What do you think?
Rate this book
The Gambler and The Orphans
The book tells the tale of a gambler, two orphans and a sweet mother who build a life for themselves filled with joy. A Mississippi riverboat gambler, Benjamin Tate, is thrust into a different life as he is forced to adopt two little boys, who have been horribly abused in an orphanage in St. Louis. He takes the boys out West, buys some land and builds a ranch where he raises horses. He meets the boys' school teacher and falls in love with her. He learns that she's a widow who has suffered terrible physical abuse from her late husband. One of the boys is kidnapped and Tate goes after the kidnappers and recovers his adopted son, who tells him, "I knew you were coming, Pa. I never had a single doubt. And I told that kidnapper you'd beat the 'dickens' out of him." The gambler finds out that love makes a difference in both children and horses. The orphans adopt a young horse named Sunny, which is a pet for the boys, but he's no race horse ... until one of the orphans gives him a little talking to, hugs him and gets in the saddle. Suddenly Sunny is transformed by the love of the orphans into a winning race horse. The family finally learns that Benjamin Tate was the best poker player ever on the Mississippi riverboats. Does he regret giving up that life and being a father to the orphans. Not for a single minute. It's another classic tale from R. O. Lane, author of classic westerns.
- GenresWesterns
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2018
595 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
October 3, 2018
I have been a follower of Mr. R. O. Lane for awhile, but I must admit that this is the greatest release ever for him. I have enjoyed each and everyone of his realeases, but the compassion and family-friendly episodes of this book is above and beyond what I excitement it was purchased. There is love, compassion, heartbreak and plenty of exciting adventures throughout the entire story. Everything leaves me with a tingling sensation that just seems to be so sensational?I cannot begin to describe.
Five stars is too diminutive for a book of magnitude, but it is what it is. I have no earthly idea how many novels I have read over the past twenty one months but none have ever consumed me the way The Gambler and The Orphans has. I was hooked immediately on Ben Tate as I ever was on the Ben Blue series, and that says it all.
Mr. Lane did an exceptional job with his extraordinary character selection and there was never a disappointing episode throughout the entire story. Too, I cannot praise his exceptionally well written storylines from beginning to end.
There are so many heartwarming adventures, that I cannot begin to describe them, and I was unable to set the book aside until I competed the entire story. I have read other books I declared to me a masterpiece, but to me, this one definitely is much more impressive than any of those. Too, this is also a family-friendly rendition that will definitely tug at your heartstrings.
This is a must read for everyone that owns a Kindle, or has access to a Library. YES! I, most definitely, recommend this sensational story to everyone, and if you don't read it, I can only say you will be the loser. Not just a great descriptive, and sensational story, but the warm feelings are overwhelming. Read it! You will like it!😂
Five stars is too diminutive for a book of magnitude, but it is what it is. I have no earthly idea how many novels I have read over the past twenty one months but none have ever consumed me the way The Gambler and The Orphans has. I was hooked immediately on Ben Tate as I ever was on the Ben Blue series, and that says it all.
Mr. Lane did an exceptional job with his extraordinary character selection and there was never a disappointing episode throughout the entire story. Too, I cannot praise his exceptionally well written storylines from beginning to end.
There are so many heartwarming adventures, that I cannot begin to describe them, and I was unable to set the book aside until I competed the entire story. I have read other books I declared to me a masterpiece, but to me, this one definitely is much more impressive than any of those. Too, this is also a family-friendly rendition that will definitely tug at your heartstrings.
This is a must read for everyone that owns a Kindle, or has access to a Library. YES! I, most definitely, recommend this sensational story to everyone, and if you don't read it, I can only say you will be the loser. Not just a great descriptive, and sensational story, but the warm feelings are overwhelming. Read it! You will like it!😂
April 8, 2018
SECOND CHANCES🎰🎲
A GREAT story of devotion, respect and a gambler who adopted two little orphaned boys. These little ones were abused and borderline starvation by the owner of an orphanage in St. Louis. There's respect and dignity extended to the Mescalero Apaches, who lived on a reservation in New Mexico, who helped "The Gambler" buy and train horses. These were racing horses, who ran all over New Mexico, winning every race they entered.
