A review by letmollyread
White Horse by Erika T. Wurth

challenging emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Kari James is an Urban Native who spends her time either reading or watching horror, listening to heavy metal, and hanging out at her favorite local dive bar, the White Horse. When her cousin gifts her a bracelet that unknowingly contains her mother’s spirit, the details of her mother’s past and disappearance refuse to stay a mystery much longer. Kari feels obligated to follow the clues, facing down the monster haunting the piece of jewelry and uncovering what family and community have refused to acknowledge for years. 

This was my first step into horror and I think it’s a nice entry point. There is mystery, some dark elements, multiple references to Stephen King, but it trends more on the side of mystery than scary horror. I loved the relationship between Kari and her cousin Debby, and Kari’s examination of culture and family. It’s a very atmospheric read with a satisfying ending! This was my choice for the Diverse Baseline prompt eight: a book by an indigenous author!