Front Runner

A Dick Francis Novel

By: Felix Francis

Narrated by: Martin Jarvis

British investigator Jefferson Hinkley is back in this compelling Dick Francis thriller by the New York Times–bestselling author of Crisis.

In his role as an undercover investigator for the British Horseracing Authority, Jeff Hinkley is approached by a multi-time champion jockey to discuss the delicate matter of losing races on purpose. Little does he know that the call will set off a lethal chain of events, including the apparent suicide of the jockey and an attempt on Hinkley’s own life.

Never one to leave suspicious events alone, Hinkley begins investigating the jockey and the races he may have thrown. But there are others out there who intend to prevent his inquiry from probing further … at any cost.

©2015 Felix Francis (P)2015 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

"Seasoned actor and narrator Martin Jarvis reads with gusto, displaying both his experience and long association with the series, as well as his talent for accents and characterization. Jarvis makes this an easy listening adventure, reflecting the suspense in the plot with excellent timing and creating a wide range of distinct characters that span the whole of the horse-racing scene and the world beyond."—AudioFile

“Francis once again proves himself worthy of wearing his father’s colors. This latest effort has an absolutely propulsive plot that will remind Dick Francis fans of his classic nail-biters … This one’s a stunner.”—Booklist (starred review)

Main character is not likable

For many reasons main character seems to be a snitch. That is very unusual and unfortunate for Francis book. Also the split into two crimes doesn’t work the way author intended. Disappointed

Another very excellent book!

I have to say that I thought that no one could equal Dick Francis. His son, Felix, has done a bang-up job! I am enjoying them tremendously!

Not the best

Martin Jarvis is always wonderful but he didn't have a outstanding book this time. The plot was ok, fast at some points and slow at others. The protagonist was a little slow to figure out what was going on, the love story was sappy, and the climax not very climatic.

Great story - kept me guessing till the end

Felix Learned well from his father. The stories examine racing for all the good and the bad.

Good read!

The son is starting to get better. I hope he still has a lot of material to write about. The character is likeable but there's just something missing from his inner quality. Can't put my finger quite on it. . I'm sure Mr. Felix Francis will one day get it spot on.

Well plotted, well done, in top Francis style. <br /><br /><br />

After keenly missing Dick Francis' sharp, well researched books, this one delivers. Bravo Felix Francis.

Author and narrator have had better

The flawed logic in the very beginning nearly stopped me reading this, but I persisted, in the end skipping pages at a time. Sorry I bothered! The poor hero kept screwing up, and the poor author kept having him explain in excruciating detail how he missed the obvious. Sorry, Felix!
Martin Jarvis narrated 101 Dalmatians, which I liked very much. That's probably why this effort was so irritating - it's ok for dogs to smirk and simper, not love interests. Sorry, Martin!

Good addition to the series

OK, Felix clearly understands his father's formula. at times it was too predictable--I knew exactly when 'the girl' would show up. But the series really needs to come into the 21st century. Women characters need stronger roles! I may try one more but I really hope for more contemporary character development and plotting.

Best narrator

Best narrator -- he should do all the Francis' books. He has a beautiful voice and storytelling ability.

Pretty good!

Slow-to-build story but good plot line. This is one of Felix Francis' compositions. I enjoyed listening and will listen again in a year or 2. Martin Jarvis is great.