Another Eddie Malloy mystery (see Warned Off and Hunted), Blood Ties finds Eddie in deep trouble with the stud business he has invested every penny in.
Eddie is a partner with the man who was his mentor as a jockey - Martin Corish. Their best stallion Town Crier plunges suddenly from a fertility rate of 88% to zero. Martin foolishly tries to cover it up without telling Eddie. The first Eddie knows is when he gets a call from a blackmailer.
Eddie, still riding but close to the end of a jump season, sets out to nail the blackmailer and to try to find a cure for the infertile stallion.
Eddie soon discovers that someone very powerful is trying to throw him off the trail. His investigation reveals the whereabouts of his parents who abandoned him as a child. Only they and Eddie know the reason behind the family breakup. Or so they think . . . a feared gossip columnist has discovered their secret, one which Eddie believes will end his career and kill his father.
Murder, suspense and heartbreak lead Eddie toward the inevitable final question . . . will he survive?
Another great Eddie Malloy mystery. In fact, I found this the best of the first three Eddie Malloy series. A real page turner as the story moved in unexpected directions leading to a well executed conclusion. I look forward to reading further books in the series.
I arrived in London in 1996 and with some time on my hands, borrowed a novel from the bookshelf in the lounge. The paperback was “Whip Hand” by Dick Francis. Now, I have never been to a horse race, not really interested, but enjoyed the book. I have read every on of Dick’s novels, a also all of his Son’s - Felix. I believe this is the third Eddie Malloy novel, written in a similar style, and in first person, centred around horse racing, with a good plot, and easy to read. Thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend it to others.
A good story let down by a few weird bits ... what was with the tied-to-a-horse-naked bit; and he forgives a "friend" who organises two thugs who hang him over a cliff in two seconds flat!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Though I hesitate to say it having only read a few of his books, I see this as a Dick Francis-type horse-racing thriller - but in my opinion, the knowledge that Richard Pitman has on the equine industry and breeding is more indepth/researched? There is a sound plot, with many a twist and turn, a fair amount of violence plus family drama and some interesting insights on the stereotypical players making up this glamorous yet highly competitive global industry. A worthwhile read.
I loved this, the third book in the Malloy series. even more than the first two. If you are a fan of Dick Francis you will probably enjoy this series as well. This one gave a little more information on Malloy's early years and that added an additional layer to the story.