Stardust Stables: A Star Is Born

If you like horses, or know some younger reader who is horse-mad

The first of a new series focusing on a group of teenaged equestrians that are learning their craft in a stable that provides horses and riders for the film industry. Sable Hamilton managed to keep the horse and horse-related elements honest and accurate while still providing readers with a story that is engaging and entertaining.

Kammi is a well-regarded rider, and has been invited to join the team at Stardust Stables for a 6 week working student program. She’ll learn the ins and outs of trick and stunt riding (also called vaulting) and may even have the opportunity to audition for stunt riding in film. Stardust is struggling, a rival has opened with a big splash down the road, and they are steadily losing bookings to it.

Kammi arrives and makes friends fairly easily with everyone, but there are rivalries, jealousies and a TON of hard work. And, as this is Kammi’s first time away from home, she also is battling with homesickness and missing her own horse and parents.

The dynamics between the students are wonderful, al feeling very honest and appropriate, with jealousies and snappy moments mixing in to add to the realism. The relationships that are portrayed with students to horses, particularly Kammi and her chats with Magic are honest and real: meet any rider with their horse and there are conversations, verbal and nonverbal that are constantly happening: horses are not without personalities.

From learning new skills to discovering and overcoming difficulties with people you work with or compete with, there are wonderful moments here, all well-detailed and described. With action, friendship, film stars and plenty of horses to go round, the six weeks fly by for Kammi, and readers will enjoy the quick pacing and realistic characters. If you like horses, or know some younger reader (target ages 9 – 12 but easily enjoyed by older) who is horse-mad, this is a great book and start to a series.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.