What do you think?
Rate this book
Dynamo
Jeth Cavanaugh is searching for a new life along one of Pennsylvania's mountain ridges when he stumbles upon a stable of show jumpers owned by Rob and Katie Chilton. Throw in a volatile gaited stallion named Dynamo, and Jeth will do anything to work there. He earns his living by training and showing Rob's jumpers, but Dynamo is his primary passion. Everything changes when God enters his life--in the unconventional form of a hard slap by an old girlfriend--and ignites a new, greater passion within him. But along with fervor comes fear at the undeniable evidence of God's hand on his life. Inexplicable events, both good and bad, make him moan plaintively, "Why does God do this to me? I get the feeling I'm being set up for something." He is, indeed. Jeth's life is anything but predictable, much like the God he serves. The real Dynamo and his ultimate trainer emerge out of an excruciating mix of disaster and brokenness, which are never beyond the reach of redemption. This story is God in your face: Who is He, really? What does He ask of us?
304 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Eleanor Gustafson
8 books36 followersEllie Gustafson writes pretty good books these days. Been at it long enough to learn a few things. It all started in 1978 with my first published article, “I Saw a Thing Today,” about a couple of weasels I met on a stone wall in Vermont. Short stories and other articles followed, and then came Appalachian Spring. BIG learning curve. The editor slashed characters, whole chapters, and made a lot of red marks everywhere. Had to rewrite the entire book—on a brand-new Apple IIe computer I had no idea how to operate. The novel was well received, however, which led to more novels and more painful learning experiences.
A common book theme is the cosmic struggle between good and evil in light of God's overarching work of redemption. Having graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois—where I met my husband while teaching horsemanship (funny story there)—I have since been actively involved in church life as a minister's wife, teacher, musician, writer, and encourager. A host of other experiences, from mouse wars to house building, help bring color and humor to my fiction. I do like to laugh a lot.
My husband and I live in Massachusetts, where he recently retired from teaching online college courses in philosophy. We travel a fair amount, spend time with three children and eight grandchildren, and enjoy camping at the family forest in Chester, Vermont.
I've had two professionals in the publishing field tell me that An Unpresentable Glory is one of the best novels they've read. High praise, indeed! Please give me your honest assessment.
A common book theme is the cosmic struggle between good and evil in light of God's overarching work of redemption. Having graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois—where I met my husband while teaching horsemanship (funny story there)—I have since been actively involved in church life as a minister's wife, teacher, musician, writer, and encourager. A host of other experiences, from mouse wars to house building, help bring color and humor to my fiction. I do like to laugh a lot.
My husband and I live in Massachusetts, where he recently retired from teaching online college courses in philosophy. We travel a fair amount, spend time with three children and eight grandchildren, and enjoy camping at the family forest in Chester, Vermont.
I've had two professionals in the publishing field tell me that An Unpresentable Glory is one of the best novels they've read. High praise, indeed! Please give me your honest assessment.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 6, 2016
God takes the bad and makes it good. God equips the called. Sentences to sum up the novel, Dynamo.
Powerful, gripping, and gritty...these are only a few words to try to describe the wonderful story brought to life by Eleanor Gustafson.
Jeth Cavanaugh may be raw and rough, but he knows horses. One decision to travel down a road led him on a journey for which he wasn't prepared.
Little by little Jeth come to know Jesus and His sacrifice for us all. Little by little his soul is revealed, mirrored by the beautiful stallion, Dynamo.
The dialogue in Dynamo is real and at times gritty (never overstepping the boundary of Christian morality). The emotions are straightforward and yet complex.
The characters' involvement with each other contributes to their growth.
Indeed, Jeth is being "set up for something", but that something is great.
I cried when a beloved character died. I cheered when a character was saved. I moaned when trouble came.
All in all, Dynamo is a great Christian literary fiction. The growth and journey of the character made a strong impact upon this reader. It stayed with me long after I turned that last page and closed the book.
I encourage all readers of general and literary fiction to immerse
themselves in this story and take the ride of their lives.
Superb, Eleanor Gustafson, superb!
Powerful, gripping, and gritty...these are only a few words to try to describe the wonderful story brought to life by Eleanor Gustafson.
Jeth Cavanaugh may be raw and rough, but he knows horses. One decision to travel down a road led him on a journey for which he wasn't prepared.
Little by little Jeth come to know Jesus and His sacrifice for us all. Little by little his soul is revealed, mirrored by the beautiful stallion, Dynamo.
The dialogue in Dynamo is real and at times gritty (never overstepping the boundary of Christian morality). The emotions are straightforward and yet complex.
The characters' involvement with each other contributes to their growth.
Indeed, Jeth is being "set up for something", but that something is great.
I cried when a beloved character died. I cheered when a character was saved. I moaned when trouble came.
