Saddle up for an exhilarating ride with the Golden Filly series, where horse racing dreams gallop alongside heartfelt lessons in faith and resilience! Written by Lauraine Snelling, this beloved young adult Christian fiction series follows 16-year-old Tricia Evanston, an aspiring jockey chasing the Triple Crown while navigating family challenges and personal growth. Perfect for horse lovers and fans of uplifting stories, Golden Filly delivers pulse-pounding races and soul-stirring moments across ten captivating novels.
From the dusty tracks of Portland Meadows to the prestigious Kentucky Derby, Tricia’s journey is a thrilling blend of ambition, adversity, and hope. Whether you’re a teen dreaming big or an adult craving a nostalgic escape, this series invites you to root for a determined heroine who never gives up.
How Golden Filly Began
Lauraine Snelling, an award-winning author with over 80 books to her name, always dreamed of writing horse stories for young readers. Inspired by her love for horses and her Christian faith, she launched the Golden Filly series in 1991 with The Race. Set in Vancouver, Washington, the series reflects Snelling’s knack for weaving real-life struggles with inspirational themes, creating a world where faith and determination shine. Her goal was simple: craft wholesome, exciting tales that would captivate horse-crazy teens and instill values of perseverance and trust in God.
The Heart of Golden Filly
The series kicks off with The Race, where Tricia grapples with her father’s lung cancer diagnosis and her mother’s disapproval of her jockey ambitions. As she trains Thoroughbreds like Spitfire, Tricia learns to lean on her faith to balance school, family, and racing. Eagle’s Wings sees her secretly working to support her family, facing new pressures while chasing wins. In Go for the Glory, a broken arm tests her resolve, but Tricia’s dreams of the Santa Anita Derby burn brighter than ever. Kentucky Dreamer brings her closer to the Kentucky Derby, only for an accident to threaten her plans.
Golden Filly’s strength lies in its blend of heart-pounding horse racing action and deep themes of faith, family, and resilience. Tricia’s journey in a male-dominated sport highlights courage and determination, while her Christian values guide her through grief and setbacks. The vivid Northwest setting and Snelling’s warm, accessible prose make each book feel like a cozy yet thrilling adventure. Though some note inaccuracies in equine details, the series’ emotional depth and relatable characters keep readers hooked.
Why Golden Filly Resonates
Golden Filly has left hoofprints on the hearts of young readers, especially Christian teens and horse enthusiasts. Its empowering portrayal of a female jockey breaking barriers inspired many, with fans crediting the series for sparking their love of horse racing or even careers in the industry. The focus on faith and family offers a refreshing, wholesome alternative to typical young adult fiction, making it a cherished read for those seeking stories with meaning. Even decades later, readers revisit Tricia’s adventures for comfort and inspiration, proving the series’ timeless appeal.
- Publication Years: 1991–1995
- Number of Books: 10
- Target Audience: Ages 12 and up
- Genres: Christian Fiction, Young Adult, Horses
Ready to gallop into Tricia’s world? Grab The Race and discover why Golden Filly remains a heartwarming gem for horse lovers and dream-chasers alike!