"This is an engaging read, which has enough in the way of subplots and character development to appeal to more than horse enthusiasts. Frankie is a realistic, imperfect protagonist who is sure to engage young readers. As a horse rider and as someone who has dabbled in natural horsemanship, it’s great to see it becoming more mainstream and being represented in literature for young people. This book will appeal to upper primary and lower secondary ages, and should do well in school and public libraries. Recommended, especially for horse lovers." - Children’s Book Council of Australia (read more).
”Frankie has wide appeal beyond those who enjoy horse books – in fact the horse themes are more a vehicle for looking at contemporary issues facing tweens and teens. This first novel touches on same sex relationships and family breakdown, overuse/addiction to technology and subtle bullying. Highly recommended for readers from 10+.” - Children’s Books Daily (read more).
"This is a great horse book that my daughters, who were both riders, would have loved. But it is much more - with themes of fitting in, family breakups, overuse of technology, bullying and striving for your best, it is also overflowing with emotion. The first in a series of Dream Rider stories that is sure to be popular with lots of girls aged 8—12.” - Lamont Books (read more)
"The book touches on some hard issues like separated/divorced parents, the sexual orientation of one parent changing, the difficulties involved with an unwanted lifestyle change, friendship dramas, bullying, cyber addiction, a minor mention of eating disorders, and a parent with a minor form of depression but each situation is dealt with using sensitivity and understanding and the book never feels weighed down by any of these fairly serious subjects. This would be a great book for graduates of books such as the ‘Saddle Club’ who still love horses but would like something a little older or more challenging.” - Storylinks (read more).