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Just a Kid
It's a Wild West story, but it's also a love story. A young man, Cole Flynn, just 14 years old, rides into trouble when he stops at a ranch just outside Las Vegas, New Mexico, the meanest, wildest town in the Territory. He stops to ask for some water for himself and his animals and meets a young widow who's cattle are being stolen by a gang of outlaws. Cole decides to help her and takes on the toughest gang in the land. He kills one in a fair gunfight, and the Purvis gang comes after him, repeatedly trying to kill him. At one point, they kidnap the young widow, and Cole ups the stakes and dynamites the saloon owned by the gang's leader. He frees the widow and they ride off to make a life for themselves, but John Purvis, the gang's leader is vengeful. He repeatedly sends men to kill Cole, who has to be on constant alert or face his own demise.
- GenresWesterns
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2018
724 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
September 1, 2018
One of the most heartwarming adventure story I have ever read. There is plenty exciting gunplay throughout the entire story to satisfy the most demanding reader. I was definitely impressed with the author's exceptional knowledge of the areas involved, as well as his quick witty statements that were perfectly descriptive of each and every situation. Action beyond belief.
No problem awarding five stars to this descriptive masterpiece of our true old western adventures. I have been a satisfied follower if R. O. Lane and the many great westerns penned over time.
This is a very wholesome, and heartwarming, story that is easy to follow. There is plenty of of action, including unlimited numbers of exciting gunplay. I was definitely impressed with the selection of all characters, good and bad, as they displayed their talents so very convincingly.
Too, the author did an exceptional job with his extraordinary storylines from beginning to end. I could not put the book aside, once they began their entertaining dialogue. There is never a dull moment throughout the entire story and the excitement never ceases, once the happenings begin.
I, without hesitation, recommend this story to anyone seeking excitement, romance, and plenty of entertaining gunfighting. Even with the ongoing gunfights, this story is a family-friendly story that will definitely touch your heartstrings. Do not miss the opportunity to read this book, or the loss will definitely be yours!
No problem awarding five stars to this descriptive masterpiece of our true old western adventures. I have been a satisfied follower if R. O. Lane and the many great westerns penned over time.
This is a very wholesome, and heartwarming, story that is easy to follow. There is plenty of of action, including unlimited numbers of exciting gunplay. I was definitely impressed with the selection of all characters, good and bad, as they displayed their talents so very convincingly.
Too, the author did an exceptional job with his extraordinary storylines from beginning to end. I could not put the book aside, once they began their entertaining dialogue. There is never a dull moment throughout the entire story and the excitement never ceases, once the happenings begin.
I, without hesitation, recommend this story to anyone seeking excitement, romance, and plenty of entertaining gunfighting. Even with the ongoing gunfights, this story is a family-friendly story that will definitely touch your heartstrings. Do not miss the opportunity to read this book, or the loss will definitely be yours!
March 22, 2018
JUST A KID: A Western
This is the first book that I've read by R O Lane, but I think I may really 👍like his style. It reminds me a lot of Lou Bradshaw and C.J. Petit. They can pack a lot of action with a very tight story line, throw in a smattering of a good romance and you have the best western right at your finger tips. Keep doing what you're doing and I'll keep real my what you put out there. BRAVO!!!!!
This is the first book that I've read by R O Lane, but I think I may really 👍like his style. It reminds me a lot of Lou Bradshaw and C.J. Petit. They can pack a lot of action with a very tight story line, throw in a smattering of a good romance and you have the best western right at your finger tips. Keep doing what you're doing and I'll keep real my what you put out there. BRAVO!!!!!
July 14, 2025
5 STARS, ONE OF HIS BEST WESTERN DRAMAS
5 STARS plus to R.O. Lane for this enthralling storyline about a boy who left North Georgia with his Civil War Veteran Father headed west. Unfortunately for him he was just 14 on the wild land of Texas when due to a freak accident or probably common one in those days his pa was injured & died. Cole was left all alone without anyone & had that profound realization after he buried his pa. He had been taught at a very young age how to use weapons, hunt & dress his kills, & care for his horses. Cole could do nothing but continue on towards the west.