All in all, Dynamo is a great Christian literary fiction. The growth and journey of the character made a strong impact upon this reader. It stayed with me long after I turned that last page and closed the book.
I encourage all readers of general and literary fiction to immerse
themselves in this story and take the ride of their lives.
Superb, Eleanor Gustafson, superb!
July 18, 2014
Dynamo by Eleanor Gustafson is such an excellent book. I thought it would be good when I read the back, but nothing prepared me for how fantastic it is.
Jeth made mistakes in life like we all do, but he learned many lessons from his and tries to live differently. Rob and Katie believe in Jeth and not many people ever had. Jeth knows nothing about God, but he has plenty of questions and not the ones you would expect. Another wonderful character in this book is Maybelle. She isn’t in many scenes, but she plays a huge part as being Jeth’s angel and always is there to help him with whatever life throws at him.
Nothing is common about this story. It is so full of love, peace, forgiveness, life and loss. It is really, really a book to read. Eleanor Gustafson is a new author to me, but she is now a new favorite. If her other books are half as good as Dynamo they would be worth reading. I highly recommend Dynamo.
Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
Jeth made mistakes in life like we all do, but he learned many lessons from his and tries to live differently. Rob and Katie believe in Jeth and not many people ever had. Jeth knows nothing about God, but he has plenty of questions and not the ones you would expect. Another wonderful character in this book is Maybelle. She isn’t in many scenes, but she plays a huge part as being Jeth’s angel and always is there to help him with whatever life throws at him.
Nothing is common about this story. It is so full of love, peace, forgiveness, life and loss. It is really, really a book to read. Eleanor Gustafson is a new author to me, but she is now a new favorite. If her other books are half as good as Dynamo they would be worth reading. I highly recommend Dynamo.
Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
July 22, 2014
What a gripping read! I knew nothing of horses of showing them, training them, etc. The entire horse world was unknown to me, I see what I was missing when reading this story. It takes you to the behind what the public would see and takes you to the farms where the horses are grown, trained, and then shown. Bought and sold. This is the story of Jeth Cavanaugh who is searching for a new life and takes a wrong turn and ends up at the home of Rob and Katie Chilton who train and show horses, they teach children to ride jumpers, etc. Rob and Katiie are devout christians and even though Jeth has been in prison, they see that he is a horse whisperer they have a horse Dynamo who really can't be managed or rideen by anyone until Jeth comes along. They hire him for room and board and the little money they can scrape up and on Sundays they don't allow Jeth to work, he can go to church with them if he likes. Since he can't work and has not much money he decides to try it out. It's not so bad, he returns. Slowly the word of God makes it's way into Jeth and changes his life. He has a day where he is really tested and that is the day that changes everything for him. Dynamo is a leading character in Jeths life throughout this book as well is the word of God as brought front and center by the author. This book takes hold of you and you can't put it down. It's hard to go about your daily chores when all you can think about is getting back to the story to see how it ends.
This is a telling story, one that stays with you when you aren't reading and has you compelled to finish it and see the story to the end. I loved this book!
Here is the review as found on Good Reads:
Jeth Cavanaugh is searching for a new life along one of Pennsylvania's mountain ridges when he stumbles upon a stable of show jumpers owned by Rob and Katie Chilton. Throw in a volatile gaited stallion named Dynamo, and Jeth will do anything to work there. He earns his living by training and showing Rob's jumpers, but Dynamo is his primary passion. Everything changes when God enters his life--in the uuch like the God he serves. The real Dynamo and his ultimate trainer emerge out of an excruciating mix of disaster and brokenness, which are never beyond the reach of redemption. This story is God in your face: Who is He, really? What does He ask of us?nconventional form of a hard slap by an old girlfriend--and ignites a new, greater passion within him. But along with fervor comes fear at the undeniable evidence of God's hand on his life. Inexplicable events, both good and bad, make him moan plaintively, "Why does God do this to me? I get the feeling I'm being set up for something." He is, indeed. Jeth's life is anything but predictable, m
This is a telling story, one that stays with you when you aren't reading and has you compelled to finish it and see the story to the end. I loved this book!
Here is the review as found on Good Reads:
Jeth Cavanaugh is searching for a new life along one of Pennsylvania's mountain ridges when he stumbles upon a stable of show jumpers owned by Rob and Katie Chilton. Throw in a volatile gaited stallion named Dynamo, and Jeth will do anything to work there. He earns his living by training and showing Rob's jumpers, but Dynamo is his primary passion. Everything changes when God enters his life--in the uuch like the God he serves. The real Dynamo and his ultimate trainer emerge out of an excruciating mix of disaster and brokenness, which are never beyond the reach of redemption. This story is God in your face: Who is He, really? What does He ask of us?nconventional form of a hard slap by an old girlfriend--and ignites a new, greater passion within him. But along with fervor comes fear at the undeniable evidence of God's hand on his life. Inexplicable events, both good and bad, make him moan plaintively, "Why does God do this to me? I get the feeling I'm being set up for something." He is, indeed. Jeth's life is anything but predictable, m
April 2, 2015
I won this book through GoodReads first read program.
