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Hattie and Moose #8
Murder at the Steeplechase: A Thrilling Southern Horse Racing Cozy Murder Mystery
Hattie is looking forward to a stylish day at the Hillshire Farms Steeplechase with her bestie and Detective Bo Beckett. Fancy outfits, horse racing, and Southern fun make it the perfect double date—until the first race ends and the stables turn into a crime scene.
A jockey and his prized horse are found dead inside a stall.
Police call it a tragic accident, since Austin Grimes had medical issues. But Hattie notices something his mouth is open, as if he swallowed something. She suspects poisoning—and that means murder.
With authorities determined to take over, Hattie quietly begins her own investigation.
Debts, insurance motives, and scandal swirl around the steeplechase grounds, and nearly everyone has something to hide.
Alongside her grumpy Chow Chow, Moose, feisty Yorkie, Mini Pearl, and crime-magnet British Shorthair, Cecil,— Hattie races to uncover the killer before someone else ends up dead.
Bonus Recipes Included!
MULTIPLE BESTSELLING AUTHOR AND THE 2025 GLOBAL BOOK AWARDS SILVER MEDAL WINNER FOR A VERY STICKY MURDER.
If you enjoy clean cozy mysteries by authors like Ellery Adams, Ashley Weaver, Poppy Dennison, Jenn McKinlay, and Sophie Green, you’ll love Murder at the Steeplechase . Each book in this series reads as a satisfying standalone — no cliffhangers, no unfinished threads, just cozy charm and clever sleuthing.
A jockey and his prized horse are found dead inside a stall.
Police call it a tragic accident, since Austin Grimes had medical issues. But Hattie notices something his mouth is open, as if he swallowed something. She suspects poisoning—and that means murder.
With authorities determined to take over, Hattie quietly begins her own investigation.
Debts, insurance motives, and scandal swirl around the steeplechase grounds, and nearly everyone has something to hide.
Alongside her grumpy Chow Chow, Moose, feisty Yorkie, Mini Pearl, and crime-magnet British Shorthair, Cecil,— Hattie races to uncover the killer before someone else ends up dead.
Bonus Recipes Included!
MULTIPLE BESTSELLING AUTHOR AND THE 2025 GLOBAL BOOK AWARDS SILVER MEDAL WINNER FOR A VERY STICKY MURDER.
If you enjoy clean cozy mysteries by authors like Ellery Adams, Ashley Weaver, Poppy Dennison, Jenn McKinlay, and Sophie Green, you’ll love Murder at the Steeplechase . Each book in this series reads as a satisfying standalone — no cliffhangers, no unfinished threads, just cozy charm and clever sleuthing.
- GenresFictionCozy Mystery
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2026
About the author
Greta Sinclair
34 books100 followersGreta Sinclair is an award-winning and bestselling author of cozy mysteries where clever whodunits meet unforgettable destinations, delicious food, and lovable animal companions. A former medical professional, she now writes full-time, drawing inspiration from a lifetime of travel, culinary adventures, and the fascinating people and places she's encountered along the way.
Her novels have earned loyal readers who enjoy clean mysteries filled with humor, engaging characters, and immersive settings. Greta is the recipient of the Global Book Awards 2025 Silver Medal, and 2026 Gold Medal for cozy mystery, an honor that celebrates her passion for creating stories that entertain while transporting readers around the world.
She is the author of the Darcy & Mozart Culinary Cozy Mysteries and the Hattie & Moose Cozy Mysteries. Whether solving crimes in a European castle, a bustling Christmas market, or the heart of Nashville, Greta loves inviting readers to curl up with a cup of tea and enjoy an irresistible mystery—one page at a time.
Learn more on Greta's website: www.gretasinclair.com
Her novels have earned loyal readers who enjoy clean mysteries filled with humor, engaging characters, and immersive settings. Greta is the recipient of the Global Book Awards 2025 Silver Medal, and 2026 Gold Medal for cozy mystery, an honor that celebrates her passion for creating stories that entertain while transporting readers around the world.
She is the author of the Darcy & Mozart Culinary Cozy Mysteries and the Hattie & Moose Cozy Mysteries. Whether solving crimes in a European castle, a bustling Christmas market, or the heart of Nashville, Greta loves inviting readers to curl up with a cup of tea and enjoy an irresistible mystery—one page at a time.
Learn more on Greta's website: www.gretasinclair.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 31, 2026
All 5 stars for Greta Sinclair's Murder at the Steeplechase, a very fun cozy mystery. As it turns out, this is the 8th book in the Hattie and Moose Cozy Mystery, but my first introduction to the series. What had me interested was that this involved horses, racing, dogs, and a cat, too. Not knowing what to expect, it was such a great surprise to discover that the animals also help solve crimes, making it a unique cozy reading experience.
Before I go further, I would like to thank the author, Greta Sinclair, for providing this advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Even though Murder at the Steeplechase is my first venture into the series, I still found it very understandable, and could read it as a stand-alone. In her introduction, she provides a quick overview of the story. However, in the second paragraph, it does sound like a horse dies too, but let me not spoil things too much by stating that was not the case. Oh, and a great bonus, I'm not sure if the other books do this too, there are some recipes included at the end. What race day would be complete without a julep. This one sounds very delicious too--Blackberry Mint!
