Joelle Daughtry is not your typical southern belle facing life after the civil war. She's a business women, a writer, and a teacher for the local freedmen. She's also, perhaps, my favourite female protagonist I have encountered this year.
I cannot figure out how Beth White has managed to stay under my radar before this point. Her ability to weave plots left me on the edge of my seat.
Between the rising violence with the klan, the tug of war for Joelle's heart, and the twisting turns surrounding the death of Schuyler's father the story had this sense of chaos and urgency that made the characters spring to life. It felt less like a linear plot at times and more like exploring the lands and lives of those connected to Daughtry House.
I also appreciated the way White respects the characters she's created. While no one could deny the growth evident in the characters they stay true to themselves. As an introvert, it can be so frustrating to see introverted protagonists suddenly "find their courage" and turn extroverted to save the day. There is certainly no denying Joelle's capability but at the same time there was a respect for her abilities and allowing the character to flourish within those characteristics.
Now for those of you, like myself, who are coming into this series on book two, take heart. A Reluctant Belle can easily stand alone. Any plot points that carry over from A Rebel Heart are explained within the context of the story. This does give the feeling of major spoilers for those of us coming in late, however, with White's skill at bringing together her plot and characters I will definitely be looking for A Rebel Heart to dive into the details of Selah and Levi's story.
4.5 out of 5 stars
I received this book through the Revell Reads Book tour in exchange for my honest opinion.
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