Book Reviews: Eclipsed by Shadow

Spring is here, the annual rebirth. Along with red-breasted robins and roadside daffodils, foals are sure signs of the new season: their tufted forms bouncing around their grazing mothers or laying flat in the grass in deep, unhorse-like slumber. I love foals. They make me laugh; cars don’t. The love of foals is apart–or ...

I didn’t write much online the past year. I got too involved in trying to save Suffolk Downs from needless closing and being another lost opportunity for equestrian activities in Boston. Right on the subway line it was. The problem for me wasn’t in knowing that the track’s ad dollars were cut so the owner ...

It’s been many seasons since posting. Not so long by some measures, but in social media terms it has been ages. Sometimes you need to resource your motivation and find the right stability for achieving goals. Regeneration is a hopeful project. I came to see horses differently after doing research for the books. There is ...

I spoke on a panel last month at the EQUUS Film Festival in NYC, with a welcoming group of dedicated and talented horse people. I wish to thank organizer, Lisa Diersen, and the positive and engaged folks putting on and attending the event. The EQUUS Film Festival is a new showcase for artists, and the ...

Into the Dark, Book #3 of the Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, won best Classic title in the Reader Views Literary Awards — the following is the award review: “A wonderful story for families to share” “Into the Dark” concludes the Legend of the Great Horse trilogy by John Royce. Time traveler Meagan finds herself ...

INTO THE DARK (Book 3 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy) has won the 2016 Reader Views Literary Award, for best Classic title!

The books of the trilogy are available in the UK through Amazon … if you are a reader in the UK, please consider leaving a short comment or review! Click the book images to visit each page on UK Amazon … THANK YOU!

I’m catching up with the final two books … here is an older review. Into the Dark was featured in the venerable Midwest Book Reviews in the June 2013 “Children’s Bookwatch”. It is a wonderful honor! MBR Children’s Bookwatch, The Fiction Shelf: INTO THE DARK The third and final novel of the award-winning Great Horse trilogy, Into ...

If you are one of the wonderful Canadian readers of The Legend of the Great Horse, please consider leaving a short comment or review on Amazon.ca or another domestic bookseller. Click the book images to visit each page … THANK YOU! The only way to share independent books is through readers! By the way… The books of The Legend ...

The following review of The Golden Spark was given by reviewer Don Sloan, a retired journalist turned full-time Indie book reviewer who posted on the site justfreeandbargainbooks. (not a paid review!) The review is written in narrative “genre-based” format, which offers a unique summary of the story while engaging the reader. Book review space has been ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy will be officially “rolled out” globally over the next weeks and into 2016 …

The opening book of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, Eclipsed by Shadow, won Gold in the 2010 Mom’s Choice Awards for best family-friendly Young Adult Fiction. The Mom’s Choice Awards® evaluates products and services created for children, families and educators. The program is globally recognized for establishing the benchmark of excellence in family-friendly media, ...

The Legend of the Great Horse will be hosting weekly giveaways through November 2015! Here is the planned schedule … Book I: ECLIPSED BY SHADOW Orig Paperbacks @ LibraryThing   10/25/2015 – 11/01/2015 (Live) Ebooks @ LibraryThing   11/01/15 – 11/07/15 Orig Paperbacks @ Goodreads   11/02/2015 – 11/13/2015 Book II: THE GOLDEN SPARK Ebooks @ LibraryThing     11/02/2015 ...

The first book of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, ECLIPSED BY SHADOW, won the 2009 Eric Hoffer Book Award for best Young Adult Fiction. The Eric Hoffer Book Award was founded with permission from the Eric Hoffer Estate, “to honor freethinking writers and independent books of exceptional merit.” Personally, my excitement and respect for the ...

The book will be shipped to each prospective reviewer free of charge, USA only please. Participants are asked to give their honest reader feedback on an online booksite. It would be great to have your review comment by the end of November, unless you aren’t happy with the story in which case it is fine to ...

The Golden Spark won … ! The book was chosen as a ‘Perfect Pitch Pick’ by Underground Book Reviews and voted to victory by supporters on Facebook! AWESOME Underground Book Reviews sent the following announcement, and The Golden Spark was featured on the online magazine’s front page Wednesday (10/14): Congratulations! The Golden Spark was selected as this week’s ...

The Golden Spark was honored by Underground Book Reviews as a “Pitch Perfect Pick” … Winner of most votes (FB likes) is featured on the site … vote on Facebook this week if you have the chance!

The Golden Spark has been selected as a “Pitch Perfect Pick” by Underground Book Reviews! This is a special independent honor for The Golden Spark … “Underground Book Reviews is an online magazine that puts a spotlight on the emerging world of independent, e-publishing and self-publishing.” Here is the notice I received: The Golden Spark was ...

In 2009, Eclipsed by Shadow won the Reader Views Literary Awards. This was the first honor for the trilogy (and also the first writing award for John Royce)! I am very grateful for Reader Views and its founder, the late Irene Watson. The group not only created an accessible and honorable independent awards, it helped ...

We live in a strange new era during which authors are being required to ‘market’ their own work … though no one actually WANTS authors to market to them, and every book venue expressly forbids it. This market-driven change not a good thing, but there is no choice. Help from readers is most important now … ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy has been invited to take part in the 2015 EQUUS Film Festival! Founded and directed by Lisa Diersen, the Festival is an annual showcase of film and other equestrian-themed artwork. I’m excited to announce the Legend of the Great Horse trilogy will take part this year … the event ...

A new page has been created to display all the bookcover artwork! The artwork series offers a journey through history. Marti Adrian Gregory is the trilogy’s artist and creator of all the original historical figures from the story … each of the Great Horses can be seen together, now that the work is complete.

To support the launch of the finished book covers by Marti Adrian this fall, there is supposed to be ‘marketing’ going on. That hardly makes sense because it’s my book. Instead I’d like to refresh the trilogy’s awards … something I’ve wanted to do because they were rushed together at the time. The first award ...

The site update is bringing up old series and posts … and the book excerpts page is finished! Check out the new Excerpts page!

Hopefully nothing was disturbed … TheGreatHorse.com website was recently updated to deliver a better user experience on mobile devices. Some site functionality had to be scrapped, and the change process is somewhat ongoing. Thank you in advance for your patience with any areas that haven’t yet been completed! Please contact us with questions or comments.

“Henryk looked up with a new light in his eyes. Meagan softened. Perhaps, she thought charitably, the horse’s lop ears did not hang out of laziness. Perhaps the white blaze across his forehead made him look simpler than he really was.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ ...

Panic began pooling in Meagan’s chest. If these people were not going to surrender, she had to escape. A thought came to her … if she could only get close enough to Targa. “I don’t know about the Tatar men,” she answered innocently. “But their horses have a weak spot. I could show you. Take ...

Horn answered horn throughout the camps. A rippling change went through the horse nation. The few not yet mounted swung aboard. Meagan’s group moved out. The camp leaders rode ahead, each holding a blazing torch. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Horace rubbed his face and looked at the morning sky. His profile was clean and unblemished. With quiet conviction he recited, “And yet more bright shines out the Julian star, as moon outglows each lesser light…” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

There was everywhere and nowhere to run. People scattered before the galloping horses and their bristling chariots of bronze. Meagan leapt out of the path of an oncoming team. Hooves pounded across her footprints. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Meagan expected the horses to whirl away, erupting in stampede. She scrambled to avoid being trampled and was stopped by a wall of packed earth. But no horse wheeled and ran, no horse gave alarm. All stood in rigid silence, immobile, and she did the same. – Eclipsed by Shadow excerpt

The herd’s stallion trotted fretfully around the edges of his band. A stallion may choose his group but he is not the boss. Equine society is based on friendships and roles—the stallion was waiting for the group’s leader to make a decision, and he wished she would hurry. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

‘The elderly woman’s smile mapped lines across her pale features. Her silver hair was pulled back to reveal a strand of white pearls looped over a simple charcoal dress. “I am Mrs. Bridgestone, and you must be Jennifer. It is so good of you to come.” The woman smiled knowingly at Meagan. “I believe your ...

“Horses had been Meagan’s life since she had first been lifted onto Moose’s broad back. Her books were horse books; her toys, horse toys. Riding lessons and a pony were all Meagan wished for on birthdays and Christmases. Every conversation included horses.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great ...

Thank you for your interest in The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy! Readers’ Update 10/25/16: This offer was my answer to reader requests for an ebook version of the series’ conclusion. I created a ‘home-made’ ebook for interested readers, since the scale of piracy of the first two book ebook versions eliminated both the ...

The summer solstice is an important day in the Great Horse trilogy. Promise was born that day of our new millennium. The first book was published on that date. Today I’m declaring independence from the tyranny of the free market, as did ancestors I’m actually proud of. A Grievous State of Affairs Authors are suddenly ...

I plan to make an announcement about The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy during the upcoming Summer Solstice on June 21, 2015. It is a declaration of sorts, a surprise. I began ‘marketing’ the full trilogy a few weeks ago. This may not be obvious since I haven’t actually done anything … but the summer ...

I have the idea that going along quietly might not be the point of writing … One of the fruits our society’s exertions for the market* is the forcing of authors to ‘market their own work.’ This somehow exists as a legitimate reality at this time. New writing is an imposition–it must be judged by others. ...

It’s an uncertain time, book-wise. I had to stop efforts to ‘market my own books’ to finish building all the marketing platforms and finish the trilogy. I also needed to make peace with being forced to commit cultural sin and ‘market my own books.’ Which is cultural sin, of course … this is made evident ...