A wonderful story that will bring tears to your eyes. Respect for everyone regardless of their ethnicity will always win out. Sometimes it never wins but you give it a chance, it will...just a little faith which can be as small as a mustard seed. Again a wonderful wonderful story to read...🍀
A GREAT story of devotion, respect and a gambler who adopted two little orphaned boys. These little ones were abused and borderline starvation by the owner of an orphanage in St. Louis. There's respect and dignity extended to the Mescalero Apaches, who lived on a reservation in New Mexico, who helped "The Gambler" buy and train horses. These were racing horses, who ran all over New Mexico, winning every race they entered.
A wonderful story that will bring tears to your eyes. Respect for everyone regardless of their ethnicity will always win out. Sometimes it never wins but you give it a chance, it will...just a little faith which can be as small as a mustard seed. Again a wonderful wonderful story to read...🍀
August 3, 2019
At the time of this review, this book’s rating is 4.63. And that has to be fake!!!! There is no way! If this book is over 4 stars, then there are a lot of fake reviews on here.
The writing is terrible, and the plot, or “hero’s quest, is too easy. I wish I wouldn’t have wasted my time on this book.
The writing is terrible, and the plot, or “hero’s quest, is too easy. I wish I wouldn’t have wasted my time on this book.
September 18, 2018
Love cures all
Wholesome story, a gambler discovers. To late his sister has died, he must find his nephew. Uncovers the truth, the small boy badly beaten and abused. Orphanage caretaker mistreated all the children. The uncle put a end to the man's cruelty. Meanwhile, the gambler adopts two boys. Feeds, clothes and move out west. Provides a new life and growing ranch.
The boys are the apple of his eyes. Sets for schooling the youngsters. They meet a new school teacher and fall in love.
Soon after their married. Becoming a family of four. The boys have ma and pa, content with life with each other as a family.
Having adventures with troubles. This family has been blessed, most of all the love they share. Worth reading brings tears and joy. Continues till the children are grown. The boys have graduated, becoming attorney. Ma and Pa looking back, children asking the father. About not mentioning river boat gambling days. This ends on a riverboat and where the story starts.
Wholesome story, a gambler discovers. To late his sister has died, he must find his nephew. Uncovers the truth, the small boy badly beaten and abused. Orphanage caretaker mistreated all the children. The uncle put a end to the man's cruelty. Meanwhile, the gambler adopts two boys. Feeds, clothes and move out west. Provides a new life and growing ranch.
The boys are the apple of his eyes. Sets for schooling the youngsters. They meet a new school teacher and fall in love.
Soon after their married. Becoming a family of four. The boys have ma and pa, content with life with each other as a family.
Having adventures with troubles. This family has been blessed, most of all the love they share. Worth reading brings tears and joy. Continues till the children are grown. The boys have graduated, becoming attorney. Ma and Pa looking back, children asking the father. About not mentioning river boat gambling days. This ends on a riverboat and where the story starts.
July 2, 2020
Great book
I grew up enjoying western novels such as Louis L'amour, Zane Grey and a few others. I think anyone can write a book but it takes someone special who can write a memorable one. Like Riders of the Purple Sage or The Sacketts saga. Mr. Lane has a style reminiscent of this. Good books with kind but tough heroes, pretty heroines and of course villains. This reminded me a very small amount of Reilly's Luck by Louis L'amour. One other book of Mr Lanes made me sad because an animal dies. That's like the saying.... I don't care what else happens, don't let anything happen to the dog or horse. I realize life was hard but I most enjoy books that don't involve animals.
I grew up enjoying western novels such as Louis L'amour, Zane Grey and a few others. I think anyone can write a book but it takes someone special who can write a memorable one. Like Riders of the Purple Sage or The Sacketts saga. Mr. Lane has a style reminiscent of this. Good books with kind but tough heroes, pretty heroines and of course villains. This reminded me a very small amount of Reilly's Luck by Louis L'amour. One other book of Mr Lanes made me sad because an animal dies. That's like the saying.... I don't care what else happens, don't let anything happen to the dog or horse. I realize life was hard but I most enjoy books that don't involve animals.
