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Belle Lisette
Sequel to THE JOURNEY
Haunted by a secret from the past,
will Darcy be forced to relive his worst memory?
Almost thirty years after Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy encountered Nate Morgan in Jan Hahn’s The Journey, their paths cross once again in New Orleans, where Morgan lives in an elegant plantation he named Belle Lisette.
Set in the Antebellum Era of the American South, this novel sends the Darcys and the Bingleys abroad to help their sons seek their fortunes in the land in which Henry Darcy fell in love during a previous visit. It is there that they discover Morgan who, free from his indenture, has established himself as a prosperous land and business owner.
Hoping never to see the rogue again, Darcy finds that his enemy not only still harbours tender feelings for Elizabeth, but he has two sons, both of whom are attracted to the Darcys’ only daughter, the free-spirited Beth.
Whether or not you have read The Journey, you will find Jan Hahn’s sequel, Belle Lisette, a compelling read on its own filled with simmering secrets, excitement, and romance.
Haunted by a secret from the past,
will Darcy be forced to relive his worst memory?
Almost thirty years after Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy encountered Nate Morgan in Jan Hahn’s The Journey, their paths cross once again in New Orleans, where Morgan lives in an elegant plantation he named Belle Lisette.
Set in the Antebellum Era of the American South, this novel sends the Darcys and the Bingleys abroad to help their sons seek their fortunes in the land in which Henry Darcy fell in love during a previous visit. It is there that they discover Morgan who, free from his indenture, has established himself as a prosperous land and business owner.
Hoping never to see the rogue again, Darcy finds that his enemy not only still harbours tender feelings for Elizabeth, but he has two sons, both of whom are attracted to the Darcys’ only daughter, the free-spirited Beth.
Whether or not you have read The Journey, you will find Jan Hahn’s sequel, Belle Lisette, a compelling read on its own filled with simmering secrets, excitement, and romance.
- GenresHistorical Romance
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2024
9 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 31, 2025
About a dozen years ago, a harrowing adventure befell Darcy and Elizabeth in Jan Hahn’s Pride and Prejudice variation, The Journey. Now, a dozen years later, the author chose to write for her last book, Belle Lisette, a follow-up novel when Darcy and Elizabeth with their grown children have taken a journey to the New World and the sultry, mysterious locale of Antebellum New Orleans.
Belle Lisette can be read standalone, but some readers will prefer to get the earlier adventure shared by Darcy, Elizabeth and the former highwayman Nate Morgan then get into this story taking place about twenty years later when due to their sons, both the Darcy and Bingley families take up temporary abode in New Orleans where their adult children, bent on adventure and romance, come into contact with Nate Morgan’s children and they are all about to learn the secrets of the plantation, Belle Lisette.
Jan Hahn has always been a talented writer whose P&P variations have engaged me in the past, but I felt she really showed her writing chops with this sequel novel set in the sultry, atmospheric world of New Orleans, bayous, plantations, and the pre-civil war American South. Creole culture, Cajun culture, Slave and Free society, and the unstated main character New Orleans with its confluence of African, French, Spanish, and American influences were drawn so well. In fact, I was so taken with the historic backdrop that I felt it was of equal or more interest at times than the human storylines.
As to those, there is a dramatic reunion accompanied by some figurative fireworks when Darcy and Elizabeth encounter Nate Morgan. Elizabeth made the decision to keep secrets from her husband regarding their son Henry’s earlier encounter and catching feelings for young Elizabeth Morgan, Nate’s daughter. Now, this secret is out and Darcy must also figure out what to do with their spirited impulsive daughter’s catching the interest of Morgan’s sons.
As to Beth, she had a first encounter with Tristan Morgan that set up her hackles and she resists any attraction in that direction. She is curious about his younger brother and his influence on her brother and cousins when they want to experience the dark side of American society on a youthful whim. Not being privy to the tumultuous history that passed between their parents, the younger Darcys, Morgans, and Bingleys become entangled.
