A review by dosxhime
Dark Horses by Susan Mihalic
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Dark Horses really was up there for darkest books I read so far.
The abuse Roan suffered from her family was all too real and it made her circumstances all the more tragic. Here only real hope was Jasper, Will, and horseback riding. There was very little for her to look forward to in the face of her father's abuse, however her growth was satisfying and cathartic to read. I cheered when she cut her hair and called her father out for what he is.
I will say that the romance aspect was a little meh. It kinda just felt like they were there and treted each other decently/normally and that was why Will and Roan fell for each other. The resolution between Roan and her father wasn't as satisfying as I thought it would be since it kind of felt half-assed I guess. He doesn't get ruined in the way that I hoped.
Anyways, Roan's growth was impeccable and is really the bread-n-butter of this novel.
4.5 / 5 A-
The abuse Roan suffered from her family was all too real and it made her circumstances all the more tragic. Here only real hope was Jasper, Will, and horseback riding. There was very little for her to look forward to in the face of her father's abuse, however her growth was satisfying and cathartic to read. I cheered when she cut her hair and called her father out for what he is.
I will say that the romance aspect was a little meh. It kinda just felt like they were there and treted each other decently/normally and that was why Will and Roan fell for each other. The resolution between Roan and her father wasn't as satisfying as I thought it would be since it kind of felt half-assed I guess. He doesn't get ruined in the way that I hoped.
Anyways, Roan's growth was impeccable and is really the bread-n-butter of this novel.
4.5 / 5 A-
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship, Medical content, Rape, Incest, Sexual content, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Child abuse, Animal death, Violence, and Pedophilia
Moderate: Alcoholism and Alcohol
Minor: Drug use, Abandonment, Panic attacks/disorders, Infidelity, Confinement, and Bullying