The story begins with Hatti (a PI) getting ready to go to the derby races, as a double date with Bo (a detective), and her friend Gracie (a podcaster and vet) and Tim (a lawyer), and of course, Moose, a chow chow, Cecil, a British Shorthair, and Mini Pearl, a Yorkie. I loved the homage to the late great comedian and country singer, Mini Pearl, stage name for Sarah Ophelia Colley Cannon, of the Grand Ole Opry fame. "How-DEE!"
I enjoyed how Greta offered the story from two different points of view--our protagonist, Hatti, and from her two dogs and cat, as well as the cattle dog, Shadow, and several other horses. It was great when the animals could help offer clues and were even the dogs were crucial in capturing the guilty party. And best of all, I was stumped pretty much to the end on solving this mystery.
In any of these cozy series, it is so refreshing when there are underlying minor themes discussed. And that's why I gave the full 5 stars. Often it's easy to just focus on solving the mystery/whodunit aspect. In this book, Greta offers readers to think about love of winning (and what comes with it) alongside of love for the horses/the sport. Over and over, we also see how the red herring character states that though there was rivalry between the two, there was genuine concern for the victim and how their rivalry helped their competitive natures. Even the rivalry between Moose and Cecil is set aside for the importance of solving the murder. Lastly, it is always fun when the main sleuth is faced with needing to solve the crime within a short time period--before the end of the day, so that the rest of the racing audience can go home.
The story is compelling, making it easy to cheer these major and minor sleuths as they delve deep into the horse racing world, full of many rivalries, secrets, and jealousy, all the while that the clock ticks down. The pacing of the story is just right. With all that going for this book, I highly recommend Murder at the Steeplechase to anyone who enjoys a good cozy, with some extra sleuthing, even if this is your first book in the series. I can't wait to start at the beginning to find out what other adventures Hatti and company has had.
Before I go further, I would like to thank the author, Greta Sinclair, for providing this advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Even though Murder at the Steeplechase is my first venture into the series, I still found it very understandable, and could read it as a stand-alone. In her introduction, she provides a quick overview of the story. However, in the second paragraph, it does sound like a horse dies too, but let me not spoil things too much by stating that was not the case. Oh, and a great bonus, I'm not sure if the other books do this too, there are some recipes included at the end. What race day would be complete without a julep. This one sounds very delicious too--Blackberry Mint!
The story begins with Hatti (a PI) getting ready to go to the derby races, as a double date with Bo (a detective), and her friend Gracie (a podcaster and vet) and Tim (a lawyer), and of course, Moose, a chow chow, Cecil, a British Shorthair, and Mini Pearl, a Yorkie. I loved the homage to the late great comedian and country singer, Mini Pearl, stage name for Sarah Ophelia Colley Cannon, of the Grand Ole Opry fame. "How-DEE!"
I enjoyed how Greta offered the story from two different points of view--our protagonist, Hatti, and from her two dogs and cat, as well as the cattle dog, Shadow, and several other horses. It was great when the animals could help offer clues and were even the dogs were crucial in capturing the guilty party. And best of all, I was stumped pretty much to the end on solving this mystery.
In any of these cozy series, it is so refreshing when there are underlying minor themes discussed. And that's why I gave the full 5 stars. Often it's easy to just focus on solving the mystery/whodunit aspect. In this book, Greta offers readers to think about love of winning (and what comes with it) alongside of love for the horses/the sport. Over and over, we also see how the red herring character states that though there was rivalry between the two, there was genuine concern for the victim and how their rivalry helped their competitive natures. Even the rivalry between Moose and Cecil is set aside for the importance of solving the murder. Lastly, it is always fun when the main sleuth is faced with needing to solve the crime within a short time period--before the end of the day, so that the rest of the racing audience can go home.
The story is compelling, making it easy to cheer these major and minor sleuths as they delve deep into the horse racing world, full of many rivalries, secrets, and jealousy, all the while that the clock ticks down. The pacing of the story is just right. With all that going for this book, I highly recommend Murder at the Steeplechase to anyone who enjoys a good cozy, with some extra sleuthing, even if this is your first book in the series. I can't wait to start at the beginning to find out what other adventures Hatti and company has had.
May 29, 2026
I did not know any of the cast and did not understand why the main characters felt they could walk into a potential crime scene and start picking stuff up. Eventually they introduce themselves as a PI and a police detective. The author needs to provide this information early, and can't expect that every reader has read the previous books. Nashville racing sounds friendly and stylish.
The author seems to have no knowledge whatsoever of racing or Thoroughbred horses. The horses change to quarter horses at one point (different breed), a filly destined for the Oaks (flat racing, three-year-old fillies) is entered and pet animals from random guests are allowed to run around the stables loose on race day (that would be a no. They would be kicked by the young horses). The following line occurs:
"The horse named Teacup - a buckskin mare with a thin charcoal mane - offered his account. He saw nothing out of place."
A mare does not change to a colt. Thoroughbreds have a restricted gene pool and do not include the dun (buckskin) gene.
I could cope with the animals talking amongst themselves, but I don't like putting some of the horse and dog names in italics, as though they were ships. And some are not in italics. Some venues are also in italics. This is confusing and it looks as though people are whispering or shrieking all the time. Churchill Downs does not need to be italicised.
A groom would be pretty much attached to the racing mare every minute of race day (to make sure she is okay and doesn't get fed anything that would show up in a drug test, etc.). This doesn't seem to be the case. No grooms are introduced. Jockeys would often ride four or five horses in one day so they are not available to do this. The trainer would also be with the horse before it was led to the ring. At one point, we're told police are talking to "staff and groomers." That would be grooms, or lads (old term). I don't think they have ever been called groomers in the history of the sport.
