Award-winning novelist Rusty Blackwood has announced that the ebook version of her latest novel, Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, will be available at no charge on September 10 and 11, 2026, via Amazon. This prequel to the thrilling Autumn Trilogy immerses readers in the equestrian world of professional racing, concealed secrets, and an unfaltering love, demonstrating that determination and grit can turn uncertainty into triumph.
The novel follows Cyril Landon, a deprived young Englishman born into poverty in the village of South Wood Chester, Gloucestershire, England. Despite his bleak circumstances, Landon's determination and drive lead him to a labourer's position at a local farm, opening doors to a future he never imagined. The story explores his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a horsemaster, setting the stage for the grandeur that awaits in The Perils of Autumn.
Richard Prause of Readers Favorite praised the book, stating, "It doesn't depend on manufactured plot twists to drive the story. Instead, it focuses on the simple, powerful moments of a man earning the trust of a stallion. It's a perceptive exploration of ambition and loyalty, indeed. If you appreciate character-driven historical fiction, this novel is well worth your time." Another reviewer, Asher Syed, noted, "Overall, this will be a boon for readers who are already fans of the series, and a brilliant introduction to fans-in-waiting."
Blackwood expressed her enthusiasm for the promotion: "I am pleased to offer, Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, at no charge during this timeframe. Born into extreme poverty with little hope of survival, Cyril Landon's difficult beginnings throughout England's horrific war years, will better assist readers in understanding the difficult journey that precedes the grandeur awaiting them in The Perils of Autumn. For fans of Historical Fiction, this page-turner is a must read."
The Autumn Trilogy has garnered significant acclaim. The first book, The Perils of Autumn, was named a finalist in the Fiction Romance category by the International Book Awards in 2019 and by the American Book Fest's 2019 awards program. It also received a 5-star rating from Reader's Favorite. Set primarily in the early 1970s, it centers on Autumn Leeves, a young Kentucky woman who becomes entangled with Cyril Landon, a middle-aged English equestrian master, and his successful Thoroughbred racing stable near Lexington, Kentucky. Their romance is plagued by those trying to stop it, and peril strikes when Autumn's mother dies, leaving her pregnant and fighting to save her baby.
Reviewers have lavished praise on The Perils of Autumn. Ray Simmons said, "Romance and good writing come together perfectly in Rusty Blackwood's 'The Perils of Autumn'. A great read." Trudi LoPreto added, "This book has it all and more. Please do not pass up 'The Perils of Autumn' - you will not be sorry."
Blackwood's previous works include the 5-star rated romantic fiction novel Willow's Walk, set in Ottawa, Canada, in 2003, and Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, which has been compared to Erich Segal's Love Story and Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook. Both have received rave reviews from professional reviewers.
The free ebook promotion presents an opportunity for business and technology leaders to explore a compelling work of historical fiction that delves into themes of ambition, loyalty, and perseverance—qualities that resonate in any field. The book is available at Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rusty-Blackwood/author/B0092XLBRM. More information about Blackwood's work can be found at her website, http://www.rusty-blackwood.com.
