Dead Cert

What kid hasn't listened in on the telephone? Bill Davidson's children did just that, but didn't realize they hold the key to their father's killer. Alan York loves racing and left home in South Africa to follow his dream. When he emerged from the fog of a steeple chase race he didn't find his friend a winner, but dead in a manner that was no accident. Greed and fixed races were behind Bill's death and leave Allan the owner of Admiral and fighting for his own life. Dead Cert is one of the riveting reads of a long career. Enjoy! Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS and QUALIFYING LAPS.

In yet another gripping story of mystery, murder and British steeplechasing, Dick Francis continues his amazing streak of hit novels.His real appeal is not racing or mystery however, it is his ability to create characters who are admirable, honorable and self-reliant. If you're looking for troubled, self-loathers who "somehow" overcome their weakness and become unwilling and unwitting heroes, don't look here. Francis' heroes revel in their abilities to withstand evil, overcome it, and end up smiling in spite of it all.Kudos once again for Dick Francis and Dead Cert!

Dick Francis didn't save the best for last. I have read all the DF novels except Blood Sport, which I have ordered and expect it anyday. I have loved every single one, but Dead Cert is my favorite, although Bonecrack and Whip Hand are close favorites.Dick Francis is an excellent author because he is a master at combining three elements into his novels. Horses:), danger and mystery, and romance. If anybody reading this reveiw has never read a DF novel, please do so, you won't regret it!

This is the first of Dick Francis' racing novels, although not the first I read. In fact, I was amazed to see it was numero uno. Even Robert Parker, another mystery master, took one novel to get it right. Francis, in racetrack parlance, broke from the gate fast. All the elements are there: A likeable hero who pursues the truth at great personal risk; a sweet but never turn-the-page-torrid romance with a bend in the road; outside knowledge about an interesting field, and an interesting villain one can almost sympathize with on some level. It grabs you right away with the murder of a jockey during a race and never lets go, right to the surprising conclusion -- one, incidentally, which our hero desperately wanted not to be so. Enjoy. It's a great start to a great, long ride. Francis' first and one of his best.

While savoring each page of this book, I found it hard to believe this was Dick's first work. The plotting is complex, airtight and delightful; the characters each distinct and realistic. For some reason, at times I felt like the plot had elements from "The Avengers" (the classic television series, not the dud movie), although done more seriously. The book was as entertaining to read as the series was to watch. Dick builds suspense masterfully. There is one scene in particular, a "cat and mouse" hunt, that Dick draws so skillfully. The reader experiences the slow tension build up, until he or she is almost in a sort of agony, as the scene continues and continues and continues. Dick has a knack for really getting into his characters' heads and the worlds they live in. As a result, the reader is able to identify with the narrator, who gets caught up unexpectedly and deeper in intrigue, in a weirdly engaging film noir-ish style, but not quite as dark. Dick cert makes writing look effortless!