What do you think?
Sid Halley #8
The Chase: A Dick Francis Novel
When an art dealer’s misfortunes start to look premeditated, Sid Halley is back to investigate in the next Dick Francis novel—perfect for fans of Harlan Coben.
Forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley is only trying to run his own art gallery in London’s Mayfair in peace. But someone seems determined to ruin his life. Accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings painting, he is unable to prove his innocence because the police are holding the piece as evidence. While running a retail sale at Cheltenham Racecourse, some of his other paintings are vandalised. Then, a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
To make matters even worse, his clients are being threatened to stay away from his gallery, and his landlords are trying to cancel his lease. Everything is against him, but with someone threatening his life’s work, Fabian is determined to fight back.
With the help of Sid Halley, saving his business will prove to be the fight of his life.
Forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley is only trying to run his own art gallery in London’s Mayfair in peace. But someone seems determined to ruin his life. Accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings painting, he is unable to prove his innocence because the police are holding the piece as evidence. While running a retail sale at Cheltenham Racecourse, some of his other paintings are vandalised. Then, a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
To make matters even worse, his clients are being threatened to stay away from his gallery, and his landlords are trying to cancel his lease. Everything is against him, but with someone threatening his life’s work, Fabian is determined to fight back.
With the help of Sid Halley, saving his business will prove to be the fight of his life.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Felix Francis
46 books566 followersFor over forty years, the London University grad helped father Dick Francis (31 Oct 1920 – 14 Feb 2010), ex-jockey known for horse-racing mysteries. In 2007, after 17 years teaching physics, he took on the job full-time. Experience also as international marksman aided research for Shattered, Under Orders, and Twice Shy. Co-author of NY Times bestsellers Dead Heat, Silks, Even Money and Crossfire.
Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/felixfrancisw...
http://www.facebook.com/felixfrancisw...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 2, 2026
As a lifelong Dick Francis fan who has read all of his books, I'd always avoided the novels written by his son. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, I finally decided to give The Chase a try.
The good news is that Felix Francis captures much of his father's straightforward, engaging writing style. The protagonist also feels very much in the mould of a classic Dick Francis hero: capable, determined, and willing to put himself at risk to uncover the truth.
What didn't work for me was the amount of time spent on the hero's romantic relationship.
I also struggled with the central revenge plot. While the villain undoubtedly deserved justice, the hero's decision to pursue revenge without solid proof and through methods that were not entirely legal felt uncomfortable. One of the things I've always admired about Dick Francis's protagonists is that, however flawed they may be, they generally operate within a strong moral framework. I find it hard to believe that one of his heroes would knowingly engage in criminal actions that could potentially harm innocent people or horses(?) in the process.
The audiobook narration was another disappointment. The narrator's voice sounded oddly muffled, almost as if he had a ball of cotton in his mouth. Having spent years listening to Tony Britton's excellent narrations of Dick Francis novels, the difference was impossible to ignore.
Overall, The Chase succeeds in recreating some of the atmosphere and style of a Dick Francis thriller, but the excessive focus on the romance, the questionable revenge storyline, and the narration prevented me from enjoying it as much as I had hoped. It hasn't discouraged me from trying more Felix Francis books, but it certainly didn't convince me that he has fully inherited his father's gift for creating believable heroes.
This is a review of the audiobook.
The good news is that Felix Francis captures much of his father's straightforward, engaging writing style. The protagonist also feels very much in the mould of a classic Dick Francis hero: capable, determined, and willing to put himself at risk to uncover the truth.
What didn't work for me was the amount of time spent on the hero's romantic relationship.
I also struggled with the central revenge plot. While the villain undoubtedly deserved justice, the hero's decision to pursue revenge without solid proof and through methods that were not entirely legal felt uncomfortable. One of the things I've always admired about Dick Francis's protagonists is that, however flawed they may be, they generally operate within a strong moral framework. I find it hard to believe that one of his heroes would knowingly engage in criminal actions that could potentially harm innocent people or horses(?) in the process.
The audiobook narration was another disappointment. The narrator's voice sounded oddly muffled, almost as if he had a ball of cotton in his mouth. Having spent years listening to Tony Britton's excellent narrations of Dick Francis novels, the difference was impossible to ignore.
Overall, The Chase succeeds in recreating some of the atmosphere and style of a Dick Francis thriller, but the excessive focus on the romance, the questionable revenge storyline, and the narration prevented me from enjoying it as much as I had hoped. It hasn't discouraged me from trying more Felix Francis books, but it certainly didn't convince me that he has fully inherited his father's gift for creating believable heroes.
