I received this wonderful review for my novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie, and wanted to share. This book is the first one in the Renegade Series, which tells the story of a family from north Alabama and how their lives are impacted by the Civil War. Thank you so much, Amanda Lewis, for your flattering review!
"I recently finished A Beautiful Glittering Lie, and I have to say, I was immediately drawn into the world [the author] crafted so vividly. [She] captured the raw emotions and complexities of the Civil War through the Summers family, especially through the contrasting experiences of Hiram and David. Their personal journeys mirrored the larger struggle of the nation, and I found myself deeply invested in their fates.
"[The author’s] book offers a captivating and multi-layered narrative that explores complex themes with both grace and depth. The way [she] intertwines personal experiences with broader societal issues creates a rich and engaging reading experience. [Her] storytelling is both evocative and insightful, providing readers with a profound understanding of the subject matter.
"[The author’s] portrayal of Hiram’s transition from a peaceful farmer to a soldier entrenched in the brutal reality of war was both compelling and heart-wrenching. It was easy to empathize with his internal conflict as he faced the horrors of battle, as well as with David’s youthful yearning for adventure, unaware of the full cost of what he was seeking. The way [the author] managed to show both sides of the conflict – those who went off to war and those who stayed behind – added a rich layer of depth, especially with Caroline’s emotional struggles at home.
"The sense of realism in [the author’s] descriptions, from the battle scenes to life on the farm, painted a clear picture of how the war tore families apart and left lasting scars. I especially appreciated how [the author] didn’t shy away from the grim reality of the conflict while still maintaining the humanity of [her] characters. The letters between Hiram and Caroline were poignant and gave the narrative a deeply person touch…
"…Overall, A Beautiful Glittering Lie beautifully balances historical accuracy with emotional storytelling. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by everyday families during the Civil War, and I’m eager to continue the Renegade Series to see where the journey takes these characters next.
"Thank you, [J.D.R. Hawkins,] for crafting such a moving and thought-provoking tale!"