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The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death?
Barbara is an insecure, naïve nineteen-year-old girl who falls in love with Neil, a violent biker, on his way to prison. They exchange letters for a year as he continues to proclaim his love for her. But when he fails to appear at the airport as promised following his release, her broken heart soon changes to fury, and she boards a Greyhound bus to travel across the country to confront him.
What she discovers crushes her heart further, and returns home to forget him. She has yet to realize something incredible will happen in the years ahead, bringing Neil back into her life, and revealing a profound lesson in forgiveness.
What she discovers crushes her heart further, and returns home to forget him. She has yet to realize something incredible will happen in the years ahead, bringing Neil back into her life, and revealing a profound lesson in forgiveness.
64 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2022
3 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 3, 2023
The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death? is the second thought-provoking autobiography by Barbara Martin that I have read. Like, I See the Elephant, the Horseshoe left me reeling.
This story concerns a naive, nineteen-year-old Barbara's brief romantic meshing with a bad-news biker, Neil. After he takes advantage of her generosity, she finds the courage to seek him out and confront him. In doing so, she realizes her own capabilities and inner strength.
Years later, while living a happy life on a farm with her beloved animals, she waxes philosophically by labeling her brief encounter with Neil as one of those inexplicable occurrences that have a reason to have happened.
She also tackles existential questions like, "Is There Life After Death?"
In her simple, readable writing style, she hooked me for the second time. She's an inspiration. Well done, Barbara Martin. Very well done. Marlene Cheng--author.
This story concerns a naive, nineteen-year-old Barbara's brief romantic meshing with a bad-news biker, Neil. After he takes advantage of her generosity, she finds the courage to seek him out and confront him. In doing so, she realizes her own capabilities and inner strength.
Years later, while living a happy life on a farm with her beloved animals, she waxes philosophically by labeling her brief encounter with Neil as one of those inexplicable occurrences that have a reason to have happened.
She also tackles existential questions like, "Is There Life After Death?"
In her simple, readable writing style, she hooked me for the second time. She's an inspiration. Well done, Barbara Martin. Very well done. Marlene Cheng--author.
August 18, 2023
"The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death?" by Barbara Martin is a profound and thought-provoking book that delves into one of humanity's most enduring questions. With a delicate blend of personal experience, spiritual insight, and profound contemplation, Martin takes readers on a journey that challenges beliefs and invites introspection.
Barbara Martin's writing is both eloquent and deeply introspective, making this book a standout in the realm of spiritual exploration. The author's ability to weave her own experiences with broader questions about life, death, and the nature of existence creates a narrative that is both relatable and intellectually stimulating.
One of the standout features of the book is its ability to approach the topic of life after death from multiple perspectives. Martin's willingness to explore different beliefs and experiences with an open mind adds depth and credibility to her discussions.
The book's exploration of the concept of the horseshoe as a symbol of continuity is truly commendable. Martin's skillful analysis and interpretation of this symbol offer readers a unique lens through which to view the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Moreover, "The Horseshoe" is not just a book about life after death; it's an invitation to contemplate our place in the universe and the mysteries that lie beyond. The book's emphasis on seeking understanding and finding meaning in life's most profound questions encourages readers to engage in their own spiritual introspection.
As a reader who appreciates thought-provoking explorations of spirituality, "The Horseshoe" exceeded my expectations in every way. Barbara Martin's ability to intertwine personal anecdotes, spiritual insights, and philosophical ponderings creates a rich and layered reading experience.
In conclusion, "The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death?" by Barbara Martin is a five-star gem that deserves recognition for its introspection, depth, and its ability to engage readers in meaningful conversations about life, death, and the beyond. This book is a must-read for those who seek to explore the mysteries of existence and consider the possibilities of what lies beyond our current understanding. I wholeheartedly recommend "The Horseshoe" to those who are curious about the nature of life after death and are open to embracing the spiritual dimensions of our journey. Prepare to embark on a soul-searching adventure that will challenge your beliefs and leave you with a renewed sense of wonder about life's ultimate questions.
Barbara Martin's writing is both eloquent and deeply introspective, making this book a standout in the realm of spiritual exploration. The author's ability to weave her own experiences with broader questions about life, death, and the nature of existence creates a narrative that is both relatable and intellectually stimulating.
One of the standout features of the book is its ability to approach the topic of life after death from multiple perspectives. Martin's willingness to explore different beliefs and experiences with an open mind adds depth and credibility to her discussions.
