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Wild Horses on the Salt
A woman flees an abusive husband and finds hope in the wilds of the Arizona desert.
Rebecca Quinn escapes her controlling husband and, with nowhere else to go, hops the red-eye to Arizona. There, Gaby Strand - her aunt's college roommate - gives her shelter at the Salt River Inn, a 1930's guesthouse located in the wildly beautiful Tonto National Forest.
Becca struggles with post-traumatic stress, but is enthralled by the splendor and fragility of the Sonoran Desert. The once aspiring artist meets Noah Tanner, a cattle rancher and beekeeper, Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist and avid birder, and a blacksmith named Walt. Thanks to her new friends and a small band of wild horses, Becca adjusts to life in the desert and rekindles her love of art.
Then, Becca's husband tracks her down, forcing her to summon all her strength. But can she finally stop running away?
Rebecca Quinn escapes her controlling husband and, with nowhere else to go, hops the red-eye to Arizona. There, Gaby Strand - her aunt's college roommate - gives her shelter at the Salt River Inn, a 1930's guesthouse located in the wildly beautiful Tonto National Forest.
Becca struggles with post-traumatic stress, but is enthralled by the splendor and fragility of the Sonoran Desert. The once aspiring artist meets Noah Tanner, a cattle rancher and beekeeper, Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist and avid birder, and a blacksmith named Walt. Thanks to her new friends and a small band of wild horses, Becca adjusts to life in the desert and rekindles her love of art.
Then, Becca's husband tracks her down, forcing her to summon all her strength. But can she finally stop running away?
343 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2020
14 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Anne Montgomery
8 books36 followers Anne Butler Montgomery has worked as a television sportscaster, newspaper and magazine writer, teacher, amateur baseball umpire, and high school football referee. Her first TV job came at WRBL‐TV in Columbus, Georgia, and led to positions at WROC‐TV in Rochester, New York, KTSP‐TV in Phoenix, Arizona, and ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, where she anchored the Emmy and ACE award‐winning SportsCenter. She finished her on‐camera broadcasting career with a two‐year stint as the studio host for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Montgomery was a freelance and/or staff reporter for six publications, writing sports, features, movie reviews, and archeological pieces. Her previous novels are, The Castle, A Light in the Desert, Wolf Catcher, The Scent of Rain, and Wild Horses on the Salt. Montgomery taught journalism and communications at South Mountain High School in Phoenix for 20 years. She is a foster mom to three sons, and spent 40 years officiating amateur sports, including football, baseball, ice hockey, soccer, and basketball. When she can, she indulges in her passions: rock collecting, scuba diving, musical theater, and playing her guitar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 16, 2024
This book has so much to make it great. I love the wild horses part. The writing style and how slow moving the story was moving is what made it not totally for me. If you like slow moving books this one is for you. It is has a good plot and good characters. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 17, 2020
I found this book to be entertaining and frustrating at the same time. The author deals with one major social theme, domestic violence. It is not an easy theme to write about. It needs to be handled delicately. While the author was very respectful about it, it also lacked a lot of depth. The main character remains as flat as a coin personality wise throughout the book. We never get to feel what she feels, we don't get to experience her anxiety, sadness or hurt. I wish the author would've included flashbacks to Rebecca's life with her husband. She just remains robotic all the time, not just with other characters but we also never get a glance at how Rebecca feels, about how the domestic violence affected her, why she stayed so long, how it started. Yes, the author makes references to all of these but it never goes to a level where the story/feelings would resonate with the reader.
I also felt that the romantic interest for Rebecca was forced and way too rushed. It made no sense to include that. I would've left that whole story line out and I'd have focused on Rebecca more. Why does she need a love interest? And why that guy? Just because he was nice? The author never once hints that Rebecca actually liked him that way, their relationship never deepened. They just went from friends to instant couple. Another missed chance.
There were also chapters that focused on horses and on other animals. While I liked those chapters I really feel confused as to how they were related to the plot or what their purpose was. I do think the author tried to add in a message about perhaps friendships etc. but that also remained on a superficial level.
I enjoyed this book but it was such a mixture of things that made no sense, lacked a lot of depth and remained flat all over. I really feel as if this was a missed opportunity to put certain themes in a spotlight.
I also felt that the romantic interest for Rebecca was forced and way too rushed. It made no sense to include that. I would've left that whole story line out and I'd have focused on Rebecca more. Why does she need a love interest? And why that guy? Just because he was nice? The author never once hints that Rebecca actually liked him that way, their relationship never deepened. They just went from friends to instant couple. Another missed chance.
There were also chapters that focused on horses and on other animals. While I liked those chapters I really feel confused as to how they were related to the plot or what their purpose was. I do think the author tried to add in a message about perhaps friendships etc. but that also remained on a superficial level.
I enjoyed this book but it was such a mixture of things that made no sense, lacked a lot of depth and remained flat all over. I really feel as if this was a missed opportunity to put certain themes in a spotlight.
July 6, 2021
Having enjoyed Anne Montgomery’s ‘A Light in the Desert’, I thought I’d give this new novel a try. I’ve never been to the USA, and frequently find novels set there both self-congratulatory and full of references that are meaningless to me as a UK reader. But the previous novel had managed to avoid those failings, so I was happy to give this one a go.
Becca, the story’s protagonist, is a victim of domestic abuse, one of the themes well represented in the book, from the north-eastern state of New Jersey. As someone familiar with life in a populous region and from a location on the doorstep of New York, she escapes her husband’s prison to find refuge with strangers in the desert lands of the western state of Arizona. The author cleverly uses the geographical contrasts of the two regions to hint at character differences between the inhabitants.
Becca’s story is engaging, depressing, inspiring, difficult, and uplifting as she faces the contrasts of her new life with her old and tries to come to terms with her dreadful upbringing and her mistaken marriage to a cruel, manipulative, self-serving man who sees her as just another possession to be worn as a sign of his perceived success.
Underlying the tale of her new and confusing but promising life is the fear that her jealous, possessive husband may find her and continue his appalling mental, spiritual and physical torture. The relationship of abused women to their tormentors is described with compassion, understanding and some despair.
Becca’s childhood is central to her victimisation, as her parents raised her without love and were concerned only with how she could reflect and elevate their own status by being the person they wished her to be. No concern was ever shown regarding her wishes, no appreciation of her natural talents, by this pair of individuals that consisted of a mother who accepted physical abuse as normal and a father utterly devoid of respect, love, or concern for his daughter’s welfare. The novel sensitively depicts this familial serial tragedy, understanding the inevitable sequencing of behaviour whilst showing that an escape from the vicious circle is possible, given a combination of courage from the victim and a circle of protective and understanding friends.
Running alongside the marital violence story, as a contrast to her own experience, is the loving relationship of Becca’s protectors, her chance to re-invigorate her early enjoyment of art and to rediscover her very real talent with brush and paints.
A second thread, and another theme of the novel, is man’s relationship with nature. In this case represented by the dilemma faced by a burgeoning human population in an area with limited natural resources over the needs of a growing population of feral horses. It’s a fitting metaphor for the world in general as it continues to increase humanity’s overbearing numbers at the expense of all other wildlife and slowly comes to the realisation that the only solution to a serious and urgent problem is to stop the increase in our population. This solution is not stated but is the inevitable conclusion any sensible reader will reach given the facts.
The horse element of the story slightly grated on me with its anthropomorphism. I was inevitably drawn to a comparison with William Horwood’s ‘The Stonor Eagles’, which cleverly combines the fates of a threatened wild species with the rising ambitions and talents of a gifted artist. In that book, however, the eagles’ story is most definitely told from their point of view, without reference to purely human traits or emotions. Nevertheless, the story of the horses is engaging and illuminating, and forms an appropriate contrast to that of Becca.
The characters, an essential element of any fictional work, are real people. There are no carboard cut-outs here. They are well presented, warts and all. But, as with any author thoroughly at home with their characters, they are drawn with compassion and love. Even the wicked antagonist is given some reason for his appalling actions.
There is a tendency for current American novels to give undue attention to certain aspects of life. Food and clothes in particular can almost become starring characters in their own right. Such detailed description underlines the obsessive nature of the country with its excessive consumption, and, in this book, I could never quite decide whether the depiction was a subtle attempt to alert US readers to their destructive greed and excess or simply an innocent and unaware description of everyday life. In fact, as an example of life in white, well-off USA, it does very well.
I enjoyed the read, engaged with the characters, and was able to empathise with most, and at least understand the societal origins of the antagonist’s behaviour and attitudes. A well-rounded story that would be a good read for as many men as the women for whom it is currently promoted.
Becca, the story’s protagonist, is a victim of domestic abuse, one of the themes well represented in the book, from the north-eastern state of New Jersey. As someone familiar with life in a populous region and from a location on the doorstep of New York, she escapes her husband’s prison to find refuge with strangers in the desert lands of the western state of Arizona. The author cleverly uses the geographical contrasts of the two regions to hint at character differences between the inhabitants.
Becca’s story is engaging, depressing, inspiring, difficult, and uplifting as she faces the contrasts of her new life with her old and tries to come to terms with her dreadful upbringing and her mistaken marriage to a cruel, manipulative, self-serving man who sees her as just another possession to be worn as a sign of his perceived success.
Underlying the tale of her new and confusing but promising life is the fear that her jealous, possessive husband may find her and continue his appalling mental, spiritual and physical torture. The relationship of abused women to their tormentors is described with compassion, understanding and some despair.
Becca’s childhood is central to her victimisation, as her parents raised her without love and were concerned only with how she could reflect and elevate their own status by being the person they wished her to be. No concern was ever shown regarding her wishes, no appreciation of her natural talents, by this pair of individuals that consisted of a mother who accepted physical abuse as normal and a father utterly devoid of respect, love, or concern for his daughter’s welfare. The novel sensitively depicts this familial serial tragedy, understanding the inevitable sequencing of behaviour whilst showing that an escape from the vicious circle is possible, given a combination of courage from the victim and a circle of protective and understanding friends.
