Jane Mitchell's story continues as she faces a critical qualifying event for the North American Junior Team. Despite the pressure, she selflessly aids a fallen child rider—who turns out to be the daughter of Olympic champion Erica Flame—before rushing to compete with minimal warm-up. Her impressive performance secures her a spot on the team, but she soon discovers that her new teammates include her long-time rival Melinda, the aloof heiress Alison, and the charming Shawn, who seems intent on winning her over, setting the stage for intense personal and competitive challenges ahead.

 

 ~ Teamwork? More like slavery! This was the second time Kate had sent me on the million-mile walk to the secretary’s stand, this time to retrieve a missing bridle number for one of the peewee riders from our barn. I still had to braid Windsong’s mane, polish my boots, get dressed, and—to have a chance at a decent score—warm him up properly before my class. I was here at this horse show for one reason: to get on the team for the North American Junior Team Championships. Only the top four qualifiers made it, and I wasn’t going to let someone else’s problems stop me.

When I complained to Kate, my trainer, that I wouldn’t have enough time to prepare for my class, wasn’t there someone else who could go, she lectured me on teamwork. As a trainer for many students of different levels, Kate was big on everyone helping everyone else at the shows. And just because I was the most advanced rider she taught didn’t mean I was above helping, she informed me. Then I received the Kate glare.

So, I hustled up the stony path toward the show rings, grumbling to myself about disorganized packets and ridiculously big show venues. ~ Excerpt  from Join the  Dance