Escaped slave Belle Palmer makes it to freedom, but her father isn’t so lucky.  Belle is now alone in the north with nowhere to go and no one to turn to.  Belle is soon blessed; the Best family takes her in offering safe shelter.

As Belle rests and heals, she cannot stop but thinking of the eldest Best sibling, eighteen-year-old Daniel.  Daniel makes her feel alive.  She realizes she may be falling in love, but Daniel is promised to another.

Beverly Jenkins’ eye for detail and thorough research shine clearly within the pages of BELLE & THE BEAU.  The unique use of an escaped slave for the heroine offers a glimpse of history to those who read it, but Belle is equally appealing as her insecurities and dreams are feelings with which most teens can relate.  I’ve learned more about the times through romance than I ever did in class!  Teachers should look as this medium as a way to reach some of their students!

The period comes alive with the breezy narrative and realistic setting.  Nothing comes easy to Belle, but she is determined to make the best of the situation.  I thank Beverly Jenkins for touching on a tough part of our past and making it come to life.