A Reluctant Belle

Written by Beth White

Narrated by Holly Adams

Joelle Daughtry has a secret. By day, the impoverished Southern belle has been helping her sisters in their quest to turn the run-down family plantation into a resort hotel after the close of the Civil War. But by night and under a male pseudonym, she has been penning articles for the local paper in support of constructing a school for former slaves. With the Mississippi arm of the Ku Klux Klan gaining power and prestige, Joelle knows she is playing a dangerous game. Loyalties shift when Schuyler Beaumont, childhood enemy and current investor in the Daughtry House renovation, takes over his assassinated father's candidacy for state office. Joelle finds that in order to protect her family and her home, she and Schuyler will have to put aside their longstanding personal conflict and develop a united public front. The trouble is, what do you do when animosity becomes respect--and even love--if you're already engaged to someone else?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 20, 2019
• ISBN: 9781980072423

Reviews for A Reluctant Belle

[chrirob · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Joelle Daughtry has very strong & loud opinions, but a very quiet voice. Some may call her shy, but she has learned to fight her battles in her own way...without the need to speak...at least not verbally. While Joelle may battle shyness, she does not hesitate to battle for causes she believes in by writing under a pseudonym with the local newspaper. While fighting for her causes, she is also battling her childhood nemesis Schuyler Beaumont. But with events unfolding around Daughtry House putting everyone at danger When danger begins to unravel the local community due to the Klu Klux Klan, Joelle has no choice but to work with Schuyler to protect those she loves...and she may love end up loving her enemy in the bargain.Another great book in the Daughtry House series. On to book 3 which I received from LibraryThing Early Reviewers and led me down this Daughtry House road!

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The aftermath of the Civil War left much loss and destruction in its wake. This was not only physical but also emotional. Joelle was trying to rebuild her and her sister’s lives by turning their grand home into a hotel. It was not an easy transition financially or otherwise. Her strength and determination were impressive, especially during a time when women were considered lesser than men. Her courage was even greater in her compassion and work to help the ex-slaves build lives with their new found freedom. There is no doubt that Joelle’s driving force in her integrity was her faith in God.If only helping her family and the slaves was that easy. The war had left bitterness in the hearts of many men who did not agree with the outcome. Without national combat on their side, they crept into the woodwork, hiding their hatred and plotting in darkness. Like many, Joelle was unaware of exactly who these sinister people were until she was viewed as their enemy. Schuyler Beaumont is a childhood friend of Joelle’s. He is wealthy and had a reputation before the war of being self-serving. It has changed him too, as also wants to help the newly freed people. The murder of his father during a political speech puts him on the path to find the killer. Working undercover he draws closer to finding his man, even going as far as to join the Ku Klux Klan. This book is not only rich in historical facts but also in detail what those in the South faced after the Civil War. The characters are and in-depth. I saw there was another battle raging I had not considered after the last shot was fired. You hear of the evil workings of groups like the KKK but don’t realize how terrifying the people they targeted. In the midst of all this there is also romance and humor. A fantastic book!

[sarahgracegrzy · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Wasn't really a fan of this one. White's writing style is far too casual and modern for the time period, and within only a few chapters, I already spotted several historical innaccuracies. Not for me. :)

[becky_l-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Beth White produces vivid descriptions of anarchy in post-Civil War times in The Reluctant Belle, Daughtry House #2. Reconstruction was a very slow, painful process. Some championed it, some quietly supported it, and some outright spoke against it. Others secretly opposed it with an infectious hatred that developed into the KKK. This terror might start in an area slowly, like a glowing ember, then quite quickly fan into a ferocious, deadly flame that was meant to undo the liberation of the slaves. Author White brings the era to exciting, fearful life for a heart-stopping, engaging read.So many themes presented here. We learn that God sees us all as we are. We see, if we choose, comparisons for racial issues in our own times.I really was impressed by how God used each character, especially the main characters, despite their flaws, using the talents He HAD given them. I saw more than a historical romance. I saw an example of what I want to be for my husband-what Joelle represents to Schuyler. Am I a refuge for my husband, anchoring him the way Joelle anchors Schuyler?Great quotes, true for today.“ If you admitted that you loved, you put yourself in danger of rejection.”“The only way they got through that year had been laying their bruised souls at the feet of Jesus.”“People who had a lot to lose, he’d noticed, took more time to pray. They relied on each other, trusted one another, became vulnerable as brothers and sisters.”The author’s notes at the end are interesting and essential for history buffs. Grab this one for yourself and start following Beth White. This book can stand alone, but I enjoyed it, even more, knowing the background of book one.I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinions which I am for which I am solely responsible.

