New York Times-bestselling author Felix Francis is back with this thrilling adventure in the Dick Francis tradition.A smartly-dressed man has been found unconscious at the local racecourse and is rushed to the hospital, where he subsequently dies. But who is he? Where does he come from? He had no form of identification on him, and no one claims the body. Doctor Chris Reynolds, a specialist who … Chris Reynolds, a specialist who treated the deceased—and who struggles with mental health issues—is intrigued by the nameless dead man, obsessed even, and starts asking questions. However, someone doesn’t want the questions answered and will go to any lengths to prevent it, including an attempted murder. But when no one will believe that someone tried to kill Chris, the doctor is left with no option but to discover who the nameless man was and why he died…preferably before following him into an early grave.
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I have been a Dick Francis fan since I read my first book of his in the 60’s. I’ve read them all and loved them all, although some were clearly faves over others. I own them all and reread the lot on average every two years. I was delighted that his son would carry on after Dick’s death. I expected the same general feel to the books, but expected to see some differences, to see Felix’s individualism shine through as well. I have not been disappointed–until now. I welcome the female protagonist and have always appreciated how Francis’ characters were always likable despite their flaws. Their flaws made them human. Their struggles to overcome those flaws made them likable. This protagonist is simply annoying. The early part of the book drags on and on as she struggles with mental health issues, including contemplation of suicide. But despite dealing with these types of issues, she just flat isn’t likable. She lies to her husband over and over, but not for reasons that would evoke empathy. She just lies. She ignores repeated requests to stay out of issues that are properly handled in other ways. The entire plot is simply not presented in a believable way. It lacks the Francis magic. I read the whole thing, hoping it would eventually become more “Francis-like,” but it never did. First time I have ever regretted buying a Francis book. Next time I will wait and just get it from the library. If later books improve, I’ll go back to buying them.
The Francis family has a firm grip on horse racing in Great Britain. If it has the Francis name, I buy it and read it right away.
Love all his books!
Thought provoking tale of a female vet with mental illness who discovers a murder and a betting scam, but can’t get anyone to believe her.
As good as his fathers writing
This book doesn’t even resemble a Dick Francis novel. Plot is weak and boring, dialogue is not authentic, and none of the characters draw you in to give a fig about them. I was very disappointed in the book and quit reading it about half way through.
Another worthy entry in the fine tradition of the Francis cannon!
I have been a Dick Francis and his son’s continuation for a long time. I love the English racing background in most of the books and the interesting ways they find to insert new characters who still have a connection to racing. This heroine is a woman Doctor, quite a change and the fact that she is fighting her own battles with mental health issues adds a formidable handicap. I have conquered panic disorder so this was a great read for me.
He and his father Dick are my all time favorites! Buy & read them all over & over!
Did not enjoy the story.
As a long time admirer of Dick Francis & Felix Francis-his son- was true to form! Starts of good & keeps you reading to see whats next! And as usual due to the plot is interesting to see how it ends up, or if you can figure the ending. Overall another good read!
Good book son writes like his father
Dick Francis is the best when it comes to story telling and mystery!
Female protagonist facing a very every day problem in addition to the race track mystery. Great read!
Not equal to the writings of his father at all!
It was in the manner of Dick – but, the feeling of the racetrack was missing.
A good study of eating and depression diseases. A bit too much time in heroine’s head.
Well written and easy to read. All in all – eien’t jump the fences as well as I would have liked
Loved his Dad’s books and love his books. Keep them coming!
Dick Francis would be proud of Felix’s work.
Nowhere as good as his father either in terms plot or writing style
This is the only one of the Dick Francis books I remember that has a woman be the main character — and she is a woman doctor with an eating disorder!
While I had no idea who the main bad guy eventually revealed himself to be, I did learn a lot about eating disorders. This is probably the first time I’ve encountered the information, certainly in a novel! I enjoyed the book and the information very much.