10 Lb. Penalty

When ambitious politician George Juliard sets his sights on becoming Prime Minister, he strikes a deal with his eighteen-year-old son Benedict: neither will engage in any behavior that could damage George's political aspirations. Benedict reluctantly abandons his dreams of steeplechase racing to support his father's career, eventually becoming his most trusted advisor. Twelve years later, as George's bid for the top office intensifies, Benedict finds himself targeted by ruthless political enemies who will stop at nothing to destroy the Juliard family's reputation and ambitions. What begins as dirty campaign tactics quickly escalates into something far more dangerous, forcing Benedict to navigate a treacherous world of blackmail, lies, and threats.

Simon Prebble's masterful narration brings Dick Francis's political thriller to vivid life, capturing both the refined atmosphere of British politics and the underlying menace that drives the plot. Prebble's nuanced performance distinguishes between characters while maintaining the story's mounting tension, his crisp delivery perfectly suited to Francis's sharp prose. The audio format enhances the novel's intricate plotting, allowing listeners to fully absorb the complex web of political maneuvering and personal betrayal. Prebble's pacing builds suspense naturally, making this departure from Francis's typical racing milieu an compelling listening experience.