The Language of Hoofbeats, a contemporary novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde, takes place in the fictitious small town of Easley in central California.

Paula, a large animal vet, and her wife, Jackie arrive at their rental house with their adopted son Quinn, eight, and two foster kids, Armando, thirteen, and Star, fifteen, a difficult, troubled girl. Paula is taking over the practice of a retiring veterinarian.

Almost immediately after they move into their new home, Star spots a horse in a small paddock across the street. Uninvited, she wanders over to the neighbor’s to visit the horse. The owner, Clementine, goes into a rage with this “intruder.” Clementine, known for her hostile attitude, lets her disapproval of the neighbors’ lifestyle be known. She has always been a difficult woman, but is more so after her daughter’s death. The horse had been her daughter’s and since her death, the horse has been confined in this small space, is fed but not exercised nor given routine care. Even though she doesn’t do justice to the spirited horse, Clementine resents Star bonding with it.

When Star disappears with the horse, everyone is alarmed. Paula and Jackie, concerned about their foster daughter’s safety, are also concerned about the legal consequences of Star’s actions. Clementine, outraged, calls the sheriff, and the search is on. In their joint concern, the neighbors are thrust together, a situation difficult for all.

The Language of Hoofbeats explores intricate relationships of family and how they relate to others. Everyone has a story, and the blend of these stories is how relationships are formed. But not all relationships are ideal, and overcoming differences can be difficult.

I loved this novel. I’m always impressed with Catherine Ryan Hyde’s knowledge of the subjects she writes about, and how she can show emotions such as joy, bitterness, fear, love, and hatred, so believably. The Language of Hoofbeats is yet another excellent novel. It’s hard to say, but maybe my favorite one.