There was both good and not so good with this book. Let's start out with the good. It is a good story about the ups and downs we all face regardless of whether you are a Christian or not. The backdrop of this novel is the training and showing of both American Standard Bred horses and jumpers. I rode in the quarter horse western pleasure circuit as a kid so I was able to identify much of what went on with Jeth who trained and showed horses. Jeth was recently released from prison and was looking for a job. Rob and Katie, Christians, hire Jeth and give him a chance. Jeth does a good job for them and works on training a stallion named Dynamo who is a handful. Jeth eventually becomes a Christian after going to church with the Chiltons and seeing how they live their lives.
I enjoyed how Gustafson showed that even when you become a Christian life doesn't all of a sudden become a blessed walk in the park. We still struggle in this world and still sin brings problems. Forgiveness is a huge theme and was well illustrated in the lives of all the characters. The thing I liked most of the story was the example given of showing love to our "enemies" and how that can be used by God to bring others to Him.
Now for the things I didn't like about the book. What's up with the spy stuff? Not sure why something like that was even needed. A big reach by the author. I was also not a big fan of Janni and her relationship with Jeth. There was such a better way to end the story. I was just let down at the end of it. What happened to Cindy? She just fell of the face of the map.
Good start and disappointing finish.
There was both good and not so good with this book. Let's start out with the good. It is a good story about the ups and downs we all face regardless of whether you are a Christian or not. The backdrop of this novel is the training and showing of both American Standard Bred horses and jumpers. I rode in the quarter horse western pleasure circuit as a kid so I was able to identify much of what went on with Jeth who trained and showed horses. Jeth was recently released from prison and was looking for a job. Rob and Katie, Christians, hire Jeth and give him a chance. Jeth does a good job for them and works on training a stallion named Dynamo who is a handful. Jeth eventually becomes a Christian after going to church with the Chiltons and seeing how they live their lives.
I enjoyed how Gustafson showed that even when you become a Christian life doesn't all of a sudden become a blessed walk in the park. We still struggle in this world and still sin brings problems. Forgiveness is a huge theme and was well illustrated in the lives of all the characters. The thing I liked most of the story was the example given of showing love to our "enemies" and how that can be used by God to bring others to Him.
Now for the things I didn't like about the book. What's up with the spy stuff? Not sure why something like that was even needed. A big reach by the author. I was also not a big fan of Janni and her relationship with Jeth. There was such a better way to end the story. I was just let down at the end of it. What happened to Cindy? She just fell of the face of the map.
Good start and disappointing finish.
August 8, 2014
I am not a horse person. I showed cows when I was a kid. So I wasn’t sure what to expect, or if I’d even understand, when I began reading Eleanor Gustafson’s latest novel “Dynamo” about a horse trainer named Jeth and a majestic stallion named Dynamo.
I stayed up until 4 a.m. to finish reading this “horse” book, so thoroughly did it draw me in.
It turns out that Dynamo is a journey book—the sometimes bumpy journey that new Christians take learning their faith, and the journey that can shake veteran Christians who thought they had their faith cinched in tightly until it slammed against a high gate. And there’s a Master Trainer who knows when we need disciplined and when we need loved back onto the course He’s chosen for us to run.
If you love horses, especially jumpers, great. You’ll get even more out of this book than I did. If you haven’t a clue, it’s okay. “Dynamo” is more about you and your relationships than it is about stalls and sawdust. Ellie’s captivating writing whisks you away on an adventure full of surprises. I was jarred more than once because I thought I knew where the story was going, and suddenly, like the jumpers Jeth trains at Morningstar Stables in Pennsylvania, we’ve leaped somewhere else. “Dynamo” sure wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s more.
I stayed up until 4 a.m. to finish reading this “horse” book, so thoroughly did it draw me in.
It turns out that Dynamo is a journey book—the sometimes bumpy journey that new Christians take learning their faith, and the journey that can shake veteran Christians who thought they had their faith cinched in tightly until it slammed against a high gate. And there’s a Master Trainer who knows when we need disciplined and when we need loved back onto the course He’s chosen for us to run.
If you love horses, especially jumpers, great. You’ll get even more out of this book than I did. If you haven’t a clue, it’s okay. “Dynamo” is more about you and your relationships than it is about stalls and sawdust. Ellie’s captivating writing whisks you away on an adventure full of surprises. I was jarred more than once because I thought I knew where the story was going, and suddenly, like the jumpers Jeth trains at Morningstar Stables in Pennsylvania, we’ve leaped somewhere else. “Dynamo” sure wasn’t what I was expecting. It’s more.
