The Butcher on Colfax

by J.T. Tierney

On an autumn day in 1890, eighteen-year-old Alice Butler and her sister Nora step out the massive doors of the Union Depot in Denver and into their new life, far from their home in Ireland. Call it what you may—coincidence, chance, or tragic fate—the same train has deposited two other young Irish immigrants at the foot of the Rockies that day: Thomas Quinn, a skilled carpenter with a heart for labor rights and brotherhood, and Emmett Kelly, a butcher with relentless self-interest at his core. In the following years, the lives of these four will intersect, leading to loves, conflicts, and unexpected alliances. A devastating dispute will shatter their world, testing their resolve to move forward.

We are at their sides as they navigate personal challenges amidst sweeping social and economic changes, and we witness the indomitable spirit and resilience of immigrants daring to dream. Watching every setback turn into a step forward, every heartache reveal a stronger bond, we learn for ourselves the essence of ambition, the price of progress, and the infinite capacity for hope.

"Tierney’s historical tale is well-researched and engaging. The clear writing, good pacing, and extensive character and plot development make this an enlightening and enduring read." — Kate Robinson, U.S. Review of Books

Genres: Historical Fiction

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2024

About the author

John Tierney writes fiction in various genres. His newest release in August, 2025, is Perfect Plans, an opposites-attract workplace rom-com set in the world of New York event planning.

His best-selling novel is The Butcher on Colfax, a work of historical fiction that immerses readers in the lives of Irish immigrants in 1890s Denver. We are at their sides as they navigate intense challenges amidst sweeping social and economic changes, A devastating dispute shatters their world, testing their resolve to move forward.

He'a also the author of Extreme Malice, a psychological thriller about political conflict over COVID policies in a small Colorado city.

His debut novel, Love, Literally, is a contemporary smart romance, set on Cape Cod—a heartwarming story of two people in mid-life whose mutual attraction is sparked by a love of British literature and witty wordplay.

Before venturing into fiction, Tierney was a professor and teacher for decades.

He lives outside Chicago with Sue Tierney, his wife of 43 years, and their Great Pyrenees

Reviews

[Christine Allison · Rating 2 out of 5]

No Real Plot

The writing of this book was very stilted and bland. There seemed to be 4 main characters at the start but then they just dropped one of the female characters and we never really heard about her again. When big plots like deaths occurred in the story, they were just dropped in with no real feeling at all. It felt like you were reading a nonfiction book as all characters were written with such lack of depth and emotion.

[Ivan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Butcher On Colfax is a compelling novel that immerses readers in the past. Set in the final years of the 19th century, it follows Emmett Kelly and three other Irish immigrants as they navigate the challenges of their new lives in America. What impressed me most is the author’s deep understanding of the era. J.T. Tierney clearly conducted thorough research to accurately depict the events and issues of the time, such as the emergence of women’s rights and the impact of the influenza virus. In today’s focus on COVID-19, we often overlook historical diseases like influenza, which caused widespread deaths when healthcare lacked the advancements we have today. Tierney writes with pride and a touch of nostalgia about this period, celebrating the hard work and resilience of people who built the foundation of this country. His narrative highlights the grit and determination essential for overcoming the challenges of that era. I found this novel both entertaining and meaningful. It reminds us of the importance of understanding our past to shape our future. With a rich plot and endearing characters filled with hope and ambition, the book starts slowly with a pivotal decision and builds intensity and commitment as it progresses.

I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction that transports them to another time. It’s a captivating journey that grips you and doesn’t let go. I look forward to more stories from this author.

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply amazing.

The story revolves around Alice Butler and her sister Nora, who leave Ireland for a new life in Denver. Along their journey, they encounter two other young Irish immigrants, Thomas Quinn and Emmett Kelly, through what seems like fate or tragedy. Throughout the book, these characters, each unique yet equally compelling, navigate various relationships from romance and alliances to conflicts and struggles. Amidst societal and economic shifts, they face personal challenges while striving to pursue their dreams. Among the characters, Alice stood out to me the most; her unique personality, values, and courage deeply resonated with me. I appreciate how the author intertwines social and political issues into the narrative, making the novel both engaging and relevant. J.T. Tierney's ability to develop seventy-one chapters with such historical depth is commendable. Each character is intricately crafted with distinct personalities, dreams, and struggles. I highly recommend The Butcher on Colfax, a captivating novel. It's a compelling read that kept me hooked from start to finish.

