Even Money

By: Dick Francis, Felix Francis

Narrated by: Tony Britton

On the first day of Royal Ascot, the crowd rejoices in a string of winning favourites.

Ned Talbot has worked all his life as a bookmaker - taking over the family business from his grandfather - so he knows not to expect any sympathy from the punters as they count their winnings, and he counts his losses. He’s seen the ups and downs before - but, as the big gambling conglomerates muscle in on small concerns like his, Ned wonders if it’s worth it any more.

Then, when a grey-haired man steps forward from the crowd claiming to be his father, Ned’s life is thrown into far deeper turmoil.

©2009 Dick Francis (P)2014 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd.

on the money

Where does Even Money rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

it is good i like the style of dick francis and the racing scene they get you hooked

What other book might you compare Even Money to and why?

they help to understand the race industry of unscruples characters

Which character – as performed by Tony Britton – was your favorite?

yes i think he has a good insight into the racing life

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

nothing tony britton always doe,s a great job

Reassuringly 'decent' characters

Desite the odd murder and person of evil intent, the Dick Francis books are a consistently and reassuringly the England of a few decades ago: the dramas of the racecourse (never attended one in my life and never likely to, so this is a new world) and traditions of basic decency being upheld.

This book held my interest throughout, the characters are alive and entertaining and it culminated in an unrushed and satisfying conclusion.

And speaking of old boys, I always find the voice of Tony Britton, excellent reader that he is, much older than the late thirty something that is required in the Francis books. Also, his women's voices leave a lot to be desired. But for all that, his moderate and thoughtful tone underscores the world and its values that are being evoked.

Dreadful start, Great finish

Would you consider the audio edition of Even Money to be better than the print version?

I haven't read it.

Would you recommend Even Money to your friends? Why or why not?

Very depressing first 3 hours. I also didn't relate to him as he makes bad decisions. I love Dick Francis so I assumed it would get better. The last hour is great and exciting and very positive.
It become a good story, but I wouldn't recommend it as it took too long to get into.

One of the cleaner ones.

This is pretty clean sex wise. It doesn't go into as much detail as some of the other ones. There is still some swearing in it though. At lease 3 f words.