Review: JOSEPHINE - I Had Two Ponies

I Had Two Ponies is this week's book. It was first published in 1947, making this the second book that she had published. It is also the first book she wrote which is not part of a series. In 2020 it was made available both as an ebook and paperback versions by Jane Badger Books. 

The blurb reads:-

The author of Six Ponies has written a new story about country children. It is told by Christabel who disliked her ponies that she did not mind at all when they were sold. She is sent to spend the Easter holiday with a wild family on a farm, and, at first despised by them for being snobbish, gradually becomes a much nicer person. Secretly she teaches herself to ride, and when she has won the confidence of the Westlake family, is helped by them to rescue back her two ponies from their cruel owners.

The author is part owner of a riding school, and as well as telling an amusing story, is able to give much good advice about riding and looking after ponies.

Like it said Christobel appears in the beginning to have it all. She goes to a private school and is to lazy to look after her ponies (not that she cares much for them) so are sold by her businessman of a father. She goes to stay with the Westlakes, as her parents are off to India, who are mostly horsey and rough by her standards. This causes friction especially when it is found that no great care was taken to find good homes for Christobel's ponies by the Westlakes. 

She turns out to be a most disagreeable person,  constantly arguing with the Westlakes. At one point she buys a riding book and in the stills of the night she secretly rides their ponies. She does mostly well considering she is rusty. But it's while she is in town that she comes across her former pony. The new owner is a disagreeable wood merchant. She is told that she can buy him for forty pounds but she doesnt have the money straight away as she has to write to her daddy, which due to the fact he is in India,  will take 3 weeks. But her former pony is sent to the sales before she can buy him. His fate is complete.

At one point the book shows it's age; there is a visit to a circus where there are references to animals (in the United Kingdom animal circuses are rare, if not banned) and quarantine due to measles (again rare in the United Kingdom due to strong vaccination uptake). 

But without giving too much away, it's a quest of their endeavours of trying to find the ponies and that takes up most of the book. In the end I like to think that Christobel's character has improved. The ending i feel was a bit abrupt and whether she buys both ponies is never truly resolved.  

It is interesting that Christobel writes: in the end she says that her story has been accepted in The Rider's Review. Prior to writing this Josephine (and her sisters) had 2 articles accepted in Riding Magazine (see my review of It Began with Picotee: the new edition) so the chances are it was based on the author herself.  

All in all a good moralistic tale but told wonderfully. 

 

Review: JOSEPHINE - A Job With Horses

A Job With Horses is Josephine's final book that she wrote. It was first published in 1994 and was republished in 2022 by Jane Badger. It is currently available as an ebook and paperback.  

The blurb reads:-

After her mother remarries, Kate feels uncomfortable in her stepfather's house, and then her baby brother arrives, working away from home seems more and more attractive. Having passed her BHSAI exam, a quiet summer with a family in a West Country stately home, improving the children's riding and assisting the Castle's jousting team, seems the perfect solution. But Kate does not bargain for mystery prowlers and a kidnapping....

As it is a J A Allen edition, the blurb is short as the back also contains information about Josephine. It is also available from Jane Badger Books, of which the edition has had a slightly different cover, but other than that it has not been edited. The Jane Badger Books edition came out in 2024 and is available in both ebook and paperback format. 

It starts with Kate, having previously lived a life with her mum, having her life turned upside down as her mum starts a new relationship. It is to be noted that A Job with Horses is written for a slightly more mature and modern audience than most of her books. Her mum was previously single; something up until the 1970s was frowned upon on in British society. Until the publication of the Woodbury Pony Club series in the 1980s I cannot recall a single mother in any of Josephine's books. A sign of changing times.

Having arrived at the castle she meets Lisa; the person she shares the cottage with where she is staying. She warns her to keep her window shut due to prowlers. Kate then meets the riders/children she's supposed to teach and they are unconventional riders. She's told about the Knights including Mr Melville. He is supposed to be after the family's treasure buried in the English Civil War, a topic first visited in the previously published book Black Swift (by Josephine). I have previously reviewed Black Swift. 

