Goldwater Ridge

The Sadie and Clyde Adventures #1

by Hannah Kaye

The West is a Lawless Place

Arizona Territory, 1889

Billy Bob Clyde sets off West after receiving a cryptic message from his long-lost father. Although Clyde thinks Pa found the California gold he went searching for years ago, he also suspects Pa is in danger, and he’s determined to help.

But Clyde’s journey is waylaid in the ghost town of Cactus Poke when he gets arrested as a suspect in a recent robbery—the town’s claim to fame, a solid gold nugget known as the Goldwater Potato, has gone missing, and they think Clyde took it! Desperate to prove his innocence and get on to California, Clyde strikes a bargain for his freedom with the town’s crazy one-legged sheriff—if Clyde can recover the stolen Tater and track down the real thief, the notorious Outlaw Jack, the sheriff will let him go. Assisted by Sadie, a fearless young gunslinger with more than one trick up her sleeve, Clyde embarks on a mission to hunt down the gold nugget and clear his name.

But all is not as it seems in Cactus Poke…


-An Old West adventure for young readers-

Genres: Westerns, Historical Fiction, Childrens

209 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2020

About the author

Hannah Kaye is a professional daydreamer, homeschool mama, drama teacher, and lover of stories in all forms. She is the author of The Sadie and Clyde Adventures, a series of humorous and heartfelt Westerns for middle grade readers, and is also a contributing author in the faith-filled fantasy series A Classic Retold.

Her stories are largely inspired by her sisters, her Christian faith, and her passion for weaving Truth into fiction. When not spinning tales, Hannah enjoys being outside, especially near water, where she’s dabbled in kayaking, sailing, and SCUBA diving.

She lives in northeast Oklahoma with her nerdy husband, two young hobbits, a long-legged dog, and several aquariums of tropical fish. She can often be found lurking near a coffee pot, baking elaborate desserts, or playing jigs on the Irish tinwhistle in improbable locations.

You can connect with Hannah online at www.hannahkaye.blog or follow her on Instagram @hkayewrites.

Reviews

[Mary Herceg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I peeked at the first page of Goldwater Ridge after downloading it to my Kindle, and I was immediately hooked by the opening. I couldn’t stop reading--and then started laughing in delight and amusement! In fact, I laughed my way through the whole first page. From the first, I enjoyed the lively main character and his narrative voice. The entertaining, witty style continued the whole book, and I enjoyed it even more after the story got going at the end of the first chapter.

I loved the compelling protagonist, vivid characters, suspenseful plot, delightful relationships, laugh-out-loud humor, crazy events, bursts of action, solid themes, breathtaking setting, and hint of romance.

I’ve discovered that I enjoy entertaining Westerns, including middle-grade adventures. This one fits the bill exactly, and Goldwater Ridge strongly reminded me of two classic middle-grade novels I greatly enjoyed, both by the great author Sid Fleischman--a comparison that’s a high compliment, coming from me.

I love adventure novels, especially ones that are deep and thoughtful, and I’m always looking for good ones. The world needs more novels that qualify as straight adventure, with either no romance or romance as a subplot. I don’t know why it’s so hard to find books of that kind, especially for young adult and adult audiences. Thankfully, the middle-grade genre still provides adventure novels--but even there, it’s much harder to find a good one these days. I usually turn to classics written 50 years ago or more. I’m excited to find a new author who is writing timeless middle-grade novels for today’s audience!

Goldwater Ridge lives up to its genre as a good, solid adventure. I was quickly swept up in an engaging, intriguing adventure, reading on to find out what would happen and how the protagonist would handle one tricky situation after another. The story steadily moves ahead with plenty of mystery and suspense, and it delivers some explosive action scenes toward the end of the book. I read the second half of the book in a very short space of time, unable to put the book down as it got more intense. I enjoyed the plot twists, some of which I predicted and was delighted by, and some of which shocked me in a good way--but made sense in hindsight. Some of the events got a little bit crazy in an enjoyable way that was just right--really putting the “wild” in Wild West! I normally shy away from books that are too wacky or crazy, but this was the sort that was perfect for me. The ending was heartwarming and satisfying, and it wrapped the book up in just the right way.