The Legend of the Great Horse is a historical fiction account of a young horsewoman’s adventure through history … publishing the story has been an interesting journey of its own. In 2008 the trilogy opened with a close. Its small press publisher went out of business as the (ongoing) financial crisis was initiated–since that time ...

The past few posts have outlined ideas about fostering a broader grassroots to engage the public … I’m working on a dedicated site, and will share any developments… One of any sport’s best tools for crafting a public connection and igniting interest is to have a national competitive structure that makes sense and is both ...

As the grassroots offers an enjoyable horse experience along with fair and education-based competition, it finds success and helps preserve the connection between horses and humans. There is a lot of good horse news today, including things we didn’t know until recently. For example, we know there is continuing interest in horses. We know that organizations ...

Horses have been associated with elite establishment since civilization began. Chariot empires held rumbling sway for the (dusty) 1st half of human society; cavalry and kings continued the association. The tradition still echoes. As an equestrian sport, Show Jumping shares in the image–and baggage–of that tradition. In its short history, the sport has provided popular occasions ...

100 years ago, it was easy to get horse experience. Horses delivered the mail, took the family to church, carried you to battle and helped on the farm … horses were everywhere. Horses entertained you too: variety-based horse shows dealt with highly-skilled horsemanship, providing competition that delivered standards to achieve. Today’s official equestrian competitions developed ...

This is a rather random post. The subject has been on my mind, and this is a serious treatment. It doesn’t pertain directly to the Great Horse trilogy, but it is related, because the energy that led to writing was partly inspired by wonderful equestrian events like the American Invitational, which was cancelled this month–it ...

I was nervous about ‘Eclipsed by Shadow’ when it was first published … In 2002, years before actual publication–after receiving permission!–I sent out a mailing to top equestrians in America. I had a draft of the trilogy written, but there was a LOT of research to be done: I wanted to see if the story ...

I’m sharing some experiences in publishing. For a reason I wish didn’t happen, I find myself on the front lines of publishing’s upheavals. Being published by a Big House is an author’s basic goal. That was my goal too. It’s probably common knowledge that traditional publishing has been subsumed and relegated to a balance sheet entry in ...

The trouble with ebooks is (1) piracy and (2) its flood of poor titles … and the problems they cause for some authors. For example, when I published the ebook version of book 1, and again with book 2, my royalties were cut by about 2/3rds. From modest to negligible, basically. Here are a few recent ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is an adventure through history. The Golden Spark (Book #2) won the 2011 Written Arts Awards for best Science Fiction/Fantasy. The year is 1816 and Meagan has found an obstacle she can’t jump… But I freely admit that the best of my fun I owe it to horse and hound. —George ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is an adventure through history. The Golden Spark (Book #2) won the 2011 Written Arts Awards for best Science Fiction/Fantasy. Meagan was enjoying the formal 17th century social outing when she was abruptly whisked to an English farm of 1820. Time travel can be tricky. The young man dealt the ...

It’s Out Today! The striking new artwork by Marti Adrian Gregory is featured on a new bookcover for The Golden Spark, the 2nd book of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy.

Author Note: This is one of my favorite Great Horses, Dover Beach (“Beecher”) … the horse that did anything you asked. Maybe because equine generosity is the sacred truth at the center of true horsemanship, or maybe I’m reminded that some of the greatest horses live in memory alone now. Yet how joyfully alive when ...

“Noah and Moses” …. 1820’s English farm team at a Horse Pull, by artist Marti Adrian Gregory for “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. The Canadian artist has illustrated each era in Meagan’s journey, researching the different periods to ensure historical accuracy. You can see more artwork by Marti Adrian Gregory on her own website: ...

The last new illustrations by Marti Adrian Gregory will be released this week in the New Year’s countdown of the Chinese Year of the Horse. The popular Canadian artist has created a new bookcover with new illustrations for The Golden Spark (Book 2). The new cover is the second of a new ‘box set’ design for the ...

Gypsy gold does not chink and glitter. It gleams in the sun and neighs in the dark. —Gypsy proverb The meal was of well-roasted bird and acorns, garnished with greens. For a long time afterward Meagan stared into the dancing flames that brought warmth, food and security. Early dusk had fallen, and light raindrops were still tapping softly ...

Come join other fans for a journey through history on the Legend of the Great Horse trilogy’s Facebook Page !  

This excerpt is from The Golden Spark, Book #2 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, an adventure through history―on horseback. The year is 1666 and Meagan is watching a riding demonstration of her rescued horse, Nero, at the Court of Versailles. “They say princes learn no art truly, but the art of horsemanship. The reason is, ...

The historic Suffolk Downs race track has announced it will no longer hold live racing, due to not getting a casino license. It seems the current gambling model has no future as manager/caretaker of American racing, but Suffolk Downs itself has great potential if it will focus on what it’s truly about … horses. Suffolk Downs ...

“Surging, the music rose and Nero gathered himself and … exploded into the air! Aloft in a mercurial arc, the horse struck backward with both feet as if to kick himself asunder. He pulled the earth under his hooves and rose again, ripping the air behind him in a display of disciplined power…” The premier of ...

“For riding out in the field, Meagan’s favorite mount was a smoke-colored dun gelding she called Shorty, for the obvious reason. The horse’s stubby legs and thick neck allowed only so much of the flexibility needed in dressage. Though he ambled around the sand arena gamely, Shorty only came into his own when galloping across ...

“Chouchou started down the Lane with promising speed, but when he scented the carefully laid turf—obviously a thoughtful buffet—he stopped and dropped his head.” Marti Adrian Gregory‘s miniature of the 13th-century knight Henryk and his trusty steed, Chou Chou, is a humorous rendition of what Meagan calls the “dynamic duo.” Chou Chou means ‘teacher’s pet’ in French, ...

“Her grandfather had a saying: sometimes you can trust a horse and sometimes you can’t— and sometimes you have to.” The 4th Great Horse Meagan meets in history is a no-nonsense Mongolian warpony she dubs ‘Targa’ … the two bond together in an era when a good horse could make the difference between life and ...

“An eruption of applause broke the spell, swelling as the Imperial team galloped onto the arena floor.” This striking and highly-detailed miniature artwork by Marti Adrian Gregory shows the personality of each chariot horse from the story! The 3rd Great Horse in history is part of the Emperor’s Quadriga (4-horse chariot). The team is intentionally made ...

The 2nd historic Great Horse wore a headdress according to Scythian custom, but Meagan (and readers) never know him: the animal was sacrificed with a tombful of horses and human attendants to be an escort for a Scythian chieftain in the after-world.

The first historic Great Horse from the trilogy is a gentle prehistoric mare. At first, Meagan doesn’t know she is dealing with a ‘cave’ horse–equine nature has not changed in many thousands of millennia. It is humans who have changed.

The unusual thing about the first Great Horse Meagan meets in history is that it isn’t unusual at all. Meagan doesn’t realize at first that she has traveled time or that she is dealing with a prehistoric herd of horses. Humans could have tamed horses tens of thousands of years earlier than actually occurred, because ...

Promise had grown into glossy youth and looked every inch a thoroughbred. Her slender neck swiveled as she eyed the crowd, velvet nostrils flared. The air around the delicate filly seemed to quiver.―Eclipsed by Shadow Canadian artist Marti Adrian is soon to complete the Great Horse series with the horses from The Golden Spark! The popular equine ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy was inspired by man’s partnership with horses … the following is a response to an exceptional challenge to the horse’s place in society today. Introduction The NYC carriage horse situation has given me the idea to ask the horse welfare activists to help with a project for the future of ...

This excerpt is from Eclipsed by Shadow, Book #1 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, an adventure through history―on horseback. The scene is set in 1240, Eastern Europe, when Meagan first discovers she is riding with the Mongolian army of Genghis Khan. “The great art of riding,” the Knight began in a loud voice, waving his ...

Galloping into view … the paperback version of Into the Dark, book #3 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is officially being published December 3rd! FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robert Hall R_Hall@MicronPress.com Into the Dark, Book III of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy by Award-Winning Author John Royce Releases December 3rd LOST IN HISTORY: Equestrian ...

The final volume of the award-winning trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse, is being released in paperback on December 3, 2013. Into the Dark brings the historical adventure to triumphant conclusion as hoofbeats thunder into the modern age. The new paperback version is a revised 2nd edition. The book will be available through bookstores and major ...

This excerpt is from Eclipsed by Shadow, Book #1 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, an adventure through history―on horseback. The scene is set in 1240, Eastern Europe, when Meagan first discovers she is riding with the Mongolian army of Genghis Khan. Hast thou given the horse strength? Hast thou clothed his neck with thunder? – Holy ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is an adventure through history―on horseback. Into the Dark (Book #3) was named to the Midwest Book Review Bookwatch and listed as a Highlighted Title by the Independent Book Publishers Associate (IBPA). In this excerpt, Meagan finds herself on a World War II battlefield during an attack… Thou shalt be ...

I’m beginning an informal series on the benefits of horses to humans … Horse Owner Today magazine has posted the 1st one! Excerpt Watching Horses is part of being Human To say mankind evolved watching horses is simply reporting evidence. Incredibly, the sight of horses is older to humanity than the use of fire … or even tools. ...

My Library at LibraryThing Learning about history doesn’t require classroom time or tedious study. Knowledge and enthusiasm for history can be gained through fun, readable books–both fiction and non-fiction–that shine an interesting light into the past … it is only a matter of finding ones that ignite your curiosity. Whether you’d like to know more about ...

By John Royce – My new project Clean-Round.com and many of my online shares are about Show Jumping rather than other horse sports I also love … I’d like to explain. What some might call an unreasonable passion in my life has been to help connect people with horses in the modern era. My first love ...

