Juleps, Jockeys, & Justice

Katie and Maverick #9

by Mary Seifert

Spring has blossomed into May, and Katie’s students have figured out a way to bring the excitement and fun of the Kentucky Derby to their year-end festivities. Katie is more than glad to work out ways to turn the big event into math lessons, constructing lesson plans to include the mathematics associated with wagering, odds, and the equine industry. So it’s all set—the Derby will turn into an event, even in faraway Minnesota.

As her feisty landlady, Ida, and her students begin the planning of a Derby Day party, spirits are running high, but before the party can happen, a freak storm races through town, Katie finds a body, which quickly disappears, and the only witness who could verify her story is Maverick. He’s a brilliant dog, but he’s not talking.

After tension-filled hours, the body is found, and now the questions remain, especially when it appears one of the horses may have contributed to the death of its owner. It’s up to Katie to use her puzzle solving skill to save the animal from destruction. Maverick will be there to sniff out the clues—but will they solve the case in time?

Praise for this amazing cozy series by multiple award-winning author Mary 2024 Chanticleer International Book Awards - Semi-Finalist - Mystery & Mayhem category2024 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award - Top Pick - Cozy Mysteries2024 International Impact Awards - Winner - Books in a Series
“…. a solid 5 out of 5 stars. For those seeking not just a mystery but an immersive experience, Mary Seifert's debut novel [is] the perfect companion for a cosy night in, a cup of tea, and a journey into the heart of a captivating mystery.” – Maverick, Movies & Murder, Online Book Club.org

“...an intricate mystery with plenty of action and suspense. Plus, I like the dog.” David Housewright Edgar Award winning author of Something Wicked

“From navigating small town life to solving puzzling murders, Katie and Maverick are a delight.” —Mindy Mejia, international bestseller author

“Immediately captivating! Katie and Maverick are destined to become a notable amateur sleuth team in the mystery world.” –Connie Shelton, USA Today bestselling author

“I thoroughly enjoyed this debut book by Mary Seifert! This well written and thoughtful story kept me engaged with fun characters, interesting information and mind and math puzzles. Looking forward to book two!” James, 5-star review

“Fun read! The author has an authentic voice and has done her research. The plot covers many dogs, history, the inner workings of hospitals, family dynamics, and more. I especially enjoyed the puzzles and little-known historical facts that were part of the story. Maverick, Movies & Murder kept my interest and left me wanting more. Highly recommend!” Beth, online 5-star review

“…very much looking forward to her next!!! I can’t get enough of Ms. Seifert’s books!!” – proudarmymom, 5 stars

“…plenty of unanticipated twists and turns. It kept [me] up reading to see what was going to happen next!” – RHN, 5 stars online

“Maverick, Movies, and Murder isn't merely a cosy mystery; it's a literary embrace, a narrative that unfolds in layers, revealing both the familiar and the unexpected.” OnlineBookClub.org review

Genres: Mystery

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2025

About the author

Mary Seifert is the author of the Katie and Maverick Cozy Mysteries 2024 International IMPACT Award winner for books in a series, a collection of fun and thrilling tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Her books, including the 2023 American Fiction Award finalist Maverick, Movies & Murder and the 2024 Chanticleer Murder and Mayhem finalist Santa, Snowflakes & Strychnine, are must-reads for cozy mystery fans who enjoy a good puzzle wrapped in a heartwarming story.

Set in the charming landscapes of West Central Minnesota, where the lakes begin and the criminals are caught, Mary’s stories transport readers to a world of intrigue, humor, and small-town charm. Each book is a delightful mix of suspense and warmth, featuring memorable characters, ingenious puzzles, and clever twists that keep you guessing until the very end.

Busy crafting her next mystery, Mary indulges in her love of research, currently studying the flora and fauna of the Nantahala National Forest and the magnetic call of Atlanta for the upcoming installment of her series. She believes that every great mystery starts with a curious mind and a love for uncovering the truth, but scrupulously scrubs her browsers history of any hint of crime.

Join Mary on her literary journey, where a good story is always paired with a cozy blanket, a glass of wine, and a touch of mischief!

Reviews

[Jennifer Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Seifert never lets me down...Juleps, Jockeys, & Justice was just exactly what I needed to read today. I love her characters enormously! I always learn something new in her stories and this was no different. Since I'm a huge lover of horses and mysteries, I was hooked immediately. Read it--you won't regret it! If you haven't read anything from this series yet... do yourself a favor and start today. Each book gets better and better and I'm eagerly awaiting more Katie and Maverick.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a fun book to read. I loved the characters in this book, human, canine and equine. They are so well developed that you feel you are right among them. The storyline makes this a wonderful page turner where you just need to know what happens next. A fantastic book to read and relax with.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I am leaving a voluntary and honest review.