J.D.R. Hawkins

One bullet can make a man a hero… or a casualty.

Archive for the tag “Civil War”

06 Dec 2023

A Becharmed Callie Christmas Receives Amazing Review

My latest book, A Becharmed Callie Christmas, has received a wonderful review from The U.S. Review of Books. Thank you so much, Toby Berry, for your review!

A Becharmed Callie Christmas: A Story of the Civil War
(The Renegade Series) J. D. R. Hawkins

Book review by Toby Berry


“It seemed the war wasn’t as glamorous as she had been told.”


In this novel of historical fiction, the author delivers the flavor and essence of high society life in the South during the Civil War era. The charmed and unfazed young belles get glimpses of the outside world, though they tend to quickly look away. They are a living portrait of joyful naïveté and innocence. The main character, Callie Copeland, plans parties and thinks about boys. She is a privileged and sheltered sixteen-year-old beauty, and she is well aware of it. Her cares about the war are usually remote, but sometimes bubble to the surface, “She suddenly realized how fragile life was. So many soldiers had died, and so many families had lost their loved ones. She was one of the lucky ones.”


This book could serve as a companion to the novel Gone with the Wind with respect to its focus on the cares of young, privileged ladies of the 1860s:


“There would be no more worries until after the Yule, and she would make happy, even if it meant appearing insensitive.”

Perhaps the best elements within the narrative are the artful descriptions that take readers right into the life of the South’s elite with their details of the antebellum homes, rooms, and decor. “A thick pink quilt covered her four-poster bed. A fire crackled in the white marble fireplace at the opposite end of the room.” The message is subtle but obvious that war is unspeakably terrible, even amongst those who are living more remotely and are less aware of the ugliness of military conflict directly. As all good authors do, Hawkins shows rather than tells, never preaching. The book ends each chapter with a letter home from the war front. It brings the juxtaposing viewpoints to the forefront. In short, Hawkins’ novel is exquisitely done.

  • The US Review of Books
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28 Nov 2023

A Becharmed Callie Christmas Reaches #1 on Amazon!

My new short story, A Becharmed Callie Christmas, has reached #1 on Amazon! This is amazing, since the book has only been out a few weeks. Here are the stats:

  1. #1 in History of the U.S. Confederacy: This book has topped the charts in this category, reflecting its significant impact and resonance with readers.
  2. #1 in 90-Minute History Short Reads: This achievement highlights the book’s compelling storytelling and its appeal to history enthusiasts.
  3. #4 in American Historical Romance: Achieving a top spot in this highly competitive category is a testament to this book’s captivating narrative and emotional depth.

Thanks to everyone for your support!

I’d like to share with you some book teasers for the book. Let me know what you think!

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21 Nov 2023

New Release!

I have a new release! I’m very excited to introduce A Becharmed Callie Christmas, a short story that goes along with the Renegade Series, and takes place approximately between book 1, A Beautiful Glittering Lie, and Book 2, A Beckoning Hellfire. This is the story of Callie Mae Copeland, a minor character in the series, and how Christmas 1862 affects her. Here is the back cover blurb:

Christmas comes but once a year … but will it be different this Christmas?


Callie Mae Copeland is the only child of affluent landowner, Sullivan Copeland, and his wife, Faye. Because Callie has been doted on her entire life, she is pampered and outspoken. Although the Civil War is looming and is in its second year, it hasn’t affected the Copelands or their neighbors in north Alabama too much … yet.


Once she turns sixteen, Callie realizes the influence she has over boys her age and uses her flirtatious graces to her advantage. She turns her sights on Christmas and is determined to do everything in her power to make the Copeland’s annual Christmas party a success. Although money is tight, she convinces her father to buy material for her stunning new Christmas gown. She can’t wait for the party so that she can impress her beau, his best friend, and all the other guests who are invited.


But following the party, Callie is abruptly faced with the realization that the war is closer than she imagined, and everything is uncertain. A terrifying thought consumes her. Will this be the last Christmas she will ever see in her family’s old antebellum home? Will anything ever be the same again?

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08 Nov 2023

Cover Reveal for New Release Coming Soon!

My new book, A Becharmed Callie Christmas, will be released soon! This is a short story about one of the characters in the Renegade Series, Callie Mae Copeland. Her story centers around Christmas 1862, and how her world is rapidly changing because of the Civil War. I will keep you posted and let you know when the book is live! I will also be having a giveaway, so stay tuned! Thanks again for all your support!

Back cover blurb:

Christmas comes but once a year … but will it be different this Christmas?


