Peak Picks & Reviews

Courage is lonely. Introduction  Come to Grief by Dick Francis is a gripping novel that combines the thrilling worlds of horse racing and crime investigation. Published in 1995, this book is part of the Sid Halley series, featuring an ex-jockey turned detective. Francis, known for his background in horse racing and experience as a jockey, brings authenticity and depth to this novel, which explores themes of betrayal, resilience, and moral integrity. The novel follows Sid Halley, who is faced with a disturbing investigation involving a friend, Ellis Quint, who has been accused of a series of horrifying crimes. Through its compelling characters, intricate plot, and a strong thematic focus, Come to Grief engages readers in a world where trust is tested and justice is pursued against the odds. Synopsis  The protagonist, Sid Halley, is a former champion jockey who now works as a private investigator. Halley’s life took a drastic turn after a career-ending injury, leaving him with a...

Humiliation and rejection and helplessness and failure… After all these years I would not, I thought wretchedly, I would damned well not be defeated by fear. Introduction  Whip Hand by Dick Francis, published in 1979, is a riveting crime thriller that marks the second entry in the Sid Halley series. Following its predecessor Odds Against, the novel continues the journey of Halley, a former jockey turned private investigator. The book showcases Francis's deftness in blending the worlds of horse racing and detective fiction, a combination that solidifies his reputation as a master of the genre. Notably, Whip Hand won the Crime Writers' Association Gold Dagger Award, further cementing its status as a quintessential crime novel of its time​. Synopsis  The story revolves around Sid Halley, a former champion jockey who is now a private investigator after an injury ended his riding career. Halley is approached by Rosemary Caspar, the wife of a prestigious horse trainer, George Caspar...

Live now, hurt later. Introduction  In Forfeit, Dick Francis, known for his mastery in crafting thrilling mystery novels, delivers another compelling narrative centered on the world of horse racing. Published in 1969, Forfeit draws readers into a tangled web of deceit, blackmail, and personal tragedy while keeping them on the edge of their seats with a gripping plot. Francis, a former champion jockey himself, brings authenticity and precision to the details of horse racing, making it an essential backdrop to his narratives. The book’s protagonist, James Tyrone, is not a jockey or a detective, but a racing journalist, which gives the novel a unique twist as he embarks on a harrowing investigation into corruption within the industry he reports on. With its suspenseful pacing, relatable characters, and intricate mystery, Forfeit is a standout among Francis' impressive body of work. Synopsis  The story follows James Tyrone, a racing correspondent for a British newspaper, who finds...