The Secret of Shadow Ranch

I realize that the ND stories are meant for "young readers" but, as an older reader, I still love to read them. I've read several and they all have different story lines and are quick reads. It's refreshing to find books written before sex and foul language make up for weak story lines.

This volume introduces us to Nancy's faithful chums, Bess Marvin and George Fayne.Since I read both the original and revised editions, I have divided my review accordingly.1931 Original Edition:Nancy is invited by George and Bess to spend the summer at a western ranch, newly acquired by their aunt. While there, she meets their unhappy cousin Alice Regor whose father mysteriously vanished eight years before. Nancy also encounters a strange old woman living in the mountains with a mistreated young girl named Lucy. Unable to learn the child's relation to her abusive guardian, Nancy also wonders why Lucy is forbidden to speak to anyone. She decides to investigate.In this edition the story is intriguing and fun; and the author, Mildred Wirt Benson, did a great job of incorporating a real Western atmosphere. But there isn't enough emphasis on the mystery itself, and that lowered my interest.The chemistry between Nancy and her friends is very enjoyable. The writing is extremely good; of course some obsolete terms are used. The illustrations are very nice, although there are only four and they are secluded from the text (in later printings, all but one are deleted).1965 Revised Edition:Nancy, Bess and George plan on spending the summer at Shadow Ranch owned by Bess and George's aunt and uncle, but upon arriving they find that the ranch is besieged with sabotage and the recurring appearances of a ghost horse. Nancy starts investigating, and she also tries to help Alice Regor, whose father has been missing for six months.This edition is packed with danger, suspense, and high-speed action – it's very hard to put down! The story pace flows well, and there are lots of twists. The Western atmosphere is well-defined.Nancy's chemistry with Bess and George is fun, as always. The writing is less rich than the original edition, but it's still excellent nonetheless. The illustrations are also great.In conclusion:The original edition needed a stronger focus on the mystery itself, but it's still a good book with an enjoyable story. I rate the original edition 3 stars.The revised edition is superb and one that I'd be quick to recommend to a mystery lover. I rate this edition 5 stars.J. M. B.

Am I the only adult still enjoying Nancy Drew books? This is my go to when I need to clear my head.

I think this is one of the best Nancy Drew mysteries. Fun western adventure and cliffhanging elements.

My book worm (teen daughter) enjoyed this

Western ranch, girls exploring, phantom horse ghost, strange goings-on. There is so much in this book, each page gets better, Nancy Drew solves the mystery and finds the treasure.Very good read.

Love everything about this series !! I looked forward to buying each book for which I paid $1.25!! Good fun!

Great Book. Fast shipping

This was a very boring book . It took too long to get into the story and the story in itself was boring. I had to stop reading it but eventually I finished it. Very disappointed and not realy worth the money. :(

My daughter enjoyed this book and talked about what was happening in it frequently, but I don't think it captured her attention the way some of the others we've read did. It's worth reading, though, if you like Nancy Drew stories.

Classic story from the Nancy Drew mysteries

One of the best Nancy Drew books, in my opinion. I bought this for myself after reading it in the library as a teenager.

Good, enjoyable read. Good story line.