I just finished reading my first Dick Francis novel, Shattered, and thoroughly enjoyed it.

However, I have a couple of questions. (1) What is ex-directory? Never heard of it here in the U.S. (2) Is the Cretan Sunrise necklace real? I'd like to see a picture of it, if so.

Thanks

Carol -

Ex-directory just means your phone number isn't listed in the phonebook or available via directory inquiries, because you've paid to have it kept secret.

Has Dick Francis written a new book since Shattered? cannot find any info since that one...usually a new one comes out in OCtober...Thanks...

JR - I've checked everywhere -- gone to the Putnam site and to Amazon.com without finding anything out about a new book. I usually "give it to myself for my birthday" in October every year, but haven't been able to find out anything about a new book.

Dick Fancis has "retired." His wife died last September, and her assistance and research were a big part of his books. I had a letter from him recently and he said he planned to write no more books. A pity!

Nancy K. Figured such was the case with Mr. Francis. However for those of us just finding his books, it is even now a beginning. There will always be someone reading a Francis book for the first time. Ive posted the following opinion in other areas, that while his novels have the "indiscretions" of mysteries, they always seem to be handled in a "discreet" way. Should you speak to him, wish him well, I look forward to a long association with his work.

It is truly unfortunate if DF does not write another book. I would be given his new novel each Christmas and it was always the most appreciated present. I believe I understand why he will no longer write but maybe we could try to dissaude him from retirement? I would also like to wish him well.

I would also receive the latest Francis' mystery each Christmas, and it was sorely missed this year. Mr. Francis has my deepest sympathy and I thank him for his and his wife's great work over the years! Cheers and best wishes.

I always got the new book for Christmas and I really missed it this year. I would like to extend my sympathy to Mr. Francis and also wish that he would reconsider and write more books as no-one writes like he does.

I hope Mr. Francis reconsiders his retirement as well. I've read all of his books, and have started reading them again, but I would surely like to see a new one hit the shelves in the future.

Sean