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Mare's Nest
From award-winning, New York Times bestselling author, Lesley Kagen, a mostly true story.
"It's hard not to feel at points in Mare's Nest that author Lesley Kagen isn't talking about you. Add in the fact that not a parent in the world hasn't had her heart in her throat as she watched her child compete, and you can't put it down."
---Jo Anne Normile, bestselling author of Saving Baby: How One Woman's Love For a Racehorse Led to Her Redemption
"The last thing in the world I wanted was for my daughter to climb onto the back of a horse. Riding is dangerous. Not only physically, but fiscally. Most of all...emotionally. I had the scars to prove it."
Annie Bellamy is a woman struggling to come to terms with her painful past. In her daughter, Teddy, she sees the opportunity for redemption. The chance to balance the scales by giving her girl the support and nurturance she feels she didn't receive from her own mother. What Annie didn't plan on was her daughter falling head-over-heels in love with horses the same way she had as a youngster. The buying, selling, and showing of horses had led to the bankruptcy and break-up of her family, and perhaps, her mother's death. Annie vows not to allow history to repeat itself. Yet, her Teddy's persistence and talent are not easily denied.
Torn between her distressing childhood and her daughter’s passion, concerned about how the astronomical cost of the sport will impact her son and husband, Annie embarks on a journey through the Midwestern horse world, where she and Teddy are swept up in a "saddle soap opera" that she couldn't have imagined. Crooked trainers, ruthless barn owners, shady veterinarians, and viciously competitive show moms lie in wait for the unsuspecting twosome. Too late, Annie realizes that her unrelenting pursuit to make her daughter's dreams come true will end up mirroring her own troubled past unless she finds the courage to stand up to her demons.
Based on a true story, MARE'S NEST is a wrenchingly funny, poignant, and ultimately uplifting tale about mothers and daughters, horses, and the redemptive power of love.
Lesley Kagen is an actress, voice-over talent, former restaurateur, sought-after speaker, and award-winning New York Times bestselling author of seven novels. Her works has been translated into seven languages. She's the mother of two and grandmother of two. She lives in a hundred-year-old farmhouse in a small Wisconsin town.
"It's hard not to feel at points in Mare's Nest that author Lesley Kagen isn't talking about you. Add in the fact that not a parent in the world hasn't had her heart in her throat as she watched her child compete, and you can't put it down."
---Jo Anne Normile, bestselling author of Saving Baby: How One Woman's Love For a Racehorse Led to Her Redemption
"The last thing in the world I wanted was for my daughter to climb onto the back of a horse. Riding is dangerous. Not only physically, but fiscally. Most of all...emotionally. I had the scars to prove it."
Annie Bellamy is a woman struggling to come to terms with her painful past. In her daughter, Teddy, she sees the opportunity for redemption. The chance to balance the scales by giving her girl the support and nurturance she feels she didn't receive from her own mother. What Annie didn't plan on was her daughter falling head-over-heels in love with horses the same way she had as a youngster. The buying, selling, and showing of horses had led to the bankruptcy and break-up of her family, and perhaps, her mother's death. Annie vows not to allow history to repeat itself. Yet, her Teddy's persistence and talent are not easily denied.
Torn between her distressing childhood and her daughter’s passion, concerned about how the astronomical cost of the sport will impact her son and husband, Annie embarks on a journey through the Midwestern horse world, where she and Teddy are swept up in a "saddle soap opera" that she couldn't have imagined. Crooked trainers, ruthless barn owners, shady veterinarians, and viciously competitive show moms lie in wait for the unsuspecting twosome. Too late, Annie realizes that her unrelenting pursuit to make her daughter's dreams come true will end up mirroring her own troubled past unless she finds the courage to stand up to her demons.
Based on a true story, MARE'S NEST is a wrenchingly funny, poignant, and ultimately uplifting tale about mothers and daughters, horses, and the redemptive power of love.
Lesley Kagen is an actress, voice-over talent, former restaurateur, sought-after speaker, and award-winning New York Times bestselling author of seven novels. Her works has been translated into seven languages. She's the mother of two and grandmother of two. She lives in a hundred-year-old farmhouse in a small Wisconsin town.
- GenresHorses
466 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2012
13 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Kagen
12 books684 followersLesley Kagen is a mother of two, a grandmother of two, an actress, narrator, speaker, essayist, and the award winning, New York Times bestselling author of ten novels, including her newest, EVERY NOW AND THEN. She lives in a charming small town in Wisconsin in a hundred-fifty-year-old farm house with her dog, Gracie.
More about Lesley and reading guides can be found at: www.lesleykagen.com and www.facebook.com/LesleyKagenBooks.
More about Lesley and reading guides can be found at: www.lesleykagen.com and www.facebook.com/LesleyKagenBooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 4, 2017
My fourth Lesley Kagen read and it pains me to give one of my favorite authors a low rating. Especially because "Mare's Nest" is her most biographical to date. Kagen brings her readers into the inner circle of the horse circuit. A world which seems as competitive and cutthroat as the cheerleading or figure skating world. A place where at every corner, someone is ready to backstab and cheat.