As per typical Josephine style there is the usual tips about schooling and the complexities of jousting. Jousting has never been something that has been tackled before or since in any pony book, let alone one with the PTs.  In fact schooling appears fairly heavily in this book. 

There is a touch of romance and the prowlers prove to be real. There is more to this story which I wont divulge as not to spoil it. There is a touch of mystery as there is a robbery in the castle.  But it works out satisfactorily and believable. 

Overall a good and fairly modern effort. If you like mystery combined with an historical place I urge you to give it a go. 

Review: JOSEPHINE - Murder Strikes Pink

Murder Strikes Pink is the third and final book in the (Chief) Inspector Flecker mystery series. Unlike Gin and Murder and They Died In The Spring, the horse element is the most strongest out of the 3. It was first published in 1963, though the image shown is an 1990 reprint. It was republished in 2016 by Greyladies and was available as an ebook in 2017 by Endeavour Press. Sadly that ebook is unavailable but the entire series was made available in a boxset entitled Home Counties Mysteries in 2025 by Lume Press. 

The blurb reads:-

Rich and embittered Theodora Thistleton, constantly brow-beat her secretaries. Where she found fault she not only judged, but tried to punish. Perhaps she deserved to die? At least one other person thought so strongly enough to kill her, and it was the task of Detective Chief-Inspector Flecker to find the murderer. Miss Thistleton had inspired hate in all who came into contact with her, and the more Flecker's investigations progressed, the more he was inclined to sympathise with the murderer.

The first chapter sets the scene by taking place at a horse show. Theodora Thistleton or T.T. has a string of people riding her horses. She is taken ill at the horse show and subsequently dies. 

The next chapter starts with a Detective-Superintendent called Jackson who starts the case. The cause of death is revealed. A Marion Keswick is investigated; she was T.T.'s driver to the show. It is also revealed that she has recently spilt up with her husband, an Lawrence Keswick who coincidentally is a beneficiary of T.T's will as they were cousins.  Lawrence Keswick is interviewed, too. Then a  piece of evidence is found in the horsebox used in the show; it is found to belong to a Marion Keswick. It seems to be all sewn up that the killer is indeed Marion Keswick. 

The next chapter introduces Chief Inspector Flecker's involvement in the case. He sets about interviewing the suspects. This takes up a fair amount of the book, during which another potential murder weapon is revealed.  Eventually the killer is revealed, without giving too much away, it is not Marion Keswick.  There is more to the story however.

To me it was less controversial in some waya than the previous offering. It touches on subjects such as adoption and single motherhood, which were frowned upon at the time of writing. Generally everything is sewn up albeit the ending is a bit abrupt.  Not a bad effort overall. 

Review: JOSEPHINE - They Died In The Spring

They Died In The Spring is Josephine's second book that is intended for adults. It is also the second in the Chief Inspector Flecker series. It was first published in 1960. The picture to the right is of the first edition. It was made available as an ebook by Endeavour Press in 2017. That has been out of availability now. However the entire series is available as a entire ebook boxset  entitled Home County Mysteries by Lume Press in 2025. 

The blurb reads:-

Though he knew Colonel Barclay had antagonised the inhabitants of Winmore End by his threat to plough the village cricket field, Paul Barclay insisted afterwards that no thought of murder had occurred to him when he found his father's body sprawled on the track though the woods, with a shotgun beside it.

It was Dr. Hedley, the pathologist at Crossley Hospital, who gave the alarm, but by the time the body was in the mortuary and the larch plantation, much trampled by the search party, was devoid of clues. Then Hilda Schmidt, the Sinclairs' foreign home help, failed to return from a jaunt to London, and the Bretfordshire police, making no headway, asked for help from Scotland Yard.

Detective Chief Inspector James Flecker soon learned that the bombastic Colonel had fallen foul of a good many people, including his own family, and that Hilda Schimdt was not beloved by all. As Flecker's inquiry gathered speed, several solutions presented themselves and the most likely was one which, for reasons of his own, he contemplated with aversion...