[jaymewill-1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Beth White's new book, A Reluctant Belle, tells the story of Joelle Daughtry and her struggle against racism and hatred in post Civil War Mississippi. She has started a school to teach former slaves to read and write. She also writes secretly under a pseudo name for the local paper against racism and prejudice. She engages herself to the town's pastor but realizes she actually loves her former nemesis and childhood tormentor, Schuyler Beaumont. Schuyler is fighting his own battles, the foremost of which is to find out who murdered his father. To succeed, he must infiltrate the newly formed Ku Klux Klan, regardless of his reputation. I felt the first half of the book flowed very slowly. I was half way finished and realized that nothing much had happened. I persevered, however, to reach the end, and I'm glad I did. The story picks up well and held my attention. I give the author top marks for her rich descriptions of life after the Civil War.

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I know you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover, but in this case I absolutely did. The cover grabbed my attention and without reading the back cover I was already sold on the book.Joelle and her sisters are taking on a big endeavor by opening their home as a hotel. Just after the war has ended may not be the best time, but Joelle is a determined woman. She is one fierce woman who doesn’t back down from anything. There are no quitters in the family so it has to be prosperous. What I found intriguing was her articles that she was writing about the KKK. Does she know how dangerous this is? What if someone finds out? I love how Joelle wants the sane treatment for everyone and will step on toes as she moves forward with her articles that can cause hatred and danger. I admire her for sticking up for what she believe in.The post Civil War era was at times confusing to me but the author has done her homework. She helps readers understand what is going on and brings her characters to life. I’m on the fence with Schuyler as he has seen both sides of freeing slaves. Has his heart changed? The author does a great job of showing how each character is struggling with their faith and learning to trust each other and Him.I learned a lot of historical facts while reading this book. There were a few things I didn’t know about which helped me understand the struggle of slaves being truly free. There is a very shocking murder that takes place in story that will affect several characters. Will hearts be soften to the plight of the people who want to be treated as equals? Can Joelle and Schuyler begin to trust each other? Be sure to catch their banter and have a few laughs as they try to keep their pride in check. The story is a wonderful display of treating others as you would like to be treated. There is danger along the way, but their faith will help them make the right choices,I received a copy of this book from Librarything’s Early Readers Review group. The review is my own opinion.