Running alongside the marital violence story, as a contrast to her own experience, is the loving relationship of Becca’s protectors, her chance to re-invigorate her early enjoyment of art and to rediscover her very real talent with brush and paints.
A second thread, and another theme of the novel, is man’s relationship with nature. In this case represented by the dilemma faced by a burgeoning human population in an area with limited natural resources over the needs of a growing population of feral horses. It’s a fitting metaphor for the world in general as it continues to increase humanity’s overbearing numbers at the expense of all other wildlife and slowly comes to the realisation that the only solution to a serious and urgent problem is to stop the increase in our population. This solution is not stated but is the inevitable conclusion any sensible reader will reach given the facts.
The horse element of the story slightly grated on me with its anthropomorphism. I was inevitably drawn to a comparison with William Horwood’s ‘The Stonor Eagles’, which cleverly combines the fates of a threatened wild species with the rising ambitions and talents of a gifted artist. In that book, however, the eagles’ story is most definitely told from their point of view, without reference to purely human traits or emotions. Nevertheless, the story of the horses is engaging and illuminating, and forms an appropriate contrast to that of Becca.
The characters, an essential element of any fictional work, are real people. There are no carboard cut-outs here. They are well presented, warts and all. But, as with any author thoroughly at home with their characters, they are drawn with compassion and love. Even the wicked antagonist is given some reason for his appalling actions.
There is a tendency for current American novels to give undue attention to certain aspects of life. Food and clothes in particular can almost become starring characters in their own right. Such detailed description underlines the obsessive nature of the country with its excessive consumption, and, in this book, I could never quite decide whether the depiction was a subtle attempt to alert US readers to their destructive greed and excess or simply an innocent and unaware description of everyday life. In fact, as an example of life in white, well-off USA, it does very well.
I enjoyed the read, engaged with the characters, and was able to empathise with most, and at least understand the societal origins of the antagonist’s behaviour and attitudes. A well-rounded story that would be a good read for as many men as the women for whom it is currently promoted.
January 2, 2021
Rebecca Quinn has been stuck in an abusive relationship with her husband, and she cannot handle it any longer. She dealt with abuse growing up with her parents, and so far the cycle is repeating and she wants out. With the help of her Aunt Ruthie she heads out west to a ranch in Arizona.
Rebecca is feeling this is the fresh start she needed. Animals which only give unconditional love and healing to us. New found friends who are only looking out for the good of her. The beauty of nature, and the wild and a man who is showing her the correct way a woman should be treated. With respect and kindness.
Just as Rebecca starts to feel she is healing, and becoming her own person her husband shows up with a vengeance. He is determined to have her back once and for all, and will not leave Arizona unless she is with him. Can Rebecca stay strong enough to finally break the cycle and understand that is not how someone should be treated?
Thank you to the author for reaching out and sending me a free ebook to read and review. I love animals, and this novel really shows how good animals are for us in healing, therapy and friendship and horses are such beautiful animals how can you not want to read about them. I also learned a lot about wild horses and ranches in the west for them.
Rebecca is feeling this is the fresh start she needed. Animals which only give unconditional love and healing to us. New found friends who are only looking out for the good of her. The beauty of nature, and the wild and a man who is showing her the correct way a woman should be treated. With respect and kindness.
Just as Rebecca starts to feel she is healing, and becoming her own person her husband shows up with a vengeance. He is determined to have her back once and for all, and will not leave Arizona unless she is with him. Can Rebecca stay strong enough to finally break the cycle and understand that is not how someone should be treated?
Thank you to the author for reaching out and sending me a free ebook to read and review. I love animals, and this novel really shows how good animals are for us in healing, therapy and friendship and horses are such beautiful animals how can you not want to read about them. I also learned a lot about wild horses and ranches in the west for them.
December 22, 2020
In Anne Montgomery’s novel, “Wild Horses on the Salt,” Becca’s father knocks her mother around. And true to the bewildering, seemingly hereditary disposition of abuse, grownup Becca’s husband knocks her around. Fearing for her life, Becca runs—she runs from New Jersey to Arizona, to Gaby’s remote and idyllic spread lying along the Salt River in the low desert on the fringe of the Tonto National Forest a half hour northeast of Phoenix.
A place to hide is Becca’s motivation. She is too beaten down to covet recovery or a better life, no less, happiness. Little does she know that Gaby’s is a place of magic—oh, not of the Cinderella type of magic, but of the healing type found in the spirit of land and sky and flora and fauna and truly righteous people. While the issue of spousal abuse is an undercurrent of Montgomery’s story, ultimately it is so much more—it is a smorgasbord of relationships, of the animal, plant, and insect kind, each one providing a life lesson for Becca and friends, as well as for the reader.
A most endearing and surprising liaison plays out between the skunk and Red, the resident orange cat. Buddies since birth, Red is complicit in skunk’s nightly raids on the beehives, an infuriating and objectively incurable situation—incurable until Becca and her mates are gifted with an attitude-altering epiphany. Sharing center stage with Becca in Montgomery’s story are the wild horses that roam free in the area, the spotlight focused on a magnificent stallion. He is the leader of a small band of mares. Gravely injured by a speeding car while crossing a highway, the stallion is rescued, corralled, and rehabilitated by caring people. During his time of captivity, the mares go missing. Crazed by the separation from his mares, the horse breaks free and a priceless treatise on his finding his way back to his home turf and mares warms ones heart, especially since his companion on his journey is a little lost sheep. Montgomery writes: “The horse lay in the shelter of a rocky ledge. The sheep, curled next to him, rested against his back. Though the storm, with its pelting rain and blowing wind, had frightened the little animal initially, the steady breathing of the horse and the warmth of his body had calmed her.
“Later, the horse and the sheep came upon a herd of cows grazing placidly along a wire-fence, near a large, brown-and-white sign bearing the words Bureau of Land Management which boasted several jagged bullet holes. The cows paid no attention when the horse and the sheep approached to graze beside them. The spot, which bordered a two-lane road, dipped below the edge of the tarmac and was often rich with tender grasses, the result of runoff. Even before the storm, the area had been popular with this herd of milk cows and calves. Now free from the storm’s treacherous winds, animals and insects emerged from their hiding spots. Birds darted among the black-and white cows, snapping up bugs. A bird with snowy feathers, golden eyes, and a matching beak perched between the shoulder blades of an old cow. The bright white cattle egret was rare in the Sonoran Desert. In fact, the bird that had migrated from Africa to South America in the late nineteenth century had not been seen anywhere in North America until the early 1950s. When cattle egrets did appear in the desert, it was sometimes around irrigated fields or places where grasshoppers and crickets might pop into the air to avoid rising water. The bird was also drawn to the cows because the bovines stirred up insects while grazing in dry fields. But the relationship between the bird and the cow was not one-sided. The egret would tend the animal’s hide while it searched for parasites, plucking the itchy creatures from the cow’s skin and gulping them down.”
The world of nature outside the arrogant human eye is judged chaotic, but on closer look and the vision cleared, the veil of prejudice is lifted and we see that the disorder in fact exists within us. What human being wouldn’t find healing in such creature company as illustrated by Montgomery in this novel? I rate this glorious relationship story with 5 stars, and recommend it as a good choice of reading material during this high holiday season, and as a welcome distraction from the trials of Covid-19.© -Linda Lee Greene, Author & Artist
A place to hide is Becca’s motivation. She is too beaten down to covet recovery or a better life, no less, happiness. Little does she know that Gaby’s is a place of magic—oh, not of the Cinderella type of magic, but of the healing type found in the spirit of land and sky and flora and fauna and truly righteous people. While the issue of spousal abuse is an undercurrent of Montgomery’s story, ultimately it is so much more—it is a smorgasbord of relationships, of the animal, plant, and insect kind, each one providing a life lesson for Becca and friends, as well as for the reader.
A most endearing and surprising liaison plays out between the skunk and Red, the resident orange cat. Buddies since birth, Red is complicit in skunk’s nightly raids on the beehives, an infuriating and objectively incurable situation—incurable until Becca and her mates are gifted with an attitude-altering epiphany. Sharing center stage with Becca in Montgomery’s story are the wild horses that roam free in the area, the spotlight focused on a magnificent stallion. He is the leader of a small band of mares. Gravely injured by a speeding car while crossing a highway, the stallion is rescued, corralled, and rehabilitated by caring people. During his time of captivity, the mares go missing. Crazed by the separation from his mares, the horse breaks free and a priceless treatise on his finding his way back to his home turf and mares warms ones heart, especially since his companion on his journey is a little lost sheep. Montgomery writes: “The horse lay in the shelter of a rocky ledge. The sheep, curled next to him, rested against his back. Though the storm, with its pelting rain and blowing wind, had frightened the little animal initially, the steady breathing of the horse and the warmth of his body had calmed her.
“Later, the horse and the sheep came upon a herd of cows grazing placidly along a wire-fence, near a large, brown-and-white sign bearing the words Bureau of Land Management which boasted several jagged bullet holes. The cows paid no attention when the horse and the sheep approached to graze beside them. The spot, which bordered a two-lane road, dipped below the edge of the tarmac and was often rich with tender grasses, the result of runoff. Even before the storm, the area had been popular with this herd of milk cows and calves. Now free from the storm’s treacherous winds, animals and insects emerged from their hiding spots. Birds darted among the black-and white cows, snapping up bugs. A bird with snowy feathers, golden eyes, and a matching beak perched between the shoulder blades of an old cow. The bright white cattle egret was rare in the Sonoran Desert. In fact, the bird that had migrated from Africa to South America in the late nineteenth century had not been seen anywhere in North America until the early 1950s. When cattle egrets did appear in the desert, it was sometimes around irrigated fields or places where grasshoppers and crickets might pop into the air to avoid rising water. The bird was also drawn to the cows because the bovines stirred up insects while grazing in dry fields. But the relationship between the bird and the cow was not one-sided. The egret would tend the animal’s hide while it searched for parasites, plucking the itchy creatures from the cow’s skin and gulping them down.”