April 24, 2018
Benjamin and Sophie
Benjamin was a Mississippi River gambler and a good one. He only cheated the cheaters. He gets a delayed letter from his sister telling him she was dying and asking him to care for her 5 year old son. Because of the delayed notifications Katie's son Wyatt was pit in an orphanage where all the children were starved and physically abused. Ben rescued Wyatt and his friend Simon and had the owner brought up on charges. He gives up gambling so he can legally adopt the boys and takes Wyatt and Simon West to find a new life. Good plot, characters, dialog, and action. Fans of CJ Petit will like his stories.
Benjamin was a Mississippi River gambler and a good one. He only cheated the cheaters. He gets a delayed letter from his sister telling him she was dying and asking him to care for her 5 year old son. Because of the delayed notifications Katie's son Wyatt was pit in an orphanage where all the children were starved and physically abused. Ben rescued Wyatt and his friend Simon and had the owner brought up on charges. He gives up gambling so he can legally adopt the boys and takes Wyatt and Simon West to find a new life. Good plot, characters, dialog, and action. Fans of CJ Petit will like his stories.
August 18, 2018
I’m An Professional Graphic Designer. Focus on Creating Eye Catching & Creative Book Cover Design. Also I do,
1. Kindle Formatting
2. Createspace Formatting.
My Aim Is Always To Provide a High Quality Work In a Timely Fashion And Making Sure Each And Every Client Is Satisfied With The Work I Provide.
Check it out! all my services here on #Fiverr
https://www.fiverr.com/printok
Kindle formatting #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/ce1833dd02
Createspace Formatting #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/400ab4a1e5
Design professional ebook cover #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/c4541f78a4
1. Kindle Formatting
2. Createspace Formatting.
My Aim Is Always To Provide a High Quality Work In a Timely Fashion And Making Sure Each And Every Client Is Satisfied With The Work I Provide.
Check it out! all my services here on #Fiverr
https://www.fiverr.com/printok
Kindle formatting #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/ce1833dd02
Createspace Formatting #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/400ab4a1e5
Design professional ebook cover #Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/s2/c4541f78a4
December 4, 2019
Benjamin Tate was a riverboat gambler until he learned that his sister had died and asked him to care for her son. Ben rescues the boy and his young friend from terrible abuse. He saw that the owner and abuse of orphan boys was imprisoned. He then takes his young sons and moves to a large tract of land where he meets Sophia, the boys teacher who was a widow recovering from abuse. They become a family and she teaches the boys who advance rapidly. Ben works with an Arapaho who becomes a good friend as they raise race horses that win races across the state. The boys serve as jockeys for a horse that they had raised that later became a champion.
It was a western romance at it's best. There was love, respect, diversity and honor throughout the story.
I enjoyed it very much would recommend it to anyone.
It was a western romance at it's best. There was love, respect, diversity and honor throughout the story.
I enjoyed it very much would recommend it to anyone.
November 8, 2022
A really Great Feel Good Western
Reg Quist is one of my favorite Western authors. I've read all his books - his historical fiction and his contemporary westerns.
Mr. Quist's book bears the label of a Christian Western, but it is not overtly Religious. I don't think I remember any references to churches, Bibles, Ministers, or Doctrines except when Tate found a minister to get married.
I would rate this PG-13. There is no language or intimate bedroom scenes. It's a western so there are shoot outs, fights, and deaths.
I recommend this book!
(Read with Kindle Unlimited Subscription.)
Reg Quist is one of my favorite Western authors. I've read all his books - his historical fiction and his contemporary westerns.
Mr. Quist's book bears the label of a Christian Western, but it is not overtly Religious. I don't think I remember any references to churches, Bibles, Ministers, or Doctrines except when Tate found a minister to get married.
I would rate this PG-13. There is no language or intimate bedroom scenes. It's a western so there are shoot outs, fights, and deaths.
I recommend this book!
(Read with Kindle Unlimited Subscription.)