November 25, 2016
Dynamo is the name of a horse, one of the main characters in this story. Throughout the book we see the relationship between Dynamo and Jeth.
Jeth has found himself at Rob and Katie Chilton's ranch. This ranch trains, shows and sells horses. For someone like Jeth, who loves horses and needs a breather from the hard times he has experienced, this may be the best place.
Dynamo is his challenge as he decides he should be the one to tame this horse. However, he is amazed at the spiritual lessons he is able to learn from this horse.
The author was able to use her own love and knowledge of horses to good use in this book. God's presence is shown throughout as she weaves the lessons that need to be learned in surprising ways.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves horses, or any animals.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
Jeth has found himself at Rob and Katie Chilton's ranch. This ranch trains, shows and sells horses. For someone like Jeth, who loves horses and needs a breather from the hard times he has experienced, this may be the best place.
Dynamo is his challenge as he decides he should be the one to tame this horse. However, he is amazed at the spiritual lessons he is able to learn from this horse.
The author was able to use her own love and knowledge of horses to good use in this book. God's presence is shown throughout as she weaves the lessons that need to be learned in surprising ways.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves horses, or any animals.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2016
What a dynamic book! Wow! Dynamo takes you on a wild ride like on a rodeo bronco. Ups and downs, twists and turns follow the main character Jeth Cavanaugh throughout. He's destined for a horse, a change in his life, and a meeting with God. His desire for one woman places him against many odds as he makes critical decisions along the way. His new friends support him as best they can but he has a mind of his own. God's dealings with Jeth crush your heart yet you see His hand on him over and over.
Dynamo will take you on a faith journey that may be similar to your own while it builds your trust in God as it did mine. Take time out to read it!
I was graciously gifted this book by the author, Eleanor Gustafson for my honest review above.
Dynamo will take you on a faith journey that may be similar to your own while it builds your trust in God as it did mine. Take time out to read it!
I was graciously gifted this book by the author, Eleanor Gustafson for my honest review above.
July 15, 2018
I don't like to leave bad reviews or give a book less than 3 stars, but this book wasn't for me. Had to stop reading about 1/2 way through because it made no sense. It also seemed to infer that Jeth became a "Christian" because he chose right over wrong, but that's not how it works. Reading the other reviews, it seems that I'm in the minority so I'm not sure what I'm missing. I guess you'll have to read it for yourself to find out. Happy reading!
April 8, 2015
There is a lot of BIG Biblical stuff going on in this book. The main character deals with a spiritual journey that is akin to a prophet from the Old Testament. I enjoyed the trials and warfare that Jeth endured during the book, as well as trying to line up those examples with what I remembered from the Bible itself.
As I said, there is a lot going on here to chew on. Enjoy.
As I said, there is a lot going on here to chew on. Enjoy.
May 14, 2015
A wonderful Christian book that is a gripping and powerful story. Could not put it down. I won this book in a goodreads giveaway
June 27, 2017
I have been hooked on horse stories since I first read Thunderhead when I was probably about ten. Heroic stallions and the equally heroic humans who love and train them just fill up my heart, and this one maybe makes it overflow!
You see, there's this guy fresh out of prison (Jeth Cavanaugh) looking for a job, and there's this vicious stallion (Dynamo) who'd lots rather kick, buck, and bite than be ridden, but he's the most amazing five-gated show horse Jeth has ever seen. They meet at the stables of Rob and Katie Cavendish, and Rob hires Jeth to help train and show jumpers--which Jeth does to perfection, but he longs to show Dynamo.
Showing and training horses is the perfect escape for Jeth. He needs to forget his former boss's daughter, Janni Wingate. Dear Daddy Wingate had made sure Jeth went to prison on trumped-up charges, and even if the sentence was only two years, he is now branded for life. If Janni ever sees Jeth again, her father now makes sure his own daughter will face prison or death!
When Jeth meets up with God, his life is radically changed, and not all the changes sit well with Jeth. Janni makes him an offer he can't refuse--but he refuses it anyway and earns himself a stinging slap. Things go downhill, but God begins doing unbelievable things through this ex-con even while he's at his lowest point.
And Dynamo--Jeth's heart's passion and enemy--begins to show eye-popping progress.
I wish I could give this book ten stars. Buy from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
You see, there's this guy fresh out of prison (Jeth Cavanaugh) looking for a job, and there's this vicious stallion (Dynamo) who'd lots rather kick, buck, and bite than be ridden, but he's the most amazing five-gated show horse Jeth has ever seen. They meet at the stables of Rob and Katie Cavendish, and Rob hires Jeth to help train and show jumpers--which Jeth does to perfection, but he longs to show Dynamo.