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Into the Dark was featured in the June 2013 edition of Children’s Bookwatch. The concluding 3rd book of the Legend of the Great Horse trilogy was one of seven fiction titles selected. Children’s Bookwatch is a well-respected listing by the long-time champion of independent work, the Midwest Book Review … each selection is taken from hundreds ...

“It is surprising that horsemen took 1,500 years to think up something so simple. One is reluctantly driven to the distasteful conclusion that we are not really a very bright set of people.”–Charles Chenevix-Trench (1914-2003), A History of Horsemanship ____________ One positive thing about the Dark Ages was that horseback ‘barbarians’ invaded, pillaged, and burned using a ...

The final volume of the award-winning trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse, is being released in paperback Fall 2013. Into the Dark brings a triumphant conclusion to the adventure that has traveled the history of mankind. Hoofbeats thunder into the modern age, where love of horses preserves the partnership that made civilization. The hardback edition can be ...

New review by Into the Dark, Book #3 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, by Amazon Hall of Fame Reviewer E.A. Lovitt: E. A. Lovitt | Amazon Hall of Fame Reviewer “WORTH THE WAIT” Book III of The Legend of the Great Horse concludes John Royce’s sweeping historical fantasy about horses and horsemanship with a ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is a rollicking historical action adventure through time. Awesome, right? It’s even young adult! And it incorporates a flying horse! What more could I need in life? I’m not exactly one for fantasy, but this book is heavy on the historical, and being a history and classical studies girl, I guess this ...

A long-awaited update of the book review section is being completed. The changes will provide an easier way to see all reviews for each of the books in the trilogy. Also, there a new reviews available to share! They should be online over the next few days. Happy Summer!

“I want you to know that history is not what you’ve been told. You have been asked to pledge allegiance to certain facts…” … “And most of all history, because when someone is telling you How you got here, and why, and sometimes when, Something is at stake, for you hearing, for them telling.” –excerpted from Hoofprints by Jessie Haas ...

Introducing a new site on Pinterest which contains artwork from the eras traveled in The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy. I’d especially like to share a drawing of Pegasus from the ‘Winged Horses’ board … a drawing by talented Lili Pavkovics. Artistry runs in the Kovács family as well as practical insight: note the nicely ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is sponsoring a new horse-related website launching this weekend. The name of the site is Clean-Round.com, and its purpose is to promote equestrian sport by aggregating links to coverage and related content online. The site is set to go ‘live’ on Sunday April 21, 2013. Clean Round! is a non-profit ...

2012 saw the publication of Into the Dark, the final book of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy. The 3rd volume concludes with a time-traveling adventure through increasingly modern eras.

Stories are how we learn about the world … The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy takes a journey through history as it happened–with horses, our partner through it all. I invite new readers on a flight of fantasy into ancient realities … read the 1st chapter online to check it out! More information is available at ...

Follow a journey on Facebook through the historical eras of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. Artistic images and other material will be posted chronologically in the order of Meagan’s adventure through history.

This holiday celebrates the ‘launch’ of the conclusion to The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy: Into the Dark. I’m grateful for being allowed to tell this story … it’s been an amazing trip in so many ways. I’m also very blessed in the support I’ve received! Now that the story is complete, I want to ...

… filled with curiosity, awkwardness, vulnerability–and potential. ______ “Haflingerfohlen” © Matthias Walther / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0

Into the Dark | Book 3 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy will be exhibited at the 2012 Virginia Library Association (VLA) Annual Conference (Williamsburg, VA October 24-26, 2012).

“This book was definitely my favorite of the series. The storylines seemed to flow together more easily, and Meagan seemed to mature and learn from and make connections from her experiences…”—LibraryThing Early Review

Wonderful new display of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy at Pine Knoll Farm, home of the Peace Ponies in Lexington, Kentucky …

For the 1st time all 3 books of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy can be offered together … the 1st complete, signed sets will be available at the upcoming dressage clinic of Pine Knoll Farm (Oct 6-7).

Challenge #2 using terms from Eclipsed by Shadow.

If any sight creates instinctive excitement it is surely the horse. Children are naturally attracted to horses; people speak of ‘natural’ horsemen. Horses have been with mankind since our prehistoric ancestors enshrined equines in cave paintings. Yet most people don’t have contact with horses in daily life anymore. Fortunately there are many opportunities to keep the ...

Challenge #1 from 'Eclipsed by Shadow' Play a game using terms from Eclipsed by Shadow. The starting screen shows words and their definitions … which disappear if you drag them on top of each other. The goal is to clear the screen as quickly as possible.

A new Great Partners page is being added to the trilogy’s website to highlight those who work to share information and inspiration about horses. Our first Great Partner to share is Equi-Notes, a free newsletter “that will inspire your horse related dreams and goals.” Jacquelyn Leuener is the driving force behind Jackpot Equine and the popular ...

The ebook edition of The Golden Spark was released Saturday, September 15, 2012 … the title is being made available to wide distribution including the Nook, Sony, Epub, Apple iStore, and (soon) Amazon Kindle .

Though it may seem obvious that writing/reading is a basic skill of civilization, horsemanship has fewer advocates as a cultural practice … Yet we live in a world of paradox, and our partnership with horses should not be dismissed too lightly by the world they helped to create.

Cool new postcard includes ordering information for all 3 books of the trilogy … The postcard can be printed out to give to your local library/bookstore for ordering: The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy postcard

The Golden Spark | The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy (Book #2) is set for release in ebook edition on Saturday, September 15, 2012.

Catching up with Goodreads… a great site for booklovers. Fun new Contests & Giveaways coming … both for newly-published Book #3: Into the Dark, and also Book #2: The Golden Spark (which needs to catch up as the ‘middle book’ in the trilogy).

Even devout horse-lovers may not appreciate how much horsemanship has transformed in the past century. After thousands of years, our relationship to horses and new-found concern for their welfare is a revolution from practices of only a few decades past.

Into the Dark by John Allen Royce, Jr. is the final book of the award-winning trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse, an adventure that brings our ancient partnership with horses to life.

Every horse in the world can be traced to a single mare that trotted the earth about 130,000 to 160,000 years ago, according to findings reported by Bloomberg News as published by US National Academy of Sciences.

A new fan-oriented Facebook Page will allow community sharing and posting on the Wall. Additional pages will be set up for the other books of the trilogy. The Golden Spark (Book #2)’s Page will be opened soon with the release of the title in ebook … to be followed by Into the Dark when the paperback edition ...

Well yes, the horse does do all the work of transporting the human and itself … however that is only half the equation. Equestrian sport is an extreme sport on the human side, requiring skill, nerve, balance and timing that can be invisible to the observer.

Horsemanship mirrors society, and show jumping’s Olympic Nations Cup still serves to measure of the spirit and strength of the countries of the world.

The 2012 Games of the Olympiad usher in a new four-year cycle, the ancient ritual of our Greek ancestors. After 2700 years horsemanship is still contested in the revival of the Games. Some may wonder why we have horse sports in the Olympics … the answer may surprise you…

eclipsed by shadow the golden spark wings rider back into the dark

Into the Dark ($19.95, hardback) is just out today, and is currently available through major retailers (by ordering) or through online booksellers …

“Meagan found herself growing angry; no one seemed to know how to care for the animal properly. She wanted to brush the horse’s unkempt coat, to oil his cracked hooves. Her eyes fell to a plaque. It was a metal sign with raised letters, fixed to a podium before the plexiglass stage…” – Into ...

“The stadium erupted in cheers when the pony trotted out before the crowd. Programs fluttered onto the arena floor as the crowd’s appreciation drowned the loudspeakers’ sound. The pony looked around the filled stadium, seeming not to understand what all the fuss was about.” – Into the Dark (excerpt) Book #3 of The Legend ...

Cavalrymen knew the situation: there were no waves of doomed galloping charges against superior weaponry as enemy propaganda claimed. However in countries such as Poland in the early days of WWII, there was no time to adapt, and tragic scenes of onslaught–metal against blood–gave mankind’s insensate use of horses in battle its final tragic ...

“About the head of a truly great horse there is an air of freedom unconquerable. The eyes seem to look on heights beyond our gaze. It is the look of a spirit that can soar … It is the birthright of eagles.” —John T. Foote (1881-1950)

Pre-orders of the paperback edition of Into the Dark (The Legend of the Great Horse – Book #3) … have sold out! Author-signed copies will be made available for direct ordering after the July 20, 2012 publication of Into the Dark. _________________ New author-signed copies of the books of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy are made ...

“There is something about riding down the street on a prancing horse that makes you feel like something … even when you ain’t a thing!”– Will Rogers (1879-1935)

Into the Dark, the final book of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, is being published in hardback on July 20, 2012.

The conclusion to The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is coming this month … Book III: Into the Dark is being published on July 20, 2012.

The 2012 BookExpo America (BEA) begins tomorrow at the Javits Center in New York City. The sprawling convention is the largest publishing event in North America. Into the Dark, the upcoming conclusion to The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, will be exhibited each day of the convention as part of the book’s launch. The trilogy’s author, ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is unlike any other horse series written for young adults. Just like book one, the author has gone to great lengths to add historical accuracies to this fantasy tale. Young readers will find the time traveling horse to be interesting, but there is so much more to young ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is concluding this Summer with Book #3: Into the Dark. Publication is on June 20, 2012, the Summer Solstice,

Great announcement … there’s a new website design coming for “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. Launch date:  Wednesday April 4, 2012! UPDATE:  The new website is scheduled to go live @ 4::30 pm EST …

The Golden Spark has won in a 2012 Written Arts Award, placing 1st in Science Fiction/Fantasy!