July 12, 2025
5 STARS, RIVETING WESTERN ROMANCE DRAMA
R. O. Lane shines with all 5 STARS in this extraordinary interesting & poignant storyline with lots of human emotions & character. Further the actual characters he has interacting are a variety of those that could be found in those days.
His Gambler, Ben, had a huge sense of right & wrong like most of this writer's main characters. They don't just concern themselves with the law because in the end they all seek justice.
Wonderful storyline with lots of action, horse racing, & shoot-em-up action packed into it. A really exciting joy to read.
One of this writer's best. RECOMMENDED
R. O. Lane shines with all 5 STARS in this extraordinary interesting & poignant storyline with lots of human emotions & character. Further the actual characters he has interacting are a variety of those that could be found in those days.
His Gambler, Ben, had a huge sense of right & wrong like most of this writer's main characters. They don't just concern themselves with the law because in the end they all seek justice.
Wonderful storyline with lots of action, horse racing, & shoot-em-up action packed into it. A really exciting joy to read.
One of this writer's best. RECOMMENDED
August 7, 2018
A New West to Far West Western/Riverboat Gambler/Horse Rancher/Husband and Father
RIO has penned a family western from beginning to end. The Gambler discovers he has Nephew in the St Louis orphanage. He rescued his nephew and another young boy and he becomes their Pa. A school Mark crossed their path and marriage is quick to follow. The family starts a horse ranch with Indian trainers. Four girls are born into the family and the family one and all attend the graduation of the two boys from the University of Texas Law School. This is an excellent read for the genre......ER
RIO has penned a family western from beginning to end. The Gambler discovers he has Nephew in the St Louis orphanage. He rescued his nephew and another young boy and he becomes their Pa. A school Mark crossed their path and marriage is quick to follow. The family starts a horse ranch with Indian trainers. Four girls are born into the family and the family one and all attend the graduation of the two boys from the University of Texas Law School. This is an excellent read for the genre......ER
February 7, 2020
Great book,
I grew up in the shadow of an orphanage. Many of my friends lived there. It was a great place for what it was. Some of the kids came in with little to no hope. Many of them left, and made a good life for themselves. This place was not typical of orphanages of the 40’s, 50’s and beyond. Sadly, history is ripe with child labor and abuse. This story reminded me that kindness and genuine care for your fellow man, makes all the difference. Thanks for the reminder! Good western too!
I grew up in the shadow of an orphanage. Many of my friends lived there. It was a great place for what it was. Some of the kids came in with little to no hope. Many of them left, and made a good life for themselves. This place was not typical of orphanages of the 40’s, 50’s and beyond. Sadly, history is ripe with child labor and abuse. This story reminded me that kindness and genuine care for your fellow man, makes all the difference. Thanks for the reminder! Good western too!
September 13, 2018
Perhaps the most beautiful book that I have ever read!
Dear Mr. Lane, Your books only get better the more of them that I read. This Book; "The Gambler and the Orphans", did it ALL for me. I guess it's because the story line fit pretty close with my youth. And then you developed a perfect life for a loving family, regardless of the trails and tribulations that this family faced. I Loved This Book. Thank You...... Ed Gettler
Dear Mr. Lane, Your books only get better the more of them that I read. This Book; "The Gambler and the Orphans", did it ALL for me. I guess it's because the story line fit pretty close with my youth. And then you developed a perfect life for a loving family, regardless of the trails and tribulations that this family faced. I Loved This Book. Thank You...... Ed Gettler
June 12, 2020
The reason I have this book five stars.....there wasn't six.
Every man and woman who ever started a family were gamblers. They were getting on each other to stick it out with them to make a go of it. Let's face it marriage is a real deal, if you put two mules together pulling a wagon and one mile keeps pulling to the right instead of straight that other mule is gonna be plum wore out at the end of the day. This story was beautiful, a real winner. Thanks Mr. Lane.
Every man and woman who ever started a family were gamblers. They were getting on each other to stick it out with them to make a go of it. Let's face it marriage is a real deal, if you put two mules together pulling a wagon and one mile keeps pulling to the right instead of straight that other mule is gonna be plum wore out at the end of the day. This story was beautiful, a real winner. Thanks Mr. Lane.
