A Reluctant Belle (Daughtry Daughters #2)

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A Reluctant Belle

By Beth White

Edition: ARC, paperback

Synopsis: With the Civil War over, Mississippi Belle Joelle Daughtry wants to establish a school to teach freed slaves. But she might have to form an alliance with her childhood nemesis and reveal her deepest secret to make changes in her world and her heart.

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 received a free copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing.