racing. Well written and a compelling read. It gives a clear picture of a sport based on greed and winning at all costs. Heartbreaking and shameful that these beautiful horses are transported and slaughtered inhumanely on a regular basis.
A very good read. 4 stars. Alex Baldwin
Well researched, well written. A very good read.
Hidden Heart in Horse Racing. Kristen B.
For someone that enjoys horse racing but also has a huge heart for rescue this book was the perfect combination of everything sad and happy with horse racing.. From the first chapter I was drawn in with the sad reality of horse racing and wanted more. I don’t think I have felt more reality through a book and the horse racing industry then with Missionville.. A book with a huge heart, a great and powerful read!! Our horses in racing deserve more!!!
Loved the book and the first person narratives Theresa Ford
Written by someone who knows his subject and is passionate about racing, aftercare and slaughter!
There is a balance between good and evil in this book – showing that there are many good caring people in racing and those that see horses and people as commodities to be used for their own greedy purposes and then discarded.
The background story about 2 rising super- horses is very cool as are the references to Fair Hill, Elkton and Barbaro!
Bravo Alex!
Missionville Caroline
Not just another horse story! Alex Brown has successfully parlayed his extensive horse racing knowledge into a fast paced, impressive first novel. A well crafted tale of racetrack life, with the right blend of passion, treachery, and intrigue, makes Missionville a real page turner.
This is a well developed story that highlights both the good and bad in horse racing Amazon Customer
In Missionville, Alex Brown has given the reader an authentic view of life on the backside of a North American racetrack. This is a well developed story that highlights both the good and bad in horse racing, and shows that even the most well intentioned among us can easily stick our heads in the sand and not face up to the reality of what happens to so many horses after racing. Missionville shines a light on the side of racing that no one wants to acknowledge, while offering hope that things can change and the outcome for horses can be better. Brown has delivered his message in a fast paced story with well rounded characters and a suspenseful plot. I was eager to get to the end to see how it all turned out. Fans of Dick and Felix Francis will especially appreciate the attention to detail and the accurate depiction of a life working with horses. A perfect Christmas gift for all the fans of horses and racing on your list!
the good guys and girls that strive to succeed in a … David Rollinson
A story of success, failure and struggle set in the modern racing world, a world unknown to Dick Francis and most outsider’s. Missionville is very much about to day, the real world, the trials and tribulations of the little guys, the good guys and girls that strive to succeed in a complex environment while putting the horse first. An incite into the camaraderie that exists in the barn area at most race tracks. A great read for the aficionado and lay person alike coupled with a reality check. Hard to put down.
Fiction, but realistic Andrew Durnin
I was immediately interested in the story and understand racetrack life, so it was a very easy read for me although books are rare for me.
But some of the topics were not easy to read at all and as I’ve been lucky to be involved in the upper level of the sport, this made me think a lot more.
I would strongly recommend this book to anti horseracing people so that they … Amazon Customer
This was a very evenhanded treatment of a very misunderstood sport. It was with some tredidation that I ordered it, after reading The Lord of Misrule a few years back. That book was just too ” in your face” about what can happen when greed and corruption eclipse human and animal welfare. Missiinville neatly touches on those topics without the emotional gore. I would strongly recommend this book to anti horseracing people so that they may see the larger picture and forces at work on the backside. I really liked how the author put the spotlight on how the racing community has been very aggressive in rehabbing and rehoming its retired horses..because unbeknownst to the general public, this breed association has been on the forefront of saving its own for a very long time!
A clear and accurate portrayal of the smaller tracks. … Seattle
A clear and accurate portrayal of the smaller tracks. I was an owner, but the description of the backside is scary accurate.
several survivors of said sport reside behind our home and bring us great joy just being horses and friends R. T. Fitch
Missionville ~ A Mission I was reluctant to accept…
Missionville was an extremely difficult, initial read for me. Knowing all too well the underbelly of horse racing and seeing my own fair share of backside tracks and auctions I was not motivated to delve into this story of a ‘sport’ I have little taste for; several survivors of said sport reside behind our home and bring us great joy just being horses and friends.
But with a twist of the tale and turn of the word Alex Brown brings life, love and humanity to his story as he artfully supplies the reader with a most important compelling vision that we rarely see, and that shared gift is one of hope.
A true must read for those who have both saved horses from the kill pen and those who love to experience the vision of those great Thoroughbreds thundering down the track to yet another victory. Missionville truly has a soul.
Not a Dick Francis pot-boiler, but an engaging first novel that makes some serious points 4 stars Mandorichard
Alex Brown has written a very educational novel. He has a story to tell about one of the ugliest side of horse racing — the horse slaughter trade. But he was smart. He didn’t just outline the facts of this situation, as he has done in over venues. He tells a story about likable people in the US racing game who, through their experiences at the track, in the sheds, at the horse auctions, and even in the slaughter industry make his points very effectively. He tells a good story, too. The main and secondary characters are interesting people — not just one-sided stock characters. There’s good and bad in a most of the characters. The plot plods a bit at times, but overall the book works as an engaging story about interesting people. And, because the story and people are good, the reader will stick with the book and, therefore, learn about the things Alex and other concerned horsemen and horsewomen have seen in the underbelly of the American racing scene. An above average first novel that communicates its author’s ideas in an engaging fashion.
Good read, entertaining, educational story Wooley1
At first I wasn’t crazy about reading a book about the dark side of horse racing. I was afraid it would keep me up at night with ugly thoughts. I did give it a go and I don’t regret it. The author put together a story that educates as well as entertains the reader. The low end of racing is not glamorous like the Kentucky Derby but it does have its attractions to the people involved in it. This is shown by the author in his created characters. I like that the characters are believable which gives a sense of reality for this piece of fiction. Nobody is a good guy nor are they a bad guy. It’s just people making daily decisions based on their life circumstances.
It’s easy reading, a good story line and I will encourage many of my friends to read it to get a better understanding of racing when it’s not a triple crown race.
the way he let the reader learn about the sad situation facing a lot of race horses kept me … Annie Weeden
Alex’s book is a “page turner”. I looked forward to reading it each evening, The short chapters, the concise writing , the knowledge of the race track told in laymens terms , the way he let the reader learn about the sad situation facing a lot of race horses kept me reading. There is a romance mixed in that sparked curiosity to see how it would unfold, too.
A great read on its own Stacey Howlett
A great read on its own, but especially for those of us who love horses, horse racing, love and loss. A very enjoyable read.
Excellent read! I felt transported back to the Mid-Atlantic … CLW
Excellent read! I felt transported back to the Mid-Atlantic region where it was easy to become infatuated with Thoroughbred horses and the sport of racing. A very informative, simultaneously positive and dark journey into the world of horse racing from the perspective of those who are closest to it. Throughout the book, I am reminded of the things I like most about racing, specifically the horses, the thrill of cheering on your favorite, the beautiful farms and training centers I’ve had the pleasure of visiting, and the people I’ve met along the way who truly do right by their horses and are good to others both within and outside of their industry. Missionville also helps the reader appreciate and better understand the challenges the racing industry faces and the hardships experienced by trainers and backstretch workers all through a realistic lense.
The welfare of the horse must come first! Deborah Spector
I couldn’t put down ‘Missionville’. Author Alex Brown’s creative writing treatment of Thoroughbred racing couples the dark side of the racing industry with hope and improvements born through the awakening intervention of the book’s main characters. Missionville resonated with my personal experiences – good and bad, from the backstretch vets, trainers, and exercise riders I encounter in the world of hunter/jumpers. Brown reminds me that the welfare of the horse must come first. If you love horses you must have empathy, not only for your own, but all horses.