Belle Lisette is dramatic and has some darker undertones that hark to the brooding Brontes more than Austen, but it was also an affirmation of the depth of Darcy and Elizabeth’s love and the future of their family. I’m sad this is Jan Hahn’s last book, but she went out on a high note with Belle Lisette.
I rec'd an eARC via Meryton Press to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 5.21.25.
Belle Lisette can be read standalone, but some readers will prefer to get the earlier adventure shared by Darcy, Elizabeth and the former highwayman Nate Morgan then get into this story taking place about twenty years later when due to their sons, both the Darcy and Bingley families take up temporary abode in New Orleans where their adult children, bent on adventure and romance, come into contact with Nate Morgan’s children and they are all about to learn the secrets of the plantation, Belle Lisette.
Jan Hahn has always been a talented writer whose P&P variations have engaged me in the past, but I felt she really showed her writing chops with this sequel novel set in the sultry, atmospheric world of New Orleans, bayous, plantations, and the pre-civil war American South. Creole culture, Cajun culture, Slave and Free society, and the unstated main character New Orleans with its confluence of African, French, Spanish, and American influences were drawn so well. In fact, I was so taken with the historic backdrop that I felt it was of equal or more interest at times than the human storylines.
As to those, there is a dramatic reunion accompanied by some figurative fireworks when Darcy and Elizabeth encounter Nate Morgan. Elizabeth made the decision to keep secrets from her husband regarding their son Henry’s earlier encounter and catching feelings for young Elizabeth Morgan, Nate’s daughter. Now, this secret is out and Darcy must also figure out what to do with their spirited impulsive daughter’s catching the interest of Morgan’s sons.
As to Beth, she had a first encounter with Tristan Morgan that set up her hackles and she resists any attraction in that direction. She is curious about his younger brother and his influence on her brother and cousins when they want to experience the dark side of American society on a youthful whim. Not being privy to the tumultuous history that passed between their parents, the younger Darcys, Morgans, and Bingleys become entangled.
Belle Lisette is dramatic and has some darker undertones that hark to the brooding Brontes more than Austen, but it was also an affirmation of the depth of Darcy and Elizabeth’s love and the future of their family. I’m sad this is Jan Hahn’s last book, but she went out on a high note with Belle Lisette.
I rec'd an eARC via Meryton Press to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 5.21.25.
December 7, 2024
Having read the prequel story, The Journey, in 1914 and 1917, I admit that some details had slipped my mind. However, IMHO, this is definitely a sequel and not a stand alone book.
The Darcys have been married around 30 years and have a number of children: the youngest of which is a girl named Beth. This story is told from her and her mother's POV. The setting is New Orleans, due to the fact that one of their sons and one of the Bingleys' sons want to invest in property there to raise sugar cane. Thus the parents and several children are there to investigate whether this is a good plan or not.
Things become very complicated when ODC find that a man from their past (and not at all a good man) is involved with the investment the young men are considering. We read that he "continues" to love Elizabeth, has a daughter named Eliza and an estate also named for her ('Beautiful Elizabeth' in translation). We soon read of various romances, including Nate Morgan's plan that his second son, Jubal, should marry Beth. Beth, however, has her eye on someone else.
This story gives us realism in the setting and conventions: slaves are used, "marriages" can be with a black/negro wife and then a 'real' marriage with a white woman.
A hurricane forces the Darcys and Bingleys to seek shelter with Nate Morgan in his estate and things heat up.
I certainly enjoyed reading of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship and how they strive to be honest but then hit a snag in that part of their marriage.
Towards the end of this story not only does the author give us some details from the prequel, which clear up the mystery of why Darcy hates Nate Morgan, but we also learn some further secrets about Nate's life since he was banished from England.
I highly recommend both stories. I received an ARC of this story and am freely leaving a review.
The Darcys have been married around 30 years and have a number of children: the youngest of which is a girl named Beth. This story is told from her and her mother's POV. The setting is New Orleans, due to the fact that one of their sons and one of the Bingleys' sons want to invest in property there to raise sugar cane. Thus the parents and several children are there to investigate whether this is a good plan or not.
