Okay I am far from the targeted audience for the story Bats, Bandits & Buggies - Ruby and Maude Adventure, Book Four by Nancy Oswald but I was unable to resist a book about a girl and her donkey. This historical story is wonderful with a precocious thirteen year old, Ruby who had more ideas and plans than anyone I know.

I do wish that I had read the previous story even though this middle grade novel read well enough on its own. This is because Ruby’s friend, Roy is a major character with references to past events happening. I would like to know more about those past events. Should a younger reader start at the beginning of the series? Not necessarily since they may enjoy this book then decide to search out the earlier stories too.

As for the writing style, it is clear with interesting details. The plot is interesting but not difficult to follow. Plus the characters two legged and four legged make this a winner. I hope to introduce this series to my grandchildren in paperback. Boys and girls would enjoy Bats, Bandits & Buggies. Kids love reading where the heroine is young, smart and willing to take the needed risks to save the day. Ruby is all that and more.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

This is a lovely and engaging book of historical fiction that's been set in Colorado Springs. Meet a very spunky Ruby with her two pet donkeys: Maude and her foal Willy. Ruby also has a cat with an interesting name. Ruby bumps into Roy, a friend from 'away'. They have some common interests and become partners in a business. Then uh-oh, they become entangled with a mysterious "Aunt Agnes" and an escapade that was a little more than they'd bargained for.

Pre and young teens are the most likely to love the suspense and action of the duo's secretive sleuthing. Ruby and Maude may not be strangers to some readers, especially when they lived in Criple Creek with her Pa. Visit them again in their new home base and find out what in the world bats, bandits and buggies have to do with the book's story.

I love that there is no foul language nor immoral content. There are also subtle lessons in good morals such as, telling the truth, and so on. I was well satisfied with this story and would feel very at ease allowing my child or grandchild (if I had any), to get lost in the narrative. This book gets a 5-Star standing ovation from me!

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy sent by Netgalley and the publisher.