Charles Blanning's latest work, "Electric Rabbit", delivers a fast-paced follow-up to his earlier novel "Rags to Riches", which "Country Life" praised as "a thrilling page-turner."
Set in the mid-1920s, the story centres on the ambitious American entrepreneur Charles Alexander Munn II, who introduces the concept of greyhound racing to England. With the backing of financial strategist and investor General Alfred Critchley, Munn establishes racing stadiums in Manchester and London, drawing tens of thousands of eager bettors from all walks of life.
However, danger looms as the criminal underworld recognises a new opportunity. Bookmakers fall prey to protection rackets, while turf wars between rival gangs threaten the sport's newfound popularity. Amidst this turmoil, Jack Howard, a racehorse trainer and jockey, and his friends find themselves entangled in a web of conspiracy and violence, all as greyhound racing prepares to host its inaugural Greyhound Derby before a massive crowd of 100,000 spectators.
Set against the backdrop of 1920s England and Ireland, "Electric Rabbit" masterfully blends the excitement of horse racing, greyhound racing, hunting, coursing, and boxing into a vivid portrayal of the sporting world of the era.