This is a review of the audiobook.
Read
September 15, 2026Mayfair art gallery owner Fabian Tulley is in a spot of bother. One of his customers has made a complaint of fraud to the police, alleging that Tulley had sold him a fake Munnings picture (Alfred Munnings was a well known painter of horses). When word of this spreads, mainly via the troublesome customer bad mouthing him at every opportunity, his business is facing destruction. The police have confiscated the picture so he has no way of forensically proving its authenticity. However his problems don’t just end with money problems from a collapsing business but he finds himself in danger too,
There is a lot to like here for fans of racing and art, as Tulley takes his art to sell at the major races in the hope of persuading wealthy punters to part with their money – he needs to take every opportunity to keep his business solvent whilst also hoping to find out more about the allegations about him. There is also mystery and suspense as Tulley decides that he won’t go down without a fight, certainly not without clearing his name and decides to take action head on with small acts of revenge and sabotage. A touch of romance and betrayal add to the mix to form an engaging and suspenseful story.
Francis writes in a very easy to read and descriptive way. He frequently throws in pieces of factual information, which have some relevance to the story.
The Chase is an enjoyable read that not only touches on the complexities of family relationships but also those who use power and wealth as a weapon
There is a lot to like here for fans of racing and art, as Tulley takes his art to sell at the major races in the hope of persuading wealthy punters to part with their money – he needs to take every opportunity to keep his business solvent whilst also hoping to find out more about the allegations about him. There is also mystery and suspense as Tulley decides that he won’t go down without a fight, certainly not without clearing his name and decides to take action head on with small acts of revenge and sabotage. A touch of romance and betrayal add to the mix to form an engaging and suspenseful story.
Francis writes in a very easy to read and descriptive way. He frequently throws in pieces of factual information, which have some relevance to the story.
The Chase is an enjoyable read that not only touches on the complexities of family relationships but also those who use power and wealth as a weapon
October 1, 2026
Not the story I expected! Not a horse racing story as a main plot, but it was suspenseful and intriguing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was a fan of legendary steeplechase jockey turned horse racing focused author Dick Francis for many, many years, and since his death, I’ve continued that enthusiasm for books written by his son Felix. This one, I’m happy to say, continues that tradition of excellence in fine fettle – another good one in the books, so to speak.
One thing, however, left me wondering if I’d missed something. The description on Goodreads, where I always post my reviews, says the book features investigator Sid Halley (e.g., “Sid Halley is back to investigate”) – a familiar character. But for the life of me, I don’t recall ever even reading his name on any of the pages here. Oh well, no matter. If I somehow skipped over those mentions, so be it – honestly, in the end I didn’t miss him a whit.
The story finds Westminster art gallery owner Fabian Tulley in a bit of a bind; he’s just sold a painting by Alfred Munnings, and now the police are at his door because he’s been accused of fraud; the buyer, it seems, claims the painting is a copy and insists Fabian was well aware of it. Problem is, Fabian is certain he sold an original, authentic work – but especially since the police have confiscated the painting, how on earth will he prove its provenance? And if he doesn’t, it’s likely his entire business – already in a somewhat difficult financial state – would cease to exist (in fact, several seem to have already flown the customer coop).
As if that weren’t enough, Fabian’s landlord has issued him an eviction notice, claiming he now needs the building for a different type of development. To help with that, Fabian “hires” a retired barrister who agrees to a big discount on a painting he wants in exchange for helping Fabian get to the truth behind his lease (not knowing, of course, exactly where that will lead).
The buyer of the suspected fake Munning is billionaire Jack Lofthouse from Yorkshire, who subsequently filed a lawsuit against Tulley. But the question is, why would he want to discredit Fabian? Getting to the truth requires Fabian and a couple of friends to venture to (surprise!) the racetrack at Cheltenham, where he’s also a frequent vendor. There, he encounters even more serious attacks – one that ends with the ruin of several of the paintings he was displaying for sale there, thus adding to his financial woes and hopes for the future.
Needless to say, either the fraud or the eviction could cost Fabian his livelihood at the very least – so he’s eager to get both issues resolved. The eviction is mostly up to his attorney, but unless he gets to the bottom of the fraud accusation and puts it to rest, he won’t be able to afford his lease anyway, making that issue moot. So off he goes to get to the bottom of things, with a little help from some friends and employees. Details, of course, I cannot reveal, but suffice it to say it’s nonstop action right up to the end (which I also won’t reveal). Getting there, though, is exciting and fun, and I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for letting me in on the adventure by way of a pre-release copy. Another one well done!
