Award-winning novelist Rusty Blackwood has announced the release of her latest novel, Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, a prequel to her acclaimed Autumn series. The book delves into the early life of Cyril Landon, a character central to the trilogy, tracing his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in Gloucestershire, England, to his rise as a celebrated horsemaster.
Set in the village of South Wood Chester, the story follows Cyril Landon, born into a world of deprivation and limited opportunity. His chance encounter with a labourer's position at a local farm opens a door to a future he never imagined. Through determination and grit, Landon transforms his life, eventually becoming the respected equestrian master seen in The Perils of Autumn. Blackwood noted, 'This trip down memory lane was a journey thoroughly enjoyed on my behalf, as it opened a well-defined observation into Cyril Landon's early life.'
Reviewers have praised the novel for its character-driven narrative. Richard Prause of Readers' Favorite commented, '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.' Another reviewer, Asher Syed, stated, 'This will be a boon for readers who are already fans of the series, and a brilliant introduction to fans-in-waiting.'
The new book is available at Amazon at Rusty Blackwood's Amazon page. Blackwood's earlier work, The Perils Of Autumn, was named a finalist in the Fiction Romance category by the International Book Awards in 2019 and received a 5-star rating from Reader's Favorite. That novel centers on Autumn Leeves, a young Kentucky woman who becomes entangled with Cyril Landon and jockey Duff Taylor, whose dark secret threatens their world.
Blackwood's other novels include Willow's Walk, a gripping tale set in Ottawa, and Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, a sweeping romantic saga. Both have earned 5-star reviews. More information on all of Blackwood's work is available on her website at rusty-blackwood.com.
The release of Before The Grandeur offers readers a deeper understanding of a beloved character and enriches the Autumn series. As Blackwood expressed, 'It is my hope you will enjoy the experience you will have and applaud this character that has come to mean so very much to me.'
