Step into the gritty, magical world of the Colin McCool Junkyard Druid series, where a cursed druid battles supernatural chaos in a West Texas brimming with fae, vampires, and dark humor! Penned by M.D. Massey, this urban fantasy saga follows Colin McCool, a reluctant hero blackmailed by a cunning faery queen, as he navigates a life upended by a tragic curse. With nine novels and three novellas, the series weaves Celtic mythology, modern struggles, and snarky wit into an addictive read that’s perfect for fans of Jim Butcher or Patricia Briggs.
Colin’s story isn’t just about slaying monsters—it’s about wrestling with loss, mastering a darker nature, and outsmarting manipulative fae. Set in a vividly imagined Austin, Texas, the series hooks readers with its fast-paced action and heartfelt character arcs, making it a hidden gem in urban fantasy.
How Colin McCool Junkyard Druid Began
M.D. Massey, an Austin-based author, launched the Colin McCool Junkyard Druid series in 2016, drawing inspiration from his love for Celtic mythology and urban fantasy giants like Kevin Hearne and Jim Butcher. Initially a supporting character in Massey’s post-apocalyptic THEM series, Colin’s charm and complexity as a cursed druid demanded his own spotlight. Massey crafted a world where folklore meets modern grit, setting the stage in a magical West Texas that pulses with supernatural intrigue. The series’ inception was fueled by Massey’s desire to create a relatable, snarky protagonist who faces both external threats and inner demons.
The Heart of Colin McCool Junkyard Druid
The series kicks off with Junkyard Druid (2016), where Colin, living in a junkyard and haunted by a curse, is forced by faery queen Maeve to recover a stolen magical artifact while solving werewolf-related murders. Graveyard Druid (2017) sees him tackling an undead outbreak, grappling with a sentient magical artifact in his skull. Druid Mystic (2020) ramps up the stakes as Colin faces a Celtic god and hunts a master vampire in New Orleans, showcasing his growth from apprentice to formidable druid. Druid Master (2020) ties up major arcs, with Colin battling to save an alternate timeline while preserving his druidic legacy.
Blending Celtic lore with urban grit, the series explores themes of resilience, redemption, and the cost of power. Colin’s curse, tied to a tragic loss, makes him a trouble magnet, drawing fae, gods, and monsters into his orbit. Massey’s Austin setting—alive with junkyards, coffee shops, and hidden magical realms—grounds the fantastical in a relatable, vibrant backdrop. The series’ dark humor and fast-paced action, paired with Colin’s nerdy charm, create a style that’s both thrilling and deeply human.
Why Colin McCool Junkyard Druid Resonates
The Colin McCool Junkyard Druid series has carved a niche among urban fantasy fans for its authentic characters and rich mythology. Readers praise Colin’s relatable struggles—grief, self-doubt, and defiance against manipulative forces—mirroring real-world battles with adversity. Massey’s willingness to tackle heavy topics like loss and addiction, without relying on gore or shock value, adds depth that resonates across ages. The series’ cult following, evident in glowing Amazon and Goodreads reviews, hails its world-building and non-stop action, comparing it favorably to the Dresden Files. Its lasting appeal lies in Colin’s underdog spirit and the promise of more adventures, with Massey teasing future stories in alternate universes.
- First Book: Junkyard Druid (2016)
- Total Books: 9 novels, 3 novellas
- Setting: Austin, Texas
- Genre: Urban Fantasy
Ready to join Colin McCool’s wild ride? Grab Junkyard Druid and dive into a world of magic, mayhem, and snarky druid heroics!