Horse by Geraldine Brooks

I loved this historical fiction novel. It’s based on the true story of the record-breaking thoroughbred, Lexington. It was interesting to learn about horseracing and the history of the sport. The author transports the reader into each of her scenes. With Brooks’ meticulous research, I felt as if I’d traveled back in time. The writing is rich and effortlessly beautiful. Often, I found myself pausing to consider her words. The characters are complex and unique.

Kentucky, 1850. An enslaved groom named Jarret forges an unbreakable bond with a bay foal. The horse wins several record-setting victories before the nation erupts in civil war.

NYC, 1954. Martha Jackson is a gallery owner who discovers a 19th century painting with mysterious origins.

Washington, DC 2019. Jess, a scientist for the Smithsonian, is studying the bones of an old stallion. Theo, an art historian, finds a discarded treasure. The two have a chance encounter that leads to a joint discovery of lost history.

Trust me, this is a book that’s hard to put down!