J.D.R. Hawkins

Tag: writing

  • Fans Rave About Fool’s Gold Folly

    I have received several emails in regard to my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly, and would like to share some of them with you. This book ties in with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan. Patrick’s desire to strike it rich in Colorado after the Civil War turns into something much more than gold lust. Here is what fans have to say:

    (From Camille Rhodes Brown)

    I came across Fool’s Gold Folly, and from the first lines of your description, I felt its pulse the lure of possibility, the grit of survival, and the fragile line between hope and danger. Patrick Mulligan’s journey isn’t just about gold; it’s about the deep human hunger for a better life and the resilience it takes to chase it.

    You’ve given readers more than a historical adventure — you’ve given them a window into the Irish immigrant experience during one of the most volatile times in American history. The wilderness of Colorado Territory, the raw hunger for fortune, and the bonds of friendship forged in hardship all feel alive in your telling. Silas Garvey’s presence, with his dark secret and failing health, adds a poignancy that makes this story not just gripping but deeply human.

    (From Grace Champ)

    I just finished reading Fool’s Gold Folly, and I was deeply moved by Patrick Mulligan’s journey  not just westward, but inward, as he confronts the promises and perils of a country still healing from war. His resilience, ambition, and the fragile friendships he forms in Breckenridge capture something truly special: the heart of the immigrant dream set against the raw edge of frontier life.

    You’ve brought to life a piece of history that still feels incredibly relevant:  the push for new beginnings, the weight of personal loss, and the quiet strength of Irish communities carving out space in post-Civil War America.

    Thank you so much, Grace and Camille, for your kind words!

    I am always looking for positive reviews, so please post your reviews to Amazon and/or Goodreads. And don’t forget, this novel is available as an audio book too!

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3C2LE8KYRELF4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.m1E2lQgHJOkXYl9c3PiDhCVmWhh7bWVefHes23bYCjtm-BOiB2Llbfypkne1YgoZ.o5hyFZyy84WgBwK0ZnyqDlN2mQvhXXCv65sPZoG07LI&dib_tag=se&keywords=fool%27s+gold+folly&qid=1754522027&sprefix=fool%27s+gold+folly%2Caps%2C192&sr=8-1

  • Recently Featured on Podcast

    I was recently interviewed for a podcast by P English Literature in Britain. Here is the link to that podcast: https://youtu.be/egmL1slHmIc?si=EVFKueH5PUko-k7-

    Here is some information about the host, Peter Okonkwo, and the show.

    About the Host
    Peter Okonkwo is a Nigerian writer, poet, fatalist, literary critic, chorister, spiritual philosopher, violinist, editor, publisher, songwriter, soon–to be–novelist of Etean’s Destiny, certified orator, and show presenter at PEL.
    He is the author of six poetry collections: Ecstasy of the Dead; Fate, In the Dungeon of Doom; Whose Fault, Kismet or Impediment? and Escape from the Unseen Dungeons book series. Peter is gifted with
    the aptitude to explore and demystify certain difficult life issues through his thought-provoking, raw–arresting transcendent poetry.
    His works have been reviewed to critical acclaim (locally and internationally) and featured in notable literary magazines, newspapers, and TV stations including the Australian Plumwood Mountain Journal, The Lagos Review, Writers Space Africa, Afreecan Reads, Sevhage, Ngiga Review, Con-Scio, The Nigeria Review, Daily Trust Newspaper, Journal of African Youth Literature among others. He was an exhibit author at Africa’s second-largest international book fair, NIBF, 2024 Edition. Peter was in November of 2024 endorsed by the Art Council of England as an “Exceptional Promise” in the field of literature.
    He is the founder of P. English Literature (PEL), a literary organization dedicated to the promotion of literature in all genres. Since its inception in 2020, PEL has featured over 700 authors in interviews, and over 1000 in total of literature works. It was recognized as the first-ever international BookTube show in Africa that features authors from around the world. Peter is also the community founder of the Akure
    Book Club, a fast-growing society of book enthusiasts to promote literature in the city of Akure, Nigeria, and internationally through diverse literary events.

    About P English Literature (PEL)

    Founded in 2020 (RC: 7923553) and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, P English Literature is a Literary and Art organization dedicated to the promotion of English Literature regardless of genre.
    Our publication of book reviews, author interviews, book festivals, opinion commentaries, literary criticism, writer’s conferences, book club meetings, open mics, and other literary activities are explicitly done to publicize and incite authors and writers of different backgrounds, heritages, and cultures.
    Originally focused on promoting self-published authors and their works, we have expanded to traditional books and authors as well. We are the first-ever international BookTube show in Africa that features
    authors from around the world.

    Thank you so much, P English Literature, for having me on your show!

  • Fool’s Gold Folly Makes Round 3!

    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!

    A Touching Portrait of the Irish-American Dream

    Logan Shaw –

    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!

    Heartwarming and Honest

    Jackie –

    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.

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

  • More News and Reviews

    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,

    https://bookluver.com/civicrm/mailing/view?id=862&reset=1

    and on Reading Nook. https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2025/05/22/book-blitz-fools-gold-folly-by-j-d-r-hawkins/

    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!

