The Jagged Circle - (Jockey Girl) by Shelley Peterson (Paperback)

About the Book

Evangeline Gibb and her heroic horse, Kazzam, team up to solve a horrific crime where treachery, deception, intrigue, and suspense weave together in a hoof-pounding race to save the missing girls before it's too late.

Book Synopsis

A spine-tingling adventure with as many twists and turns as a steeplechase course.

"The Jagged Circle is full of suspense and a perfect book for horse lovers." -- Amber Marshall, equestrian and star of CBC's Heartland

It's spring break and Evangeline Gibb is bored, stuck at her Gran Mary's farm mucking stalls while her friends are away on vacation. She decides to spend the time training her horse, Kazzam, to ride cross-country to compete in the March Madness Steeplechase. But everything changes when Evie takes Kazzam for a gallop through the woods and makes a grisly discovery.

In a hoof-pounding race against time, Evie and her heroic horse team up to solve a mystery that involves, murder and deception, her troubled stepsister, a circle of runaway teen girls, and long-hidden truths about her family.

Review Quotes

The Jagged Circle is a thrilling read and I really enjoyed it. The real places mixed with fiction make it extra exciting. I will definitely think of your book the next time I ride through those trails and woods!-- "Selena O'Hanlon, Olympic equestrian"

A fast-paced mystery that deals with complex issues of addiction and cult-like behaviour in teens.-- "In The Hills"

A good read for late teen readers who have an interest in horses and stories that involve family struggles, strong female protagonists... Highly recommended.-- "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"

A propulsive plot that reads like the best Nancy Drew mystery, with a unique edge. Perfect for readers young and old!-- "Karma Brown, bestselling author of Recipe for a Perfect Wife"

Growing up, Shelley's books were always my favourite. As a horse lover they transported me into a magical world and this latest addition does not disappoint. The Jagged Circle is full of suspense and a perfect book for horse lovers!-- "Amber Marshall, equestrian and star of CBC's Heartland"

Peterson tackles the tough societal issues of addiction, abuse, and homelessness with compassion and the understanding that people are not always who we want them to be.-- "The Rider, for Jockey Girl"

Peterson, who has ridden all her life, writes with knowledge and passion about the world of horses.-- "London Free Press"

Peterson's depiction of the racing world is intriguing and comprehensive, and stories about girls and their horses will never go out of style.-- "Booklist, for Jockey Girl"

Shelley Peterson masterfully captures the allure of a cult, how they prey on people's vulnerabilities, and how truly difficult they are to leave. The Jagged Circle is a riveting cautionary tale every young person should read.-- "Josh Bloch, CBC producer and editor host of CBC Podcasts Uncover Escaping NXIVM"

The balance of mystery, horses, humor, and easy vocabulary makes this a perfect pick for readers who are looking for thrills but not ready to dive into traditional YA murder mysteries.-- "School Library Journal"

This outing will thrill Peterson's fans -- she has many in Canada -- and should win her some new ones.-- "Kirkus Reviews, for Jockey Girl"

About the Author

Shelley Peterson is the bestselling author of several novels for young readers, including Sundancer, Christmas at Saddle Creek, and Jockey Girl. She raises horses at Fox Ridge, her family's stable in Caledon, Ontario.