This is a mother and daughter tale that is told through the eyes of mother, Annie and her much adored daughter,Teddy. It would be wrong to just label Annie as a helicopter parent when it appears that she becomes obsessed or consumed by the need to make all of her daughter's dreams come true. I am not sure exactly what words I should use to describe Annie and Teddy's relationship. Unhealthy? Controlling? But then doesn't that make me(as the reader) seem judgemental?
The book starts with a horse riding accident that situates Teddy into a precarious situation and Annie desperate to find answers. A perfect cliffhanger to set up the story BUT what then occurs is chapter upon chapter of the past, including Annie's own troubled childhood and unfilled horseback riding dreams. When Kagen leads back to the big event it fizzled out into absolutely nothing. I found myself quite bored at the way in which all secondary characters in the story ended up being so ruthless and constantly taking advantage of Annie and Teddy. I also wondered when her husband would actually be supportive or tell Annie to be less all consuming. Despite one brief episode the guy was a dud!
But maybe that is just me, perhaps there is a part of me that became bogged down in so many other elements that I fail to see what Lesley Kagen wanted me to see. I see a few high ratings and I am sure those readers were able to connect with it in a way that truly escapes me. Whatever the case, I am truly confident that my next Lesley Kagen read will be a much better experience.
This is a mother and daughter tale that is told through the eyes of mother, Annie and her much adored daughter,Teddy. It would be wrong to just label Annie as a helicopter parent when it appears that she becomes obsessed or consumed by the need to make all of her daughter's dreams come true. I am not sure exactly what words I should use to describe Annie and Teddy's relationship. Unhealthy? Controlling? But then doesn't that make me(as the reader) seem judgemental?
The book starts with a horse riding accident that situates Teddy into a precarious situation and Annie desperate to find answers. A perfect cliffhanger to set up the story BUT what then occurs is chapter upon chapter of the past, including Annie's own troubled childhood and unfilled horseback riding dreams. When Kagen leads back to the big event it fizzled out into absolutely nothing. I found myself quite bored at the way in which all secondary characters in the story ended up being so ruthless and constantly taking advantage of Annie and Teddy. I also wondered when her husband would actually be supportive or tell Annie to be less all consuming. Despite one brief episode the guy was a dud!
But maybe that is just me, perhaps there is a part of me that became bogged down in so many other elements that I fail to see what Lesley Kagen wanted me to see. I see a few high ratings and I am sure those readers were able to connect with it in a way that truly escapes me. Whatever the case, I am truly confident that my next Lesley Kagen read will be a much better experience.
February 26, 2013
First I am going to start by saying that I love Lesley Kagen, as a person and as an author. There is an authenticity to her writing that few can rival. She writes stories that grab your heart and keeps you turning pages. She has a talent that cannot be ignored.
"The last thing in the world I wanted was for my daughter to climb onto the back of a horse. Riding is dangerous. Not only physically, but fiscally. Most of all...emotionally. I had the scars to prove it."
Kagen opens herself up in her newest novel Mare's Nest. Mare's Nest is based on a true story that captures not only the complexities of mother/daughter relationships, but also a mothers desire to give to her child an experience better than her own. This story is really a universal story about parents undying love for their children. About every parent wanting what is best for their children, trying to avoid making the same mistakes their parents made. The Mare's Nest is simply...love.
Annie Bellamy is determined to do better than her parent did. Annie saw her childhood ruined by bankruptcy and her parents dissolved marriage, both due to horses. Although Annie loved horses she was going to shelter her daughter from the evils that horse world contains. She was not going to let her daughter Teddy ride. Period. But then Teddy fell in love with horses, just like Annie did years before. Annie tried to hang tough and keep to her no riding policy, but her desire to give her daughter the world quickly dissolved her resolve. Teddy was talented, she was in love with all things horses and was going to ride. If only the story was so trouble-free and happy. With villains, shameful horse practices, disappointments and heartbreaks this novel takes you on a journey of love, friendship and recovery. With Kagen's brilliant voice and great dialogue you find yourself once again engrossed in an amazing, well written story that is both emotional and exciting. Do not pass up reading this 5 STAR novel.
"The last thing in the world I wanted was for my daughter to climb onto the back of a horse. Riding is dangerous. Not only physically, but fiscally. Most of all...emotionally. I had the scars to prove it."
Kagen opens herself up in her newest novel Mare's Nest. Mare's Nest is based on a true story that captures not only the complexities of mother/daughter relationships, but also a mothers desire to give to her child an experience better than her own. This story is really a universal story about parents undying love for their children. About every parent wanting what is best for their children, trying to avoid making the same mistakes their parents made. The Mare's Nest is simply...love.