Things become very complicated when ODC find that a man from their past (and not at all a good man) is involved with the investment the young men are considering. We read that he "continues" to love Elizabeth, has a daughter named Eliza and an estate also named for her ('Beautiful Elizabeth' in translation). We soon read of various romances, including Nate Morgan's plan that his second son, Jubal, should marry Beth. Beth, however, has her eye on someone else.
This story gives us realism in the setting and conventions: slaves are used, "marriages" can be with a black/negro wife and then a 'real' marriage with a white woman.
A hurricane forces the Darcys and Bingleys to seek shelter with Nate Morgan in his estate and things heat up.
I certainly enjoyed reading of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship and how they strive to be honest but then hit a snag in that part of their marriage.
Towards the end of this story not only does the author give us some details from the prequel, which clear up the mystery of why Darcy hates Nate Morgan, but we also learn some further secrets about Nate's life since he was banished from England.
I highly recommend both stories. I received an ARC of this story and am freely leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Belle Lisette is the sequel to one of my all-time favorite JAFF books, The Journey, so I could not wait to read it when I heard it was coming out. Even though I am well aware of Jan Hahn’s talent, I never expected Belle Lisette to be as good as The Journey, but it is! I kept reading with a conflicting feeling: I didn’t want to stop because I was loving it, yet I wanted to slow down because once I finished it, it would be over. I simply cannot believe this will be the last book I’ll ever read from Jan Hahn. She is definitely one of the best writers I have ever read, and this book was incredibly special, so be prepared, this is going to be a long review!
Set in 1840, this story follows the Darcy’s and the Bingley’s as they journey with their families to New Orleans to help their sons seek their fortunes. It is there they encounter Tristan and Jubar Morgan, the sons of Nate Morgan, the dashing highwayman who abducted Elizabeth and Darcy when they were young, and whose actions allowed their love story to become so powerful. As old grudges and fears resurface for the older generation, new love blossoms for the younger one, and both stories intertwine in unexpected ways.
The story is as much about Beth and Tristan’s romance as it is about Elizabeth and Darcy’s, perhaps even more so about Elizabeth and Darcy. Darcy’s unwavering love for Elizabeth shone through, and I especially enjoyed watching him confront his inner fears when Nate Morgan reentered their lives. Their enduring love after so many years together was beautifully portrayed and the way they knew each other so deeply made every moment special. I could feel Darcy’s pain and sense of betrayal just as vividly as I could feel Elizabeth’s devotion to her husband. Every scene between them was powerful in a way. It was such a mature, realistic and moving relationship!
As for Beth and Tristan, at the beginning I have to admit I was more captivated by their romance than by Elizabeth and Darcy’s, largely because Tristan was such a swoon-worthy hero. Responsible, honorable, strong… He seemed like a younger version of Darcy but with a different vibe, maybe a more playful tone. I fell for him within the first few scenes he shared with Beth! Later in the book I expected him to be a bit more of a force of nature, but I was still happy with the way their story unfolded in the end. Beth was an amazing female character, and she got everything she deserved in the end 😊
It was beautiful and rewarding to see both relationships grow, and to feel the difference between young love and the profound love built over decades. This contrast was exquisitely done by the author, who wove both romances together and tied them back not only to each other, but also to The Journey.
Belle Lisette is told in the first person by both Elizabeth and her daughter Beth, with each chapter alternating between their perspectives. What I loved the most about this detail is that even though we have two distinct points of view, the story never repeats the same scene twice. Instead of pausing or repeating events, each chapter seamlessly continues the story from another character’s perspective, always moving the narrative forward. This approach makes the story incredibly dynamic, vivid, and almost cinematographic. In fact, that is a characteristic of Jan Hahn’s writing, its exquisite and vivid quality allows each scene to unfold effortlessly before the reader’s eyes. The choice of first person was also brilliant, because it allowed us to connect more deeply with the characters’ emotions, I thought it was a nice touch and a true testament to Hahn’s talent. Many times, I found myself wishing the author would retell the story again but this time from Tristan’s, Nate’s, and Darcy’s points of view. One can always dream, right?
