Twice Shy

By: Dick Francis

Narrated by: Simon Prebble

Length: 10 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Dick Francis’ witty blend of horseplay and mystery is an incredible combination. As a result, each of his equestrian novels gallops onto best-seller lists. In Twice Shy, Dick Francis whips up a fast-paced race through the risky world of horse betting.

Offering little explanation, a friend thrusts some cassette tapes into Jonathan Derry’s hands. But when the young man tries to play them, he realizes that, instead of “Oklahoma!”, he’s been given taped computer programs. Exploring the lines of code, Jonathan discovers that they can help him predict and beat any racing odds. It's not long before Jonathan is pulled into a deadly game of cat and mouse against foes who will do anything to get the lucrative programs.

With unexpected twists, both in the races and on the tapes, Jonathan is soon dodging danger at every turn. As William, a savvy ex-jockey, comes to his aid, Twice Shy becomes an exciting dual narration that highlights each colorful character and moment of suspense.

©1982 Dick Francis (P)1998 Recorded Books, LLC

Another Dick Francis masterpiece!

Narration was fantastic, story was enthralling. I especially liked the two part method and finally drawing the parts together.

Disappointing

DICK Francis is one of the best authors I’ve ever read but this book is Very disappointing

strange

not as good as the usual Francis books, illogical actions by the protagonists and poor ending

Disappointing storyline

Would you try another book from Dick Francis and/or Simon Prebble?

I like Dick Francis as an author. This story, however, was not his usual caliber. His books are usually intelligent and well researched.

What could Dick Francis have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

It is improbable that someone would think that trying to make a thug rich by making an oafish, unrefined, neanderthal into a savvy better was a stretch. I think this story also has a shelf-life that expired somewhere in the '90s, because computers are ubiquitous now.

Which character – as performed by Simon Prebble – was your favorite?

Jonathan Derry was good. I like Simon Prebble as a performer.

Could you see Twice Shy being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

No

Any additional comments?

Meh.

Simon Prebble needs no assistance!

This book was going on just fine without the help from the second narrator. He was a complete bore. His monotone voice was painful to keep up with and I can't I understand why Simon Prebble wasnt allowed to finish the book as his brither, William. I finally had to skip to the last chapter just to find out how the book ended. Simon Prebble doesn't need any help with reading a novel!!!

Are English laws this bad?

Fourteen years for first degree murder? Assault no violation of parole? I'm for mercy after repentance, but this seems crazy. First Dick Francis I wanted to be over. At least the hero was not tortured this time.

Disappointing story

This is the first dick Francis‘s story that I have not liked. It’s about two brothers who are so stupid they cause them selves and everybody else trouble and they have to take you along for the ride. The antagonist Angelo should’ve been killed at the very first and the story should’ve taken another direction.

Interesting in two parts

When Part 2 was announced I was taken by surprise ... it all fit together, but the transition was strange. Great book, two narrators - Prebble not my favorite -- but seems like certain narrators keep coming back with every author, regardless.

Disappointed

I agree with the other reviewer who didn’t particularly like this Dick Francis book. I guess everyone has off days. He must have had a few to come up with this one.

Not Francis’s greatest

The antagonist was really not believable and the plot wandered a quite a bit. Many of the characterizations were strong as always, but overall this one didn’t land.