Annie Bellamy is determined to do better than her parent did. Annie saw her childhood ruined by bankruptcy and her parents dissolved marriage, both due to horses. Although Annie loved horses she was going to shelter her daughter from the evils that horse world contains. She was not going to let her daughter Teddy ride. Period. But then Teddy fell in love with horses, just like Annie did years before. Annie tried to hang tough and keep to her no riding policy, but her desire to give her daughter the world quickly dissolved her resolve. Teddy was talented, she was in love with all things horses and was going to ride. If only the story was so trouble-free and happy. With villains, shameful horse practices, disappointments and heartbreaks this novel takes you on a journey of love, friendship and recovery. With Kagen's brilliant voice and great dialogue you find yourself once again engrossed in an amazing, well written story that is both emotional and exciting. Do not pass up reading this 5 STAR novel.
November 20, 2012
Right up front I'll tell you that I know Lesley Kagen and admire her as a person and an author. I don't however, give positive reviews unless I really love a book.
Mare's Nest is based on a real story; a fictional account of the experiences Lesley and her family had when her daughter was training and competing in the local horse world. When I first starting reading the novel I found it intriguing, but I also had trouble connecting with the fact that families spend tens of thousands of dollars each year on what, to me, is essentially a hobby. Very soon within the book, Kagen does address this issue, many times in fact, in a way that even my frugal heart eventually understood.
Once I was on board with the story, I found it fascinating to see what went on behind the scenes with the parents, trainers, judges, and barn owners. Emotions flared and there was backbiting and petty jealousy and sabotage. All the drama of the TV show Dance Moms, and then some.
I don't want to give away the story, but I would recommend this book to anyone who is an animal lover, or wants an inside look at the world of riding competitions. The mother/daughter theme will resonate with female readers as well.
Book clubs will have a lot to talk about, and there are reader questions and an author interview at the back of the book to guide in discussions. Highly recommended.
Mare's Nest is based on a real story; a fictional account of the experiences Lesley and her family had when her daughter was training and competing in the local horse world. When I first starting reading the novel I found it intriguing, but I also had trouble connecting with the fact that families spend tens of thousands of dollars each year on what, to me, is essentially a hobby. Very soon within the book, Kagen does address this issue, many times in fact, in a way that even my frugal heart eventually understood.
Once I was on board with the story, I found it fascinating to see what went on behind the scenes with the parents, trainers, judges, and barn owners. Emotions flared and there was backbiting and petty jealousy and sabotage. All the drama of the TV show Dance Moms, and then some.
I don't want to give away the story, but I would recommend this book to anyone who is an animal lover, or wants an inside look at the world of riding competitions. The mother/daughter theme will resonate with female readers as well.
Book clubs will have a lot to talk about, and there are reader questions and an author interview at the back of the book to guide in discussions. Highly recommended.
November 16, 2012
Annie Bellamy loves horses. She grew up showing horses and the buying, selling, and showing of horses led to the bankruptcy and break-up of her family, and perhaps, her mother's death. She now is trying to come to grips with her past as her own daughter, Teddy, falls in love with horses the same way she did. She vows that history will not repeat itself. Teddy's talent cannot be denied. She connects with these horses like Annie never did.
Her daughter's passion does come with a hefty price tag and she wonders how that will impact her family. She also never imagined the ruthless barn owners, the crooked trainers or the viciously competitive show moms they would meet on this journey in the horse world or "saddle soap opera". Annie realizes that making her daughter's dreams come true is going to take courage to stand up to all those around them wanting them to fail.
Dollycas's Thoughts
A captivating and inspiring story of a mother's love and the special bonds of mother and daughter. Based on a true story, Lesley takes us into world of showing horses. What happens behind those barn doors and in the practice rings. The greed, the jealousy, the corruption, she tells all.
Mare's Nest is a term defined as "an extraordinarily complicated situation". That's what the horse world is, a series of extraordinarily complicated situations. I love the way Kagen writes with heart and humor and the strength she gives her characters. Annie and Teddy had quite an uphill battle and a few missteps but it made each of them stronger and their relationship stronger as well.
As a mother with two daughters myself this book touched my heart. It also made me thankful they played volleyball, basketball and softball. The competitive parents are still there, the coaches did have their favorites, but the equipment can be put in a closet or the garage in the off season. A horse needs care year round and my heart would break every time one got hurt or would have to be sold.
You do not need any knowledge of horses or the competitions involved in showing a horse to love this book. I sure didn't and I absolutely loved this story. It is a powerful story that every mother or daughter would enjoy. It is a truly awesome book! Definitely worth 10 stars!!!
Her daughter's passion does come with a hefty price tag and she wonders how that will impact her family. She also never imagined the ruthless barn owners, the crooked trainers or the viciously competitive show moms they would meet on this journey in the horse world or "saddle soap opera". Annie realizes that making her daughter's dreams come true is going to take courage to stand up to all those around them wanting them to fail.
Dollycas's Thoughts
A captivating and inspiring story of a mother's love and the special bonds of mother and daughter. Based on a true story, Lesley takes us into world of showing horses. What happens behind those barn doors and in the practice rings. The greed, the jealousy, the corruption, she tells all.