Another aspect I absolutely loved was the author’s depiction of the Antebellum South with rich portrayals of New Orleans, its surrounding countryside, the plantantions and a society shaped by the social tensions and injustices caused by slavery. I felt transported into this era, and loved it.
The end of the book was also perfect! Having Beth find Elizabeth’s journal was the cherry on top of the cake, and the one moment I actually cried. When I read those first sentences, I couldn’t believe how clever the author had been to tighten up the two books. It was perfect! I only wish Morgan could have found some happiness, because just like in The Journey, I felt sorry for him.
This book was an emotional journey for me. I loved every single page, and I didn’t want to finish it because I knew it would be the last story I would ever read from Jan Hahn, a thought that is hard to fathom. Very few authors have the talent she has to bring a story so vividly to life, and I admit this is one of the most difficult reviews I’ve written because it is impossible to put into words how wonderful this book is.
Belle Lisette is not only a worthy sequel to The Journey but a masterpiece in its own right. Jan Hahn’s exquisite writing style is one of the book’s greatest strengths, drawing the reader into a world that feels alive with depth and emotion. Her characters are fully three-dimensional, their fears, resentments and dreams resonating with such authenticity that it is impossible not to feel deeply connected to them. The romances, whether young and passionate or mature and enduring are intense, heartfelt, and beautifully portrayed. This is the kind of book that lingers in your heart long after the last page, and I honestly do not know why there aren’t more people talking about it. I highly recommend this book which was by far my favorite book in the last couple of years.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Belle Lisette is the sequel to one of my all-time favorite JAFF books, The Journey, so I could not wait to read it when I heard it was coming out. Even though I am well aware of Jan Hahn’s talent, I never expected Belle Lisette to be as good as The Journey, but it is! I kept reading with a conflicting feeling: I didn’t want to stop because I was loving it, yet I wanted to slow down because once I finished it, it would be over. I simply cannot believe this will be the last book I’ll ever read from Jan Hahn. She is definitely one of the best writers I have ever read, and this book was incredibly special, so be prepared, this is going to be a long review!
Set in 1840, this story follows the Darcy’s and the Bingley’s as they journey with their families to New Orleans to help their sons seek their fortunes. It is there they encounter Tristan and Jubar Morgan, the sons of Nate Morgan, the dashing highwayman who abducted Elizabeth and Darcy when they were young, and whose actions allowed their love story to become so powerful. As old grudges and fears resurface for the older generation, new love blossoms for the younger one, and both stories intertwine in unexpected ways.
The story is as much about Beth and Tristan’s romance as it is about Elizabeth and Darcy’s, perhaps even more so about Elizabeth and Darcy. Darcy’s unwavering love for Elizabeth shone through, and I especially enjoyed watching him confront his inner fears when Nate Morgan reentered their lives. Their enduring love after so many years together was beautifully portrayed and the way they knew each other so deeply made every moment special. I could feel Darcy’s pain and sense of betrayal just as vividly as I could feel Elizabeth’s devotion to her husband. Every scene between them was powerful in a way. It was such a mature, realistic and moving relationship!
As for Beth and Tristan, at the beginning I have to admit I was more captivated by their romance than by Elizabeth and Darcy’s, largely because Tristan was such a swoon-worthy hero. Responsible, honorable, strong… He seemed like a younger version of Darcy but with a different vibe, maybe a more playful tone. I fell for him within the first few scenes he shared with Beth! Later in the book I expected him to be a bit more of a force of nature, but I was still happy with the way their story unfolded in the end. Beth was an amazing female character, and she got everything she deserved in the end 😊
It was beautiful and rewarding to see both relationships grow, and to feel the difference between young love and the profound love built over decades. This contrast was exquisitely done by the author, who wove both romances together and tied them back not only to each other, but also to The Journey.