Showing and training horses is the perfect escape for Jeth. He needs to forget his former boss's daughter, Janni Wingate. Dear Daddy Wingate had made sure Jeth went to prison on trumped-up charges, and even if the sentence was only two years, he is now branded for life. If Janni ever sees Jeth again, her father now makes sure his own daughter will face prison or death!
When Jeth meets up with God, his life is radically changed, and not all the changes sit well with Jeth. Janni makes him an offer he can't refuse--but he refuses it anyway and earns himself a stinging slap. Things go downhill, but God begins doing unbelievable things through this ex-con even while he's at his lowest point.
And Dynamo--Jeth's heart's passion and enemy--begins to show eye-popping progress.
I wish I could give this book ten stars. Buy from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
October 27, 2016
Dynamo is an excellent story of a man who desires to do God's will! Jeth Cavanaugh is a strong character who has just been released from prison and needs a job. Rob and Katie Chilton run their stable on Christian principles and anyone working for them has to follow some of these principles too. Jeth will agree to anything to work with the amazing stallion, Dynamo. The characters in this book face real life situations - some not so pretty! Eleanor Gustafson has written a fast paced novel with unexpected events. I recommend Dynamo even if you don't like horses! I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2019
From the first book’s first pages, the reader is drawn into the fascinating world of show horses and the emotional journey of a man seeking answers to questions of the heart. His struggles, from despair to faith in the God of love and mercy, may get you thinking about your own relationship with Christ.
The glossary is a helpful reference for those unfamiliar with vocabulary relating to horses.
Note: I am thankful to have discovered Eleanor Gustafson’s books which inspire me as a fellow author.
The glossary is a helpful reference for those unfamiliar with vocabulary relating to horses.
Note: I am thankful to have discovered Eleanor Gustafson’s books which inspire me as a fellow author.
November 3, 2014
Deb's Dozen: 12-word summaries - God’s power manifested in a new believer – a dynamo of faith. Awesome!
Recently I was in the New Hampshire mountains at the New England Christian Writers’ Conference. My good friend, Cyndi McDowell, had insisted that I come – that I would find my “people” here. She was so right – I reconnected with some friends I’d not seen for a long time. I found some new friends who live in the area. I heard some incredible speakers and met some wonderful writers.
One of the writers is Eleanor Gustafson – when she heard I reviewed books here on my blog, she asked if I’d be willing to review her book – Dynamo - if she gave me a copy. I, of course, agreed to read the book, but made no promises about the review. Understand, I don’t post reviews of books that I don’t like – so not every book I receive gets a review.
Am I happy that Eleanor gave me her book – Dynamo is the most spell-binding, I-couldn't-put-the book-down-and stayed-up-all-night-reading book I've had the pleasure to read in years! The writing is superb. The story is captivating. The characters are believable. God’s power is evident.
The main character, Jeth, just got out of prison and is struggling. He has no sense of belonging or of hope. The woman he loves is forbidden to see him – he drives off through the Pennsylvania countryside with no real destination. Losing his way, he comes upon Morningstar Farm – and stops because of the horses and the jump course he sees. Rob and Katie Chilton take him in and so begins Jeth’s rehabilitation. Still on parole, he must meet Rob’s conditions of no drinking, swearing, and smoking in order to stay. He must go to church with them on Sundays – and he has to work hard to be able to ride. And he so wants to ride – he’s ridden jumpers almost since he could walk. And then there’s Dynamo – a black stallion with a temper and a five-gaited pace. How Jeth and Dynamo become a dynamic duo will draw you in until you’re lost in the drama of the story. And throughout the book, the most powerful character is God – a God who has laid hold of Jeth and won’t let go. But then He does say that once we’re His, He’ll never leave us nor forsake us, doesn't He?
In my book, Dynamo deserves 5-plus stars – you’ll definitely want to get and read the book – liking horses is not a requirement although you’ll love that part of the story as well.
Eleanor is a delightful woman. Here’s how she describes herself on her website, www.EleanorGustafson.com:
What have I done in life? Everything from being a minister’s wife, teacher, musician, writer, and encourager, to horses, building houses, tree farming, and making maple syrup – all of which has been helpful fodder for writing fiction. My passion is God, and then comes loving people and writing. My favorite books are the Bible, Jane Eyre, and Pride and Prejudice. My music of choice is classical – it feeds my soul. However, wherever worship is going on in whatever musical language, I’m there—happily.
I am looking forward to reading another of Eleanor’s books, The Stones, about King David. If that book is even half as well written as Dynamo, I’m in for a treat!
Recently I was in the New Hampshire mountains at the New England Christian Writers’ Conference. My good friend, Cyndi McDowell, had insisted that I come – that I would find my “people” here. She was so right – I reconnected with some friends I’d not seen for a long time. I found some new friends who live in the area. I heard some incredible speakers and met some wonderful writers.
