Double-Edged Sword

Renegade #4

by J.D.R. Hawkins

The Civil War has ended.

Confederate cavalryman, David Summers, returns home to Alabama, taking his new wife, Anna, with him. Upon arrival, he understands how much the war has changed him and has scarred his homeland. Faced with challenges of transition, he learns how to navigate his new world, along with the pain and trauma of his past. He is also forced to confront his foes, including Stephen Montgomery. Their hatred for one another inevitably boils over into a fierce confrontation, whereby David is arrested.

Will the jury believe his side of the story, even though he is an ex-Confederate? Or will he be hung for his crime?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

438 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 18, 2022

About the author

J.D.R. Hawkins is an Amazon, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling, award-winning author known for bringing the Civil War to life through a rare and compelling Confederate front-line perspective.

Her acclaimed Renegade Series follows a family from north Alabama whose lives are forever altered by the war’s devastation and emotional toll. The series includes A Beautiful Glittering Lie, winner of the 2013 John Esten Cooke Fiction Award and the 2012 B.R.A.G. Medallion; A Beckoning Hellfire, an Amazon bestseller and 2022 B.R.A.G. Medallion winner; A Rebel Among Us, recipient of the 2017 John Esten Cooke Fiction Award and the 2022 B.R.A.G. Medallion; and Double-Edged Sword, winner of both the 2023 B.R.A.G. Medallion and the 2023 John Esten Cooke Fiction Award.

In addition to her historical fiction, Hawkins has published the nonfiction work Horses in Gray: Famous Confederate Warhorses. She has also written two short stories connected to the Renegade Series: A Becharmed Callie Christmas and Fool’s Gold Folly.

Ms. Hawkins is a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, the Historical Novel Society, the International Women’s Writing Guild, Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, and Pikes Peak Writers. She is also an artist and a singer/songwriter.

Reviews

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

great

“Double-edged sword” by J.D.R. Hawkins is a startling novel full of amazing life lessons and heavy hardships. The hassles and distresses that are caused by war trauma will become more than evident in this book. It is insane how much turmoil and chaos are provoked though violence and trauma in people's heads. I personally found it very interesting to get to follow the post-war life of a confederate and to experience his ups and downs through the written words of Hawkins. It helped me to better understand what veterans have to go through and that there is definitely more support needed, for those who gave everything of themselves for the society. I can definitely recommend this book, it is gripping!

[Greg Seeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Double-Edged Sword, J.D.R. Hawkins continues the love story of David Summers and his bride Anna (A Rebel Among Us) as the Civil War ends and the awkward period of Reconstruction begins. The story takes the couple back to David’s home state of Alabama where the harsh terms of Reconstruction come to odds with the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, catching between them the youthful couple and David’s family who wish nothing more than to simply go on with their lives.
The conditions depicted in Double-Edged Sword are not pretty but are vividly brought to life in this well-researched, well-written novel. Every page leaves the reader wanting more and the following pages certainly deliver. When the couple leave the world of scalawags and carpetbaggers and travel north to Anna’s home state of Pennsylvania, they encounter a whole new set of problems that threaten to throw an already shaky marriage onto the rocks. The bitterness of war continues as Northerners obsess over the near-breakup of the Republic and those whom they hold responsible.
For any true fan of historical fiction and, particularly this divisive period in American history, Double -Edged Sword is not to be missed. Read it now. You’ll be glad you did and it will leave you clamoring for David and Anna’s next adventure. I give a solid five stars.

[Joshua Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

JDR Hawkins brings us a really interesting and human look at the Reconstruction era with Double-Edged Sword! With the end of the Civil War, ex Confederate David Summers returns to a war torn home and begins to attempt to pick up the pieces. But when a confrontation erupts with an old enemy, David is forced to stand trial. Hawkins always brings the past to life so vividly and seamlessly, and seeing Reconstruction through David and his family’s eyes was very deep and intriguing! I especially found the court case and the arguments around fairness in a postwar Union to be particularly fascinating, and I honestly had to keep flipping forward to figure out what would become of David! If you love historic fiction, the Civil War era, or even court dramas, definitely dive back into the deep South with Double-Edged Sword!

[Diane R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double-Edged Sword is a riveting historical journey that captures the deep emotional scars left by the Civil War. J.D.R. Hawkins masterfully portrays the struggles of David Summers as he returns to a changed Alabama, balancing love, loyalty, and the weight of past traumas. The tension between personal redemption and societal judgment creates a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking.

Hawkins’ storytelling shines in his vivid depiction of post-war challenges, from navigating the remnants of conflict to confronting bitter foes. The complex dynamic between David and Stephen Montgomery keeps readers on edge, while the moral dilemmas and courtroom suspense elevate the story beyond a typical historical drama. The novel is as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed, making it a must-read for fans of historically grounded, character-driven fiction.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reconstruction

After the Civil War the United States was in turmoil, and some of the turmoil was experienced by the soldiers when they came home from the fighting. In this book the 4th of the series, David Summers returns to Alabama with his wife Anna and tries to pick up the pieces of his old life. As in the other book in the series that I've read this one is very well researched, and well written. I really enjoyed the story the fictional characters set in historical times. David was very well written that he was not the same person as he was when he entered the war. And Anna although supportive struggled with coping with her husband who is no longer the same. A very good book about a tumultuous time and US history.

