Surrendering the Reins by Les W Graham

Britchin Books #2

by Les Graham

The much anticipated sequel to "Jude's Gentle Giants" is here 'Surrendering the Reins. In "Jude's Gentle Giants" we met Jude Bonner, a farm boy from Belgrade, MN with a dream of raising his own team of Percheron draft horses. His story continues in "Surrendering the Reins." As Jude grows older, he sets out on a new journey dealing with the challenges of life, love and loss. Jude learns to rely fully on God as he faces the joys and difficulties of adult life in his marriage, work and health. Throughout it all, his horses Pete and Joe remain by his side as they pull the heaviest load of all!

Paperback

First published April 15, 2015

About the author

Les Graham is married to his wife Kathy of 35 years and has 3 grown children and 6 grandkids. He resides in New London, Mn and has a very small hobby farm.
He has owned Percherons Draft Horses for 25 years.
He owns Radiant Outfitters which designs and sell radiant floor heat.

Reviews

[Amanda Lauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Les Graham's folksy style of writing, which to me is reminiscent of days gone by. Like the first book, I felt like this would have sat better with me if it had been set in the '60s instead of the '90s and 2000s. The way the people talked, especially the youth, and interacted didn't feel true to this day and age. That being said, it's a nice story and the end will bring you to tears, so overall, well done!

[Lisa Kearns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Les Graham's Surrendering the Reins is the next chapter in the story of Jude Bonner and his Percheron horses Pete and Joe (the first book being Jude's Gentle Giants). Jude graduates high school, heads off to college and then marries his sweetheart, Judy. As with the first book, Jude relies on his faith in God and his supportive family to guide him through the many decisions and challenges in his life. While written for a young adult audience, this book has some darker subjects and sadness that may not be suitable for younger children. But overall, the strong Christian themes and family values throughout the book will appeal to anyone. And of course, Pete and Joe are charming and smart and beautiful and any horse lover will enjoy visiting them again.

Like in the first book, this book has beautiful black and white illustrations by Mike Bregel to go along with the story. Each picture has a small hidden cross in it, and I found myself searching for it even before admiring the picture itself. I give this book 4.5 stars.

The author sent me a complimentary copy of his book, in exchange for writing a review. I wasn't asked to leave a positive review, nor was I paid or otherwise compensated for reviewing this book.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kids and I loved this book! My kids, ages 11, 13, and 15, really loved the horses, and a particular new character that was introduced in this book. We enjoyed the rural Minnesota setting and the adventures and experiences the author brought us through. It had several laugh out loud moments, and several box of tissue moments. What I liked best in this book was the development of a relationship and seeing a godly couple that enjoy their marriage and friendship. I love that our kids can have books that aren't overly focused on romance, but show a picture of a healthy, playful, loving, godly marriage. It was also good to see some of how they worked together through some hard times. There's a heavy theme in this book, but dealt with in a graceful, faith-centered way. Just make sure to read, "Jude's Gentle Giants" first!

[Judy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book by Mr Graham. I couldn't stop with the first one as I was so interested in the continuation of Jude Bonner's story. Every emotion that could be felt was prominent in this book; courage, faith, love, sadness, devotion. I am so glad that these books were written. Mr. Graham is a wonderful writer and I am so glad he wrote these books.