Nasty horseplay at the Derby lands Rhineheart in a race against time to stop a murderous scheme … Michael Rhineheart is a Louisville private eye with a taste for bourbon and a nose for trouble. He's as tough and savvy as they come. His sleuthing secretary, Sally McGraw, is desperate to learn the ropes. Their pal Farnsworth is a crusty old pro who hasn't lost his touch. Together this hardboiled trio sets out to solve a mysterious disappearance at the racetrack. Soon they are galloping onto a trail of lust, greed, and murder … and enough dirty deeds to turn Kentucky's bluegrass red with shame.

All bets are off when it comes to kidnap, mayhem, and murder … When the "Grand Dame of Kentucky Racing" enlists private eye Michael Rhineheart to deliver the ransom for a kidnapped broodmare and her foal, Rhineheart thinks it will be a speedy transaction. But what should have been a simple mission turns into a deadly double-cross, and soon Rhineheart is on the hunt for the horses … and a ruthless killer. Fans of Dick Francis will love Birkett's hardboiled gumshoe and his Kentucky bluegrass flavor.