In February, I ran into a bit of trouble with my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella is a side story to go with the Renegade Series, and centers around one of the minor characters in the series, Patrick Mulligan. Patrick is an Irish immigrant who travels from Pennsylvania to Colorado Territory after the Civil War ends. His search for gold winds up being more than what he bargained for when he meets an old miner in the town of Breckenridge. Silas Garvey has a dark secret and warns Patrick of the threat that lurks in the shadows.
This book was removed from Amazon because it apparently went against their regulations. However, the issue has been resolved, and I’m happy to say that the book is available once again! Not only in paperback and eBook formats, but also as an audio book! Here is the official book trailer for Fool’s Gold Folly.
The problem I have now is this: all of the previous reviews that were posted on Amazon have disappeared, so now I don’t have any reviews! Therefore, I am asking you for a favor. Could you please read the book and post a review? I would be eternally grateful! I will even send you a promo copy (eBook) if you so desire. Just shoot me your email address. The book is only six chapters long so it’s a quick read. Thank you so much in advance. I’m looking forward to hearing from you! And thanks again for your ongoing support.
A Becharmed Callie Christmas has been featured a lot lately, and I just wanted to keep you up to speed with what’s been going on. This book is a side story to go along with the Renegade Series, and takes place between books one and two of the series. It tells the story of Callie Mae Copeland, a minor character who has just turned sixteen and is experiencing Christmas in a whole new light with the Civil War approaching it’s second year.
As I mentioned previously, A Becharmed Callie Christmas was featured on Books and Brunch last week. Now it has been nominated for the Authors Excellence Award in next month’s Literary Honors and Author Recognition event for consideration in their Historical and Holiday Fiction category.
The book also made it to number one on Goodreads Listopia. This exposure helps the book gain momentum as far as readership and visibility go.
A Becharmed Callie Christmas has also received several new five-star reviews. I’d like to share a few with you. Here is what readers are saying. Thank you so much, Paul, Betty, Becky, and Glory, for your stellar reviews!
A touching and evocative story set against the backdrop of the Civil War, A Becharmed Callie Christmas captures both the charm and uncertainty of a world on the brink of change. Through Callie Mae’s eyes, we see the innocence of youth collide with the harsh realities of war and loss.
J.D.R. Hawkins brings warmth and authenticity to her characters while weaving in the historical tension of the era. The festive tone of Christmas contrasts beautifully with the looming darkness of conflict, making this a poignant and memorable read for the season.
Our book club enjoyed how Hawkins balanced historical detail with emotional depth, a heartfelt reminder that even in uncertain times, hope and family endure.
This book was recently featured in our Books and Brunch club, and it turned out to be such a meaningful read. A Becharmed Callie Christmas starts off feeling light and festive, but it slowly unfolds into something much deeper as the reality of the Civil War sets in.
Our book club featured A Becharmed Callie Christmas, and I really enjoyed it. J.D.R. Hawkins did an amazing job bringing the Civil War era to life through Callie Mae’s story. Her excitement for Christmas, mixed with the sudden reality of war, made it both emotional and memorable.
We featured Becharmed Callie Christmas by J.D.R. Hawkins in our Hall of Fame event, and it truly touched my heart.
The story follows Callie Mae Copeland as she prepares for Christmas during the Civil War, a time when joy and uncertainty walk hand in hand. Hawkins beautifully captures that mix of innocence, family, and the bittersweet reality of change.
A short but powerful read that reminds us how love and hope can shine even in the darkest times. Highly recommended.
I received several new five-star reviews on Goodreads for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella tells the story about one of the minor characters in the Renegade Series, Patrick Mulligan. After the Civil War ends, Patrick takes his family from Pennsylvania farmland to Colorado Territory in search of gold. But what he finds there is something far more priceless. Thank you so much, Joanna, Jessica, and Swazo, for your flattering reviews!
Hawkins’ research shines on every page. From dusty mining towns to tense political landscapes, the settings feel immersive and alive. Her characters are equally vivid flawed, hopeful, and driven by both love and survival. The dialogue rings true, and the pacing keeps you turning pages while still giving space for emotional depth.
J.D.R. Hawkins once again proves her mastery of historical storytelling in Fool’s Gold Folly, the newest installment of The Renegade Series. Set in the tense years following the Civil War, the novel explores how fractured communities and the people within them struggle to rebuild and redefine themselves.
Hawkins masterfully brings history to life, crafting a setting that feels both vivid and authentic. From the gritty mining towns to the unforgiving frontier landscapes, every detail immerses the reader in the atmosphere of the 1870s. Her careful use of historical elements enriches the story without ever overshadowing it.
I would like to share upcoming news regarding my newest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella ties in with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan, who first shows up in book three of the series, titled A Rebel Among Us. Once the Civil War has ended, Patrick uproots his family from Pennsylvania and takes them to Colorado territory where he hopes to strike it rich. However, he encounters more than he anticipated when he meets an old miner, Silas Garvey. This book is being featured in several online book clubs, and is garnering many more five-star reviews on Goodreads. Here area few:
Fool’s Gold Folly” is the kind of story that lingers in your heart. The way Irish resilience is woven into the narrative made me feel both proud and inspired. A remarkable read that balances grit with hope.