One thing, however, left me wondering if I’d missed something. The description on Goodreads, where I always post my reviews, says the book features investigator Sid Halley (e.g., “Sid Halley is back to investigate”) – a familiar character. But for the life of me, I don’t recall ever even reading his name on any of the pages here. Oh well, no matter. If I somehow skipped over those mentions, so be it – honestly, in the end I didn’t miss him a whit.
The story finds Westminster art gallery owner Fabian Tulley in a bit of a bind; he’s just sold a painting by Alfred Munnings, and now the police are at his door because he’s been accused of fraud; the buyer, it seems, claims the painting is a copy and insists Fabian was well aware of it. Problem is, Fabian is certain he sold an original, authentic work – but especially since the police have confiscated the painting, how on earth will he prove its provenance? And if he doesn’t, it’s likely his entire business – already in a somewhat difficult financial state – would cease to exist (in fact, several seem to have already flown the customer coop).
As if that weren’t enough, Fabian’s landlord has issued him an eviction notice, claiming he now needs the building for a different type of development. To help with that, Fabian “hires” a retired barrister who agrees to a big discount on a painting he wants in exchange for helping Fabian get to the truth behind his lease (not knowing, of course, exactly where that will lead).
The buyer of the suspected fake Munning is billionaire Jack Lofthouse from Yorkshire, who subsequently filed a lawsuit against Tulley. But the question is, why would he want to discredit Fabian? Getting to the truth requires Fabian and a couple of friends to venture to (surprise!) the racetrack at Cheltenham, where he’s also a frequent vendor. There, he encounters even more serious attacks – one that ends with the ruin of several of the paintings he was displaying for sale there, thus adding to his financial woes and hopes for the future.
Needless to say, either the fraud or the eviction could cost Fabian his livelihood at the very least – so he’s eager to get both issues resolved. The eviction is mostly up to his attorney, but unless he gets to the bottom of the fraud accusation and puts it to rest, he won’t be able to afford his lease anyway, making that issue moot. So off he goes to get to the bottom of things, with a little help from some friends and employees. Details, of course, I cannot reveal, but suffice it to say it’s nonstop action right up to the end (which I also won’t reveal). Getting there, though, is exciting and fun, and I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for letting me in on the adventure by way of a pre-release copy. Another one well done!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley is only trying to run his own art gallery in London’s Mayfair in peace. But someone seems determined to ruin his life. Accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings painting, he is unable to prove his innocence because the police are holding the piece as evidence. While running a retail sale at Cheltenham Racecourse, some of his other paintings are vandalised. Then, a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot. To make matters even worse, his clients are being threatened to stay away from his gallery, and his landlords are trying to cancel his lease. Everything is against him, but with someone threatening his life’s work, Fabian is determined to fight back.
I’ve loved the Francis’ books & have read them all, I loved it when Felix took up the reins from his father Dick & I look forward to the yearly addition. Once again I was drawn in from the start but this year I was also lucky enough to get the audiobook too & it was narrated by the brilliant Martin Jarvis, so I’ve never known housework pass so quickly listening to Martin’s dulcet tones & then to curl up with the ebook & the voices stayed with me. I really liked Fabian who was being targeted but the true reason didn’t become apparent until the end. There were red herrings as well as twists & turns before everything was revealed, I loved how Fabian thanked Stephen for his help, there’s also some romance with Vanessa & I loved how she helped. A well written riveting book which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
I’ve loved the Francis’ books & have read them all, I loved it when Felix took up the reins from his father Dick & I look forward to the yearly addition. Once again I was drawn in from the start but this year I was also lucky enough to get the audiobook too & it was narrated by the brilliant Martin Jarvis, so I’ve never known housework pass so quickly listening to Martin’s dulcet tones & then to curl up with the ebook & the voices stayed with me. I really liked Fabian who was being targeted but the true reason didn’t become apparent until the end. There were red herrings as well as twists & turns before everything was revealed, I loved how Fabian thanked Stephen for his help, there’s also some romance with Vanessa & I loved how she helped. A well written riveting book which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
October 1, 2026
Another engrossing page turner from Felix. This is my 4th, so that speaks volumes.
Almost 50 years old Fabian Tulley. Divorced many years ago. Contentedly living alone and surviving on microwave dinners. Selling artwork from his own gallery to earn a modest living, and fairly content with his life.
That is until one of his customers accuses him of knowingly selling him a fake painting and threatens to sue him for a crazy sum and ruin his reputation. Fabian’s life, his business and everything he has worked for is suddenly at risk. And if that’s not bad enough, his landlord has given him notice that his lease on his gallery is being broken.