January 24, 2024
Gamble on love
Sophie, a lovely young lady who only wanted to be loved but was abused instead; Wyatt and Simon, two little boys who needed love but only received abuse; mix the three and have them held together by the glue that was Ben Tate and you wind up with a family built strong by love. Good read with some good adventures and lessons on how to get along with those around you.
Sophie, a lovely young lady who only wanted to be loved but was abused instead; Wyatt and Simon, two little boys who needed love but only received abuse; mix the three and have them held together by the glue that was Ben Tate and you wind up with a family built strong by love. Good read with some good adventures and lessons on how to get along with those around you.
June 1, 2018
A great read
A slightly different twist on this western novel. A riverboat gambler who quits a very lucrative way of life to adopt two horribly abused little boys and, later, marries an equally abused woman. A heart lifting story well told. If you like uplifting stories that still abound in action, you'll love this book!
A slightly different twist on this western novel. A riverboat gambler who quits a very lucrative way of life to adopt two horribly abused little boys and, later, marries an equally abused woman. A heart lifting story well told. If you like uplifting stories that still abound in action, you'll love this book!
June 10, 2018
Making Changes
When a gambler learns that his sister died and his nephew is in an orphanage, he investigates and learns that the children there are being severely abused. This is a great read revealing what happened to those operating the orphanage, the orphans and the gambler. There is plenty of action and suspense from beginning to the end. I highly recommend this author.
When a gambler learns that his sister died and his nephew is in an orphanage, he investigates and learns that the children there are being severely abused. This is a great read revealing what happened to those operating the orphanage, the orphans and the gambler. There is plenty of action and suspense from beginning to the end. I highly recommend this author.
June 10, 2018
Great story.
First, any author that writes an epilogue has my following. The generosity and caring that Ben exhibited is a fine example for all of us. He healed Sophie, Wyat and Simons hearts and souls. They had been abused annd neglected but he gave them a new life. Full of love and privilege.'
First, any author that writes an epilogue has my following. The generosity and caring that Ben exhibited is a fine example for all of us. He healed Sophie, Wyat and Simons hearts and souls. They had been abused annd neglected but he gave them a new life. Full of love and privilege.'
August 23, 2018
Is Life But a Gamble
This another fine read by R. O. Lane and I've enjoyed it very much. It is an account of the honor and honesty of the men and women that made America the Greatest Nation on earth! I hope that this book will inspire other to follow in the footsteps of these characters.
This another fine read by R. O. Lane and I've enjoyed it very much. It is an account of the honor and honesty of the men and women that made America the Greatest Nation on earth! I hope that this book will inspire other to follow in the footsteps of these characters.
September 4, 2018
The Gambler and The Orphans.
This was another truly great book till with lots of action and suspense throughout the storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed the great love story. Like all of your other dozen great books that I have read each and everyone is a five star rating. I highly recommend all of your books to your readers.
This was another truly great book till with lots of action and suspense throughout the storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed the great love story. Like all of your other dozen great books that I have read each and everyone is a five star rating. I highly recommend all of your books to your readers.
July 4, 2019
Great read
I have read several of r o lane’s books and the just get more enjoyable the more of them I read he don’t kill the main characters , only the bad ones and I enjoy the gun descriptions, horses, and the goodness of the main characters. Just each book is a pleasant enjoyable read
I have read several of r o lane’s books and the just get more enjoyable the more of them I read he don’t kill the main characters , only the bad ones and I enjoy the gun descriptions, horses, and the goodness of the main characters. Just each book is a pleasant enjoyable read
May 25, 2020
Family
I haven't kept track of the number of novels by the author I've read, but it seems like the last 3 or 4 have had a family theme. Ben Tate adopting his nephew and his little friend from the orphanage is the main theme of the book. It makes a great book. The author's books haven't disappointed me yet and now off I go to buy another.