Eclipsed by Shadow by John Allen Royce … eBook Giveaway on LibraryThing (Giveaway ends Wednesday, February 29, 2012)

“The Golden Spark” is a tale that will appeal to young readers of fantasy and particularly readers interested in horsemanship. The story is magical and enchanting and the writing moves along at a nice pace as we follow Meagan on her journey through history.—Kam Aures, Written Arts Awards – Rebecca’s Reads

This excerpt is from The Golden Spark, Book #2 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, an adventure through history―on horseback. The year is 1519 and the Conquistadors are bringing horses to shore … from where they have been absent for many thousands of years. “Once more upon the water, yet once more! And the waves bound ...

“History is a Tale of Horses” … Tomorrow begins a new series of short posts tracing the chronological history of horsemanship. The series will be published daily on both Facebook and Twitter as short ‘tweet’-sized posts.

Announcing 2 Giveaways of Eclipsed by Shadow ebooks on LibraryThing All you need to enter is a (free) LibraryThing membership … scroll down linked page for the entry! Giveaway #1 ends December 17, 2011 Giveaway #2 will be open from Dec. 18 – 23rd (link will be posted once available!)

Book II of The Legend of the Great Horse continues John Royce’s sweeping historical fantasy about horses and horsemanship, and I am very much looking forward to learning why 16-year-old Meagan Roberts was flung backward into time. Don’t listen to anyone who tries to label this trilogy as a work of juvenile fiction. It is ...

“I am a priest, child. What are they going to do? They have gotten themselves into a corner here on this beach, and chances are they will need me to get out, so to speak.” …

Trapped in time, all she has is her will and her equine knowledge to try to guide her home … With a good focus on history and horses, THE GOLDEN SPARK is a fun and enjoyable read, highly recommended.”—Midwest Book Review ~ Children’s Bookwatch

Into the Dark, the final volume of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, is to be published on June 21st, the Summer Solstice of 2012.

The opening scene from The Golden Spark (Book #2 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy … after Meagan escaped a medieval mob at the end of Book #1: Eclipsed by Shadow.

Into the Dark is the title of Book #3 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, taken from the legend’s poem … Media announcement of Book #3 including publication dates coming Friday, 11/11/11!

The new excerpt series from The Golden Spark, Book #2 of the trilogy, begins  Thursday, November 10th … The full excerpt series for Book #1: Eclipsed by Shadow can be found on TheGreatHorse.com website!

“Pattering footsteps approached … a group of clergy entered the corridor, carrying candles close to their hooded faces. It was the Brotherhood on their way to the candlelit midnight Mass. This unsettling rite was feared: the service was also called the Dark Choir.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the ...

The Golden Spark (Book #2 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy) will be on display this week at the 2011 Virginia Library Association (VLA) Annual Conference from October 27th to 28th in Portsmouth, VA. The 2011 VLA Annual Conference theme is: “Nature is a Language, Can You Read? Literacy and Sustainability in Virginia’s Libraries.”

“The ground was black with horsemen. Galloping shadows swirled through the flaming village below. Black lines streaked across the green rampart. Mist rose in places to give glimpses of the nomads pausing to devour the village.”—excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy

In which Meagan enjoys the hospitality of the Middle Ages … Breugel, “Wedding Feast” / {{PD-Art|PD-old-100}} EVERY NICE THING Meagan had ever thought about castles was wrong. Standing inside her quarters (which she shared with four others), she could hear things crawling in the sweet-smelling rushes laid over the floor. Her newly-corrected wardrobe, a light gown, ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is now on Twitter … follow us @TheGreatHorse

“Targa ducked away from this second wave of horsemen. Looking back, Meagan expected to see her pursuers toiling away in the distance—instead, three galloping riders were coming up fast behind her.” – excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy)

‘…Meagan and Henryk saw a village ahead. The road ran through the settlement and up another hill, disappearing under a stone archway—the walls of the Castle Sobrezy.’ ~ excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy

‘ On the road behind them, their pursuer dropped to one knee and reached for the bow behind his back. Meagan turned and closed her legs—Targa leapt forward, and before the man could string his arrow the pony was coming fast upon him… ’ —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of ...

Check out the Excerpt Series from The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy!

The Golden Spark by John Allen Royce has been named an Independent Publisher (IP) Highlighted Title for August 2011. The IP Highlighted Title designation honors newly-published books exhibiting superior levels of creativity, originality, and high standards of design and production quality.

‘Meagan turned back, deciding there was nothing more useless than a knight. Fairytales could talk about shining knights riding up on white steeds, but she was beginning to think their fabled rescues could do without the knight if one had the horse. If knights were not the only people with swords, she was sure no ...

This is the first book I read by Royce and I have to say I was very entertained. Time Travel is my favorite genre, so I knew it would appeal to me on some level. However I would not have thought a book that helps you to understand the equestrian “how to’s” would be interesting. ...

‘THE MUFFLED CRYING sound came again, from just over the hill. Meagan crept forward. A man was crouched at the base of the knoll, sobbing. He wore chain mail over coarse brown fabric. Next to him lay a shield and a long, tapered, brightly-painted wooden pole: a knight’s lance.’ —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book ...

John Allen Royce’s debut title, Eclipsed by Shadow, has been nominated for a Global eBook Award in the Young Adult Fiction category.

History, fantasy, myth, adventure and proper equine care all shine brightly in this first book in the trilogy. Royce weaves all of these elements together beautifully and young readers probably won’t even notice that they are learning about history and horse care while on this great ride back through time. I learned quite a bit ...

‘A ROAR WENT up as a new division of knights took the field, row upon row gaining speed with each stride … “No!” Meagan cried. “Call them back! Do not follow, that is what they want you to do!”’ —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. ...

“Meagan swallowed, looking at the unsavory collection of people around her bearing limps, pockmarks, warts, and filmed-over eyes. Here she was a goddess of beauty.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 201)

THE GOLDEN SPARK, book 2 in The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, opens with the last chapter of book 1 in the series, ECLIPSED BY SHADOW. It follows the adventures of a young horse-loving teenager, Meagan who is lost in history trying to find her way home to the 21st century.—Library Thing Early Reviewer

THE STENCH WAS worse than the nomad camps, worse even than the squalid valleys of Rome. Meagan was pushed along a rutted, muddy street through man- and animal-made puddles, and into a courtyard surrounded by buildings of oversized hewn beams.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

I like John Royce’s writing because he manages to write historical fiction that includes not only good historical details, but also details about the history of domestic horses and the evolution of horse riding. Not only does he include a lot of facts about horses, he manages to make those facts interesting for people who ...

“A knot of men on foot clubbed their way forward and a horse wheeled away, falling against Targa and bringing her down. Meagan slid hard against the wooden wall, scraped between the wood and her struggling mare. Her arm fell free into open space, and she pulled herself off the pony and through the opening ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is a fast, action-packed adventure from start to the heart pounding cliffhanger. The author did a marvelous job blending history and fantasy together in this first book of the trilogy. For fans of horse books and fantasy adventures. Once you finish reading the final page, you’ll be longing for the next installment.—Billy ...

“Going into the book with very limited horse knowledge, I feel that I learned quite a bit about horses, and have gained a greater appreciation for their place in history. I enjoyed reading about how the horses were cared for on the Spaniard ships, the techniques used to train them in 17th century Europe, and ...

Whether hitting a goat skin in a game played like polo or running a spontaneous race, a serious edge underlay the fun. The nomads had given up their lives to the horse and in return had become superhuman. The people could survive for a time without food, but they could not survive without horses. – ...

Sometime, somewhere on the plains… A fall among these people was uncommon, particularly one from a standing mount. A crowd was gathering. From where Meagan stood beside the pack animal, she could plainly see her former pony was in a sour mood from being abused during the argument and was not interested in being ridden. The best ...

MEAGAN FELT HERSELF floating. I must be moving again, she half-dreamed. To somewhere else, another time … maybe I am home. Home! … A fly landed on her nose. It was a horrible disappointment to open her eyes and see people sitting on their mats beside lines of tied horses. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Let me state at the outset that this is a rip-snorting tale and an overall fun read. The author is very proficient in his craft and there is little to quibble about the structure, pace, language, and overall writing of this book. I continue to be impressed with the quality of the writing and rhetoric.—Kilgore ...

When Meagan opened her eyes, her first thought was she had been beaten. Heavily. A horn sounded at close proximity and pain blossomed throughout her body in an amazing bouquet. Maybe I was run over by a chariot after all, she thought, wincing. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The Golden Spark | Book 2 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy will be exhibiting at the 2011 Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) Annual Conference (Danvers, MA April 26-29, 2011). The MLA is a professional library association that “advocates for libraries, librarians, and library staff, defends intellectual freedom, and provides a forum for leadership, communication, ...

It can be hard to write about horses and not be misunderstood. Most people seem decided about horses one way or another (mostly another), and conventional “wisdom” I’ve known tends to dismiss horses and their activities as outdated and obsolete. The misunderstanding is understandable: we humans have always been a few flakes short of a bale ...

Riding on, Meagan could see the approaching black cloud was actually an enormous congregation of horses and riders spreading across the horizon, waves of bobbing movement stretching beyond sight. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

“Thrilling and intelligent fantasy … a great blend of academic and adventurous reading that is beach-ready.” ~ US Review of Books The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is an award-winning adventure about horsemanship in civilization … history comes alive as a teenager travels back in time and experiences how horses were used in the past. Book ...

Meagan’s pony suddenly raised her head and whinnied into the wind, and hundreds of answers echoed across the empty grassland. The trumpeting of horses filled the open plain as if the land ahead were welcoming them. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The trade cover for The Golden Spark (Book II of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy), published by Micron Press was designed by Allen Griffith of Eye 4 Design based in Austin, TX.