The world of nature outside the arrogant human eye is judged chaotic, but on closer look and the vision cleared, the veil of prejudice is lifted and we see that the disorder in fact exists within us. What human being wouldn’t find healing in such creature company as illustrated by Montgomery in this novel? I rate this glorious relationship story with 5 stars, and recommend it as a good choice of reading material during this high holiday season, and as a welcome distraction from the trials of Covid-19.© -Linda Lee Greene, Author & Artist
March 14, 2022
Okay, so I have mixed feelings about Wild Horses on the Salt by Anne Montgomery. It was the blurb that appealed to me – I love stories about women who overcome adversity and find themselves after escaping a terrible situation. And this book has all the elements that I love – a strong ecological theme, wonderful attention to detail when it comes to describing the natural environment, and a cast of lovely supporting characters. And Montgomery is *almost* there in terms of pulling all the themes together, but it falls ever so slightly short of being a powerfully impactful story in terms of character development. I feel this book tries to do too much, and then doesn't quite hit the mark when it boils down to execution.
If there had been a firmer hand on the reins during the structural edits, these threads could have been tightened and developed better. As it stands, it feels as if the love interest is slightly tacked on, and Rebecca dealing with her abusive, erstwhile husband comes across rushed – the conclusion to this arc far too convenient and reeking of deus ex machina. Rebecca herself as a character, flounders along, not quite developing as a person to transcend her difficult past. What further marred the story for me was the occasional head hopping – not enough to make me want to put down the book, but enough for me to notice and get twitchy.
I feel that the author-narrator voice was not quite strong enough to present us with a credible omniscient viewpoint, so that the shifts, when they happen, feel ever so slightly jarring, and some of the dialogue falls into 'as you know, Bob' territory. When we read scenes from the point of view of animals, such as the stallion, the expression feels too much like a human explaining things about the animal, instead of immersing us in how it might feel to be the animal – that won't be using human terminology to explain things like roads or vehicles. Or maybe I'm just hankering after Elyne Mitchell's brumbies. (And if you've read those books, you'll understand what I mean.)
So, these were my quibbles. Wild Horses on the Salt makes up for it by offering a deep dive into the Arizona desert – and this Montgomery does well, clearly writing with immense love and passion for this beautiful environment and the threats it faces due to human encroachment. She foregrounds the plight of the wild horses, and humans' indifference or outright hostility to conservation efforts.
While the novel gets off to a promising start, I do feel as though the ending was dashed off somewhat, though this wasn't a complete dealbreaker – and a more rigorous bit of editing could also have helped, as the final offering was a little wobbly in places. However, if you're looking for an easy read and a bit of armchair travel, that will take you to a breathtaking destination, then this will be a pleaser.
If there had been a firmer hand on the reins during the structural edits, these threads could have been tightened and developed better. As it stands, it feels as if the love interest is slightly tacked on, and Rebecca dealing with her abusive, erstwhile husband comes across rushed – the conclusion to this arc far too convenient and reeking of deus ex machina. Rebecca herself as a character, flounders along, not quite developing as a person to transcend her difficult past. What further marred the story for me was the occasional head hopping – not enough to make me want to put down the book, but enough for me to notice and get twitchy.
I feel that the author-narrator voice was not quite strong enough to present us with a credible omniscient viewpoint, so that the shifts, when they happen, feel ever so slightly jarring, and some of the dialogue falls into 'as you know, Bob' territory. When we read scenes from the point of view of animals, such as the stallion, the expression feels too much like a human explaining things about the animal, instead of immersing us in how it might feel to be the animal – that won't be using human terminology to explain things like roads or vehicles. Or maybe I'm just hankering after Elyne Mitchell's brumbies. (And if you've read those books, you'll understand what I mean.)
So, these were my quibbles. Wild Horses on the Salt makes up for it by offering a deep dive into the Arizona desert – and this Montgomery does well, clearly writing with immense love and passion for this beautiful environment and the threats it faces due to human encroachment. She foregrounds the plight of the wild horses, and humans' indifference or outright hostility to conservation efforts.
While the novel gets off to a promising start, I do feel as though the ending was dashed off somewhat, though this wasn't a complete dealbreaker – and a more rigorous bit of editing could also have helped, as the final offering was a little wobbly in places. However, if you're looking for an easy read and a bit of armchair travel, that will take you to a breathtaking destination, then this will be a pleaser.
September 14, 2020
We meet Becca at the lowest point in her life. Her aunt has helped to secret her away from her abusive husband, and she's just coming to grips with the reality of it all. Enough was enough...it wasn't getting better, it wasn't going to get any better, and it was time to go. And go she went...but trouble not faced head on has a way of cropping up again when you least expect it...and just when Becca is starting to gain her footing once again in this magically healing place, the worst happens with potentially deadly consequences.
While we're watching Becca grow back into her self, we also get to discover more about the wild horses living in this part of the country, and more specifically one stallion that admits an unusual addition to his team. This particular beauty is hurt by some seriously dullard humans, and while the rescue group is trying to aid in his recovery, you heard about wild horses and fences? Yeah, they're not so keen on them. He makes a getaway and so begins a long journey back to his family with a wooly little companion by his side. I'm sorry, but that little add in, that little friend, made him stand out not only to those whose paths they crossed along the way, but to me as well. It showed what true empathy is, what true family is, what truly caring for life in all its forms really is, and that's a lesson we humans certainly need a good brush up on.
If I've learned anything from this story, it's that there's still beauty to be found in the world even when you think you've reached your rope's end, your true self is enough for those that REALLY count, and there's no shame in admitting you were wrong or asking for help. Recommended for adult readers due to some violent content; possible trigger issues regarding abuse...it's not openly on display, but there's enough to get the gist, and a scene separate from that issue of violence.
**copy received fore review; opinions are my own
While we're watching Becca grow back into her self, we also get to discover more about the wild horses living in this part of the country, and more specifically one stallion that admits an unusual addition to his team. This particular beauty is hurt by some seriously dullard humans, and while the rescue group is trying to aid in his recovery, you heard about wild horses and fences? Yeah, they're not so keen on them. He makes a getaway and so begins a long journey back to his family with a wooly little companion by his side. I'm sorry, but that little add in, that little friend, made him stand out not only to those whose paths they crossed along the way, but to me as well. It showed what true empathy is, what true family is, what truly caring for life in all its forms really is, and that's a lesson we humans certainly need a good brush up on.
If I've learned anything from this story, it's that there's still beauty to be found in the world even when you think you've reached your rope's end, your true self is enough for those that REALLY count, and there's no shame in admitting you were wrong or asking for help. Recommended for adult readers due to some violent content; possible trigger issues regarding abuse...it's not openly on display, but there's enough to get the gist, and a scene separate from that issue of violence.
**copy received fore review; opinions are my own
June 27, 2022
*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Wild Horses on the Salt is an immersive story, that does for the Arizona setting and wildlife what Elyne Mitchell’s books did for Australia – richly vivid nature writing that comes to life around you as you read.
There are two main themes to the plot. Firstly, the potentially-triggering issue of domestic violence and the lasting effects inflicted on its victims. Rebecca’s struggles to leave her old life behind and try to heal from her PTSD with the help of a kind community and the beauty of nature are movingly and realistically explored.
The second theme, running throughout, is that of the effects that humanity have on nature and the environment, both positive and negative. The story touches on everything from hunting, wildlife preservations and animal welfare, to more complex issues of wild and feral animals, natural vs. invasive species and other ecologically-based debates. The author takes care to show the different sides of these issues, and that it isn’t always a simple case of ‘man bad, nature good’ but that we have to take responsibility for our actions in relation to our environment.
And all of this plays out under a slow-paced story about the healing journey of the main character, and her finding a second chance at romance, art and life amid the sheep, skunk and, of course, wild horses.
I found myself invested in the fates of all of the characters – animal as well as human. Well, almost all of them… the abusive ex-husband is the stuff of nightmares or horror films and I couldn’t bring myself to care about what happened to him!
This is a moving story about abuse, recovery and the healing power of nature, and it is a love story to the deserts, forests, rivers and wildlife of Arizona.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Wild Horses on the Salt is an immersive story, that does for the Arizona setting and wildlife what Elyne Mitchell’s books did for Australia – richly vivid nature writing that comes to life around you as you read.
There are two main themes to the plot. Firstly, the potentially-triggering issue of domestic violence and the lasting effects inflicted on its victims. Rebecca’s struggles to leave her old life behind and try to heal from her PTSD with the help of a kind community and the beauty of nature are movingly and realistically explored.
The second theme, running throughout, is that of the effects that humanity have on nature and the environment, both positive and negative. The story touches on everything from hunting, wildlife preservations and animal welfare, to more complex issues of wild and feral animals, natural vs. invasive species and other ecologically-based debates. The author takes care to show the different sides of these issues, and that it isn’t always a simple case of ‘man bad, nature good’ but that we have to take responsibility for our actions in relation to our environment.
And all of this plays out under a slow-paced story about the healing journey of the main character, and her finding a second chance at romance, art and life amid the sheep, skunk and, of course, wild horses.
I found myself invested in the fates of all of the characters – animal as well as human. Well, almost all of them… the abusive ex-husband is the stuff of nightmares or horror films and I couldn’t bring myself to care about what happened to him!
This is a moving story about abuse, recovery and the healing power of nature, and it is a love story to the deserts, forests, rivers and wildlife of Arizona.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
March 24, 2021
4.5 STARS
Rebecca (Becca) is staying at the Salt River Inn in Arizona ... a guesthouse run by her aunt's college friend. Becca desperately needed a place to hide from her abusive, manipulative husband ... she literally is running for her life.
Becca grew up in the family home where her father abused her mother ... and her mother put up with the broken bones, black eyes ... always an excuse, always blamed herself rather than her husband. So it's no surprise that Becca has never filed charges against her husband. when she finally realized that the day would come when he tried to kill her, that she turned to her aunt for help.
She's dealing with PTSD, flashbacks and nightmares that leave her shaken to the core. But the beautiful Arizona desert ... and a small bank of wild horses... seem to be healing her soul.