They were traveling to Colorado so he kept going that direction until he stopped in New Mexico at a ranch for a drink of water and to water his horses. There was a young woman there who was a 17 years old widow whose husband had been killed & cattle were being rustled, she invited him to stop for supper & sleep the night in the barn. Unfortunately trouble erupted before they could finish eating.
That helplessness spoke to the fair minded Cole & made him think back to his ma & pa. Cole couldn't help himself from helping the pretty green eyed young woman. And I could not keep from reading this terrific book.
This is a full action packed with shoot-em-up activity, good & bad guys, shoot outs, & other old west daily life descriptions. Great characters that the reader can love & some to yell at & hate, plus be pleased they get their comeuppance.
I enjoyed this read & will revisit it down the road if I get the chance. RECOMMENDED
5 STARS plus to R.O. Lane for this enthralling storyline about a boy who left North Georgia with his Civil War Veteran Father headed west. Unfortunately for him he was just 14 on the wild land of Texas when due to a freak accident or probably common one in those days his pa was injured & died. Cole was left all alone without anyone & had that profound realization after he buried his pa. He had been taught at a very young age how to use weapons, hunt & dress his kills, & care for his horses. Cole could do nothing but continue on towards the west.
They were traveling to Colorado so he kept going that direction until he stopped in New Mexico at a ranch for a drink of water and to water his horses. There was a young woman there who was a 17 years old widow whose husband had been killed & cattle were being rustled, she invited him to stop for supper & sleep the night in the barn. Unfortunately trouble erupted before they could finish eating.
That helplessness spoke to the fair minded Cole & made him think back to his ma & pa. Cole couldn't help himself from helping the pretty green eyed young woman. And I could not keep from reading this terrific book.
This is a full action packed with shoot-em-up activity, good & bad guys, shoot outs, & other old west daily life descriptions. Great characters that the reader can love & some to yell at & hate, plus be pleased they get their comeuppance.
I enjoyed this read & will revisit it down the road if I get the chance. RECOMMENDED
May 13, 2018
COLE FLYNN JUST A KID
A young fourteen year old boy, Cole Flynn just buried his father after the horse he was riding stepped in a gopher hole and his father jumped free from the horse, but as the horse fell back on top of him leaving him with crushing injuries, which he succumbed from. How saddened he felt all alone, no one to turn to for help, he's at the mercy of whatever he has to face. Growing up in the west was hard hard you either made the best of your circumstances or you would die by the hands of men or nature would chew you up and spit you out. This author's books are tell you and he explains the situations that these settlers faced everyday trying to keep a roof and food on the table, nothing exotic, but your basics, such cornbread, fry bread, squirrels, venison, fatback and whatever vegetables homegrown or foraging in the forests. The young women had no freedom of choice, every and any jobs were few and far between. The job choices were working in bordellos, teaching, possibly working as a clerk in a dry goods store or possibly a bank tellers like I said scarce as a hen with teeth. I hope R. O. Lane will release more adventures of U. S. Marshal Will Fain and Cole Flynn, horse rancher/breeder.
A young fourteen year old boy, Cole Flynn just buried his father after the horse he was riding stepped in a gopher hole and his father jumped free from the horse, but as the horse fell back on top of him leaving him with crushing injuries, which he succumbed from. How saddened he felt all alone, no one to turn to for help, he's at the mercy of whatever he has to face. Growing up in the west was hard hard you either made the best of your circumstances or you would die by the hands of men or nature would chew you up and spit you out. This author's books are tell you and he explains the situations that these settlers faced everyday trying to keep a roof and food on the table, nothing exotic, but your basics, such cornbread, fry bread, squirrels, venison, fatback and whatever vegetables homegrown or foraging in the forests. The young women had no freedom of choice, every and any jobs were few and far between. The job choices were working in bordellos, teaching, possibly working as a clerk in a dry goods store or possibly a bank tellers like I said scarce as a hen with teeth. I hope R. O. Lane will release more adventures of U. S. Marshal Will Fain and Cole Flynn, horse rancher/breeder.