Belle Lisette is told in the first person by both Elizabeth and her daughter Beth, with each chapter alternating between their perspectives. What I loved the most about this detail is that even though we have two distinct points of view, the story never repeats the same scene twice. Instead of pausing or repeating events, each chapter seamlessly continues the story from another character’s perspective, always moving the narrative forward. This approach makes the story incredibly dynamic, vivid, and almost cinematographic. In fact, that is a characteristic of Jan Hahn’s writing, its exquisite and vivid quality allows each scene to unfold effortlessly before the reader’s eyes. The choice of first person was also brilliant, because it allowed us to connect more deeply with the characters’ emotions, I thought it was a nice touch and a true testament to Hahn’s talent. Many times, I found myself wishing the author would retell the story again but this time from Tristan’s, Nate’s, and Darcy’s points of view. One can always dream, right?
Another aspect I absolutely loved was the author’s depiction of the Antebellum South with rich portrayals of New Orleans, its surrounding countryside, the plantantions and a society shaped by the social tensions and injustices caused by slavery. I felt transported into this era, and loved it.
The end of the book was also perfect! Having Beth find Elizabeth’s journal was the cherry on top of the cake, and the one moment I actually cried. When I read those first sentences, I couldn’t believe how clever the author had been to tighten up the two books. It was perfect! I only wish Morgan could have found some happiness, because just like in The Journey, I felt sorry for him.
This book was an emotional journey for me. I loved every single page, and I didn’t want to finish it because I knew it would be the last story I would ever read from Jan Hahn, a thought that is hard to fathom. Very few authors have the talent she has to bring a story so vividly to life, and I admit this is one of the most difficult reviews I’ve written because it is impossible to put into words how wonderful this book is.
Belle Lisette is not only a worthy sequel to The Journey but a masterpiece in its own right. Jan Hahn’s exquisite writing style is one of the book’s greatest strengths, drawing the reader into a world that feels alive with depth and emotion. Her characters are fully three-dimensional, their fears, resentments and dreams resonating with such authenticity that it is impossible not to feel deeply connected to them. The romances, whether young and passionate or mature and enduring are intense, heartfelt, and beautifully portrayed. This is the kind of book that lingers in your heart long after the last page, and I honestly do not know why there aren’t more people talking about it. I highly recommend this book which was by far my favorite book in the last couple of years.
December 5, 2024
Keeping secrets from someone is no different than lying to them. It is still dishonest. — Author Unknown
The first chapter discloses the first secret in this book: a young girl rebels against the restrictions placed upon her in a new country. She sneaks away for an adventure that draws her deeper into a secret hidden inside her family for three decades.
Beth Darcy, the youngest child of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy of Pemberley, accompanies her parents, brother, aunt, uncle, and two cousins across the sea to New Orleans, Louisiana, a region previously visited by her brother, Henry.
This book is a sequel to “The Journey” by the same author. At the end of that book, Henry’s journey is told to his mother. Parts of his adventure are not disclosed to his father.
I thought about how there are two types of secrets: the kind you want to keep in, and the kind you don’t dare let out. — Ally Carter
Fitzwilliam Darcy would be outraged to learn that his son had fallen in love with the daughter of Nate Morgan, an enemy from long ago. If he had known, he would never have agreed to the trip to America.
In fact, Darcy had reservations about the reason for the visit: Bingley’s youngest son seems unable to settle down to any sort of gainful life in England. Somehow, Bingley believes that if he purchased a plantation, that same son would be dedicated to the work of an estate owner, and would no longer need parental supervision. Yeah, right. I agree with Darcy on this one.
Still, four Bingleys and four Darcys travel to the pre-Civil War South.
There are secrets in all families. — Jane Austen
The Darcys have kept secrets from their adult children.
Nate Morgan has kept secrets from his adult children.
Henry’s secret love is impossible to keep from his father.
Some secrets are better left at that as secrets. — W. Somerset Maugham
When I read “The Journey” years ago, I found the character Nate Morgan to have many attractive qualities. Thirty years later, his character didn’t entice me at all. His life without love had altered him in very unattractive ways.
