In 'The Furnace of Gold' by Philip Verrill Mighels, readers are transported to the rough and rugged world of the California gold rush. Mighels' detailed descriptions of the mining camps, the hardships faced by prospectors, and the lure of striking it rich paint a vivid picture of this tumultuous time in American history. The book is written in a straightforward yet engaging style, with a focus on the personal lives of the characters amidst the chaos of the gold rush era. Mighels' attention to historical accuracy and his ability to bring the setting to life make this a compelling read for those interested in the period.