Shadow's Pride

About the Book

Shadow’s Pride chronicles the life of a true hero, branded by society as an outcast, owing to a series of health difficulties. An equine with immense heart, determination and courage, Areion envisioned a more fulfilling existence, filled with love, symbiosis with a rider and, ultimately, the manifestation of his potential to become a beginner dressage horse.

Initially fated for slaughter after a history of abuse and maltreatment, the appendix sensed that he had to give the performance of his lifetime before a barn owner who purchased him at auction. Standing tall, resolute and with great dignity, Areion captured the heart of Roland Stanzione, who looked beyond Areion’s surface physical limitations and conventional definitions of “worth” to find the heart of his best friend. Together, the two forged an inextricable bond, while combating life’s alterations and problems, wrong diagnoses, and blatant neglect in an industry which prizes monetary value above all else.

After being diagnosed with navicular degeneration, Areion underwent two surgeries and strove to reach the zenith of his capacity; but. just as the friends were about to train for a beginner’s dressage competition, Destiny’s capricious hand cruelly intervened and redirected their course.

The narrative, uniquely rendered in the voices of the two protagonists, Roland and Areion, in turn, provides inspirational impetus for anyone suffering the pain of discrimination, deprivation, or physical challenge. In such a way, despite the unspeakable tragedy of the friends’ eventual temporal parting, the story resonates with the hope of each new day.

About the Author

Roland Stanzione is an avid sportsman and equestrian. He holds a degree in Management Science, is a staunch advocate for animal rights, and assists homeless and injured animals. Gabriella Gafni holds a J.D. and a B.A. in foreign languages and cultures. She presently works as a writing collaborator and has authored numerous texts.