J.D.R. Hawkins

Tag: book review

  • News About A Becharmed Callie Christmas

    A Becharmed Callie Christmas has been featured a lot lately, and I just wanted to keep you up to speed with what’s been going on. This book is a side story to go along with the Renegade Series, and takes place between books one and two of the series. It tells the story of Callie Mae Copeland, a minor character who has just turned sixteen and is experiencing Christmas in a whole new light with the Civil War approaching it’s second year.

    As I mentioned previously, A Becharmed Callie Christmas was featured on Books and Brunch last week. Now it has been nominated for the Authors Excellence Award in next month’s Literary Honors and Author Recognition event for consideration in their Historical and Holiday Fiction category.

    The book also made it to number one on Goodreads Listopia. This exposure helps the book gain momentum as far as readership and visibility go.

    A Becharmed Callie Christmas has also received several new five-star reviews. I’d like to share a few with you. Here is what readers are saying. Thank you so much, Paul, Betty, Becky, and Glory, for your stellar reviews!

    Paul Wright

    A touching and evocative story set against the backdrop of the Civil War, A Becharmed Callie Christmas captures both the charm and uncertainty of a world on the brink of change. Through Callie Mae’s eyes, we see the innocence of youth collide with the harsh realities of war and loss.

    J.D.R. Hawkins brings warmth and authenticity to her characters while weaving in the historical tension of the era. The festive tone of Christmas contrasts beautifully with the looming darkness of conflict, making this a poignant and memorable read for the season.

    Our book club enjoyed how Hawkins balanced historical detail with emotional depth, a heartfelt reminder that even in uncertain times, hope and family endure.

    Becky Halston

    This book was recently featured in our Books and Brunch club, and it turned out to be such a meaningful read. A Becharmed Callie Christmas starts off feeling light and festive, but it slowly unfolds into something much deeper as the reality of the Civil War sets in.

    Betty Patricia

    Our book club featured A Becharmed Callie Christmas, and I really enjoyed it. J.D.R. Hawkins did an amazing job bringing the Civil War era to life through Callie Mae’s story. Her excitement for Christmas, mixed with the sudden reality of war, made it both emotional and memorable.

    Glory Alex

    We featured Becharmed Callie Christmas by J.D.R. Hawkins in our Hall of Fame event, and it truly touched my heart.

    The story follows Callie Mae Copeland as she prepares for Christmas during the Civil War, a time when joy and uncertainty walk hand in hand. Hawkins beautifully captures that mix of innocence, family, and the bittersweet reality of change.

    A short but powerful read that reminds us how love and hope can shine even in the darkest times. Highly recommended.

    https://www.amazon.com/Becharmed-Callie-Christmas-Story-Renegade/dp/B0CN2D4YMW/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sio1XLdeQCyHa80Li5IcVQ.i0fpiK0UKONy3tNffkH0nWC4yTel1Rp5YMo_AZjYaAw&qid=1762986687&sr=8-1

  • More Five-Star Reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly

    I received several new five-star reviews on Goodreads for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella tells the story about one of the minor characters in the Renegade Series, Patrick Mulligan. After the Civil War ends, Patrick takes his family from Pennsylvania farmland to Colorado Territory in search of gold. But what he finds there is something far more priceless. Thank you so much, Joanna, Jessica, and Swazo, for your flattering reviews!

    Joanna

    Hawkins’ research shines on every page. From dusty mining towns to tense political landscapes, the settings feel immersive and alive. Her characters are equally vivid flawed, hopeful, and driven by both love and survival. The dialogue rings true, and the pacing keeps you turning pages while still giving space for emotional depth.

    Jessica

    J.D.R. Hawkins once again proves her mastery of historical storytelling in Fool’s Gold Folly, the newest installment of The Renegade Series. Set in the tense years following the Civil War, the novel explores how fractured communities and the people within them struggle to rebuild and redefine themselves.

    Swazo

    Hawkins masterfully brings history to life, crafting a setting that feels both vivid and authentic. From the gritty mining towns to the unforgiving frontier landscapes, every detail immerses the reader in the atmosphere of the 1870s. Her careful use of historical elements enriches the story without ever overshadowing it.