Making new friends, she adjusts to her new life .. .and finally returns to the one thing she always wanted to do.
But then "he" shows up ... demanding that she return home. Her new friends protect her ... but at what cost?
Running alongside Becca's story is the story of a magnificent horse, once wounded and placed in a protective place. however, he has escaped and looking for his herd. He finds himself an uninvited companion who follows him relentlessly.
I have resided in Arizona for many years .. and over time, I think I've forgotten just how beautiful this area is. This story makes me want to pack my bags and make some day trips. The author .. herself an Arizona resident .. has done a fine job in describing the real Arizona.
This is a well-written story, the parallel stories are about a horse and a woman who are each, in their own way, looking to find where they belong. The characters are solidly drawn ... cattle rancher and beekeeper ... an ardent birder and psychiatrist ... a blacksmith who cooks gourmet meals .. and Gaby, her aunt's friend.
The suspense is not knowing what Becca will do when her husband shows up ... what will her husband to get her back where he wants her. And what will he do to the man who finds his wife attractive.
The backstory on wild horses was most interesting ... no matter which side of the debate you are on. I especially enjoyed this one particular horse and his new companion .. who is not another horse.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this fictional novel. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Rebecca (Becca) is staying at the Salt River Inn in Arizona ... a guesthouse run by her aunt's college friend. Becca desperately needed a place to hide from her abusive, manipulative husband ... she literally is running for her life.
Becca grew up in the family home where her father abused her mother ... and her mother put up with the broken bones, black eyes ... always an excuse, always blamed herself rather than her husband. So it's no surprise that Becca has never filed charges against her husband. when she finally realized that the day would come when he tried to kill her, that she turned to her aunt for help.
She's dealing with PTSD, flashbacks and nightmares that leave her shaken to the core. But the beautiful Arizona desert ... and a small bank of wild horses... seem to be healing her soul.
Making new friends, she adjusts to her new life .. .and finally returns to the one thing she always wanted to do.
But then "he" shows up ... demanding that she return home. Her new friends protect her ... but at what cost?
Running alongside Becca's story is the story of a magnificent horse, once wounded and placed in a protective place. however, he has escaped and looking for his herd. He finds himself an uninvited companion who follows him relentlessly.
I have resided in Arizona for many years .. and over time, I think I've forgotten just how beautiful this area is. This story makes me want to pack my bags and make some day trips. The author .. herself an Arizona resident .. has done a fine job in describing the real Arizona.
This is a well-written story, the parallel stories are about a horse and a woman who are each, in their own way, looking to find where they belong. The characters are solidly drawn ... cattle rancher and beekeeper ... an ardent birder and psychiatrist ... a blacksmith who cooks gourmet meals .. and Gaby, her aunt's friend.
The suspense is not knowing what Becca will do when her husband shows up ... what will her husband to get her back where he wants her. And what will he do to the man who finds his wife attractive.
The backstory on wild horses was most interesting ... no matter which side of the debate you are on. I especially enjoyed this one particular horse and his new companion .. who is not another horse.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this fictional novel. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 24, 2021
This richly detailed romantic suspense story follows a woman from New Jersey's plush homes as she lands a maid's job in a holiday site near Phoenix, Arizona. Why should Rebecca change her fortunes in this way? As she quietly fits into the scenic lodge's staff and learns about the nature of the Salt River area, she reveals that her husband has been abusive and she has fled.
We don't get told how the husband finds Becca - but it was inevitable, so I'm not giving anything away. My theory is that he tracks her through a necklace which she pawns. Bad as this situation becomes, we see that only by facing a fear can we see truth, and by being decisive, we lead our own lives.
A subplot runs along with a bright bay stallion who grazes wild with his mares. The horse is under constant threat from louts with guns, the seemingly ubiquitous form of life as towns sprawl into the American wilderness. This story shows what encroaching human habitation does to the desert, and how a number of nature lovers help rescue birds, large animals and even watercourses. The author may be even a little too careful in trying to show both sides of the story.
I enjoyed the story, which is gently paced to halfway and then bristles with menace. If you have read or viewed Sleeping With The Enemy, the plot will seem familiar, but the striking setting saves the works from comparison. The author, who has been a journalist and taught journalism, also encourages people suffering domestic abuse to make plans and get help or leave.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
We don't get told how the husband finds Becca - but it was inevitable, so I'm not giving anything away. My theory is that he tracks her through a necklace which she pawns. Bad as this situation becomes, we see that only by facing a fear can we see truth, and by being decisive, we lead our own lives.
A subplot runs along with a bright bay stallion who grazes wild with his mares. The horse is under constant threat from louts with guns, the seemingly ubiquitous form of life as towns sprawl into the American wilderness. This story shows what encroaching human habitation does to the desert, and how a number of nature lovers help rescue birds, large animals and even watercourses. The author may be even a little too careful in trying to show both sides of the story.
I enjoyed the story, which is gently paced to halfway and then bristles with menace. If you have read or viewed Sleeping With The Enemy, the plot will seem familiar, but the striking setting saves the works from comparison. The author, who has been a journalist and taught journalism, also encourages people suffering domestic abuse to make plans and get help or leave.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
August 29, 2020
I was very impressed with my first book by this author. I loved the subject of wild horses, and felt the domestic abuse was sensitively portrayed.
Rebecca Quinn is the victim of domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. The former artist was educated as a lawyer, which she hated, but was bullied into by her parents, who raised her in a house filled with physical and psychological abuse.
Her Aunt Ruthie helps her find refuge with old college roommate Gaby Strand, who owns The Salt River Inn, situated in the spectacular Tonto National Forest in the Sonoran Desert.
Gaby runs the inn with her boyfriend Walt, a metal artist and cook.
They don't know the details of Becca's problems, but they have suspicions based on the bruises and injuries she is trying to conceal. They try and keep her safe and busy as she works out her issues and decides what she needs to do.
As she rediscovers her artistic side, Becca begins to realize she must escape the abuse that has followed her entire life, once and for all.
She meets a neighbor of the inn, cattle rancher Noah Tanner, and their delicate friendship helps begin the healing process.
But when Becca's husband catches up to her, he doesn't intend to ever let her go.
Interspersed within the story, we learn the plight of the wild horses of The Salt River and the real dilemmas they face.
A powerful and moving book filled with the natural beauty of Arizona and its wildlife.
A wonderfully told emotional tale, it swept me away!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Smith Publicity for the gifted copy.
Rebecca Quinn is the victim of domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. The former artist was educated as a lawyer, which she hated, but was bullied into by her parents, who raised her in a house filled with physical and psychological abuse.
Her Aunt Ruthie helps her find refuge with old college roommate Gaby Strand, who owns The Salt River Inn, situated in the spectacular Tonto National Forest in the Sonoran Desert.
Gaby runs the inn with her boyfriend Walt, a metal artist and cook.
They don't know the details of Becca's problems, but they have suspicions based on the bruises and injuries she is trying to conceal. They try and keep her safe and busy as she works out her issues and decides what she needs to do.
As she rediscovers her artistic side, Becca begins to realize she must escape the abuse that has followed her entire life, once and for all.
She meets a neighbor of the inn, cattle rancher Noah Tanner, and their delicate friendship helps begin the healing process.
But when Becca's husband catches up to her, he doesn't intend to ever let her go.
Interspersed within the story, we learn the plight of the wild horses of The Salt River and the real dilemmas they face.
A powerful and moving book filled with the natural beauty of Arizona and its wildlife.
A wonderfully told emotional tale, it swept me away!
Thank you to the author, publisher and Smith Publicity for the gifted copy.
October 19, 2020
This is Rebecca's story, after leaving a very traumatic time in her life, she escapes far away from a very bad relationship, she ends up in Arizona, where she meets a few new people including Noah and also some wild horses. Will her past catch up with her? will she finally be free from her past? I found it a really sad story, Rebecca has been through a lot and I wished for her to find peace and happiness. I liked the setting of this story and the small details really make a difference. I liked the parts about the wild horses as I love horses, it was also interesting to learn about the way they are managed in the wild. I found the ending was a little predictable but I really enjoyed the story.
July 5, 2021
Listening to this story is a good experience. Author Anne Montgomery deals with the complex issues surrounding domestic violence. Rebecca Quinn, Becca, flees from New Jersey to Arizona to hide from her abusive husband. Becca’s Aunt Ruthie attended college in Arizona and roomed with Gaby Strand. Aunt Ruthie recommended Becca escape to Gaby’s home along the Salt River at the edge of Tonto National Forest. She arrives exhausted and beaten down, then wonders why she traveled to this place so different from anything she knew.
The details of the plight of the wild horses and how they are abused dovetail Becca’s struggles. Gaby provides a haven to Becca filled with a simpler life. The desert related as a magic healing ground is home to other creatures trying to survive. A delightful vignette between a resident skunk and the cat, Red, highlights the power of positive relationships.
“ Later that evening, the skunk rose from a hollow-log burrow beneath thick, browned bushes that had turned with the low nighttime temperatures. It didn’t see well but required no visual cue to locate its target. The animal waddled along a line of mesquite trees that bordered a rocky stream, which sometimes provided a tasty crayfish or two, then cut across a small open field. A circle of rectangular white boxes stood in the center of the pasture.
The skunk hurried now, exited by the smell, its keen olfactory senses equal to its excellent hearing. A soft sound brought the animal to an abrupt halt. It sniffed at the air but didn’t notice the twin green orbs glowing from beside one of the boxes. After a while, the skunk took a tentative step. Then another. She pointed her snout to the sky, from where her only true predator generally attacked and listened for the whoosh of massive wings, a great horned owl that could easily carry her off. "
When Becca befriends a stallion leader of a small band of wild horses. The stallion is hit by a motorist and rescued. Nature supplies a backdrop that this author weaves throughout the story. Her realistic descriptions paint the pictures, as they also bring out the sounds and smells of the environment. The people Becca meets help her deal with her abusive background learned from her parents’ relationship. She slowly develops skills to help her trust herself and the abilities she earned before her awful relationship. Becca is introduced to Noah by Gaby. Noah provides a new perspective on men and supports her desire for independence.