August 13, 2020
Just a Kid
Cole Flynn is 14 when his father is killed in a riding accident. Life is hard in the old West but Cole has been taught well by his father to shoot straight and work hard. Cole knows he won't stand a chance all alone unless he's smart and brave. He happens upon a young widow who needs his help and he decides to stay and help her save her ranch. From the get go he has to shoot robbers and if that isn't bad enough he crosses swords with the local wealthy villain. The body count rises but the villain continues to hire killers. The "kid"as he is known manages to out smart each hired gun. Young Cole keeps his head and remains calm through each situation. Lew Wallace is mentioned as the governor of the New Mexico territory and he was in fact a real person.
Cole Flynn is 14 when his father is killed in a riding accident. Life is hard in the old West but Cole has been taught well by his father to shoot straight and work hard. Cole knows he won't stand a chance all alone unless he's smart and brave. He happens upon a young widow who needs his help and he decides to stay and help her save her ranch. From the get go he has to shoot robbers and if that isn't bad enough he crosses swords with the local wealthy villain. The body count rises but the villain continues to hire killers. The "kid"as he is known manages to out smart each hired gun. Young Cole keeps his head and remains calm through each situation. Lew Wallace is mentioned as the governor of the New Mexico territory and he was in fact a real person.
May 19, 2021
Read it!
I feel like a broken record with these reviews for Mr. Lane. I just finished reading this book for the third time. Its like visiting an old friend.
We are all trying to heal from this medical epidemic and the crises it has spawned. This is exactly what fiction should be doing-- transporting us beyond ourselves for comfort and reflection.
Our cowboy hero this time is thrown into adulthood as a teenager with the sudden death of his father. Within days, he has to kill two men to survive a brutal attempted robbery. His simple desire to travel West and find a spot to farm is put aside as he gallantly steps to the aid of a widow.
I understand where the plot is going, but the settings are always interesting and the characters enjoyable. You'll enjoy yourself.
I feel like a broken record with these reviews for Mr. Lane. I just finished reading this book for the third time. Its like visiting an old friend.
We are all trying to heal from this medical epidemic and the crises it has spawned. This is exactly what fiction should be doing-- transporting us beyond ourselves for comfort and reflection.
Our cowboy hero this time is thrown into adulthood as a teenager with the sudden death of his father. Within days, he has to kill two men to survive a brutal attempted robbery. His simple desire to travel West and find a spot to farm is put aside as he gallantly steps to the aid of a widow.
I understand where the plot is going, but the settings are always interesting and the characters enjoyable. You'll enjoy yourself.
May 8, 2018
Just a Kid by R. O. Lane
At first glance, a reader might think the premise is highly unlikely. As an amateur genealogist, I can see records of the past, even in my own ancestors, where a boy has no choice but to step up and be a man. This boy was brave enough to do that and founded a dynasty. The writing brave your interest with two fists and won't let go. The action is fast-paced, hard, tough, and realistic. I had to read the book in one sitting. Now I'm going to look for more books written by R. O. Lane.
At first glance, a reader might think the premise is highly unlikely. As an amateur genealogist, I can see records of the past, even in my own ancestors, where a boy has no choice but to step up and be a man. This boy was brave enough to do that and founded a dynasty. The writing brave your interest with two fists and won't let go. The action is fast-paced, hard, tough, and realistic. I had to read the book in one sitting. Now I'm going to look for more books written by R. O. Lane.
December 10, 2019
Cole is a 14 year old boy orphaned and alone in the west. He searches for water and finds Kathryn who is a widow at the mercy of villains trying to take her home. He lies about his age then and throughout the story. Soon he was engaged in gunslinging that continues throughout the story. Cole and Kathryn marry when he is only 14 and set out out on adventures that put them at risk. They establish a homestead and raise children despite the frequent threats to their safety.
The story lines are interesting and narrative is engaging as Cole and Kathryn struggle to be successful in west during a time when when women had few opportunities.
I am new to RO Lane books but I must admit that I find each of them very compelling. He is a very good story teller.
The story lines are interesting and narrative is engaging as Cole and Kathryn struggle to be successful in west during a time when when women had few opportunities.
I am new to RO Lane books but I must admit that I find each of them very compelling. He is a very good story teller.