The book's exploration of the concept of the horseshoe as a symbol of continuity is truly commendable. Martin's skillful analysis and interpretation of this symbol offer readers a unique lens through which to view the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Moreover, "The Horseshoe" is not just a book about life after death; it's an invitation to contemplate our place in the universe and the mysteries that lie beyond. The book's emphasis on seeking understanding and finding meaning in life's most profound questions encourages readers to engage in their own spiritual introspection.
As a reader who appreciates thought-provoking explorations of spirituality, "The Horseshoe" exceeded my expectations in every way. Barbara Martin's ability to intertwine personal anecdotes, spiritual insights, and philosophical ponderings creates a rich and layered reading experience.
In conclusion, "The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death?" by Barbara Martin is a five-star gem that deserves recognition for its introspection, depth, and its ability to engage readers in meaningful conversations about life, death, and the beyond. This book is a must-read for those who seek to explore the mysteries of existence and consider the possibilities of what lies beyond our current understanding. I wholeheartedly recommend "The Horseshoe" to those who are curious about the nature of life after death and are open to embracing the spiritual dimensions of our journey. Prepare to embark on a soul-searching adventure that will challenge your beliefs and leave you with a renewed sense of wonder about life's ultimate questions.
August 22, 2023
This is a very quickshort book about love. Its it very fast paced, and as you can tell by the number of pages, it is right to the point. The Horseshoe I thought was a perfect fit for the description of the book. It is about a girl and her run-in with love, a play off of the typical good girl meets bad boy type of stoey, but with a few alternations.
I liked this book for what it was, and how short it was did not dissapoint me in the slightest. I really enjoyed how the story played out and could see myself getting on a Greyhound bus (yes they are still around!) And travelling to get a clear answer for what is bothering you or for closure (eead to find out!). Fate does play in this, and I could actually see this book as a movie or a TV show, it would keep peoples attention and stay tuned for the next episode.
I give this a green light for anyone looking to relate to a heartbreak, trouble falling in love, as well as looking forward to the future. The author wrote this story in a certain way which I liked, which was to inspire hope, and that is exactly what this book did for me, and I hope it did to other readers as well.
I finished this book on a single train ride, and kept it on my mind throughout the coming days, and I recommend this boom to anyone who is feeling those, "what if's" typenof feelings or doubt about their own personal life. Nothing more motivational then reading about something you dream about, and then just flat out doing it.
Book cover is also 10/10 abd every eye catching, at least for me. I will be keeping this on my bookshelf, and will be telling other book clubs about it to get it on their TBR because this is a book I can see where everyone talks about it, and will relate it to story in their own lives. Kudos to the author and will be pooking for more works by her. Thank you!!!
I liked this book for what it was, and how short it was did not dissapoint me in the slightest. I really enjoyed how the story played out and could see myself getting on a Greyhound bus (yes they are still around!) And travelling to get a clear answer for what is bothering you or for closure (eead to find out!). Fate does play in this, and I could actually see this book as a movie or a TV show, it would keep peoples attention and stay tuned for the next episode.
I give this a green light for anyone looking to relate to a heartbreak, trouble falling in love, as well as looking forward to the future. The author wrote this story in a certain way which I liked, which was to inspire hope, and that is exactly what this book did for me, and I hope it did to other readers as well.
I finished this book on a single train ride, and kept it on my mind throughout the coming days, and I recommend this boom to anyone who is feeling those, "what if's" typenof feelings or doubt about their own personal life. Nothing more motivational then reading about something you dream about, and then just flat out doing it.
Book cover is also 10/10 abd every eye catching, at least for me. I will be keeping this on my bookshelf, and will be telling other book clubs about it to get it on their TBR because this is a book I can see where everyone talks about it, and will relate it to story in their own lives. Kudos to the author and will be pooking for more works by her. Thank you!!!
July 1, 2023
The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death? by Barbara Martin is a very thought-provoking read about a young woman’s experiences with love. The nineteen-year-old girl reminded me in so many ways of myself. The entire description of Barbara’s meeting and time spent with Neil, a biker reprobate, resonated. The encapsulated experience that took place outside the couple’s normal life couldn’t last. Time moved on even when feelings remained. Barbara was only visiting a friend for one week and would return to her hated job in another state. Neil had a different journey. He would go to prison where he would pay for the crimes he committed.
Despite the contrast between Barbara’s description of Neil’s treatment of her and her friend’s warnings about him, I felt there had to be something decent within the man. He could have taken advantage of her in very dangerous, damaging ways when they were together. We never find out for sure if he truly cared, and he takes advantage of her generosity, eventually. Despite that suspected decency, unfortunately, he continued down the wrong path and pays the ultimate price.