I loved the protagonist, Clyde, from the first. He’s the best kind of 13-year-old boy. He’s lively, determined, witty, and energetic, boyish yet becoming manly, and doesn’t shy away from fighting for a good cause. He has a charismatic, winning, and down-to-earth personality that’s just plain fun and a little wild, and he has the guts and toughness needed to survive on his own in the rough land of the West. He feels real, like someone I know and would love being friends with. He strives to help people in need, especially ladies--though not with any thought of getting anything in return--and he has trouble understanding girls, even though he tries. He’s cheerful, good-natured, and upbeat, but doesn’t hesitate to let out some frustration and righteous anger in tough moments or when it’s called for. And he makes me laugh with his entertaining dialogue and narration.

And I loved the other characters too. Each character was complex, vivid, fascinating, and unique. Each of them leaped off the page, real and alive, something that takes great skill as an author. To talk about them at all means spoilers, so I won’t say much. But I absolutely loved the female lead, Sadie, and several of the adult male supporting characters: Sheriff, Duke, and Clyde’s dad. I was hoping so much that Clyde’s dad would show up, and of course he did--but I did not know what he’d be like, and I did not expect to adore him as much as I did. He completely won me over from the first moment he arrived on the page. Sheriff and Duke were both satisfying and endearing characters--intriguing and hard to figure out, but complex, compelling, and so very real. I loved their fierce, protective love for Sadie, too--especially Sheriff’s. And I loved both Sheriff’s honor and love of justice--and Duke’s roguish, enigmatic, secretive personality. I was so sad, even heartbroken, when something happened to each of them at different times--I won’t say what. But I’ll just say that if either of them were to leave or no longer be present, I’d be really, really sad--I won’t say if that happened, or what the reason was, but that’s a hint in itself. There were also several great antagonists, some of which involved twists, surprises, and mystery.

And Sadie! I loved Sadie. She’s such a spunky, fun girl, with just the right kind of fierce wildness and no-nonsense toughness, balanced by a dreamy, gentle femininity. She was the perfect spark and spice to complement steady Clyde as a partner in adventures and detective work, and they share each other’s sweetness, determination, wit, and cheerfulness.

Which brings me to the hint of romance I mentioned above. I’ll begin by saying that I loved it! And I normally can’t stand romance between preteens in fiction--or most fictional romances, period. I applaud the author for the sensible, balanced, wholesome way she handled the romance. I think the difference here is that instead of being foolish, it’s mature, age-appropriate, realistic, wholesome, sweet, and completely pure and innocent, and it’s not over-the-top, too rapid, or too intense. It’s very sensible and natural, and though it’s a major subplot that comes up often, and it’s definitely romantic, it’s also wholesome. Sure, they think about each other a lot, and share a few romantic moments, but they don’t go too far. Even in their thoughts, it stays pure, innocent, and sensible, not sappily romantic and extreme. It never made me roll my eyes, made me uncomfortable, or made me say, “Oh, come on,” all of which are common occurrences with me and any romance--preteen romance, for sure, but also between teens and adults. And I never felt it was unrealistic, another common thing with me. Both the characters and the relationship feel realistic--the characters act their age, both personally and in their interactions, and they relate to each other the way kids their age really would. I would venture to guess that in this case, it helps that the author is married and goes about her own relationship in the same healthy way in which she writes it, and that she also remembers what it was like to be the age of her middle-grade characters--something that’s essential for good MG. Clyde and Sadie also respect each other and support each other, something that’s so important in any relationship. Clyde doesn’t give way to feelings without first being sure he’s committed to looking out for Sadie and being a man in the way he goes about it--even though he’s 13 and doesn’t seem older or younger than his age, and even though he doesn’t take things too far or too fast, or even consider getting serious prematurely. Clyde and Sadie let things develop naturally, at their own pace. I’m usually not a fan of epilogues that show a couple’s future relationship, without showing me how the characters progressed to that point, but I loved it, in this case! It was handled so well, unlike many endings that get on my nerves. It was such a sweet, satisfying ending, showing how comfortable and steady their relationship remained.

I’m hard pressed to find anything I didn’t like about this book. I did have a few quibbles, but they were small, and they did not take away one bit from my enjoyment or my star rating. I tend to dislike coincidences in books, especially when they’re a major part of the plot. But a good book can suspend my disbelief, and I enjoyed this one so much that I didn’t mind the two major coincidences. Some of the backstories seemed a bit elaborate and unrealistic, but I was happy once it all became plot-relevant.

