Read Felix Francis Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on June 17, 2026

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Felix Francis, the son of the legendary thriller writer Dick Francis, has carved his own niche in the world of mystery and crime fiction. While stepping into the shadow of such an iconic author could be daunting, Felix has successfully blended his father’s legacy with his own voice, crafting novels that are suspenseful, methodical, and deeply engaging. His books transport readers into a world of high-stakes intrigue, often set against the glamorous yet treacherous backdrop of horse racing, while exploring the human psyche, morality, and the consequences of greed and deceit. For both longtime fans of Dick Francis and newcomers to the genre, Felix’s works offer a compelling reading experience, where every twist is deliberate and every character is carefully crafted.

List Of Felix Francis Books In Order

More On Felix Francis Books In Chronological Order

1. Deadly Game (2006)

Felix Francis made his debut as a solo author with *Deadly Game*, a gripping thriller that pulls readers into the world of high-stakes horse racing. The plot centers around a jockey who finds himself tangled in a deadly game of corruption, greed, and murder. It’s a fast-paced adventure, with the tension building up through every turn, as the characters try to outsmart one another. You can’t help but root for the main character as he fights for justice while navigating the murky waters of the racing world.

2. Bloodline (2008)

In *Bloodline*, Felix Francis takes us on another rollercoaster ride through the world of horse racing, but this time, things get personal. The story revolves around a bloodstock agent who uncovers a deadly family secret. With a plot full of intrigue and deception, you’ll feel like you’re part of the race, as each chapter keeps you guessing who’s behind the sinister acts. It’s got that perfect mix of mystery and drama that leaves you on the edge of your seat.

3. Silks (2011)

Felix Francis’ *Silks* brings the courtroom drama and horse racing world together in a way that makes you sit up and take notice. This novel focuses on a barrister who’s thrown into a case involving horse racing fraud and potential murder. It’s fascinating how Francis blends legal thrills with the intensity of racing. The suspense is palpable, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, there’s a twist waiting to leave you reeling.

4. Reflex (2012)

In *Reflex*, Felix Francis ups the ante once again with a plot that mixes horse racing, mystery, and personal revenge. This time, the protagonist is caught up in a strange and dangerous scheme surrounding the world of racing injuries and suspicious deaths. It’s a story that shows the darker side of the sport, and as you read, you get the feeling that no one can be trusted. With pulse-pounding action, this book keeps you on your toes, never quite sure what’s coming next.

5. Gamble (2013)

*Gamble* takes readers into the thrilling and treacherous world of gambling and horse racing. The plot revolves around the investigation into a high-profile horse-racing syndicate, and it doesn’t take long before it becomes clear that the stakes are higher than anyone imagined. Full of suspense and with a twisty, unexpected ending, this book is all about that thin line between chance and disaster. It keeps you glued to the pages with its dark look into the world of betting and corruption.

6. Pulse (2014)

In *Pulse*, Felix Francis dives into the world of medical mysteries and horse racing, exploring what happens when you combine cutting-edge science with deadly ambition. This novel follows a scientist who uncovers some very disturbing truths about the health of racehorses. The plot is intense and thought-provoking, weaving together the thrill of racing with the darker side of research and exploitation. It’s a page-turner, packed with questions about ethics, loyalty, and what people will do for success.

7. Front Runner (2015)

*Front Runner* mixes the world of horse racing with thrilling action and high-level intrigue. The protagonist, a man caught up in the world of trainers, gamblers, and secretive horse owners, gets pulled into a race against time to uncover a plot that could change everything. With twists and turns at every corner, the suspense in this book is almost unbearable. Felix Francis does an amazing job keeping you hooked from start to finish with a mixture of fast-paced action and a deep dive into the darker aspects of racing.

8. Under Orders (2016)

In *Under Orders*, Felix Francis delivers yet another page-turner that blends horse racing with a personal quest for answers. The protagonist, a racing insider, is on a mission to uncover a conspiracy that involves not just the lives of racehorses, but human lives as well. This novel is filled with backstabbing, secrets, and a dangerous plot that threatens to bring everything to the ground. It’s all about power, influence, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. A must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery with a racing backdrop.

9. The Racing Game (2017)

With *The Racing Game*, Felix Francis brings back the high-stakes thrills of horse racing, but this time the focus is on the strategic side of the game. The plot revolves around a trainer who must navigate the complex world of betting, rivalries, and insider information to keep his stables alive. It’s a game of manipulation, timing, and chance, with suspense building from page one. This book really digs into the intricacies of the sport and all the shady dealings that come with it, making it a fun and fascinating read for racing fans and mystery lovers alike.