A fun and unique “creative non-fiction” story for adults and teens, The Golden Spark follows the struggles of a young woman carried unwillingly through the Renaissance, who uses her knowledge of modern horsemanship to survive.

NOTHING HARMLESS FEELS so much like dying as having one’s breath well and truly knocked out. Heaving for air without result, Meagan fought panic as she waited for a breath. When it finally came, she leaned onto her hands and panted in great gulps. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

One reason “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy is a worthwhile read is its exploration of history in chronological order — with time lines before each new era — as it traces the development in horsemanship in civilization.

The following excerpt is from Eclipsed by Shadow, the award-winning 1st Book of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. Heavily-scented guards pressed around Meagan. No wonder claustrophobia is a Latin word, she thought as they jostled her. This was happening too quickly. “Of course I will visit you, Horace. Do I have to go?” “We could ...

The Three (3) Rules of The Great Horse (aka “3 Great Rules”) are derived from legends and (possibly apocryphal) history associated with the supernatural equine manifestation herein and heretofore described as “The Great Horse.”

Horses streamed into Meagan’s view amid plumes of sand. The two lead chariots ran well ahead of the Emperor’s team, but the trailing field was bottled behind the Imperial horses, reluctant to meet Cerberus. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

This excerpt is from Eclipsed by Shadow, Book #1 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, an adventure through history―on horseback. The scene is set in ancient Rome (100 AD): Meagan meets the Emperor’s infamous chariot horse, Cerberus … “Now that no one buys our votes, the public has cast off its cares; the people that ...

The initial Book Launch Giveaway ended this week, attracting 801 entries on Goodreads! Two new Giveaways begin today and tomorrow (Sunday 12/4/10) at Goodreads and LibraryThing for the final Advance Review Copies of the new volume, “The Golden Spark.”

When the driver did not leave, Meagan sat up straighter. Maybe some Romans were friendly, she thought. One shouldn’t judge based on a few. “Have you been a driver very long?” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Almost all of our modern ideas on history and mankind have been anticipated in Greek & Roman thought … human nature has not changed enough to make knowledge of our ancestors obsolete.

THERE IS MORE to chariot racing than its appearance of runaway horses, Meagan soon learned. The game was more about survival than speed. Charioteers rode as upon a galloping skateboard, using their weight to change direction. Communication with the horses was limited to slaps and pulls. Of course, the true horseman’s challenge of chariot racing was ...

When she was not being reprimanded or ordered about, Meagan was generally considered not to exist. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

“Horses helped Meagan through the dark days. The familiar rhythms of their care was an anchor to the world she had always known.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Enter the Goodreads Book Giveaway of “Eclipsed by Shadow” (November 15-21, 2011)

The stallion renewed his fight and pandemonium filled the aisle. Restraining chains were linked. In the end the black stallion was safely conducted outside, leaving the dazed grooms staggering as if on a battlefield. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Meagan hugged her knees tighter, feeling ridiculous to find herself rehearsing the finer points of riding a flying horse. No, she could not be where she seemed to be, shivering on a cot in the ancient city of Rome. This experience was clearly the result of reading too much history and getting a bump on ...

Caesar stood as riders in green tunics rode forth between columns of marching men. The first chariot to appear was pulled by four black horses, their manes woven in matching emerald ribbon. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

This work is a crisply written taut tale that moves along nicely. I finished its 273 pages in one sitting. The main thrust of the book falls in two areas: horses and horsemanship; world history. I personally found the author’s expertise in horses and horsemanship to be the most compelling and interesting part of the ...

FOR A LONG time Meagan remained in the position the soldiers had left her, stunned and afraid to move. She huddled alone in a cold, gritty underground cell, buried in catacombs beneath the amphitheater. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Even in this dark dream, Meagan did not want to see another death. She forgot danger; she reached over the stricken horse and touched the soldier’s arm. The eye in the scarred face fixed on her. The granite look of victory flickered as the crowd fell silent. –Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The online site LibraryThing is hosting an Author Chat on Oct. 18-24th for John Allen Royce, author of “Eclipsed by Shadow,” 1st book of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy …

Meagan knelt in her tattered nightgown, barefoot on wet, cement-like flooring. This is not happening, she repeated, keeping her eye on the soldiers. The group was forced to its feet and she was shoved forward with the others. Sweat, garlic and leather mingled with the scent of animals and dung. – Eclipsed by Shadow

Meagan froze with her hand on the horse, having a gradual realization she was touching cold flesh. She backed to the wall. – Eclipsed by Shadow excerpt

The author, John Allen Royce, will be in attendance at the annual New England Independent Booksellers Conference (NEIBA) being held this weekend at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, RI … the 1st industry event to introduce The Golden Spark ~ Book II of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy…

THE DROP WAS not far, not more than ten feet. For a time Meagan lay with her eyes and hands clenched shut, trying to make sense of recent events. Slowly she opened her eyes and let her vision adjust to the dim light around her. A hoof stood inches from her face. – Eclipsed by ...

As the wave of chariots hurled into the fight, it was clear each unit was unstoppable even by its pilot—perhaps especially by its pilot—for chariots do not stop destroying in death but come apart in deadly pieces, releasing with each horse a new force of chaos. – Eclipsed by Shadow

The World Equestrian Games (WEG) are the largest sporting event in the US this year … the featured competitions offer an intriguing and dynamic look at the history of civilization. Driving: An echo in time Mankind’s first records are seen in prehistoric cave paintings over 20,000 years old, and are filled with images of horses … ...

A tinkling swept over the hilltop, a musical sound that vanished with the breeze. Another round of chimes played in the gusts of wind, and Meagan caught a flash in the corner of her eye. A stream of movement emerged from a dip in the landscape. She stared in astonishment as horses and riders rose ...

Meagan saw motion on the horizon. The distant line of trees seemed to shimmer and sway. A wispy film lay above them, as if the trees were on fire. No, she scolded herself, not everything has to be a disaster. – Eclipsed by Shadow

EVERYTHING STOPPED, WITH neither a bump nor a sensation of falling. Meagan tried to clench the horse underneath her, but there was nothing to hold. She stared at the dusty ground, feeling vertigo from the sudden stop. Around her, the landscape was changed from its flat, rock-studded panorama, folding now into gentle hills that rolled ...

Pre-orders for Book II: “The Golden Spark” (2nd volume of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy) begin Sept 25, 2010 …

In Eclipsed by Shadow, the first book of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy, young Meagan Roberts takes the ride on a prehistoric wild horse … that’s just how things were between horses and humans 20,000 years ago.

The spooked horses stampeded into the deadly corridor. The gray mare swung with the herd as Meagan grabbed mane and fought to stay mounted. Packed bodies crushed against her and she was carried with the torrent. Walls of rock blurred as the band plunged down the canyon… – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The tribe advanced, slowly tightening their circle as the herd milled in confusion. The only apparent escape was the deadly corridor between the rocks. The lead mare paced, trying to find another way before committing to the canyon’s blind entrance. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

A scene in “Eclipsed by Shadow” involves a prehistoric horse hunt, with man as the predator. This hunting scene took place in the same era that prehistoric cave paintings were being created, art still visible to us in places like the amazing caves of Lascaux, France.  Even in prehistoric times we have Man the predator ...

A horse’s eyes are made to detect motion, and if the man made the slightest tremor the mare would recognize the danger. But she required that tremor. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

A horse’s greatest fear is a predator on its back, the only place unreachable by a bite or kick. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The advancement of civilization has required many changes in attitude in mankind, perhaps none more revolutionary than the idea that horses might be our partners. The lesson of prehistoric horses is that our world has possibilities that exceed not our grasp … but our attitudes.

… if nothing else, water was a softer landing than dirt. She took a breath, hitched up her nightgown and gently closed her hands around the horse’s knotted mane. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Warm breath smelling of cut lawn blew on her neck. Meagan blinked in surprise but did not move. She thought of something else her grandfather used to say: “Horses are as unpredictable as people, only they have more sense.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

This weekend through the end of August, new copies of Eclipsed by Shadow are on sale for $11.95 (paperback)  … Right now Amazon is discounting to $10.75!

A horse with the unmistakable girth of a broodmare stepped haltingly to the water’s edge. When the mare lowered her head, blowing softly across the water, the whole band flowed in, heads high and ears taut. The stallion stayed back from the edge and paced the dark shore. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

For new folks stopping by, a new page is up for Eclipsed by Shadow!

At least it smells nice, Meagan thought, breathing deeply. Maybe I could live off the land. Of course, she had not the slightest idea of how such a thing was done: she was the primitive here. Uneasiness hummed beneath her consciousness like a low bass note. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

“I am sure you are very nice,” Meagan said tightly, “but you don’t have a shirt and, well, you are wearing blood. I will find Promise and then this can all go away. I really am sorry. It’s all my fault.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

A sudden thump on the rock announced one of the creatures, and Meagan was looking into the intense blue eyes of the staring girl. Meagan backed against the cliff wall. “Hello. Nice to see you again.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Sneaking around is the rule for horse-hunters… and it ain’t easy. As anyone who has spent time with horses knows, our silent partner is quite alert to potential lions in the flower-pots. The horse’s creed is “he who quickly runs away, lives to run another day,” and he instinctively knows his survival depends upon a ...

