I've loved Dick Francis' books since I was in high school, and own a complete collection of his novels. To say that the son does not live up to his father's writing would be understating the obvious. I've been trying to read through his books. I powered through Silks, and Gamble... but the fire that marked Dick Francis' work as an expert in his craft.. it's just not there. To drag poor old Sid Halley back up simply adds insult to injury. The protagonists in the previous novels have at least been mildly interesting. This Sid Halley was a shadow of his former self, a sad parody of a legendary character. The first time I read one of these knock-offs, I desperately wanted to edit the book and return the manuscript to the writer. With this book, there was one scene in particular that just had me shaking my head. In the first discussion with Paddy, the dialogue reads exactly as if Sid were recounting the conversation later. It felt so wrong, so very out of place, to read Halley's words coming from Paddy. It was as if someone were trying to emulate the great Mr. Francis, but wasn't quite up to the task. I'm afraid that, as much as I have loved Dick's books for the past two decades, that the time has come to accept that there will be no more thrilling roller coaster rides from my favorite author's efforts. His final race has been run, to the sorrow of his fans. I wish Felix good luck in perfecting his craft and honing his efforts. I hope he will do so by striking out on his own and producing work that reflects his own voice, rather than trying to cling to the coattails of his father. His original writing certainly has potential. Attempting to copy his father's style only stifles whatever promise he's shown, and it's an unkindness to both father and son. I like the racing stories that father, Dick Francis, and now son, Felix write. I was not familiar w/the main person, Sid Halley, but liked the character a lot. Now will look for other books noting him.It was a fascinating story, always more to learn about racing. I am not familiar w/jumping racing as they have in Europe, so found that to be interesting. Finding that they have "bookies" at the track is very different from USA. The Irishman was quite an evil person and everyone was scared of him. Sid was able to figure that out and made plans to "foil his evil doings". It was quite interesting how he came about doing so.A good read and not my last of the series.
What do You think about Refusal (2013)?
Fast read. The bad guys are really,really bad; and the good guys are charming.
—Alie
Haven't read this author but liked the style. Interesting mystery
—galindo40
As usual, a taut mystery that is thoroughly enjoyable.
—Yuii