I was hesitant to try a debut author I’d never read before, because of course I couldn’t know whether the book was good or well-written. But I needn’t have worried! Though this is her first published book, author Hannah Kaye writes with excellence and experience. Goldwater Ridge was skillfully written from the first, all the way through, and it’s well-edited, too. The writing style was lively and fun, and Clyde’s narrative voice fit his personality so well. He keeps his upbeat mood through the craziest happenings, even ones that seem hopeless. His response to crazy events, impossible puzzles, and danger, peril, or near-death, is to think and talk about it in his usual lively, humorous, upbeat way--even and especially when he’s at the end of his rope or totally confused. I love that, and I love all his jokes, and the way he wryly, sometimes grimly, but always good-naturedly, pokes fun at any situation or person.

I was reminded of some of my favorite stories while reading this book, which delighted me. Most of all, the book reminded me as a whole of two of Sid Fleischman’s fabulous books--Jingo Django and By the Great Horn Spoon. They’re 20th-century juvenile fiction, called classics because they deserve it, and they’re the very definition of quality middle-grade adventure novels. For me, they’re two of the books that set the standard for this genre--a standard of excellence that Goldwater Ridge lives up to. Goldwater Ridge is similar to both books in tone, humor, liveliness, good nature, energy, sweetness, characters, relationships, action, and most of all, in adventure. These three books are similar in setting, feel, and story, as well--small desert towns where unsavory characters go up against sheriffs, and mountainous wilderness where honest and not-so-honest adventurers search for coveted gold.

Goldwater Ridge also reminded me of a few movies, as well, in certain moments or aspects. All of these comparisons made me really happy, and it’s no small thing for me to compare this book to some of my favorite stories. The first page gave me a strong Newsies vibe, which reminded me of the Broadway musical in several elements--the young journalist with big dreams, and the promise of the untamed southwestern territory. Later in the book, I was again reminded of Newsies by the spunky female heroine and the element of theater. The small, fading desert town reminded me of Radiator Springs from the movie Cars, as did one particular moment when an indignant Clyde is forced to fix up the town when accused of a crime. And Clyde himself reminded me of Walter, the young protagonist of the film Secondhand Lions, with his good-natured, lively, determined personality.

I’m now a dedicated fan of Hannah Kaye, a wonderful debut author who is committed to writing quality novels for a middle-grade audience. I can’t wait to see her write more books, and I would jump at the chance to read more about the characters of Goldwater Ridge! I’m so glad I decided to take a gamble on an untested author, and I’m delighted to find such a quality book that fits my taste so well.

I can’t recommend Goldwater Ridge highly enough! It’s available on Amazon, so don’t wait to check it out and read it yourself! It will be enjoyed most by anyone who loves adventure novels, middle grade, Westerns, fun characters, sweetness and humor, entertaining writing, a touch of craziness and mystery, or just a satisfying, delightful story.

[Allison Tebo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before magic there was tall tales. When you’re a kid, ALL tales are a little tall. We’re unstoppable, we can do everything the adults do. There’s no inconvenient logic ruining our playtime. Our imaginations are completely uninhibited. That is precisely what Goldwater Ridge is. And yet, mixed in with its levity, is a heartfelt message that gives this high-flying adventure a down-to-earth kindliness, as if a friend has come to help you—and indeed it did.

I was having a bad day. I had retreated into a dark room to sob, overwhelmed with a cocktail of pain and unhappiness.

Suddenly, I remembered my friend Mary had gifted me the book of a friendly and funny lady on Instagram called Hannah Kaye.

I opened my Kindle and, within a few pages, I had managed to calm down. A chapter or so on, I was able to stop thinking about my situation and get swept up in the story. And what a story.

It’s rambunctious, rip-roaring, high falutin' tale full of large-than-life characters and one plot twist after another. The writing style made even the simplest thought hilarious—even the names in this book will make you smile.

Hannah Kaye has produced a book that is not only clean and wildly entertaining, it’s a jaunty fist shake at those who think only “gritty” fiction can change things.

I’ve had the pleasure of talking to Hannah about the desperate need (and eager market) for “light” fiction—a genre of jolliness that is often sneered upon.

But there are thousands of people right now who are crying in the dark. They don’t want or need more “realistic” fiction full of darkness and sorrow (reality has already wounded them enough). They need to escape. They need a sweet treat to help them swallow the pill. We know what real life is like—but we need a glimpse of happiness to get us through it.

So thank God for writers like Hannah, who give us gems like Goldwater Ridge, a grand little friend that will hook your elbow with a gentle howdy-do and lead you away from your trouble for a golden hour of laughter.

