Photo: J.D.R. Hawkins, author of the acclaimed Renegade Series, brings history to life through her insightful and heartfelt storytelling.
Illuminating the Human Spirit Through Historical Fiction
J.D.R. Hawkins blends meticulous research with emotional storytelling, offering a fresh Confederate perspective on the Civil War through her Renegade Series and works like Horses in Gray.
J .D.R. Hawkins has carved a unique niche in the world of historical fiction, offering readers a deeply empathetic and meticulously researched perspective on the American Civil War. As one of the few female authors writing from a Confederate viewpoint, Hawkins brings a fresh and compelling lens to a period often dominated by grand narratives of battles and generals. Instead, her work focuses on the intimate struggles of families and individuals, capturing the profound human cost of war with both precision and emotional depth.
Her acclaimed Renegade Series stands as a testament to her storytelling prowess. Beginning with A Beautiful Glittering Lie and continuing through titles like A Rebel Among Us and Double-Edged Sword, Hawkins chronicles the journey of the Summers family of Alabama. These ordinary people are thrust into extraordinary circumstances, their trials and triumphs reflecting the lived reality of countless others whose lives were irrevocably altered by the conflict. Hawkins’ ability to weave authentic historical detail with rich characterisation ensures that readers don’t just observe events—they feel them.
Hawkins’ exploration of the Civil War extends beyond the battlefield. In Horses in Gray, she shines a light on the role of warhorses, preserving stories that might otherwise be lost to history. Her short stories, such as A Becharmed Callie Christmas and Fool’s Gold Folly, delve into personal and often quieter perspectives, enriching the broader tapestry of the series. Through these narratives, Hawkins demonstrates that history is not solely about grand events but also about the tender, fragile moments that define humanity.
Hawkins’ authentic, empathetic narratives breathe life into history, making the Civil War’s human struggles unforgettable.
At the core of her work lies a deep desire to illuminate the resilience of the human spirit amid suffering. By blending artistry, music, and storytelling, Hawkins transforms history from a distant record into a vivid, lived experience. Her writing reminds us that even in the darkest times, creativity and hope endure.
A Journey Through History
Hawkins’ fascination with the Civil War began with a visit to the Gettysburg battlefield. “I was so impressed by what I saw that I knew I wanted to write about it,” she recalls. “But I wanted to tell a story that was different from the ones I had read.” While many books focus on Union soldiers or high-ranking officers, Hawkins chose to explore the Southern perspective, believing it to be an often-overlooked narrative. Her protagonist, David Summers, is a young farmer whose family does not own slaves, providing a nuanced portrayal of Southern life during the war.
“I wanted to write something different from the books I had read,
which often focused on officers or Union soldiers.” – J.D.R. Hawkins
To achieve historical accuracy, Hawkins dedicates months to research for each book. She reads journals, letters, and countless nonfiction works, ensuring that every detail—whether it’s a battle scene or daily life—rings true. For instance, A Beautiful Glittering Lie is based on the journal of R.T. Cole, an adjutant in the 4th Regiment, Alabama Volunteer Infantry. While her main characters are fictional, their experiences are grounded in real events, blending history with vivid storytelling.
Exploring Unique Perspectives
One of Hawkins’ most distinctive works, Horses in Gray, highlights the often-forgotten role of warhorses. “After hearing a talk about these horses, I was inspired to delve deeper,” she explains. “Their stories fascinated me, and I felt they deserved to be remembered.” Similarly, her short stories, such as A Becharmed Callie Christmas, explore the war’s impact on younger characters, offering a poignant contrast to the broader narrative of the Renegade Series.
Hawkins’ dedication to capturing diverse perspectives extends to her characters as well. David Summers, her protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation throughout the series. Beginning as a 16-year-old boy, he is forced to mature quickly in the face of unimaginable horrors. Hawkins admits that writing his character arc was both challenging and rewarding, as it required her to confront the emotional toll of war head-on.
Themes and Inspiration
Through her work, Hawkins aims to convey the complexities of life during the 1860s. “The Civil War impacted everyone—women, children, immigrants, and Native Americans alike,” she says. “It was a pivotal moment in American history, shaping everything from slavery to Westward expansion.” By focusing on ordinary people, she provides a window into the era that is both educational and deeply moving.
Hawkins’ background as an artist and songwriter also influences her writing. Music plays a significant role in her novels, reflecting both her personal passion and the cultural importance of music during the Civil War. “General Stuart, whom David serves under, was a music lover,” she notes. “Incorporating these elements adds another layer of authenticity to the story.”
Advice for Aspiring Writers
For those looking to write historical fiction, Hawkins emphasises the importance of thorough research. “Readers expect authenticity, especially when it comes to well-documented periods like the Civil War,” she says. “But it’s equally important to tell a compelling story that brings characters to life. Don’t let the history overshadow the humanity.”
J.D.R. Hawkins’ work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the past. Through her richly detailed narratives and deeply human characters, she ensures that the voices of history are not forgotten, offering readers a poignant and immersive glimpse into a transformative era.
Source: Reader’s House
