So incredible. I often feel like there is a huge hole in the genre at the moment where transmasc voices aren’t given the platform they deserve and I am so glad that Radclyffe is a figurehead for filling that hole. A masterful storyteller with such a profound outlook of his life and transition, I adored it.

Frighten the Horses follows the many transitions of Oliver Radclyffe, from carefree country bumpkin, to rebellious biker, stay at home wife, to queer woman and finally a trans man. This book is an important piece of representation and I learned a lot reading it. This book is both profound, heartbreaking, witty and informative. I found myself rooting for Oliver to overcome his struggles and find himself and his peace. He is remarkably honest throughout, and I particularly appreciated that he acknowledges his various privileges and takes accountability for his decisions and behaviours.

As a trans masculine person myself, there was plenty here that echoed my own experiences but lots to learn from too. I'd recommend to both other queer people and to people looking to learn more about a transmasculine and trans identities.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Grove Press UK for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Frighten the Horses by Oliver Radclyffe is a moving memoir following his transition in his 40s.

Radclyffe's writing straddles the past and present making for a compelling read you feel emotionally invested in from the beginning. 'Frighten the Horses' is a title inspired by the phrase that means to cause public outrage or offence; this is very timely with the new administration in the USA where trans lives are threatened and endangered even more so. Radclyffe's memoir is incredibly important as it highlights the existence of life-saving groups which saved his life, and the lives and sanity of many others. It reminds all how important community care must remain, especially as Radclyffe's experience also demonstrates how isolating transition can be and how integral safe spaces and relationships are.

Radclyffe does not shy away from questioning his internalised homophobia and transphobia during transition too. This, in particular, is what provides this memoir with a sense of 'required reading' for many. As it asks the questions many who are not sure about gender and body dysphoria, or have little understanding about transition, likely have.

Thus, Frighten the Horses is a book for everyone, and should be read by everyone. It is sincere and it is hopeful; I am grateful to Radclyffe for sharing his story with us.