10. Murder on the Down Low (2019)

*Murder on the Down Low* mixes horse racing with a murder mystery in a way that only Felix Francis can. The protagonist is investigating a suspicious death that may have something to do with the racing world’s underbelly. There are plenty of twists, as well as a bit of a puzzle to solve, which keeps you guessing all the way through. The investigation reveals hidden secrets that show just how dangerous the world of racing can be when the stakes are high. It’s an engaging and thrilling ride from start to finish.

11. A Murderous Game (2020)

Felix Francis’ *A Murderous Game* is a twisty thriller set in the dangerous intersection between horse racing and crime. A top jockey finds himself in the crosshairs of both the law and those looking to profit from his downfall. This book is filled with action, shady deals, and enough suspense to keep you up at night. If you like your stories fast-paced with plenty of high drama, then this one is definitely for you. The racing world’s dangerous game becomes even deadlier with each chapter.

12. Steeplechase (2022)

In *Steeplechase*, Felix Francis takes readers through the perilous world of jump racing, where the risks are even higher than regular horse racing. The protagonist is a former jockey turned trainer who must uncover the truth behind a suspicious string of accidents at a top racing event. It’s full of intrigue, dangerous rivalries, and the kind of tension that makes you question everyone’s motivations. Francis does a fantastic job of painting the sport as a beautiful but brutal world where secrets run deep and danger is always lurking just around the corner.

Background On Felix Francis Books

Felix Francis began collaborating with his father in the later years of Dick Francis’s career, initially co-writing several novels. After Dick Francis passed away in 2010, Felix took up the mantle, continuing to write under the family name while infusing his own style. His books typically fall into the crime thriller genre, often blending traditional detective work with elements of action, suspense, and psychological tension.

A hallmark of Felix Francis’s novels is their meticulous attention to detail. The horse racing world, in particular, is depicted with insider knowledge, offering readers both an authentic portrayal of the sport and a gripping backdrop for suspenseful plots. Unlike formulaic thrillers, his stories often explore the nuances of human behavior, ethics, and relationships, giving readers more than just a puzzle to solve-they’re a window into complex human dynamics.

Some of his notable titles include Gamble, Crossfire, Refusal, and Malpractice, each showcasing a slightly different angle of crime, from personal revenge to corporate corruption. Across these works, Felix manages to honor the spirit of his father’s legacy while establishing himself as a distinct and capable voice in crime fiction.

Reading Order Explained

One question that often arises among readers is whether Felix Francis’s books need to be read in a specific order. Unlike long-running series where plotlines and character development span multiple books, Felix’s novels are largely stand-alone stories. However, there are recurring characters, subtle references, and thematic threads that can enhance the reading experience if tackled chronologically.

A typical recommended reading order might start with the books he co-wrote with Dick Francis, such as Dead Heat and Silks, to observe the transition of style and narrative voice. Following this, readers can move to Felix’s solo works in the order of their publication. This approach allows readers to appreciate the evolution of his writing, noting how his pacing, plotting, and character depth have matured over time.

While it’s not strictly necessary to read them in order, sequential reading can reveal subtle nods to previous cases or character developments. For fans who enjoy spotting continuity and Easter eggs in crime novels, chronological reading can provide an extra layer of satisfaction.

What I Like About The Series?

What stands out most about Felix Francis’s books is the perfect balance between suspense and realism. Each story is tightly plotted, with no wasted pages, yet it never feels rushed. The characters are relatable and multidimensional-villains are convincingly sinister, protagonists are flawed but determined, and supporting roles often provide moments of insight or dark humor that enrich the narrative.

I particularly enjoy the way Felix integrates his knowledge of horse racing and sports into his plots. These details aren’t just decorative; they’re essential to the story, grounding even the most dramatic twists in reality. Additionally, his moral explorations-what drives people to crime, how justice is interpreted, and the weight of choices-give the novels an intellectual depth beyond the thrill of the chase.

Another strength is his pacing. Felix knows exactly when to ratchet up tension, when to reveal secrets, and when to let the suspense simmer, creating a reading experience that feels cinematic and immersive.

Should You Read Felix Francis Books In Order?

The short answer: not strictly, but yes, for the full experience.

Since the novels are largely self-contained, you can pick up almost any Felix Francis book and enjoy it independently. This makes his works accessible for casual readers or those who stumble upon a single title. However, reading them in order-particularly the transition from co-authored works to solo novels-offers insight into the evolution of his craft and a richer appreciation of recurring themes and characters.

For die-hard fans of the Francis legacy or those who like to follow narrative arcs and character development closely, sequential reading is rewarding. But for readers seeking standalone suspense, any individual book delivers the tension, intrigue, and clever plotting that Felix is known for.