The Edge

The British author's 27th novel boasts the combination of subject matter and prose style that have made him an international bestseller: thoroughbred horses and heroes, heart palpitations, speed and comedy. Heading the large, colorful cast, narrator Torquil (Tor) Kelsey is an undercover agent for the British Jockey Club. The members have been balked in their efforts to convict wily Julius Apollo Filmer of murder and other crimes that tarnish the sport of kings. With hopes of gaining evidence against Filmer, Tor joins the rich crowd going from England to Canada for ``The Great Transcontinental Mystery Race Train.'' Pretending he's a waiter, Tor keeps an eye on Filmer as the train rockets across the Northwest. There is no limit to the thrills along the way, and no way of predicting the stunning denouement. 200,000 first printing; $150,000 ad/promo; Literary Guild main selection. (Feb.)