The Civil War, a defining moment in American history, shattered a nation's dreams and innocence. This tumultuous period, marked by intense conflict and profound societal change, is vividly captured in the works of J.D.R. Hawkins, an award-winning author known for her evocative portrayal of the Civil War from a Confederate perspective. Among her acclaimed Renegade Series, "A Beautiful Glittering Lie" is a poignant depiction of the era's harsh realities and the devastating impact on a single family.
About the Author
J.D.R. Hawkins is an Amazon, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author whose work has garnered numerous awards. As one of the few female authors writing about the Civil War, she brings a unique perspective to her stories, often focusing on the Confederate side. Her Renegade Series includes "A Beautiful Glittering Lie," the winner of the 2013 John Esten Cooke Fiction Award and the 2012 B.R.A.G. Medallion. The series continues with "A Beckoning Hellfire," "A Rebel Among Us," and "Double-Edged Sword," each receiving critical acclaim and multiple awards. Hawkins' work not only explores the historical events but also delves into her characters' personal lives and struggles, making history come alive for her readers.
A Beautiful Glittering Lie: A Story of Innocence Lost
In "A Beautiful Glittering Lie," Hawkins transports readers to the spring of 1861 when America was on the brink of division. The novel begins in North Alabama, where the Summers family faces the harsh reality of a country torn apart by war. Hiram Summers, a farmer and father of three, decides to enlist in the Confederate army, leaving behind his family and everything he has ever known.
Hiram's journey to Virginia with the Fourth Alabama Infantry Regiment thrusts him into the brutal world of combat. Meanwhile, his son, David, remains at home, yearning for adventure. David's attempts to find excitement in scrutinizing invading Yankees with his best friend, Jake Kimball, reveal his naivety and the dangerous allure of war. Caroline, Hiram's wife, struggles to maintain the farm and the family, her life revolving around the letters she receives from her husband, whom she misses dearly.
Through the experiences of Hiram and David, Hawkins explores the true meaning of war. Hiram's initial patriotic fervor is soon replaced by the grim realities of battle. David's quest for adventure leads to a painful realization of war's devastating effects. The family's journey is a microcosm of the nation's loss of innocence, highlighting the personal sacrifices and emotional turmoil that the Civil War inflicted on countless families.
The Renegade Series: A Continuation of the Civil War Saga
Following "A Beautiful Glittering Lie," Hawkins continues the saga of the Summers family with "A Beckoning Hellfire," "A Rebel Among Us," and "Double-Edged Sword." Each novel delves deeper into the lives of Hiram, David, and those around them, offering a comprehensive look at the war's impact on individuals and communities.
- A Beckoning Hellfire: David Summers, grieving the loss of his father, enlists in the Confederate army. His journey through the battlefields of Virginia and Pennsylvania exposes the stark reality of war, challenging his ideals and altering his perception of heroism and revenge.
- A Rebel Among Us: After being wounded at Gettysburg, David finds himself nursed back to health by four sisters in Pennsylvania. As he grapples with his identity and loyalties, David faces a moral dilemma that tests his beliefs and the bonds he forms with his caregivers.
- Double-Edged Sword: The Civil War's end brings David new challenges as he returns to Alabama with his wife, Anna. The scars of war and the difficulties of rebuilding a life in a changed world force David to confront his past and seek justice for the wrongs he endured.
Horses in Gray: A Unique Perspective
In addition to her Renegade Series, Hawkins has published a non-fiction work titled "Horses in Gray: Famous Confederate Warhorses." This book highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Confederate steeds during the Civil War. By exploring the bond between soldiers and their horses, Hawkins provides a unique perspective on the war, showcasing the courage and resilience of these animals alongside their human counterparts.
The Bottom Line
J.D.R. Hawkins' works, particularly "A Beautiful Glittering Lie," offer a profound exploration of the Civil War's impact on individuals and families. Through her meticulously researched narratives and richly developed characters, Hawkins brings to life the struggles, sacrifices, and shattered dreams of a nation at war. Her portrayal of the Civil War from a Confederate perspective gives readers a deeper understanding of the era's complexities and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship. For those seeking to delve into the best historical fiction war books, Hawkins' Renegade Series is an essential addition to their reading list.