Mare's Nest is a term defined as "an extraordinarily complicated situation". That's what the horse world is, a series of extraordinarily complicated situations. I love the way Kagen writes with heart and humor and the strength she gives her characters. Annie and Teddy had quite an uphill battle and a few missteps but it made each of them stronger and their relationship stronger as well.
As a mother with two daughters myself this book touched my heart. It also made me thankful they played volleyball, basketball and softball. The competitive parents are still there, the coaches did have their favorites, but the equipment can be put in a closet or the garage in the off season. A horse needs care year round and my heart would break every time one got hurt or would have to be sold.
You do not need any knowledge of horses or the competitions involved in showing a horse to love this book. I sure didn't and I absolutely loved this story. It is a powerful story that every mother or daughter would enjoy. It is a truly awesome book! Definitely worth 10 stars!!!
September 11, 2016
I was a bit disappointed with this one. I was bothered by all of the typos, missing words, grammatical errors, and different names and/or spellings of names of the same characters in the same paragraphs. This one was self-published and the lack of editing was apparent. And after having been so enthralled with the exploits of the O'Malley sisters in Whistling In The Dark and Good Graces, I have to say that not one of the characters in this one was at all likable. They were not as well developed as they could have been. It was definitely more of a memoir than a novel, and it read that way. I have probably been in as many barns as Annie Bellamy and her daughter Teddy, and I did enjoy trying to figure out who her trainers were based on. I am even quite sure that I could identify a couple of them. The setting in Southeastern Wisconsin is real. And all of the horrors they experienced are also very real. It really made me stop to think about what I had probably put my own mother through over the decades of being involved in this sport. Still, the self-entitled owners, greedy ruthless trainers, and overall lack of concern for the welfare of the horses is all too accurate in the horse show world. I am not so sure that non-riders would be able to relate to the characters. Maybe it was just too real for me, that the bright spot or happy ending that I was waiting for never came.
December 3, 2012
Mare's Nest is my first introduction to Lesley Kagen's books. I have been wanting to read one of her books for a while and I wasn't disappointed! I participated in horse back riding lessons as a teenager and have relatives (in which I will be passing this along to) involved in the "horse world." This unique story hit home for me.
Annie Bellamy is the mother to daughter Teddy and son Louie. She is also the wife of Pete. She is a protective mother who fears for the safety of her children. Outstandingly, Annie is conscientious and avoids passing on her feelings of fear/anxiety to her children. Struggling to resolve her past feelings of loss, Annie begins to see that her childhood passion for horses may have been the cause of her parent’s bankruptcy.
Annie never imagined that her daughter Teddy, would also fall in love with horses. Teddy’s growing passion and talent in riding is evident; therefore Annie is unable refuse her. Many in the 'horse world' community seem to be out for money, rather than the joy of riding. I was inspired by Annie’s commitment to foster confidence in her daughter. Despite all the setbacks, Annie remained positive and ensured Teddy’s dreams would be reached.
Thank You, this is my first goodreads giveaway!
Annie Bellamy is the mother to daughter Teddy and son Louie. She is also the wife of Pete. She is a protective mother who fears for the safety of her children. Outstandingly, Annie is conscientious and avoids passing on her feelings of fear/anxiety to her children. Struggling to resolve her past feelings of loss, Annie begins to see that her childhood passion for horses may have been the cause of her parent’s bankruptcy.
Annie never imagined that her daughter Teddy, would also fall in love with horses. Teddy’s growing passion and talent in riding is evident; therefore Annie is unable refuse her. Many in the 'horse world' community seem to be out for money, rather than the joy of riding. I was inspired by Annie’s commitment to foster confidence in her daughter. Despite all the setbacks, Annie remained positive and ensured Teddy’s dreams would be reached.
Thank You, this is my first goodreads giveaway!
December 13, 2012
This may be Lesley Kagen’s most important novel. It is based on a true story, her own story.
I am a longtime fan of Lesley Kagen and all of her books. I am not a horse-person, because my life never offered the opportunity. However, I learned much from this very well written book.
In this special novel, Lesley takes us into the world of horses. She writes not only about caring for horses and riding them. She also delves into horse training, and the arena of showing and competing. Lesley further explores and exposes the effects of this upon the people involved, and their relationships.
Annie, the main character, deals with her own lifelong issues of anxiety and struggles with depression. As a mother, she tries to protect her daughter, Teddy, from the pains of the world, including the arena of show horses. Teddy is determined to follow in her mother’s footsteps. The story of Annie, Teddy, and their relationship is beautifully told. The layered story of the world of competitive horse showing was fascinating and very real.
This is a most brave and beautiful novel. I highly recommend Lesley’s Mare’s Nest, as I do all of her novels. She is wonderful.
I am a longtime fan of Lesley Kagen and all of her books. I am not a horse-person, because my life never offered the opportunity. However, I learned much from this very well written book.
In this special novel, Lesley takes us into the world of horses. She writes not only about caring for horses and riding them. She also delves into horse training, and the arena of showing and competing. Lesley further explores and exposes the effects of this upon the people involved, and their relationships.
