Another wonderful Dick Francis book awaits the readers. The story is filled with characters that you can't help but care about. They find themselves caught in a complex web of intrigue, where every turn leads to a new mystery and danger. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the truth along with the characters. As you delve deeper into the book, you become fully immersed in their world, sharing their joys and sorrows. The web of intrigue seems to tighten with each passing page, making it impossible to put the book down. Whether you are a fan of mystery novels or just looking for a great read, this Dick Francis book is sure to satisfy your cravings.

I read a significant number of Dick Francis' works back in the 1990s. At that time, I was filled with curiosity as to whether those books would still maintain their charm and appeal after all these years. Well, to my great delight, they absolutely did. Even though I don't have a profound or intense interest in the intricate inner workings of horse racing, I find myself remaining highly impressed by how captivating the book is. It truly is a masterfully written story. The way Francis weaves the plot, develops the characters, and creates a vivid and engaging world within the pages is simply remarkable. It goes to show that a great story can transcend the subject matter and draw in readers from all walks of life, regardless of their initial level of interest in the specific topic.

I have just completed listening to the Recorded Books audiobook, which was read by the remarkable Simon Prebble. His narration truly enhanced these stories. I vividly remember reading and rereading all these books when they were first released, but it has been decades since then. Now, experiencing them in audiobook format has been a delight.

The only aspect that prevented this particular book from receiving a full five stars is the very end. I had hoped that Sid would take a more Indiana Jones-like approach towards the guy who threatened him, rather than simply staring him to death. However, I suppose that's the difference between Americans and Brits.

Aside from that minor flaw in the plot, and the fact that Sid never tells his wife what a total **** she is and that he's glad to be rid of her (which I really wanted him to do!), this is an outstanding book. It's not even really about the mysteries. Instead, it delves deep into the nature of the human heart, the importance of self-knowledge, the concept of fear, and the meaning of honor. Dick Francis was undoubtedly a genius. These books not only withstand a reread, but they actually improve with each new encounter.

Book # 2 in the Sid Halley series takes readers on an exciting and complex journey. Sid's once-thriving career as a top-rated jockey was abruptly cut short when a horse rolled over onto him, severely crushing his left hand. The hand had to be amputated, and now he wears a highly advanced prosthesis. Despite this setback, Sid's spirit remains unbroken.

The plot of this book is filled with intricate details and weaves together a couple of different mysteries. These mysteries involve unethical business dealings and are closely tied to Sid's two great loves: his ex-wife Jenny and the world of thoroughbred racing. One of these mysteries poses a serious threat to Sid's life and his mental well-being. Both mysteries are complex and require all of Sid's skills and determination to uncover the truth and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Sid is forced to confront his deepest fears and ask himself the question: Is there anything you're afraid of? I have a deep affection for Sid. He is a character who is determined, inquisitive, courageous, and firmly principled. He also has a great sidekick in Chico, and his father-in-law is there to support him as well. This combination of qualities and relationships makes Sid a truly engaging and memorable character.

Taut Tale

This is an extremely absorbing story that commences in a rather low-key manner. However, as it progresses, it gradually unfolds into a narrative filled with a plethora of action, which at times can be brutally intense. The story delves deep into the equine racing world, encompassing both flat racing and jumps. There is an abundance of detailed information provided about this particular domain, giving readers a comprehensive understanding. Additionally, it offers a great deal of psychological insight into human relationships and their failings. The focus here is mainly on Sid's marriage and subsequent divorce. Through this exploration, the author manages to bring out the complex emotions and dynamics that are involved in such situations. Overall, it is a captivating tale that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

I listened to this book more than twenty years ago, and then, on a road trip with my grandsons, I gave it a re-listen. It was truly a remarkable experience. Sid Halley, the protagonist, is a former jockey. Due to the loss of his hand in a riding accident, he had to give up his deep love for riding horses. However, he soon proved himself as a talented private investigator.

In "Whip Hand", Halley is entrusted with three distinct problems. First, he needs to figure out if foul play is the cause of the illnesses that have afflicted a trainer's most promising horses. Second, he has to locate his ex-wife's boyfriend who has defrauded the public and left her in a difficult situation. Third, he must determine whether criminal elements have infiltrated a horse syndicate.

