The Secret Horses of Briar Hill

While their fathers and brothers are off fighting in World War II, the children at Briar Hill hospital are fighting their own battles with tuberculosis.

Specifically, in Emmaline’s world there are winged horses that live inside the mirrors of Briar Hill hospital. But only Emmaline can see the creatures. It is her secret. One morning, Emmaline climbs over the wall of the hospital’s abandoned gardens and discovers something incredible: a white horse with a broken wing has left the mirror and entered Emmaline’s world!

The horse, named Foxfire, is hiding from a dark and sinister force — a Black Horse who hunts by colorless moonlight. If Emmaline is to keep him from finding her new friend, she must surround Foxfire with brilliant shades of color. But where can Emmaline find color in a world of gray? The imaginative novel, filled with endearing characters, is targeted toward middle schoolers, ages 10–12. Best-selling author Megan Shepherd lives in Brevard.

Softcover, 229 pages, $7.99; hardcover, $16.99; e-book $7.99; available from online booksellers.