Callie Mae Copeland is the only child of affluent landowner, Sullivan Copeland, and his wife, Faye. Because Callie has been doted on her entire life, she is pampered and outspoken. Although the Civil War is looming and is in its second year, it hasn’t affected the Copelands or their neighbors in north Alabama too much yet.


Once she turns sixteen, Callie realizes the influence she has over boys her age, and uses her flirtatious graces to her advantage. She turns her sights on Christmas, and is determined to do everything in her power to make the Copeland’s annual Christmas party a success. Although money is tight, she convinces her father to buy material for her stunning new Christmas gown. She can’t wait for the party so that she can impress her beau, his best friend, and all the other guests who are invited. Even her cousin will be there!


But following the party, Callie is abruptly faced with the realization that the war is closer than she imagined, and everything is uncertain. A terrifying thought consumes her. Will this be the last Christmas she will ever see in her family’s old antebellum home? Will anything ever be the same again?

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02 Nov 2023
2 Comments

Melting Lee

Last week, the city of Charlottesville, Virginia decided to have a magnificent piece of artwork destroyed. A statue of Robert E. Lee was melted down after being cut into pieces. The statue had presided over downtown Charlottesville for nearly a century. It was destroyed at an unidentified foundry “somewhere in the U.S. south,” per the Washington Post, which reported organizers are withholding the exact location for safety reasons. A community initiative dubbed “Swords Into Plowshares” plans to use the bronze ingots to create a new work of public art it intends to gift to the city.

“Now we embark upon an opportunity to create something beautiful and positive,” Jalane Schmidt, one of the project’s lead organizers, said in a statement.

I can only imagine what that will be.

One of my friends, Miss Teresa Roane, who was a curator at the Museum of the Confederacy before it was shut down, phrased it eloquently:

Friends contacted me today (Saturday) because they were upset about the melting down of the Lee memorial in Charlottesville. I thought I would share the end of my presentation “Robert E. Lee from Engineer to President.” I hope that this will give you some comfort and strength.

In conclusion, we are now living in difficult times. There are organizations that want to eradicate Confederate history and heritage. However, no matter how they may try, one cannot eliminate the memory of Robert E. Lee.

His presence is everywhere especially if one visits Fort Monroe in Virginia, Fort Pulaski in Georgia or views the mighty Mississippi River. His brilliant military leadership is still part of the curriculum in schools around the world. Washington College now known as Washington and Lee University was saved by Lee’s leadership. Most of all, he lives on in the hearts of the Southern people. I want to conclude with a prayer of Lee’s: “Help me to be, to think, to act what is right because it is right; make me truthful, honest and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me.”

(Special thanks to Teresa Roane)

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24 Oct 2023

A Beautiful Glittering Lie Receives Another Five-Star Review

My novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie, received this five-star review recently. The book is the first one 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, Michele Klawitter, for your wonderful review!

Michele Klawitter

5.0 out of 5 stars 

Beautiful lies for sure

Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2023

Verified Purchase

This book is a historical fiction centered around the Civil War. Not for the weak hearted. The POV in this is from the south so keep that in mind. Not for everyone but a good read. Great job to the author.

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19 Oct 2023

Fantastic Review for A Beautiful Glittering Lie

I just received this amazing review for my novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie. This book is the first one 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, Seth Fishman, for your very in-depth review!

“Upon coming across your book, I was immediately drawn in, and I believe that its message has been effectively communicated to me. Please allow me to discuss the strengths of the book as I share my assessment of it.

Book Review: “A Beautiful Glittering Lie: A Novel of the Civil War” (The Renegade Series Book 1)

“A Beautiful Glittering Lie” offers a compelling and immersive journey back to the tumultuous period of the American Civil War. The novel paints a vivid picture of the country’s division, with its rich historical backdrop and a poignant exploration of the toll the war takes on a family and their community. Through well-drawn characters and detailed storytelling, the book presents an emotionally charged and historically accurate portrayal of a nation torn apart.

Key Points:

Civil War Setting: The book expertly captures the atmosphere and tensions of the American Civil War, transporting readers to the spring of 1861 when the nation is on the brink of a devastating conflict. It provides historical context, illustrating the fracture between the Confederacy and the Union.

Character-Centered Narrative: The novel revolves around the Summers family, with a particular focus on Hiram Summers, a father who makes the difficult decision to enlist in the Confederate Army. The characters are multi-dimensional and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with their experiences and emotions.

The Impact on Families: The story delves into the personal and emotional toll the Civil War exacts on families and communities. It underscores the sacrifices and hardships endured by those left behind as well as those who go to war. The anguish of separation and the longing for news from loved ones are central themes.

