Award-winning novelist Rusty Blackwood has announced that the ebook version of her latest novel, Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, will be available at no charge on September 10 and 11, 2026. The promotion is exclusive to Amazon, where the book can be downloaded via Blackwood's author page at https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rusty-Blackwood/author/B0092XLBRM.
Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster is the prequel to Blackwood's thrilling Autumn Trilogy, a series set in the equestrian world of professional racing, concealed secrets, and an unfaltering love. The prequel explores the origins of Cyril Landon, a young Englishman born into extreme poverty in the village of South Wood Chester, Gloucestershire. Despite a seemingly hopeless future, Cyril's determination and grit lead him to a labourer's position at a local farm, opening doors he never imagined. The novel illustrates that every legacy begins with a choice—before the grandeur came the master.
The book has received positive reviews from critics. Richard Prause of Readers Favorite commented, "It doesn't depend on manufactured plot twists to drive the story. Instead, it focuses on the simple, powerful moments of a man earning the trust of a stallion. It's a perceptive exploration of ambition and loyalty, indeed. If you appreciate character-driven historical fiction, this novel is well worth your time." Another reviewer, Asher Syed, stated, "Overall, this will be a boon for readers who are already fans of the series, and a brilliant introduction to fans-in-waiting."
Blackwood expressed her enthusiasm for the giveaway: "I am pleased to offer, Before the Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster, at no charge during this timeframe. Born into extreme poverty with little hope of survival, Cyril Landon's difficult beginnings throughout England's horrific war years, will better assist readers in understanding the difficult journey that precedes the grandeur awaiting them in The Perils of Autumn. For fans of Historical Fiction, this page-turner is a must read."
The Autumn Trilogy began with The Perils of Autumn, which was named a finalist in the Fiction Romance category by the International Book Awards in 2019 and a finalist in the American Book Fest's 2019 awards program. The first book also received a 5-star rating from Reader's Favorite. Set primarily in the early 1970s, it follows Autumn Leeves, a young Kentucky woman born to an unwed mother. Autumn's life takes a dramatic turn when she is assigned to care for the terminally ill wife of English equestrian master Cyril Landon, owner of Landon Lawns Stables near Lexington, Kentucky. The stable is also home to world-renowned jockey Duff Taylor, who harbors a dark secret from an unsolved racing incident. Autumn and Cyril's romance blossoms despite interference, but peril strikes again when Autumn's mother dies, leaving her pregnant and fighting to save her baby.
Reviewers have praised The Perils of Autumn as well. Ray Simmons said, "Romance and good writing come together perfectly in Rusty Blackwood's 'The Perils of Autumn'. A great read." Trudi LoPreto added, "This book has it all and more. Please do not pass up 'The Perils of Autumn' - you will not be sorry."
Blackwood's previous works include the 5-star rated romantic fiction novel Willow's Walk, set in Ottawa in 2003, which follows a woman determined to prevail despite overwhelming challenges. Her first romantic fiction novel, Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, is a sweeping saga compared to Bram Stoker's Dracula and Erich Segal's Love Story. Both books have received rave reviews.
Information on all of Blackwood's work is available at her website, http://www.rusty-blackwood.com. Readers can download paperback and Kindle versions of her books at Amazon sites worldwide. The free ebook promotion for Before The Grandeur: The Making of a Horsemaster provides an opportunity for new readers to discover the series at no cost, potentially expanding Blackwood's fanbase and boosting interest in the entire Autumn Trilogy.
