Into the Fire

Remembering this first novel. A comprehensive saga of horse racing at a middle echelon Thoroughbred Racetrack that takes place in the 80s. Took 8 and 1/2 years to write it through working 7 days a week at the track, homeschooling some of those years, some lay ministry at church. Time was hard to come by. There's some good writing in it, but, of course, it would've been 1/2 the size if I'd had any experience at that time writing a novel – and better written. Definitely a first novel! 

I'll say this much for it: it was authentic. I used the racetrack "language," "lingo," and terms and put a glossary in the back to define what the average non-racetracker wouldn't understand. And I do believe I captured the average lifestyle of many people who live, race, and move around with the horses. It was written for an adult audience, not for young girls who love horses, because of the lifestyle. 

On the cover is a horse we trained. His name was Cops and he loved to come from behind with a good stretch run. The jockey is local legend Gary Baze. 

Father, you told me to write a "Christian novel about horse racing." I did it, Lord. Took longer than I thought, but you kept urging me on. You have a purpose in all things. I can't ever thank you enough for that experience and every one since. Please keep me writing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.