Front Runner (Dick Francis Novel)

Jefferson Hinkley is back. Operating as an undercover investigator for the British Horseracing Authority, Jeff is approached by the multiple-champion jockey, Dave Swinton, to discuss the delicate matter of his losing races on purpose. Little does Jeff realise that his visit to Swinton's house will result in a brutal attempt on his life.

Shortly after Jeff narrowly escapes a certain and grisly death, the charred body of Dave Swinton is found in his burnt out car at a deserted beauty spot in Oxfordshire. The police seem to think it's a suicide but Jeff is not so sure. He starts to investigate those races that Swinton could have intentionally lost, but soon discovers instead that there are those who would prevent him from doing so, at any cost.