Welcome to Fool’s Gold, a charming fictional town in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills where love is always in the air and happy endings are guaranteed! Susan Mallery’s beloved Fool’s Gold series, a New York Times bestselling contemporary romance saga, invites readers into a cozy community brimming with heartwarming stories, quirky characters, and a unique twist: the town’s men just don’t stick around. With over 20 books and several novellas, this series is a delightful escape for romance fans craving small-town charm and emotional journeys.
From its first book in 2010 to its lasting fanbase, Fool’s Gold blends humor, heartfelt connections, and a touch of steamy romance, making it a standout in the genre. Whether you’re new to Mallery’s world or a longtime fan, this series promises a cozy, love-filled adventure.
How Fool’s Gold Began
Susan Mallery, a prolific romance author, created Fool’s Gold after a lunch with fellow writer Debbie Macomber, who suggested a series set in a single town for endless storytelling possibilities. Inspired, Mallery crafted a vibrant community in 2010 with Chasing Perfect, the series’ debut. What started as a trilogy grew organically into a sprawling saga, with Mallery’s detailed worldbuilding—complete with maps, a town history, and a 300-page database—earning her comparisons to fantasy authors like Tolkien for her immersive craft.
The Heart of Fool’s Gold
The series kicks off with Chasing Perfect, where city planner Charity Jones arrives to fix Fool’s Gold’s man shortage, only to tangle with bad-boy cyclist Josh Golden. Their chemistry sets the tone for the series’ blend of humor and heart. Almost Perfect follows Liz Sutton, who returns to face her high school sweetheart Ethan Hendrix, unaware of their shared secret—a son. Only Yours introduces therapy dog trainer Montana Hendrix and guarded surgeon Simon Bradley, exploring love’s healing power. Thrill Me, a later favorite, reunites Maya Farlow with ex-lover Del Mitchell, sparking second-chance romance amid the town’s romantic reputation.
Fool’s Gold’s setting, with its festivals like the Easter Egg Drop and spots like Jo’s Bar, feels like a real town, fostering a strong sense of community. Themes of second chances, healing from past wounds, and finding belonging resonate across the books. Mallery’s witty dialogue and emotional depth, paired with steamy yet tasteful romance, make each story a standalone gem, though recurring characters feel like old friends by the series’ end.
Why Fool’s Gold Resonates
Fool’s Gold has captured hearts with its promise of happy endings, earning Mallery a devoted following and critical praise, with outlets like Booklist lauding her “expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling.” The series’ immersive world and relatable characters have inspired fans to devour its 20-plus books, with some comparing its addictive quality to Robyn Carr’s Virgin River. Its influence extends to a spin-off series, Happily Inc., proving Mallery’s small-town formula is timeless. For romance readers, Fool’s Gold remains a comforting retreat where love conquers all.
- First Book: Chasing Perfect (2010)
- Total Books: Over 20, plus novellas
- Setting: Fool’s Gold, California
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
Dive into Chasing Perfect and let Fool’s Gold sweep you away with its irresistible romance and small-town magic!