Favored to Win: Anniversary Edition

What an enjoyable book! After finishing the book, I found myself missing the characters. I so enjoyed the mystery of the main character Dawn and the reactions of Randy, the veterinarian, to her hidden and guarded past. The fatherly figure and master horseman Ben made you believe he could pick and train a winning horse every time, but knew he could not control the destiny of himself or his horses. I found myself identifying with the crude but clowning Tom, including the emotional person that was hidden within. MaryAnn Meyers is such a skilled writer, that she included personality traits in the horses. The confident Beau, the wild and winning All Together (don't think I just gave away the plot)and the cranky Shadow Pines. Although I find myself wishing for a sequel, I'll settle for picking up another MaryAnn Meyers book, starting a fire in the fireplace and settling down for another good read.

I read MaryAnn Myers first two books: "Call Me Lydia" and "Mapledale" which I thoroughly enjoyed, so I waited with anticipation for the next. "Favored to Win" is wonderful. It holds your attention from the first page to the final line. The author has a real feel for horses and the world of horse racing. Her characters are real---you feel like you know them personally. The story has love, humor and intrigue. I highly recommend it and can't wait to read her next book.

Bravo! Another book that you just can't put down. Situations that will make you laugh, touching moments that bring a tear to your eye and an education on the behind the scenes of thoroughbred horse racing tossed in. An intriguing tale of a young woman that finds a new way in life quite different than that of her upbringing or mysterious past. The cast of characters leading you through the world of racing are all quite believable. In fact, I began to imagine what actors would play what roles if this was a movie - I think Wilford Brimley would make a great "Ben" - the gentle trainer and guiding mentor throughout the story. This is the third book by this author that I've read and I've enjoyed each one. I look forward to the next one with great anticipation - I finally found an author that writes the kind of books I like to read.

I was very anxious to read FAVORED TO WIN after meeting MaryAnn Myers at a book signing in Parkersburg, WV. Not being familiar with horses, I might have been reluctant to purchase the book had I not met Ms. Myers. She is as personable as the characters she creates in this book. Not only did I learn about horses and what goes on behind the scenes, but the book was about believable characters with very exciting, interesting storylines. If you are a horse lover or just love a "great read", you'll love this book! Am adding MaryAnn Myers to my list of favorite authors. :)

I had the pleasure to meet Ms. Meyers at a book signing in New Philadelphia, Ohio last year. She is an amazing woman to talk to you. Having read 2 of her books - I am now pleased to add her to my favorite authors. Favored to Win took me into the "backside" of racing - into a world I didn't know existed. Brilliantly thought out characters that came to life from the first page. You can see the race, feel the rain, and smell the horses. A total sensory overload.