Staff Pick
I love historical romances, but I'm guilty of picking up books that cover obscure parts of English history and ignoring excellent authors writing about American history. My new favorite author is Beverly Jenkins and her books about powerful African American men and women after the Civil War. Rebel has one of her strongest leads yet with the story of Valinda Lacy and her quest for independence from her family. Her growing relationship with Drake LeVeq and his family is life-changing for her. They give her the love and support she needs to realize her dream of teaching former slaves and children. As someone who didn't want to marry, she realizes how loving Drake can enrich her life instead of restrict her dreams. Recommended By Jennifer V., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
The first novel in USA Today Bestselling Author Beverly Jenkins's compelling new series follows a Northern woman south in the chaotic aftermath of the Civil War...
Valinda Lacy's mission in the steamy heart of New Orleans is to help the newly emancipated community survive and flourish. But soon she discovers that here, freedom can also mean danger. When thugs destroy the school she has set up and then target her, Valinda runs for her life — and straight into the arms of Captain Drake LeVeq.
As an architect from an old New Orleans family, Drake has a deeply personal interest in rebuilding the city. Raised by strong women, he recognizes Valinda's determination. And he can't stop admiring — or wanting — her. But when Valinda's father demands she return home to marry a man she doesn't love, her daring rebellion draws Drake into an irresistible intrigue.
Review
"Beyond the heated passion between the pair, Rebel stands out for its portrayal of the turbulent and violent atmosphere of Reconstruction-era New Orleans." BookPage (Starred Review)
Review
"A satisfying start to a new historical series from one of romance's finest writers." Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)
Review
"Jenkins knows how to craft a romantic yarn against a historical backdrop with all the attendant power and punch befitting her status as a romance icon." Entertainment Weekly
Review
"Jenkins addresses sensitive, serious issues in a tactful, realistic manner, and she brilliantly balances the real sorrows of history with a shimmering romance. This is a grand tale of finding happiness in hard times." Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Beverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2018 Michigan Author Award by the Michigan Library Association, the 2017 Romance Writers of America Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award for historical romance. She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured in both the documentary Love Between the Covers and on CBS Sunday Morning. Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for multicultural romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR.
To read more about Beverly, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
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