Rowdy: Return

by Chris Mullen

A culmination of lessons learned are put into action as Rowdy traverses family ties and unstoppable action in this transformative coming-of-age western.

Cloaked in darkness and in the brunt of a treacherous storm, Rowdy rides in pursuit of a dangerous gambler caught cheating and robbing a game at the Waterin’ Hole Saloon. But when he’s overpowered by a gang of men claiming to be the law, he’s forced to return to Lincoln without his prisoner.

On the road home, Rowdy meets a family traveling with a wagon train of settlers who claim they recognize him and have unbelievable news. Rowdy’s brother, thought to be dead all these years, is alive and in grave danger.

Rocked by the news, Rowdy has but one decision—find his brother and do everything in his power to save him.

Thrust into the beginning of an uprising that may just get him killed when he attempts to uncover his brother's whereabouts, Rowdy has everything to lose. But nothing will stop him from making his return.

“A rollicking western with plenty of heart.” —Early Reader

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2023

About the author

Chris Mullen is an award-winning author, educator, and graduate of Texas A&M University from Richmond, Texas. Before becoming a full-time writer, he spent 23 years as a Kindergarten and PreK teacher, captivating his students with Rowdy adventures.

In 2021, he signed with Wise Wolf Books, launching the ROWDY series, which now includes six novels and two short stories (The Hunt and The River). His short story The River was featured in Ridin’ with the Pack, an anthology released by Wolfpack Publishing on December 26, 2023.

Chris also writes the Cass Callahan contemporary Western mystery series for Wolfpack Publishing. The series debuted in 2024 with Dead Land, followed by Kill Order and Hunting El Despiadado. Also, his short story, Hard to Kill was published in Ridin’ with the Pack, Vol. 2 in December 2024. More Cass Callahan adventures are on the way in 2025, including the novels Darkness Rising and Texas Terror.

Awards & Recognitions
•ROWDY~Wild and Mean, Sharp and Keen
2023 Independent Press Distinguished Favorite
2022 The Wild Bunch Film Festival - Best 1st-Time Western Manuscript Writer
2022 North Texas Book Fest Finalist - Young Adult
2021 Selah Award Finalist - Westerns
2020 Best Book Finalist - Westerns
2020 American Fiction Awards Winner - Westerns

•ROWDY~Redemption
2022 North Texas Book Fest Finalist - Young Adult

•ROWDY~Dead or Alive
2023 Will Rogers Medallion Bronze Medal
2023 Sunny Side Up Film Festival Winner - Best Action/Adventure Western

•ROWDY~Rescue
2024 Will Rogers Medallion Winner
2024 American Legacy Awards Finalist - Westerns
2023 American Fiction Awards Finalist - Westerns

•ROWDY~To Catch a Killer
2024 American Legacy Awards Finalist - Westerns
2023 American Fiction Awards Winner - Westerns

•ROWDY~Return
2024 Will Rogers Medallion Winner

Chris’s work continues to attract readers of all ages. Stay connected through his website, chrismullenwrites.com, or follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok (@chrismullenwrites), and X (Twitter) @cmullenwrites.

Reviews

[David Crow · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rowdy series by Chris Mullins is filled with adventure and danger as Rowdy is confronted with treachery and death at every turn. These books are a fun romp through the old west with a character that you root for until the end. I love these books and eagerly look forward to the next.

[Donadee's Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey there, Western readers, here's Chris Mullen's first series 'Rowdy' the complete six-book collection.

Immerse yourself in the gritty world of 'Rowdy,' a six-book series by Chris Mullen that takes you on a harrowing journey through the Wild West. This collection is not for the faint of heart, as it follows the young protagonist, Rowdy, through a life marred by tragedy and shaped by the relentless pursuit of justice. The saga begins with 'Wild and Mean, Sharp and Keen,' where we meet thirteen-year-old Rowdy in the aftermath of a brutal attack that leaves his family dead and his home in ashes. Pulled from the waters of the Mississippi River, Rowdy's tale of survival and vengeance unfolds across the rugged landscapes of America. Each book in the series escalates the stakes, with Rowdy facing down bandits, river pirates, and his own inner demons. From 'Rowdy: Redemption' to 'Rowdy: Dead or Alive,' Mullen crafts a narrative that's as much about the spirit of survival as it is about the battles that define the era. Chris Mullen's 'Rowdy' series has been praised for its authentic portrayal of a young man's coming-of-age in a time where lawlessness reigned supreme. Readers have lauded the series for its vivid descriptions, fast-paced action, and the protagonist's complex character development. It's a testament to the enduring allure of Westerns and their ability to capture the imagination with tales of courage, honor, and the fight for what's right. For those with a Kindle Unlimited subscription, the entire series is available to borrow, making it an accessible adventure for all who dare to ride alongside Rowdy into the sunset. So, saddle up, Western readers, and prepare for a ride through danger, redemption, and the unbreakable bonds of loyalty that define the Rowdy series.

• ASIN: B0CHC2PP9B
• Publisher: Wolfpack Publishing
• Publication Date: 10/24/2023
• File Size: 3261 KB
• Print Length: 1601 pages
• Genre: Teen & Young Adult Travel Fiction eBooks – Teen & Young Adult US 19h Century Historical Fiction eBooks - Teen & Young Adult Westerns Fiction eBooks

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

ROWDY : Return
By Chris Mullen

After abruptly losing his home, his father, and his brother, Rowdy had found a way to survive. He was tested, and learned to value those friends who became family. A chance encounter with two men from back home will change his story remarkably.
Chris Mullen, has brought back the Rifleman's nostalgia to a younger audience. The story of the rough and tumble west, the hero with the profound moral code is laid before a new audience. I hope he continues to add tales of daring, bravo, and fortitude to young adult readers for years to come.

[Joanne Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

great series

Hopefully this isn’t the last book in the series. Good stories. Great characters and lots of action. Will read more from this author

[Jeff Benham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rowdy finds out that his brother in Illinois, who Rowdy thought was dead, is alive, but in trouble. Naturally, Rowdy is going to his aid and this time, Molly is going with him.

[Drew- Pickleball Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent coming of age story geared toward young acults and those who enjoy westerns. The main character Rowdy is also an orphans and pretty much raises himself with the help of good mentors. As he makes difficult decisions, he comments about why he made those decisions.