I’m very excited to announce that my website will soon have an awesome new design! The site should be completed in a couple of weeks, so stay tuned! In the meantime, I had a new headshot taken. Please let me know what you think!
In other news, I have a few more five-star reviews to share with you for A Beautiful Glittering Lie. Thanks so much for your rave reviews!
5.0 out of 5 stars Harsh realities of war
Reviewed in the United States on February 23, 2024
With southern accents and colloquialisms, readers are transported from an old southern home life to the battlegrounds of the Civil War where soldiers and their families endure the harsh realities of war. The author immerses readers into the heart of the Civil War with language that resonates with that time frame in the south. While the men are away, the women are fighting their own battle at home trying to keep the Yankees from stealing anything. I think the women deserve combat medals too.
Hawkins’ description of desperate soldiers enduring bad weather, dwindling supplies, and the brutality of combat are stories I’ve heard from my own family and friends who served in the military.
The description of the war from the southern side was enlightening. This book is for anyone who enjoys history.
5.0 out of 5 stars An page-turning tale of the Civil War
Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2024
As an enthusiast of historical narratives, I found myself utterly captivated by this book, because it is a compelling exploration of the Civil War. This masterpiece not only delves into the tumultuous period of American history but also intricately weaves together the personal struggles, how family dynamics change, sacrifices, and triumphs of its characters, leaving an indelible mark on the reader’s heart and mind.
Beyond its gripping plot and rich historical tapestry, the novel resonates on a profoundly human level, reminding us of the enduring power of courage, determination, and sacrifice in the face of insurmountable odds. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a powerful tribute to those who lived, fought, and perished in the crucible of war. It is a beautiful exploration of the hardships and human endurance during a very trying time.
5.0 out of 5 stars A Well-Crafted Story About the Civil War
Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2024
This unflinching historical fiction novel follows Hiram Summers, a north Alabama farmer who decides to enlist and join the conflict during the Civil War. He sees combat, which is portrayed in gruesome detail. Meanwhile, his young son David sees the war come to his very doorstep, while Hiram’s wife Caroline deals with the grim and thankless tasks that make up her day-to-day reality.
The Civil War has been portrayed in many books and movies, but seldom have the human struggles that formed its backbone been so beautifully and tragically rendered. This isn’t always the most cheerful book, but it’s masterfully written and eminently readable.