Although it does come in the same series as Gin and Murder, it does not feature the same characters (bar Chief Inspector Flecker) as it, so if this is the only one that you can get hold of, it doesnt matter. Although I think that in general murder mystery books, bar the police, do not feature the same people (though I am no expert). It is also not set in the same villages or areas as Gin and Murder either.

Unlike Gin and Murder, there is no horsey element to it (bar a bit when a suspect says what she did with her horse that day - she went to a hunter trial). If you are reading this because you like murder mystery novels and came across Josephine's Pullein-Thompson's work, don't worry. However, if you only want to read this because of the horsey element, then it may not be for you. If like me, you want to read every single one of the Pullein-Thompson's books, bar their non-fictional work/anthologies, then go ahead. It is written to the same high standard as Gin and Murder.

(Oh and the slightly horsey element does return in the final book of the series: Murder Strikes Pink.)

To me, the plot is still decent enough, but this book was not as enjoyable as the previous ones. To me, the plot wasnt so strong and bar the horsey element, not enough to keep you hooked. Whereas Gin and Murder was quite a clever and intriguing plot, this one wasnt. Also, the pace of the book is faster than Gin and Murder, and therefore a little confusing at times. Again, like Gin and Murder, the majority of the book is taken up with the investigation.

Also, like Gin and Murder, there is a little swearing, though again pretty much minimal. Two things that I dont like about this book is that one character said that all people with mental health problems should be locked away (and the key thrown away). Also, someone in the book was referred to as having a "schizoid personality". Just because you have a mental health problem does not make you a murderer and it is this kind of talk that promotes stigmatism these days. Though, upon reflection, Josephine was writing a book set in the late 1950s/1960s, and at that time, people with mental health problems were generally locked away, forgotten about in hospitals. Neither was the treatment around that there is today. In fact statistics show that people with mental health problems are more likely to be a victim of crime rather than the perpetrator.

Review: JOSEPHINE - Pony Club Camp

Pony Club Camp is the fifth and final book in the Noel and Henry series (also known as the West Barsetshire Pony Club). Despite it's title, it is not related to the books Pony Club Cup, Pony Club Challenge and Pony Club Trek. It was first published in 1957. It was republished in 2021 as an ebook and in 2022 as an paperback by Jane Badger Books. It was illustrated by Sheila Rose although the illustrations do not appear in the ebook. 

The blurb reads:-

For the Pony Club member it is the high spot of the summer. Out come the tents and sleeping bags and torches. Into boxes go grooming kits, headcollars, mugs and plates, haynets, pyjamas, and buckets. Children and ponies arrives in one glorious great confusion as camp begins at last.

The first night is full of surprised! A week of mounted games, jumping, schooling, picnic rides and midnight feasts is crowned by the Pony Club Gymkhana - and some very surprising results.

The blurb reads:-

This is the latest if Josephine Pullein-Thompson's well known pony stories. Many of the characters who appear in her earlier books such as One Day Event and Pony Club Team appear again here. The story revolves round a fortnight camp which is run by Major Holbrooke and in which a variety of all ages and sizes come to learn more about their difficult and enthralling hobby.

Although the first blurb refers to the later paperback edition I am using the full text in order to conduct my review: so as a consequence there may be references to things that are missing from paperback editions (bar Jane Badger's edition who uses the original text). I no longer own a edited edition to check. 

The beginning of the book sets the scene. Noel and Henry who have left school (there is talk of Henry and the army) are promoted to camp instructors by the Major. There is a mad dash by the rest of the members to find the money for the camp; naturally they are all excited. A Mrs Quayle (interestingly enough there is a Alison Quayle in the Woodbury Pony Club series. Though it has to be pointed out they are 2 completely different  characters. A fact of note is that both Quayle's appear in the last book in the series) is introduced as head of the Pony Club Camp. 

The second chapter is taken up by the setting up of the camp. Henry organises them by way of a whistle which proves effective. There is some new junior members appear such as Merry, the Barkhams and Judith Quayle. 

