Harry Radcliffe is a British champion jockey, with steeplechasing rides to choose from and glamour on the racecourse. However, at this point in the ‘Harry Radcliffe’ series, the events of the previous four books have become known to many and he has acquired a reputation as a detective. Driving back from an event one day, Harry’s friend Keith Whellan is shot and he ends up in hospital. Harry, the passenger, is DEAD LUCKY not to have been killed.

What I love about these books is the amount of time we spend on the racetrack, galloping on willing horses. Questions are asked of grooms, trainers, owners, vets, cleaners, touts. Just about everyone is clean, because racing is strictly controlled and provides a livelihood for the many horse lovers we meet. But betting, of course, has a way of corrupting those who get into debt.

Harry tries to be loyal to his friends but wants to stay out of trouble, because he needs to keep up a punishing schedule of riding work sessions, jockeying one superb horse after another (the riders who are not champion jockey get offered mounts likely to be also-rans) while eating little and feeling obliged to socialise. To make writing easier, perhaps, the author provides an ex-wife who still cares for Harry but doesn’t place demands on his time, and a splendid ginger tomcat, the only other occupant of Harry’s cosy cottage. Several times during this crime story, I had the impression that Harry really needed a partner for backup. Others are scared or injured, so he’s acting on his own as he investigates.

Women are well provided, from moneyed owners only too pleased to escort their racehorse to the winners’ enclosure, to a spiritual healer, and some of the extremely hard working people who keep racing operating. Glenis Wilson appears to be telling it as it is, giving us credible insight to the industry and lifestyles.

DEAD LUCKY is exciting, fun and at times chilling. The dark side of British rural life mingles with darts matches in a pub. Place your money on Harry Radcliffe, and you’re onto a winner.