October 4, 2023
Enjoyed every page, thank you 🙏
“Just a kid” is putting it mildly. His pa taught him well. I read this till I fell asleep every night then had to find my place and start again. Otherwise I would have finished sooner, couldn’t hardly put it down, for the age of the boy it amazed me of his smarts and accomplishments . I was so proud of him for everything he did, was so glad he came out on top & his wife was so good to him..He was so deserving and hard working. Will any of the other books measure up to this one?? Let u know later 😆
Would definitely recommend!!!
Tweety 🦜🦜
“Just a kid” is putting it mildly. His pa taught him well. I read this till I fell asleep every night then had to find my place and start again. Otherwise I would have finished sooner, couldn’t hardly put it down, for the age of the boy it amazed me of his smarts and accomplishments . I was so proud of him for everything he did, was so glad he came out on top & his wife was so good to him..He was so deserving and hard working. Will any of the other books measure up to this one?? Let u know later 😆
Would definitely recommend!!!
Tweety 🦜🦜
December 7, 2023
A true Western
I grew up reading Zane Grey and was mesmerized by all of his books. I feel the same way when I am reading any book written by R.O. Lane. I feel heartbroken when I finish a book only because I don’t want the story to end, I am so caught up in the life of the person I am reading about I want to know what they are having for breakfast when I wake up. If you love or even enjoy reading westerns, you will absolutely feel like you struck gold reading any book written by R.O. Lane.
I grew up reading Zane Grey and was mesmerized by all of his books. I feel the same way when I am reading any book written by R.O. Lane. I feel heartbroken when I finish a book only because I don’t want the story to end, I am so caught up in the life of the person I am reading about I want to know what they are having for breakfast when I wake up. If you love or even enjoy reading westerns, you will absolutely feel like you struck gold reading any book written by R.O. Lane.
April 13, 2018
A Georgia to New Mexico Western/With a Few Stops in Between
RIO has penned a western about a father and son who sell the family farm and head west. On the trip the old man has an accident and is killed. The son continues his trip to New Mexico. H meets and protects a young woman until marriage. They raise 6 children and get to visit the rest of the family in Georgia. This is an excellent read for the genre..... ER
RIO has penned a western about a father and son who sell the family farm and head west. On the trip the old man has an accident and is killed. The son continues his trip to New Mexico. H meets and protects a young woman until marriage. They raise 6 children and get to visit the rest of the family in Georgia. This is an excellent read for the genre..... ER
August 7, 2018
A great read.
I've never read this author before but I love a good western and decided to try this book. I could not put it down. I started reading it this afternoon and it is early in the morning now. I had absolutely no willpower to put it down and pick it up again later this morning at a decent hour. I guess it's a good thing I'm retired. Seriously, if you love westerns and you aren't familiar with this author, give him a try!
I've never read this author before but I love a good western and decided to try this book. I could not put it down. I started reading it this afternoon and it is early in the morning now. I had absolutely no willpower to put it down and pick it up again later this morning at a decent hour. I guess it's a good thing I'm retired. Seriously, if you love westerns and you aren't familiar with this author, give him a try!
December 12, 2018
This is an entertaining book, although over the top sometimes. The activities of a young teenager are surprising. In one day, he killed more people than one can normally find in one entire book. Despite these two observations, the heroes in this story are all good people that we would like to know. The desperadoes are pretty well identified. Finally, the epilogue of the book answers questions that the reader might think are not going to be answered.
February 6, 2020
Good story, growing up fast
So many orphans wound up in “labor farms.” A very few made it because of a few lucky breaks, and caring people. Fewer still went on to become successful, marry, live productive lives. I think this story could’ve definitely been a true story of a young orphan, and a young lady down on her luck. Both near the end of their ropes. Both taking on the world and carving out a better future. Great book. Definitely a good read.
So many orphans wound up in “labor farms.” A very few made it because of a few lucky breaks, and caring people. Fewer still went on to become successful, marry, live productive lives. I think this story could’ve definitely been a true story of a young orphan, and a young lady down on her luck. Both near the end of their ropes. Both taking on the world and carving out a better future. Great book. Definitely a good read.
