Flying Finish

When you read a Dick Francis novel you know that you are not only getting a great read but you are also getting a book written by a writer who knows his subject. Dick Francis was one of the world's greatest jockeys. Talk about horses and racing - he knew his subject. He was also Queen Elizabeth's and her mother's rider for many years. A great athlete!

Dick Frances never writes the same story twice though he does use a winner take all formula. Henry Grey is the heir to an Earldom and to escape a deadly path ordained by his existence he takes a job flying an airplane that transports horses. The planes are as elderly as his father and poorly maintained, but when he discovers the true nature of his flights he fights back with all the fearlessness of honor betrayed. His efforts are hampered by a sadistic goon who uses cruelty to hid his hatred of the different. The main story takes place high in the sky with "George" flying the plane as Henry fights for his life, the Italian girl he has learned to love and the horses in his care. A good read from an author who has given us many mysteries of unfailing suspense. Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS and QUALIFYING LAPS.

I loved this book, exciting from beginning to end, and thought the villains were particularly well-done!

This is a novel about another of Francis' lonely heros, caught between social classes and fairly mysterious to most of those who know him. This one ends up having a fairly riveting story, with genuinely unpleasant villains. as with most of Francis' heros, he is deceptively stubborn and survives hideous experiences to bring things to a safe conclusion. This one, however, leaves some loos ends hanging. We are lefft wondering what will happen to his Italian girlfriend (characteristically, for this hero, they are instantly in love but can't speak the same language, so there is a distance between them, as there is with the rest of the hero's family and acquaintances) and what choices he will make about the rest of his life.

Excuse my poor English, I am the Ukrainian. I was overjoyed to read this book. The main lesson that man have to learn is how to resist to the deadline and what is the vigour exactly.