One of the writers is Eleanor Gustafson – when she heard I reviewed books here on my blog, she asked if I’d be willing to review her book – Dynamo - if she gave me a copy. I, of course, agreed to read the book, but made no promises about the review. Understand, I don’t post reviews of books that I don’t like – so not every book I receive gets a review.
Am I happy that Eleanor gave me her book – Dynamo is the most spell-binding, I-couldn't-put-the book-down-and stayed-up-all-night-reading book I've had the pleasure to read in years! The writing is superb. The story is captivating. The characters are believable. God’s power is evident.
The main character, Jeth, just got out of prison and is struggling. He has no sense of belonging or of hope. The woman he loves is forbidden to see him – he drives off through the Pennsylvania countryside with no real destination. Losing his way, he comes upon Morningstar Farm – and stops because of the horses and the jump course he sees. Rob and Katie Chilton take him in and so begins Jeth’s rehabilitation. Still on parole, he must meet Rob’s conditions of no drinking, swearing, and smoking in order to stay. He must go to church with them on Sundays – and he has to work hard to be able to ride. And he so wants to ride – he’s ridden jumpers almost since he could walk. And then there’s Dynamo – a black stallion with a temper and a five-gaited pace. How Jeth and Dynamo become a dynamic duo will draw you in until you’re lost in the drama of the story. And throughout the book, the most powerful character is God – a God who has laid hold of Jeth and won’t let go. But then He does say that once we’re His, He’ll never leave us nor forsake us, doesn't He?
In my book, Dynamo deserves 5-plus stars – you’ll definitely want to get and read the book – liking horses is not a requirement although you’ll love that part of the story as well.
Eleanor is a delightful woman. Here’s how she describes herself on her website, www.EleanorGustafson.com:
What have I done in life? Everything from being a minister’s wife, teacher, musician, writer, and encourager, to horses, building houses, tree farming, and making maple syrup – all of which has been helpful fodder for writing fiction. My passion is God, and then comes loving people and writing. My favorite books are the Bible, Jane Eyre, and Pride and Prejudice. My music of choice is classical – it feeds my soul. However, wherever worship is going on in whatever musical language, I’m there—happily.
I am looking forward to reading another of Eleanor’s books, The Stones, about King David. If that book is even half as well written as Dynamo, I’m in for a treat!
February 15, 2017
Dynamo by Eleanor Gustafson is a well-developed and written novel on redemption, temptation, and following God’s Holy Spirit when He nudges. I enjoyed the book immensely except for one part (which I won’t comment and reveal.) in the plot that I wasn’t expecting. Jeth Cavanaugh has just been released from prison and is looking to begin a new life, but who will hire an ex-con? God has someone in mind. As Jeth is walking on the backroads in Pennsylvania, he comes upon a small private horse farm in need of repair and an energetic stallion, Dynamo, that catches his eye. The owners, Rob and Katie, are Christians just starting out in buying, selling, and training horses to jump. Just up Jeff’s alley. Jeth offers to work for just room and board in a small trailer and begins his journey back into the horse world. Along the way, influenced by Rob and Katie, he gives his life to God, but the temptations are great – former friends, an old girlfriend, and even Katie. Can he survive and keep true to God? You will have to read and find out. This book kept my interest until the end, and I recommend it highly. I received a copy from the author and publisher of The Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2017
"Dynamo" is a 308 page Christian novel by author Eleanor Gustafson. This is the first book that I have read by author Gustafson and it was delightful. I really enjoyed it. Her style of writing is engaging. It drew me in quickly and kept my interest.
Set in Pennsylvania's mountain this is an action packed story about a stallion called Dynamo. He is named that for a reason as he is not meek. It also is the tale of Jeth Cavanaugh. Jeth is a horse trainer and shows jumpers. He also is a man that does not want any part of God.
Jeth works for room and board for a Christian couple, Rob and Katie Chilton. They make certain demands on him in exchange for living with them. The change it brings about in Jeth is apparent. I loved reading about him and his relationship with Maybelle from church.
The author has written characters that are relatable, well rounded, and even flawed. They will become friends that grab readers and pull you right into the story, even secondary characters are wonderful. The author writes smooth dialog and plenty of it.
You don't have to be from horse country to enjoy this book. Anyone will glean many things. You will learn all about horses, training, and showing them. This Christian book has messages of love, redemption, mercy, forgiveness, and faith in God. It is about having faith in God and His purpose for our lives. It even touches on what other forces work against us, spiritual warfare, and suffering.
I would highly recommend this wonderfully written book. It is well researched, organized, and written. It is thought provoking, entertaining, and enlightening. This is an excellent novel. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend it.
I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest review.
Set in Pennsylvania's mountain this is an action packed story about a stallion called Dynamo. He is named that for a reason as he is not meek. It also is the tale of Jeth Cavanaugh. Jeth is a horse trainer and shows jumpers. He also is a man that does not want any part of God.