[VIRGINIA DACOSTA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Irish in Denver

Good read about difficulties faced by Irish immigrants in the late 19th early 20 th century. The story essentially focuses on the strength of two women whose hard work, despite adversity, triumphs.

[Pat · Rating 1 out of 5]

The promo for the book said that “it would keep me on the edge of my seat”. I found it very slow . The first part of the book was just romances. The rest was predictable. I would not recommend it .

[Kate Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sitting on opposite sides of the court room, Maggie Quinn and Alice Kelly wept."

Four young Irish immigrants seek their fortunes in Denver, Colorado, filled with enthusiasm and dreams for their new futures. Emmett Kelly, the titular butcher, has meat-packinghouse experience in Chicago and longs to open his own butcher shop or grocery store. He may be considered the lead protagonist because the novel opens and closes with his predicaments, but the story is truly not Kelly’s alone. He becomes acquainted with Thomas Quinn on the train to Denver, a young carpenter who is quieter and much less brash. The young men soon find a wealth of job opportunities and female companionship in the rapidly growing city. Despite the era’s restrictions for women of all ages, Alice Butler and Maggie Sullivan are high-spirited young ladies with viable dreams of their own. More interested in romance than in making a headlong rush toward marriage and motherhood, they’re inclined to seek both adventure and respectability in their new environment.

Tierney’s historical tale is well-researched and engaging. The clear writing, good pacing, and extensive character and plot development make this an enlightening and enduring read. One will become quickly invested in the characters, learning much that is factual about the lives of Irish migrants in the US at the turn of the twentieth century. Also explored are broader historical events such as the influenza epidemic during World War I, the problems encountered in early industrialization, such as long hours and mind-numbing, low-paying, repetitive factory jobs that working-class women often filled, and the struggles of laborers who were forced to wrangle with wealthy business owners for better working conditions and the union wages they deserved. . .

Read more at The US Review of Books!
https://www.theusreview.com/reviews-1...

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

J. T. Tierney immerses reader in a gripping and evocative journey into the raw and often brutal realities of late 19th-century America. This historical novel vividly captures the harsh life of Emmett Kelly, a young man who escapes the soul-crushing grind of a Chicago meatpacking plant in search of a better future in Denver. Tierney's writing shines in its attention to period details, which bring the setting to life with a visceral intensity. The author's portrayal of Emmett's struggle with the relentless, dehumanizing work of a scraper is both compelling and sobering, making his subsequent journey westward feel like a desperate bid for liberation. The book’s pacing is well-measured, allowing for a slow build of tension and a gradual deepening of the reader's connection to the characters. The plot unfolds with a mix of predictable and unexpected turns, keeping the reader engaged without resorting to contrived twists. Tierney also skillfully incorporates elements of historical significance, such as the rise of labor unions and the expansion of the American West, which ground the personal story in a broader social context. This blend of personal and historical narrative creates a rich tapestry that is both enlightening and emotionally stirring.

[Jan McNutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m from Denver so the book was interesting to me. I recognized many of the streets & areas mentioned. The story was an enjoyable read that focused on strong, intelligent women who made up the fabric of early Denver and the West. Unfortunately, men still rule the West but according to this novel, women were given opportunities not afforded to women in other early growing cities. Or at least, these women took the bull by the horn and plowed through the age old discrimination against women. I wish I had known them. Anyone who has lived in or is familiar with Denver will enjoy The Butcher on Colfax.

[Chrysa Gandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining story

I enjoyed this historical fiction and liked the strong female characters! The one gripe is that although it was interesting to read and you could tell a lot of research went into it, it tended to get very preachy in its one sided view about unions! Did they help the common worker?!Yes, but nothing was said about how they spelled doom for the individual small entrepreneurs! They were portrayed as saintly saviors with no mention of any of the the downsides and the potential for corruption.
Other than that it was a good story worth reading!

[Clare L. Hasler · Rating 5 out of 5]

the Butcher on Colfax

This could be an exact example for those who came to America and made a life. It took time, but the story line keeps you intrenched from beginning to the end. I love all the Characters especially Emmett who had to go to Leavenworth for 4 Years, for a petty two month tax evasion so called crime It wouldn't happen in this day and time How he turned around his daily life along with other inmates playing baseball and other activities. Many other story lines it was a rapid read.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of hope amidst adversity

The Butcher on Colfax is a beautifully crafted novel that invites readers to immerse themselves in the struggles and triumphs of its characters. With its rich historical context, engaging plot, and powerful themes, it is a must-read for anyone interested in the experience of Irish immigrants and the enduring human spirit. Prepare to be moved and inspired as you journey alongside Alice, Nora, Thomas, and Emmett in this unforgettable tale of perseverance and hope.