Barbara’s decision to confront Neil surprised me. Though I rooted for her, I feared the worst.
The story jumps many years forward and Barbara consults the computer to find out Neil’s fate. Barbara’s reflections on the past and what happens to Neil lead her to forgiveness and the examination of philosophical questions unanswered. I also believe Barbara found closure.
I rarely read memoirs, but I thought this one was well-written and made me curious about the author who has written another book.
Despite the contrast between Barbara’s description of Neil’s treatment of her and her friend’s warnings about him, I felt there had to be something decent within the man. He could have taken advantage of her in very dangerous, damaging ways when they were together. We never find out for sure if he truly cared, and he takes advantage of her generosity, eventually. Despite that suspected decency, unfortunately, he continued down the wrong path and pays the ultimate price.
Barbara’s decision to confront Neil surprised me. Though I rooted for her, I feared the worst.
The story jumps many years forward and Barbara consults the computer to find out Neil’s fate. Barbara’s reflections on the past and what happens to Neil lead her to forgiveness and the examination of philosophical questions unanswered. I also believe Barbara found closure.
I rarely read memoirs, but I thought this one was well-written and made me curious about the author who has written another book.
August 23, 2023
I was deeply moved while reading this short, yet thought-provoking, memoir, The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death? by Barbara Martin. It tells the story of 19-year-old vulnerable, gullible, and naive Barbara meeting the older charismatic, handsome, charming and, in my opinion, conniving gang member Neil. But who can blame a 19 year old for feeling instant attraction and being swept off her feet? Martin's writing is so vivid and compelling that I was swept away right along with her. I wanted a Neil of my own to hold me by the fire and write sweet letters to me and dream of a future together where we escape the world and everything about everyday life that is mundane or harsh. Since this isn't a romance novel with the requisite happily-ever-after, the story instead becomes very dark, but I won't give away any of the twists or outcomes. I cheered Barbara on as she dealt with the aftermath of this affair of sorts and was moved nearly to tears several times reading this.
The subtitle of the memoir, Is there life after death, is not something that's answered in great depth. Most of the content is taken up by the events themselves. Instead the reader is left to make their own interpretations of the story as well as see things from Barbara's perspective.
I'd recommend this for anyone looking for an interesting and emotionally moving memoir. I'm certainly keen to read other works by this author.
The subtitle of the memoir, Is there life after death, is not something that's answered in great depth. Most of the content is taken up by the events themselves. Instead the reader is left to make their own interpretations of the story as well as see things from Barbara's perspective.
I'd recommend this for anyone looking for an interesting and emotionally moving memoir. I'm certainly keen to read other works by this author.
September 27, 2023
Barbara meets Neil after a Thanksgiving gathering, and is immediately smitten with him. He seems to care a lot for her as well. But she’s an innocent 19-year-old, and Neil is a biker on his way to prison, and so the story of their relationship begins.
We see this relationship through the lens of Barbara looking back through time, which is a nice story device. I liked how this book really captured the essence of young love. That time when you’d throw yourself into a relationship with abandon, despite all the red flags. You would do this because in your heart, you knew it was destiny. Through her eyes, we see some good traits of a very flawed individual. We never know all the motivations for why Neil does all the things that he does, but we can speculate a lot of the why.
The story also delves into some deeper topics, like life after death, love that endures, and the power of forgiveness. The odd occurrence later in the book was interesting, and it provided a lot of food for thought. Signs, and what they mean, can be a very interesting debate. I felt like the ending elevated the book by taking it in the direction that it did.
I really enjoyed how this book was a nostalgic look back at a relationship, and how it circled around to find deeper meaning in the end of the book. Whether you are eager to believe in signs, or you lean on the more skeptical side, there’s no denying it makes for a great story.
We see this relationship through the lens of Barbara looking back through time, which is a nice story device. I liked how this book really captured the essence of young love. That time when you’d throw yourself into a relationship with abandon, despite all the red flags. You would do this because in your heart, you knew it was destiny. Through her eyes, we see some good traits of a very flawed individual. We never know all the motivations for why Neil does all the things that he does, but we can speculate a lot of the why.
The story also delves into some deeper topics, like life after death, love that endures, and the power of forgiveness. The odd occurrence later in the book was interesting, and it provided a lot of food for thought. Signs, and what they mean, can be a very interesting debate. I felt like the ending elevated the book by taking it in the direction that it did.
I really enjoyed how this book was a nostalgic look back at a relationship, and how it circled around to find deeper meaning in the end of the book. Whether you are eager to believe in signs, or you lean on the more skeptical side, there’s no denying it makes for a great story.