Annie, the main character, deals with her own lifelong issues of anxiety and struggles with depression. As a mother, she tries to protect her daughter, Teddy, from the pains of the world, including the arena of show horses. Teddy is determined to follow in her mother’s footsteps. The story of Annie, Teddy, and their relationship is beautifully told. The layered story of the world of competitive horse showing was fascinating and very real.
This is a most brave and beautiful novel. I highly recommend Lesley’s Mare’s Nest, as I do all of her novels. She is wonderful.
March 22, 2015
I wanted to love this book, but I didn't even like it. I love Lesley Kagen's other books, especially "Whistling in the Dark." That's a book I recommend all the time and buy copies of whenever I see it to give people. I think one of the many problems with this book in contrast was that it wasn't told through the child's voice. Instead she told it through the mother's and she came across as very whiny and entitled to me. This book definitely could have benefited from some more editing. It was way too long. I understand she was trying to make a point by sharing details about each and every barn they switched to, but the same point could have been made by condensing those parts. It felt more like a long, boring, bitch fest from a girlfriend who always goes on and on about her problems when she doesn't really have real problems. I know it's an autobiographical novel, but since Mrs. Kagen made it a novel, she should have treated the writing and editing more as such as opposed to non-fiction.
March 6, 2013
What is it with this book?? I am a huge Lesley Kagen fan; loved her previous novels. But this one seems so hastily slapped together. I'm only a few chapters in, but all the typos, missing words, etc. are distracting and embarrassing! Some sentences make absolutely no sense. Did no one proofread this before going to print? I am guessing this is self-published as I see no publisher identification on the book. The story is fine, and I'm interested because of my own mother/daughter history in the horse showing world. But to read a book so sloppily produced just undermines the story. I sincerely hope this author returns to the quality of her previous works.
OK, so I finished the book. I did enjoy the story, mainly because of my personal history with the topic. But the editing/proofreading was a downright disaster.
OK, so I finished the book. I did enjoy the story, mainly because of my personal history with the topic. But the editing/proofreading was a downright disaster.
November 26, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Being a fan of Lesley's previous books, it was fascinating to read one that was mostly based on her own experiences. It gave some insight into her and what makes her the excellent writer that she is. I related to the story on a few different levels. Having been in love with horses and pleasure riding as a child and teen, it was interesting to read about the goings-on in the world of competitive riding. Lesley makes you feel what Teddy feels as she grows and advances through the ranks. I also connected to Annie, Teddy's mom as she dealt with issues in her past and present. It was a good read!
December 10, 2012
This captivating and inspiring story of a mother's love and the special bonds of mother and daughter is based on a true story. Lesley Kagen takes us into the world of horses- the judges, the other parents, the barn owners, the trainers. What happens behind the scenes? The greed, the jealousy, the corruption, the sabotage she tells all. A powerful and moving story of a mother's love and determination and commitment to her daughter's confidence and dreams. Highly recommended! I received this for free through Goodreads First Reads.
March 9, 2013
1.5 stars. I enjoyed her fictional books much more than this book which is mostly biographical. However, I am not a horse fan and this book contained everything I never wanted to know about horses and horse shows. I am almost speechless regarding Annie's divide and conquer approach to parenting. I felt like Annie abandoned the rest of her family, ignored her own mental health and her family's financial welfare so she could relive a childhood fantasy through her daughter, Teddy.
November 28, 2012
I received this book as a Goodreads first-read giveaway. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It made me very thankful that my kids are not competitive and even more grateful that my kids love animals but were not involved in the horse show world. I couldn't have handled what the main character had to do.
January 9, 2013
Great read! Very relatable as a parent because it shows how parents will do anything to ensure their children are safe and happy. I highly recommend it for a great discussion in book club or just for friends, it would be perfect for mothers and daughters to share. The harshness and cruelty of the horse world would shock those not in it but make for an intriguing story.
March 22, 2013
I've read all of Lesley Kagen's books, and I really looked forward to reading this one as I have been a horse lover all my life. Although I enjoyed the story, the multitude of typos, misspelled words, missing words, added words that made no sense, and grammatical errors detracted from the quality of the writing. The editor should be fired!
August 19, 2014
I loved Louie and wish he were in the book more. I understand this story was more about the horse world but didn't like how Louie and the husband weren't really around much. I didn't appreciate her physical altercations with some of the women in the book. This book was a let down from the O'Malley sister's books.
November 29, 2012
Overall, I really liked this. I think it was fairly over-the-top - no single commutable area can have THAT many horrible dishonest trainers! But I see why the author did it.
If the author writes more horsey stuff, I'll read it.
If the author writes more horsey stuff, I'll read it.
March 27, 2014
I'm not at all into the "horse" world so it was a tad bit difficult to get into the book at first. Once I did, I couldn't put it down. I so adored the main characters and the story was emotional and moving.
January 1, 2015
Lesley Kagen's deeply personal style of writing sheds light on the darker side of the horse lifestyle, as well as the trials of motherhood we can all relate to. Her books read like an afternoon of bonding with a friend over lunch. She is always thoroughly enjoyable.