I read a lot and there’s not many books I … Susan Kenny
I read a lot and there’s not many books I don’t want to put down and can’t wait to pick up again. Alex put the points of the seedy side of horse racing across without putting the reader off with gory details and situations that make you dwell too much. The realism was there but was mentioned and moved on. It bluntly makes the point of how a lot of trainers have their hands tied in various situations, either with the race course itself or owners who treat their ownership of these horses as commodities rather than living, feeling beings.
Bravo Alex and can’t wait until your next one!
Awesome Book of the Realities of Thoroughbred Horse Racing Kathryn Defranc
Loved this story, a great mystery with well described characters that is a very real look at the backside of a racetrack. This is where all those involved in the daily care of the racehorses work, love and sleep. Obviously this author knows the track and I am delighted to read a great story about horseracing that reads the truth, you feel as if you are there.
Wonderful book for anyone who loves horses and mystery!
Alex Brown gives a great education on horseracing in America.
I have been looking forward to reading Alex Brown’s new book, and Missionville didn’t disappoint.
After Barbaro’s death I became aware of racing’s “dirty little secret”. Mr. Brown shows the up and down side of horse racing in America from personal experience. His characters draw the reader in and keep your attention throughout the story. Most of us only know the “sport of kings” from prime time broadcast. Alex shows us behind the scenes: the backside, the comradery and the hardships of everyday track people and the promise of better life on and off the track for these beautiful thoroughbreds.
As soon as I finished the book I was ready to read it again, which I am!
Missionville offers intrigue, danger and romance. Deborah Barnes
I love to read and my favorite books have a little intrigue, a little danger and a little romance. Missionville has all three! It flows well so it’s an easy read, I finished it in 24 hours. I’m from PA and have been to race tracks and auctions and involved in horse rescue so the subject hits close to home. Alex knows his subject intimately and offers us a glimpse into the dark side of racing and people. But he also offers us the saving grace of people who love horses and are willing to do the right thing at any cost. I highly recommend this book.
Five Stars Lynn Sullivan
I found Missionville to be realistic and entertaining..Thank you Alex Brown for the read!
A worthy read that entertains and educates about the racing world! emcallister
I have been following Alex Brown since his blog about Bárbaro. He wrote a wonderful book on Barbaro and that adventure. Now he has written this story in order to share his experience, post Barbaro, of trying to get horse slaughter banned here in the United States! With this educational and exciting story, Alex shows us all sides of the racing world, and shows how through it all there is good in the bad and bad in the good. The characters are interesting and real. The horses and their individual stories add even more depth to the story. To Alex these horses are more than just horses they are each individuals and he shows their importance as much as the human characters. This is what really drew me in, I wanted to see how the horses ended up. I loved the ending. It was real but it left room for hope that a racing world can be created where the animals are valued as true partners and cared for in the best way possible! Read it for pure enjoyment because it’s interesting and perhaps you will be moved to change things too!
Educate and motivate. Eleanor Moore
Alex Brown has written with care about the unsavory side of the horse racing industry that most in racing would prefer stay in the dark, and those on the outside may have no knowledge of; the slaughter of thoroughbreds for human consumption. Many thoroughbreds at racetracks in the United States are administered a variety of drugs that are prohibited for use in horses intended for human consumption thereby making this practice illegal.
His novel, the culmination of many years in the industry, affords an accurate picture of life on the racetrack. He creates believable characters that are easy to visualize, understand and even sympathize with. Ultimately the story is an uplifting tale of what can be achieved by those that love and have the courage to do what is right.
I highly recommend “Missionville” and hope, that as a result of being enlightened, readers will continue to educate themselves and be encouraged to do what is right for the thoroughbred.
Horse racing story written from the inside.
I have been in the race horse business for many years. It is rare to read a book about the business that is written by someone who really knows the ins and outs. I was astounded bu the accuracy and attention to detail. I am not usually a novel reader, but I finished this book in two days, as I couldn’t put it down. The writing style is elegant, with vivid descriptions and wonderful characters. The plots and subplots kept me wondering where we were going. There were great descriptions of the people who spend their lives and times, for little compensation, caring for the wonderful animals. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in horses, or just good writing.
There are good characters, bad characters Lauren G
As an avid horse racing fan and someone who runs a web based effort to help racehorses find new homes, Brown lays out a fair portrayal of life on the backside of a racetrack. There are good characters, bad characters, and well meaning characters. Brown has also done a lot of research to understand the mechanics and market structure of the horse slaughter trade and this comes through in the book and was informative to this reader. This book is a relevant point of view digestible through an entertaining story and I would highly recommend this book to any horse racing enthusiast.
Grab a Copy! Paige
I started Missionville and couldn’t put it down! It grabs your attention and keeps you drawn in from start to finish. I had worked on the backside of a racetrack half of my life and had left a couple of years ago. It was refreshing to read this book. Alex really captures the essence of racetrack life. I love the Barbaro references, as well. Missionville is a great read for racetrackers and non-racetrackers alike.
A Wild Ride G.C. Picchetti
Last year I gave away almost all my books and book cases to make my apartment more spacious. One of the few books that simply could not go is Greatness and Goodness: Barbaro and his legacy. I can’t part with it. Alex did so much research to tell the story. I love Barbaro so much I make donations to the New Bolton Center at Penn Vet.
So when Alex wrote Missionville, of course, I had to read it. The characters are wonderful. The nice people are just like our nicest horse friends we know. The mean people are really mean. I really love Thunder Clouds, Pink Slippers,Spicy Lemon, and Hairy the dog too!
At the end of the book Alex wrote two excellent sections called Resources and Racing Terminology. Alex always pays so much attention to detail. I never would have thought about including those things for people who have never been to a race track.
Will I keep this book along with the Barbaro book? No. My cousin Catherine passed away last year. She and her husband met at Arlington Race Track where they worked all their lives. I will send the book to her husband Joe. It’s up to us horse and animal lovers to stay together.
Five Stars Karen Bastin
Wonderful book!
Definitely worth reading NSW
Alex Brown is passionate about horses and their welfare. In the best way ever, he has addressed horse racing’s dirty little secret with a fictional behind the scenes novel on what is happening at many racetracks around the US. And he shows us what can be done. An engaging story, it is well worth the read!
Exposure into the real world of racing Alexa B
Missionville is a very well written book by a horseman that clearly knows what he’s talking about. So many people completely ignore the backsides of horse racing, and what truly goes on behind the scenes because they don’t want to believe its true or face the reality of these horse’s fates. Alex includes experiences in the novel that can only come from real-life exposure, confirming that what goes on is an evil reality. I believe that Missionville should be a required novel for anyone who believes in and supports the racing industry. What I liked most about the book was that Alex didn’t just include facts and list statistics, he turned it into a story that involves everyone who plays a role in the racing industry, the good and the bad, the minor and the major. As Alex says, “This is a work of fiction. The truth would be unbelievable.”
Very Good Read Lynda
I really enjoyed this book. It was realistic and had solid characters. I could envision these things really happening. I think anyone who likes racing would appreciate this book.
Entertaining view of a dark side of horse racing
Another gem from Alex Brown. Alex does a great job of presenting an entertaining view of a dark side of horse racing. He introduces you to the challenges that people “on the back side” face everyday and the decisions they confront to make ends meet. (This book is a primer if you are following the travesties of thoroughbreds being found in kill lots after racing recently at Delta Downs)
Four Stars Elizabeth T
Intriguing plot and good characters set in a well defined and described backside. Liked it a lot!!
“Missionville” is the next best thing to being on the backside at Santa Anita Edie Dickenson
“Missionville” is the next best thing to being on the backside at Santa Anita. This novel takes place at a fallen-on-hard times track in Pennsylvania. The author knows his stuff as he has been involved with horses for years. Most importantly, he makes the reader care about his characters, both human and horse and even his dog Hairy. This was one book that I did not want to end!
Excellent Read by Knowledgeable Author Nancy Forsyth
This captivating work of fiction is packed with all the facts and knowledge that the author, Alex Brown, successfully includes into an informative and page turning novel.
As an avid race fan/horsewoman/owner, the darker side of the racing business is displayed in a story that captivates from page one.
The author has many years of experience in this field, and alludes to occurrences/names that even the general public will find familiar.
It is a flowing novel that can’t be put down for those looking for a good read.
This publication was one of five Semi-Finalists Announced For 2017 Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award.The Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award is named for the man who launched it in 2006. Dr. Ryan was a globally-known businessman, sportsman, and philanthropist who loved horse racing and fine literature.
This work of fiction is impossible to put down. It has it all…… romance, intrigue, facts, and mystery highlighting human nature at it’s best….and worst.
Five Stars Julie
Yet another great read from Alex Brown.
DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Anne Landers
Incredibly written book about the backside of the racetrack. The narrative shows the struggles of trainers who honestly do right by the horse and leads the reader through an informative timeline of a horses’ career, from when it starts for it’s first time to the rehoming, auction or slaughter pipeline. The front side procedures are also addressed from track management, administration and the role of stewards and the racing commission. Excellent read and spot on honest information written with true to life characters. Did not disappoint!
I finished wishing there was more – always the sign of a great book. I also finished more informed and admiring … Clare Shearman
Whilst not a horsey person, I had read Brown’s other book Barbaro. This is a completely different book but masterful at shedding light on the dark side of the horsing industry. Thankfully there was a glossary of terms for the uninitiated which demystified the context of the book which then turned into a gripping read. I finished wishing there was more – always the sign of a great book. I also finished more informed and admiring of those who take a stand against bad practices within the industry. Thanks
Compelling read Ann Benney
A very enjoyable and compelling read. It brought the world of the American racetrack to life with the camaraderie between the story’s dedicated characters. The writing style was cleverly effective to keep the story moving and not bog it down with unnecessary detail. An accessible, absorbing and friendly book. Bring on the next one!
A very interesting insight into horse racing in America and … cook
A very interesting insight into horse racing in America and the lives of those who work with the horses. Well done.
Interesting, shocking and engrossing! Kate Hughes
At first I thought I was going to struggle to get my head around the racing terminology (wish I’d realised there was a cheat sheet at the back!) but before too long I knew enough to start enjoying the flow of the story. The repeated and regular routines of the main characters create vivid images of their lives and you want the good guys to win through! Highly recommended and I hope there’ll be a sequel because I feel like there’s more to tell.
A great read Clare Davison
Not as raunchy as Jilly Cooper or scary as Dick Francis but more real! A great read
Enjoyed every page! T Irving
Great book, interesting subject, lovely character development and this is from someone who knows nothing about the industry. Would definitely recommend to friends.
A great read. Thoroughly deserves 5 stars Springs
What am amazing book. You don’t have an understanding of horse racing or be a fan of the sport to get hooked onto this book. Its a real page turner and the reader finds themselves rooting for the good guys.
It also gave an insight into American horse racing which is very different from the British side.
Brilliant book highly recommend and next one please Mr Brown.
Great read. Sharon A.
Read this book while on holiday. Just loved it really well written and told a story many people won’t be aware of. Couldn’t put it down.
Superb Insight into racing with great characters E K H Tragett
A brilliant book, a great plot which gets you hooked fast, very knowledgeable of the racing industry. Highly recommend this as a great read
Exquisite Nadezda Dohnalova
It’s not just the trilling story most horse people will relate to. This book is like no other for its knowledge and details of racing in North America, running racetracks alone, and life of backstretch people. Should be translated to other languages.
A good balance between the good and evil on the racetrack … Wendy Cooper
Well written. A good balance between the good and evil on the racetrack both on the backside and front-side. Gives a snapshot of the lives of those who live and work on the back stretch and their love of their horses. Hope there is a next one.
Loved it! Chris
Great mix of fact and fiction.
Great book. A rare and accurate look into the world … Mike Mehak
Great book. A rare and accurate look into the world of racing. The author’s first hand experience in the industry offers a unique perspective. Great fun read.