Meagan climbed to her feet and looked around in astonishment. She stood on a ledge overlooking wide, empty fields. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

A Facebook Album selection of artwork … cave paintings estimated from 15 to 32,000 years old, contrasted with work from the early 20th Century impressionist Franz Marc…

An empty landscape spread before her, basking in late afternoon sun. This is strange, Meagan thought, swallowing. Solid rock walls rose on either side of her, marbled with green moss and snaking black fissures. Nothing manmade was in sight. – “Eclipsed by Shadow” (excerpt)

Wind rose in Meagan’s ears, and time stretched into a series of still photographs as the young thoroughbred gathered and stretched. The ground blurred and together they lifted into the air. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Promise let Meagan come close, but gave no signs of relaxing. Every fiber in the horse was prepared for flight, and her wide eyes never left the two men. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

In moments Meagan was down the stairs and out the back door. On the patio, still in her nightgown, she stopped in shock. The filly’s bridle was pulled halfway off and both reins had snapped. – Eclipsed by Shadow excerpt

Meagan stood quietly and lifted the window blinds. The early sky was gray and turbulent. Birds chirped in the cool pre-morning. She folded her hands on the window sill, ready for tears. Promise was gone, stolen. – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Early excerpts from Eclipsed by Shadow have been posted on the book’s blog and  Facebook page — and the story is about to take off. Literally. Eclipsed by Shadow begins an adventure through the ages when horses were everyday companions in work, war, sport and spectacle … Our teenage heroine journeys to prehistoric days when man’s interest ...

Heavy clouds curtained the morning’s light. The previous day had been like early spring, but today was going to be gray, damp and cold. Pneumonia weather, Randy grumbled to himself, tramping across the pasture with a halter. ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Jennifer wished the answer could be different. “Meagan, there are no such things as Great Horses. I like that you are taking an interest in history, but you can’t believe in fantasies.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

The old woman leaned close, and the measure of centuries seemed to weigh in her words. “No one would want to see all that we have shown horses…” ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is such an interesting book! I learned so much about horses in history – it really was intriguing. I think that this book would be fantastic for any horse lover – boy or girl. There are so many different characters interwoven into the fabric of the story that it would appeal to ...

The woman’s tone was solemn. “My sources call her the Great Traveler, with power to bring darkness to the world. Of course, we wouldn’t be sure unless the Great Horse was actually ridden, but that must never happen.” Meagan’s eyes were wide. “I admit it is strange. In all my readings, Great Horses have never ...

“First, a Great Horse is born at dawn. That is an unusual time for mares, as they usually foal near midnight. Secondly, no one can ride a Great Horse without the owner’s permission.” ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Civilization has not been a straight path upward: human empathy and progress have faltered before.

The Mageste Beste is kneughne moste certis by tide of birth At Prime whanne the sonne ronne fro the earth, Ich wight not ryde, save conssente by hir maister wille. It muste be few wight beknowen the treuthe Ichone Maistere is tolde by a furst. ~ excerpt from “Eclipsed by Shadow” revealing the rules of knowing a Great Horse

Hail the fleet hawk of the earth, thunder announces his approach. He gives one man victory, all men ecstasy. In this One the gods have taken form. ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Mrs. Bridgestone smoothed her dress nervously. “I know how it must sound, but all religions have a story of the Creator giving the horse to mankind. Paganism, Christianity, Islam—think of Pegasus! Is not the winged, white horse the very image of an angel?” ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

“My sources indicate a Great Horse was to be born on the summer solstice of the new millennium. A female, born at dawn. The birth happened last year.” ~ Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

Caligula had a stable of marble and gold built for the stallion, complete with furnishings and servants. Though horses are strict vegetarians, Incitatus was fed mice dipped in butter and marinated squid.” Mrs. Bridgestone added more quietly, “Of course, the man was considered dangerously insane.” – Eclipsed by Shadow (excerpt)

“Cortés was forced to leave his prized stallion behind with natives who knew nothing of horses. They fed him only meat and wine until the poor animal wasted away and died. Frightened of Cortez’s wrath, the natives made an enormous statue of the horse to worship.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of The ...

“The Four Winds swirled into a shape of beauty that moved to thunder … the Angel took form and became the first Horse.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy)

“If you mean education-related, yes. Horses are said to be excellent teachers and only so much can be taught in a classroom.” The woman cleared her throat delicately. “Do you believe in legends, dear?” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 48)

‘ “It is fascinating how closely horsemanship and culture coincide. When Europe fell into the Dark Ages, their horsemanship deteriorated into barbarism. It was not until the Renaissance that humane methods were rediscovered.” Mrs. Bridgestone stepped to the fence and reached a frail hand to stroke the filly’s neck. “In owning a horse, I feel ...

The following excerpt is from Eclipsed by Shadow, the 1st volume of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. “Allow me time to explain.” The elderly woman waited as the tea was poured, accepting her cup with a polite murmur. “I have gained some experience with horses since we last met, Meagan.” Mrs. Bridgestone ...

Here’s a descriptive new review of Eclipsed by Shadow posted by Morning Glow (aka Amanda), on Novel Addiction: From the back of the book:   Eclipsed by Shadow is the first book of an exciting new trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse, a journey through the ages when horses were everyday companions in work, war, ...

FIVE out of FIVE … the history was accurately done, the journey is amazing, and Meagan rose to each occasion she was thrown into.— Amanda T, Novel Addiction

“Promise looked on hungrily, a demented blonde reindeer wearing fake antlers and a white beard…” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 22)

A free ebook edition of “Eclipsed by Shadow” is being offered in return for donations to New England Equine Rescues (NEER).

“You never got to meet any of the old girls. Just as well, son. Be a shame if they’d scared you off.”—excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 15)

“Tom would not have considered himself a horse-lover …. Still, he had come to appreciate the solemn tranquility the presence of a horse creates.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 1)

“Meagan had loved the huge mare since her second birthday, when she had been held up on Moose’s wide back, terrified and grabbing fistfuls of mane, crying to be taken off immediately and put back on forever.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p.1)

There aren’t many venues in which authors are the main attraction, and participating as the winner of the 2010 Mom’s Choice Award for YA Fantasy (for “Eclipsed by Shadow”) gave me a place to be and experienced veterans to learn from.

“MEAGAN AWOKE WITH a start and sat upright in bed. The dream had come again. The dream of the flying horse.” —excerpted from Eclipsed by Shadow (Book #1 of ‘The Legend of the Great Horse’ trilogy (p. 1)

The Book Expo of America (BEA) begins today at the Javits Center in New York City. This three day convention is the largest publishing event in North America. Author John Royce will be participating in the event as a winner of the Mom’s Choice Award for best Young Adult Fantasy. His debut title, “Eclipsed by Shadow ...

My 5-year-old niece watched the Rolex Kentucky 3-Day Event this weekend, and she was full of questions: “Why are they jumping that?” “Is that a boy or a girl horse?” “Why do they go one at a time?” “What’s on the horse’s legs?” As intensely as she watched, my niece didn’t care about the teams or the scoring. She just ...

Horses may have pulled and carried humanity up the long ascent from primitive cultures, but it wasn’t a straight line. Human societies have been subject to cycles of  falling away from civilized life. “Dark age” describes the lack of historical records from these periods, such as during the Bronze Age collapse about 1200 BC, which ended ...

It seems to me the world belongs to those who have time to think … will the texting, tweeting future allow us commoners that luxury?

Ebook editions of “Eclipsed by Shadow,” the award-winning 1st volume of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy, will be available through major outlets on May 1, 2010.

The horse is prey and never forgets it: his motto is to ‘run away to live another day.’

The Golden Spark, Book II of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy, will be published on this Fall 2010. The eagerly-anticipated sequel to Eclipsed by Shadow continues the historical adventure with a journey through the Renaissance. The story follows the main character, Meagan Roberts, as she struggles to survive history and find her way home. A ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is filled with horses galloping through history — but the story is not about horses. It is about us: for it is ourselves we find in horses, for better or worse.

Book II of my fiction trilogy about horses and history is being published soon. So why did I write about horses? The main reason is they teach us about the world, and they’re lots of fun. Here are some reasons I think horses are an interesting subject: Horses have always been with us Since Stone Age ...

The Mom’s Choice Awards® has named Eclipsed by Shadow: The Legend of the Great Horse ~ Book I of III among the best in family-friendly media, products and services.

The heroine of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is resourceful, quick-witted and brave … her name is Meagan Roberts. The trilogy follows the development of horsemanship in human history, and horses have given the world such rugged male icons as cowboys (and indians), knights in shining armor and cavalry charges, not to mention Ben-Hur. ...

Eclipsed by Shadow wins Gold!

“The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy is a journey through history by a modern horse-rider. The story begins with a foal being born to a family with a horse-crazy youngster, Meagan. This horse carries Meagan on an adventure through history.

After a long Winter of editing the second book of “The Legend of the Great Horse,” I’m looking forward to getting back to regular posting. (I know I’m jumping the gun by declaring the season over, but others living in the frozen tundra will understand.) The book’s blog has been reorganized a bit, to focus on ...

I’ve recently heard about something that has definite appeal to anyone else being swept downstream in the Web 2.0 digital river of blogs, tweets, and other social media technologies. The word “kaizen” basically means “improvement” in Japanese, but it has come to mean a method of continuous incremental improvements in process or design. Kaizen in ...

Hi guys! Well I blew right through #2-4 of my 2010 resolutions and #5 is huddled in the corner looking at me with understandable suspicion. And I only made 5. But my Top Number One Resolution for the New Year was to start up blogging regularly by the 15th of January. And dammit I’m doing it, ...

It’s a great time to be alive, watching the wheels of history turning and trying to avoid being run over. It feels like that in publishing right now, between the ongoing demise of booksellers and big publishing houses and the oncoming wave of technologies such as Print on Demand (POD), e-book readers, and of course ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is a book well-worth reading. What a wonderful way to get factual history into a great readable fiction novel. I have passed it along to my twelve-year-old daughter and she loves it. Personally the Glossary of Terms at the end of the book was of great help as I ...