February 3, 2013
I loved this book! You need to be a horse lover to enjoy it though. I really related to it because I spent many years in the horse show world. Fun read
February 22, 2019
I read “Whistling in the Dark” and loved it. I wanted to read more my Kagen. This was not the one I should have read. I could not relate to the 2 main characters. Between all the farm owners and trainers There were too many characters to keep track of. There were many typos in this book, and sentences that I had to reread because they didn’t make much sense. I will
Try another book by this author though.
Try another book by this author though.
April 27, 2015
Annie Bellamy grew up riding and showing horses. This, among other things, led to the bankruptcy and break-up of her family and perhaps led to her mother's death. She is now trying to come to grips with her past as her own daughter, Teddy, falls in love with horses the same way she did. She vows to herself that this history will not repeat itself. Teddy's talent cannot be denied. She connects with horses like Annie did.
Teddy's passion does come with a hefty price tag and she wonders how that will impact the family. She also could never have imagined the ruthless barn owners, the crooked trainers or the viciously competitive "show" moms her and Teddy would meet on this journey in the world of horses. Annie realizes that to make Teddy's dreams come true, she is going to have to have courage to stand up to all those around them who want them to fail. The world of show horses is an extraordinarily complicated situation. Annie and Teddy had quite an uphill battle and a few missteps but it made each of them stronger and their relationship stronger as well.
This is a truly captivating story about a mother's love and the special bonds between a mother and daughter. Based on a true story, Lesley takes us into world of show horses. We learn what happens behind those barn doors and in the practice rings: the greed, jealousy and corruption behind the workings of the "saddle soap opera".
You do not need any knowledge of horses or the competitions involved in showing a horse to love this book. Leslie fills in all the blanks for you. It is a powerful story that any mother or daughter would enjoy. It is a truly wonderful, heartfelt book! The only problem I had was the glaring "typos". The proof reader did a very poor job as her other books are significantly better in that area. In my opinion this is not the authors fault (as I was once a proofreader for our local newspaper). But sadly since this makes the book "look" bad I have to give it only 4 stars.
Teddy's passion does come with a hefty price tag and she wonders how that will impact the family. She also could never have imagined the ruthless barn owners, the crooked trainers or the viciously competitive "show" moms her and Teddy would meet on this journey in the world of horses. Annie realizes that to make Teddy's dreams come true, she is going to have to have courage to stand up to all those around them who want them to fail. The world of show horses is an extraordinarily complicated situation. Annie and Teddy had quite an uphill battle and a few missteps but it made each of them stronger and their relationship stronger as well.
This is a truly captivating story about a mother's love and the special bonds between a mother and daughter. Based on a true story, Lesley takes us into world of show horses. We learn what happens behind those barn doors and in the practice rings: the greed, jealousy and corruption behind the workings of the "saddle soap opera".
You do not need any knowledge of horses or the competitions involved in showing a horse to love this book. Leslie fills in all the blanks for you. It is a powerful story that any mother or daughter would enjoy. It is a truly wonderful, heartfelt book! The only problem I had was the glaring "typos". The proof reader did a very poor job as her other books are significantly better in that area. In my opinion this is not the authors fault (as I was once a proofreader for our local newspaper). But sadly since this makes the book "look" bad I have to give it only 4 stars.
December 29, 2012
It is always a treat to find a novel for grown ups that gets the horse stuff right. There is nothing worse than picking up a promising book, only to put it right back down when a supposedly horse knowledgeable character does something completely wrong.
Mare's Nest gets the horse stuff right. And as a horse owner, I totally understand how the expenses seem to get away from you. I mean, I am about as broke as broke can be right now. Christmas just hit, I had over $800 in emergency horse vet bills just a few weeks ago. And yet, I still paid someone $100 to clip my horse yesterday. And I just bought a fleece cooler to layer under his blankets, because he might get too cold now that he is clipped.
And as a Mother I understand how we do things for our children that seem silly, or ill-advised, just because we want to provide a childhood different from the one we grew up with.
Thinking about the lengths and expense that Annie goes to makes sense when each step is looked at individually. I have never owned or shown at "A" barns, with the big spenders, so I can't speak to how widespread the unethical mindset is in that circle. It has been my experience that although there are unethical trainers/instructors in every region, the good people far outweigh the bad. It just seems kind of silly to spend years and years going from one screwy barn to another. That whole story line seemed repetitive with a wash-rinse-repeat taste to it: get screwed over at Barn A, move to Barn B and get screwed over, move to Barn C and so on for year after year after year.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book and I would absolutely read another horse-oriented novel from this author. When grown up readers find an author than can write horse related fiction well we tend to keep looking for more from that author!
Mare's Nest gets the horse stuff right. And as a horse owner, I totally understand how the expenses seem to get away from you. I mean, I am about as broke as broke can be right now. Christmas just hit, I had over $800 in emergency horse vet bills just a few weeks ago. And yet, I still paid someone $100 to clip my horse yesterday. And I just bought a fleece cooler to layer under his blankets, because he might get too cold now that he is clipped.