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

  • Upcoming Event

    This Saturday, I will be participating in the annual Author’s Fair, which will take place in downtown Redding, California. I will be there signing my books, so if you’re in the neighborhood, stop by! All four books in the Renegade Series will be on sale for half price! Don’t miss your chance to get copies of these books. They make great holiday gifts!

    In other news, Boulder Bookaholics Book Club featured my new book, Fool’s Gold Folly. Here’s what they had to say:

    Event Summary
    The Boulder Bookaholics Book Club hosted a spotlight session featuring Fool’s Gold Folly. Members discussed major themes, characters, and shared personal takeaways. This spotlight allowed the group to engage with the author’s work in depth.

    Engagement Highlights
    Overall Rating: 25 star
    Favorite Themes Discussed: Westward Expansion & the American Dream

    Member Quotes
    “We really enjoyed Fool’s Gold Folly! The story felt real and heartfelt, and we loved how J.D.R. Hawkins brought the Irish immigrant experience to life.”
    “At Boulder Bookaholics, a member said Fool’s Gold Folly highlights immigrant hope and struggle, with
    friendship providing strength in hard times.”

    Thank You
    On behalf of the Boulder Bookaholics Book Club, we thank you for creating such a wonderful book. It was an honor to spotlight your work and share it among our community of readers.

    I also received this flattering email from a fan:

    Hi JDR,

    I came across Fool’s Gold Folly and felt I needed to tell you how deeply it moved me. As someone who spends much of my life surrounded by books, I know how rare it is to find a story that speaks not only to the mind but also to the heart. Yours did both in such a powerful way.

    Patrick Mulligan’s journey is more than just a search for gold. It is the story of resilience, of carrying hope in times of uncertainty, and of what it means to build a life in the face of both promise and peril. Through him, you give voice to the courage of so many who dared to dream of a better future, and that left me both humbled and inspired.

    What touched me most was the way you brought Silas Garvey to life. He was more than a character. He was a reminder that even in illness and hardship, there is still meaning, friendship, and humanity. His presence gave the story a tenderness that lingers long after the final page.

    Thank you for creating a book that is not only rich with history but also rich with heart. It is the kind of work that inspires readers to keep going, to believe in their own strength, and to see the beauty in the bonds we form along the way.

    With admiration and respect,
    Mary

    Thank you, Mary, for your email! And I want to thank you again for your ongoing support. If you haven’t done so yet, please check out my website. There, you will find links to follow me on all my social media pages. https://jdrhawkins.com

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

  • Reviews and News

    I would like to share upcoming news regarding my newest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella ties in with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan, who first shows up in book three of the series, titled A Rebel Among Us. Once the Civil War has ended, Patrick uproots his family from Pennsylvania and takes them to Colorado territory where he hopes to strike it rich. However, he encounters more than he anticipated when he meets an old miner, Silas Garvey. This book is being featured in several online book clubs, and is garnering many more five-star reviews on Goodreads. Here area few:

    Valentina’S

    Fool’s Gold Folly” is the kind of story that lingers in your heart. The way Irish resilience is woven into the narrative made me feel both proud and inspired. A remarkable read that balances grit with hope.

    Alice

    Fool’s Gold Folly” is a moving tribute to the Irish people’s unshakable resilience. The author captures hardship without ever losing sight of hope, which makes this book not only historical but deeply human. I closed it with tears in my eyes and admiration in my heart.

    Cynthia

    This book surprised me. I expected a typical historical drama, but what I found was a layered story of loss, resilience, and survival. The way the characters wrestle with dreams versus reality felt so authentic, and it gave me a new appreciation for Irish history and endurance.

    Dave

    The title hooked me, but the story kept me. There’s a beautiful tension between despair and hope, woven into every chapter. By the end, I felt like I had lived through the struggles myself, a testament to the author’s storytelling.

    Mercy

    Reading this book was like stepping into another era. The hardships felt real, the victories hard-earned. What impressed me most was how universal the themes are, resilience, courage, and the pursuit of something better. It’s Irish at heart, but relatable to all.

    Sam

    Fool’s Gold Folly” blends sorrow and strength in equal measure. It’s the kind of book that forces you to pause, reflect, and appreciate how far human endurance can go. The characters carry both flaws and bravery, which makes them unforgettable.

