'Jilly Cooper this ain't' - must-read novels and betting books from our writers

Derby Day by DJ Taylor

All aspects of VIctorian society are depicted as it congregates on Epsom Downs in this mystery novel. The racehorse Tiberius features at the centre of the plot as a coup;e of London crooks conspire to pull off a betting sting. Taylor was reportedly inspired by William Frith's famous 1858 canvas detailing the historic race. Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize.
Daniel Hill

On Swift Horses by Shannon Pufahl

A must-read debut novel by Shannon Pufahl that charts the divergent and dangerous journeys of a lonely newlywed and her wayward brother-in-law, who risks everything for his illicit love. Meanwhile, Muriel has quickly grown tired of her suburban life in San Diego with her husband Lee and begins slipping off to Del Mar to bet and eavesdrop. She embraces the exhilarating taboos of gambling and being caught alone at the track.
Jonathan Harding

Bridge Of Clay by Markus Zusak

Markus Zusak covers a lot of ground in Bridge Of Clay, and the novel, set in Australia, has racing as one of its key themes. The book taps into the country's passion for the sport, and is clearly well-researched, with Zusak an Australian native. It is not a quick, or at times particularly easy, read but is worth your time.
David Baxter