Edgar Award Best Novel Winner

Forfeit

by Dick Francis

Summary

Racing journalist James Tyrone digs into corruption surrounding a major horse race while caring for a wife paralyzed by polio and living in an iron lung. Dick Francis, a former champion jockey, fills the story with insider knowledge of the racing world and pairs the suspense with a moving personal life for his reporter hero. The novel is a strong example of the racing thrillers that made Francis one of the best selling crime writers of his time.

Historical Context & Significance

Dick Francis, who had been a champion steeplechase jockey and rode for the Queen Mother, won his first Edgar Award for Best Novel with this book.