Just like all of Francis's books, this one takes the reader on a wild ride filled with plenty of action and惊心动魄 escapes for the protagonist. Sid Halley is one of Francis's most endearing characters. He is smart, resourceful, and determined. To succeed in the tasks ahead of him, he must overcome his own inner demons. It's always a fun read that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Another book from my library bookshelf challenge.

I didn't realize it was the second in a series initially. However, not having all the background information didn't turn out to be too much of a drawback.

This book is nothing earth-shattering, but it is a solid English detective story set in the exciting world of horse racing.

The main characters are quite likable. They are not one-dimensional or shallow. Instead, they have their own personalities and quirks that make them interesting to follow.

The story unfolds with a series of mysteries and investigations related to the horse racing scene. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.

Overall, it's an enjoyable read that provides a good escape into the world of detective work and horse racing.

Even though it's part of a series, it can still be appreciated on its own merits.

If you're a fan of detective novels or the horse racing world, this book might be worth checking out.

It's a great addition to any bookshelf and a fun way to pass the time.

3 - 3.5 stars

The final quarter of the book was truly a disappointment. Sid Halley provided an excessive amount of information all at once, and everything was resolved far too neatly.

This book had a promising start. It boasted a great leading character and an intriguing mystery. However, there were just too many side-mysteries. These additional plotlines made the overall story overly convoluted and difficult to follow.

Moreover, I found myself increasingly losing track of all the side characters. There were simply too many of them, each with their own storylines and subplots. As a result, the book felt a bit overwhelming at times.

Despite these flaws, there were still some aspects of the book that I enjoyed. The writing was engaging, and the main mystery was interesting enough to keep me reading until the end.

Overall, I would rate this book as 3 - 3.5 stars. It had its strengths, but also its weaknesses. If you're a fan of mystery novels, it might be worth giving this one a try, but don't expect a perfect read.

Sid is approached to look into promising horses who suddenly become ill.

This situation presents a mystery that Sid is eager to solve. The sudden illness of these promising horses is a cause for concern, and Sid is determined to get to the bottom of it.

He begins his investigation by gathering as much information as possible about the horses, their recent activities, and any possible factors that could have contributed to their illness.

Sid knows that time is of the essence, as the health of the horses is at stake. He works tirelessly, interviewing trainers, jockeys, and anyone else who may have had contact with the horses.

As he delves deeper into the case, Sid uncovers some unexpected clues that lead him in a new direction.

I wish there were more Dick Francis books I haven't read yet. His stories are always so engaging and full of mystery, and this one is no exception.

I can't wait to see how Sid solves the mystery of the sick horses and what other adventures await him.

Sid Halley is still the same kind and nice guy as he was in the first book.

I have a great liking for him. However, the subject matter of this book is not as interesting to me as that in Francis' first book.

The scene where Sid is sailing in a hot air balloon with a crazy guy seems a bit excessive to me.

His discovery of a dread disease that was affecting winning horses is rather complicated.

The intense fear Sid had of losing his right hand as well made him feel down for a while.

But eventually, he returned to being the same old Sid and did what he had to do.

The ending was a surprise. I might give the third book in the series a try.

Maybe it will offer a more engaging and captivating story that will keep me hooked from start to finish.

I'm looking forward to seeing what new adventures and challenges Sid will face in the next installment.

Listened to the BBC full cast audio.

Overall, it was just okay. The story itself was decent.

However, I was constantly distracted by being repeatedly informed that it was a full cast BBC adaption.

Moreover, there were way too long chapter breaks.

It had parts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of "Whip Hand", and these lengthy breaks really took me out of the story.

I found it difficult to maintain my focus and get fully immersed in the narrative.

The constant interruptions for the chapter breaks and the emphasis on the BBC adaption aspect detracted from the overall listening experience.

Perhaps if the breaks were shorter and the self-promotion of the adaption was less prominent, I would have been able to enjoy the story more fully.

As it was, it felt a bit disjointed and made it hard for me to truly engage with the characters and the plot.

The original text seems a bit unclear. However, I'll try to expand and rewrite it based on what I understand.

Review to follow soon!

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