June 13, 2023
After reading The Horseshoe: Is There Life After Death? By Barbara Martin, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the overall story. This is the second book I’ve read by the author after reading her stunning memoir I See the Elephant, but this one had me slightly annoyed. The story is short and easy read. The writing itself is compelling and skilled. The story follows Barbara as she has a brief romantic entanglement with a questionable man named Neil when she was nineteen years old. There’s heartbreak and a revelation, which I won’t spoil, that sticks with her for decades. The naivete of Barbara and her romantic interactions with this man who is clearly bad news from the beginning had me shaking my head. She takes note of a man she meets on the bus who she didn’t trust and assumed most women these days would go along with this and prides herself for not falling for this random bus weirdo. It was kind of bizarre because I can’t imagine anyone falling for it, not to mention following that part of the story with casual hitchhiking. To look back on this man (Neil) who was so briefly in her life and pray for him and forgive him despite him being an unforgivable human, one that did much worse to others than her, was narrow-minded.
However, I am not here to rag on someone for the life choices they make and how they choose to see them. The elements of this story that bothered me may not bother other readers and I would still recommend it to others. I’m giving this review four stars because the story is very well written.
However, I am not here to rag on someone for the life choices they make and how they choose to see them. The elements of this story that bothered me may not bother other readers and I would still recommend it to others. I’m giving this review four stars because the story is very well written.
July 8, 2023
"The Horseshoe" by Barbara Martin is a pint-sized memoir that really packs a wallop. It's like hopping into a time machine to revisit the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with being 19 and head over heels in love.
Barbara is young and love, and the love interest, Neil, is a biker bad-boy who's got one foot in prison and the other in Barbara's heart.
Martin dishes up her story with a side of guts and grit. There's heartbreak, a cross-country Greyhound adventure, and a surprising twist at the end. But it’s not all tears and motor oil. There's resilience, nostalgia, and a life-changing lesson in forgiveness that'll leave you pondering long after you've finished reading.
"The Horseshoe" may be short, but it's sweet in its own candid, bittersweet way. You'll be rooting for Barbara every step of the way. It's like having coffee with a friend who's telling you about that lost love of her life – raw, real, and profound.
Barbara is young and love, and the love interest, Neil, is a biker bad-boy who's got one foot in prison and the other in Barbara's heart.
Martin dishes up her story with a side of guts and grit. There's heartbreak, a cross-country Greyhound adventure, and a surprising twist at the end. But it’s not all tears and motor oil. There's resilience, nostalgia, and a life-changing lesson in forgiveness that'll leave you pondering long after you've finished reading.
"The Horseshoe" may be short, but it's sweet in its own candid, bittersweet way. You'll be rooting for Barbara every step of the way. It's like having coffee with a friend who's telling you about that lost love of her life – raw, real, and profound.
July 21, 2023
An Amazing Story
This book resonated with me in a way few other stories have. It’s just that the story is real, although that’s part of the allure. As a young person trying to find their way in the world, Barbara became attracted to what she saw in a handsome young man that she knew was wrong for her.
Many people in their lives fall in love easily and quickly with someone without any real reason beyond instinct, whether it works out or not. The main story is how Barbara learned about herself and who she was and who she would become through the lens of how her first love started and ended, and for her to have that closure years later was perfect, and made sense. I’m really happy I read this book! It was wonderful!
This book resonated with me in a way few other stories have. It’s just that the story is real, although that’s part of the allure. As a young person trying to find their way in the world, Barbara became attracted to what she saw in a handsome young man that she knew was wrong for her.
Many people in their lives fall in love easily and quickly with someone without any real reason beyond instinct, whether it works out or not. The main story is how Barbara learned about herself and who she was and who she would become through the lens of how her first love started and ended, and for her to have that closure years later was perfect, and made sense. I’m really happy I read this book! It was wonderful!
October 17, 2023
Can the mind find peace. Maybe The Horseshoe gives a clue.
What I found most interesting about this book was a seeming jumping back and forth between knowing and not knowing. Between trusting intuition one moment, then becoming paranoid and defensive the next. On and on. The book made me think about consciousness and the attempt to be the same being in that consciousness. And how long does it take to get to being the same person all of the time. Barbara Martin has her own take on it. If stirring your mind into contemplating this kind of thing is of interest, might want to take a gander at The Horseshoe.
What I found most interesting about this book was a seeming jumping back and forth between knowing and not knowing. Between trusting intuition one moment, then becoming paranoid and defensive the next. On and on. The book made me think about consciousness and the attempt to be the same being in that consciousness. And how long does it take to get to being the same person all of the time. Barbara Martin has her own take on it. If stirring your mind into contemplating this kind of thing is of interest, might want to take a gander at The Horseshoe.
