Victor Bahna’s dramatic thriller showcases the darker side of the storied sport of thoroughbred racing.

Here we meet Matt Galiano, a horse racing enthusiast and former bookmaker for the Kaufman mob. Unfortunately, he left the organization on bad terms and now is being tracked down after overhearing his past cohorts voice intentions to fix a race. At one point, while being chased, Matt momentarily seeks shelter and by happenstance connects with up-and-coming trainer, Kristine Connelly. The two unite to right the wrongs of the ne’er-do-wells involved with the performance-enhancing drugs, controlled race outcomes, and money laundering that give the sport a bad name. Ultimately, the two attempt to save an injured dapple-coated bay winner, that has been kidnapped and is headed for the slaughterhouse.

Drawing on his own experience and love of the sport, Bahna captures the essence of the racetrack, smartly contrasting the quieter side of the landscape— the morning dew, the smell of linament and the sound of hoof beats—with the excitement of race day.

He also introduces a large cast of credible characters, from owners and trainers to mobsters, local law enforcement officers and FBI agents. A rehab facility for injured horses and those past their prime proves a nice counterpoint to the story’s evil doings, but with an unexpected twist. Meanwhile, the fluid action helps keep readers on edge.

Although horse racing is traditionally considered a male-dominated sport, Bahna justly paints Kristine as a genuinely respected horsewoman who can hold her own in the toughest of situations.

Unfortunately the book is hampered by numerous typos and missing or wrong words. Additionally, while the epilogue offers a nice character wrap-up, its depiction of the culmination of Matt and Kristine’s relationship seems a bit too contrived for the general drama of the story.

Nonetheless, with a well-crafted, action-filled plot, and solid characters, Bahna’s work should appeal to both equine and non-equine enthusiasts alike.

Also available as an ebook.