I can't tell you how stoked I am to be receiving such amazing reviews for my new novella, Fool's Gold Folly! This is a side story to go along with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of Patrick Mulligan, an Irish immigrant who travels west to Colorado after the Civil War in search of gold. Thank you so much, Kenika Peach, quirru, Grace Eliot, and Jeyran M for your wonderful reviews!
And in other news, I am holding a giveaway for Fool's Gold Folly on Goodreads, so hop on over and enter the contest to win your eBook copy of the book! The giveaway signup is from April 25 through May 8. Good luck!
Fool's Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience by J.D.R. Hawkins | Goodreads
Reviewed in the United States on April 17, 2025
This is a great short mining story based around all the mining going on in Colorado back in the 1800's! Readers get the chance to follow Patrick and his family moving all the way to Breckenridge, Co to hopefully find some gold with all the mining going on in Colorado at the time. While trying to find some gold, Patrick also get the chance to meet and work with some other Irish Immigrants that are similar to Patrick while having the same goal in mind with finding gold! One Irish person in particular that helps Patrick out with finding gold is a man named Silas! Silas helps Patrick with trying to find gold with the limited time he has left on earth, and readers also get the chance to learn a dark secret about Silas adding some intrigue to the story! With the way the story ends, readers may not like the end with trying to find gold, but that is the case sometimes with finding gold or life in general, and it makes a great life lesson as well. If this story were to continue, hopefully Patrick will be able to find more gold one day and maybe a spot Silas was talking about as well! Another intriguing thing about this story too is people get the chance to read what Breckenridge was probably like during the 1800's before it turned into a ski destination like it is today!
A fictionalized view of Irish history and culture
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2025
Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience (The Renegade Series) by JDR Hawkins
Historical novel of resilience and courage. Set in the 19th century, the main character moves to a gold-mining town hoping to strike it rich. Evan experiences the adventures and dangers that lie in wait for him, and how, through resilience and courage, he manages to achieve certain things. The novel speaks volumes about the culture of Ireland and the community itself during this time. It's an interesting read.
Captivating and emotionally charged
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2025
This is an engaging and gritty historical novel that captures the essence of perseverance and courage. I found it both captivating and emotionally charged. The characters are well-developed, and the story is rich with Irish history and culture, giving readers a deep dive into the struggles and resilience of the time. The author’s vivid writing brings the setting to life, making it easy to get lost in the world of the Renegade Series.
A heartfelt, atmospheric read that brings the spirit of the West to life.
Reviewed in the United States on April 8, 2025
Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, Fool’s Gold Folly is a gripping tale of hope, hardship, and Irish resilience. Patrick Mulligan’s pursuit of fortune in Colorado’s gold country is rich with adventure, friendship, and unexpected danger. J.D.R. Hawkins weaves history and emotion into a compelling story of dreams tested by harsh realities. A heartfelt, atmospheric read that brings the spirit of the West to life.