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| Love the cover! |
March 2016, Arrow, 416 pages, Paperback, Review copy
Summary from Sainsbury's Entertainment who provided the book for review
After years of training, horse-mad Flick has finally achieved her
dream of becoming one of the few female blacksmiths in the country.
Her
first job is in Talyton St George. The little cottage on the green
where she is staying is idyllic, and it feels like the fresh start she
needs. But she soon finds she is having to work overtime to prove her
abilities to the not-so-welcoming locals.
One person very much on
her side though is Robbie Salterton. He’s a bit of a local celebrity – a
handsome stunt rider who does charity work in his spare time – and he
seems to be going out of his way to look out for Flick. But is he just
being friendly or does he see Flick as something more?
Despite swearing off men, Flick can’t help wanting to find out . . .
Nayu's thoughts
The only reason
this wonderful read full of hope and determination doesn't get full
marks is because Flick doesn't spill the beans on someone's
infidelity, despite wanting to. I won't say any more than that or the
story will be spoiled, but I didn't like how she kept quiet despite
hating the persom simply because a friend asked her too. Some things
are unforgivable in my eyes. Rant over!
I was intrigued with Flick
because I've never read about a female farrier. I always think a
blacksmith is an admiral profession-don't despair, I know they are
different to farriers. I've heard of a female blacksmith themed
anime, so jumped at the chance of reading this book to find out what
prejudices Flick has to endure because she is a rare breed. It broke
my heart just how hurt she was by her last boyfriend, and how the
hurt is sort of continuous through not exactly her fault. Thankfully
she meets some welcoming people who balance out the horrid ones.
I
adore Louise who is determined to give her son the best life she can
despite her husband not exactly accepting their son's special needs.
I loved how motherly Sally-Ann is, how she was a contrast to Flick's
own parents. Yes the romance was mostly sweet too, for those who are
interested. I was besotted with mischievous Maisie who kept making me
smile with her unintended interruptions. Then there's the animal cast,
who have distinct personalities including grouchy ones and ones ruled
by their stomachs to provide light relief and worry in equal measure.
I learnt a lot about being a farrier, how injuries are part of the
job, how necessary it is for you to have a way with horses and ponies
who can help win their owners round when they behaved appropriately
as Flick tended to them. Sure she makes mistakes which had me wanting
to bash her head on her own anvil, but she learns to let go of her fears,
take risks that don't seem sensible, amd follow her heart. I truly
hope there will be more books featuring her as the protagonist, as I
want her to truly be free from the shackles of her ex.
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