Book I: Eclipsed by Shadow, begins the journey of a modern-day teenager traveling through history ... on horseback. Young Meagan Roberts discovers her new foal is a Great Horse of legend, who has come to carry its rider into the darkness of history.

The title won mainstream critical acclaim and national awards, including the Eric Hoffer Award for Young Adult Fiction and the Mom’s Choice Award for best Young Adult Fantasy.

The journey begins in prehistoric times when man’s interest in the horse was strictly culinary, and follows with a harrowing ride through antiquity as Meagan struggles to survive the infamous thrills of Roman chariot racing, the hordes of Genghis Khan, and a season of chivalry among castles, Tournaments and knights.”

Vivid writing and colorful characters (both two- and four-legged) create a fresh, page-turning adventure that educates as it entertains. Library Journal recommends the book: “Veteran horseman Royce combines history and myth with action and adventure to create a fast-paced, well-informed tale...” and other critics have ponied up their praise: “Sure to Please!” (Midwest Book Review), “Lots of Horsepower Here!” (Free Lance-Star) and “One of those works you will remember forever.” (2009 Reader Views Literary Award review)

"Thrilling and intelligent fantasy..." ~ Emily Hinton, US Review of Books

"John Royce introduces us to one of those works you will remember forever..." ~ Danelle Drake, Reader Views

"Quite a Ride!" ~ Shirley Johnson, Bookwatch

"Veteran horseman Royce combines history and myth with action and adventure to create a fast-paced, well-informed tale..." ~ Jackie Cassada, Library Journal

GRREAT READ(Gifted and Reluctant Readers Explore Amazing Titles)

"Great plot and character development, wonderful descriptions of equine history ... will leave you gnawing at the bit for more." ~ Rebecca Roberts, Historical Novel Society

"LOTS OF HORSEPOWER HERE!" ~ L. Hutchinson, Free Lance-Star

"Sweeping historical fantasy ... penetrates far beyond the boundaries of the usual YA novel." ~ E.A. Lovitt, Top Amazon Reviewer

"An adventure about the love of horses young and old will love to read..." ~ Allison King, Rebecca's Reads

Home (California, USA – 2001)
The story begins in modern-day California, USA

Prey (North America – 20,000 B.C.)
The adventure begins…

Escort (Black Sea – 700 B.C.)
Inside an ancient Scythian tomb

Savage Nation (Rome – 100 A.D.)
Close encounter with an Emperor's chariot racing stables

Damsel (Central Asia – 1240 A.D.)
Riding with the Mongolian hordes of Genghis Khan