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double-Edged Sword, by JDR Hawkins, is the fourth book of the popular Renegade series. As the Civil War concludes, cavalryman David Summers goes back to Alabama with Ann, his new wife. There, he rekindles his feud with former enemy Stephen Montgomery. Their escalating conflict eventually leads to a climactic showdown. When Summers ends up in a courtroom fighting for his freedom, his status as a former Confederate biases the jury against him.

This is historical fiction, and one of the better examples of the genre you are likely to find. The characters are fully realized, and the scene building and excellent dialogue move things along at a brisk pace. This is entertaining stuff, but there are serious and though-provoking concepts at play that add unexpected depth to this narrative.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captivating story !

It was great writing for this author and I admire the historical references, pseudo may it be but it seems believable because of the mixed in with a few factual events. The author has a way with words where I feel like for every scene, she describes I am right there with David. David’s character was very well written and as the story seems like it's not over yet, I look forward to seeing what happens in the future. Other minor characters or sub characters are also written with much thought. It is such a very well told story, I want to read more. I enjoyed reading this book and will look forward to other novels by this author.

[Mayra · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Double-Edged Sword," J.D.R. Hawkins masterfully captures the tumultuous aftermath of the Civil War through the eyes of Confederate veteran David Summers. As he grapples with personal demons and societal upheaval, Summers' journey resonates deeply. What I appreciated most was Hawkins' ability to depict the complexities of Reconstruction-era South. I believe this novel offers a poignant exploration of resilience and redemption amidst chaos. An engrossing read for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Story!

''Double-Edged Sword'' tells the story of a soldier who returns home after the Civil War and has to start a new life carrying on his shoulder the remains of the war and also everything he left in his house before leaving. This is a beautiful novel with so many nuances that you will enjoy reading it. I highly recommend this series of books because it portrays very well the psychological damage that a war left on a person.

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Double-Edged Sword: A Novel of Reconstruction" by J.D.R. Hawkins is a history exploration of post-Civil War challenges and personal redemption. Hawkins skillfully weaves a narrative of trauma, growth, and confrontation, particularly in David's clash with Stephen Montgomery. While the writing style leans towards the pedestrian, the character development shines, making this book a compelling read for historical fiction enthusiasts.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very captivating book following the aftermath of the Civil War, the novel follows a veteran returning home with his wife and all the challenges that arise when trying to rebuild their lives. The author does a really good job with the description of the scars left by the war and how that affects the characters.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful storyline and read

[Joshua M. Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starts off a little slow but builds into a decent book. About a man who just can’t quite get it right and stumbles into troubles despite his best efforts to do good in life.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this well written book

[Danielle Melo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read! Highly recommend if you like civil war reads. ☆☆☆☆

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

• This book gives a vivid picture of the South after the Civil War. Best of all the author gives us an inside view of the people left to live the horrid post-war situation.
The prime characters are David, a proud Southern who fought in the war, and Anna a determined young girl from Pennsylvania. This book is a continuation of their love story as described in A Rebel Among Us.
Anna and David, decide to return to the South to break the bad news of David’s father’s death as well as that of his best friend, Jake. The year is 1865 and David is appalled by the ruins he witnesses as they head for Alabama. He sees firsthand the poverty and desperation of the people.
Although Anna had agreed to accompany David to his hometown, she feels very out of place there. People look at her with anger as they see her as a Northerner responsible for their sorry plight. David too fares no better as they consider him a traitor for having married a Yankee. The young couple has to face many difficult moments but their true love wins out.
The author, while giving us many historical facts, introduces us to interesting characters. Kit, David’s father’s friend proves to be anything but a true friend and causes the family preoccupations as they come to doubt his intentions. Callie, Jake’s girlfriend is convinced that David will marry her but she refuses to accept the fact that David is married to Anna. Ann too has a problem with Stephen, a neighbor in Pennsylvania who wanted Ann for himself and believes David took her away from him.
The plot gets involved and David and Anna are forced to cling to each other for comfort. Will there be a happy ending for them, after all? I invite you to read this intriguing book and find out.

[Lucia Maranghello · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doube-Edged Sword: A Novel of Reconstruction is the final book in the Renegades series.
David Summers, an ex-Confederate, returns home from the civil war to his new wife, Anna. Like all soldiers coming home after the end of battle, David is having a tough time adjusting to his new-old life, having severe trauma of the events that surrounded him in the Civil War.

Certainly, a dramatically romantic post-war story, since he confronts his ultimate enemy: Stephen Montgomery, who wished to end the marriage between Anne and David. In such confrontation, David gets arrested and goes to trial. He is also forced to confront his foes, including Stephen Montgomery. Their hatred for one another inevitably boils over into a fierce confrontation, whereby David is arrested because they believe he is a traitor to the country. David must do whatever it takes for the jury to believe him.