And as a Mother I understand how we do things for our children that seem silly, or ill-advised, just because we want to provide a childhood different from the one we grew up with.
Thinking about the lengths and expense that Annie goes to makes sense when each step is looked at individually. I have never owned or shown at "A" barns, with the big spenders, so I can't speak to how widespread the unethical mindset is in that circle. It has been my experience that although there are unethical trainers/instructors in every region, the good people far outweigh the bad. It just seems kind of silly to spend years and years going from one screwy barn to another. That whole story line seemed repetitive with a wash-rinse-repeat taste to it: get screwed over at Barn A, move to Barn B and get screwed over, move to Barn C and so on for year after year after year.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book and I would absolutely read another horse-oriented novel from this author. When grown up readers find an author than can write horse related fiction well we tend to keep looking for more from that author!
May 25, 2013
I have read all of Ms Kagen's books, found them to be very engaging and couldn't put them down.
This one? I couldn't wait to put it down because it was so awful.
I am not a horse person, and don't know the difference between a saddlebred or hunter, and couldn't tell what a mare, nag, or a thoroughbred was! Or was it hag? Was there an explanation and I missed it?
I am sick of whiny, submissive, no backbone, can't make decisions, let people walk all over me, can't speak up for themselves, easily intimidated, don't know how to say no to their children, would rather be a friend to their child than a parent, plaster a smile on your face and say everything is fine when it's not women, that I am seriously taking a break from dysfunctional women books. (Did I miss anything?) I realize that "Annie" had issues, but at some point maybe she should have considered a different counselor if she wasn't getting anything out of it. I mean really? How many times are you going to go down the same path, realize it's not working, but still keep traveling the same road over and over and over . . . Before you think, hmmm, maybe I should change my route? Sometimes it is better to take the road less traveled. And never referring to your daughter, as your daughter, but "my girl"? That only reinforced the point that Annie had an issue being a mother, not being able to step up to the plate and say NO. Annie was more concerned about being the "good" mom to "her girl". Gag me.
I need a book that doesn't depress me, and this one surely did.
(The synopsis said it is based on a true story. I don't want to assume, but I am guessing it may be autobiographical. If so, I truly hope that the story was quite embellished.)
This one? I couldn't wait to put it down because it was so awful.
I am not a horse person, and don't know the difference between a saddlebred or hunter, and couldn't tell what a mare, nag, or a thoroughbred was! Or was it hag? Was there an explanation and I missed it?
I am sick of whiny, submissive, no backbone, can't make decisions, let people walk all over me, can't speak up for themselves, easily intimidated, don't know how to say no to their children, would rather be a friend to their child than a parent, plaster a smile on your face and say everything is fine when it's not women, that I am seriously taking a break from dysfunctional women books. (Did I miss anything?) I realize that "Annie" had issues, but at some point maybe she should have considered a different counselor if she wasn't getting anything out of it. I mean really? How many times are you going to go down the same path, realize it's not working, but still keep traveling the same road over and over and over . . . Before you think, hmmm, maybe I should change my route? Sometimes it is better to take the road less traveled. And never referring to your daughter, as your daughter, but "my girl"? That only reinforced the point that Annie had an issue being a mother, not being able to step up to the plate and say NO. Annie was more concerned about being the "good" mom to "her girl". Gag me.
I need a book that doesn't depress me, and this one surely did.
(The synopsis said it is based on a true story. I don't want to assume, but I am guessing it may be autobiographical. If so, I truly hope that the story was quite embellished.)
September 6, 2013
*This book was provided to me free of charge courtesy of GoodReads First Reads Giveaways*
This was my first experience reading a book by Lesley Kagen and if her other books are the same it may be my last. Not the worst book I have ever read, but certainly far from best.
I've ridden a horse once in my life and have a good appreciation for them. I have no experience with horse shows or anything related to the care of horses. I was more interested in this story for the emotional side of things and potential of being drawn into a world with which I am not familiar.
Unfortunately I found this book dull and disappointing. Before I was a few chapters in I was already becoming annoyed with the constant side bar of parenthesis being used to divert from run-on sentences filled with unnecessary information. I found myself anticipating the end of the book. I couldn't stand drudging through the main characters issues in addition to the issues of formatting, grammar, and spelling. It's part of the reason why this review took me so long to complete. Normally I look forward to reviewing a book, good or bad, but this one was so boring I felt no inspiration at all. Perhaps for a person who is involved with horses this book reads better but for me it was far from enjoyable.
This was my first experience reading a book by Lesley Kagen and if her other books are the same it may be my last. Not the worst book I have ever read, but certainly far from best.
I've ridden a horse once in my life and have a good appreciation for them. I have no experience with horse shows or anything related to the care of horses. I was more interested in this story for the emotional side of things and potential of being drawn into a world with which I am not familiar.