    • Ashlyn
    • 5.0 out of 5 stars 
    • Hardships, endurance and human spirit
    • “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.
    • L DeRollo
    • 5.0 out of 5 stars 
    • Exciting & Heartfelt
    • 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.

    Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience (The Renegade Series): Hawkins, JDR: 9798312529845: Amazon.com: Books

  • More Five-Star Reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly

    The reviews keep coming in! My new novel, Fool’s Gold Folly, has received more five-star reviews, so I wanted to share them with you. This novella is a side story to go with the Renegade Series and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan. Thanks so much, Sal, AM Gamer, V.E., L DeRollo, and Ivory, for your flattering reviews!

    Sal

    5.0 out of 5 stars Heartfelt and immersive

    Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2025

    Verified Purchase

    This was a nice read! I especially loved how the accent was directly captured in the dialogue—it really helped me immerse myself in the story. The journey of Patrick Mulligan felt real and engaging, and the blend of adventure, hope, and looming danger kept me turning the pages. The friendships, especially with Silas, added depth, and the hint of mystery made it even more compelling. A solid blend of historical fiction and human emotion.

    A M Gamer

    5.0 out of 5 stars An inspiring and comforting read.

    Reviewed in the United States on April 8, 2025

    Verified Purchase

    Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience (The Renegade Series) JDR Hawkins offers a warm and engaging look into a historical journey filled with hope, adventure, and the spirit of overcoming adversity. The writing provided a gentle escape into a bygone era, blending historical context with heartfelt moments.

    This book is perfect for readers who enjoy historical adventures and stories of resilience. Its accessible tone and genuine storytelling make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for an inspiring and comforting read.

    V.E.

    5.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining Read

    Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2025

    Verified Purchase

    In Fool’s Gold Folly, J.D.R. Hawkins has written a great story set in gritty 19th-century Colorado mining towns. Filled with historical detail, the story is also filled with emotion. You follow the characters through loss, ambition, and finally a redemptive narrative. This is a perfect quick read filled with memorable characters, a great setting, an interesting plot, and a fulfilling story. Recommended.

    L DeRollo

    5.0 out of 5 stars Exciting & Heartfelt

    Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2025

    Verified Purchase

    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.

    Ivory

    5.0 out of 5 stars Ambition, friendship and survival…

    Reviewed in the United States on April 7, 2025

    Verified Purchase

    “Fool’s Gold Folly” by J.D.R. Hawkins is a moving story about ambition, friendship and survival in post-Civil War America. Set against the rugged beauty of Colorado, it follows Patrick Mulligan’s journey from hopeful dreamer to a man shaped by hardship and heartache. The book explores the immense Irish immigrant struggles; the cost of gold fever and the strength found in resilience. With rich characters and emotional twists, it captures a rather bittersweet truth of chasing a better life.

    Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience (The Renegade Series): Hawkins, JDR: 9798312529845: Amazon.com: Books

  • In Honor of a Mule

    I’m a big fan of critters. Right now, I have downsized to two dachshunds and two kitties. I also love horses but could never own one because we lived in the city. Some of my favorite memories, though, are when my sister and I went to my aunt and uncle’s farm during the summer and went horseback riding with our cousins. In fact, I adore horses so much that I wrote a book about them, titled Horses in Gray: Famous Confederate Warhorses. I felt like these magnificent beasts deserved to have their stories told rather than having them lost to history. I also love hearing about the pets that soldiers had during the Civil War. I’ll be sharing more stories about them in upcoming posts.

    Meanwhile, I wanted to share this story about a mule who dutifully served with the 104 Ohio Volunteers, named May Me. She was so special that they have honored her with a statue!

    Lt. Adam J. Weaver, 104th Ohio Volunteer, wrote to his wife between November 26 and the early morning of November 30, 1864, asking her to mark locations, times, and dates on a map he had sent earlier. He described the 6th Ohio placing a two-gun battery “pulled by mules, trained to lie down in action.” The lead mule, May Me, wore an old felt hat with holes cut for her ears.

    In commemoration of this unique historical detail, the Battle of Franklin Trust has commissioned a life-sized bronze of May Me, the 6th Ohio Light Artillery’s leader mule.

    With approval from the City of Franklin Arts Council, May Me will be placed in Carter Hill Park’s artillery display, enriching the site’s historical interpretation. Lieutenant Weaver’s account highlights the role of a single mule much like that of a soldier, offering a rare glimpse into the significance of animals in war. This documented detail from Franklin also invites exploration of battles like Stones River (December 31, 1862–January 2, 1863), where thousands of horses and mules perished.

    If you would like to donate to the May Me the Mule project, gifts may be directed to The Battle of Franklin Trust, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064. or online at https://boft.org/battlefield-reclamation.

    (Article courtesy of Blue and Gray Education Society)

    Horses in Gray: Famous Confederate Warhorses: Hawkins, J. D. R.: 9781455623273: Amazon.com: Books