Chomping at the Bit: How I Became a Horse Vet

by Matt Evans

272 pages, Paperback

Expected publication September 8, 2026

Reviews

[Shoe Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received for free via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. Matt Evans' book is a delightfully entertaining and lighthearted read. Evans, an equine veterinarian, adopts a unique authorial tone that elicits feelings of sitting down the pub with him on a Friday night having a few drinks and merrily reminiscing. He regales listeners with stories from his early days in the field, flitting between anecdotes with the rambling, enthusiastic charm of a friend who's had one too many pints. Sometimes the connection between them makes sense... Other times it seems he's lost interest in his intended anecdote and finds something he prefers!

While this quirky, stream-of-consciousness style might not suit every reader for a full-length novel, it works perfectly here, creating a memorable experience that lingers long after the final page. The book serves as a validating nod to those who, like me, briefly considered a career in veterinary medicine inspired by the legendary James Heriot. Unlike Evans I decided to ultimately take a different path... Evans' experiences go some way to validating that choice!

Evans successfully humanizes the veterinary profession through relatable, often hilarious, real-life experiences. I certainly plan to recommend this to my friends in the medical and veterinary fields, and I would be happy to read Evans' next book if given the chance. It’s a fun, refreshing departure from typical medical memoirs. Do I prefer it to James Herriot's books? No, they're baked into my memories with well seasoned nostalgia, but I think Evans might be the Millenial equivalent!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

You might look at the book and be skeptical - maybe you’re an exclusive fiction reader and you’ve never picked up biographies or non-fiction in your life. Maybe you’re looking at the concept and thinking it’s too simple to waste your time. Let me tell you, this book was so funny. Within the first few pages I knew I was going to love the humor (I won’t give anything away because the comedic timing was everything and you have to experience it to get the full effect). The author has the voice of like your humble dad who you find out is secretly funny when you read his diary some day. It was a short, inviting read and it was truly my pleasure to read it.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
I needed a humorous book and this was just the book. Usually I get annoyed when authors get off topic and Dr Evans did quite a bit but it was so well done that I didn't mind. I didn't get all of the movie references but that didn't take away from the humor. Reading about his journey through vet school and beyond was interesting. He's very honest in telling about his struggles but the self deprecating humor really made me be on his side and cheer him on. I bet he has grown into a very good vet.

[Billy Seibel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced review fom netgalley:

Are you looking for a quick funny read? If yes, pick up this book.
Matt Evans writes his personal story of becoming a horse vet, through success and failures. This book was written well, has lots of humor and is great to read for horse and non-horse people alike!

Definitely recommend reading this when it goes to print later this year.