The sexual tension between the key protagonists is believable, as is the development of their relationship. The atmosphere in Sarah and Heath’s camping ground is at once intimate and claustrophobic. Brown demonstrates a vivid eye for detail. Witness lines such as: ‘Mist had blocked the stars and turned the full moon into a fuzzy grey disk.’

The plot – an unsuspecting and emotionally vulnerable woman falls for a dashing man with a shady past – is hardly original. Barnard does not attempt to subvert or rethink this scenario. As a result, Dark Horse becomes somewhat predictable. Towards the end, the novel shifts from a rural thriller to a courtroom drama. This episode is formulaic, as well as overly conversational. The suspense that ran through the earlier pages tends to dissipate.

Dark Horse is compelling and well-written. The book held this reviewer’s attention, at least for the most part. Unfortunately, Brown’s considerable literary talent cannot conceal the novel’s lack of freshness.