Marcus Sedgwick’s The Dark Horse is a surprisingly interesting read that really draws you in. “Set in a different time, a different place”, it always keeps the story moving forward while still developing the characters. I found the characters realistic with the sort of strengths and flaws to which many readers can relate.

It follows the story of Sigurd’s people, the Storn, and the events that lead them to the brink of utter destruction and to a new future. It begins with the finding of Mouse, a strange girl found living with wolves then taken in to be raised as Sigurd’s sister. Even after living with the Storn for a while she is still considered an outcast, more animal then human in some aspects.  Much of the mystery in the book surrounds Mouse, her strange powers and forgotten past.

Sigurd and Mouse play major roles in The Dark Horse, with most of the story being told from Sigurd’s point of view. Both characters face difficult choices because of their destiny, one to be the saviour of the Storn and the other to potentially be its destroyer.

Other subplots run through the book, such as the bitter rivalry between Sigurd’s proud but defeated father and Horn, the cruel, greedy man who the reader has no choice but to despise. Sedgwick’s characters are well developed with depth and emotion. Pride, courage, greed and jealousy are wonderfully portrayed in many of the characters.

 Personally, I found it hard to put down as I kept reading, eager to find out what is meant by the dark horse of the title. The twist at the end was not totally unexpected but still surprising.

Review by Hayley Stakelum

© 2004 Hayley Stakelum