Unfortunately I found this book dull and disappointing. Before I was a few chapters in I was already becoming annoyed with the constant side bar of parenthesis being used to divert from run-on sentences filled with unnecessary information. I found myself anticipating the end of the book. I couldn't stand drudging through the main characters issues in addition to the issues of formatting, grammar, and spelling. It's part of the reason why this review took me so long to complete. Normally I look forward to reviewing a book, good or bad, but this one was so boring I felt no inspiration at all. Perhaps for a person who is involved with horses this book reads better but for me it was far from enjoyable.
November 1, 2013
I actually bought Mare's Nest because I enjoyed Whistling in the Dark and Good Graces and it was a cheap buy on Kobo. I thought I would really enjoy it because I started to become a fan of Lesley Kagen and her work and I also have a passion for horses.
Overall, this book wasn't bad. She definitely knew what she was talking about when it came to the horse world, as well as really getting a good handle on the emotional depth of people. That is where my positive review ends.
I personally found this was a watered-down version of Whistling in the Dark. With the exception of a slightly altered plot, slightly altered characters, and beginning in a slightly different setting, this book was nearly identical right down to the peanut butter and marshmallow sandwiches mentioned. At one point I literally put down my Kobo and shook my head. Kagen is an amazing writer in my opinion, but from the books of hers that I have read... well, she's not very original or creative.
In conclusion, if you're not willing to spend the money on Whistling in the Dark or Good Graces, just buy this book and it will essentially give you the same effect.
Overall, this book wasn't bad. She definitely knew what she was talking about when it came to the horse world, as well as really getting a good handle on the emotional depth of people. That is where my positive review ends.
I personally found this was a watered-down version of Whistling in the Dark. With the exception of a slightly altered plot, slightly altered characters, and beginning in a slightly different setting, this book was nearly identical right down to the peanut butter and marshmallow sandwiches mentioned. At one point I literally put down my Kobo and shook my head. Kagen is an amazing writer in my opinion, but from the books of hers that I have read... well, she's not very original or creative.
In conclusion, if you're not willing to spend the money on Whistling in the Dark or Good Graces, just buy this book and it will essentially give you the same effect.
September 26, 2014
I read other Lesley Kagen fan and love her books but this novel did not meet the expectations I admire in her books. I read Whistling in the Dark and Good Graces so when I saw I could download this book for free I was excited to start reading. The story is 75 percent true from the author's life. I enjoy horses but to me this story was excessive when Annie, the mother, risked bankruptcy so her daughter could go to horse shows and the need to buy a new horse as her daughter advanced in her riding techniques. I felt Annie ignored the rest of the family , her husband and son , even though she made attempts to include them . I realize some of her actions stemmed from her childhood but it seemed her therapist could not help her. She could not say no to her child. By what I wrote you can probably tell Annie was not a favorite character of mine. I don't know what happens it the horse show circuit but they went through at least 10 horse stables and never were happy for various reasons. It got monotonous at times.
December 30, 2012
An interesting novel about being a "Horse Show Mom", rife with unethical trainers and horse-traders, competitive moms and kids, and "barn drama".
I enjoyed this novel because of the subject matter. The author gets the horsey details right, and the trainers/owners/riders are interesting caricatures of what I hear the show world is like.
I was annoyed with the main character often, because she supposedly grew up as a top saddleseat rider, yet is horribly naive about the horse world (she doesn't know what "eventing" and "dressage" are, doesn't demand vet checks when purchasing horses, is unfamiliar with common horse medications, spends a huge sum on an unproven horse after one test ride, etc). I was also very annoyed with her parenting -- so much effort and money spent on making the girl's dreams come true, regardless of effect on the rest of the family. But I guess that was the point of the novel!
I enjoyed this novel because of the subject matter. The author gets the horsey details right, and the trainers/owners/riders are interesting caricatures of what I hear the show world is like.
I was annoyed with the main character often, because she supposedly grew up as a top saddleseat rider, yet is horribly naive about the horse world (she doesn't know what "eventing" and "dressage" are, doesn't demand vet checks when purchasing horses, is unfamiliar with common horse medications, spends a huge sum on an unproven horse after one test ride, etc). I was also very annoyed with her parenting -- so much effort and money spent on making the girl's dreams come true, regardless of effect on the rest of the family. But I guess that was the point of the novel!
December 22, 2016
MARE'S NEST: quite a story about showing horses.
The entire book was too long. It contained several mentions of factual horse showing rules. It should have been revised to the story of Teddy and her horses. Ms Kagan has been a favorite author of mine; but I was disappointed in this book.
The entire book was too long. It contained several mentions of factual horse showing rules. It should have been revised to the story of Teddy and her horses. Ms Kagan has been a favorite author of mine; but I was disappointed in this book.
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November 29, 2014Do not recommend
As wonderful as Whistling in the Dark was is how bad this is. While the author clearly knows her subject well, the emotional content is shallow. It is Unbelievable that it's the same author.
As wonderful as Whistling in the Dark was is how bad this is. While the author clearly knows her subject well, the emotional content is shallow. It is Unbelievable that it's the same author.
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