I want to wish everyone great holidays … I’m going to be away from blogging and social media for a while. I’m preparing for a move, never a minor incident in Boston. I’m also gearing up for next year and the release of the second volume of the trilogy, The Golden Spark. “Yikes” is my ...

With ECLIPSED BY SHADOW, John Royce has created a wonderful legend sure to please historians and equestrians alike. Jammed packed with chariot racing, jousting and action galore one wonders how one book can hold so much. With each turn of the page a new adventure awaits.—Angela Simmons, Review the Book

I found this to be a topic with some ugly background, but here’s good news … if it happens: The legislation, drawn up in consultation with the RSPCA, will include provisions to both protect pets and cover how farm animals should be raised, transported and slaughtered. It will also deliver protection for captive wildlife and laboratory ...

The second European qualifier for the World Cup of Show Jumping was held over the weekend in Helsinki, Finland. The on-fire Swiss rider Daniel Etter and his mount Peu a Peu won the event in a 10-horse jumpoff to match their World Cup Qualifier victory last weekend in Oslo. USA rider Lauren Hough on Quick Study ...

The European season of World Cup Show Jumping opened today in Oslo, Norway. The World Cup is an extensive series of indoor qualifiers across the globe, leading to the Finals in April. It is an interesting odd fact that horse jumping is a  young sport: the ability of horses to jump with a rider was not discovered ...

If history may be said to be the memory of the human race, it seems subject to many of the same failings of accuracy and interpretation. We see this even in our most recent history: for example a national self-image embraced by some which holds America to be a militaristic warrior-race which “won” WWII, rather ...

I recently read an inspirational story about an occupational therapist teaching South African street children to ride horses. The horse has had many roles in our society, some of which have been replaced by technology (eg., transportation, war, food) … however some of the horse’s most important roles in human lives remain vital. Horses are wonderful ...

This engaging book will especially appeal to young adult readers and educators. The story combines fast-paced adventure with accurate information about horsemanship and the various historical periods explored.—Mary Barrett, The Nashville News

History is an inexact science to be sure, relying at least partially on hearsay and filtered through the political whims of its era. History is also old in the physical sense of the word, an unattractive quality to some. But the past isn’t dead. As William Faulkner said, “it isn’t even past.” Yes, the actors are gone, ...

Last weekend I visited our local Boston racetrack, Suffolk Downs, for an instant trip back in time. The white fences, the green landscaped infield, the mixed scents of horses, concessions and people, the growing excitement as a race approaches … it was a scene both nostalgic and modern. Festivals and horses are an ancient tradition. Milling ...

Though horsemanship is ancient, Show Jumping itself is one of the world’s youngest professional sports! Organized jumping is barely 100 years old. It was not known that horses could jump large fences until the 18th Century, when fox hunting was threatened by the Enclosure Laws that fenced previously open land. A century ago we seemed to be ...

The following is the Eric Hoffer Award review of Eclipsed by Shadow that was featured in the 2009 edition of the US Review of Books. Eric Hoffer Awards | Emily Hinton “Meagan heard shouting behind her as Promise reached for the safety of speed… Wind rose in Meagan’s ears, and time stretched into a series ...

Okay, my blogging is a mess. There, I said it. And once you slow down it gets hard to go again … I think I have the problem of Stephen Leacock’s rider who “flung himself from the room, flung himself upon his horse and rode madly off in all directions.” In posting about horses and history, ...

A new review by Mara Dabrishus of the blog Whitebrook Farm mentions Incitatus, a famed Roman chariot-racing stallion favored by the third Emperor Caligula (24-41 AD) to the point of obsession. The book passage mentioning Incitatus comes during a visit to the strange library of Mrs. Bridgestone, an eccentric woman who has made a collection ...

Naufragia was the name Romans gave to crashes during a chariot race, the shocking pileups of man, machine and thrashing horses. Naufragia is the latin word for “shipwreck,” which conjures the shocking destruction and tangled ruin that so dismayed—and ultimately delighted—the screaming spectators of the Circus. Naufragia was ultimate disaster, an end not only to hopes ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW was named a July 4th Display Title by the New England Independent Booksellers Association (NEIBA). The book was featured in various bookstores in the Boston area, including Village Books in Roslindale, Harvard Square Books, Porter Square Books and Robin Bledsoe’s equestrian-oriented antiquarian bookstore.

In our modern society we have celebrity athletes of different sports, but this is not simply a continuation of historical tradition. Rome was the society that first grew athlete-superstars was Rome. After their collapse, Europe endured a period of centuries known as the Dark or Middle Ages in which there were no celebrity athletes. It ...

Oh no! He’s taken the corner wide! What are you doing? The next chariot is crowding you. What are you doing, you idiot? You’re going to lose what my girl’s prayed for! Pull, please, PULL left as hard as you can. We are rooting for a bum. –Ovid (43 BC – AD 17) Roman poet, Amores This poem from circa year ...

A city is gripped in mania: favored teams of pampered athletes from around the known world are meeting in no-holds-barred competition on the field of sport. Dignitaries and celebrities mingle with major sports figures as throngs chant the names of their favorites. Vast sums are wagered, details of the competition are endlessly debated. A deafening ...

“The Chariot Race” (1882) by Alexander von Wagner A goal of mine when writing “Eclipsed by Shadow” was to introduce lesser-known history and discuss it in new ways. Roman chariot racing signaled something new to humanity with far-reaching implications, and it was the phenomenon that made me aware of the central role horsemanship has truly ...

Why I wrote “The Legend of the Great Horse” A tragedy sparked The Great Horse trilogy (of which Eclipsed by Shadow is the first volume). I came to know of this sad event because I lived in Cambridge, MA, where it occurred. It happened in the 1990’s as a wave of corporatization washed over Harvard Square, which ...

I recently wrote that the spark to my writing “Eclipsed by Shadow” was triggered by the corporatization of Harvard Square and the loss of its venerable old bookstores. It was alarmingly easy to relate ancient nomadic destruction of religious settlements to the commercial invasion of these hallowed shelves. Both invaders had as their object mere ...

John Royce’s debut novel “Eclipsed by Shadow” has won the Eric Hoffer Book Award for Young Adult (YA) Fiction for its fun and engaging portrayal of the history of horsemanship in civilization. __________________________________________________ ‘Eclipsed by Shadow’ Wins Eric Hoffer Book Award for Young Adult (YA) Fiction Boston, MA (PRWEB) May 27, 2009 — John Royce’s debut novel “Eclipsed ...

Chariots of early history (16th century BC) This is my third “Mirror” post in a row, and where I finally explain the use of the metaphor and close the barn door after it. In the first post of this Mirror trilogy, I mentioned becoming interested in reading about history while browsing the shelves of the doomed used ...

Eclipsed by Shadow has won the Eric Hoffer Book Award for Young Adult (YA) Fiction! This is a tremendous national honor given in the name of one of America’s great thinkers. The Eric Hoffer Award for short prose and books was established at the start of the 21st century as a means of ...

“In a time of drastic change, it is the learners who inherit the future.” – Eric Hoffer, American Philosopher Boston, MA, May 8, 2009 (PressReleasePoint) – The YA historical fiction novel Eclipsed by Shadow has been named to the Eric Hoffer Book Award Grand Prize Shortlist. The Eric Hoffer Book Award is presented each year as ...

This fascinating YA first book of a trilogy on the history of man’s relationships with the horse is particularly well done … teaches not only the history of Man’s relationship with the horse, but the history and day to day cultures of different civilizations of the past.—Bob Spear, Heartland Reviews

The following is the description of Eclipsed by Shadow for the Mom’s Choice Awards: Eclipsed by Shadow is the first book of a new trilogy, “The Legend of the Great Horse,” which takes the reader on a journey through the ages when horses were everyday companions in work, war, sport and spectacle. The story is told ...

For Immediate Release Contact: Robert Hall | Micron Press 617-301-2901 History at a Gallop: “Eclipsed by Shadow” wins 2009 Reader Views Literary Award » See Reader Views Literary Award Review BOSTON – The critically acclaimed first volume of a bold new trilogy about the history of horsemanship has won in the Fantasy category of the 2008 Reader Views Literary ...

The Legend of the Great Horse’s Facebook page has been updated, come be a fan! Also, there has been a major facelift to the book site on AuthorsDen.

Update 10/17/20: This post is now part of history, too … the book’s profile was deleted by the company that bought out MySpace as it self destructs. It was long since superceded by Facebook, and Pinterest, and Instagram, and so it goes. The MySpace page for the historical fiction trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse ...

The following is an excerpt from the most recent review of “Eclipsed by Shadow” by Shirley Johnson, Senior Reviewer for the Midwest Book Review: “I enjoyed this book.  I really had no idea of the extent the subject matter would educate me about the history of the horse.  I truly admire horses, although I have never ...

The first book of the historical fiction trilogy, “Eclipsed by Shadow” has been named a finalist in the annual Reader Views 2009 Literary Awards. The work by first-time author John Allen Royce was one of four finalists in the Fantasy category. The title was co-nominated for Historical Fiction and General Fiction. The Reader Views annual literary ...

In this book I learned so much about past and what an important role they played in the development of mankind. Some of the events left me disturbed, others were intense, but each episode was definitely a learning experience. The characters were well developed and the locals were defined in an exceptional ...