Fool’s Gold Folly” is a moving tribute to the Irish people’s unshakable resilience. The author captures hardship without ever losing sight of hope, which makes this book not only historical but deeply human. I closed it with tears in my eyes and admiration in my heart.
This book surprised me. I expected a typical historical drama, but what I found was a layered story of loss, resilience, and survival. The way the characters wrestle with dreams versus reality felt so authentic, and it gave me a new appreciation for Irish history and endurance.
The title hooked me, but the story kept me. There’s a beautiful tension between despair and hope, woven into every chapter. By the end, I felt like I had lived through the struggles myself, a testament to the author’s storytelling.
Reading this book was like stepping into another era. The hardships felt real, the victories hard-earned. What impressed me most was how universal the themes are, resilience, courage, and the pursuit of something better. It’s Irish at heart, but relatable to all.
Fool’s Gold Folly” blends sorrow and strength in equal measure. It’s the kind of book that forces you to pause, reflect, and appreciate how far human endurance can go. The characters carry both flaws and bravery, which makes them unforgettable.
In other news, I will be participating at a local author event here in Redding, California. If you’re around, stop by! I will be offering the four major books of the Renegade Series for half price.
As always, I’d like to invite you to check out my website, jdrhawkins.com, and sign up for my newsletter. There you will find more information about upcoming events, interviews, blog posts, book signings, etc.
I’ve listed all of my links below. Please like, follow, and share! Again, thank you so much for your ongoing support!
I recently received more five-star reviews for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella goes along with the Renegade Series and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan. Thank you so much, Mac Dougherty, Rebekah Acosta, and Elyse Huber, for your amazing reviews!
Reading this book felt like watching a movie unfold. The wagon jerking down a mountain road, the snowy passes glinting under starlight, Briana nervously scrubbing dishes in Mrs. Tydings’ immaculate parlor it all played out like a film in my head. Hawkins has a way of writing cinematically without losing emotional intimacy. I could see the dust rising from wagon wheels, hear the laughter around the fire, and feel the humiliation when Patrick was dismissed in town. The saloon scenes in particular stood out, filled with light, smoke, and the soft rasp of Silas Garvey’s cough. I would love nothing more than to see this story adapted to the screen, because it already reads like it’s halfway there. The landscapes and the humanity are written with stunning clarity.
The opera chapter is one of the finest pieces of writing I’ve come across in historical fiction. Patrick and Briana entered with joy, dressed simply but proud, only to be shoved aside with the phrase “seats for your kind.” I felt his humiliation so strongly it was like a physical ache. And yet, once the music began, they were swept into awe like everyone else. That contrast prejudice and beauty colliding in the same moment is what makes this novel unforgettable. Hawkins didn’t need explosions or dramatic duels to keep my attention; she used something far more powerful: the sting of words. The description of the stage, the costumes, and the soaring voices was so vivid I could see it all. This scene alone could stand as a short story about hope, art, and resilience. It’s rare to find a book that makes you both angry and uplifted in the same breath.
Silas Garvey walked into the story quietly, coughing into his glass at the saloon, but he left an enormous mark on me. His conversations with Patrick were raw and full of wisdom. Silas wasn’t just a side character he was a mirror of mortality, a reminder that dreams can fade but dignity remains. Every time he appeared, I slowed down to savor his words. His presence transformed Patrick’s journey from being only about chasing gold to being about friendship and meaning. Hawkins could have easily written him as a background figure, but instead, she gave him a soul. Watching Silas struggle with his health, yet still find time to encourage Patrick, was both inspiring and heartbreaking. By the time his arc drew to a close, I felt like I had lost a friend. That kind of emotional connection is rare and powerful.
I recently received two new five-star reviews for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly on Amazon. This book ties into the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan, who leaves the Pennsylvania farmland to test his luck at striking it rich during the gold rush to Colorado Territory following the Civil War. Thank you so very much, Cameron Hahn and Fallon Trevino, for your flattering reviews!
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2025
Briana quickly became my favorite character, and her arc with Mrs. Tydings was unforgettable. At first, it seemed like she had been given a gift steady work, housing, and a safe place for her children. But slowly the cracks showed, and she was forced to balance gratitude with suffocating control. Hawkins writes her with such depth a woman swallowing her pride, clinging to dignity, and protecting her children at all costs. Moreen’s warning about Mrs. Tydings being a tyrant lingered in my mind, and it came true in ways that broke my heart. What I admired most was Briana’s resilience. She endured, but she never lost her spark. Her small victories felt as powerful as any gold strike. In many ways, her struggles mirror what countless women faced: survival through adaptability, patience, and an unshakable will to keep family intact. She is the quiet hero of this novel.