    In other news, I will be participating at a local author event here in Redding, California. If you’re around, stop by! I will be offering the four major books of the Renegade Series for half price.

    As always, I’d like to invite you to check out my website, jdrhawkins.com, and sign up for my newsletter. There you will find more information about upcoming events, interviews, blog posts, book signings, etc.

    I’ve listed all of my links below. Please like, follow, and share! Again, thank you so much for your ongoing support!

    https://allauthor.com/author/jdrhawkins/

    https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-D.-R.-Hawkins/author/B00B3WCX54?qid=1473908645&sr=8-1&ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

    https://www.facebook.com/jdrhawkins/?ref=hl

    https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1238370.J_D_R_Hawkins

    https://www.instagram.com/jdrhawkins/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdrhawkins/

    https://x.com/JDRHawkins

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC12gW5kbv5FLDH6Qxd9duzw

  • Three New Five-Star Reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly

    I recently received more five-star reviews for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly. This novella goes along with the Renegade Series and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan. Thank you so much, Mac Dougherty, Rebekah Acosta, and Elyse Huber, for your amazing reviews!


    Mac Dougherty

    5.0 out of 5 stars 

    Vivid Scenes That Belong on a Screen

    Reading this book felt like watching a movie unfold. The wagon jerking down a mountain road, the snowy passes glinting under starlight, Briana nervously scrubbing dishes in Mrs. Tydings’ immaculate parlor it all played out like a film in my head. Hawkins has a way of writing cinematically without losing emotional intimacy. I could see the dust rising from wagon wheels, hear the laughter around the fire, and feel the humiliation when Patrick was dismissed in town. The saloon scenes in particular stood out, filled with light, smoke, and the soft rasp of Silas Garvey’s cough. I would love nothing more than to see this story adapted to the screen, because it already reads like it’s halfway there. The landscapes and the humanity are written with stunning clarity.


    Rebekah Acosta

    5.0 out of 5 stars 

    The Opera Scene Took My Breath Away

    The opera chapter is one of the finest pieces of writing I’ve come across in historical fiction. Patrick and Briana entered with joy, dressed simply but proud, only to be shoved aside with the phrase “seats for your kind.” I felt his humiliation so strongly it was like a physical ache. And yet, once the music began, they were swept into awe like everyone else. That contrast prejudice and beauty colliding in the same moment is what makes this novel unforgettable. Hawkins didn’t need explosions or dramatic duels to keep my attention; she used something far more powerful: the sting of words. The description of the stage, the costumes, and the soaring voices was so vivid I could see it all. This scene alone could stand as a short story about hope, art, and resilience. It’s rare to find a book that makes you both angry and uplifted in the same breath.


    Elyse Huber

    5.0 out of 5 stars 

    Silas Garvey Is the Soul of This Novel

    Silas Garvey walked into the story quietly, coughing into his glass at the saloon, but he left an enormous mark on me. His conversations with Patrick were raw and full of wisdom. Silas wasn’t just a side character he was a mirror of mortality, a reminder that dreams can fade but dignity remains. Every time he appeared, I slowed down to savor his words. His presence transformed Patrick’s journey from being only about chasing gold to being about friendship and meaning. Hawkins could have easily written him as a background figure, but instead, she gave him a soul. Watching Silas struggle with his health, yet still find time to encourage Patrick, was both inspiring and heartbreaking. By the time his arc drew to a close, I felt like I had lost a friend. That kind of emotional connection is rare and powerful.

    Fool’s Gold Folly: A Story of Irish Resilience (The Renegade Series): Hawkins, JDR: 9798312529845: Amazon.com: Books

  • Two New Reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly

    I recently received two new five-star reviews for my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly on Amazon. This book ties into the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan, who leaves the Pennsylvania farmland to test his luck at striking it rich during the gold rush to Colorado Territory following the Civil War. Thank you so very much, Cameron Hahn and Fallon Trevino, for your flattering reviews!