Fantasy and horse lovers of all ages will enjoy a new book titled ECLIPSED BY SHADOW, the Legend of the Great Horse, written by John Royce. This is book one of a projected three book series.—Dee Ann Ray, “Books are my Bag” Weatherford Daily News

This post begins a timeline to discuss the various eras traveled in “Eclipsed by Shadow,” and the rest of “The Legend of the Great Horse” trilogy. The first era is Pre-History. Man’s long, colorful relationship with the horse is revealed in one of humanity’s oldest creative impulses: Art.  The equine image has adorned virtually every medium ...

One thing you notice when researching historical fiction like “Eclipsed by Shadow” is how much human history is owed to the horse. Civilization advanced through adapting to the horse’s outlook. Horsemanship is a civilized encounter with an alien mind. Horses are a “prey” species whose code is: “he who quickly runs away, lives to run another ...

I recently watched the live video feeds from two major international jumping events, The Syracuse Invitational and the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. The horses look great, the riders are skilled, the competition level is high and humane. Both are well-run by innovative management. The only lack was in the Announcing. Show jumping is like ...

This sweeping historical fantasy should have an impact on its reader that penetrates far beyond the boundaries of the usual Young Adult novel. It teaches lessons about history and horsemanship, and what it really means to be ‘civilized.’—E.A. Lovitt, Amazon Hall of Fame Reviewer

The first in a trilogy, ECLIPSED BY SHADOW tells the tale of a horse-crazy teenager traveling through time on a horse. This unusual-sounding summary had me skeptical at first, but the story is surprisingly page turning, and it left me yearning for the next installment.—Rebecca Roberts, Historical Novel Society

Eclipsed by Shadow, is the first volume of the new trilogy adventure, “The Legend of the Great Horse,” which begins a journey that traces the history of horsemanship. In the story, the heroine, Meagan Roberts, is taken back through time by her horse, Promise. Meagan must survive humanity’s brutal past armed only with her knowledge ...

Our relationship with the horse predates literacy, but both tomb relics and modern records agree that most of history’s leading societies possessed the highest skill in horsemanship. Clearly there is more to a horse than meets the eye. Equestrian skill was important for prowess in battle, and advantage could be attained by advances in horse care, ...

Throughout, the book successfully blends fiction, character and plot with history and more than solely the history of horses. I am not interested in horses, but historical fiction, but I did come to appreciate the history of horses without ever being overly bored by the book containing too many details.—Tyler R. Tichelaar, Ph.D., author

The Legend of the Great Horse traces horsemanship from its earliest beginnings. The premise of the story is that Meagan, a horse-interested teenager of modern day, is whisked back in time to relive history … on horseback. As she travels in “jumps” from the earliest days of man’s association with horses, Meagan and the ...

The flying horse Pegasus is one of Western culture’s most popular and durable myths. What may be surprising to many is that the idea of a winged horse is not isolated to Greek mythology, but is a universal notion in ancient religion. The theme of my new trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse, is the ...

– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Contact: Robert Hall Tel: 617/301-2901 Email: R_Hall@MicronPress.com SADDLE-UP FOR A NEW READING ADVENTURE! October 20, 2008 | Micron Press is pleased to release the new library hardback edition of Eclipsed by Shadow, the first volume of the new historical adventure trilogy, The Legend of the Great Horse. Horseman and author John Royce has crafted a page-turning mix of ...

– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Contact: Robert Hall Tel: 617/301-2901 Email: R_Hall@MicronPress.com OCTOBER 20, 2008 | Eclipsed by Shadow, the first book of the new trilogy The Legend of the Great Horse, arrives this Summer 2008 with a fresh and original look at the colorful role of horses in civilization. Horseman and author John Royce has crafted a mix of ...

In researching Eclipsed by Shadow and the other books of the Great Horse trilogy, it became clear there is a universal equestrian literary tradition. From the ancient Greek General Xenophon’s Anabasis, one of the earliest surviving works of journalism, through chivalric literature to Romantic novels to pulp westerns and up through today, horses have been ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is a new fantasy that is sure to please fantasy fans and horse fanatics alike.—Midwest Book Review

– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (via PRWeb) – Contact: Robert Hall Tel: 617/301-2901 Email: R_Hall@MicronPress.com Mysterious Horse Legend Sends Girl on Time-Travel Journey Once there was a Great Horse–so the legends say according to one elderly woman. But Meagan cannot believe her horse, Promise, is the one the legend speaks about. Then dishonest horse trainers try to steal Promise, and Meagan’s ...

A lot has been happening with the book! The first news is that a hardback edition of Eclipsed by Shadow will be published in October. This will be a “library bound” edition (without a dust jacket) and has been re-typeset with illustrations added along with a new cover. Some site enhancements will be in operation soon, ...

The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy takes place across many historical eras, from pre-history to modern times, and research was fundamental to telling the most accurate story I could. I followed a method I found enjoyable and fascinating, and it’s one I believe brought authenticity to the work. Basically, I gathered writings from each era ...

In the Beginning, Man so angered the Lord he was cast from the Garden. In the midst of the Lord’s wrath an Angel came onto Him. The Angel asked permission to lead Mankind back again to Paradise, and wished to be given a shape to best serve Man in his exile. This love stayed the Lord’s ...

It’s hard not to notice the disdain with which some sports watchers treat Dressage. They give silly quotes to media people that produce articles like: “Olympic dressage events leave Hong Kong’s horse racing fans yawning.” Well of course they are yawning. You don’t get your Olympic thrills through eventing dressage, which is only more interesting than ...

Eclipsed by Shadow begins a horseback ride from pre-historic times back to modern day. This first volume of the trilogy The Legend of the Great Horse starts a journey through civilization. If you enjoy horses this will be a fun book because horses are the hero. The main character is a young, enthusiastic rider. The story ...

Author John Royce promises that ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is the first in a trilogy of books about the Great Horse. Though there is some graphic violence, there’s also a good read within its pages. Young adults will learn about how horses have been used throughout the ages and a good bit of world history. They’ll ...

In writing Eclipsed by Shadow, I researched the history of the original Olympic Games and their relation to horses. The original Olympics were a religious ceremony, and were as much a poetry contest as a sporting event. The equestrian events were considered an athletic poem. They were a major focus of the original Games. We have ...

Welcome to the new blog, with a new CMS platform and new dedicated site. (!) The upgrade was made after it was revealed that readers would have no way to post comments, so a new council was convened at Micron Press headquarters and the result is this new Wordpress platform. It is state of the ...

Here is a question whose answer may not be obvious: “Since we now have internal combustion engines, why bother with horses anymore?” Horses have been mankind’s transportation, and yes, today cars have replaced horses on the interstates and parking lots. However there are more horses today than ever before, so it seems this affection is universal ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW is an adventure about the love of horses that young and old will love to read. The history of the horse is only part of the book. Meagan’s interaction with the people of each era is amazing to read. The intertwining of horse history with the fantasy of winged horses makes for ...

This week the site ReadersViews is featuring Eclipsed by Shadow. (!)  Their reviewers and writers did a great job, and interested readers can check out the review by Wendy Cleveland and also for a more in-depth talk about the book with Tyler Tichelaar.

An inability to type started this author on the road to writing. By mid-semester in high school typing class I was still too slow to appear on the progress chart, which began at at a ridiculously fast 40 words-per-minute. Happily, the teacher banished me to the school library instead of redoing the chart. In the library ...

My blog is launched, but I had to put down the weeks of celebration that were just getting underway in order to attend to business. I was called into the august presence of my publisher, Micron Press, for a timely conference. We find this blog is to be promoted from its obscure position within the “Reviews ...

History truly “comes alive” as Royce turns Meagan into a living, breathing participant among historically accurate depictions of events. The dialog feels real. (”Be you a Tatar? For the nones, say be not a Tatar!”) The action never ends. (Charioteers, rampaging Mongolians!) The fear is palpable. (I won’t give it away!) And always, there are ...

ECLIPSED BY SHADOW was a magical horse story that is suitable for both teenagers and adults alike. The equine and world history aspects were fascinating and well-researched by the author … The ending left me breathless wanting to find out what time period Promise was taking Meagan to next.—Wendy Cleveland, Reader Views

LIBRARY JOURNAL RECOMMENDS “ECLIPSED BY SHADOW” MAY 15, 2008 | The following is a pre-publication review of Eclipsed by Shadow from Library Journal. » See full Review Publishing Date: Summer 2008 Reviewer: Jackie Cassada | Library Journal   “Belongs in most libraries’ adult and YA collections” Veteran horseman Royce combines history and myth with action and adventure to create a fast-paced, well-informed ...

I had a very hard time putting this book down once I started reading it … With its interesting plot, good character development, descriptive nature, and educational qualities, I would highly recommend this book to anyone.—Cayce V, Early Reader

Eclipsed by Shadow was recommended in May 2008 by Library Journal in the following pre-publication review. Jackie Cassada | Library Journal Veteran horseman Royce combines history and myth with action and adventure to create a fast-paced, well-informed tale of a flying horse and the young girl who loves her. This series opener should appeal to fans of ...

For Immediate Release Contact: Robert Hall | Micron Press 617-301-2901 ARTIST MARTI ADRIAN PRODUCES ARTWORK FOR “ECLIPSED BY SHADOW” May 16, 2008 | Micron Press is excited to present the final version of the book cover art for Eclipsed by Shadow. Popular Canadian artist Marti Adrian has delivered a stunning piece of original artwork that captures the themes ...

– FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Contact: Robert Hall Tel: 617/301-2901 Email: R_Hall@MicronPress.com MAY 28, 2008 | Eclipsed by Shadow, the first book of the new trilogy The Legend of the Great Horse, arrives this Summer 2008 with a fresh and original look at the colorful role of horses in civilization. Horseman and author John Royce has crafted a mix of ...