The Canterwood Crest Series in Order

About the Canterwood Crest series

Series Premise

The core premise follows ambitious young equestrians enrolled at the prestigious Canterwood Crest Academy, an elite boarding school in Connecticut dedicated to top-tier show jumping and horsemanship. The narrative begins with a talented but inexperienced newcomer arriving on campus with her horse, determined to prove herself among the best riders in the country. She faces grueling tryouts for the advanced riding team (the Youth Equestrian National Team track), intense rivalries, team dynamics, and the high stakes of competitions where one mistake can cost everything. Over time, the focus shifts as characters grow, new protagonists emerge, and the story explores deeper layers of friendship, betrayal, romance, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in a world where talent alone isn't enough—discipline, resilience, and loyalty matter just as much.

Main Characters

The series revolves around a core group of young riders whose lives intertwine. Sasha Silver kicks off the saga as the relatable, determined protagonist: a skilled but initially underestimated girl with her chestnut Thoroughbred Charm, whose loyalty and quirks make him a fan favorite. She's earnest, hardworking, and quick to form deep friendships while navigating mean-girl tactics and romantic sparks. As the story progresses, the spotlight shifts to include Lauren Towers, a poised, talented rider from the same hometown, who brings her own strengths, insecurities, and evolving role in the group. Key supporting figures include Callie Harper, a loyal, no-nonsense best friend with strong riding ability; Heather Fox, the glamorous, sharp-tongued queen bee whose complexity adds layers to rivalries; Brit Chan, a confident newcomer who shakes up dynamics; and various teammates, instructors, and stable hands who round out the ensemble. Horses are characters too—each with personality, from Charm's playful energy to others' quirks—forming emotional anchors for the riders.

Setting

The setting is vividly realized: Canterwood Crest Academy, a sprawling, luxurious campus in the rolling hills of Connecticut, complete with state-of-the-art stables, multiple arenas (indoor and outdoor), cross-country courses, and manicured grounds that evoke both privilege and demanding rigor. The atmosphere buzzes with the sounds of hooves on dirt, instructors calling corrections, and the scent of hay and leather. Seasons play a role—crisp autumn shows, snowy winter training, blooming spring events—while off-campus glimpses of hometowns or family life provide contrast to the insulated, high-pressure boarding-school world. The focus stays firmly on the equestrian life: early-morning feeds, grooming rituals, lesson drama, and show-day nerves.

Tone & Themes

The tone is engaging, fast-paced, and emotionally resonant, striking a perfect balance between lighthearted stable antics and genuine tension. Expect plenty of witty banter, horse-related humor (think mischievous geldings and dramatic barn moments), and feel-good victories alongside realistic portrayals of setbacks, jealousy, and heartbreak. It's uplifting without being saccharine, acknowledging the stress of competition while celebrating perseverance and teamwork. Themes center on friendship's complexities—loyalty versus rivalry, forgiveness after betrayal, the value of true allies—and self-discovery through dedication. The books highlight hard work trumping natural talent, the courage to stand up to mean-girl dynamics, balancing academics and riding, handling pressure from parents or peers, and the unbreakable bond between rider and horse as a source of strength and comfort.

In the end, the Canterwood Crest series is a spirited celebration of passion, perseverance, and the magic of the horse-human connection. Jessica Burkhart crafts a world where every jump cleared and every friendship mended feels like a victory, reminding young readers that dreams worth chasing demand heart, grit, and the courage to keep going—even when the course gets tough. For anyone who has ever felt the thrill of a canter or the sting of competition, these books gallop straight to the soul: exhilarating, heartfelt, and forever tied to the joy of riding toward the horizon.