Definitely one of my favourite Kathryn Kennys when it comes to re-reading them, possibly because it's centred around Regan, who is one of the most appealing characters in the series. This is a solid mystery, and one of the few Away-From-Sleepyside books that seems to benefit from the different location, rather than seeming like little more than guide-books to wherever Trixie and Honey have ended up. There's a little of that here, but it's not overwhelming, and the quality of the plot makes up for it.

Regan disappears from the Wheeler's stable with no explanation after Mr. Wheeler is visited by Mr. Worthington, who owns racehorses. The girls (the boys are off at camp) discover that Regan was suspected seven years earlier of having doped one of Mr. Worthington's racehorses, and he disappeared. Proving once again that the Wheelers have never heard the term "background check", they hired him not knowing his checkered past. When Regan hears Worthington is visiting his current employers, he leaves to go to Saratoga to clear his name once and for all. The girls follow along, convinced they can help him out. Luckily the boys show up at the end to rescue Trixie and Honey, who have once again gotten in over their heads.
I just now realized how very sexist that is. Moving on. ( )

A childhood favorite re-visited.

Is the story as good as I remember? – Yes

What ages would I recommend it too? – Ten and up.

Length? – Most of a day’s read.

Characters? – Memorable, several characters.

Setting? – Real world, pre - computer pre - air conditioning, pre - cell phone.

Written approximately? – 1979.

Does the story leave questions in the readers mind? – Ready to read more.

Any issues the author (or a more recent publisher) should cover? Yes. A slight mention of the time frame of the story - as the teens are given far more freedom to come and go as they please than would be safe today. Also, the absence of computers, and cell phones.

Short storyline: Trixie Belden and Honey attempt to discover the reason behind Regan's disappearance. While doing so, they must stop the repeat of a crime Regan had been accused f seven years before.


Notes for the reader: A great mystery! No violence (only referred to from the past), no murder. ( )