August 17, 2023
Great Little Memoir
This novella-length (actually more of a short story length) about a young woman meeting her first love and the tragic events that follow is a gripping and fast read. (I sat and read the whole thing in lieu of getting up and getting dinner ready!) I enjoyed the entire story, although I wasn't as impressed by the paranormal part of it. This might be because the writing seemed tighter at the beginning of the story and felt more rambling towards the end. But still worth a five star from me, and I will certainly recommend it!
This novella-length (actually more of a short story length) about a young woman meeting her first love and the tragic events that follow is a gripping and fast read. (I sat and read the whole thing in lieu of getting up and getting dinner ready!) I enjoyed the entire story, although I wasn't as impressed by the paranormal part of it. This might be because the writing seemed tighter at the beginning of the story and felt more rambling towards the end. But still worth a five star from me, and I will certainly recommend it!
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June 4, 2023A compelling story about our internal energy
I found this novella very engaging as the author's well written account whisked me onward throughout its short span. Concern for her well-being transitions to numerous thought-provoking questions as I believe that, in one sense or another, we all have had some inexplicable occurrences in our lives. This was a good read.
I found this novella very engaging as the author's well written account whisked me onward throughout its short span. Concern for her well-being transitions to numerous thought-provoking questions as I believe that, in one sense or another, we all have had some inexplicable occurrences in our lives. This was a good read.
June 7, 2023
LOVELY YET PROFOUND. This is a love story, and not just the romantic kind. Although it starts that way, it unfolds to reveal something far more profound: the love of life. It questions the fabric of our existence in a way that is both reasonable and intelligent. In doing so, it hints at the notion that all things are connected through time, matter and spirit, and in doing so, makes perfect sense.
August 15, 2023
Unexpectedly Good
Wow! I clicked on this because it was listed on paranormal. When I started reading it, I realized it was not what I expected. There's not any fantasy in this, but it's definitely engaging! I really like it, maybe to the point that I'll try out the new genre. Thanks for the nice change of pace!
Wow! I clicked on this because it was listed on paranormal. When I started reading it, I realized it was not what I expected. There's not any fantasy in this, but it's definitely engaging! I really like it, maybe to the point that I'll try out the new genre. Thanks for the nice change of pace!
June 18, 2023
Touching
An enticing story that sucks the reader in at the start. Not a word wasted in the telling, Neil and Barbara's story is one of love, heartbreak and forgiveness.
There may not be life after death, but there is love.
An enticing story that sucks the reader in at the start. Not a word wasted in the telling, Neil and Barbara's story is one of love, heartbreak and forgiveness.
There may not be life after death, but there is love.
July 24, 2023
Interesting
A nineteen year old girl falls head over heels for a handsome bad boy and fantacises 50 years later about their nearly disastrous relationship. Impossible not to feel for her and question her sanity.
A nineteen year old girl falls head over heels for a handsome bad boy and fantacises 50 years later about their nearly disastrous relationship. Impossible not to feel for her and question her sanity.
September 3, 2023
This short memoir will touch your heart in a divine thought provoking way. A quick and most fascinating read on life, love and the beyond. This gentle lovely read will invite love, faith and hope into your being. A wonderful story!
March 30, 2025
Read it in a few hours
Yes, I couldn’t put it down. I watch Barbara’s YouTube videos. Read her first book. It was so good I couldn’t put it down . Barbara is my hero. Thank you for sharing your life story with us.
Yes, I couldn’t put it down. I watch Barbara’s YouTube videos. Read her first book. It was so good I couldn’t put it down . Barbara is my hero. Thank you for sharing your life story with us.
November 22, 2025
Good story!
This book is true to Barbara's writing style. For me that means I I am unable to stop reading until I reach the end. Even after I finish reading her books the storyline follows me long after I have finished reading it. Food for thought...
This book is true to Barbara's writing style. For me that means I I am unable to stop reading until I reach the end. Even after I finish reading her books the storyline follows me long after I have finished reading it. Food for thought...
July 21, 2024
Enjoyed this novella by a fellow writer on Medium. This is the author’s second book.
November 19, 2024
delicate like a snowflake
An impressively beautiful story, like a movie script. Romantic and unique in its own way. And the author's thoughts are priceless. I loved it!
An impressively beautiful story, like a movie script. Romantic and unique in its own way. And the author's thoughts are priceless. I loved it!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews