Award-winning novelist Rusty Blackwood has announced the release of the hardcover edition of her latest novel, Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster. The book is now available for purchase at Amazon via https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rusty-Blackwood/author/B0092XLBRM. This prequel to the multi-award-winning Autumn Trilogy delves into the equestrian world of professional racing, concealed secrets, and an unfaltering love, illustrating how determination and grit can transform uncertainty into triumph.
In a statement, Blackwood expressed her enthusiasm for the new format: "I am extremely pleased to offer, Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, in hardback edition. As the prequel to my multi-award-winning Autumn Trilogy of books that are each available in hardback, having Grandeur join that select group finishes the collection perfectly, especially for the consummate collector, as well as all readers who prefer this choice of format." The release of the hardcover edition is significant for collectors and fans who have followed the series, as it unifies the entire trilogy in a consistent, durable format.
Set in the village of South Wood Chester, Gloucestershire, England, the novel follows Cyril Landon, a deprived young Englishman born into poverty. Despite the bleak prospects of his surroundings, Cyril possesses determination, grit, and an endless drive to achieve a better station in life. A labourer's situation at a local farm provides him with a window into a possible future, and his choice to step through that opened door sets him on a path that will lead to unexpected places. The story explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the origins of a horsemaster, offering readers a deeper understanding of the character who later appears in The Perils of Autumn.
Critical reception has been positive. Richard Prause of Readers Favorite noted, "It doesn't depend on manufactured plot twists to drive the story. Instead, it focuses on the simple, powerful moments of a man earning the trust of a stallion. It's a perceptive exploration of ambition and loyalty, indeed. If you appreciate character-driven historical fiction, this novel is well worth your time." Another reviewer, Asher Syed, stated, "Overall, this will be a boon for readers who are already fans of the series, and a brilliant introduction to fans-in-waiting." Such praise underscores the novel's appeal to both existing followers and new readers.
Blackwood is also offering the book at no charge during this timeframe. "I am pleased to offer, Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, at no charge during this timeframe," she said. "Born into extreme poverty with little hope of survival, Cyril Landon's difficult beginnings throughout England's horrific war years, will better assist readers in understanding the difficult journey that precedes the grandeur awaiting them in The Perils of Autumn. For fans of Historical Fiction, this page-turner is a must read." This promotional offer makes the backstory accessible to a wider audience, potentially drawing more readers into the series.
The Autumn Trilogy has garnered significant acclaim. For The Perils Of Autumn, the first book in the series, Blackwood was named a finalist in the Fiction Romance category by the International Book Awards in 2019 and by the American Book Fest's 2019 awards program. The book also received a 5-star rating from Reader's Favorite. The series is known for its vivid portrayal of Thoroughbred racing and complex characters, and the prequel adds depth to the saga.
More information about Rusty Blackwood and her work is available at her website, http://www.rusty-blackwood.com.
