Dark Horses: A Novel

Roan Montgomery is an equestrian prodigy, and aiming for the Olympics. Greatness is in her blood, and her coach and father Monty was a champion rider who expects only the best of her. But their relationship is not as it seems. Monty exudes a professional, shiny persona, but behind closed doors he controls Roan’s every move and violates her in every way possible.

Susan Mihalic tackles very dark and disturbing topics in Dark Horses. It is difficult to read Roan’s account of her sexual abuse, juggling her feelings between her professional ambition and desire to live her own life. However, this novel is exceptionally written and urges the reader to consider the underlying duplicity of Monty’s dual personalities and Roan’s impossible battle to break free of his control. It is hard to believe that Roan is only fifteen, yet deals with such emotional distress with maturity and strength. I felt sympathy for her, yet wanted so badly for her to find someone to confide in that could help her escape her abuse. This novel is a triggering, yet impactful read.