Belle (Kimani Tru) Paperback – December 23, 2008

I have been a avid reader for a long time. This was not the Beverly Jenkins that I know. So many mistake as if this book was not written by her.

Belle is a runaway slave that was recently separated from her father as they escaped the south. She’s walking her way North from Kentucky and happens across 2 young black kids. They help her and that is Belle’s introduction to Daniel Best and his family.Daniel mistakenly identifies Belle as a boy due to her height but quickly grows affection for her. Although she cannot read, she’s smart. She’s especially kind to his sister and his parents love her.But Daniel is in a relationship with a young woman that his family does not like. What’s he going to do with these new feelings he has for Belle? And Belle is constantly in fear that the slave catchers will steal her back south and wonders if she’ll ever see her dad again.Ms Jenkins is genius at bringing the humanity to a rough time in our history. It’s a good reminder that in midst of a horrible time, Black people (young and old) were still able to find love and happiness. And as I’m reading this during Black History month, it feels even more poignant.

Beverly Jenkins has once again touched our lives with her masterful talent as a scribe. (Thank You Beverly). We do not hear enough of the plight and collaborative efforts of mankind; however in this book "Belle" I was pleasantly surprised to read about strong African American families, Abolitionists, Quakers, and MANKIND in general working in Unity and Respect. If you're a history buff as I am this storyline will enrich and challenge you.I gave BELLE a 5-star rating because this book was truly noteworthy, a wealth of information for the era it was written and feeding the Hopeless Romantic & History Buff in me.However, Beverly, I hope to hear more...about Daniel and Belle, the Morgan brothers story... I was left desiring more. So if this was your intention, you were successful! I look for to a saga. I'm reading about Jojo's story next. :)I would recommend this book to Jr. High students too Adults.Once again Thank You for using your writing talents in this genre.

I have read a lot of Beverly's books. She is really a great writer, and I can almost sense her confidence her stories. It is my hope that she continues her talent, and be recognized more, with her skills. I have about 5 more books to read by Beverly, and I do hope that she continues on her marvelous trip!

This story from the author is a slight departure from the other books of hers that I’ve read. This is NOT a bad thing, in a world where the physical overrides the spiritual and emotional aspects of a relationship this book hits those two aspects nicely!

NOBODY does historical romance like Beverly Jenkins. She is the best. I've read all of her historicals with the exception of Belle and Josephine. Both books are YA and I didn't think I'd be interested. When I saw that both books were being 're-released, I thought 'Why not?' Best decision ever!I was hooked from Page 1. I love that the author gives you a great love story and an interesting history lesson all in one book. Times were hard indeed, but the love and care that the Best family shows Belle and each other, as well as the wonderful sense of community are heart-warming. And seeing Francine the Queen get her just desserts? Even better.Such a sweet love story. I'm excited to be moving right on to Miss Jojo's story!

With “Belle” Beverly Jenkins explores the traumas of slavery without wallowing in that pain or further inflicting it on her readers. She gives you hope, joy, love and healing along with the heavier elements too. Belle and Daniel’s romance is so sweet. I found myself grinning and swooning out loud every other page. I love how loyal Daniel is and how strong-minded Belle is. I also love fiery Josephine and Daniel’s adoring parents. It was really amazing reading a book set during slavery within a community of Black people who were free. I want a hundred more poignant stories like this . I was so sad to see this book end because the author creates a world, family, and community you want to stay with forever.

I actually read "Josephine " first so I guess this " Belle" is the prequel. If you haven't read "Josephine" yet read this one first. There are some things that affected my enjoyment of the book....( misspelled words ...ect.) but I found the writing so captivating that I determined to push through and I'm happy I did. Reading this book gave me an eye-opening experience. I felt a kinship with the people who were abolishionists and not afraid to say so. Those unsung heroes and heroines who quietly went about their mission of setting the captives free despite the dangers. And the noted ones we often hear about. Well done Ms Jenkins!

cute.Historical and easy to read.Not sexy in anyway but has a nice romantic narrative.