This book certainly had a lot of romance and drama throughout the plot, and that was really enjoyable. However, I found the writing to be strenuous partly, but also light-headed; but all in all, I read the book pretty uncomplicated.

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 4 out of 5]

J. D. R. Hawkins is one of the few female authors that talk about the Civil War and created a beautiful saga called The Renegade Series that centers around a family from north Alabama and how their lives completely change once the Civil War hit. In this book, Double-Edge Sword (book number 4) the readers will follow up David Summers with his new wife, Anna. Being back brings not only a lot of memories but also the realization that life will never be the same. Learning how to process and navigate these new changes, he also has to deal with the consequences of his previous life before the war.
This was a great way to end the saga. There were a lot of emotions in this story which made it hard to read at times; Hawkins's writing is fascinating and very raw so at times it was eye-opening to see what these characters were dealing with. Overall, it was a great story filled with plot twists and action. Solid!

[Huda · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the final book in the Renegade series, written by J.D.R Hawkins, a best-selling author. It's the final installment based around the civil war and it follows David Summers. He returns back to his homeland with his new wife, Anna, only to find out how severely damaged his homeland is all because of the war. He must also deal with the new challenges such as the pain and severe trauma of his past serving within the civil war. He'll have to learn to deal with the transitions and move through them with as much ease as he can, but things get difficult when he meets his foe, Stepehen Montgomery. They both end up fighting it out until David is arrested. Who will the judge believe? This is a must read for thrill seekers!

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this absorbing novel, Double-Edge Sword, the author J.D.R. Hawkins has fictionalised and captured in a riveting way the main character’s journey through the turbulent waters of the Civil War in the USA and his return to his home in Alabama.
The story follows David who has survived the war and comes back home only to start struggling with the trauma of his past and enemies that are waiting to make his life really difficult.
This fascinating, powerful and thought-provoking story is very well written. The author has described with great mastery the challenges the main character has to face in order to get a normal life back after the terrible events of the war. This book is truthful and realistic in reflecting all those complex feelings and emotions. I strongly recommend it.

[Ivan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cavalryman David Summers is coming back to Alabama after fighting the Civil War. Haunted by nightmares, he is ready to go back to a simple life with his brand-new wife beside him. But his journey is far away from over because he still needs to adapt to the new reality, trying to resolve the traumas of his past. After a confrontation with one of his biggest nemeses, he is arrested and thrown into jail, and now his biggest issue is to convince the jury of his innocence.

Double-Edged Sword is the fourth book of the renegade series, written by J.D.R Hawkins. The story brings up the past, and the dilemmas people had to face during and after the war. The writing transports the reader to the old times, and the characters and the plot make this book interesting till the end.

[Hilary · Rating 5 out of 5]

JDR Hawkins continues her gripping civil war series with Double-Edged Sword, the fourth book in the series. The war is over and protagonist David, returns to his hometown in Alabama after fighting for the Confederacy. The southern states have been devastated by the cost of the war and the occupation of the Yankee soldiers. Slaves have been set free, but have no where to live and no job prospects. Hostilities between the freed slaves and the whites are increasing by the day. As the the Klan starts to take over in the southern states, David must decide where his loyalties lie....

I have enjoyed this historical fiction series and found it incredibly interesting to read from the prospective of a young man raised in the south.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book four of the Renegade series, written by J.D.R. Hawkins. At the end of the Civil War, David Summers and his wife Anna return to their home in Alabama. When he arrives, he must deal with the traumas and scars left by the war. In addition, he is forced to confront one of his adversaries, Stephen
Montgomery. Their mutual animosity inevitably leads to a fight, for which David is arrested. Who is the jury going to believe?

The plot moves quickly, and you'll be left wondering what will happen on the next page. The author's narrative makes this book enjoyable from page to page. This was a fantastic read for me. If you enjoy books in this genre, this is a must-read!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can clearly declare myself a lover of fiction books that have historical facts in them. "Double-Edged Sword" is the fourth book in the Renegade series written by J.D.R. Hawkins.
The author introduces us to David Summers, a confederate cavalryman who after the civil war is forced to face its aftermath. His hatred of Stephen Montgomery hasn't subsided, and it gets worse when David is arrested after a confrontation.
With a total of 14 chapters, this book managed to catch me in such a way that I read it in 4 days. I really liked how the author knew how to create a fiction where historical facts play an important role.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a suspenseful book that had me gripped, especially in the second half. I've always felt attracted by history. In this novel, the Civil war’s period is perfectly represented and this was an extra point, in my opinion.
The plot is interesting and richly descriptive. The settings are portrayed in such a good way that I could feel inside the book in more than one opportunity. The flow just worked nicely.
The characters surprised me from the very beginning. I had estimated a guess at which was the ending of the book and I was completely wrong; it was a real shock!!
I’m already looking for another piece of work from this author.