If there is one trait above all else that a jockey needs in steeplechase racing, it’s nerve. Junior jockey Rob Finn has plenty of it. The rest of his family have made it big in the world of classical music, but Rob never fit into that world, instead being drawn to the active and risky world of horse racing. But just when he had caught his big break and was finally getting rides, wins, and the recognition that goes with it, everything comes tumbling down. After a nasty fall during a race, a string of last place finishes just about does him in. They’re saying he’s lost his nerve. But to Finn’s mind, there is something far more devious at play and he is determined to discover its source and get his revenge.

This is the second published work of fiction (1964) by the esteemed Dick Francis. The author was, himself, a champion steeplechase jockey so the horse racing scenes, the preparation activities for each race, and the overall racing business environment always ring true and full of authenticity. I think what I like best about Dick Francis novels is the way they are structured not just as detective or mystery plots, but as genuine stories. This novel, like most of his fictional work, is narrated by the main character which always brings an added feeling of “connection” with him. While I would not have made the same choices as Finn does, he does make rational choices true to his character. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel all the way through.

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a Dick Francis novel, but this one has jump-started my desire to add him into my regular rotation. Looking forward to a long list of must-reads to come.