The term steeplechase is used, but only refers to the venue, as the races seem to be flat races.
The good part is that while the blurb says a horse is dead in its stable, that is not the case. Though, we are told a different horse died previously.
I read an e-ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review. I would read more on this topic if the author gets them edited by someone who knows horses, not really otherwise.
The author seems to have no knowledge whatsoever of racing or Thoroughbred horses. The horses change to quarter horses at one point (different breed), a filly destined for the Oaks (flat racing, three-year-old fillies) is entered and pet animals from random guests are allowed to run around the stables loose on race day (that would be a no. They would be kicked by the young horses). The following line occurs:
"The horse named Teacup - a buckskin mare with a thin charcoal mane - offered his account. He saw nothing out of place."
A mare does not change to a colt. Thoroughbreds have a restricted gene pool and do not include the dun (buckskin) gene.
I could cope with the animals talking amongst themselves, but I don't like putting some of the horse and dog names in italics, as though they were ships. And some are not in italics. Some venues are also in italics. This is confusing and it looks as though people are whispering or shrieking all the time. Churchill Downs does not need to be italicised.
A groom would be pretty much attached to the racing mare every minute of race day (to make sure she is okay and doesn't get fed anything that would show up in a drug test, etc.). This doesn't seem to be the case. No grooms are introduced. Jockeys would often ride four or five horses in one day so they are not available to do this. The trainer would also be with the horse before it was led to the ring. At one point, we're told police are talking to "staff and groomers." That would be grooms, or lads (old term). I don't think they have ever been called groomers in the history of the sport.
The term steeplechase is used, but only refers to the venue, as the races seem to be flat races.
The good part is that while the blurb says a horse is dead in its stable, that is not the case. Though, we are told a different horse died previously.
I read an e-ARC from the author. This is an unbiased review. I would read more on this topic if the author gets them edited by someone who knows horses, not really otherwise.
June 4, 2026
Hattie Leiper the PI, her beau Bo Beckett and co are off to the races literally in this new book Murder at the Steeplechase by Greta Sinclair . There’s the Hillshire Steeplechase, where one would watch the Oak Raven Crown race, a prestigious race that would determine which rider would move to the next race at Churchill Downs. So you can safely say there’s a lot at stake…
Hattie’s furry partners in crime are Mini Pearl a feisty Yorkie, Moose the big Chow Chow and by no means least Cecil the British shorthair cat who is very particular and detests his pet carrier with a passion only appeasing to travel in the car. Then there’s her bestie Gracie ,podcaster extraordinaire and vet and Tim a lawyer is her beau.
Hattie her pet entourage live in a flat above The Crooked Note in the heart of Music Row Nashville you know. And though her boyfriend Bo is a detective he’s quite happy to let her run the show. She can get up to things in places he would rather not know…but it gets results,so…
Today is going to be fun, and the crew are all going on a new adventure, even the pets have special dispensation to do the back scenes tour. A different part of Nashville’s culture is this and it’s all very exciting. The racing circuit ,horses and their jockeys ,you can feel the tension mount for each rider and their mount to give it their best with fierce competition and some met with opposition…
But as with everything with this gang things are bound to go awry and in a flash of horses hooves and thundering gallops it seems that a jockey and their horse has been walloped… A jockey Austin Grimes and his prize horse are found dead and it’s automatically assumed that it’s a tragic accident given his medical issues . But Hattie isn’t convinced . She suspects poison but who and why?
So investigating she does and with the animals help ,there’s even new pet detectives on the case alongside , another hound and a horse? Well I’ll be bound. Whatever next but who knows their jockeys better than their steed? None indeed.
Wonderfully written, I was soon immersed into the scenes vividly described and I imbibed reading in one sitting ,befitting one of Greta Sinclair Hattie and Moose stories of which this is no. 8. Because it’s more than great ,it’s a pleasant getaway for a while and makes you smile at the animal and owners antics.
Oh and don’t forget those yummy recipes in the back of the book too ,always scrumptious I’m telling you.
Hattie’s furry partners in crime are Mini Pearl a feisty Yorkie, Moose the big Chow Chow and by no means least Cecil the British shorthair cat who is very particular and detests his pet carrier with a passion only appeasing to travel in the car. Then there’s her bestie Gracie ,podcaster extraordinaire and vet and Tim a lawyer is her beau.
Hattie her pet entourage live in a flat above The Crooked Note in the heart of Music Row Nashville you know. And though her boyfriend Bo is a detective he’s quite happy to let her run the show. She can get up to things in places he would rather not know…but it gets results,so…
Today is going to be fun, and the crew are all going on a new adventure, even the pets have special dispensation to do the back scenes tour. A different part of Nashville’s culture is this and it’s all very exciting. The racing circuit ,horses and their jockeys ,you can feel the tension mount for each rider and their mount to give it their best with fierce competition and some met with opposition…
But as with everything with this gang things are bound to go awry and in a flash of horses hooves and thundering gallops it seems that a jockey and their horse has been walloped… A jockey Austin Grimes and his prize horse are found dead and it’s automatically assumed that it’s a tragic accident given his medical issues . But Hattie isn’t convinced . She suspects poison but who and why?
So investigating she does and with the animals help ,there’s even new pet detectives on the case alongside , another hound and a horse? Well I’ll be bound. Whatever next but who knows their jockeys better than their steed? None indeed.
