Reviews of
The Abilene Kid

“Dominick Dalesandro is a middle school student with a fascination — no, an obsession — with the Old West. When his teacher assigns everyone to write an essay on the most influential person in their lives, Dominick doesn’t even have to think about it. He knows he will write about Lone Wolf Malone, the greatest sheriff that ever lived. His teacher isn’t very happy. Dominick goes to the public library where the librarian is a good friend and fellow Old West afficianado. She has found a rare book about Lone Wolf Malone, and before she puts it in the special collections, she lets Dominick read it. He takes it to the library basement, opens the book, and blows dust off the first page. The dust swirls around, and Lone Wolf Malone appears. He offers to take Dominick back in time to become Lone Wolf’s assistant. No Old-West-obsessed 12-year-old boy could resist.”

— Rosi Hollinbeck

“In Dead Man’s Hand, John V. Madormo crafts an exhilarating time-travel adventure where twelve-year-old Dominick Dalesandro, obsessed with the Old West, is transported to 1888 Abilene, Kansas. Under the mentorship of Sheriff Amos “Lone Wolf” Malone, Dominick, now known as Pete Moss, faces thrilling challenges, including gunfights, town secrets, and a daring rescue mission. As he strives to alter the sheriff’s tragic fate, Pete must navigate high-stakes decisions that could change history forever. This captivating middle-grade Western blends historical intrigue, action, and heartfelt moments, making it a must-read for fans of time travel and frontier tales. Ready for adventure? Then this is the book for you. Pick up your copy today and dive in!”

— DD Gott, Donadees Corner (5 Stars)

“John Madormo’s The Abilene Kid – Dead Man’s Hand is a rip-roaring blend of historical fiction and time-travel adventure, perfectly suited for children who enjoy the Wild West. Dominick, age twelve, wishing to be transported back to 1888 Abilene to be an apprentice to Sheriff Malone, is a powerful hook. The author brings out the grimness and dangers of the era, beautifully describing dusty backstreets, shoot-outs, and the ever present threat of violence.”

— Dee Williams, Discovery (4 Stars)

“My overall impression of the book is that it has an intriguing entry that blends adventure with Western time travel. Middle grade and young adult readers who are invested in reading Western stories and time travel adventures will enjoy this. Furthermore, teachers and librarians can find this to be a satisfying read, as it is perfect for discussing history and ethics.”

— Litpick Reviews (5 Stars)

“The first person narration flows nicely in page turning fashion. Young Pete Moss is a great character who despises the treatment of Native Americans but is also fascinated with his new life on Kansas Prairie in the 1800s. Pete learns to ride a horse and despite missing life at home, he learns to adapt to this very different time. Pete meets many new people as a sheriff in training, both young and old. Abby is the girl his age that he likes. She and her younger brother Tommy are kidnapped which becomes part of the tale’s focus. The mystery of the kidnapping will have you guessing throughout as to the guilty party.”

— Greg Pattridge – Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday

“My rating for Dead Man’s Hand by John V. Madormo is five stars. It’s the start of an excellent series by Mr. Madormo about a modern-day preteen traveling back in time to 1888 to help out Sheriff Amos Malone as a sheriff’s apprentice. I was having so much fun reading this book.”

— Baroness’ Book Trove (5 Stars)

“First let me say, I am a 66 year old woman, and I won this book, as part of Goodreads giveaways. Since I saw this was book two of a series I went to kindle and got the first book, so I would know what was going on. Yes I know this is meant for younger ones lol, but I read anything and everything, especially when it’s free. This book is full of fun, from start to finish. I love the time travel aspect which adds a nice touch. Would make an excellent gift for the little cowboy or cowgirl in your life. Don’t miss!”

— Vicki Holder (5 Stars) Amazon Reviewer

“Every so often, a book reminds me why I fell in love with reading. The Abilene Kid: Dead Man’s Hand is one of those books. It’s not just a story about time travel or the Wild West; it’s about belonging, legacy, and courage.”

— Jason Hale (Goodreads Reviewer)