    Cameron Hahn

    5.0 out of 5 stars Briana’s Storyline with Mrs. Tydings Is Unforgettable

    Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2025

    Briana quickly became my favorite character, and her arc with Mrs. Tydings was unforgettable. At first, it seemed like she had been given a gift steady work, housing, and a safe place for her children. But slowly the cracks showed, and she was forced to balance gratitude with suffocating control. Hawkins writes her with such depth a woman swallowing her pride, clinging to dignity, and protecting her children at all costs. Moreen’s warning about Mrs. Tydings being a tyrant lingered in my mind, and it came true in ways that broke my heart. What I admired most was Briana’s resilience. She endured, but she never lost her spark. Her small victories felt as powerful as any gold strike. In many ways, her struggles mirror what countless women faced: survival through adaptability, patience, and an unshakable will to keep family intact. She is the quiet hero of this novel.


    Fallon Trevino

    5.0 out of 5 stars A Heartfelt Journey of Struggle and Hope

    Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2025

    From the first scene where Patrick is turned away by a shopkeeper because of the cruel “No Irish Need Apply” sign, I knew this book would grab me. The author does a wonderful job of showing the pain of rejection but also the quiet strength of family. Briana’s gentle faith and the way she keeps her children grounded gave me chills she’s a mother you can’t help but admire. When the family finally finds lodging with Mrs. O’Neill, I actually sighed with relief, as if I were part of their struggles. Hawkins doesn’t just tell you history she makes you feel it. Every meal of watery soup, every tired prayer, every glimmer of hope is written so vividly. The wagon train sections added another layer, showing how strangers bonded under hardship. I closed the book feeling like I had lived through every dusty mile and every hungry night with the Mulligans. This is one of those rare novels that makes you grateful for your own blessings.

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

  • On Sale Now!

    For this week only, Fool’s Gold Folly, in eBook format, is on sale through Amazon for only 99 cents! Now is you chance to pick up my new book for half price! And don’t forget, Fool’s Gold Folly is now also available on Audible!

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Story-Resilience/dp/B0D2MXWCZX/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._rHUKB_G3iO0B5bj4wMI7SVmWhh7bWVefHes23bYCjtm-BOiB2Llbfypkne1YgoZ.h-sObvEneG96XD0j6O1XwfOaOAdhxA8WBhSsZFjJqco&qid=1756325114&sr=8-1

    Here are a few more flattering reviews for Fool’s Gold Folly that I recently received on Goodreads. Once again, thank you for your support, and thank you, Jackie, Brian Smith, and Logan Shaw, for the awesome five-star reviews!

    Jackie

    Heartwarming and Honest

    A beautiful tale of grit, love, and hope. I was instantly swept into Patrick and Briana’s world and found myself rooting for them through every hardship. The historical setting felt authentic, and the family’s resilience brought tears to my eyes. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction with soul.


    Brian Smith

    I found out this book was part of a series after I finished. I will definitely read the rest of the series.

    This is a short book but a great story. I enjoyed it very much.

    Logan Shaw

    A Touching Portrait of the Irish-American Dream

    This book reminded me how deeply immigrants have shaped the American story. The Mulligans are a lovable family, and their journey—from discrimination in Denver to chasing gold in the mountains—is both emotional and inspiring. I couldn’t put it down!

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._rHUKB_G3iO0B5bj4wMI7SVmWhh7bWVefHes23bYCjtm-BOiB2Llbfypkne1YgoZ.h-sObvEneG96XD0j6O1XwfOaOAdhxA8WBhSsZFjJqco&qid=1756325114&sr=8-1

  • More Amazing Reviews for A Beautiful Glittering Lie

    I’ll have to admit, I don’t check Goodreads as much as I should. Upon looking today, I came across some awesome reviews that were posted 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, Harold Cheetham, Donna Weir, and Amber E., for your amazing reviews!

    Harold Cheetham

    52 reviews

    1 follower

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    August 20, 2025

    Another great Civil War novel. Plenty of action. I look forward to reading more in the series. Received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.

    Donna Weir

    3 reviews

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    February 19, 2025

    J.D.R. Hawkins really places you into the Civil War with this book. For someone who is not a history buff, the beginning starts off a little slower. The storyline and characters draw you in and keep you reaching for the next chapter. Making this a book that is hard to put down. Can’t wait to continue this adventure with the next book.