[Katja Labonté · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ stars & 6/10 hearts. I honestly don’t know if I can write a review worthy of this book. It is quite unique, extremely creative, and very enjoyable.

First off, the characters. I loved Clyde. He was hilarious—both in his internal monologue, his narrative, and his spoken dialogue. I was a little bewildered on how old he was, but probably on a reread I’ll catch it since I’ll be reading slower. I liked how he was a noble, self-sacrificing boy with good intentions and morals. Sadie was a bit of a puzzle. She was a tomboy, and very sassy, but somehow pulled it off without being over-the-top or unfeminine. And she was brilliant and hilarious. The Sheriff at first was rather dislikable, but I quickly became very fond of him and then downright loved him. Pa was awesome from top to bottom. The villains were terrifyingly villainy. And the horses had awesome personalities. Oh, and Herbert. I—loved—Herbert. If you know, you know. If you don’t, read the book, because you need to know. A stroke of pure genius on the author’s part, Herbert is.

The themes/messages/topics were mostly understated, and meant to be felt rather than explicitly said, but they were very good. I didn’t expect the strong message of what true love means, or the cost of duplicity. I also liked the theme of doing what’s right and not whining about it. And finally, the theme of hope rising from ashes and how much hope means was lovely.

The setting was fascinating. 1800s Wild West—standing on its head. Outlaws, very scary and yet hilariously stupid? Check—and don’t be a heathen, ya beanhead, add the name from the Bible.
A gun-totin’, rope-twirlin’, horse-riddin’ freckled miss with braids, a sharp tongue, and a clever brain? Check—with a theatre obsession and Shakespeare quotations in the bargain.
A noble, hardworking Sheriff? Check—and add an amputated limb and a gun made from a stick.
Western accent? Check—without its being irritating or overdone.
Hermits? Check. Excitement? Double check. Danger? Triple check. Plenty of mystery? Quadruple check. Tiny ghosted Western town? Check, check, check.
Mexican law enforcement officers? Check. A shady sheriff deputy? Check.
A young handsome main character who hates being alone in the dark, writes newspaper headlines in his head whenever he’s doing something noteworthy, and has a love/hate relationship with a rabbit? Check. Gunfight? Replaced with dynamite.

The writing style was brilliant. Light, easy, very modern, and yet somehow completely not jarring at all but perfectly in keeping with the story. And oh, my heart—was it ever hilarious??

The plot was oh-so-hooking and enthralling. I couldn’t bear to set the book down even for a second. And the closer we got to the finish line, the more suspenseful things got. The very last chapter was a huge cliffhanger and the epilogue almost killed me. (I am possible Hannah Kaye rubbed her hands and gave the stereotypical wicked cackle when she wrote that.)

Contentwise—honestly, as I read, I had basically no issues. I think there may have been a few euphemisms but I can’t remember for sure. The characters were very sarcastic and a little disrespectful but somehow it didn’t come across as disrespectful but as their own particular love language. Sadie & Clyde’s relationship seemed a little old for their age (they were 12 & 13?? but acted like they were 14 & 16, except a lot younger??? It’s hard to describe) but it was kinda sweet and cute and it was very clean. There may have been some touching (I think when she needed some comfort at one point), and I recall one hug, but it was totally clean.
The biggest issue for me was the part about a girl dressing as and pretending to be a man. (Being vague here because #spoilers.) Now, the deception part of it didn’t bother me. I get why she did it, I understand her motive and how pure it was—and she realized her mistake and apologized handsomely for it. However, the fact that she acted a man I consider is not appropriate. Still—it is handled pretty well and I personally am okay reading it. I would however be cautious handing it to a girl (especially an impressionable teen or preteen) without discussing that issue with her first.

Overall, it was a brilliant, hilarious, totally unique and creative story. I loved every minute of it, couldn’t tear myself away, laughed aloud, and am so eager to read more of the author’s works.

A Favourite Quote: “But this is wrong.... You’re controlling [him]. That’s not love. Real love is built on honesty and trust, and that goes both ways. How can you say you love someone you constantly lie to? You aren’t worthy of his trust, and what’s more, you don’t trust him. How do you even know he can’t handle the truth? Ever asked him? You assume he’s weak without giving him a chance.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: She looked like a cactus—battered for years by relentless sun and wind, but still standing sturdy and proud, if a little prickly.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “You know, Clyde, this can’t become a habit,” I mumbled to myself. I could just see the headlines now: LOCAL IDIOT PICKS UP EXPLOSIVES NOT ONCE, BUT TWICE IN ONE DAY.

