Decider summary

Stratton Park: A Legacy in Peril

In Decider by Dick Francis, we are introduced to architect Lee Morris, who is hired to oversee the restoration of Stratton Park, a once-glorious racecourse. The estate is marred by a bitter family feud, which began with the death of the patriarch, Gerald Stratton. The heirs, his three children, are at odds over the future of the estate, and their hostility is palpable.

Lee, a man of principles, is determined to execute his job despite the hostile environment. He soon realizes that the Stratton siblings are not his only adversaries. The local government, eager to take control of the estate, is also a formidable opponent. As Lee navigates the treacherous waters, he forms an unlikely alliance with one of the Stratton siblings, a move that will significantly impact the course of events.

An Unsettling Series of Events

As the restoration progresses, Lee is plagued by a series of unsettling events. His office is broken into, and his beloved dog is poisoned, leading him to suspect foul play. His suspicions are confirmed when he is attacked and left to die in a seemingly accidental fire. Despite these attempts on his life, Lee remains undeterred, and his resolve to uncover the truth is only strengthened.

Lee's investigation leads him to a shocking revelation - the death of Gerald Stratton was no accident. Instead, it was a meticulously planned murder, and the culprits are closer than Lee could have ever imagined. He soon realizes that his own life is in grave danger, as the perpetrators will stop at nothing to protect their dark secret.

Unraveling the Truth

With the help of his newfound ally, Lee begins to unravel the twisted web of lies and deceit that shroud Stratton Park. He discovers that the siblings, driven by greed and jealousy, conspired to kill their father, and are now willing to eliminate anyone who threatens to expose their crime.

In a thrilling climax, Lee confronts the Stratton siblings and their co-conspirators, revealing their heinous crime to the world. In a fitting twist, the siblings turn on each other, consumed by their own paranoia and mistrust. The once grand Stratton Park, now stripped of its dark legacy, is left in the hands of those who truly care for its future.

The Decider of Fate

In the end, Decider is a story about the power of determination and resilience. Lee Morris, an outsider caught in a deadly family feud, emerges as the unlikely hero. His unwavering commitment to his work and his refusal to yield in the face of adversity ultimately lead to the downfall of the Stratton siblings and the restoration of justice at Stratton Park.

In conclusion, Decider is a riveting tale of murder, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of horse racing. Francis weaves a captivating narrative, drawing the reader into a world where the line between good and evil is blurred, and the outcome hinges on the actions of a determined few.