DARK HORSE Dick Francis, Book 14

Martin Jarvis and Anna Burnett deftly present this two-part story of a young steeplechase jumper, Imogen, and her jockey boyfriend, Liam. Burnett's portrayal of determined Imogen's growing success is exciting, while details about horses, racing, and jockeys add interest. Drama escalates as Imogen defends herself against a violently jealous Liam and, unwisely, threatens him. Listeners will be distressed when she's arrested for his murder. In Part Two, Jarvis' mature vocal style reintroduces Sid Halley, a gravelly voiced former jockey who was featured in the author's father Dick Francis' books and who is now a private investigator. Sid and the legal defense team add excitement with relentless legal maneuvers that carry the story's weak plot. A breathless climax demonstrates the power of audiobook listening. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2025]