[Laura Burkhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goldwater Ridge had me hooked from the first page! This is an action packed adventure complete with mystery, excitement, and humor that readers of all ages will enjoy.

The writing is descriptive and draws you into the story. As a classroom teacher, I would recommend this as a perfect class read aloud for middle grade students. I can see Goldwater Ridge having many applications for teaching figurative language, foreshadowing, and character development in an unforgettable and fun way.

The twists and turns, surprises and cliffhangers make it difficult to put this book down! While the author’s witty sense of humor had me laughing out loud at times, this book also hits home with themes such as family, bravery, and honesty. This page turner will be enjoyed both by those who love adventures of the Wild West and connoisseurs of Shakespeare—and everyone in between!

[Katie Hanna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was very clever and creatively written, but it kinda weirded me out.

I've always been unnerved by the type of book where "everyone wears a mask and you can't trust anyone," so Goldwater Ridge was never going to be my cup of tea. In addition, I tend to prefer fantasy stories, where you KNOW it's not the real world, than tall tales, where it's technically the real world but no "real-world rules" seem to apply. Does that make sense? *scratches head a bit*

[Belles Middle Grade Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I can now say I like, & might be on my way to being obsessed with MG westerns lol This was SO good! This was VERY atmospheric. I felt like I was in an old western. From the way they talk, to the way the story is told-so on point! The writing is gripping, entertaining, & superb. The humor is phenomenal as well! I laughed so hard so many times! Lol There are several twists in here, some I would have never saw coming-great twists at that. Such incredible characters too! They really grab at your heart, & you don’t want to leave them. So well written. Clyde is the cutest little thing, & Sadie is 1 of the most unique characters I’ve ever read. Absolutely loved her. Abraham & Hermit have my heart though lol So good! Such an intriguing story too. From Clyde & how his story starts, to Cactus Poke & it’s backstory, as well as the people who live there-including Sadie & her own story. This is full of the Wild West, adventure, mystery, danger, atmosphere, drama, friendship, family, humor, suspense, heart, & more. Big themes of trust I’d say, & also family-& family doesn’t always mean the 1 you were born into. Absolutely loved this, & I’m excited to start the sequel tonight! Amazing cover front & back by Elise Yeomans & some interior illustrations sprinkled throughout by Sarah Phillips as well!💜

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried*, it moved me, Billy Bob Clyde.

*Not really, but it was sweet

[Emily Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had to describe this book in just one word it would be FUN! Goldwater Ridge is a middle grade western that is full of surprises. This page-turning adventure is smart and funny and touches on the importance of friendships and family. This book is a great family read-a-loud. Both my 12-year-old daughter and I loved it.

[Sarah Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! Goldwater Ridge is a humorous, heart-warming story set in the Old West. Filled with wit, adventure, some very memorable characters, and more than one unexpected twist, this winsome and engaging book was a page-turner from start to finish!

The story is very enjoyably narrated by Clyde, a 13-year-old who has set off West to find his long-lost father. The author does a particularly great job with descriptive language in creating a vivid setting - the desert, the dusty town of Cactus Poke with all its oddities, the ridge… also the food! Seriously, the tantalizing descriptions of food made me want to put down the book more than once to go make bacon and coffee. It’s endearing and exciting all at once… a story that draws you in, and one that will stay with you long after the adrenaline-packed conclusion.

As a mom, I love how wholesome this book is. Goldwater Ridge has strong themes of honesty and integrity, family, forgiveness, and doing what is right even when it’s hard. If you are looking for a clean, adventurous, exciting story for your kids to get caught up in (or a read-aloud for the whole family for that matter!) this is a great find.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a rollicking story -- part old-fashioned western, part tall tale, part whodunit. Aimed at middle-grade readers, it's clean as a whistle. It has several twists I didn't see coming, is just far-fetched enough to qualify as a tall tale, and has a satisfying ended. I very much enjoyed it. I especially appreciated all the humor and the way all the characters could see the funny side of various situations. And I loved all the Shakespeare references!

Full disclosure: I received a free advance copy from the author. I did not agree to provide a positive review in return. All opinions here are my own.

[Annalissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A truly delightful read that kept me guessing at all times. I don't trust mysteries (err, that is, my imagination is a leetle to vivid to enjoy the aftermath of reading them), and dislike lame children's fiction, which was what I expected this book to consist of. I was quite surprised when I actually started it after procrastinating it for several weeks. The narrator was absolutely hilarious, and all the characters were supremely well done! I never expected any of the twists, but loved them all. Every character had me interested in them the moment they stepped on the page, and even after they stepped off. I do wish some of the characters were real so that we could see what had happened in their life!
The writing style, and everything really, was delightedly full. I would read this to my younger siblings, or let them read it without any problem. Definitely recommend this book!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free electronic copy of this book from the author so we had a chance to read it ahead of time and share with others what we thought! I actually got it for my 11 year old son to read because it sounded right up his alley. He loved it! He couldn't put it down. He said that he enjoyed it so much that he wished it was longer. He says that there was a plot twist that he really liked as well.
Happy reading!

[Julie McGlinchey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book aloud to my 12 and 9 year old boys. We couldn't wait each day for our reading time! This book was engaging and funny. It was unpredictable and kept us wanting more. We are hoping that a sequel will be written soon!

[Samantha Hanni · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun, summer read for middle grade readers! Highly recommend!

[Becca Wierwille · Rating 5 out of 5]

This middle-grade western is such a fun ride! I love the animated voice of Clyde's narration, and the twists and turns along the way always kept me guessing. Each chapter tends to end at that place where you just HAVE to keep reading. If you're looking for a fun story filled with secrets and surprises, this is a great read.

[Bridget Marshall]

RTC

[Faith Linehan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In high school I was a big reader, but once I got to college the love of reading was essentially beaten out of me. Needless to say, it takes a lot for me to finish a book these days. However, this book had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish! The young narrator of the story, Clyde, has a humorous and compelling voice as both you and he uncover the mysteries he encounters. Speaking of the main characters, they are each given room to reveal their motivations and back stories in a way that makes you feel like you are truly getting to know each of them personally. This, to me, makes the first-person narration style even more captivating and immersive. Now, oftentimes in first-person novels the stretches of exposition can feel clunky, on-the-nose, or lazy, HOWEVER, the exposition in this story is engaging, arises naturally from the situation the characters are in, and doesn't feel overused. Although this story is listed as a middle-grade novel, at 24 years old I found myself on the edge of my seat throughout the story! I was invested in the main characters and was as surprised as they were at all the twists and turns. I finished this book while at my in-laws' house and my sister-in-law couldn't contain her laughter at my facial expressions while reading the final chapters. In her author bio, Hannah Kaye says that the Chronicles of Narnia are some of her favorite books. The author of that series, C.S. Lewis, once said this about children's stories: "A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest." Based off of that statement, I would have to say that "Goldwater Ridge" is a very good children's story.

[Katie Gage · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Billy Bob Clyde stumbles upon the town of Goldwater, he doesn’t intend to become an outlaw, or to get wrapped up in a mystery, but he does. He meets enchanting Sadie, and together, they search for the fabled Goldwater Tater, and the scary Outlaw Jack (or is it California Jackson?). As Clyde learns, nothing is ever quite as it seems, and that holds true for most things in this book. Look closely, and don’t blink, or you’ll miss something!

I would describe Goldwater Ridge as a rollicking good time. There’s adventure, shining treasure, a beautiful girl, danger, Shakespeare quotes, loyal animals, conniving villains, and a happy ending. What more could you want from a middlegrade adventure novel? Every character has a secret, and every character has their own special flare. The setting is comfortably old west, and the descriptions take the reader right into a time long gone. But what makes this book really special is its cavorting, romping plot, from an author who clearly enjoys the story she is telling. Even the points of actual danger, while serious, still hold a spirit of joy and hope.

Goldwater Ridge is certainly fun and enjoyable. Some readers may be offset by the nothing-is-as-it-seems aspect; there were points even I found certain reveals startling. But remember—this is for 10-11 year olds, who do not ask for serious plots and angst. They simply want something enjoyable and fun, and I think this book answers the call perfectly.

I hope we see more of Sadie and Clyde. With their skill sets, so many adventures are sure to be had. Fans of John R. Erikson’s friendly western settings, or E. L. Konigsburg’s plot twists will certainly find this book enjoyable. It’s clean, it’s enjoyable, it has a heart. My rating: 5🌟

[Jessica Renwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Billy Bob Clyde gets lost in the desert searching for his father, he arrives in the strange town of Cactus Poke. In the middle of the Arizona desert, the town is on the brink of complete abandonment. The only people left are a welcoming cook, a quirky sheriff, his cantankerous deputy, and one ambitious girl. And now, the town's claim to fame, the Goldwater Tater (a gold nugget the size of a potato) has gone missing—and the sheriff is sure that Clyde is to blame!

