The Discretion Series
Novels of Factual History About Heroism and the Native Tribes
by J. Hoolihan Clayton
~ 4 BOOK SERIES ~
With illustrations and engravings from Harpers Weekly
Books 1, 2 and 3 available now
Book 4 expected Fall 2023
About the Author
Juliana “Hoolihan” Clayton is an indigenous woman of Turtle Island (First Nations Plains Cree/Nehiyawak) who was adopted by a white family and raised on a cattle ranch in Wyoming. She has lived and worked with Native Americans and cowboys throughout the West during her years as a ranch hand and wildland firefighter. With a degree in history and education from the University of Montana, it has long been her goal to create a series of entertaining novels that are rife with impeccable research, unflinching veracity and forthright cultural perspectives on American history.
A member of Western Writers of America, J. Hoolihan has been published in western historical magazines, such as “True West” and “Wild West.” During her extensive research, she continues to accumulate an abundance of topics for a succession of factual stories pertaining to the 19th century American West. Commendable Discretion, the first book of the Discretion Series, was published in January 2021. It was a finalist in the High Plains Book Awards. With Great Discretion, the second book, was published in February 2022. Small Light of Discretion is the third book of the series.
“Throwing the hoolihan” is a technique that old time cowboys used for roping horses. It has been Juliana’s nickname for many years.
The Discretion Series
Beginning just after the Battle of the Little Big Horn, the “Discretion” series delves into underexposed and accurate history of the American West, founded in aggressive 19th century political policies inspired by manifest destiny and intended to destroy Native American cultures and people. Charles Wolfe Collins, a man of integrity, robust convictions and audacity, is an Irish immigrant with a background in the secret service during the Civil War and various covert investigations for powerful men in Washington D.C. His qualifications and known sympathies for indigenous populations, originating in a childhood dominated by British rule, place him in direct opposition to uncompromising U.S. interests, eager to exploit treaty lands and natural resources. Sent upon dangerous commissions by men such as President Grant, Collins finds himself forging bonds of friendship with Native people and stumbling upon truths he might not want to know. More fact than fiction, the series incorporates meticulously researched historical figures, documents and incidents and delivers poignant historical depictions of the frequent brutality and calamitous racism that was endemic to the Old West.
The Discretion Series is an accumulation of engaging stories intended to challenge pre-existing cultural and historical generalizations, especially regarding American Indian peoples. While intended to educate as well as entertain, these novels are eminently provocative, comprehensively researched and woven into the fabric of the 19th century West, populated by authentic historical figures, compelling events and vivid landscapes. The reader becomes immersed in the language, daily existence and predominant societal perspectives of the waning days of the American West.
Most importantly, Native American cultures and languages are respectfully portrayed throughout the series via the author’s own indigenous worldview, personal experience, accurate research and consultation with mentors from specific tribal nations.
Books in the Discretion Series
~ Book 1 ~
COMMENDABLE DISCRETION
A DETECTIVE NOVEL OF THE OLD WEST
Published January 2021
~ Book 2 ~
WITH GREAT DISCRETION
A NOVEL OF FACTUAL HISTORY
ABOUT HEROISM AND THE CHEYENNE PEOPLE
Published March 2022
~ Book 3 ~
SMALL LIGHT OF DISCRETION
A NOVEL OF FACTUAL HISTORY
REGARDING TREACHERY AND THE EXPULSION OF THE UTES
Published December 2022
~ Book 4 ~
DISCRETION IS VALOUR
A NOVEL OF FACTUAL HISTORY
PERTAINING TO BRAVERY AND THE CHIRICAHUA APACHE
Expected Fall 2023