The pace of the voiceover by Patricia Shade is superb. The narration was clear and concise as the characters' dialogues were discernable with different tones. There were no problems with the quality of this audible. I recommend this to people who like detailed stories of survival efforts and enjoy a steady build to the surprising end. The location in Arizona is one I visited several times and appreciated the raw beauty. You will learn about animals, places, and the connectedness of life.
The details of the plight of the wild horses and how they are abused dovetail Becca’s struggles. Gaby provides a haven to Becca filled with a simpler life. The desert related as a magic healing ground is home to other creatures trying to survive. A delightful vignette between a resident skunk and the cat, Red, highlights the power of positive relationships.
“ Later that evening, the skunk rose from a hollow-log burrow beneath thick, browned bushes that had turned with the low nighttime temperatures. It didn’t see well but required no visual cue to locate its target. The animal waddled along a line of mesquite trees that bordered a rocky stream, which sometimes provided a tasty crayfish or two, then cut across a small open field. A circle of rectangular white boxes stood in the center of the pasture.
The skunk hurried now, exited by the smell, its keen olfactory senses equal to its excellent hearing. A soft sound brought the animal to an abrupt halt. It sniffed at the air but didn’t notice the twin green orbs glowing from beside one of the boxes. After a while, the skunk took a tentative step. Then another. She pointed her snout to the sky, from where her only true predator generally attacked and listened for the whoosh of massive wings, a great horned owl that could easily carry her off. "
When Becca befriends a stallion leader of a small band of wild horses. The stallion is hit by a motorist and rescued. Nature supplies a backdrop that this author weaves throughout the story. Her realistic descriptions paint the pictures, as they also bring out the sounds and smells of the environment. The people Becca meets help her deal with her abusive background learned from her parents’ relationship. She slowly develops skills to help her trust herself and the abilities she earned before her awful relationship. Becca is introduced to Noah by Gaby. Noah provides a new perspective on men and supports her desire for independence.
The pace of the voiceover by Patricia Shade is superb. The narration was clear and concise as the characters' dialogues were discernable with different tones. There were no problems with the quality of this audible. I recommend this to people who like detailed stories of survival efforts and enjoy a steady build to the surprising end. The location in Arizona is one I visited several times and appreciated the raw beauty. You will learn about animals, places, and the connectedness of life.
July 15, 2021
Helped by her Aunt Ruthie, Becca Quinn flees her violent and abusive marriage in New Jersey to the Salt River Inn in Arizona owned by Ruthie’s old friend, Gaby. Slowly the desert environment and quiet compassion of the locals begins to heal her, until the Inn opens for guests and one of them is terrifyingly familiar to Becca…
Wild Horses On The Salt is a beautifully considered novel that envelops the reader in the natural world. The desert setting, climate and creatures are wonderfully realised, richly detailed and immersive – almost like a painting which is ironic given that Becca rekindles her artistic soul at the Salt River Inn.
The opening is confidently written. It’s fairly obvious what’s happened to Becca as she wakes on her first morning at the Salt River Inn but there are enough missing details to engage the reader and the story builds nicely; the prose is deceptively intricate and there are a series of subtle twists in all directions.
However, while the wealth of descriptive detail is the book’s undeniable strength, it is also its weakness. At times, it needed reining in a little in order to quicken the pace. Nonetheless, the chapters are very short which does help the tempo and are written from multiple points of view, in third person, giving everything a rounded perspective. The chapters involving the horse and sheep are achingly sweet with a touch of fable to them which rendered them quite poignant. The wild horses run throughout the novel, literally and metaphorically, and their plight, which Ms. Montgomery highlights, is one which sparks impassioned debate but unfortunately, little conclusion.
Gaby and her blacksmith partner, Walt, are lovely characters as is Oscar, the ornithological psychiatrist. The supporting cast are all given layers of interest and authenticity and it really brings them to life. Becca is occasionally hard to involve with, although this is understandable, it does make her a little frustrating in places.
Wild Horses On The Salt could have been a straightforward narrative of surviving abuse but Ms. Montgomery includes a gentle, hesitant romance angle with cattle rancher, Noah Tanner; it works believably and also provides a good contrast to the harrowing flashbacks that Becca has of her time with her husband.
Indeed, just over halfway through, Wild Horses On The Salt takes on the mantle of a thriller. I found elements of the last quarter to be quite frightening and the mental abuse and mind-games are chilling. Personally, I would have liked to have seen her husband made to atone further and also, Becca’s parents, who have to take considerable blame.
Word of warning – don’t read this book on an empty stomach. The food that Walt prepares at the Salt River Inn is described in such mouth-watering detail, it begins to distract from the story!
Wild Horses On The Salt is a sumptuous, thoughtful novel from a skilled storyteller. Highly recommended.
Wild Horses On The Salt is a beautifully considered novel that envelops the reader in the natural world. The desert setting, climate and creatures are wonderfully realised, richly detailed and immersive – almost like a painting which is ironic given that Becca rekindles her artistic soul at the Salt River Inn.
The opening is confidently written. It’s fairly obvious what’s happened to Becca as she wakes on her first morning at the Salt River Inn but there are enough missing details to engage the reader and the story builds nicely; the prose is deceptively intricate and there are a series of subtle twists in all directions.
However, while the wealth of descriptive detail is the book’s undeniable strength, it is also its weakness. At times, it needed reining in a little in order to quicken the pace. Nonetheless, the chapters are very short which does help the tempo and are written from multiple points of view, in third person, giving everything a rounded perspective. The chapters involving the horse and sheep are achingly sweet with a touch of fable to them which rendered them quite poignant. The wild horses run throughout the novel, literally and metaphorically, and their plight, which Ms. Montgomery highlights, is one which sparks impassioned debate but unfortunately, little conclusion.
Gaby and her blacksmith partner, Walt, are lovely characters as is Oscar, the ornithological psychiatrist. The supporting cast are all given layers of interest and authenticity and it really brings them to life. Becca is occasionally hard to involve with, although this is understandable, it does make her a little frustrating in places.
Wild Horses On The Salt could have been a straightforward narrative of surviving abuse but Ms. Montgomery includes a gentle, hesitant romance angle with cattle rancher, Noah Tanner; it works believably and also provides a good contrast to the harrowing flashbacks that Becca has of her time with her husband.
Indeed, just over halfway through, Wild Horses On The Salt takes on the mantle of a thriller. I found elements of the last quarter to be quite frightening and the mental abuse and mind-games are chilling. Personally, I would have liked to have seen her husband made to atone further and also, Becca’s parents, who have to take considerable blame.
Word of warning – don’t read this book on an empty stomach. The food that Walt prepares at the Salt River Inn is described in such mouth-watering detail, it begins to distract from the story!
Wild Horses On The Salt is a sumptuous, thoughtful novel from a skilled storyteller. Highly recommended.
September 28, 2020
Wild Horses on the Salt is a moving story about Becca, a victim of domestic violence, who leaves her husband and seeks refuge at The Salt River Inn, an inn run by a friend of Becca’s aunt. Physically and emotionally wounded, Becca is embraced by Gaby, the inn owner, and her partner Walt, a gifted metal artist and cook.
Gaby and Walt don’t know exactly what happened to Becca, but they offer support and respite. Gaby also meets and develops a friendship with Noah, a neighbor and friend to Gaby and Walt, and slowly begins to heal. However, Becca can’t avoid her past forever. When her husband hunts her down, intent on taking her home, and Becca’s life takes a dangerous turn, Becca must find the strength to escape her husband once and for all.
Becca is a victim of abuse. She witnessed verbal and physical abuse growing up and married a man exactly like her father. She knew no different and is astounded to realize that this isn’t the norm. I felt for Becca throughout the story. She is wounded and suffering from severe PTSD. I love that Becca rediscovers her love of art and uses it to process her feelings. I also love how much nature and her love of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona brings her peace.
Interspersed throughout the novel is the amazing story of a wild horse. Wounded, then penned and feeling trapped, the horse escapes and begins a journey in search of his family. The horse’s journey very much parallels Becca’s story, complete with a new friend to guide him.
The kind people that Becca meets while at The Salt River Inn also contribute to Becca’s healing. Gaby, Walt, Oscar, and others show her a different way of life – a life filled with hard work, love, respect, and taking the time to slow down and enjoy the little joys in life. They give her the freedom to heal at her own pace and encourage her to explore her interests. Becca is fortunate to have such a lovely support system during such a difficult time.
Though the love story is not the main focus of the novel, it’s a lovely addition to the story. Becca meets Noah through Gaby and Walt, and a friendship begins. Noah understands Becca well and is patient and kind. He is so different from Becca’s husband. I enjoyed this slow-building relationship and hoped that Becca found the happy ending that she deserved.
A poignant story about domestic violence, the beauty of nature, and the plight of the wild horses of the Salt River, Wild Horses on the Salt is a powerful and moving read. I love the vivid and beautiful setting, the dynamic characters, and the strong messages of perseverance and finding oneself. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Gaby and Walt don’t know exactly what happened to Becca, but they offer support and respite. Gaby also meets and develops a friendship with Noah, a neighbor and friend to Gaby and Walt, and slowly begins to heal. However, Becca can’t avoid her past forever. When her husband hunts her down, intent on taking her home, and Becca’s life takes a dangerous turn, Becca must find the strength to escape her husband once and for all.
Becca is a victim of abuse. She witnessed verbal and physical abuse growing up and married a man exactly like her father. She knew no different and is astounded to realize that this isn’t the norm. I felt for Becca throughout the story. She is wounded and suffering from severe PTSD. I love that Becca rediscovers her love of art and uses it to process her feelings. I also love how much nature and her love of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona brings her peace.
Interspersed throughout the novel is the amazing story of a wild horse. Wounded, then penned and feeling trapped, the horse escapes and begins a journey in search of his family. The horse’s journey very much parallels Becca’s story, complete with a new friend to guide him.