I haven't kept track of the number of novels by the author I've read, but it seems like the last 3 or 4 have had a family theme. Ben Tate adopting his nephew and his little friend from the orphanage is the main theme of the book. It makes a great book. The author's books haven't disappointed me yet and now off I go to buy another.
August 28, 2020
Mississippi Riverboat Gambler wins for life!
Another RO Lane work on the late 1800’s. The best poker player on the river turns his life around after receiving a letter from his late sister asking him to take her young son and raise him. Thus begins the heartwarming tale of the Tate’s. Don’t miss this one for adventure, suspense and romance in the old west.
Another RO Lane work on the late 1800’s. The best poker player on the river turns his life around after receiving a letter from his late sister asking him to take her young son and raise him. Thus begins the heartwarming tale of the Tate’s. Don’t miss this one for adventure, suspense and romance in the old west.
August 26, 2021
The Gambler and the family he loved and the horses he raised to become great winner's. I enjoyed the book very much, this is only the second book I've read of R O LANE AND REALLY ENJK
Enjoy his work.. They are full of love and kindndss but not sex that is what I enjoyed the most.
Enjoy his work.. They are full of love and kindndss but not sex that is what I enjoyed the most.
February 27, 2022
50/50 Chance
The story started really interestingly as we learned about our gambler learning from one of the greatest. When two orphans were brought into the story, I never thought the gambler could give up his successful career, but he did, gladly, for love. This story didn't just bring me tears at the end, bud all through
The story started really interestingly as we learned about our gambler learning from one of the greatest. When two orphans were brought into the story, I never thought the gambler could give up his successful career, but he did, gladly, for love. This story didn't just bring me tears at the end, bud all through
December 3, 2022
Wonderful read
Ben Tate arrives in St. Louis to find a letter from his deceased sister. He finally d's his nephew, beaten in a orphanage. This is the beginning of his family and the horse ranch of champion quarter horse racers. This story is full of action, tragedy, love, and a happy ending. Highly recommended.
Ben Tate arrives in St. Louis to find a letter from his deceased sister. He finally d's his nephew, beaten in a orphanage. This is the beginning of his family and the horse ranch of champion quarter horse racers. This story is full of action, tragedy, love, and a happy ending. Highly recommended.
April 6, 2023
Fantastic book.
I have read this book about 3 or 4 times . I never get tired of good
stories.
I think this is one of my favorites from this writer. I have reread several of his books. Enjoyed them all over each time I read them.
I am always looking forward to his next book.
I have read this book about 3 or 4 times . I never get tired of good
stories.
I think this is one of my favorites from this writer. I have reread several of his books. Enjoyed them all over each time I read them.
I am always looking forward to his next book.
October 22, 2023
A gambler who won it all.
This is a so wonderful adventure about a man who gambled on a new life with two boys who sought new lives with him and found their Ma to boot.
It deals with the humanity of prejudice and looking not beyond it, but into the lives of different people and enjoying and adopting those differences.
This is a so wonderful adventure about a man who gambled on a new life with two boys who sought new lives with him and found their Ma to boot.
It deals with the humanity of prejudice and looking not beyond it, but into the lives of different people and enjoying and adopting those differences.
December 7, 2024
Love
Ben was an excellent believer in stick to etness! Being a gambler he had a good eye and quick wit! When he took chances he was already ahead in the battle and won hands down! Chapel and his 2 jockeys and his horses gave him pleasure but the schoolteacher was the perfect winning hand!
Don Sinquefield
Wylie ,TX 75098
Ben was an excellent believer in stick to etness! Being a gambler he had a good eye and quick wit! When he took chances he was already ahead in the battle and won hands down! Chapel and his 2 jockeys and his horses gave him pleasure but the schoolteacher was the perfect winning hand!
Don Sinquefield
Wylie ,TX 75098
April 22, 2018
Enjoyable read
This was an joy to read. Such a life message. I am formulating a talk with my 9 year old grandson right now. He has great potential that I think is being let go to waste. Thank you R. O. Lane for the inspiration.
This was an joy to read. Such a life message. I am formulating a talk with my 9 year old grandson right now. He has great potential that I think is being let go to waste. Thank you R. O. Lane for the inspiration.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews