Step into the cozy, adventurous world of Maxie and Stretch, where a spirited 60-something widow and her pint-sized dachshund roam the open roads in a Winnebago, unraveling mysteries with heart and humor! Penned by Sue Henry, the Maxie and Stretch series is a delightful spin-off from her acclaimed Alaska Mysteries, blending cozy mystery charm with vivid travelogue vibes. Set against the stunning backdrop of Alaska and beyond, this four-book series captures the thrill of exploration and the warmth of companionship, making it a hidden gem for mystery lovers.
Maxie McNabb, a fearless retiree, and her loyal mini-dachshund, Stretch, embody the spirit of adventure. Whether navigating treacherous clues or cozying up in their RV, their journey offers readers a refreshing take on the amateur sleuth genre, proving that age is just a number when it comes to solving crimes.
How Maxie and Stretch Began
Sue Henry, a celebrated Alaskan author, introduced Maxie McNabb in her 2001 novel Dead North, part of the Alex Jensen and Jessie Arnold series. Fans adored Maxie’s spunky charm, prompting Henry to launch the Maxie and Stretch series in 2004 with The Serpents Trail. Inspired by her own love for Alaska’s vast landscapes, Henry even bought an RV to research the Alaskan Highway, ensuring her stories brimmed with authentic detail. Her goal? To craft a cozy mystery series celebrating independence, curiosity, and the joy of the journey.
The Heart of Maxie and Stretch
The series kicks off with The Serpents Trail (2004), where Maxie travels to Colorado to aid a dying friend, only to uncover a burglary and a web of secrets. In The Tooth of Time (2006), Maxie and Stretch explore Taos, New Mexico, diving into a mystery tied to a woman’s suspicious death. The Refuge (2007) takes Maxie to Hawaii—sans Stretch due to quarantine rules—to help a friend amidst prowlers and sabotage. Finally, The End of the Road (2009) sees Maxie in Homer, Alaska, investigating a drifter’s death that’s more than it seems.
Themes of independence, loyalty, and resilience shine through Maxie’s adventures. Henry’s vivid descriptions of settings—from Alaska’s icy highways to Hawaii’s lush islands—turn each book into a travelogue as much as a mystery. The cozy tone, paired with Stretch’s adorable antics, keeps the stakes light yet engaging, appealing to readers who crave suspense without gore. Maxie’s resourcefulness, often armed with a hidden shotgun, adds a dash of grit to her grandmotherly charm.
Why Maxie and Stretch Resonates
The Maxie and Stretch series carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by centering an older, independent woman—a rarity in detective fiction. Fans praise Henry’s knack for blending Alaskan lore and cultural tidbits, making each setting a character in its own right. Though the series ended in 2009, its heartfelt storytelling and Maxie’s relatable spirit continue to charm readers, especially those drawn to stories of second acts and furry sidekicks. Henry’s passing in 2020 left fans mourning the series’ end, but her legacy endures through Maxie’s timeless adventures.
- Publication Years: 2004–2009
- Number of Books: 4
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
- Setting: Alaska, Colorado, New Mexico, Hawaii
Grab The Serpents Trail and hit the road with Maxie and Stretch for a cozy mystery adventure filled with heart, humor, and a trusty dachshund by your side!