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2025
From the first scene where Patrick is turned away by a shopkeeper because of the cruel “No Irish Need Apply” sign, I knew this book would grab me. The author does a wonderful job of showing the pain of rejection but also the quiet strength of family. Briana’s gentle faith and the way she keeps her children grounded gave me chills she’s a mother you can’t help but admire. When the family finally finds lodging with Mrs. O’Neill, I actually sighed with relief, as if I were part of their struggles. Hawkins doesn’t just tell you history she makes you feel it. Every meal of watery soup, every tired prayer, every glimmer of hope is written so vividly. The wagon train sections added another layer, showing how strangers bonded under hardship. I closed the book feeling like I had lived through every dusty mile and every hungry night with the Mulligans. This is one of those rare novels that makes you grateful for your own blessings.
For this week only, Fool’s Gold Folly, in eBook format, is on sale through Amazon for only 99 cents! Now is you chance to pick up my new book for half price! And don’t forget, Fool’s Gold Folly is now also available on Audible!
Here are a few more flattering reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly that I recently received on Goodreads. Once again, thank you for your support, and thank you, Jackie, Brian Smith, and Logan Shaw, for the awesome five-star reviews!
A beautiful tale of grit, love, and hope. I was instantly swept into Patrick and Briana’s world and found myself rooting for them through every hardship. The historical setting felt authentic, and the family’s resilience brought tears to my eyes. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction with soul.
This book reminded me how deeply immigrants have shaped the American story. The Mulligans are a lovable family, and their journey—from discrimination in Denver to chasing gold in the mountains—is both emotional and inspiring. I couldn’t put it down!
I’ll have to admit, I don’t check Goodreads as much as I should. Upon looking today, I came across some awesome reviews that were posted for my novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie. This is the first book in the Renegade Series, which tells the story of a family from north Alabama and how the Civil War impacts them. Thank you so much, Harold Cheetham, Donna Weir, and Amber E., for your amazing reviews!
Another great Civil War novel. Plenty of action. I look forward to reading more in the series. Received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
J.D.R. Hawkins really places you into the Civil War with this book. For someone who is not a history buff, the beginning starts off a little slower. The storyline and characters draw you in and keep you reaching for the next chapter. Making this a book that is hard to put down. Can’t wait to continue this adventure with the next book.
The book itself was really good. Granted, it did take me a while to get into it. I was also reading the promotional copy, so it was hard to read because the font was super small & not able to be adjusted. Which was likely the reason it took me so long to be able to read it.
My latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly, has made it into round three of the best cover of the month. The contest is held by AllAuthor. It is really exciting to have my book make it this far! If you haven’t yet voted for the cover, please do! If you already voted, please vote again! Thank you so much! Here is the voting link: https://allauthor.com/cover-of-the-month/19730/
I wanted to share a few more reviews of the book with you. These are all five-star reviews posted on Goodreads. Thank you, Logan Shaw, Jackie, Clifford Day, Julius J., and Daniel Rumley for your amazing reviews!
This book reminded me how deeply immigrants have shaped the American story. The Mulligans are a lovable family, and their journey—from discrimination in Denver to chasing gold in the mountains—is both emotional and inspiring. I couldn’t put it down!
A beautiful tale of grit, love, and hope. I was instantly swept into Patrick and Briana’s world and found myself rooting for them through every hardship. The historical setting felt authentic, and the family’s resilience brought tears to my eyes. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction with soul.
Clifford Day –
I was so enthusiastic for this book and, of course, I didn’t have a chance to get on. All-in-all I really enjoyed the book. I’ll definitely be reading more by this author.
Julius J. –
The story was remarkable, kept me absorbed all throughout.
Daniel Rumley –
LOVE it! The author has such a dazzling way of keeping you engrossed with words.
I have been receiving more amazing reviews for my new book, Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience. This book tells the story of an Irish immigrant, Patrick Mulligan, and what he goes through when he decides to travel to Colorado Territory in 1869 to search for gold. I also wanted to let you know that the book is being featured on Book Luver’s newsletter this weekend,
Thank you so much, Ashlyn and L DeRollo, for your flattering reviews. And thank you for supporting me in my writing endeavors. I couldn’t do it without you!
“Fool’s Gold Folly” by J.D.R. Hawkins is a touching historical tale that highlights the hardships faced by Irish immigrants during the gold rush era. Blending heartfelt storytelling with rich cultural detail, the novel captures the endurance and hope of people chasing better lives.
The setting feels authentic and the characters bring warmth and depth to the journey. With a touch of mystery and emotional insight, the story delivers a rewarding read. It beautifully balances historical facts with personal stories with a meaningful glimpse into the human spirit.
A very exciting, heartfelt, and suspenseful tale! I really like the underlying message about the importance of love and family, which is at the heart of the story. This is what drives main character Patrick Mulligan to persevere when in the midst of danger while searching the goldmines in Colorado to try to make it rich. Is the price of gold worth the danger involved? Can he keep his family safe? The characters in this story are very well-developed, relatable, and expressive. I can picture them perfectly in real life! The rural historical setting is perfect for this story and reflects both the need for survival, the “fool’s gold” mindset, simplicity, and a strong sense of community. Recommended.
J.D.R. Hawkins 