Wonderfully written, I was soon immersed into the scenes vividly described and I imbibed reading in one sitting ,befitting one of Greta Sinclair Hattie and Moose stories of which this is no. 8. Because it’s more than great ,it’s a pleasant getaway for a while and makes you smile at the animal and owners antics.
Oh and don’t forget those yummy recipes in the back of the book too ,always scrumptious I’m telling you.
May 27, 2026
Murder at the Steeplechase is an excellent new instalment in the series, centred on amateur sleuth Hattie and her exceptionally smart animal companions: dogs Moose and Mini Pearl, and cat Cecil. The narrative begins with a relaxing double date for Hattie, her boyfriend Detective Bo Beckett, and their friends Gracie (a retired vet and podcaster) and her assistant/boyfriend, Tim, at the Hillshire Farms Steeplechase.
The day's enjoyment is suddenly cut short when a jockey is murdered right before a race, and a horse is deliberately drugged. A wide array of suspects quickly emerges, all motivated by jealousy, greed, or past animosity toward the victim. While Detective Bo officially takes the lead on the investigation, he is ably assisted by Hattie, Gracie, and Tim.
Meanwhile, the pets actively contribute to the search for clues, even gaining an unexpected ally in Shadow, a clever herding dog. It's noted that Moose and Cecil, despite their usual dynamic, only truly set aside their differences and cooperate when the stakes are highest.
Although a steeplechase might seem like an unusual backdrop for a cosy mystery, Greta's masterful writing style, enhanced by subtle humour, generates highly dynamic and vivid scenes. The depth of behind-the-scenes research into the setting is clearly evident throughout the book.
The novel presents a complex and engaging puzzle, compelling the reader to cheer on the human and animal sleuths as they work to connect all the pieces and ultimately reveal the truth. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and highly recommend it, eagerly anticipating Hattie and Bo's next adventure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
The day's enjoyment is suddenly cut short when a jockey is murdered right before a race, and a horse is deliberately drugged. A wide array of suspects quickly emerges, all motivated by jealousy, greed, or past animosity toward the victim. While Detective Bo officially takes the lead on the investigation, he is ably assisted by Hattie, Gracie, and Tim.
Meanwhile, the pets actively contribute to the search for clues, even gaining an unexpected ally in Shadow, a clever herding dog. It's noted that Moose and Cecil, despite their usual dynamic, only truly set aside their differences and cooperate when the stakes are highest.
Although a steeplechase might seem like an unusual backdrop for a cosy mystery, Greta's masterful writing style, enhanced by subtle humour, generates highly dynamic and vivid scenes. The depth of behind-the-scenes research into the setting is clearly evident throughout the book.
The novel presents a complex and engaging puzzle, compelling the reader to cheer on the human and animal sleuths as they work to connect all the pieces and ultimately reveal the truth. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and highly recommend it, eagerly anticipating Hattie and Bo's next adventure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 21, 2026
Nashville Horse Races
A double date at Hillshire Farms Steeplechase turns into a race to find a killer before the wrong person is arrested.
Hattie, Bo, Gracie and Tim were expecting a fun and exciting time what they found was conflict, debts, jealousy, greed and a heartless killer.
Being a PI, Hattie was helping with the investigation.
She soon learned the jockeys had more jealousy between them than she thought.
All the evidence points to one jockey but there's something that doesn't feel right about that to Hattie.
Hattie had her hands full with suspects that she had to clear from the list.
Jockeys with attitudes, businessman who scheduled everything from meetings to conversations and thought if he wanted it he had every right to bully people until he got it, a stressed owner whose debts are piling on and being pressured from every angle.
Meanwhile, Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil are making friends with Shadow, the cattle dog. Shadow watches over the horses and cares about them.
The animals are doing their own investigating. They are coming upon more evidence than the humans would have on their own.
With the humans and the animals looking and investigating will the killer slip away before they're caught?
The love of the horses versus the love of winning, which will win out in the end?
Greta Sinclair is an amazing writer. The way she writes the characters make you feel like you are right there with them.
The animals conversations keep you hooked in the story. Seeing things from their eyes that their humans can't understand.
If you haven't checked out the Hattie and Moose series, please do, it keeps getting better.
A double date at Hillshire Farms Steeplechase turns into a race to find a killer before the wrong person is arrested.
Hattie, Bo, Gracie and Tim were expecting a fun and exciting time what they found was conflict, debts, jealousy, greed and a heartless killer.
Being a PI, Hattie was helping with the investigation.
She soon learned the jockeys had more jealousy between them than she thought.
All the evidence points to one jockey but there's something that doesn't feel right about that to Hattie.
Hattie had her hands full with suspects that she had to clear from the list.
Jockeys with attitudes, businessman who scheduled everything from meetings to conversations and thought if he wanted it he had every right to bully people until he got it, a stressed owner whose debts are piling on and being pressured from every angle.
Meanwhile, Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil are making friends with Shadow, the cattle dog. Shadow watches over the horses and cares about them.
The animals are doing their own investigating. They are coming upon more evidence than the humans would have on their own.
With the humans and the animals looking and investigating will the killer slip away before they're caught?
The love of the horses versus the love of winning, which will win out in the end?
Greta Sinclair is an amazing writer. The way she writes the characters make you feel like you are right there with them.
The animals conversations keep you hooked in the story. Seeing things from their eyes that their humans can't understand.
If you haven't checked out the Hattie and Moose series, please do, it keeps getting better.
