Dick Francis
Dick Francis
31 October 1920 – 14 February 2010 · From United Kingdom- Books
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About
Dick Francis (1920–2010) was a British steeplechase jockey turned crime novelist.
Born in Coedcanlas, Pembrokeshire, Wales, he served as an RAF pilot in the Second World War before becoming one of Britain's leading National Hunt jockeys, riding over 350 winners and serving as jockey to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother — most famously aboard Devon Loch, which collapsed within sight of victory in the 1956 Grand National.
After retiring from racing in 1957 he became a journalist and then a novelist, publishing more than forty bestselling thrillers, most set against the world of horse racing. In his later years he co-wrote several novels with his son, Felix Francis, who has continued the "Dick Francis" series since his father's death in 2010.
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Mystery Fiction Thriller Crime Suspense
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Frequently asked questions
Many readers suggest starting with "Odds Against" as it introduces the recurring character Sid Halley, a former jockey turned investigator, who appears in several of Francis's novels. It's a strong example of his signature blend of horse racing intrigue and mystery.
While most of Dick Francis's novels are standalone mysteries, a few feature recurring protagonists. The most notable is Sid Halley, who appears in "Odds Against," "Whip Hand," "Come to Grief," and "Under Orders."
Dick Francis received numerous accolades for his work, including the Crime Writers' Association's Gold Dagger Award three times, the Cartier Diamond Dagger for his lifetime achievement in crime writing, and the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Novel.
Several of Dick Francis's novels have been adapted for television. "Dead Cert" was made into a feature film, and a number of his other works, including "The Racing Game" series, were adapted for British television.
Yes. Dick Francis received the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger in 1989 for his outstanding lifetime contribution to crime writing, and in 1996 the Mystery Writers of America named him a Grand Master for lifetime achievement.