Melbourne Cup Day 2011

The race that stops a nation is on today. There’s no need to spend your Melbourne Cup winnings on your next read, just borrow them for free from the library. Why not take a chance on one of the books in our guide to top racing fiction.
Dick Francis: Leading the pack is Dick Francis. Sadly missed, this former jockey has written numerous bestselling mystery tales set in the racing world.
Felix Francis: Taking up the reins from his father, Felix Francis has recently released “Gamble”, reminiscent of a Dick Francis mystery.
John Francome: A seven times Champion jockey, this bestselling author may well be your favourite.
Mark Daniel: Author of “Pity the sinner” odds are if you like racing thrillers, you’ll enjoy this.
Kentucky Rich by Fern Michaels: The first in a romance series of three books that follows Nealy Coleman’s amazing journey as she makes a place for herself in the dynamic and demanding world of horse racing. A banker trifecta.
Enid Bagnold: "National Velvet", a perennial favourite that you may have read before. Its worth re-reading, or, if you haven’t read it take a chance on this classic tale.
Lyndon Stacey: This author has more than an outside chance of offering a great read. Murder, and mystery in the racing world- it’s a winning combination.
“ Goulburn's deliverance” by Grant Rodwell. Feeling patriotic? Try this champion tale set in Sydney and Melbourne, featuring the Melbourne Cup.
Peter Klein: “Ring of fire” is his latest racing-related crime thriller. A fast paced and exciting read, it’s tipped to be a winner.
"Princess: the Miss Andretti story", by John Hunt: Are true stories a sure thing for you? This is the true rags-to-riches story of Miss Andretti, the horse from nowhere, bred from nothing, who cost nothing, was originally trained by a nobody and yet conquered the racing world.
"Lord of Misrule", by Jaimy Gordon: At the rock bottom end of the sports of kings is cheap horse racing. Try your luck and read about this often violent and ruthless world.