AN ACRE OF FOOLS: A Novel

by Scott MacLellan

“It is said that the Original Sin was the thought that we could be independent of God, and it is that constant fight for independence that causes all the grief in our lives. If that be true, then we are all fools because we fight for control every minute of every day. . . . At least that’s what Dad thought—that is, until he didn’t know what to think anymore. And that is when our story turned the darkest—when Dad lost his faith.”



Inspired by actual events, An Acre of Fools follows Peter Stewart as he uproots his family for a fresh start. But with the birth of his daughter Austin, their lives change forever. After overcoming a life-threatening childhood illness, Austin can't shake her battles. She develops a terrifying addiction to narcotics and sinks ever deeper into a lifestyle of desperate selfishness, manipulation, and crime. Her father maintains unwavering hope for her recovery, despite the conflict this causes with the rest of the family. But eventually, Austin’s betrayals test even his faith, and he is pulled into a violent, relentless battle against the addiction that threatens to destroy her and against the horrible men who keep her chained to her destructive behaviors. As Peter takes matters into his own hands, he faces the moral tightrope between justice and revenge in the name of love.



An Acre of Fools is a thriller that asks how far a father is willing to go to protect his child. Inspired by actual events, it’s a modern story with an ancient Can you fight evil without becoming evil yourself? Can you pursue the lost without becoming lost yourself?

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2025

Reviews

[Terri Sgro Moses · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a huge hit with my book club. It inspired thoughtful conversations about good and evil and faith and resonated strongly with readers who have encountered illness or addiction in their lives. The characters felt so real that we were left wanting more—and we’re eagerly anticipating the streaming series to see where their stories go next.

[Julie Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Acre of Fools is truly a love letter to the author's family. This was truly one of the best books I've read this year. It's the most incredible story of love, loss, family, joy, and faith that will take you through so many twists and turns. Reading this book, you're able to feel the immense heartbreak of parenting completely different children.. one with tremendously difficult needs, and one that just wants to be the bright spot where possible for a family going through so much. And on top of everything, keeping a marriage together, and faith in tact when it seems like the world is falling apart. My heart hurt for them all, and the struggles they endured. An

[James J · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for HOPE because you or someone you love has faced a mind-blowing family crisis, An Acre of Fools is just what you need (and what our world needs right now)! I was blown away by the honesty with which top CEO and father Scott MacLellan shares the story of his daughter’s battle with addiction. Hollywood couldn’t script something this real … WOW! The ending will fill you with HOPE—not only for the crazy world we live in, but also for the tough things our families are walking through. You’ll find yourself celebrating by the last page. Thank you, Scott, for sharing such a powerful and inspiring story!

[Michael Boerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Acre of Fools is a powerful, heart-wrenching, and inspiring story. From start to finish it’s a wild ride that pulls you in deeply, stirring both emotion and hope.

Scott McClellan has written something that lingers long after you put it down. AOF is particularly important and engaging if you have a loved one caught in the painful cycle of addiction.
Highly recommend!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a thriller that I could not put down. The life wrenching and life giving journey of a father to love, guide and protect his family is bold, insightful and heart warming. It’s a must read!

[Kent Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are few things more powerful than a father's love. So powerful, in fact, it can blind us – if only temporarily – from things we know to be true, right and pure. Scott's book is a brilliantly written and emotionally charged story of how a father struggled to fight evil without himself becoming the evil he so vehemently despised. I didn't just read this story, I seared it into my memory, since, as a father myself, I want to model a way for my children. Sometimes, this means I need to let vengeance be the LORD's, and learn to forgive and walk in peace. Thank you Scott for reminding me of these timeless truths with your powerful, touching and vulnerable work. God bless you!

[Sarah Chocholous · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! I read this book in 48 hours because I could not put it down! I decided to share it with a few friends and they felt the same way! We have loved talking about it together. I heard it’s going to be a T.V series! Can’t wait to watch it. It’s a must read!

[Sherry Linkous · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Acre of Fools stays with the reader long after the cover is closed. It is a honest story telling of love, faith, heart break and powerful emotion. It is impossible to put down once the first page is turned. What a beautiful, moving novel.