The kind people that Becca meets while at The Salt River Inn also contribute to Becca’s healing. Gaby, Walt, Oscar, and others show her a different way of life – a life filled with hard work, love, respect, and taking the time to slow down and enjoy the little joys in life. They give her the freedom to heal at her own pace and encourage her to explore her interests. Becca is fortunate to have such a lovely support system during such a difficult time.
Though the love story is not the main focus of the novel, it’s a lovely addition to the story. Becca meets Noah through Gaby and Walt, and a friendship begins. Noah understands Becca well and is patient and kind. He is so different from Becca’s husband. I enjoyed this slow-building relationship and hoped that Becca found the happy ending that she deserved.
A poignant story about domestic violence, the beauty of nature, and the plight of the wild horses of the Salt River, Wild Horses on the Salt is a powerful and moving read. I love the vivid and beautiful setting, the dynamic characters, and the strong messages of perseverance and finding oneself. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2020
In Anne Montgomery’s novel Wild Horses on the Salt, Rebecca “Becca” Quinn knows her life will never get better unless she escapes her cruel and abusive husband.
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Battered and bruised, her sense of self-worth in tatters, Becca leaves her life in New Jersey and flies out to Arizona. Waiting for Becca is Gaby, her aunt’s college roommate. Gaby gives Becca a place to hide and heal at the Salt River Inn.
Not only does Becca connect with Gaby, she also bonds with Gaby’s gentleman friend Walt, a local blacksmith, and Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist with a passion for bird watching.
And Becca also becomes acquainted with cattle rancher and bee keeper Noah Tanner. Noah just might be the man to rekindle her belief in love and to value herself as a worthy human being.
Other than her group of supportive friends and the splendor of Arizona including wild horses, Becca also indulges in her true passion-art. This passion gives her life more meaning and joy than her previous vocation as a lawyer.
On her path to wholeness, Becca has time to reflect on how her dysfunctional upbringing caused her to end up in the arms of an abusive man. She also comes to terms on how her parents’ rigidity forced her into a career as a lawyer, instead of the life of an artist.
Yet, Becca’s past will not define her. Her talent as an artist gathers her some much deserved praise and success. She learns more about the plight of Arizona’s wild horses and how to recognize various birds. She also becomes closer to Noah whose kindness and decency help heal her. Will Noah be a part of her new life or will he be a romantic disappointment?
However, Becca’s husband finds her in Arizona. He goes to horrific lengths to claim her and take her back to New Jersey. It’s at this point Becca must find her inner strength to defy him and be the powerful survivor she is. She refuses to be a victim.
Though a bit slow at times, Wild Horses on the Salt is vividly descriptive and an important story about overcoming terrible odds. Becca is a heroine you root for and can relate to.
Originally published at The Book Self.
https://thebookselfblog.wordpress.com...
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Battered and bruised, her sense of self-worth in tatters, Becca leaves her life in New Jersey and flies out to Arizona. Waiting for Becca is Gaby, her aunt’s college roommate. Gaby gives Becca a place to hide and heal at the Salt River Inn.
Not only does Becca connect with Gaby, she also bonds with Gaby’s gentleman friend Walt, a local blacksmith, and Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist with a passion for bird watching.
And Becca also becomes acquainted with cattle rancher and bee keeper Noah Tanner. Noah just might be the man to rekindle her belief in love and to value herself as a worthy human being.
Other than her group of supportive friends and the splendor of Arizona including wild horses, Becca also indulges in her true passion-art. This passion gives her life more meaning and joy than her previous vocation as a lawyer.
On her path to wholeness, Becca has time to reflect on how her dysfunctional upbringing caused her to end up in the arms of an abusive man. She also comes to terms on how her parents’ rigidity forced her into a career as a lawyer, instead of the life of an artist.
Yet, Becca’s past will not define her. Her talent as an artist gathers her some much deserved praise and success. She learns more about the plight of Arizona’s wild horses and how to recognize various birds. She also becomes closer to Noah whose kindness and decency help heal her. Will Noah be a part of her new life or will he be a romantic disappointment?
However, Becca’s husband finds her in Arizona. He goes to horrific lengths to claim her and take her back to New Jersey. It’s at this point Becca must find her inner strength to defy him and be the powerful survivor she is. She refuses to be a victim.
Though a bit slow at times, Wild Horses on the Salt is vividly descriptive and an important story about overcoming terrible odds. Becca is a heroine you root for and can relate to.
Originally published at The Book Self.
https://thebookselfblog.wordpress.com...
October 3, 2020
“I have seen things so beautiful they have brought tears to my eyes. Yet not of them can match the gracefulness and beauty of a horse running free.”
Unknown
Rating: 📚📚📚📚
This book follows Rebecca Quinn as she journey’s her way through life, love, healing, and self-discovery.
Rebecca has just escaped a long marriage filled with violence. She has a history of abuse from her parents, which would explain why she waited so long before leaving her husband.
She fears for her life and enlists the help of her Aunt Ruthie. She sends her to Salt River Inn, run by her friend Gabriella, Gabby, Strand.
The Inn’s location is in the Tonto National Forest, in the Sonoran Desert. Salt is where Becca attempts to rebuild her life and start to discover herself. She meets an array of characters, Noah, Oliver, Gaby, and Walt, during her stay at the Inn. All of whom have had an impact on her recovery process.
“The wound would finally disappear from her skin, but not from her soul.”
Wild Horses on the Salt
Rebecca is trying to be strong, but the PTSD is holding her back. Noah senses she needs a friend and tries to be there for her, ears open and hand held out, and ready to help. They develop a friendship that turns into more.
Her husband tracks her down and ensures that he doesn’t ever intend to let her go. His reappearance strikes a fear back in her. Will she ever be free of him? Will she ever be free to be herself and happy?
The book also talks about wild horses—one horse’s journey to finding his family and helping another furry little creature hurt by humans. It ties perfectly with the story as Rebecca is trying to find a way home, a place to call home, and recovering with friends’ help.
Friendship and abuse are heavy themes in this book. Wild Horse’s on the Salt is about escaping a bad situation, enlisting the help of friends, battling your demons, and surviving all that threatens to tear you down. This book is about finding the beauty in the world, honing in on it, incorporating it into your life, and appreciating it once you find it.
Unknown
Rating: 📚📚📚📚
This book follows Rebecca Quinn as she journey’s her way through life, love, healing, and self-discovery.
Rebecca has just escaped a long marriage filled with violence. She has a history of abuse from her parents, which would explain why she waited so long before leaving her husband.
She fears for her life and enlists the help of her Aunt Ruthie. She sends her to Salt River Inn, run by her friend Gabriella, Gabby, Strand.
The Inn’s location is in the Tonto National Forest, in the Sonoran Desert. Salt is where Becca attempts to rebuild her life and start to discover herself. She meets an array of characters, Noah, Oliver, Gaby, and Walt, during her stay at the Inn. All of whom have had an impact on her recovery process.
“The wound would finally disappear from her skin, but not from her soul.”
Wild Horses on the Salt
Rebecca is trying to be strong, but the PTSD is holding her back. Noah senses she needs a friend and tries to be there for her, ears open and hand held out, and ready to help. They develop a friendship that turns into more.
Her husband tracks her down and ensures that he doesn’t ever intend to let her go. His reappearance strikes a fear back in her. Will she ever be free of him? Will she ever be free to be herself and happy?
The book also talks about wild horses—one horse’s journey to finding his family and helping another furry little creature hurt by humans. It ties perfectly with the story as Rebecca is trying to find a way home, a place to call home, and recovering with friends’ help.
Friendship and abuse are heavy themes in this book. Wild Horse’s on the Salt is about escaping a bad situation, enlisting the help of friends, battling your demons, and surviving all that threatens to tear you down. This book is about finding the beauty in the world, honing in on it, incorporating it into your life, and appreciating it once you find it.
June 15, 2020
Wild Horses On The Salt by Anne Montgomery. Rebecca “Becca” Quinn is an abused woman. When she flees for her life she takes refuge at The Salt River Inn, in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. The Salt River Inn is l owned by Gabriella Strand, who was her Aunt Ruthie’s college roommate. When her Aunt found out how bad things had become she knew Becca would be safe with Gaby.
Becca had gone to college to be a lawyer, but that was something she ended up hating. She was an artist with a soul that was starving to express itself. Later, she tries to call off her impending marriage to her husband, her mother guilts her into going through with it. Being that her future husband was quite wealthy. When Becca finally realizes that he will eventually kill her she tells her Aunt who helps her escape. As Becca begins her journey in the scenic Tonto National Forest, she finds healing and solace in the desert. She finds amazing people in Gaby, Walt and Noah Tanner. Noah knows that Becca needs healing. He becomes the friend that she needs to walk along side her through this journey of healing. Noah and her beautiful surroundings begin to reignite the fire in her soul to be an artist. But unfortunately Becca’s husband finds her and she will comes face to face with her abuser. Is she strong enough to stand her ground? Will she be able to survive.
This was a beautiful and sometimes dark story of abuse and PTSD. Becca recalling different events of abuse at times turned my stomach and made my heart ache for her. You can tell that the abuse has taken its toll on her. She finds friendship and understanding in Noah.
The story beautifully portrays the desert surroundings that lend to healing process for Becca!
An added bonus is the story of The Salt River Horses. What an amazing added Author Note at the end that further explains the situation. Even the acknowledgements at the end were quite interesting.
Becca had gone to college to be a lawyer, but that was something she ended up hating. She was an artist with a soul that was starving to express itself. Later, she tries to call off her impending marriage to her husband, her mother guilts her into going through with it. Being that her future husband was quite wealthy. When Becca finally realizes that he will eventually kill her she tells her Aunt who helps her escape. As Becca begins her journey in the scenic Tonto National Forest, she finds healing and solace in the desert. She finds amazing people in Gaby, Walt and Noah Tanner. Noah knows that Becca needs healing. He becomes the friend that she needs to walk along side her through this journey of healing. Noah and her beautiful surroundings begin to reignite the fire in her soul to be an artist. But unfortunately Becca’s husband finds her and she will comes face to face with her abuser. Is she strong enough to stand her ground? Will she be able to survive.