October 25, 2022
Once again an excellent read
This story is unbelievable with the shenanigans that this kid gets himself in and out of. He and his older wife make a good life for themselves once the bad guys are finally gone. This is a great read without too many characters to keep up with. There is no cussing to read or sexual overtures to sort through ... a good family read without any complications.
This story is unbelievable with the shenanigans that this kid gets himself in and out of. He and his older wife make a good life for themselves once the bad guys are finally gone. This is a great read without too many characters to keep up with. There is no cussing to read or sexual overtures to sort through ... a good family read without any complications.
November 12, 2023
Not this time
Up until now everything I have read from this author has been very good. His main characters are always hero material, good at defending themselves and others. But this time the author crossed the line between fiction and pure fantasy. Nothing about the action scenes were the least bit realistic. But, even more to the point, I find an adult woman marrying a 14 year old boy disturbing, distasteful and creepy.
Up until now everything I have read from this author has been very good. His main characters are always hero material, good at defending themselves and others. But this time the author crossed the line between fiction and pure fantasy. Nothing about the action scenes were the least bit realistic. But, even more to the point, I find an adult woman marrying a 14 year old boy disturbing, distasteful and creepy.
March 8, 2018
For some age is just a number
Life, excellent teaching in how to live life, determination and a willingness added to ability and responsibility are the things that makes a person an adult.
For most it takes many years to achieve what those few achieve rapidly. Sadly some die of old age without ever becoming adults.
This tale is about the former.
Life, excellent teaching in how to live life, determination and a willingness added to ability and responsibility are the things that makes a person an adult.
For most it takes many years to achieve what those few achieve rapidly. Sadly some die of old age without ever becoming adults.
This tale is about the former.
April 6, 2018
Just Cole
I am glad I read this. It a beautiful romance story. I like that was written about an older woman and a younger man. I said man and I meant man. There was no backup in him. But I am glad he told her . I am 13 years older than my husband and we've been together over 26 years. Thank you for writing this beautiful love story. She is just a number.
I am glad I read this. It a beautiful romance story. I like that was written about an older woman and a younger man. I said man and I meant man. There was no backup in him. But I am glad he told her . I am 13 years older than my husband and we've been together over 26 years. Thank you for writing this beautiful love story. She is just a number.
July 17, 2018
Perseverance
I read 5 Will Fain books but did not enjoy them as much as I did Just a Kid. I think is because he was expected as just a Kid doing his best to get on with life the best he could. You just had to cheer he time he was the winner! I like it that he was not argent. He just did what he could to live and keep his family.
I read 5 Will Fain books but did not enjoy them as much as I did Just a Kid. I think is because he was expected as just a Kid doing his best to get on with life the best he could. You just had to cheer he time he was the winner! I like it that he was not argent. He just did what he could to live and keep his family.
August 8, 2018
A western that is exciting, easy to read, hard to put down, and I don't have to learn anything. A little closer to the edge than a lot of western genre novels. The hero, a young guy left without parents, and the"girl" a former bar girl and prostitute overcome the obstacles of murderers, crooked marshal's and range robbers to win in the end. Just the way I like my escapism reading to end.
August 12, 2018
Good story
Most folks would not think a 14 year old boy could become a man so fast. Look back at the civil war and WWI and one can find many times when men that were thought to be just kids have proven themselves to be brave men in combat. They still are just kids when we send them off to defend our country today. Good story.
Most folks would not think a 14 year old boy could become a man so fast. Look back at the civil war and WWI and one can find many times when men that were thought to be just kids have proven themselves to be brave men in combat. They still are just kids when we send them off to defend our country today. Good story.
August 12, 2018
An unusual western.
A fourteen young man travel after losing his dad on the beginning of the the trip.. This shows how important the teaching the child of surviving skills as young as you can, so they can live honorable lives. Always someone that wants to steal your what you have, even your life. An exciting life.
A fourteen young man travel after losing his dad on the beginning of the the trip.. This shows how important the teaching the child of surviving skills as young as you can, so they can live honorable lives. Always someone that wants to steal your what you have, even your life. An exciting life.
August 19, 2018
Thourley enjoyed your book - Fell like I was there from start to finish.
Because for the most part there was a time when most of what you shared could have been true. You are an excellent story teller and I enjoyed reading your book.
I'll be checking out some of your other stories.
Thanks for the ride. Best wishes for you and yours..
,
Because for the most part there was a time when most of what you shared could have been true. You are an excellent story teller and I enjoyed reading your book.
I'll be checking out some of your other stories.
Thanks for the ride. Best wishes for you and yours..
,
September 8, 2018
Great book from R.O.Lane ,he really knows how to tell a story.
I have read R.O.Lanes series about U.S.Marshall Fain and enjoyed every one. His books keep the readers interest and you keep reading with the excitement of each new adventure. Keep fighting I will keep buying you books.
I have read R.O.Lanes series about U.S.Marshall Fain and enjoyed every one. His books keep the readers interest and you keep reading with the excitement of each new adventure. Keep fighting I will keep buying you books.
October 25, 2018
Not, "Just a Kid!"; Just a "Grown-up Kid"!
Lane has done a remarkable job of creating characters and story lines that are fit for all ages
and genders to follow and be encouraged to pass
on to all generations for moral and spiritual guidance.
This is a good time to include all of the Will Fain series also!
Lane has done a remarkable job of creating characters and story lines that are fit for all ages
and genders to follow and be encouraged to pass
on to all generations for moral and spiritual guidance.
This is a good time to include all of the Will Fain series also!
May 3, 2019
What a hoot of a story !
First book I’ve read from this author and I’m hooked. This book is quite original to me . A fourteen year old orphan and his adventures are skillfully described . I caught myself laughing at the success of the protagonist . If you want a tale to entertain pick this up.
First book I’ve read from this author and I’m hooked. This book is quite original to me . A fourteen year old orphan and his adventures are skillfully described . I caught myself laughing at the success of the protagonist . If you want a tale to entertain pick this up.
November 24, 2019
The best one yet
I have read about seven R. O. Lane western novels in a row and this one is my favorite thus far. It probably is the top "Bang, bang, shoot 'em up" story from this author I have read so far and as always filled with action, loyalty, love, good vs evil and happy endings.
I have read about seven R. O. Lane western novels in a row and this one is my favorite thus far. It probably is the top "Bang, bang, shoot 'em up" story from this author I have read so far and as always filled with action, loyalty, love, good vs evil and happy endings.
May 5, 2020
Just a kid
WII this is the 3rd one of your books today. This 82 year old lady is hooked on your books. My spouse loved westerns. When he passed, I started reading and watching older westerns. Now I'm hooked. Guess you are one of the best. The westerns of today are not like the westerns of yesteryear. Keep going,so I can keep reading. Enjoyed new readers. You will too.
WII this is the 3rd one of your books today. This 82 year old lady is hooked on your books. My spouse loved westerns. When he passed, I started reading and watching older westerns. Now I'm hooked. Guess you are one of the best. The westerns of today are not like the westerns of yesteryear. Keep going,so I can keep reading. Enjoyed new readers. You will too.
June 23, 2021
Good book.
I read this book once before. I liked the story line it a little bit of a different kind of story. I once again got caught up in it and couldn't put it down. Once I started reading I had to finish. This is a book I could easily recommend for any one . I am a big fan of R O Lane. So far I think I have read all of his western books.
I read this book once before. I liked the story line it a little bit of a different kind of story. I once again got caught up in it and couldn't put it down. Once I started reading I had to finish. This is a book I could easily recommend for any one . I am a big fan of R O Lane. So far I think I have read all of his western books.
February 10, 2022
another one bites he dust
Great story full of ups and downs but exciting as well ,beats me where these guys get the story lines some are really good some not so good but I enjoy them all , this pandemic has got my eyes glued to books I read them so quickly I only hope these authors can keep up , thank you all
Great story full of ups and downs but exciting as well ,beats me where these guys get the story lines some are really good some not so good but I enjoy them all , this pandemic has got my eyes glued to books I read them so quickly I only hope these authors can keep up , thank you all
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews