Virginia Gentleman, a True Story

by Mary Mitchell Barnes

Virginia Gentleman is the heartwarming tale of one girl's journey of self-discovery and teh remarkable horse that carries her through the seasons of change. From innocence to darkness and back, Virginia Gentleman reveals valuable lessons of life and proves that spring emerges out of every winter. Adults of all ages, from teenagers to parents, equestrians and animal lovers alike, will be drawn in and held spellbound by this captivating tale of love. Provoking laughter, tears, inspiration, and bittersweet hope, Virginia Gentleman is the kind of story that seeps under the skin and leaves the human spirit forever changed.

405 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Lola King · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely beautiful book that I could not put down. I don’t think I have ever cried and smiled so much reading a book. The way Mary describes JoAnn, Nancy, and Foxfield is touching and accurate. I am 19 and have grown up riding at Foxfield. Mary captures how it feels to be there and be part of that community. Another thing that is so relatable about this book is how you can take the wrong path, temporarily fall away from not only the sport but the horse/s themselves, yet come back and reconnect with them (and rediscover your true self). Great writing, and such a captivating story about your heart horse. Thank you for sharing, Mary!

(I am only now writing this review after meeting Mary at an estate sale a few years ago- that’s how memorable this is!)

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story of the bond between a horse and his girl. As she went through her self destruction and discovery and finding her way back, her horse never lost his love of his girl. The story of how she got back to her horse and the renewed bond was a beautiful thing.

[JodeJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this 3 times and I cried 3 times as well!!! It's an awesome book!!

[Johanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the "Virginia Gentleman" to be an interesting read about the bond between horse and rider.