[Zee's Bookish Haven · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Butcher on Colfax is a wonderful historical fiction book about four Irish immigrants. It highlights the trials of life and is incredibly immersive. Each character is well-developed, the writing is lovely, the story is gripping. I also incredibly loved the strong female characters, especially with the hardships they went through in the era they were in. Definitely a must-read for fans of historical fiction. I have received a free copy on BookMuffin from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review

[Babs M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read it because I like history and lived in Denver several years. Pretty good but the good guy is a union man, wonderful lover, great husband and the bad guy a capitalist has an unhappy loveless marriage and unethical in business so I could not help but think there was political bias in the presentation. Good guy dies at the hands of the butcher, whom he thinks sold him tainted meat, in a tussle. Even in prison the best he could do for the guy was make him a good baseball player on the prison team.

[Rosa Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sadness in my heart

Irish immigrants meet and ride a train to a new life in Colorado. Nora, Alice, Tom and Emmett. Some find love and some find harshness of life. I was always rooting for these four main characters. The girls eventually do well but the boys left me with a sadness in my heart. Actually crying for them. A great book. I would recommend this book to everyone. Loved it.
Thank you J.T Tierney for a wonderful book.

[Sue T · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous historical novel.
Irish immigrants. Denver at the turn of the 20th Century. Frontier law. Love and lusty relationships. A festering fued between the hot head who runs the local butcher shop and the earnest young union organizer who used to be his friend. The resourceful women who join together to make a go of it.
This book has winning and colorful characters with lots of detail about Denver that makes the story come alive.
You'll be hoping for the sequel.

[Doug Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

This was a refreshing change from my usual fare of murder, spies, & war. Most of give not a thought about the brave men & wind an who pioneered this great country, their hardships, sorrows, off times going from abject poverty to dizzying heights if one had the gumption as these two ladies did. A great read!

[Mila Norquist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good book. Didn't know of this author, but I'd like to read more work by them. The historical research that went into this is extensive and is handled in a way that enhances the story rather than just being showy. I thought the character development was really good. So was the dialogue. In short, a surprising find. I heartily recommend it.

[Sharon Abrams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book!!

Its not often you're able to enjoy reading a book & learn something too! I appreciate the authors research efforts immensely! My favorite thing was the coming together of the two women & their families! And for them to become successful business women together!

[jeannette Dooley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jean38no

A good read . The characters become part of your family. I love the way the author takes you through time of big events that happened in history. How they affected the characters in the story . Such as World War I. I enjoyed reading of the various characters as they realized their dreams and ambitions.

[Rick Larkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jury still out.

Interesting story with interesting characters. I found myself wanting to read this book, but all the while, waiting for it to really grip me. It was good enough for me to want to read more from this author , hoping that the next will be better

[Joyce Frakey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Predictable story line

The dialogue was hollow and peppered with unnecessary vulger Language as if intended to authenticate the speaker. I honestly couldn't finish it because I could predict what came next, most certainly another f word.

[Betsy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Puts individual experiences in era context

Well written historical novel. Puts experiences of the day in historical context. Encouraging about human resilience and how much our mindset impacts our quality of life, whether we acknowledge it or not

[Sara Altshul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked it a lot!

I quite liked this book. I loved the feel of the locations, the growth of the country, the difficulties faced by all, women’s rights, etc. I would recommend it highly. A very good read.

[Linda S. Salsman · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book took a turn right after the beginning and someone whom I thought would be a good guy is a bad guy. The book does redeem itself but it very slow moving, going from person to person.

Not a fav.

[Corina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining Read

This was a surprisingly good read. The characters were believable; the plot was interesting and I really cared about what was going to happen to the characters.

[Annette Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

a good read

I love reading books about earlier days in America. This book was well written and I enjoyed all the characters

[Rosie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved!

[sandra saltzburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read on denver

Really great story of the history of how women e were treated and the beginning of change in Denver .

[Kristin Smock · Rating 1 out of 5]

Had a lot of potential, but just no depth or suspense

[Casey Chiaraluce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

I really enjoyed this book. It had everything g
Good times and bad and the courage of these women to move successfully with there life's .