The cover of author Anne Montgomery’s book “Wild Horses on the Salt” may create some confusion. The title may lead a potential reader to an assumption. They could assume it is about horses. However, horses are part of the story, but not the main focus. The truth is that horses are part of the story, but by far not the primary focus.

The book’s main character is Rebecca, a woman trying to escape an abusive relationship. She finds herself moving to Arizona. She sought refuge with her aunt’s old friend, Gaby Strand. The Sonoran Desert becomes the backdrop to the story as Rebecca (Becca) works to escape the abuse she has endured.

Becca is not the only one with their life at risk in this story. There is a wild horse finds itself alone and injured after being hit by a car. The horse lost its small family after the accident. The horse received help from some humans; otherwise, it would have probably died.

As the book progresses, the stories of both characters appear to unfold in parallel. Both Horse and Becca are looking to find a place to call their own. They both will make a friend or friends. They both have to make tough decisions that could lead them to danger. I found this bit of storytelling to be really well done by Montgomery.

Another interesting plot point about the story is how attention is drawn to two different concerns. One such concern that is not talked about in wide circles, spousal abuse. The book taught me about the plight of the wild horses (mustangs) in the western states. I did not realize that their protected status created so many issues for the locals in those areas.

What Montgomery does within this story is create some very well-developed characters. They are not perfect, and some decisions may drive you insane. These character traits are found in both humans and animals. You will find yourself rooting for both Becca and the horse.

Anne Montgomery’s book, “Wild Horses on the Salt”, has been out for several years now. I recently came across the book and felt it deserved a current review.

The story is well written, and fans of Montgomery’s will not be disappointed. Those who uncover her storytelling will find a very compelling story with very realistic characters. Yes, some decisions may make you cringe, but the characters are more real. I am avoiding spoilers for an older book. Readers will get introduced to Becca’s husband at some point. The character work on this man is just as well done as any other in the pages of the book.

Hopefully, readers will give this book a read, and if not for the first time, then again.