This document presents excerpts from "High Stakes" by Dick Francis, a novel centered on the world of horse racing. The narrative follows Steven Scott, a toy inventor and racehorse owner, as he uncovers and retaliates against a fraudulent scheme orchestrated by his trainer, Jody Leeds, and a bookmaker, Ganser Mays, involving the systematic switching of his racehorses to manipulate betting outcomes. Throughout the story, Steven, aided by friends Charlie, Owen, Bert, and Alexandra (Allie), meticulously plans and executes a complex counter-scheme to expose the deceit and recover his losses, culminating in a dramatic confrontation and the successful reacquisition of his prized horse, Energise. The excerpts also reveal details about Steven's personal life, including his romance with Allie and his unique profession, providing a glimpse into the characters and their motivations within this high-stakes environment.