Realising he is dealing with a bully, he refuses to lie back and take it. What follows is a battle of wits as Fabian even dodges murder. More than once.
Told from Fabian’s point of view, he came across as a true gentleman, only just coping with this crazy turn of events in his comfortable life but getting more and more determined to win as the story progressed.
There is a fair bit of references to horse racing as most of his artwork includes horses, and much of the action takes place at various race courses, as do all of his books as he follows in the footsteps of his father, Dick.
There’s a bit of positivity for him in the form of Vanessa, who once ran a florist in the same building. He would have struggled without her although she comes across as rather needy and clingy, prepared to do anything for him.
Overall a great read. Good pacing and I couldn’t put it down. Couldn’t wait to see how it all turned out and I was very happy indeed with the ending. Jam packed with plenty of horse racing and art world facts too.
Almost 50 years old Fabian Tulley. Divorced many years ago. Contentedly living alone and surviving on microwave dinners. Selling artwork from his own gallery to earn a modest living, and fairly content with his life.
That is until one of his customers accuses him of knowingly selling him a fake painting and threatens to sue him for a crazy sum and ruin his reputation. Fabian’s life, his business and everything he has worked for is suddenly at risk. And if that’s not bad enough, his landlord has given him notice that his lease on his gallery is being broken.
Realising he is dealing with a bully, he refuses to lie back and take it. What follows is a battle of wits as Fabian even dodges murder. More than once.
Told from Fabian’s point of view, he came across as a true gentleman, only just coping with this crazy turn of events in his comfortable life but getting more and more determined to win as the story progressed.
There is a fair bit of references to horse racing as most of his artwork includes horses, and much of the action takes place at various race courses, as do all of his books as he follows in the footsteps of his father, Dick.
There’s a bit of positivity for him in the form of Vanessa, who once ran a florist in the same building. He would have struggled without her although she comes across as rather needy and clingy, prepared to do anything for him.
Overall a great read. Good pacing and I couldn’t put it down. Couldn’t wait to see how it all turned out and I was very happy indeed with the ending. Jam packed with plenty of horse racing and art world facts too.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Fabian Tulley is an art dealer who specializes in pictures of horses. When he is accused of selling a forgery of an Alfred Munning painting, he needs to prove it is not a fake to clear his reputation. But being accused of selling forgeries is just the beginning of Fabian's problems.
Jack Lofthouse, the man who bought the painting he is now claiming is a fake, is a bully determined to ruin Fabian. The reason isn't at all clear as to why he has set this as a goal. But he is very persistent. He arranges for Fabian's display of art at a horse racing event to be vandalized. He arranges not one but two different attempts at killing Fabian by use of a motor vehicle and he sets men to attack Fabian.
And while all this is going on, his landlords have given him notice to vacate his business address so that the site can be redeveloped. They are offering a pittance which isn't enough for Fabian to pay his workers or relocate his business. And to make things worse, someone has hijacked his email customer list and sent a message telling everyone to avoid his gallery or else.
As Fabian tries to unravel what is going on he does have some allies. A client who happens to be a retired lawyer wants to look over his lease and an old friend and potential new girlfriend provides shelter and other assistance.
This is a throwback to an old Dick Francis style story. An ordinary man through intelligence, stubbornness and decency manages to figure things out and triumph over evil. It was a very enjoyable story.
Jack Lofthouse, the man who bought the painting he is now claiming is a fake, is a bully determined to ruin Fabian. The reason isn't at all clear as to why he has set this as a goal. But he is very persistent. He arranges for Fabian's display of art at a horse racing event to be vandalized. He arranges not one but two different attempts at killing Fabian by use of a motor vehicle and he sets men to attack Fabian.
And while all this is going on, his landlords have given him notice to vacate his business address so that the site can be redeveloped. They are offering a pittance which isn't enough for Fabian to pay his workers or relocate his business. And to make things worse, someone has hijacked his email customer list and sent a message telling everyone to avoid his gallery or else.
As Fabian tries to unravel what is going on he does have some allies. A client who happens to be a retired lawyer wants to look over his lease and an old friend and potential new girlfriend provides shelter and other assistance.
This is a throwback to an old Dick Francis style story. An ordinary man through intelligence, stubbornness and decency manages to figure things out and triumph over evil. It was a very enjoyable story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gratitude to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
Returning to the world of Dick Francis after many years felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
The last Francis novel I read was back when Felix Francis was still co-authoring with his father, so I was curious to see how he had developed as a writer. I needn't have worried. “The Chase” proves that he has established himself as an accomplished author in his own right while preserving everything that made the original novels so enjoyable.