    Amber E

    8 reviews

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    August 15, 2025

    The book itself was really good. Granted, it did take me a while to get into it. I was also reading the promotional copy, so it was hard to read because the font was super small & not able to be adjusted. Which was likely the reason it took me so long to be able to read it.

    https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Glittering-Lie-Novel-Civil/dp/1643619942/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bw-GZ-m-0rMwpyOH1t0TPG_U8RVEwxonHsItTJEDdWdvJkH0S4o1N_GE9XjreMtSj6WeMJtrXiNwAy6e1l347MAd-YeswoCMxRWY3tRdW_4.w5o_M_6HYgUZA1sYxNxKEpm6ebpz96newSEeCdN3LIE&qid=1755718667&sr=8-1

  • Fans Rave About Fool’s Gold Folly

    I have received several emails in regard to my latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly, and would like to share some of them with you. This book ties in with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of one of the minor characters, Patrick Mulligan. Patrick’s desire to strike it rich in Colorado after the Civil War turns into something much more than gold lust. Here is what fans have to say:

    (From Camille Rhodes Brown)

    I came across Fool’s Gold Folly, and from the first lines of your description, I felt its pulse the lure of possibility, the grit of survival, and the fragile line between hope and danger. Patrick Mulligan’s journey isn’t just about gold; it’s about the deep human hunger for a better life and the resilience it takes to chase it.

    You’ve given readers more than a historical adventure — you’ve given them a window into the Irish immigrant experience during one of the most volatile times in American history. The wilderness of Colorado Territory, the raw hunger for fortune, and the bonds of friendship forged in hardship all feel alive in your telling. Silas Garvey’s presence, with his dark secret and failing health, adds a poignancy that makes this story not just gripping but deeply human.

    (From Grace Champ)

    I just finished reading Fool’s Gold Folly, and I was deeply moved by Patrick Mulligan’s journey  not just westward, but inward, as he confronts the promises and perils of a country still healing from war. His resilience, ambition, and the fragile friendships he forms in Breckenridge capture something truly special: the heart of the immigrant dream set against the raw edge of frontier life.

    You’ve brought to life a piece of history that still feels incredibly relevant:  the push for new beginnings, the weight of personal loss, and the quiet strength of Irish communities carving out space in post-Civil War America.

    Thank you so much, Grace and Camille, for your kind words!

    I am always looking for positive reviews, so please post your reviews to Amazon and/or Goodreads. And don’t forget, this novel is available as an audio book too!

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3C2LE8KYRELF4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.m1E2lQgHJOkXYl9c3PiDhCVmWhh7bWVefHes23bYCjtm-BOiB2Llbfypkne1YgoZ.o5hyFZyy84WgBwK0ZnyqDlN2mQvhXXCv65sPZoG07LI&dib_tag=se&keywords=fool%27s+gold+folly&qid=1754522027&sprefix=fool%27s+gold+folly%2Caps%2C192&sr=8-1

  • Fool’s Gold Folly Makes Round 3!

    My latest book, Fool’s Gold Folly, has made it into round three of the best cover of the month. The contest is held by AllAuthor. It is really exciting to have my book make it this far! If you haven’t yet voted for the cover, please do! If you already voted, please vote again! Thank you so much! Here is the voting link: https://allauthor.com/cover-of-the-month/19730/

    I wanted to share a few more reviews of the book with you. These are all five-star reviews posted on Goodreads. Thank you, Logan Shaw, Jackie, Clifford Day, Julius J., and Daniel Rumley for your amazing reviews!

    A Touching Portrait of the Irish-American Dream

    Logan Shaw –

    This book reminded me how deeply immigrants have shaped the American story. The Mulligans are a lovable family, and their journey—from discrimination in Denver to chasing gold in the mountains—is both emotional and inspiring. I couldn’t put it down!

    Heartwarming and Honest

    Jackie –

    A beautiful tale of grit, love, and hope. I was instantly swept into Patrick and Briana’s world and found myself rooting for them through every hardship. The historical setting felt authentic, and the family’s resilience brought tears to my eyes. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction with soul.

    Clifford Day –

    I was so enthusiastic for this book and, of course, I didn’t have a chance to get on. All-in-all I really enjoyed the book. I’ll definitely be reading more by this author.

    Julius J. –

    The story was remarkable, kept me absorbed all throughout.

    Daniel Rumley –

    LOVE it! The author has such a dazzling way of keeping you engrossed with words.

    https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Gold-Folly-Resilience-Renegade/dp/B0DZP24XXM/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8