Ghost Riders
by Mark Felton
"When US and German Soldiers Fought Together to Save the World's Most Beautiful Horses in the Last Days of World War II"
Popularity
4.82 / 5
* A book's popularity is determined by how it compares to all other books on this website.
Where to buy?
Buy from Amazon* If you buy this book through the link above, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Ghost Riders by Mark Felton
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Cavalry
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Europe
Published Date:
2018
ISBN13:
9780306825590
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Ghost Riders by Mark Felton delves into a fascinating and lesser-known episode from the final days of World War II. The book explores themes of bravery, compassion, and the surprising camaraderie that emerged among diverse factions during a time of turmoil and uncertainty. Centered around "Operation Cowboy," the story highlights a unique alliance between American soldiers, former enemies, and liberated POWs as they come together to save a valuable group of horses from impending slaughter. The preservation of the Lipizzaner and Arabian horses serves as a poignant metaphor for the triumph of humanity and empathy over chaos and cruelty.
Writing Style and Tone
Felton employs a narrative style that is both engaging and informative. His adept storytelling brings to life the harrowing circumstances and tense atmosphere of the period. With meticulous attention to detail, Felton presents a well-researched account that seamlessly integrates archival material and personal recollections. The tone throughout is suspenseful yet compassionate, capturing the urgency of the mission and the nobility of its participants. This balance keeps readers invested in the unfolding events, transforming historical facts into a compelling narrative.
Brief Summary (no spoilers)
The book is set in April 1945, a time when World War II was drawing to a close, and the Soviet army was advancing swiftly into Germany. Amidst the chaos, a German colonel relays crucial information to an American intelligence officer about a POW camp harboring over a thousand precious horses, including the esteemed white Lipizzaners from Vienna's Spanish Riding School. As the Red Army threatens to reach the stables first and potentially harm the horses, an extraordinary operation is launched under General George Patton's command. American troops, alongside German soldiers and liberated POWs, embark on a daring endeavour to rescue the horses. This unprecedented alliance illustrates the powerful impact of empathy and cooperation even amidst the devastation of war.