If you have never read “The Journey” I would advise reading it before beginning this sequel, because it is a great adventure romance. “Belle Lisette” can be enjoyed as a standalone since enough background information is revealed.
Slavery
Creole culture
Rising from the depths of poverty
Plantation life for blacks and whites
Life as a free black woman in New Orleans
The tapestry covers it all.
Some secrets are like fossils and the stone has become too heavy to turn over. — Delphine de Vigan
The first chapter discloses the first secret in this book: a young girl rebels against the restrictions placed upon her in a new country. She sneaks away for an adventure that draws her deeper into a secret hidden inside her family for three decades.
Beth Darcy, the youngest child of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy of Pemberley, accompanies her parents, brother, aunt, uncle, and two cousins across the sea to New Orleans, Louisiana, a region previously visited by her brother, Henry.
This book is a sequel to “The Journey” by the same author. At the end of that book, Henry’s journey is told to his mother. Parts of his adventure are not disclosed to his father.
I thought about how there are two types of secrets: the kind you want to keep in, and the kind you don’t dare let out. — Ally Carter
Fitzwilliam Darcy would be outraged to learn that his son had fallen in love with the daughter of Nate Morgan, an enemy from long ago. If he had known, he would never have agreed to the trip to America.
In fact, Darcy had reservations about the reason for the visit: Bingley’s youngest son seems unable to settle down to any sort of gainful life in England. Somehow, Bingley believes that if he purchased a plantation, that same son would be dedicated to the work of an estate owner, and would no longer need parental supervision. Yeah, right. I agree with Darcy on this one.
Still, four Bingleys and four Darcys travel to the pre-Civil War South.
There are secrets in all families. — Jane Austen
The Darcys have kept secrets from their adult children.
Nate Morgan has kept secrets from his adult children.
Henry’s secret love is impossible to keep from his father.
Some secrets are better left at that as secrets. — W. Somerset Maugham
When I read “The Journey” years ago, I found the character Nate Morgan to have many attractive qualities. Thirty years later, his character didn’t entice me at all. His life without love had altered him in very unattractive ways.
If you have never read “The Journey” I would advise reading it before beginning this sequel, because it is a great adventure romance. “Belle Lisette” can be enjoyed as a standalone since enough background information is revealed.
Slavery
Creole culture
Rising from the depths of poverty
Plantation life for blacks and whites
Life as a free black woman in New Orleans
The tapestry covers it all.
Some secrets are like fossils and the stone has become too heavy to turn over. — Delphine de Vigan
January 27, 2025
Wow, thank you, Jan Hahn for giving us an ending to this story. I loved the Journey and now my eyes are tearing upon finishing Belle Lisette. Thank you very much.
December 3, 2024
Jan Hahn’s “Belle Lisette” is a masterpiece that expertly weaves together romance, suspense, and deep emotional resonance. As the highly anticipated sequel to “The Journey,” this novel takes readers back into the lives of the beloved Darcys and the dangerous and enigmatic highwayman Nate Morgan, setting the stage for a compelling new chapter full of intrigue and passion.
Set in the Antebellum South, “Belle Lisette” drew me into a lush and atmospheric world where secrets and past wounds simmer just beneath the surface. Fitzwilliam Darcy, now almost thirty years after his first clash with Morgan, finds himself once again face-to-face with the man who once haunted his past. As the Darcys and the Bingleys travel to New Orleans to help their sons seek their fortunes, they inadvertently become entangled with Morgan, who has built a life of prosperity and influence.
Hahn’s character development is one of the novel’s strongest suits. Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s internal struggles, weighed down by secrets from their past, are palpable and realistic. Their complex emotions toward Morgan—both resentment and a lingering sense of jeopardy—are executed with finesse. Elizabeth, as always, shines as a loving and supportive partner, balancing Darcy’s brooding nature with her own strength and wit.
“My love was a good man. His father had been a good man. I did not know whether this man Beth loved was good, but I knew for certain his father was not.” –Chapter 18.
