About the Book

 "Chains of Gold is a profound, moving, historically accurate tale of slavery."

Katelyn Schoumaker - Author - The Golden One Trilogy

This book is a truly sensational story about one of the most difficult times not only in American history, but in world history, too. The author's love of historical fiction shines through the pages with the utmost respect, care, and accuracy.

Carter's story is one that many people may not be familiar with, and the author beautifully gives Carter a voice in the modern day through careful research and creative liberties. The story will tug at your heartstrings and offer an even deeper, day-by-day, year-by-year glimpse into the horrors, struggles, betrayals of slavery during the Gold Rush - but at the same time, the author weaves tender moments of true love, perseverance, and new beginnings throughout the tougher, overall story.'

"If you are a historical fiction fan, this one will satisfy your appetite."

Yecheilyah (e-see-li-yah) Ysrayl, multi-award-winning author, book blogger, and poet who specializes in Black historical fiction and poetry. Her mission is to restore Black historical truth.

Although Carter and Charles are half-brothers, playing side by side as boys, adulthood exposes the lie of that intimacy. One is granted power by birth; the other is denied ownership of his own body. I was struck by how powerfully the author juxtaposes affection and oppression throughout the story, illustrating how love can coexist with, and be corrupted by, slavery. Carter and Charles' bond is no match for a system designed to break one man for the comfort of another.

The best thing about this book is that it's based on a true story, and the author has accurately included all the important historical nuggets.

"Chains of Gold is an important and timely work that challenges romanticized visions of the Gold Rush and confronts readers with the enduring legacy of racism in American law and society. It is essential reading for fans of historical fiction who value authenticity, moral depth, and stories that reclaim voices too often erased from history."

Mrutyunjaya Sahu - Editorial review for Books for Badal

Chains of Gold is a powerful and sobering historical novel that exposes a lesser-known but deeply unsettling chapter of American history: the persistence of slavery and systemic racism in California during the Gold Rush. Ken Robb blends meticulous historical research with compelling storytelling to illuminate how freedom, once promised, could be violently stripped away through law, greed, and prejudice.

"Chains of Gold honors the courage of those who navigated perilous times. It is moving, thought-provoking, and unforgettable."

Mary Balogh - Author/Novelist

Chains of Gold's combination of historical detail and personal struggle left a lasting impression. Carter's journey from enslavement to entrepreneurship is compelling, and the novel does an excellent job showing how freedom is never simply granted it is fought for, day by day.
What struck me most was how the book handles the tension between hope and systemic oppression. The characters' victories are tempered by the harsh realities of laws and societal structures designed to strip them of agency. The depiction of the Fugitive Slave Law's impact makes the stakes immediate, tangible, and heart-wrenching.

Equally powerful is the portrayal of relationships under pressure. Carter and Hannah's love feels real and earned, anchored in shared struggle and resilience. Their determination to claim dignity in the face of injustice gives the story both weight and emotional resonance.

"Chains of Gold" hit me hard. It brought the past to life. I could smell the dirt of the plantation fields and hear the clinking of Carter's chains in that dingy cell. It's gripping in a way that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go. Honestly, I was right there, feeling the weight of every decision, every injustice, every fight for freedom."

Bright Kawa - Author and Editor