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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Over the past week, two of my books have been featured. First, Fool’s Gold Folly was featured on Eva Bielby’s website. The first chapter is posted, so check it out! This novella goes along with the Renegade Series, and tells the story of Patrick Mulligan, a minor character who takes his family to Colorado Territory in search of gold after the Civil War. Here is the link:
A Becharmed Callie Christmas is featured on Books and Brunch. This novella goes along with the Renegade Series as well, and tells the story of Callie Mae Copeland, a girl growing up in north Alabama during the Civil War. Here is the link to my author spotlight:
Once again, the haunted day of Halloween is upon us. It is one of my favorite holidays, because you can dress up to be whatever you want and still get away with it – maybe even score some candy while you’re at it! As you might already know, Halloween originated in Ireland, and was originally a Pagan holiday known as Samhain, which means “summer’s end” in Gaelic. It was a day to celebrate the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. Jack-o-Lanterns also originated in Ireland, and were carved out of rutabagas or turnips.
In honor of the holiday, I would like to share an excerpt from my novel, A Rebel Among Us. This is the third book in the Renegade Series, which tells the story of several families and how their lives interact during the American Civil War. In this excerpt, the main character, David, who is a Confederate soldier, learns about the ancient holiday from his neighbor and close friend, Patrick, who is an Irish immigrant. Enjoy the story and have a safe and fun holiday. Happy Halloween!
On October 31, Patrick arrived with a bottle of whiskey and invited David to partake with him. They stood shivering at the back door, passing the bottle between them.
“‘Tis Samhain tonight, lad. All Hallow’s Eve. Were ye aware of it?”
David nodded. “Where’d you git this whiskey?” he asked.
“Aye, ‘tis a grand thing the Meyers provide me with allowance for such an indulgence,” he replied. He pulled a pipe from his coat pocket and lit it. Puffing away, he shook his head and remarked, “Sure’n ‘tis a far cry from real tobacco.”
A thought crossed David’s mind. “I’ll be right back,” he said.
He went upstairs to his room, grabbed the pouch of tobacco, and brought it back down to his friend.
Patrick peeked inside before taking a deep whiff. “Ah!” he sighed, relishing the pungent aroma. “Might this be the Southern tobacco I’ve heard tell about?”
David grinned. “Jake brought it along for tradin’, and this here’s what’s left.”
Patrick loaded his pipe, relit it, and puffed euphorically, smiling all the while. “‘Tis a wee bit o’ heaven, indeed.” He glanced at his friend. “Now, have ye any scary tales from the Southland that might have me skin crawlin’?”
David thought for a moment, “There’s a story from north Alabama about a place called the Red Bank.”
Raising his eyebrows, Patrick said, “Let’s see if ye might be tellin’ it frightfully enough to send a shiver up me spine.” He happily puffed away.
David grinned. He lowered his voice so that it was a threatening grumble, and delved into his story. Once he had completed the tale of an Indian maiden who had killed herself after losing her baby and had promptly turned into a ghost, he paused.
Patrick puffed silently on his pipe. “Well, now, I have a scarier one.” He puffed again, took a swig from the whiskey bottle, handed it to David, and said, “‘Tis an old tale from the Motherland.”
The wind blew past them, whistling off through the barren fields. Both young men shivered, suddenly aware of the ominous darkness surrounding them.
David forced a nervous laugh before taking a swallow. “All right, Patrick. Let’s hear it.”
He took a puff and slowly exhaled. “There once lived a wealthy lady who was courted by two lords. One of the lords grew so jealous of the other that he plotted to kill his rival. So, one night, he snuck into the unsuspectin’ lad’s bed chamber. But instead of choppin’ off his head—” He said this with so much exuberance that David jumped.
“He accidentally chopped off his legs instead.”
A dog howled in the distance, adding to the nuance of Patrick’s eerie Irish story.
“His torso received a proper burial, but his legs were tossed into a hole in the castle garden and covered with dirt. The murderin’ lord deceived the lady by tellin’ her the other suitor had abandoned his proposal to her. She agreed to marriage. But on their weddin’ night, in walked the two bodiless legs.”
An owl hooted from somewhere off in the empty trees.
“The legs followed the bridegroom relentlessly until the day he died. It’s said that the legs can still be seen walkin’ ‘round by themselves. ‘Tis a true phuca.” Upon this conclusion, Patrick puffed on the pipe. Smoke billowed around his head like an apparition.
“What’s a phuca?” asked David.
“A ghost,” Patrick responded.
Raising a skeptical eyebrow, David snorted. “I reckon that’s the dumbest spook story I ever did hear.”
A gate near the barn caught in the wind and slammed loudly against the fencepost. The two men jumped. They chuckled at their reaction, but immediately felt the terrible chill. Reasoning they would be more comfortable inside, they entered the kitchen, consumed the remainder of the whiskey, and bid each other goodnight. Patrick returned home, and David retired quietly upstairs, careful not to wake the others. Relieved the fireplace had been lit for him, he undressed.
Climbing into bed, he snickered at the thought of two legs unattached to a body, chasing after a rival. Once he’d fallen asleep, however, the thought invaded his dreams. The legs ran toward him. Right behind them rode the headless Union horseman. The torso raised its saber and swung it where its head should have been. Just as the blade came down, David jolted awake. He gasped to catch his breath, realizing, once again, his imagination had gotten the best of him. Slowly, he lay back. Unable to sleep, he listened to the wind rattle the shutters and shake through the skeleton-like tree limbs from outside the frosty, lace-covered windows.
Last weekend, my husband and I returned to Colorado, where we had lived for nearly 25 years. We stayed in Denver, and I took the opportunity to investigate a museum that I had never visited before, the Colorado History Museum. I decided this would be a great place to start researching my next novel for the Renegade Series, book 5, which doesn’t have a title yet. We also had the opportunity to see the legendary Sir Paul McCartney, who performed Saturday night at Coors Field for 2 1/2 hours straight. What a phenomenal concert!