The next chapter is taken by practical tasks of the camp. Personally speaking i found it ok, nothing offensive. It certainly sets the scene. 

Chapter 4 is mainly taken up by the riding part. As per typical fashion as seen in the previous books, both rides (Noel is in charge of one and Henry the other) are completely useless.  They do some schooling and mounted games. 

The fifth chapter is taken up with practical horse care with some schooling from Noel. As per typical Josephine style there is some schooling technique but it's so brilliantly woven in you dont notice you're being taught.  There's also a scavenger hunt taking place with interesting results.  

Chapter 6 is taken up with a Sound Hunt. It's full of adventure. Interestingly Gay Milwood says it would be super if Noel and Henry married,  the first hint of romance in the book. 

The next chapter is taken up with the preparation for the forthcoming inspection by 3 friends of the Major (something announced towards the last of the previous chapter). It is remarked by Gay how Noel and Henry would make a good couple; there are plans by her to get them together.  There is jumping of which there is mixed results.  There is also practice for an activity ride.  The inspection commences and there is also Pony Club C and B tests taking place.  That is done with mainly excellent results.

The eighth chapter is taken up by practising for the ride that is going to take place that afternoon. It is referred to as Parents Afternoon and Gymkhana.  The Mounted Games takes place during the chapter, with rosettes won. There is also a jumping competition and a relay race. All of which are witnessed by parents. 

The ninth chapter is taken up by a ride on the Downs. Noel and Henry reminisce over events that took place in previous books. Gay talks about marriage, particularly by young people. This is rebutted by the Major. There is a party in this chapter too, which is enjoyed by all members. 

The 10th and final chapter is about the end of the camp. All members want to do it again as they are sad to leave. There are prizes given and that is the end of the book. 

It is generally a good book and gives a hint of an experience of Pony Camp. There is alluded to whether a kiss appeared in this book between Noel and Henry. Personally speaking I like to think it happened even if it was just a peck on the cheek. It's because of the romance that Josephine did not write any more books in this series as it was generally frowned upon at the time it was published. Still worth reading as it's not too explicit if you dont enjoy romance.  

Review: JOSEPHINE - One Day Event

One Day Event is this week's book. It is the fourth book in the ever popular Noel and Henry series (also known as the West Barsetshire Pony Club). It was first published in 1954. It has been republished several times, including in 2019 by Jane Badger Books. It is currently available as an ebook and paperback. 

The blurb reads (taken from the first image):-

WE HAVE already met Henry Thornton and his friends in Pony Club Team and The Radney Riding club. In One Day Event Josephine Pullein-Thompson describes what happens when Henry's uncle, who runs the local Pony Club, is hurt in a train accident. Henry and his friends, who riding has hitherto been more slapdash than the Major considers right, all fall to help look after his large stable. Henry organises the proceedings, helped by Noel Kettering, and in the course of exercising the Major's horses they all find themselves training fast. When the Major returns he is surprised to find how greatly their riding has improved and organises a cross-country course, the aim of which is to produce a well-schooled hunter or one day event horse. The Pony Club finds it difficult to keep up the exacting standard Major Holbrooke demands, but in the end the value of hard and constant training is proved. A great many hints of practical use will be found in this new story by Josephine Pullein-Thompson.

The action starts several months after the events of The Radney Riding Club. Henry, having done dreadfully at a dressage test, decides, along with Noel, to set up an enterprise schooling horses. This does not come to fruition as it says from the blurb that the Major and his wife are hurt in an accident. So both Henry and Noel return to the Major's residence to help exercise the horses. Susan and the Radcliffes from the previous book reappears in this book too. 

Most of the book is taken up with the children taking charge of the stables and running them. It has to be noted that there is a bit of hitting of horses on a ride: something that was acceptable when the book was first published. I am not sure if that has been taken out of later editions  as all consequent edition were edited (bar Jane Badger's). I am using the first edition and do not have a later edition to check.  Barring that, it's enjoyable to read. There is a far bit of lungeing and some schooling. 

In chapter 5 the Major seems to be in good spirits and suggests that Henry and the rest of the Pony Club do an One Day Event. This is met with mixed response; with some people reluctant and Noel convinced that she is hopeless.  But they are mostly happy with it as chapters 6, 7 and 8 are mostly taken up by schooling. It is not until chapter 9 that they actually tackle the cross country course and even then that's mainly schooling.

Chapter 10 is taken up with practising of the One Day Event.  This mainly focuses on the jumping side of things rather than the dressage. But it's a relatively short chapter.  

Chapter 11 is about the actual competition itself. The dressage isn't described in great detail but overall mixed. It must be noted that only the Pony Club members are involved in this competition; in previous books outside members are introduced/involved.  Then the showjumping commences. This is described in more detail with mixed results; none of the Pony Club members achieve a clear round. Finally the main event is upon us: the cross country. It is initially met with sheer horror as all the jumps seem formidable (at least from the members point of view). It mainly focuses on Noel's round and also John's. But the members have mostly good rounds and it is judged to be noted as bad as initially seemed. The results are announced though it has to be said that an archaic form of scoring is used unlike today. The ending is a bit abrupt: taking place after the results.

If you dont mind the lot of schooling (it is the most heavily weighed towards that of the series so far) then you might enjoy this book. It is an good read especially if you enjoy competition and children running a yard. Personally speaking it is my least favourite out of the series but it's still a well written book. 

Review: ALL THREE - It Began with Picotee: the new edition

This week's book is the new edition of It Began with Picotee. I say new, as not only does it contain their first full novel, It Began With Picotee,  it also contains bonus content.

It is published by Jane Badger Books and is currently available as an ebook and paperback edition.  I shall not review It Began with Picotee again, as apart from an unacceptable term (see previous review) being removed, it has not been edited. It contains the original illustrations by Rosemary Robertson. For the purposes of my review, I shall focus on the bonus content. 

The blurb reads:- 

The Pullein-Thompson sisters are the amongst the best known of the classic pony story authors. Most of their books have been printed and reprinted, but the stories they wrote when they started off are much harder to find. The sisters wrote their first works together, and they are gathered here in this volume. 

It Began with Picotee was their first full-length novel, written by all three during WWII. It has been out of print for nearly 80 years. 

Their earliest works, Cocktail Capitulates and The Road to Ruin, two short pieces that appeared in Riding Magazine, have been out of print for even longer.

This new edition brings these stories together for the first time, showing the sparky observation and solid equine knowledge that flowed through the Pullein-Thompsons' novels for decades to come. 

Hunting was legal when these stories were written, and they reflect that. 

The first bit of bonus content is Cocktail Capitulates: a bit that I touched briefly on in my previous review of It Began with Picotee.  Basically it is a story of how they school a pony. There is more to that, and is their first published work, and it is certainly interesting. 

The second bit of bonus content is The Road to Ruin. It is a story of a pony turned bad, and you can see where the early days of their writing talent shone. It reads like a fictional story rather than Cocktail Capitulates where it is obviously non fiction. To me, personally speaking, I preferred this one. But both Cocktail Capitulates and The Road to Ruin are equally good in terms of quality. 

The next bit is an history of their early works. Most of it has been taken from Jane Badger's Heroines on Horseback (previously reviewed). It is only really interesting if you haven't read Heroines on Horseback or have forgotten it. Either way it's an fascinating insight into the background of their early works. 

There is an historical articles: one about how life has changed, at least monetary wise since it was first written (if like me you were born after decimalisation in the 1970s it's an alien world of shillings) and the two real life showjumpers that are mentioned. It certainly explains a lot to a modern audience. The second is how showjumping used to be scored in the past which adds interest and the third and final one is about publishing history. Jane makes it clear that an unfortunate word has been removed.

So I recommend this edition if you haven't read It Began with Picotee before and if you have then for the sheer bonus content if you dont own them already. It's clear that the PTs knew their stuff from the off. This edition provides an interesting and informative insight into the early years.