This was an enjoyable read and the family dynamics of the Stratton family were intriguing. Lee's trust of his children was good to see and is something that can be lacking today. However, Lee's behavior towards his wife and other women is problematic at best. Working through the family dynamics to reach the best resolution shows that having money and power doesn't indicate a happy or healthy family.

See Nolan's review for a summary of the plot.

How did Mr. Francis do it -- write such diverse books about characters that I'd wish to become friends with them; never mind their flaws. OK, so Amanda Morris likes to have kids. Obviously, so does Lee Morris. (Seven boys!) Never mind the 178 pp, which is complicated; see Nolan's plot. Lee straightens out everyone & the rotten instigator predictably gets killed. But I'd like to see Lee's work! Ah, well.

A rollercoaster!

This is one of Dick Francis' later books. I picked it out of my bookcase at random, feeling the need for a Dick Francis comfort read. As soon as I began, I remembered not enjoying this one as much as his earlier novels, but thirty years on I've whizzed through it with relish!

Lee Morris is an architect and builder with six sons and a rocky marriage. Francis has moved away from jockey heroes, then, but not too far, as the plot revolves around a failing racecourse owned by a demonic family with whom Morris has a familial connection. The plot twists and turns in a jovial and cleverly crafted manner, and I raced to the end with great enjoyment. In some ways this book made me long for the simplicity of life thirty years ago.

So now I'm giving it five stars. Would I read it again? Yes, but I'll probably be dead in another thirty years, so: much sooner!!