May 15, 2026
Hattie, along with her boyfriend Detective Bo Beckett, her grumpy Chow Chow Moose, her spirited Yorkie Mini Pearl, and her crime-magnet British Shorthair Cecil, is enjoying a day at the races with her best friend Gracie and Gracie's boyfriend Tim by her side.
Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil have the delightful opportunity to meet a few new friends, including Shadow, a cattle dog, and Olive Branch, one of the horses participating in the race.
Everyone is enjoying a wonderful time at the races until Austin Grimes, a jockey, is discovered dead and his horse, Olive, is found drugged in her stall. Initially, it seemed Austin had succumbed to health issues, but upon closer examination, Hattie notices something quite different from the first impression. It appears Austin may have been poisoned.
There are numerous suspects, yet all the evidence seems to point toward one individual in particular. However, she is not the only one who had a motive against Austin or felt wronged by him.
I thoroughly enjoyed the involvement of Moose, Mini Pearl, Cecil, and Shadow in the investigation as they uncovered clues and interviewed the horses to determine whether they had witnessed or heard anything that could help solve Austin's case. Their conversations with one another were quite entertaining.
Murder at the Steeplechase is an incredibly charming and captivating tale that had me racing toward the conclusion as I attempted to uncover the truth about Austin. The story of Murder at the Steeplechase is just as much Mini Pearl, Cecil, Shadow, Olive, and Austin’s story as it is Hattie’s and Moose’s.
The world-building is absolutely splendid and ranks among the best I’ve encountered in a while. I would love to read more stories set at the racetrack and hope to see Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil take on larger roles from time to time.
Make sure to grab a copy of Murder at the Steeplechase for another engaging read, and join Hattie, Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil for a thrilling day at the races!
Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil have the delightful opportunity to meet a few new friends, including Shadow, a cattle dog, and Olive Branch, one of the horses participating in the race.
Everyone is enjoying a wonderful time at the races until Austin Grimes, a jockey, is discovered dead and his horse, Olive, is found drugged in her stall. Initially, it seemed Austin had succumbed to health issues, but upon closer examination, Hattie notices something quite different from the first impression. It appears Austin may have been poisoned.
There are numerous suspects, yet all the evidence seems to point toward one individual in particular. However, she is not the only one who had a motive against Austin or felt wronged by him.
I thoroughly enjoyed the involvement of Moose, Mini Pearl, Cecil, and Shadow in the investigation as they uncovered clues and interviewed the horses to determine whether they had witnessed or heard anything that could help solve Austin's case. Their conversations with one another were quite entertaining.
Murder at the Steeplechase is an incredibly charming and captivating tale that had me racing toward the conclusion as I attempted to uncover the truth about Austin. The story of Murder at the Steeplechase is just as much Mini Pearl, Cecil, Shadow, Olive, and Austin’s story as it is Hattie’s and Moose’s.
The world-building is absolutely splendid and ranks among the best I’ve encountered in a while. I would love to read more stories set at the racetrack and hope to see Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil take on larger roles from time to time.
Make sure to grab a copy of Murder at the Steeplechase for another engaging read, and join Hattie, Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil for a thrilling day at the races!
May 22, 2026
In "Murder at the Steeplechase", Greta Sinclair brings us the glam world of horseracing. And it's not so glamorous underbelly. Hattie and Detective Bo and Gracie and Tim do a double date at Hillshire Farms Steeplechase. It's all Southern derby charm, fascinators and bourbon. With a dead body thrown in!
The blurb was a tad misleading. Our author writes "A jockey and his prized horse are found dead inside a stall." Whatttt? Don't scare me like that Greta! Yes, we lose a jockey. But Olive Branch was only drugged. Whew.
And if our crime sniffing trio wasn't enough, Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil are joined by Shadow, the cattle dog. His job is the care and protection of the horsies. I must say, the conversations between the animals absolutely make the book.
{You smell great! Like the dirt but less strong. } Answered by {Glad you can appreciate a good smell} (p20)
And doesn't Miss Mini Pearl look adorable on the cover with Hattie's fascinator.
The romance between Hattie and Bo is moving along nicely. No more snail's pace. We're up to turtle speed. No kiss, a little handholding.
The story isn't all scenery, with a minute side of mystery. The plotline was great. Worldbuilding by the author shows dedicated research, or maybe an insider's view of racing. Let's dangle a few red herrings and side twists. Yum.
So much fun, a quick and absorbing read. Some very tasty sounding recipes at the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The blurb was a tad misleading. Our author writes "A jockey and his prized horse are found dead inside a stall." Whatttt? Don't scare me like that Greta! Yes, we lose a jockey. But Olive Branch was only drugged. Whew.
And if our crime sniffing trio wasn't enough, Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil are joined by Shadow, the cattle dog. His job is the care and protection of the horsies. I must say, the conversations between the animals absolutely make the book.
{You smell great! Like the dirt but less strong. } Answered by {Glad you can appreciate a good smell} (p20)
And doesn't Miss Mini Pearl look adorable on the cover with Hattie's fascinator.
The romance between Hattie and Bo is moving along nicely. No more snail's pace. We're up to turtle speed. No kiss, a little handholding.
The story isn't all scenery, with a minute side of mystery. The plotline was great. Worldbuilding by the author shows dedicated research, or maybe an insider's view of racing. Let's dangle a few red herrings and side twists. Yum.