The book follows the classic Dick Francis formula and I mean that as the highest compliment. An ordinary protagonist suddenly finds himself caught in life-changing circumstances, facing a ruthless adversary, while the reader is treated to a fascinating, meticulously researched glimpse into a specialized world. This time it is fine art, intertwined with both painted and living thoroughbreds, making for a compelling blend of mystery, suspense, and horse racing.
Like the best books in the series, “The Chase” is engaging, expertly paced, and filled with the kind of authentic detail that makes the story feel completely believable without ever slowing it down. I came away not only delighted to have revisited a literary world I had missed, but also pleasantly surprised to discover that I have a considerable number of Felix Francis novels waiting to be read.
Highly recommended.
Returning to the world of Dick Francis after many years felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
The last Francis novel I read was back when Felix Francis was still co-authoring with his father, so I was curious to see how he had developed as a writer. I needn't have worried. “The Chase” proves that he has established himself as an accomplished author in his own right while preserving everything that made the original novels so enjoyable.
The book follows the classic Dick Francis formula and I mean that as the highest compliment. An ordinary protagonist suddenly finds himself caught in life-changing circumstances, facing a ruthless adversary, while the reader is treated to a fascinating, meticulously researched glimpse into a specialized world. This time it is fine art, intertwined with both painted and living thoroughbreds, making for a compelling blend of mystery, suspense, and horse racing.
Like the best books in the series, “The Chase” is engaging, expertly paced, and filled with the kind of authentic detail that makes the story feel completely believable without ever slowing it down. I came away not only delighted to have revisited a literary world I had missed, but also pleasantly surprised to discover that I have a considerable number of Felix Francis novels waiting to be read.
Highly recommended.
September 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia Audio (Recorded Books Audio) for providing me with an advanced audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Even though The Chase is the eighth book in the Sid Halley series, this was my first time reading a Sid Halley novel. The good news is that I was able to follow the story without feeling lost, despite jumping into the series so late.
Unfortunately, Sid himself never really clicked with me as a character. I appreciated his experience and knowledge, but I struggled to become invested in him or his investigation.
The bigger issue for me was the balance of the story. There was a great deal of background information about horses, racing, and art, and while fans of those subjects may enjoy the detail, I found myself wanting more focus on the mystery. The investigation often felt like it took a back seat to the extensive discussions of the racing world, which slowed the pacing for me.
I went into this expecting more suspense and thrills, but the book leans much more toward a traditional mystery. While the mystery itself was solid, I never felt the level of tension that I typically look for in a thriller.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it wasn't quite the right fit for my tastes. Readers who enjoy horse racing, art, and classic mystery novels will likely get more out of it than I did.
Even though The Chase is the eighth book in the Sid Halley series, this was my first time reading a Sid Halley novel. The good news is that I was able to follow the story without feeling lost, despite jumping into the series so late.
Unfortunately, Sid himself never really clicked with me as a character. I appreciated his experience and knowledge, but I struggled to become invested in him or his investigation.
The bigger issue for me was the balance of the story. There was a great deal of background information about horses, racing, and art, and while fans of those subjects may enjoy the detail, I found myself wanting more focus on the mystery. The investigation often felt like it took a back seat to the extensive discussions of the racing world, which slowed the pacing for me.
I went into this expecting more suspense and thrills, but the book leans much more toward a traditional mystery. While the mystery itself was solid, I never felt the level of tension that I typically look for in a thriller.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it wasn't quite the right fit for my tastes. Readers who enjoy horse racing, art, and classic mystery novels will likely get more out of it than I did.
September 12, 2026
The book is marketed as another Sid Halley novel, however, he doesn't appear anywhere in the book! Despite that, this was another enjoyable read from Felix Francis.
Fabian Tulley owns an art gallery in London, specializing in horse racing paintings. When a previous buyer accuses Fabian of selling him a fake, Fabian is left struggling to prove his innocence, while the police are still holding the painting itself. When nasty things start happening, such as the paintings at his booth at the Cheltenham racecourse being vandalized, and his near miss in a hit and run, along with 2 men attempting to assault him, Fabian suspects the aggrieved buyer, Jack Lofthouse, of being behind the events.
On top of this, Fabian's landlord has given him notice to vacate his gallery and is offering a pittance in compensation. Fabian will lose his business if he can't restore his reputation and fix his landlord issue.
Fabian has help from a new girlfriend, and a client who is a retired lawyer. The investigation was interesting, with a few twists and turns, and Fabian was very resourceful in trying to get to the bottom of the situation. The story was reasonably paced and I was interested in the outcome.