[hes7 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Once again, Beth White crafts an intriguing novel, complete with a glimpse into the (sometimes horrifying) history of the post-Civil War South, an element of danger, and a complicated romance. With faith, humor, and mystery, the story surrounding Joelle Daughtry and Schuyler Beaumont unfolds at a steady pace, proving entertaining, captivating, and hard-to-put-down.A Reluctant Belle is a delightful historical read, perfectly continuing White’s Daughtry House series. I enjoyed it and know that fans of the genre are sure to, as well.I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Make sure to read book one in the series before you read this one so that you understand who all the characters are in this story. I loved the characters throughout this series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I keep needing to know more and more about each of these sisters and cousins. This story helps you learn a bit about the reconstruction that occurred after the end of the Civil War. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Reluctant Belle by Beth White is the second book in her Daughtry House series. Joelle Daughtry is one southern belle you don’t want to tangle with. Helping her sisters turn their run-down plantation into a hotel resort is no job for the weak. Schuyler Beaumont, childhood enemy, becomes an investor in the hotel when the girls become in need of additional funds. As the Ku Klux Klan starts gaining power Joelle and Schuyler must work together to protect friends and loved ones. Can they extinguish the sparks that continue to fly between them before they both get burned? I always enjoy a story where the heroine is not a push-over and can handle things on their own. Joelle had an inner strength that saw her through a tough time in our history. I loved the interaction between Joelle and Schuyler. Ms. White did a very good job with a very touchy subject matter. The history didn’t overwhelm the storyline; it just enhanced it. If you like Civil War era romance then this is a book you would really enjoy!I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[jypsylynn · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Thank you to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *Review*A Reluctant Belle is the first book I've read by author Beth White. I found the story charming and thought provoking. Set in Mississippi during the turbulent time period of The Klu Klux Klan' s powerful influence during The Reconstruction, there are numerous issues, some relevant still, that the story explores to varying degrees. For example, the main character, Joelle, is too opinionated for her time. Women could not think for themselves because they had no brains. Seriously? Joelle, using a male pen name, writes her opinions about slavery, building schools for slaves and voting rights for the local paper. She wants better lives for slaves, and she's willing to fight for her beliefs. Opposition to anyone sharing these ideas openly is extremely hostile and just plain dangerous. Will her secret be exposed? At the same time, she is helping her sisters restore their plantation to a resort. Her personal life is in a bit of turmoil because she's kind of caught between two men for different complicated reasons. No spoilers here. Joelle's characterization is strong, sharp and intelligent. I liked her, and I enjoyed the snappy clever dialogue between her and Schuyler, one of the men in question. Schuyler is a complex engaging character. He and Joelle play well and not so well together, but they balance each other and the story. Although the story is serious at times, it's also light, warm hearted and lovely. The history behind the story was well researched and written in a believable way that transports the reader through time. The author's talent and passion translate well to the page, thus lending the authenticity necessary to carry such an important story about a dark time in our history. Any fan of historical fiction will find this story engrossing and satisfying.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: A Reluctant Belle (The Daughtry House Series #2)Author: Beth WhitePages: 363 (ARC)Year: 2019Publisher: RevellMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.Joelle Daughtry has a dream of opening a school in her home state of Mississippi to teach the recently freed slaves after the Civil War., or Recent Unpleasantness as Southerners would say. However, finding the money and the support for such an endeavor is proving to be difficult. There are still many people who are against slaves being freed. There are organizations that actively pursue a goal of making life very difficult for the former slaves, sometimes to the point of killing them. Joelle has been courted for about a year by the pastor of a local Methodist church. She doesn’t love him but admires his professed beliefs. She wants a family, but should she marry to obtain that? Her childhood nemesis, Schuyler Beaumont, has said he will help her fund the school. She begins to view him differently even though they still antagonize and torment each other.Schuyler Beaumont is the second son of a wealthy businessman. After the war, he begins to see slaves in a new light and wants to help them. He is devastated when his father is murdered by an unknown shooter. He decides he will hunt down the murderer and serve him justice. His father was a budding politician and killed at a political rally with freed slaves one of the topics. He finds some clues that lead him to believe one of the pro-slavery organizations is responsible for the shooting. He infiltrates the organization to try to capture the killer. Meanwhile, he is spending time with the Daughtry family and examines his heart one day. He is shocked to discover that he loves Joelle but what can he do about it?This is a wonderful romance with plenty of humor when the two lead characters interact. Oh, I bet their relationship is full of laughs. Joelle and Schuyler both see God at work in their lives and give him the credit for it. I loved the setting of the antebellum south and am always interested in Civil War era stories. Joelle’s ability to see past skin color to the heart of a person was inspiring, especially from one raised in the South during a time of slavery. She valued people and knew God has put her dream in her heart to serve His purpose. I hope there is a third book focusing on Aurora, the third Daughtry daughter!

[thequietreader · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Joelle Daughtry wants nothing to do with her grandmother's efforts to turn her into a belle. She's focused on her school to teach freed slaves. Her childhood friend/nemesis annoys her and she accepts the proposal of the local reverend. Will she learn to be content with her decision, or will she see the love that has been in front of her all the time.It was a delight to be back with the Daughtry sisters once again. Selah is happily married. The hotel is ready for guests. It is the perfect time for things to go...a bit wrong. Joelle has been writing political view articles anonymously. In a fit of pique, she gives in to Gil's continued efforts to marry her, hoping he'll finally see her for who she is and accept her.Schuyler Beaumont's father is assassinated and he sets on a course to find the man responsible. This leads him straight into the KKK. He recognizes his feelings for Joelle first but doesn't fight for her because she's made her choice.The plot is easy to follow. The writing is good. While I did find myself frustrated with both Joelle and Schuyler, the reasons for their behavior was understandable.I recieved a free copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved being back with the Daughtry sisters, and being reunited with old friends.This being the second book in the series the author does a wonderful job of bringing you up to date, and a bit about what happened in the previous read.The Inn is about ready for guests, and times and tensions are heightened, and evil rears its ugly head. This is a rebuilding time after the Civil War, but there are those that really don’t want change and will do all they can to ensure that what they want continues.A bit of romance, and this is Joelle’s story, and we hope she makes the right decisions with two men of interest in her life.A wonderful historical read that you don’t want to miss, and there is another sister, so yes, there is another book in this series coming!I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[nancyluebke · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this historic romance. I received this for free and I voluntarily chose to review this. But because there was a little bit of a cliffhanger, I've rated this as 4.7*. There was a lot of action in this. Centered on the rebuilding of communities after the civil war, there is a lot of hot opinions and KKK stirring up people on both sides. Add in a few murders, and riot like conditions, and the action flows through the whole story, still leaving a few unanswered questions at the end.Now I want to read the next in the series.

[tcjrogers · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Reluctant Belle is an extremely well-written story about Joelle Daughtry, a young lady living in the Deep South just after the Civil War who yearns to help educate the recently freed slaves. Obviously, there is opposition to this cause, and she and Schuyler, her childhood friend/enemy who she can’t stand and also can’t stand to be without, are caught in the middle of a dangerous situation. It took me a few chapters to really get into the story and connect with it, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. The characters were so engaging. I love the relationship between Joelle and Schuyler — how they would push away from each other but then always pull back together, not really realizing the love they had for each other until they thought they might loose it forever. One of the most compelling aspects of the story is knowing that the danger was real — that post-Civil War life was dangerous, for freedmen and for those who would take up their cause. Overall, I thought this was an excellent book. I hadn’t read anything by Beth White prior to this book, but now I am definitely going to check out her other books. I highly recommend this one to anyone who likes historical romantic Christian fiction.*My thanks to the publisher for the Early Reviewer’s copy. I was not obligated to give a positive a review, and all opinions expressed are my own.*

[tealadytoo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Reluctant Belle is the second book of Beth White’s “Daughtry House” series, and picks up immediately after the events of book 1, A Rebel Heart. Set in Mississippi in the post-Civil War Reconstruction era, it chronicles the story of the second Daughtry sister, Joelle, a bookish young woman who is passionate about education for the newly emancipated African-Americans. Her school for the workers at her family’s newly opened hotel and her incendiary articles penned anonymously for the local newspaper land her in the crosshairs of the local KKK. In her personal life she is torn between the local minister, Gil Reese, a very proper man who has courted her for years and Schuyler Beaumont, a childhood friend and antagonist who always manages to rile her up with his teasing. Schuyler is a bright but somewhat aimless young man, who is forced to a sudden maturity when his father, a candidate for political office, is killed at a campaign event that devolves into a race riot. Romantic confusion and political intrigue and danger abound as Joelle and Schuyler struggle against the evil that surrounds them and the dictates of their own hearts.This was an excellent book, rich is characterization and with a fine sense of place and history. Joelle and Schuyler are an entertaining pair, constantly bantering but with good hearts underneath. The suspense is taut. It could be read as a stand-alone, but I would strongly recommend reading the first book beforehand. Although that focuses on the romance of the older sister, Selah, a good deal of the relationship of Joelle and Schuyler is established in that book.I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[huberk-1 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Reluctant Belle by Beth WhiteI could not get into this book, I read some about Joelle wanting to get a larger school or schoolroom so she could teach former slaves their 3R's. She has a giving heart. Other than that, the book didn't grab me at all. I skipped ahead a few chapters-nope, still didn't work-this is as close to a "perfect image" of my most favored genre.Reluctant Bell by Beth WhiteI was provided a complimentary copy from LibraryThing and Revell, Baker Books with no obligation for a review.

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is an intriguing book, easy to sink into. I love the challenges and tests these characters go through, making this a page-turning read. I've read so few stories that take place during the Civil War, and I wonder why...so gripping. I love a book that teaches me something new and I learned a lot from this one. :) I received this book as a part of LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program.