I recently received this review for my novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie. This is the first book in the Renegade Series, which tells the story of a family from north Alabama and how the Civil War impacts them. Thank you so much, M.J. Duncombe, for your five-star review!
I first noticed that the author, J.D.R. Hawkins, dedicated this novel to her dad. It must have made her dad proud of her daughter and this book. I have always been interested in novels, even movies, that are set in centuries past because it gives a glimpse of what it must have been like to live through those times, either during war time or peace time. This novel of the Civil War follows the story of Hiram Summers, a farmer turned Confederate soldier, who strived to navigate the tumultuous, complex landscape of the American Civil War. The author sets a heart-wrenching novel in the spring of 1861, and explores the fracturing of a once-united nation. Protagonists and antagonist battle it out with physical and mental force, and also with their souls. The Rebel forces seized forts and a new Confederate president was elected. As Hiram fought in Virginia, his son David sought adventure at home. Meanwhile, his wife Caroline grapples with the challenges of maintaining their farm. Through the Summers family's experiences, the novel allows readers to take a look into the harshest realities of the civil war. Once again, just like in the movies, we read about the deep, meaningful sacrifices that soldiers and civilians made for their home and country. The longing for a sense of peace, normalcy and adventure is felt amid perilous times. I would have liked it more if the chapters have subtitles or clues to keep up with the novel's nature. But other than that, my favorite chapters are 5, 7 and 8. If you are interested in novel settings like this, this book is also for you.