Picture a spirited American storyteller galloping through the thrilling world of horse racing mysteries—meet Sasscer Hill! Born in Washington, DC, this bestselling author weaves her lifelong love for horses into gripping tales of romance, thriller, and mystery. With her debut novel, Full Mortality, Hill launched the Nikki Latrelle Racing Mystery series, earning an Agatha Award nomination and drawing comparisons to the legendary Dick Francis. Her unique blend of equestrian expertise and page-turning storytelling has made her a standout in the niche horse racing mystery genre.
From racetracks to novels, Hill’s journey is as captivating as her stories. Her insider knowledge of the horse racing world—gained through decades as a breeder, trainer, and amateur jockey—brings authenticity to every plot twist. Whether you’re a mystery buff or a horse lover, Hill’s fast-paced narratives are sure to hook you!
The Making of Sasscer Hill
Linda 'Sasscer' Hill’s passion for horses runs deep, tracing back to her ancestor Samuel Ogle, a colonial Maryland governor who introduced horse racing to North America. Growing up, Hill was sneaking rides on Belgian plow horses by age seven, despite her father’s belief that ponies were dangerous. Her equestrian journey took off under the mentorship of Alfred H. Smith Sr., a wealthy horseman who introduced her to steeplechase racing. Hill became an amateur jockey, racing at hunt clubs across Maryland and Virginia, and later bred Thoroughbreds, including the successful colt For Love And Honor.
Her writing career began later in life, fueled by a lifelong love for reading and storytelling. After battling lymphoma, Hill channeled her resilience into crafting mysteries that reflect the high-stakes world of horse racing. Her first published work, a short story called Game in 2007, laid the foundation for her Nikki Latrelle series, marking her as a fresh voice in the genre.
Sasscer Hill’s Unforgettable Stories
Hill’s novels are a thrilling mix of heart-pounding suspense, vivid characters, and the gritty glamour of the racetrack. Her debut, Full Mortality (2010), introduces Nikki Latrelle, a tough yet endearing jockey navigating murder and intrigue at Maryland’s Laurel Park. The novel’s authentic backdrop and twisty plot earned it nominations for both Agatha and Macavity Awards, captivating readers with its insider look at horse racing.
The Nikki Latrelle series continues with titles like Racing from Death (2012), where Nikki uncovers a deadly scheme involving a hidden meth lab, and Shooting Star (2021), which blends Hollywood glitz with racetrack danger. Hill’s 2020 standalone, Travels of Quinn, shifts gears to follow an Irish American gypsy Traveller escaping a life of crime, showcasing her versatility. Her Fia McKee series, starting with Flamingo Road (2017), won the Dr. Tony Ryan Award, cementing her reputation for crafting compelling, equine-infused mysteries.
Hill’s writing style is crisp and immersive, blending short, punchy sentences with rich descriptions of the racetrack’s sights and smells. Her themes of greed, courage, and redemption resonate with readers, while her strong female protagonists—like Nikki and Fia—bring heart and grit to every story. Fans of Dick Francis praise Hill for carrying the torch of horse racing fiction with her authentic, adrenaline-fueled narratives.
Why Sasscer Hill Matters
Sasscer Hill has carved out a unique niche in the mystery genre, bringing the exhilarating world of horse racing to life for readers worldwide. Her novels not only entertain but also shine a light on the beauty and risks of the sport, from the mistreatment of horses to the skullduggery behind big-money bets. Her awards and nominations—including Agatha, Macavity, and Dr. Tony Ryan—underscore her impact as a storyteller who blends passion with precision.
Beyond her books, Hill’s journey as a woman in the male-dominated worlds of racing and writing inspires aspiring authors and equestrians alike. Now living in Aiken, South Carolina, she continues to write, ride, and captivate audiences, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
- Born: Washington, DC
- Key Works: Full Mortality, Racing from Death, Shooting Star, Travels of Quinn, Flamingo Road
- Awards: Dr. Tony Ryan Award winner; Agatha, Macavity, Claymore, and Carrie McCray nominations
Ready to race into a thrilling mystery? Snag Full Mortality and dive into Sasscer Hill’s heart-pounding world of horse racing suspense!