Jean Hackensmith, Author
My Newest Releases
My Newest Release
Over 25,000 Copies Sold
Jacob made Rebecca a promise 14 years ago--one that he's determined to keep.
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What Am I Working On Now?
Fans of The Wilderness Saga will be happy to know I just finished the first chapter of Book Thirteen, which will be titled "The Last Appeal." This one will be a little different in that nearly the entire book will revolve around a court case. (You might have noticed that I enjoy writing courtroom scenes. I think there's one in every book for AT LEAST the last five.) A little too much "Law and Order", I guess. Anyway, below is the working blurb for "The Last Appeal," which will explain the direction #13 will take.
"The Last Appeal" Blurb
Superior, Wisconsin, 1915. On the icy shores of Lake Superior, the Wachsmann dairy empire stands as a beacon of stability. But as Europe drifts toward the Great War, a local tragedy threatens to destroy the family forever.When a brilliant geneticist is found murdered in the Wachsmann barn, the evidence is surgical and chilling. The weapon? A rare toxin from a locked cabinet. The only man with a key? Cole Wachsmann. In a heartbreaking turn, Cole’s best friend, veterinarian Zach Vanderwelt, is forced to provide the testimony that seals Cole's fate.
With the sudden death of their legendary attorney, the defense falls to the untested Phineas “Finn” Pittman. A novice who has never tried a capital case, Finn must navigate a a prosecution convinced that Cole killed to protect a "Genetic Goldmine."
Ingrid Jones, Cover Illustrator

I’m an Australian designer and artist now living in Cape Town with my family, where I get to combine my love of creativity with my passion for storytelling. Designing is my way of evoking emotion and working with Jean Hackensmith has been a truly special journey. Her excellent stories—whether set in the rich farming times of the 19th century or the thrill of modern crime—have not only inspired me but also taught me so much about those eras and lifestyles. Together we’ve found a wonderful synergy, and I feel very lucky to create covers that capture the heart of her stories.
A Note From Jean
I am excited to announce that, due to Amazon's Kindle Translate BETA testing program, almost all of my books are now available in Spanish. German translations are also on the horizon. The translation is done by AI, but I am told by some spanish-speaking friends that it does a very good job. So, here's hoping! There are a few books that are still awaiting Amazon's approval for Kindle Translate, but hopefully they will be available in Spanish and German very soon.

Jean Hackensmith
I have been writing since the age of twenty. (That’s 49 years and, yes, I’m disclosing my age.) I am the proud mother of three and grandmother to four wonderful grandchildren. After losing who I thought was the love of my life, my late husband Ron, in November of 2011, I met Rick. So, it is definitely possible to have more than one "love of your life." Rick and I were married in July of 2018 and are still going strong today. He is my soulmate, my confidant, and my biggest fan. He has read every book I have ever written (even the romances!)
Next to writing, my second passion is live theater. I founded a local community theater group back in 1992 and directed upwards of 40 shows, including three that I authored. I also appeared on stage a few times, portraying Anna in The King and I and Miss Hannigan in Annie. I am sad to say that the theater group dropped its final curtain in 2008, but those 16 years will always hold some of my fondest memories.
I moved from Superior 15 years ago, seeking the serenity of country living. I also wanted to get away from the natural air conditioning provided by Lake Superior. We moved only 50 miles south, but the temperature can vary by 20-30 degrees. I guess I’m a country girl at heart. I simply love this area, and am lucky to, once again, have someone to share its beauty. I love the solitude, the picturesque beauty of the sun rising over the water, the strangely calming effect of watching a deer graze outside your kitchen window. Never again, will I live in the city. I am an author, after all, and what better place to be inspired than in God’s own back yard.