Filled with old west fun, peculiar characters, and plot twists I didn't see coming; this book was a blast to dive into! I haven't read any westerns for a long time, and the author's middle-grade twist on the genre is so well done. Clyde is a lovable goof who just can't seem to catch a break. I was rooting for him the whole time! And I loved Sadie. The Shakespeare loving, adventurous, scheming girl is definitely my favourite character in the whole book. I also love Kaye's inclusion of animals with the horses and jack rabbit, and that they aren't just props but characters with names and personalities too.

Overall, this is a well-written adventure filled with exciting twists, turns, and western fun! I definitely recommend it and look forward to seeing what Hannah Kaye comes out with next.

**I was received an Advanced copy of this book from the author. My honest review is completely voluntary and opinions are my own.

[Erica Trobaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goldwater Ridge is a delightful, fast-paced adventure that kids and adults alike will enjoy! This middle grade novel is full of danger, mystery, humor, and colorful characters.

As the narrator, Clyde is endearing and relatable, fueling the story with his desire to find his father and become a hero while he's at it. Filled with other lovable characters, including Abraham the horse, every moment of this novel propels us forward to the thrilling and satisfying conclusion.

The writing is top-notch! Hannah Kaye does a fantastic job of showing us the beautiful landscape, crafting real characters, and creating witty dialogue that engages the reader. The story is wholesome and fun and teaches themes of love, forgiveness, and integrity.

Once you start reading, you won't want to put it down!

I received a free electronic copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and all opinions are honest and my own.

[Nikki Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! What a fun story. You get sucked into this awesome western setting from page one and immediately feel for our young MC, Clyde. His journey isn't an easy one and the characters you meet along the way are so fun and full of spunk. Even the horses have a personality!

My favorite part was the whole town of Cactus Poke. The details in the story are amazing--even down to the signage on the old shops. Hannah Kaye takes you into the Wild West and on a mystery that will leave you on the edge of the seat.

This is the perfect book to grab for your middle-grade reader, and even one that would make a perfect family read. I know it will find its place on our shelves as soon as it is released.

Definitely a five-star read that parents should be lining up to buy.

*I recieved a free ARC*

[Tana Frost · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and Funny.
My grandchildren loved Goldwater Ridge. It was a special treat to read aloud to them in the character voices of the old west. It was an adventure and a mystery. There were twists and turns, mistakes and consequences, challenges and opportunities. My audience included a 9 year old boy and his sisters aged 8, 10, and 12. They would enthusiastically recommend this book.

“I received a free electronic copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and all opinions are honest and my own.”

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free electronic ARC copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and all opinions are honest and my own.

This was a super fun middle grade read! There were outlaws, mysteries, and explosions all on the backdrop of the Wild West. Hannah Kaye outdid herself with her debut novel and I look forward to more work from this author. I particularly liked Sadie's character. She is smart, strong, and sassy and brings out the best in the protagonist, Clyde.

[WendyN · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute delight! Well-written, tightly plotted, good dialogue, and downright FUNNY. I taught middle school English for eight years and would have considered this novel for summer reading-high interest for both girls and boys. I received a free electronic copy from the author. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.

[Estelle Tudor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, I absolutely loved this story. It was jam-packed with heart and humour right from the first page. Kaye has created something wonderful, with a compelling well-put-together tale and lovable characters that will stay with you long after you have closed the book. I would love to visit Cactus Poke and solve a mystery of my own. Cannot wait to read more from this talented new author.

[Jennifer Doherty Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid young adult fiction with a saucy main character and a whole line up of outlaws to go along with him. There’s a magical twist, lots of dynamite and even some Shakespearean references. The build up to the mystery of Cactus Poke will keep readers engaged. Fun!

[Peter C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really fun read! Loved the thread of humor throughout the book. The twists were well done. Even when I thought I saw something coming, it was done so well it was still amusing and surprising. Well done!

[Hannah Willson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was written with youth readers in mind. But its a fun story full of twists that kept me on the edge of my seat and coming back for more! Highly recommend for kids and adults!