Steeplechase jockey Christmas "Kit" Fielding is no stranger to close calls, both on and off the course. But when a long-standing grudge between his family and his sister's in-laws turns into a devastating blood feud, Kit finds himself facing the race of a lifetime. As the Fieldings, Kim and Kit, become entangled in a bitter dispute over their family's stables, Kit finds himself facing the race of a lifetime. Meanwhile, the retired racehorse North Face, previously owned by Captain Kirkwood's daughter, gains attention as financial troubles loom over the Kirkwood family. Secrets unravel, alliances are forged, and Kit must navigate the treacherous track of horse racing while untangling the mysterious web of deception surrounding him. Dick Francis, renowned for his thrilling tales, delivers once again with his trademark style and attention to detail, immersing readers in a world where danger collides with courage.
After a number of horses are shot by someone using a weapon called a "humane killer," steeple chase jockey Kit Fielding vows to stop the killing