Adventures and Sacrifices: The narrative offers a dual perspective by following Hiram’s journey to the frontlines and his son David’s quest for adventure at home. These parallel storylines allow for a broader exploration of the war’s impact, revealing how both father and son face challenges, make sacrifices, and experience personal growth.

Exploration of Naïveté: The book highlights the innocence and naïveté of a young nation, showing how the outbreak of war forces individuals and communities to confront the harsh realities of conflict. It explores how preconceived notions of war and its glory are shattered by the grim truth.

Historical Authenticity: The novel is well-researched and offers a historically accurate portrayal of the Civil War, from battles and strategies to the social and emotional aspects of the time. This authenticity adds depth and credibility to the storytelling.

“A Beautiful Glittering Lie” is a historical novel that successfully blends an engaging narrative with a poignant exploration of the American Civil War’s impact on a family and a nation. It provides a window into the sacrifices and challenges faced by individuals during this tumultuous period in American history. This book will resonate with readers who appreciate historical fiction that brings the past to life and offers a personal perspective on a defining moment in the nation’s history.

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11 Oct 2023

More Five-Star Reviews for A Beautiful Glittering Lie

My novel, A Beautiful Glittering Lie, has received more five-star reviews! 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, Jeannine Wickliffe and Anne-Marie Goyette, for your fantastic reviews!

Loved this story of one family’s life during the Civil War from the Confederate side. The Summer’s family lives in Alabama and the father joins the Confederate Army. I greatly appreciate that even though a work of fiction the author makes sure that historical accuracy is given on specific events. The author brings out fact that even though emancipation proclamation was given after war started it only freed slaves in Confederate states and not Union states. The author provides many details that are overlooked by today’s history. This book should be read by all high schools.

This book takes you back in time. You feel the effects the Civil War had on families. You enjoy this well written book as the characters and the time setting come to life.

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04 Oct 2023

Confederate Symbols in State Flags

I find it interesting that nearly every Southern state has retained its Confederate heritage in its state flag. The flags display representations of the Southern Cross (Alabama, Florida and North Carolina, for instance) or other Confederate flags, such as the Bonnie Blue flag (Georgia and Texas for example). There are a few exceptions to this, like the Mississippi state flag, which was changed in 2021 from this:

to this.

I hate to say it, but in my humble opinion, a flower has no place on a state flag. In fact, it looks kind of wimpy. However, certain PC woke persons just couldn’t stand having the Confederate battle flag represented on their state flag, where it had been for 127 years, so they did away with it. The removal of the Confederate battle flag from the new design was never approved by voters directly. It’s my understanding that this issue may come up again and be voted on in the near future.

I also find it interesting that my new state of residence, California, has its state flag tied to the Confederacy. I’ll bet the PC politicians here don’t know that!

The bear flag flew over Sutter’s Fort in 1846 and was resurrected by secessionists in 1861 to show support for the Confederacy. It was flown on many official buildings, including at the top of the State house. It was eventually taken down by Unionists, and a new version of the flag replaced it. This is the California state flag as we know it today, which flies over the Capitol Building in Sacramento, as well as various other state and Federal buildings around the state.

The next time you look at those state flags, you might just be looking at some hidden or long-forgotten pieces of history sewn into their fields.

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27 Sep 2023
2 Comments

This is Disturbing

As an author, I subscribe to many publications and newsletters that pertain to the Civil War in order to conduct research for my books. I came across one article which I thought was distressing. It seems the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee offered a theology workshop to its clergy titled “Confronting Confederate Monuments: Preaching, Liturgy, and Leadership for Change.” I have to wonder just what was taught in this workshop, especially with a title like “confronting Confederate monuments.” Really? Since when is a Confederate monument confrontational? Anyway, the article went on to say that the workshop was for three days and two nights, and was designed to equip clergy with tools for confronting Confederate monuments in their churches and communities. The cost was only $150!

https://theology.sewanee.edu/

I find this appalling, to say the least. What are they teaching our kids, not to mention our pastors? Bizarre! Let me set the record straight – monuments are not racist, they do not represent or depict racism, and anyone who believes otherwise is, in my opinion, a racist. Monuments were erected all over the country after the war to honor heroes, and those who defended their homelands with their lives. It is written in our Constitution that any state has the right to secede, so Confederates were not traitors by any means, but patriots in their own right. I hate to say it, but I’m just waiting for the next wave of destruction to sweep across the nation in the form of monument desecration. I really hope that doesn’t happen.

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