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PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS

• January 2009: Historical Novel Society

• November 2008: Excerpt from Book

• October 2008: New Hardback Edition


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AUTHOR INFORMATION
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Mysterious Horse Legend_

New Reading Adventure!.


REVIEWS for Eclipsed by Shadow

_Library Journal

_Midwest Book Review

_Free Lance-Star

_Rebeccas Reads

_Reader Views

_Heartland Reviews

_The Publishing Contrarian

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Q & A: FACT SHEETS

_.-Questions & Answers

_. -Interesting Book Facts

Q&A: INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT "ECLIPSED BY SHADOW"

-1- _Exciting new Historical Fiction

Eclipsed by Shadow and the rest of The Legend of the Great Horse trilogy is a fresh, new historical fiction adventure. A product of over ten years research, the story spans a total of fourteen historical cultures. Each period is well-researched to accurately present the development of horsemanship.

The periods in the first volume of the trilogy include prehistoric man, the nomadic cultures of both the Scythians and Mongolians, ancient Rome and the Middle Ages. Next summer (2009) the second volume will be published that carries the heroine to the early Renaissance and the conquest of the New World, The "Sun King" Louis XIV's Court of Versailles, and early 19th century England.

-2- _Author's extensive experience in horses benefits his writing

The depth of knowledge present in John Royce's writings about horses was gained through almost three decades of competition both as an amateur and professional. The author rode in Western events before participating in Combined Training and Jumpers, learning horsemanship from the ground up, from trail riding to the sports arena.

Mr. Royce was the founder of the first University Equestrian Team at the University of Texas, and became a trainer and coach after a stint working as a national promoter of the sport. This diverse background equips the author with knowledge to write about horses and horsemanship in an entertaining and accurate fashion.

The series is written for all levels of interest and experience, and contains accurate and solid information, making it an excellent choice for any horse-enthusiast. The compelling story opens up the fascinating but sometimes impenetrable-seeming world of horses to even to the most distant outsider.

-3- _Main character is an portrait of modern young riders


The teenage Meagan Roberts is the distillation of observations made by the author during his time as a coach, so her character reflects, to me, the qualities that horsemanship develops. These equestrian traits include such virtues as the ability to plan, discipline, responsibility, empathy, sportsmanship, analysis and strategic long-term thinking, facing one's fears, and a positive mental attitude.

Horseback riding was the foundation of classical education for several millennium as the best training for leadership. Eclipsed by Shadow begins a coming-of-age journey that illustrates a practical application of horsemanship skills.

-4- _History is more than what is told by"the winners"

Eclipsed by Shadow challenges the cliché which accepts a common understanding of history made from certain points of view. If some of history's narratives have been limited to a rosy glow on its patrons, there is ample evidence to portray other viewpoints. Journals and diaries, letters and lawsuits all give voice to the day-to-day realities of life as lived by the vast majority. These glimpses round out our view of history, and often provide its most compelling testimony.

Seldom-seen viewpoints of people from our past come to fascinating life in the pages of Eclipsed by Shadow. Since horses and their care involve all levels of economic status, following the history of horsemanship gives a unique look at cultures throughout civilization.

-5- _An excellent book for both gifted and reluctant readers

The compelling story and scenes of history draw the reader into the distant past to experience history, and entertains with a colorful series of characters and scenes as it educates about the horse and our ancient partnership.

The title has been honored with inclusion as a GRREAT Read (Gifted and Reluctant Readers Explore Great Titles) by Heartland Reviews. Gifted readers will enjoy a colorful, well-written literary experience that will enhance their understanding of history (and horses!) while providing a fresh and unique read. The quality writing, enjoyable subjects and compelling storyline also offer a positive and rewarding experience for even a "reluctant" reader.