Cherry Tapley was a horse-crazed little girl who dreamed of riding but never had the chance — until 2013, when she finally took her first lesson. That experience opened her eyes to the heartbreaking reality faced by many horses — starvation, abuse, and neglect, often leading to slaughter. Determined to make a difference, she immersed herself in equine care, ultimately founding Nalani Horse Rescue in 2016.

As President and Executive Director, she has dedicated her life to saving and rehabilitating horses in need. But the journey wasn’t easy. In The Crushing Season, she shares her deeply personal journey of faith, resilience, and redemption – how seasons of brokenness ultimately prepared her to live out her true purpose. Through raw storytelling and heartfelt reflections, she invites readers to find hope in hardship and purpose in the most unlikely places.

When she’s not at the rescue, she enjoys spending time with her two grown sons and friends, visiting local wineries, and exploring the Virginia countryside.