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...