So much fun, a quick and absorbing read. Some very tasty sounding recipes at the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2026
I picked up Murder at Steeplechase because the setting sounded a little different from the usual cozy mystery, and I’m glad I did. The steeplechase backdrop gave the story a unique atmosphere and added an extra layer of excitement to the mystery. It was easy to picture the crowds, the competition, and the tension surrounding the event.
What kept me reading was how well the author balanced the mystery with the characters and setting. There were plenty of suspects, hidden motives, and unexpected developments that kept me second-guessing my theories. I enjoyed trying to connect the clues before the truth was revealed.
The main character was likable and felt realistic, which made it easy to become invested in the investigation. I also appreciated that the story moved at a steady pace without feeling rushed or dragged out.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining and well-crafted cozy mystery. The unique setting, engaging characters, and satisfying mystery made it a very enjoyable read, and I’d happily pick up another book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What kept me reading was how well the author balanced the mystery with the characters and setting. There were plenty of suspects, hidden motives, and unexpected developments that kept me second-guessing my theories. I enjoyed trying to connect the clues before the truth was revealed.
The main character was likable and felt realistic, which made it easy to become invested in the investigation. I also appreciated that the story moved at a steady pace without feeling rushed or dragged out.
Overall, I found this to be an entertaining and well-crafted cozy mystery. The unique setting, engaging characters, and satisfying mystery made it a very enjoyable read, and I’d happily pick up another book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
Hattie Leiper, her best friend Grace, and Detective Bo Beckett are dressed to the nines as they attend the Hillshire Farms Steeplechase.
Jockey Austin Grimes and his beloved horse, Olive Branch, are favored to win but, as the other competitors line up in the gates, Austin and Olive are nowhere to be found.
After the race, Hattie's four-legged friends - Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil- lead her to the stables where they find Austin dead and Olive heavily sedated.
The police believe the incident is a tragic accident, but Hattie believes otherwise after she finds clues that were previously missed.
Multiple scandals and secrets mean that almost everyone has something to hide.
Once again, Greta Sinclair has hit it out of the park!
This new addition to the Hattie and Moose Cozy Mystery series is wonderful! The plot kept me guessing, the end was surprising and, as always, the recipes at the end were scrumptious!
I am honored to have been on the Advanced Reader team for this book and I am happy to leave this voluntary review.
Jockey Austin Grimes and his beloved horse, Olive Branch, are favored to win but, as the other competitors line up in the gates, Austin and Olive are nowhere to be found.
After the race, Hattie's four-legged friends - Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil- lead her to the stables where they find Austin dead and Olive heavily sedated.
The police believe the incident is a tragic accident, but Hattie believes otherwise after she finds clues that were previously missed.
Multiple scandals and secrets mean that almost everyone has something to hide.
Once again, Greta Sinclair has hit it out of the park!
This new addition to the Hattie and Moose Cozy Mystery series is wonderful! The plot kept me guessing, the end was surprising and, as always, the recipes at the end were scrumptious!
I am honored to have been on the Advanced Reader team for this book and I am happy to leave this voluntary review.
May 23, 2026
This addition to the Hattie and Moose cozy mystery series gives you a look into the horse racing world. Hattie and her boyfriend, Detective Bo Beckett are all decked out for the Hillshire Farms Steeplechase along with Moose, Mini Pearl, and Cecil. But after the first race, jockey, Austin Grimes and his horse are found down. The horse was drugged, but Austin is dead. The police call it a tragic accident, but Hattie sees something is not right. And she decides to look into it. Added to the furry investigating animals is Shadow, the dog in charge of making sure everything is good around the horses. Digging into the depths of the horse racing world, Hattie and her animal crew find a lot of secrets, rivalries and jealousy that so many potential suspects are not sad that Austin is dead. What fun this book is, especially with the banter between the animals! This is a great series and not only do I highly recommend this book, but I highly recommend the entire series. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Review of advance copy
Quite an unusual crime scene this time!
Hattie’s best friend Gracie always comes up with the best ideas and this time around is no exception because Gracie and Tim, along with Hattie and Bo are going on a double date to the races at the Steeplechase! And…believe it or not, Gracie even managed to get them VIP passes and got approval for Moose, Cecil, and Mini Pearl to go along too. This story was a bit different, even with the animals helping to solve the crime. This time around, not only do we have Hattie’s fur kids, but there’s also another dog and the horses themselves. It’s so much fun when we get to read from the animals’ point of view. Moose and Cecil always arguing and Mini Pearl always getting between them, but when it counts, they’re a team. I really, really love these Hattie and Moose Cozy Mysteries and can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advanced reader’s copy through BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Hattie’s best friend Gracie always comes up with the best ideas and this time around is no exception because Gracie and Tim, along with Hattie and Bo are going on a double date to the races at the Steeplechase! And…believe it or not, Gracie even managed to get them VIP passes and got approval for Moose, Cecil, and Mini Pearl to go along too. This story was a bit different, even with the animals helping to solve the crime. This time around, not only do we have Hattie’s fur kids, but there’s also another dog and the horses themselves. It’s so much fun when we get to read from the animals’ point of view. Moose and Cecil always arguing and Mini Pearl always getting between them, but when it counts, they’re a team. I really, really love these Hattie and Moose Cozy Mysteries and can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advanced reader’s copy through BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 21, 2026
Hattie and Bo, double-dating with Tim and Gracie, are off to enjoy a day at Hillshire Farms Steeplechase. By virtue of Hattie being present, of course…🙄
The unfortunate murder victim is a jockey, about to enter the race. Suspects line up, motivated by jealousy, greed and lack of respect for the victim.