This was a beautiful and sometimes dark story of abuse and PTSD. Becca recalling different events of abuse at times turned my stomach and made my heart ache for her. You can tell that the abuse has taken its toll on her. She finds friendship and understanding in Noah.
The story beautifully portrays the desert surroundings that lend to healing process for Becca!
An added bonus is the story of The Salt River Horses. What an amazing added Author Note at the end that further explains the situation. Even the acknowledgements at the end were quite interesting.
June 17, 2020
Wild Horses on the Salt by Anne Montgomery is an intriguing novel, which takes place outside of Phoenix, Arizona. I was drawn to it for that reason and I enjoyed it partially for that reason. Becca has run away from home and come to Arizona at the behest of her aunt Ruthie who has been friends with Gaby for years. Gaby owns the Salt River Inn, a guest ranch and celebration venue outside of Phoenix on the Salt River. She lives there with her cook and significant other, Walt. Walt is a metal artist who makes mostly Western-themed, large items, like gates. Becca has told no one why she is here, but Gaby and Walt Suspect abuse based on the bruises on her face and the way she clutches her ribs. They are giving her time by letting her settle into their life running the inn and meeting their friends. They have reintroduced her to her art, which she had given up and she is happy, until her husband shows up.
This is a story of abuse ... all too common, sadly, and of the woman who allowed it to happen to her, until she gained the strength to stop it. Becca had grown up in a home where abuse was the norm and so she was attracted to the same kind of man. It's a horror story, but a true one. The story is also about the desert and people who love it and try to care for it. It is about Wild Horses as the title tells you, but also about brush fires, cattle ranching, the weather, and people living solid lives. It is a wonderful book, especially if you live that life yourself, in the beautiful desert. It is a romance, not just between men and woman, but between people and a place. Montgomery captured it and accurately, too. This was an engrossing read, despite the abuse. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of Wild Horses of the Salt from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #wildhorsesonthesalt
This is a story of abuse ... all too common, sadly, and of the woman who allowed it to happen to her, until she gained the strength to stop it. Becca had grown up in a home where abuse was the norm and so she was attracted to the same kind of man. It's a horror story, but a true one. The story is also about the desert and people who love it and try to care for it. It is about Wild Horses as the title tells you, but also about brush fires, cattle ranching, the weather, and people living solid lives. It is a wonderful book, especially if you live that life yourself, in the beautiful desert. It is a romance, not just between men and woman, but between people and a place. Montgomery captured it and accurately, too. This was an engrossing read, despite the abuse. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of Wild Horses of the Salt from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #wildhorsesonthesalt
June 25, 2020
Fantastic page-turner
The story revolves around a young woman who flees an abusive relationship and finds hope in the wilds of the Arizona desert. The once aspiring artist meets Noah Tanner, a cattle rancher and beekeeper, Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist and avid birder, and a blacksmith named Walt. Thanks to her new friends and a small band of wild horses, Becca adjusts to life in the desert and rekindles her love of art.
Then, Becca’s husband tracks her down, forcing her to summon all her strength. But can she finally stop running away?
The book starts with a beautiful quote, insights about the gracefulness and beauty of Salt River Horses, focuses on domestic violence, and the impact of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Fast-paced, adventurous, and thoughtful story of the survival of Becca’s wounded soul. Her struggles, experiences, passions, fears, healing, and the truth of her chilly silence are wonderfully portrayed.
The past connection to the story gives a better grasp of the plot and the end of each chapter fascinates you.
Interpretation of the paintings, the Acts, spectacular beauty of nature, and the diverse habitats of birds grabs the reader's attention.
The differences of living in New Jersey and Arizona, the strange companionship between animals, describing Becca’s life to the spider cloak the bug in a shroud, the parallel stories of horses and Becca though both are wild and injured are conveyed so beautifully.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book.
Loved these quotes in the book:
The Wound would finally disappear from her skin, but not from her soul.
It’s best to face your fears. Ignoring problems doesn’t solve anything. That’s really the only way to heal.
There’s nothing that can’t be fixed.
No one can force you to do anything you don’t want to do.
The story revolves around a young woman who flees an abusive relationship and finds hope in the wilds of the Arizona desert. The once aspiring artist meets Noah Tanner, a cattle rancher and beekeeper, Oscar Billingsley, a retired psychiatrist and avid birder, and a blacksmith named Walt. Thanks to her new friends and a small band of wild horses, Becca adjusts to life in the desert and rekindles her love of art.
Then, Becca’s husband tracks her down, forcing her to summon all her strength. But can she finally stop running away?
The book starts with a beautiful quote, insights about the gracefulness and beauty of Salt River Horses, focuses on domestic violence, and the impact of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Fast-paced, adventurous, and thoughtful story of the survival of Becca’s wounded soul. Her struggles, experiences, passions, fears, healing, and the truth of her chilly silence are wonderfully portrayed.
The past connection to the story gives a better grasp of the plot and the end of each chapter fascinates you.
Interpretation of the paintings, the Acts, spectacular beauty of nature, and the diverse habitats of birds grabs the reader's attention.
The differences of living in New Jersey and Arizona, the strange companionship between animals, describing Becca’s life to the spider cloak the bug in a shroud, the parallel stories of horses and Becca though both are wild and injured are conveyed so beautifully.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book.
Loved these quotes in the book:
The Wound would finally disappear from her skin, but not from her soul.
It’s best to face your fears. Ignoring problems doesn’t solve anything. That’s really the only way to heal.
There’s nothing that can’t be fixed.
No one can force you to do anything you don’t want to do.
August 24, 2020
Wild Horses on the Salt has two main themes - domestic abuse and wild horses in Arizona. The author handled both subjects well and the result was a well written book with both the beauty of nature and the ultimate goodness of people.
Becca is a lawyer who hates her job and has always dreamed of being an artist. She is also married to an abusive man. She quit her job at her father's law firm because she got tired of making excuses for her bruises. As the novel begins, she has just arrived at a friend of her aunts in Arizona after she escaped from her home in New Jersey. She is battered and bruised but doesn't want to talk about it due to her severe case of PTSD. She gradually opens up to the other people there - Noah, a rancher, Walt, sculptor plus Gaby, the owner of Salt River Inn, a 1930's guesthouse located in the wildly beautiful Tonto National Forest. Their support and friendship as well as the beauty of the land and the wild horses help her begin to heal and start to become the artist she always wanted to be. She's making progress until her husband shows up and demands that she go back to New Jersey with him because he really loves her. Will he convince her to go home or has she become strong enough to realize that his type of jealous love will only harm her? The descriptions of the horses and the desert scenery were so beautiful. The beauty of nature the Becca found so healing was in direct opposition to the life that she'd been living.
This is a beautiful well written novel about healing from domestic abuse. It was emotional and the abuse was difficult to read about but it was well worth reading. Be sure to read the Author's Notes at the end for more information about domestic abuse and how to get help.
Becca is a lawyer who hates her job and has always dreamed of being an artist. She is also married to an abusive man. She quit her job at her father's law firm because she got tired of making excuses for her bruises. As the novel begins, she has just arrived at a friend of her aunts in Arizona after she escaped from her home in New Jersey. She is battered and bruised but doesn't want to talk about it due to her severe case of PTSD. She gradually opens up to the other people there - Noah, a rancher, Walt, sculptor plus Gaby, the owner of Salt River Inn, a 1930's guesthouse located in the wildly beautiful Tonto National Forest. Their support and friendship as well as the beauty of the land and the wild horses help her begin to heal and start to become the artist she always wanted to be. She's making progress until her husband shows up and demands that she go back to New Jersey with him because he really loves her. Will he convince her to go home or has she become strong enough to realize that his type of jealous love will only harm her? The descriptions of the horses and the desert scenery were so beautiful. The beauty of nature the Becca found so healing was in direct opposition to the life that she'd been living.
This is a beautiful well written novel about healing from domestic abuse. It was emotional and the abuse was difficult to read about but it was well worth reading. Be sure to read the Author's Notes at the end for more information about domestic abuse and how to get help.
February 4, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It tackles a very emotional and distressing social issue: domestic violence. At the same time, Montgomery does a mini David Attenborough-esque exposé of man's effect on the environment.
Becca fleas her violent controlling husband and finds refuge with a family friend in Arizona. She needs to find strength to recover, mentally, from his abuse and to admit to her hosts...and herself...the damage it's done to her. At the same time, a wild horse, native to the region, is injured. Although rescued and treated, it escapes its rehabilitation corral and sets off to rejoin his herd, picking up a companion in the very odd form of a stray sheep on the way. The paradox is clever here: injured creatures finding their way to strength, safety and security: one, a wild injured horse, the other, a dominated, mentally and physically abused and harmed human. The journeys are different, dramatic, but ultimately they both find what they are looking for.
This was really well written, and I found it really compelling and fascinating: Montgomery evokes your sympathy for both the horse (especially if you are an animal lover like I am) and Becca, rooting for them to find happiness and healing. The author also has excellent knowledge of…or has done some very meticulous research into…nature, wildlife and environmental issues.
I'm not sure what I was expecting with this book, but it turned out to be quite a gem, and actually, I've already found myself missing the (good) characters and a few lessons about birds, bees (no, not THOSE birds and bees (!)), horses, and man's devastating effect on the environment.
Becca fleas her violent controlling husband and finds refuge with a family friend in Arizona. She needs to find strength to recover, mentally, from his abuse and to admit to her hosts...and herself...the damage it's done to her. At the same time, a wild horse, native to the region, is injured. Although rescued and treated, it escapes its rehabilitation corral and sets off to rejoin his herd, picking up a companion in the very odd form of a stray sheep on the way. The paradox is clever here: injured creatures finding their way to strength, safety and security: one, a wild injured horse, the other, a dominated, mentally and physically abused and harmed human. The journeys are different, dramatic, but ultimately they both find what they are looking for.
