"The Seven" by Alison Gieschen

THE SEVEN Seven souls. One final chance for humanity. In a divine test that will determine mankind's fate, seven individuals from across the globe are chosen to represent humanity. Their judges? Not God, not angels, but the creatures who have served mankind since the dawn of civilization - horses. These majestic beings have carried humans through history, and now they must decide if humanity deserves to continue its journey. This profound tale explores the deep connection between humans and animals, the choices that define us, and the ultimate question: Has humanity strayed too far from its purpose to be saved? "The Seven" is a powerful story of redemption, second chances, and the extraordinary bond between humans and the creatures who know our hearts better than we know ourselves.   ABOUT THE AUTHOR Alison Gieschen is an award-winning author, lifelong sailor, and horsewoman whose life story is as epic as the novels she writes. A former schoolteacher and graduate of the University of North Carolina Charlotte, Alison spent 30 years running an internationally successful equestrian program on her family farm in New Jersey. After raising three children with her husband Dan—whom she met during a sailboat race—they sold everything they owned to pursue their shared dream of circumnavigating the globe aboard their 43-foot sailboat. To date, Alison and Dan have traveled to 46 countries and recently crossed the Panama Canal, setting their course for the remote islands of French Polynesia. Her time at sea and her deep connection with both horses and people across cultures have inspired a powerful body of work spanning children’s literature, memoir, and adult fiction. Her books include the Rising Star Award-winning novel Blue Ridge, the magical children’s stories The Legend of Altor and Julia’s Vaulting Dream, and the nonfiction sailing memoir Riding the Waves of Reality: Tales of Turmoil and Triumph—with a sequel on the way. Her latest release, The Seven, is a sweeping and soul-stirring novel that blends fantasy with deeply rooted real-world experience. The story follows seven humans and seven horses in a tale that spans continents and cultures, asking one pivotal question: Can the hearts of a few determine the fate of all humanity? Alison is also preparing to release her newest children’s fantasy, Seanna: A Mermaid’s Tale—a story especially close to her heart. As someone who has always felt a magical connection to the sea and its mythical creatures, Alison brings the underwater world to life in this early reader chapter book. The story is being brought to even greater life through the artwork of seven-time international award-winning illustrator Barbara Owczarek, whose stunning illustrations add an extra layer of magic and wonder. Through it all, Alison remains deeply connected to the world around her—from the sea life off her bow to the ancient cultures in the world’s most remote places. Her journey is far from over, and with every mile sailed, a new story is waiting to be told. Learn more at https://alisongieschen.com. TOPICS OF CONVERSATION Origins of the Story – The Seven was inspired by a vivid dream involving horses that Alison couldn’t shake. Role of Horses as Moral Judges – Horses serve as spiritual mirrors and judges because of their innate ability to sense authenticity and emotion. Character Development and Diversity – Each character is based on real-life experiences and represents different cultures, showing humanity’s shared struggles. Emotional and Ethical Complexity – The book explores gray areas of morality, where judgment isn't black and white, especially in the human-horse confrontations. Themes of Disconnection and Hope – The story critiques modern disconnection while offering a message of hope, transformation, and reconnection with what truly matters. CONNECT WITH ALISON GIESCHEN! Author website: https://alisongieschen.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sailmates.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailmates_on_equus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-gieschen-24455429/