Moose, Cecil and Mini Pear; find an ally in Shadow, a herding dog, searching for clues and ably assisting Hattie. Moose and Cecil seem to have come to a better understanding with each other: not sure how long that will last. In any case, Cecil always cooperates when it goes down to the wire.
Unearthing events behind a steeplechase might not be a go-to for your usual cozy mystery, but Greta’s writing style and understated humour hits the right notes for me, creating dynamic visual scenes you can see play out. Clearly a lot of behind-the-scenes research has gone into this.
I hope Bo and Hattie are going to continue in their quest to root out evil.☺️
The unfortunate murder victim is a jockey, about to enter the race. Suspects line up, motivated by jealousy, greed and lack of respect for the victim.
Moose, Cecil and Mini Pear; find an ally in Shadow, a herding dog, searching for clues and ably assisting Hattie. Moose and Cecil seem to have come to a better understanding with each other: not sure how long that will last. In any case, Cecil always cooperates when it goes down to the wire.
Unearthing events behind a steeplechase might not be a go-to for your usual cozy mystery, but Greta’s writing style and understated humour hits the right notes for me, creating dynamic visual scenes you can see play out. Clearly a lot of behind-the-scenes research has gone into this.
I hope Bo and Hattie are going to continue in their quest to root out evil.☺️
June 7, 2026
Hattie & Gracie went on a double date to the Hillshire Steeplechase with their boyfriends Bo & Tim, and her fur babies; sassy Mini Pearl the Yorkie, Moose the Chow Chow & Cecil the cat. When the horse that was expected to win wasn’t at the starting lineup with his jockey, they went to look for them & found a dead jockey. (Note…the intro in the book says a jockey & his horse are found dead, but the horse was NOT killed. Hopefully that part of the book will be updated.) PI Hattie, Detective Bo, Veterinarian Grace & Lawyer Tim solve the whodunnit with lotsa help from the clue-finding fur babies. BTW, the funny animal conversations add a LOT to the story. I made the Blackberry Mint Juleps, Bourbon Pecan Pie, Hot Browns, and Deviled Eggs from the 4 recipes at the end of the book and everyone liked them! I received this nice cozy mystery as an ARC from Book Sprout & am leaving an honest review.
May 22, 2026
Murder at the Steeplechase (A Hattie and Moose Cozy Mystery 08) by Greta Sinclair has the reader going to the races, the horse races at that. Before Hattie and Detective Bo Beckett can enjoy the day at the races as only us Southern folk can do, death finds it way into the stables. A jockey is found dead. While most do not take their pets to the races, well there is also a cattle dog, Shadow, attending. Still it is a good thing Hattie does. While the animals are interviewing the racehorses, another tragedy happens. They always find a way to help with the investigation, this time with Shadow along to help at the racetrack. Secrets, problems, and scandal are discovered by Hattie with Shadow, Moose, Mini Pearl and Cecil doing their part to catch a killer before another death occurs. Love these dogs and cat, they are on the job right beside Hattie and Bo. 4.5 Stars
July 6, 2026
Hettie and the guys are going to the steeplechase for the first time. She is excited for this new experience. Grace had arranged this for all of them. She meets the jockeys and tours the stables before the race. Austin, the featured jockey is missing from the first race and when Hettie and Bo go to investigate they found him dead and his horse drugged. At first, due to Austin's health issues, they think it was natural causes. Evidence turns up that indicates that he was murdered.
Hettie uncovers multiple motives that could have led to the murder and multiple suspects and through careful investigation and the help of Moose, Minnie Pearl, Cecil and Shadow, the stable border collie, they work through all the clues to a satisfying conclusion. An intrighing and wonderful story. I received this ARC for an honest review.
Hettie uncovers multiple motives that could have led to the murder and multiple suspects and through careful investigation and the help of Moose, Minnie Pearl, Cecil and Shadow, the stable border collie, they work through all the clues to a satisfying conclusion. An intrighing and wonderful story. I received this ARC for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Murder at the Steeplechase is a Superb story and series about Hattie and her very clever sleuthing pets
Moose and Mini Pearl are dogs and Cecil is a cat and Detective Bo Beckett is her Boyfriend. They all go to Steeplechase with Gracie a Retired Vet and Podcaster and her Assistant and Boyfriend Tim. Unfortunately a Jockey was found dead and a horse was drugged. Detective Bo started to investigate with Hattie, Gracie and Tim. The pets are also doing their own search for clues with the help of Shadow a Cattle dog. There are many pieces to this puzzle. But can they discover all the pieces and uncover the truth?
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Moose and Mini Pearl are dogs and Cecil is a cat and Detective Bo Beckett is her Boyfriend. They all go to Steeplechase with Gracie a Retired Vet and Podcaster and her Assistant and Boyfriend Tim. Unfortunately a Jockey was found dead and a horse was drugged. Detective Bo started to investigate with Hattie, Gracie and Tim. The pets are also doing their own search for clues with the help of Shadow a Cattle dog. There are many pieces to this puzzle. But can they discover all the pieces and uncover the truth?
