J.D.R. Hawkins doesn't just write about history—she brings it to life. Double-Edged Sword: A Novel of Reconstruction is the fourth installment in her award-winning Renegade Series. Set in post-Civil War Alabama, this novel pulls readers into a time of uncertainty, pain, and hope.
A New Battle on Familiar Soil
The story centers on David Summers, a former Confederate cavalryman returning home with his new wife. But Alabama isn't the place he remembers. The war may be over, but its scars run deep.
David expects to pick up the pieces and start fresh. Instead, he walks into a community changed by loss, bitterness, and a struggle for identity. Life after war proves to be just as turbulent as life during it.
Old Enemies, New Trouble
One of the central conflicts in Double Edged Sword comes from David's rekindled feud with longtime rival Stephen Montgomery. Their animosity hasn't faded—it's only grown stronger.
When the situation escalates, David finds himself in court, forced to defend not just his actions but his entire character. The trial puts the town's loyalty, memory, and willingness to forgive to the ultimate test.
Authentic and Raw Storytelling
Hawkins nails the setting. From the language to the customs, every detail feels genuine. You're not just reading about the Reconstruction era—you're living in it. The book captures the confusion of a region trying to redefine itself, one day at a time.
But it's not all about history. The emotional depth sets this novel apart. David's internal battles are just as gripping as the external ones. His character is layered, relatable, and stubborn in all the right ways.
What Critics Are Saying
Double-Edged Sword has earned high praise from readers and reviewers alike. It was honored with the 2023 John Esten Cooke Fiction Award and the B.R.A.G. Medallion.
Kirkus Reviews applauded the book's character development and vivid portrayal of the post-war South. Amazon and Goodreads readers have echoed that sentiment, calling it both gripping and emotionally honest.
A Standalone Gem in the Renegade Series
Though it's the fourth book in the series, this novel works well on its own. You don't need to be caught up on the previous books to understand or appreciate this one.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Hawkins or just discovering her work, Double-Edged Sword delivers a powerful, satisfying read.
Where to Get It
Available in both paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon, this novel is easy to get your hands on. If you're into historical fiction that doesn't hold back, this one's worth the read.
The Final Word
If you're looking for a story with grit, heart, and a real sense of time and place, Double-Edged Sword deserves a spot on your shelf. It's more than just a war story—it's about what comes after, and how hard it is to rebuild when the past won't let go.