Jeth works for room and board for a Christian couple, Rob and Katie Chilton. They make certain demands on him in exchange for living with them. The change it brings about in Jeth is apparent. I loved reading about him and his relationship with Maybelle from church.
The author has written characters that are relatable, well rounded, and even flawed. They will become friends that grab readers and pull you right into the story, even secondary characters are wonderful. The author writes smooth dialog and plenty of it.
You don't have to be from horse country to enjoy this book. Anyone will glean many things. You will learn all about horses, training, and showing them. This Christian book has messages of love, redemption, mercy, forgiveness, and faith in God. It is about having faith in God and His purpose for our lives. It even touches on what other forces work against us, spiritual warfare, and suffering.
I would highly recommend this wonderfully written book. It is well researched, organized, and written. It is thought provoking, entertaining, and enlightening. This is an excellent novel. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend it.
I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest review.
December 6, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this book and I appreciate the knowledge of horses that the author shared. I have always been afraid of horses, but love looking at them. They are quite tall and after reading this story I have come to respect them. As the author described some of the horses as being wild and needing training, I thought about people. Don't some of us kinda live wildly and find ourselves in trouble. Just like a wild or stubborn horse, when we experience patience and love, we begin to let our guard down and begin to trust.
Jeth has seen some hard times and really needs a break. He finds himself at a ranch that is run by Rob and Katie Chilton. They run a place that trains, shows and sells horses. What a perfect place for Jeth to start over. He knows all about horses and hopes this will be a new beginning for him. I really liked how he was hungry to hear the word and how patient Rob was as Jeth asked questions. Jeth really was down on himself because of the trouble he had been in. He just couldn't understand why God would forgive him.
Dynamo is one tough, and hard headed horse. Jeth has a challenge ahead of him when he takes on the role of taming this horse. As Jeth's faith grows stronger, he finds himself being tested . Will he make the right choices? What lessons will Dynamo teach him? The story is well written and I loved the interaction between Jeth and Dynamo. The story has secrets and surprises that will have you on the edge of your seat. Get ready for a ride that will take you on a journey of forgiveness and faith.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network . The review is my own opinion and I was not compensated for it.
January 18, 2017
This book is appropriately titled “dynamo” as the whole storyline is filled with this emotionally charged word. It is one man’s gut wrenching search for the true meaning to life, his road to finding God, and his one hundred and eighty degree unconventional mind set change as his thoughts and actions became aware of the reality of God.
Jeth Cavanaugh knew hardship, loss, betrayal, and defeat, but he always seemed to get up and keep going. He also knew that he loved working with horses and that his life would be better if he could be a part of Morningstar Stables and master Dynamo, the most volatile gaited stallion he had ever met. Working at Morningstar meant Jeth would have to give up some of his habits and associations. It was the beginning of making him into a man of integrity.
The author has woven this story to put the reader into the throes of all the emotions of the characters – both happy and sad, yet each one very intense. It is a book one cannot put down.
I highly recommend it for the depth of the realistic struggles which all of us can identify with in one way or another.
January 31, 2017
Dynamo by Eleanor Gustafson is the first novel that I have read by this author. This novel is not just an interesting story to be read and enjoyed. This novel deals with real-life characters who struggle with issues like temptations, sin, loss, wrong choices, bad attitudes and behaviors. Yet, it also shows how God’s love, faith, forgiveness and hope can change people and situations.
A wrong turn and a chance encounter with someone whom he might not have ever known has a lasting influence on the life of the main character, Jeth. Drawn to a field of fine-looking horses, Jeth takes a chance. What can a recently-released con lose just by stopping and inquiring about Morningstar Stables? Before his two years in prison, he had excelled at working with and training horses.
Jeth Cavanaugh could not have ever imagined where this second chance would take him and how his life would be altered, once he met the God of his new boss and friend and an elderly saint, named Maybelle. Loss and tragedy play a part in his transformation, and God uses him in undeniable ways. A compelling and thought-provoking story. I received this novel through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
A wrong turn and a chance encounter with someone whom he might not have ever known has a lasting influence on the life of the main character, Jeth. Drawn to a field of fine-looking horses, Jeth takes a chance. What can a recently-released con lose just by stopping and inquiring about Morningstar Stables? Before his two years in prison, he had excelled at working with and training horses.
Jeth Cavanaugh could not have ever imagined where this second chance would take him and how his life would be altered, once he met the God of his new boss and friend and an elderly saint, named Maybelle. Loss and tragedy play a part in his transformation, and God uses him in undeniable ways. A compelling and thought-provoking story. I received this novel through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2016
Oh My Oh My! It has been a while since I started one of my reviews in this manner. I loved this book! I Love this Author! And I Want More!
This is my first book reading from this author. I have kept in touch off an on since I received this lovely book! Author Eleanor Gustafson is one amazing, down to earth, very easy to talk to author that absolutely writes in a style that pulls you into the pages of Dynamo and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I will also say that I really could see all the ways that God's hand can be, not only on our lives but is encouragement, guiding, carrying at times, and as in the synopsis puts it "God in your face: Who is He, really? What does He ask of us?
At first I was like this will be a book for one of my granddaughters that LOVES Horses, and mentioned it to the author. She came back with you may want to wait and see. Giving me no peak into:
To read more of my review: http://breathoflifebookreviews.blogsp...
This is my first book reading from this author. I have kept in touch off an on since I received this lovely book! Author Eleanor Gustafson is one amazing, down to earth, very easy to talk to author that absolutely writes in a style that pulls you into the pages of Dynamo and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I will also say that I really could see all the ways that God's hand can be, not only on our lives but is encouragement, guiding, carrying at times, and as in the synopsis puts it "God in your face: Who is He, really? What does He ask of us?
At first I was like this will be a book for one of my granddaughters that LOVES Horses, and mentioned it to the author. She came back with you may want to wait and see. Giving me no peak into:
To read more of my review: http://breathoflifebookreviews.blogsp...
January 24, 2016
Ellie Gustafson pens a powerful story of life and redemption in her novel, Dynamo. The amazing tale captures the attention as well as the heart. Realistic characters and unexpected twists keep the reader turning the pages as the story rips along.
A well-written book with a focus on the spiritual and emotional journey of Jeth Cavanaugh, Dynamo explores the struggle of a man's re-introduction into society following prison. It also paints the picture of the cutthroat world of horse-jumping as well as the lives of the owner, trainer, and rider...and the dangers that lurk therein.
For the characterization, focus, and amazing story, I give five stars. I believe information about Dynamo, the stallion could have been expanded on a bit earlier in the plot. I kept waiting for it, especially since the book was named after the horse, but that's not enough for me to dock my review.
***** Five stars, Ms. Gustafson...well, done.
A well-written book with a focus on the spiritual and emotional journey of Jeth Cavanaugh, Dynamo explores the struggle of a man's re-introduction into society following prison. It also paints the picture of the cutthroat world of horse-jumping as well as the lives of the owner, trainer, and rider...and the dangers that lurk therein.
For the characterization, focus, and amazing story, I give five stars. I believe information about Dynamo, the stallion could have been expanded on a bit earlier in the plot. I kept waiting for it, especially since the book was named after the horse, but that's not enough for me to dock my review.
***** Five stars, Ms. Gustafson...well, done.
October 15, 2016
This is a great book for horse lovers and anyone else who loves a story of redemption. Many books have one tension in the story line. Then near the end, the author either ties it up in a neat bow in a page or two (which I don't find pleasing), or they take their time in drawing the story to its conclusion. However, this book has a series of events that cause tension, but then that tension is resolved. At the end of the book, you realize how each event played a part in the final ending. One thing that this book brings to light is that when God calls you to do something, He's not kidding around. You'd better do it or life will not be pretty. I loved the main character, Jeth. He was flawed but obedient to God and had wisdom beyond his years. After reading this book, I felt like I was leaving some good friends behind. It is a very well written book.
I received a free copy from bookfun.org for an honest review.
I received a free copy from bookfun.org for an honest review.
February 3, 2017
I am not a big fan of horses. However, my daughters are. With that being said, the author does a wonderful job of imparting horse knowledge so that those of us not into horses could understand. That being said, horse knowledge was not the only thing that made this book so enjoyable. The twists within the plot and story line added to the tension and character paths. While Jeth takes his journey so will the reader. Does God really have a say in the shaping of our lives? It will have the reader exploring their own life and lessons learned.
This is a page turner. I found myself unable to put it down. I received a copy through bookfun. The review was written because a book of this caliber deserves a review.
This is a page turner. I found myself unable to put it down. I received a copy through bookfun. The review was written because a book of this caliber deserves a review.
April 1, 2016
When I was a little girl I always loved horses. Fortunately, I was about to be around them some. I loved riding and always wished the ride would never end. My little-girl love of horses is part of what drew me into this story. While some of the story may seem a little far-fetched (you’ll have to read it to find out what I’m talking about!), I do believe that God works in mysterious ways. This book is full of those mysterious ways. A quite enjoyable read in my opinion.
February 12, 2015
I enjoyed the story, but I particularly enjoyed the spiritual content. Excellent book
February 12, 2016
This is not my usual style, but it was well written and an engaging story.
Read
June 8, 2017This book is outside my normal genre, but I picked it up because the author's novel of King David was absolutely magnificent. But I just didn't get it. It's about some guy who knows God on "another plane," which means he gets very strong urges to do things, the occasional physical breakdown, and can do everything from rehabilitating other people's children to hospice care? I don't know. I like a lot of the individual pieces of this story, but they never came together for me.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews