What does a busy trial lawyer from the prestigious law firm of Devlin & Knight do for relaxation and enjoyment? Go to Boston's Suffolk Downs to watch his two cousins, who are jockeys, race.

Michael Knight is at the rail waiting for the start of the 8th race that features the Mendosa brothers; Roberto astride the favorite, Dante's Pride, while his brother Victor, is positioned in the next gate mounted on Summer Breeze. Michael has known the boys, as brothers, since they were teens and his family brought the boys from Puerto Rico to escape the vicious gangs active there. Watching the race, eyes glued to the brothers, he was stunned when Victor's horse shied and veered into the path of Dante's Pride. The horse's legs crumbled, Roberto was thrown off, injured and later died at Mass General Hospital. The District Attorney wants charges of felony murder against Victor. He runs and disappears. Devlin & Knight will represent Victor. The legendary trial attorneys will have a tough task proving the innocence of their client but first things first. First, they have to find him.

Investigation quickly leads Michael to discover the race was fixed and the reasons for it goes beyond his wildest expectations. He is quickly in the crossfire from organized crime, the Boston Maffia and two rival, brutal gangs, the NYETAS and the INSECTOS. These gangs, formed in prison in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, are violent and all have Michael in their sights to kill. What illicit deal is attracting the attention of these killers? What promises more money that everyone involved has dreamed of. Can Michael stop them and free Victor?

We are taken to a village deep in the Amazon rainforest and introduced to two of the villagers. Ancarit and his grandfather, Ancuro. They live a quiet and peaceful life caring for the animals there. One day a ship sails into their remote tributary and grandfather is fearful. First, the sailors are friendly but soon they order the capture of rare primates and exotic birds to be placed aboard the ship. At gunpoint, grandfather loads the animals, is taken aboard as they sail away, This is the sub-plot, giving an explanation of how the unlawful trade of rare wild animals bring estimated billions of dollars.

John F. Dobbyn has the best storytelling flair I have read in ages. You will admire some of his characters, hate some others, as you turn those pages faster and faster. Michael is a sterling character, with a keen sense of humor, especially when he has conversations with himself. His sweet romance with Terry added a special touch and added a sparkle to the non-stop action. I enjoy the relationship between Michael and his mentor/partner, Devlin. What a sting! What a climax! FATAL ODDS has it all. It is an exciting read. I loved it!