While on his way home, on the last day of the school year,
Thomas Rose happens upon a girl hiding in a ditch. She first
introduces herself as Ling (and then later tells him her name is
Hélène). She's spying on Master Stubbs, a mysterious man
who many in the village know little or nothing about. She's been
informed that Stubbs has purchased "her" horse, Belladonna
–-- and Ling wants Belladonna back. The trouble is,
Belladonna is not really her horse, and even though Stubbs bought
the horse at the market, he didn't keep it for himself. Thus begins
an adventure and a love story for two young people.

Belladonna is a show horse, a circus performer. She's pure white
in color, except for her tail, which is "the color of barley."
Hélène formed a bond with her when they performed in the
circus together. Belladonna belonged to the circus troupe leader,
Augustin, but Hélène considers the horse to be hers and
will do everything she can to find her and get her back. Thomas
helps reunite the girl with her horse. In the process, the two of
them fall in love. But due to circumstances beyond their control,
their future is uncertain.

Mary Finn has written a beautiful tale of an English boy who
falls in love with a French girl. The story takes place in England
in 1757, when England and France are at war with each other. Thomas
is the son of a wheelwright; as such, we learn a bit about the
trade. He also has a learning disability --– he can't read,
though can overcome it through creative means. Finn throws in
French words and phrases, as well as some words from the Romani
language, which gypsies used during that period. Also, several of
the characters in the book are real historical figures --- George
Stubbs, Mary Spencer, John Nelthorpe, John Harrison and James
Harrison.

Once I adjusted to the Olde English writing style, I was able to
appreciate the lyrical aspect of the language. It is indeed
beautifully written. In addition to being such a great read,
BELLADONNA is educational, for all the reasons mentioned. Do
yourself a favor and read this book.

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