I enjoyed the characters, and the way the plot unfolded.
Fabian Tulley owns an art gallery in London, specializing in horse racing paintings. When a previous buyer accuses Fabian of selling him a fake, Fabian is left struggling to prove his innocence, while the police are still holding the painting itself. When nasty things start happening, such as the paintings at his booth at the Cheltenham racecourse being vandalized, and his near miss in a hit and run, along with 2 men attempting to assault him, Fabian suspects the aggrieved buyer, Jack Lofthouse, of being behind the events.
On top of this, Fabian's landlord has given him notice to vacate his gallery and is offering a pittance in compensation. Fabian will lose his business if he can't restore his reputation and fix his landlord issue.
Fabian has help from a new girlfriend, and a client who is a retired lawyer. The investigation was interesting, with a few twists and turns, and Fabian was very resourceful in trying to get to the bottom of the situation. The story was reasonably paced and I was interested in the outcome.
I enjoyed the characters, and the way the plot unfolded.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: The Chase: A Dick Francis Novel
Author: Felix Francis
Format: 🎧
Audiobook Narrator: Martin Jarvis
Publisher: RB Media
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: September 8, 2026
My Rating: 3.2 Stars
Pages: 298
The story starts when forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley a Westminster art gallery owner is accused of fraud. The police have a fake Alfred Munnings painting, that billionaire Jack Lofthouse from Yorkshire states was sold to him by Fabian Tulley.
Fabian knows he sold the original. He doesn’t understand why Lofthouse wants to discredit him.
Additionally other paintings were vandalized at the Cheltenham Racecourse retail store where he had several paining on display for sale.
Later a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
About the Author Feliz Francis ~ He is a London University grad who helped his father Dick Francis an ex-jockey known for legendary steeplechase jockey horse-racing mysteries. In 2007, Feliz, after 17 years teaching physics, took on writing full-time.
I want to thank NetGalley and RB Media for this audiobook.
Publishing Date September 8, 2026.
Author: Felix Francis
Format: 🎧
Audiobook Narrator: Martin Jarvis
Publisher: RB Media
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: September 8, 2026
My Rating: 3.2 Stars
Pages: 298
The story starts when forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley a Westminster art gallery owner is accused of fraud. The police have a fake Alfred Munnings painting, that billionaire Jack Lofthouse from Yorkshire states was sold to him by Fabian Tulley.
Fabian knows he sold the original. He doesn’t understand why Lofthouse wants to discredit him.
Additionally other paintings were vandalized at the Cheltenham Racecourse retail store where he had several paining on display for sale.
Later a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
About the Author Feliz Francis ~ He is a London University grad who helped his father Dick Francis an ex-jockey known for legendary steeplechase jockey horse-racing mysteries. In 2007, Feliz, after 17 years teaching physics, took on writing full-time.
I want to thank NetGalley and RB Media for this audiobook.
Publishing Date September 8, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Description
Forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley is only trying to run his own art gallery in London’s Mayfair in peace. But someone seems determined to ruin his life. Accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings painting, he is unable to prove his innocence because the police are holding the piece as evidence. While running a retail sale at Cheltenham Racecourse, some of his other paintings are vandalized. Then a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
I really enjoyed The Chase! It is a mystery with lots of twists, suspense, and that behind-the-scenes horse racing setting. The story kept me gusessing, and I liked how the tension built as everything slowly came together.
The characters were interesting, the plot kept moving, and there were plenty of surprises to keep me turning the pages. It’s a solid mystery if you’re into horse racing, crime, and a good bit of suspense. Definitely a fun read!
Martin Jarvis provided a good audible performance.
Thank you Netgalley and RBmedia for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. #Netgalley #RBmedia #TheChase
This is a review of the audiobook.
Forty-nine-year-old Fabian Tulley is only trying to run his own art gallery in London’s Mayfair in peace. But someone seems determined to ruin his life. Accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings painting, he is unable to prove his innocence because the police are holding the piece as evidence. While running a retail sale at Cheltenham Racecourse, some of his other paintings are vandalized. Then a couple of men try to run him down in the racecourse parking lot.
I really enjoyed The Chase! It is a mystery with lots of twists, suspense, and that behind-the-scenes horse racing setting. The story kept me gusessing, and I liked how the tension built as everything slowly came together.
The characters were interesting, the plot kept moving, and there were plenty of surprises to keep me turning the pages. It’s a solid mystery if you’re into horse racing, crime, and a good bit of suspense. Definitely a fun read!
Martin Jarvis provided a good audible performance.