This was really well written, and I found it really compelling and fascinating: Montgomery evokes your sympathy for both the horse (especially if you are an animal lover like I am) and Becca, rooting for them to find happiness and healing. The author also has excellent knowledge of…or has done some very meticulous research into…nature, wildlife and environmental issues.
I'm not sure what I was expecting with this book, but it turned out to be quite a gem, and actually, I've already found myself missing the (good) characters and a few lessons about birds, bees (no, not THOSE birds and bees (!)), horses, and man's devastating effect on the environment.
November 26, 2020
3.5 stars
Wild Horses On The Salt is contemporary fiction which has several themes running through it. One is domestic violence and another is the plight of wild horses, especially those in Arizona.
Becca has run away from her violent husband and her life as a lawyer in New Jersey. She has come to the home of friends who run an inn in Arizona. Life in the desert is very different from where she was brought up and it gives Becca time to recover and to think about what she really wants in life.
With the support of Gaby and Walt who run the inn, Becca is introduced to their friends and community. She befriends their neighbour Noah and a romance between the couple forms. Becca is also taught about the local wild horses and how they are being threatened by man’s greed for more space. While smaller sub-themes involve Becca learning about the flora and fauna of Arizona, both natural and invasive as well as recycling and caring for the environment.
In addition to Becca’s story, there are chapters from the point of view of some of the animals, particularly a wild horse which was injured in a road accident. There really is a lot going on in this book and for me it watered down the tension and the importance of the two main themes, while the romance between Becca and Noah came across as rather rushed, considering her husband’s presence.
I was drawn to this story by the Arizona setting and the wild horse theme, but it didn’t hold my attention as much as I had hoped.
Wild Horses On The Salt is contemporary fiction which has several themes running through it. One is domestic violence and another is the plight of wild horses, especially those in Arizona.
Becca has run away from her violent husband and her life as a lawyer in New Jersey. She has come to the home of friends who run an inn in Arizona. Life in the desert is very different from where she was brought up and it gives Becca time to recover and to think about what she really wants in life.
With the support of Gaby and Walt who run the inn, Becca is introduced to their friends and community. She befriends their neighbour Noah and a romance between the couple forms. Becca is also taught about the local wild horses and how they are being threatened by man’s greed for more space. While smaller sub-themes involve Becca learning about the flora and fauna of Arizona, both natural and invasive as well as recycling and caring for the environment.
In addition to Becca’s story, there are chapters from the point of view of some of the animals, particularly a wild horse which was injured in a road accident. There really is a lot going on in this book and for me it watered down the tension and the importance of the two main themes, while the romance between Becca and Noah came across as rather rushed, considering her husband’s presence.
I was drawn to this story by the Arizona setting and the wild horse theme, but it didn’t hold my attention as much as I had hoped.
October 26, 2020
Wild Horses on the Salt deals with two main issues: domestic abuse and the plight of wild horses in Arizona.
Becca, a lawyer who hates her job and has always dreamed of being an artist, is also married to an abusive man who belittles her and her art. She’s just been severely beaten, and her aunt takes pity on her and sends her off to a guest ranch in Arizona. Becca has PTSD and has trust issues and difficulty trusting or relying on others. At the ranch, she gradually opens up to the owners, Walt (a sculptor), Gabi, the owner of the Salt River Inn, and Noah, a neighboring rancher. As she heals, Becca resumes her lifetime dream of becoming an artist.
Having just come off reading Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey, this book slipped right into place. The nature writing was beautiful and Montgomery clearly has a grasp of the local flora and fauna.
Montgomery deals with abuse, both of animals and humans, in an almost-too delicate manner, I suspect so that she doesn’t traumatize her readers.
Her characterizations are a bit off. Becca seems the stereotypical abused woman. Gabi and Walt, a couple, are almost too good to be true as is Noah—no major flaws in any of them. The point of view is just a bit to distant for the reader to really feel for these characters. The romance between Becca and Noah occurred a bit too quickly and seemed rushed.
Becca, a lawyer who hates her job and has always dreamed of being an artist, is also married to an abusive man who belittles her and her art. She’s just been severely beaten, and her aunt takes pity on her and sends her off to a guest ranch in Arizona. Becca has PTSD and has trust issues and difficulty trusting or relying on others. At the ranch, she gradually opens up to the owners, Walt (a sculptor), Gabi, the owner of the Salt River Inn, and Noah, a neighboring rancher. As she heals, Becca resumes her lifetime dream of becoming an artist.
Having just come off reading Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey, this book slipped right into place. The nature writing was beautiful and Montgomery clearly has a grasp of the local flora and fauna.
Montgomery deals with abuse, both of animals and humans, in an almost-too delicate manner, I suspect so that she doesn’t traumatize her readers.
Her characterizations are a bit off. Becca seems the stereotypical abused woman. Gabi and Walt, a couple, are almost too good to be true as is Noah—no major flaws in any of them. The point of view is just a bit to distant for the reader to really feel for these characters. The romance between Becca and Noah occurred a bit too quickly and seemed rushed.
July 10, 2020
A book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.
I really enjoyed this book. Although it dealt with a very difficult subject, domestic violence, it was a beautiful novel. The main character, Becca, fled a violent marriage and wound up in the desert staying at an inn owned by a wonderful woman. Becca finds peace with Gaby and Walt, and friendship with Noah, a neighbor. This friendship grows into more as the book progresses.
A side story to Becca's tale is that of the animals who live in the desert, and their relationships. The wild horses, of course, but also sheep, birds and a wily skunk. One of my favorite lines in the book reads "President Teddy Roosevelt cared deeply about wild places and the creatures that live in them. But he was also an avid hunter. One can be both."
I didn't want the book to end. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I will look for more.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. Although it dealt with a very difficult subject, domestic violence, it was a beautiful novel. The main character, Becca, fled a violent marriage and wound up in the desert staying at an inn owned by a wonderful woman. Becca finds peace with Gaby and Walt, and friendship with Noah, a neighbor. This friendship grows into more as the book progresses.
A side story to Becca's tale is that of the animals who live in the desert, and their relationships. The wild horses, of course, but also sheep, birds and a wily skunk. One of my favorite lines in the book reads "President Teddy Roosevelt cared deeply about wild places and the creatures that live in them. But he was also an avid hunter. One can be both."
I didn't want the book to end. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I will look for more.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
December 2, 2020
3 1/2 stars
Reviewed for www.compassbookratings.com
Overall Review:
Take a trip to the stunning Sonoran desert in Wild Horses on the Salt. Written by Anne Montgomery, this fast-paced story emphasizes Arizona's beauty with detailed writing and solid character development. Montgomery is obviously familiar with the great state of Arizona, writing effortlessly about the animals, plants and birds of the desert landscape. Readers will get to know Rebecca, a character who has lost herself in an abusive relationship. Rebecca's journey to discover who she is and what she wants in life is compelling. The interactions with the novel's secondary characters are charming and a highlight of the story. A few plot holes involving Rebecca's aunt emerge, but Wild Horses on the Salt will definitely be appreciated by nature enthusiasts and book lovers alike. Be sure to check out the Author's Note for information on domestic abuse and wild horses.
For full content analysis, go to www.compassbookratings.com
Reviewed for www.compassbookratings.com
Overall Review:
Take a trip to the stunning Sonoran desert in Wild Horses on the Salt. Written by Anne Montgomery, this fast-paced story emphasizes Arizona's beauty with detailed writing and solid character development. Montgomery is obviously familiar with the great state of Arizona, writing effortlessly about the animals, plants and birds of the desert landscape. Readers will get to know Rebecca, a character who has lost herself in an abusive relationship. Rebecca's journey to discover who she is and what she wants in life is compelling. The interactions with the novel's secondary characters are charming and a highlight of the story. A few plot holes involving Rebecca's aunt emerge, but Wild Horses on the Salt will definitely be appreciated by nature enthusiasts and book lovers alike. Be sure to check out the Author's Note for information on domestic abuse and wild horses.
For full content analysis, go to www.compassbookratings.com
June 14, 2020
Rebecca (Becca) Quinn is an abused woman, an attorney with the soul of an artist. Before her abusive husband can finally end her life, she escapes to Arizona. She is entranced by the beauty of the desert and slowly begins to heal, but she knows that she is still not safe. Noah Tanner, rancher and former hydrologist, knows that Becca is running from something or someone and offers her friendship. When danger arrives and both Noah and Becca are threatened, will they find the strength to survive? As a long-time resident of Arizona, the story of the wild horses of the Salt is expertly interwoven into this exciting and thoughtful story of a wounded soul determined to regain her life and find genuine love. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
November 6, 2020
I loved the characters and the story that unfolds in this book. Becca needs a lot of care when she comes to this wonderful desert hideaway. I love the descriptions of the wild horses and the desert. I love how the story goes between why Becca came to this area and how the wild animals survive around so many humans taking over the area. I love how abuse is discussed in the story. I received a copy of this book from Smith Publicity for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
November 10, 2020
The book follows the story of Rebecca. She was in a very bad relationship, full of abuse. She ran away and ended up in Arizona.
She meets new people, and start to very slowly rebuild her life. All she wished for is peace. But the past will catch up with her again, it will take all she got to escape, one final time.
The story of Rebecca is intertwined with the story of a wild horse, who escapes much like her and searches for a family.
I like the setting of the story, it's very beautiful. The pace of the story is quite slow and descriptive. While is like the storyline I had trouble connecting to the story.
received from author
She meets new people, and start to very slowly rebuild her life. All she wished for is peace. But the past will catch up with her again, it will take all she got to escape, one final time.
The story of Rebecca is intertwined with the story of a wild horse, who escapes much like her and searches for a family.
I like the setting of the story, it's very beautiful. The pace of the story is quite slow and descriptive. While is like the storyline I had trouble connecting to the story.
received from author
August 20, 2020
I really loved this book! The issue of domestic violence was carefully told but I was glad to see Becca come out to the good in spite of everything
Also the plight of the wild horses was so interesting and sad at the same time. My first time reading this author and I was so happy to be in her world.
Also the plight of the wild horses was so interesting and sad at the same time. My first time reading this author and I was so happy to be in her world.
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