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I highly recommend that you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2026
Such an enjoyable series. This time, Hattie and co have gone to the horse races! However, a jockie is murdered and a horse is drugged! Hattie and the animals must work to solve the mystery. I love cozy mysteries that feature clue hunting pets, and this one even features chapters where you can read from the animals point of views! Maybe it's the animal lover in me, but I absolutely adore that. Also, this time I learned that dogs have even more sensitive noses than cats, which I had no idea! I figured that they were basically on par with one another. So a good mystery AND some knowledge. Can't hate that!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2026
Hattie, Bo, Gracie, and Tim with all of Hattie's pets, Moose, Minnie Pearl, and Cecil are going to watch the Stepplechase Race and they have special VIP status. Front row box and a chance to meet the favorite jockey and horse. The jockey doesn't appear for the race and they find him dead in the stall and Olive Branch in bad shape. Someone had sedated her almost to death. In this story the pets with the help of Shadow, from the track, do all the leg work for Hattie to be able to solve the case. I didn't know who the bad guy was until the very end so it kept me involved till the end.
I received an arc and this is my review.
I received an arc and this is my review.
May 26, 2026
Murder at the Steeplechase is a winner. Hattie, her friends and furbabies are all dressed up and excited for a wonderful day at the races. But, their adventure turns into a case for the humans and furbabies to solve. Greta’s writing isn’t just a story, you actually feel like you’re in the horse racing world and the mystery. I actually want to dress up and experience it for real…minus the mystery. The characters are wonderful and the plot has twists and red herrings that keep you invested until the end. Recipes are included, that I can’t wait to try. I thoroughly enjoyed this book (a 10 out of 10 stars) and I highly recommend getting a copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hattie, Bo, Gracie, and Tim decide to spend a fun day double dating at the local horse races but there's a murder--- Of course they get involved. With the help of Moose, Minnie Pearl. and Cecil they investigate to find who killed the jockey and why. Shadow, a cattle dog who lives at the stables is a big help and becomes a good friend to the other fur babies. Several of the horses also become friends. Another good read in the series.
May 21, 2026
Ready, Set, Go! Get a taste of horse racing! Moose, Mini Pearl, Cecil, and a new friend, Shadow, feature in this story. They find clues and get Hattie to come with them to the spot—lots of buildings, lots of acreage. Hattie, of course, takes Bo with her most of the time. This is a super interesting story. You will want to read it to see all of the twists and turns and try to solve the murder first. I read an ARC of Murder at the Steeplechase.
May 21, 2026
'A jockey and his prized horse are found dead inside a stall.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complicated and quirky and mysterious. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complicated and quirky and mysterious. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2026
This is a great read, especially appropriate coming out about the same time as the Kentucky Derby and other horse races were in the news. The furry cast of characters added a unique twist to the story as they played their own parts in the investigation. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end. I would recommend it for anyone who loves cozies with dogs and cats included.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2026
Finally, a great date with Bo and of course, what happens? - an "accident". Hattie and Moose are on the hunt - to figure out the
"accident" that she doesn't think was an accident. Lots of twists and turns set at a racetrack and all the secrets behind the racetrack. A good mystery, kept my interest throughout. Can be read alone but still better when read as a series, in my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"accident" that she doesn't think was an accident. Lots of twists and turns set at a racetrack and all the secrets behind the racetrack. A good mystery, kept my interest throughout. Can be read alone but still better when read as a series, in my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2026
Hattie, Bo, Tim and Gracie are going to the steeplechase races in style. However before the first race can start you already have a murder and a drugged horse. The mystery continues and there are two main suspects. The author gives you a lot of red herrings before you find out who does it. You also get a bonus , three recipes to try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2026
Murder at the Steeplechase
Ok, you got a decision to is the Dogs and Cat, Hattie and Graces and their boy friends, one a Cop the other a Lawyer. The Animals are hilarious, there relationships, each personality. The people are good at what they do. Oh I didn't mention the Race Horses, and the Jockeys. There is so much to keep up with. But, follow the animals. Enjoy, Greta Sinclair the author knows how to spend a story that ends with a murder. Don't miss it.
Ok, you got a decision to is the Dogs and Cat, Hattie and Graces and their boy friends, one a Cop the other a Lawyer. The Animals are hilarious, there relationships, each personality. The people are good at what they do. Oh I didn't mention the Race Horses, and the Jockeys. There is so much to keep up with. But, follow the animals. Enjoy, Greta Sinclair the author knows how to spend a story that ends with a murder. Don't miss it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fun and interesting setting. Having to sort out all the potential bad guys is quite a job for Hattie and her crew. It seems like everyone has a bone to pick. It creates a good mystery and some exciting scenes. Thanks for another good one Ms. Sinclair!
I got to read this in advance for my honest opinion.
I got to read this in advance for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this story. It drew me in right away and kept my interest until the end. I couldn't wait to see how things turned out. I love that the animals played a bigger part in the story and loved seeing things from their point of view.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
À jockey la killed for an unknown reason. Who la the culprit?La il the owner or the racetrack or the man qui wants To buy Jim out? Was or someone else? Can Minnie Pearl, Moose, Cecil and Hattie solve the murder? Greta Sinclair la a very gifted author.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this Book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion or this Book.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this Book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion or this Book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Havoc at the race track.
A delightful and enjoyable cozy with Hattie, Bo and a team of clever fur babies. While Hattie and Bo are competent investigators, it's clear the fur babies are the ones who are invaluable in the investigation. Lots of suspects, with one hiding in plain sight.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
A delightful and enjoyable cozy with Hattie, Bo and a team of clever fur babies. While Hattie and Bo are competent investigators, it's clear the fur babies are the ones who are invaluable in the investigation. Lots of suspects, with one hiding in plain sight.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
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