Thank you Netgalley and RBmedia for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. #Netgalley #RBmedia #TheChase
This is a review of the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
This was a perfectly readable mystery in the Francis mold: likable main character who has had some bad luck, incredibly evil bad guy, a reluctance to involve law enforcement and some romance.
Art dealer Fabian Tulley has carved out a pretty good life when things go wildly off track. A moneyed thug accuses him quite publicly of selling a forged artwork. Vandalism and physical attacks, as well as a hacked email warning off all Fabian's clients, soon have a devastating efffect.
As if that weren't enough, his landlord is planning on redeveloping and is offering a meager settlement in exchange for terminating the lease. Fabian can't prove who is causing his problems but there is no doubt in his mind.
Lots of action, some satisfying revenge, and romance move the plot along. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a perfectly readable mystery in the Francis mold: likable main character who has had some bad luck, incredibly evil bad guy, a reluctance to involve law enforcement and some romance.
Art dealer Fabian Tulley has carved out a pretty good life when things go wildly off track. A moneyed thug accuses him quite publicly of selling a forged artwork. Vandalism and physical attacks, as well as a hacked email warning off all Fabian's clients, soon have a devastating efffect.
As if that weren't enough, his landlord is planning on redeveloping and is offering a meager settlement in exchange for terminating the lease. Fabian can't prove who is causing his problems but there is no doubt in his mind.
Lots of action, some satisfying revenge, and romance move the plot along. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m a big fan of the Dick Francis and Felix Francis novels so I was excited to read The Chase. It was fast-paced and immediately hooked me in and kept my interest the whole way through the book. Fabian is a fine art dealer of sporting and equestrian paintings, mainly,horse racing. Someone has got it in for him and is trying to destroy his business. Can Fabian find out who is behind it all before he is forced to close the gallery doors for good? A good mix of detective and mystery, plus some horse racing. I really enjoyed it the flow was good, there were some twists and turns and the storyline was interesting. Highly recommend, cracking read!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Publication date 8 September 2026.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Publication date 8 September 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really got my nose stuck in this book, and whenever I had to put it down, all I could think of was getting back to it! One of my favourite shows is Fake or Fortune with Philip Mould, where he examines the provenance of artworks to determine if it is a fake or worth a fortune. This Felix Francis novel centres on Fabian Tulley, the owner of an art gallery who is accused of selling a fake Alfred Munnings racing painting to an ill-tempered millionaire. It then gets worse as Fabian's business is attacked and then - as with all good Dick Francis / Felix Francis books - the main character is attacked as well. I really liked the characters in this book, and there are some good twists along the way. Loved it!
With thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the e-arc.
With thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the e-arc.
September 22, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC!
I've been a huge Dick Francis fan for many years, so I was delighted when his son Felix decided to pick up the mantle. The Chase is another excellent outing — Felix has become such a dependable, reliable writer.
This is one of those novels where racing isn't front and center, but sits on the sidelines while the protagonist works in a different world — art and paintings, this time. It reminded me of Dick Francis classics like Proof and Shattered, where racing weaves in from the side rather than driving the plot.
My only gripe: this was marketed as a Sid Halley novel, which raised my expectations since I love Halley — but he's nowhere to be found here! 😅
Still, a very satisfying read that I devoured in just 2 days!
I've been a huge Dick Francis fan for many years, so I was delighted when his son Felix decided to pick up the mantle. The Chase is another excellent outing — Felix has become such a dependable, reliable writer.
This is one of those novels where racing isn't front and center, but sits on the sidelines while the protagonist works in a different world — art and paintings, this time. It reminded me of Dick Francis classics like Proof and Shattered, where racing weaves in from the side rather than driving the plot.
My only gripe: this was marketed as a Sid Halley novel, which raised my expectations since I love Halley — but he's nowhere to be found here! 😅
Still, a very satisfying read that I devoured in just 2 days!
September 23, 2026
Fantastic story that feels so real inside the horse racing and art sales world that I couldn't stop reading. Fabian is an ordinary character whose life is turned upside down by big business decisions about selling his company, escalating threats against his life, and the return of an old flame in Vanessa, with the two of them getting into some trouble.
I didn't need to know a lot about horse racing or art, which is a strength of the story, to be right there with Fabian through everything he's going through and it feels personal. The story is fairly fast-paced, with just enough art and horse racing detail to keep it feeling authentic.
The love interest in Vanessa was a nice light in very dark times.
I didn't need to know a lot about horse racing or art, which is a strength of the story, to be right there with Fabian through everything he's going through and it feels personal. The story is fairly fast-paced, with just enough art and horse racing detail to keep it feeling authentic.
The love interest in Vanessa was a nice light in very dark times.
September 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this one. Felix Francis continues to build on the legacy of Dick Francis with a story that has all the ingredients fans of the series love, while still bringing his own style to the page. The mix of racing, art and mystery made for an interesting read, and Fabian was a character I was happy to follow as the trouble around him unfolded. The story kept a good pace, with enough twists to keep me guessing. A very enjoyable thriller and a great addition to the Francis name.
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing this advanced copy
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing this advanced copy
September 29, 2026
I love both Felix Francis and Dick Francis and I have enjoyed all of those I have read so far. This is another good story which I raced through in less than twenty four hours.
But it just doesn't feel fresh in the twenty first century. Something about the main character is off and a bit pervy in the way he thinks of his girlfriend. The use of the term sidewalk instead of pavement. Just lots of niggles that doesn't sit right with me which is why I marked it down to three stars. What was acceptable forty years ago isn't now.
But it just doesn't feel fresh in the twenty first century. Something about the main character is off and a bit pervy in the way he thinks of his girlfriend. The use of the term sidewalk instead of pavement. Just lots of niggles that doesn't sit right with me which is why I marked it down to three stars. What was acceptable forty years ago isn't now.
September 15, 2026
Another Runaway Winner
Mr Francis has continued in his father’s tradition of providing a fascinating tale that draws the reader in so deeply, that you have to read it as quickly as you can!
I was so invested in the protagonist and his issues I read straight through, ( only slowing to refresh my tea!)
I’m now completely depressed, realizing I have to await the publication of the next Francis novel …
Mr Francis has continued in his father’s tradition of providing a fascinating tale that draws the reader in so deeply, that you have to read it as quickly as you can!
I was so invested in the protagonist and his issues I read straight through, ( only slowing to refresh my tea!)
I’m now completely depressed, realizing I have to await the publication of the next Francis novel …
September 10, 2026
I listened to the audiobook I received from NetGalley of The Chase by Dick Francis Narrated by Martin Jarvis. I love art and horse racing and I enjoyed this easy listen. It felt pretty old school, the plot reminded me of Matlock or Murder She Wrote and the narrator matched the vibe. It was easy to follow but I don’t feel compelled to read anything else from the series right now.
September 14, 2026
Dick Francis revived (that’s good)
No detecting here. It’s easy to sort the good guys and the bad guys. In the Dick Francis mode, the hero gets battered. The “I’ve got nothing to lose” bit from the villain would have been more effective earlier in the book, but that’s a nitpick. Can’t wait for the next one!
No detecting here. It’s easy to sort the good guys and the bad guys. In the Dick Francis mode, the hero gets battered. The “I’ve got nothing to lose” bit from the villain would have been more effective earlier in the book, but that’s a nitpick. Can’t wait for the next one!
September 24, 2026
Even though it took me a couple of chapters to get into this book, it is another fun read by this author and has some great twists and turns. Dealing in the art world was unexpected for me, but it is well written, with good characters and an interesting mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed another of FF's books.
September 24, 2026
First thank you to NetGalley and the wonderful publishers for the advanced audio version of this book. I truly enjoyed the unique concept of an art dealer mixed with the horse racing industry. It was suspenseful and well written. I would recommend this book
October 4, 2026
NOT A SID HALLEY.
Not sure why this is being marketed as the new Sid Halley installment. Sid isnt even mentioned in the book. Disappointing as I have read all the others & was looking forward to another. I spent the whole time waiting for Sid to become involved.
The book is good. Very readable.
Not sure why this is being marketed as the new Sid Halley installment. Sid isnt even mentioned in the book. Disappointing as I have read all the others & was looking forward to another. I spent the whole time waiting for Sid to become involved.
The book is good. Very readable.
September 13, 2026
Have always enjoyed Dick Francis, and now Felix Francis novels. Always fast paced, fun, quick reads. This is the new hardback.
This is a solid 3.5. Looking forward to the next one.
This is a solid 3.5. Looking forward to the next one.
September 15, 2026
Exiting!
Probably his best book yet that keeps the reader worried for the lead character and wondering what will happen to.him next.
Probably his best book yet that keeps the reader worried for the lead character and wondering what will happen to.him next.
Want to Read
September 23, 2026SM
September 30, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyable reading! With this book, Felix has come very close to matching his father's great writing talent.
October 5, 2026
Success for Felix
Great story line, Felix has moved into the top ranks with this new book. I would recommend this novel to all racing fans.
Great story line, Felix has moved into the top ranks with this new book. I would recommend this novel to all racing fans.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews