“As in her first novel, Dancer (1996), Shelley Peterson tells a horse story and skilfully mixes elements of mystery, suspense, romance and family drama to create an exciting read .... Abby Malone is written in the style of classic children's stories, with ... old-fashioned charm that is both endearing and enduring. This well-produced book is a “must-have” for all school and library collections. Highly recommended.”

— Canadian Book Annual Review

“I thought Dancer, Shelley Peterson’s first novel was the best horsey book of all time but maybe I was wrong…Abby Malone, the sequel to Dancer, is every bit exciting.”

— Elizabeth Lumsden, The Millers Tale

“Abby Malone is a very likeable main character in very challenging circumstances, but occasionally displays human weaknesses that make her more believable. She lives in a world of both peers and adults all too willing to put her down. She is so likeable that naturally she does have at least one good friend her own age and attracts the protection of some kindly older adults. Not only are horses key characters, but so also is a coyote and to a lesser degree other animals.”

— The Rider

“Sprightly Abby Malone has a charm reminiscent of L.M. Montgomery's young girls, of such intrepid problem-solvers as Jane of Lantern Hill and Sara Stanley of The Story Girl and The Golden Road. She combines an adventurous spirit with sensitivity, common sense and a good degree of feisty courage. Abby is a memorable character, well drawn by Peterson, whose knowledge of young people and animals is noteworthy.”

— London Free Press

“This is a story that will inspire any reader, young or not, and would make a great gift or prize.”

— Horse Action International