The Horse-Shaped Hole: Navigating Equestrian Grief

The Horse-Shaped Hole: Navigating Equestrian Grief

The moment you lost your horse—whether to death, injury, or goodbye—was the moment your world split in two: the life you had… and the one you never asked for. No ribbon, no show, no training session prepared you for this. Not for the silence in the barn. Not for the ache in your body where a saddle once fit. Not for the dreams—Grand Prix goals, trail rides, breeding plans—that evaporated without warning. And worst of all? No one understands how deep this cuts—unless they’ve loved a horse the way you have. That’s where this book comes in. Written by Esther Adams, holds a doctorate of psychology and a trauma-informed therapist, national champion rider, and founder of Strides to Solutions, The Horse-Shaped Hole is the first evidence-based guide that speaks directly to equestrian grief—grief that’s misunderstood, minimized, and often suffered in silence. Inside, you’ll find powerful chapters to help you: – Understand why equestrian grief is so uniquely painful—biologically, emotionally, and psychologically – Navigate the sudden collapse of identity, purpose, and daily rhythm – Process injury, sale, retirement, or euthanasia with self-compassion – Rebuild emotional stability, even when your body still expects to ride – Carry your horse’s memory with grace—not guilt This is more than a book. It’s a place to feel seen. Written with the competitive equestrian in mind, Whether your horse died suddenly or slipped away slowly… whether you're grieving a career-ending injury or a partner you had to let go… if your heart broke in a way no one around you can understand—this is where the healing starts. Because it was never “just a horse.” It was your other half. Clarendon 3 Publishing Cover art designed by Covers by Jo