[Review]- 'Eclipsed by Shadow' (The Legend of the Great Horse) by John Royce

This book left a lasting impression on me. I finished it in two nights. The author, John Royce, has created a wonderful epic that blends fantasy and history, a cross between Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and the Time Machine. He employs his extensive knowledge of horse history to provide us with the first adventure in the Legend of the Great Horse Trilogy. The dialogue and descriptions are skillfully written to both entertain and educate both young adults and adults.
Meagan, the primary character, is a teenage horse enthusiast. Being an animal lover myself, I felt a connection to her right away. As Meagan loses a loved one and meets a new friend, a palomino foal she names Promise, you are fascinated from the first few chapters. Promise, however, is not like other horses because she is the Great Horse, a fallen angel from Adam and Eve's time. For financial reasons, the horse is sent to a pasture until she is old enough to be ridden. Meagan meets the enigmatic Mrs. Bridgestone during this time. Mrs. Bridgestone tells Meagan about the legend of the great horse, and she believes Promise is it. Mrs. Bridgestone wants the horse for herself. After three years, Meagan rides Promise for the first time. Promise's magical, long white wings spread, transporting Meagan back in time, where she encounters cavemen, Romans, monks, knights, and other life-threatening dangers.

From the start to the heart-pounding cliffhanger, Eclipsed By Shadow is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure. In the first book of the trilogy, the author did an excellent job of blending history and fantasy. Readers who enjoy horse books and fantasy adventures will enjoy this. After finishing the last page, you'll be eagerly anticipating the next installment. -- ★★★★½