The Colorado History Museum is packed full of all kinds of information about the state, from the gold rush, which took place after the Civil War, to obtaining statehood, up through modern day. It was interesting to see things in the museum that we could relate to personally. My husband cried when he saw the display about the Columbine High School shooting. He was supposed to be there that day but his appointment got moved to the following day, so let’s just say he dodged a bullet on that one. They also had a lot of skiing history, a display on the 90’s, and Native American history specific to the area.
It was interesting to see the huge diorama they have of 1860’s Denver. When I wrote Fool’s Gold Folly, I could only imagine what the streets looked like back then. I’m glad to know that I got it right! You’ll be seeing more of Denver history when the fifth book of the Renegade Series comes out, probably sometime next year. Again, thank you so much for your patronage!
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
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
I would like to share with you one of my favorite scenes from my novel, A Beckoning Hellfire. This is the second book in the Renegade Series, which tells the story of several families and how their lives intertwine during the Civil War.
This excerpt takes place on June 4, 1863. A ball was held at Culpeper Court House, Virginia, days before the Battle of Brandy Station took place on June 9, 1863. (The court house is still there today.) The Battle of Brandy Station was the largest cavalry battle to ever take place on American soil. I hope you enjoy this trip back in time!
On the evening of June 4, Major Ivey Lewis ordered David to deliver a dispatch to General Stuart, which wasn’t unusual since he had been summoned as a courier several times during the past few weeks. Although he was physically tired and emotionally drained from a long week of drilling, he obediently stuck the sealed envelope in his pocket, saddled Renegade, and received directions to the Culpeper Court House.
Once he rode up, he was awestruck by the enchanting scene. Belles in beautiful ball gowns of every color stood out on the lawn with officers attired in dress uniforms. Lively music floated through the air. The song was “Cindy,” one of his favorites.
David couldn’t help but smile as he dismounted. “What’s all this?” he asked a servant, who took hold of Renegade’s reins.
“Massa Stuart’s havin’ a grand ball, suh,” the tall, bearded black man said. “He invited ladies from the whole vicinity. Most came by rail, all the way from Richmond.”
David raised his eyebrows and grinned at the slave. “Is that a fact?” he asked.
“Sho is.” The servant smiled with a nod before tying Renegade to a post.
With eager anticipation, David sauntered toward the courthouse entrance and absorbed the sumptuous sight. The grounds, illuminated with Chinese lanterns, invited him closer. Southern gentry milled around in the warm evening air, the hum of their genteel conversations filling his ears, along with the clink of goblets tapping together. The sky glittered with fireflies, and the lawn was swathed in candlelight. Another song commenced. David recognized that melody as well: “Cumberland Gap.”
He climbed the steps and entered the courthouse, immediately enthralled by what he saw. Couples in ballroom attire danced joyfully in the center of the room, swirling in time to the melody like wispy dandelion seeds floating in the breeze. Several musicians congregated together toward the back of the room, and they appeared to be enjoying themselves just as much. Chatter and laughter intermingled with their lively music. Chandeliers of flickering candles hung from the rafters, and the sweet scent of perfume drifted through the air.
David made his way through the crowd, suddenly mindful of how ordinary he looked. Bashfully, he smiled at the ladies, but they haughtily glanced over him before turning away toward their escorts. He noticed a table of wine, punch, and viands off to the side, which sparked his voracious appetite. The thought crossed his mind that perhaps he could sneak a few tidbits into his pockets on his way out. Spotting General Stuart, he made his way over to him.
“Sir,” he said with a salute.
The general turned from the belle he was conversing with, noticed David, and saluted back.
“I have orders to deliver this to you personally.” David handed him the envelope that had been sealed with wax.
“Very good, Private,” Stuart said.
The general didn’t seem to recognize him. Disappointed, David saluted again and awkwardly remained at General Stuart’s side, waiting for a response. Stuart turned away. Without knowing quite what to do next, David stood there for a few seconds before deciding he had been cold-shouldered, so he turned and made his way back toward the door.
He paused to watch the musicians, who were surrounded by admiring ladies. They stopped their performance momentarily, allowing for applause before proceeding to play “Ring, Ring the Banjo.” Two fiddlers enthusiastically sawed on their instruments. A dark-haired, mustachioed man plucked away on his banjo, and a mulatto servant smiled widely as he played the bones. David remembered what the other troopers had told him about General Stuart’s mulatto footman, Bob, and about the banjo player, Sam Sweeney, who was said to be the brother of the man who had invented the banjo. He also heard that General Stuart was a music lover who never missed an opportunity to be entertained by his musicians. If only they had a guitar, he might find the courage to go up there and sing alongside them, but his heart was too heavy for him to feel exuberant enough to sing. He wished Jake were there to see the grandiose scene. It was so dazzling that he felt like he was in a fairy tale.
He glanced around the room, reminded again of how out of place he was. The young ladies looked upon him with disdain, obviously repulsed by his shabby appearance. The musicians began to play “Cavalier’s Waltz,” prompting dancers to swirl around in synchronized whirlwinds. To his dismay, the food table was too far away for him to attempt thievery without being noticed, so he reluctantly turned and went outside. He met Colonel Von Borcke on the way out and discovered by standing next to him that the Prussian was enormous. The colonel recognized him immediately.
“I’m looking forward to racing your little horse!” he said, laughing as he walked into the courthouse.
David was left alone on the portico. Once again, he wished he could be a part of the celebration, but instead, he let out a sigh, climbed up on Renegade, and rode off into the darkness.
J.D.R. Hawkins 