(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)

Jeff Hinkley, undercover investigator for the British Horseracing Authority, is looking into the shady activities of a racehorse trainer. But as he's tailing his quarry through the Cheltenham Racing Festival, the last thing he expects to witness is a gruesome murder. Could it have something to do with the reason the trainer was banned in the first place - the administration of illegal drugs to his horses?
Days later, it's discovered that many more horses test positive for prohibited stimulants, a scandal that could throw horse-racing into disrepute. It's no surprise when the BHA receives a demand - pay up or face the consequences. In order to limit the damage to the sport, it's critical that Jeff find the perpetrator . . . but he'll soon learn he's up against someone who will stop at nothing to prevail. Jeff's mental and physical well-being is tested t the very limit, as his life is put on the line.

*3.5 stars*

Through the 80's and 90's, I read a LOT of Dick Francis novels. I really couldn't get enough of them, which is interesting as I don't particularly care for horse racing - or horses, in general...anyway, he was a staple in my literary diet and was always excited to find a new one...

...so the question here was always going to be - can Felix step into the role his father left for him? And the answer is not as easy as it should be.

'Damage' is quite a good story - everything you would expect to find from a Dick Francis novel is here: horse racing, doping, investigations, big money...and that is how it should be. The story drags you in pretty quickly and does a pretty decent job of holding your attention throughout. The knowledge of the industry is obvious - and that really does make all the difference.

However, what disappointed me with this book was that is was SO similar to a Dick Francis novel. It didn't feel like Felix was trying to find his own voice but, rather, stick to what his Dad did best and make his name that way. As I have said, it was a pretty good story but I found the lack of a distinct voice kind of underwhelming.


Paul
ARH