The new generation, particularly the often-audacious Beth (who sometimes showed shades of Scarlett O’Hara), brings a fresh dynamic to the story as she becomes the object of affection for Morgan’s handsome sons, adding layers of tension and romance, even echoing the forbidden love in “Romeo and Juliet” to the plot.
“Mr Morgan drew exceedingly close to his son and shook his finger in his face. By that time, they stood so near me I saw his eyes as he stared at Jubal. They had darkened and could only be described as menacing. “She’s not for Tristan. Not ever. Do you hear? Darcy’s daughter is for you?” –Chapter 17.
Still, the primary story is always about Elizabeth and Darcy, knowing, hoping, and praying that their love can endure the secrets long thought buried.
The Antebellum South setting is evocative. Hahn’s vivid descriptions of a grand plantation, New Orleans and the surrounding countryside, the culture, and the tensions and injustices of the time transported me into a world full of social complexities, heavily characterized by the intuition of enslaved people, where the economy was reliant on sugar, cotton, and tobacco plantations. The romance between the younger characters is tender and thrilling, while the mysteries surrounding Morgan’s past unfold, leaving me to wonder who would suffer from the sins of the father.
Whether you are familiar with “The Journey” or coming to this story for the first time, “Belle Lisette” stands on its own as a captivating tale of love, redemption, and the ever-present shadows of the past. Jan Hahn has once again crafted a story that will tug at your heartstrings, leaving you eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
If you're a fan of historical romance, compelling characters, and intricately woven plots, this book is an absolute must-read. Five stars, without a doubt!
I am still in shock that the author has claimed this to be her final novel. For that reason alone, this should be read and lauded sooner than later.
Set in the Antebellum South, “Belle Lisette” drew me into a lush and atmospheric world where secrets and past wounds simmer just beneath the surface. Fitzwilliam Darcy, now almost thirty years after his first clash with Morgan, finds himself once again face-to-face with the man who once haunted his past. As the Darcys and the Bingleys travel to New Orleans to help their sons seek their fortunes, they inadvertently become entangled with Morgan, who has built a life of prosperity and influence.
Hahn’s character development is one of the novel’s strongest suits. Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s internal struggles, weighed down by secrets from their past, are palpable and realistic. Their complex emotions toward Morgan—both resentment and a lingering sense of jeopardy—are executed with finesse. Elizabeth, as always, shines as a loving and supportive partner, balancing Darcy’s brooding nature with her own strength and wit.
“My love was a good man. His father had been a good man. I did not know whether this man Beth loved was good, but I knew for certain his father was not.” –Chapter 18.
The new generation, particularly the often-audacious Beth (who sometimes showed shades of Scarlett O’Hara), brings a fresh dynamic to the story as she becomes the object of affection for Morgan’s handsome sons, adding layers of tension and romance, even echoing the forbidden love in “Romeo and Juliet” to the plot.
“Mr Morgan drew exceedingly close to his son and shook his finger in his face. By that time, they stood so near me I saw his eyes as he stared at Jubal. They had darkened and could only be described as menacing. “She’s not for Tristan. Not ever. Do you hear? Darcy’s daughter is for you?” –Chapter 17.
Still, the primary story is always about Elizabeth and Darcy, knowing, hoping, and praying that their love can endure the secrets long thought buried.
The Antebellum South setting is evocative. Hahn’s vivid descriptions of a grand plantation, New Orleans and the surrounding countryside, the culture, and the tensions and injustices of the time transported me into a world full of social complexities, heavily characterized by the intuition of enslaved people, where the economy was reliant on sugar, cotton, and tobacco plantations. The romance between the younger characters is tender and thrilling, while the mysteries surrounding Morgan’s past unfold, leaving me to wonder who would suffer from the sins of the father.
Whether you are familiar with “The Journey” or coming to this story for the first time, “Belle Lisette” stands on its own as a captivating tale of love, redemption, and the ever-present shadows of the past. Jan Hahn has once again crafted a story that will tug at your heartstrings, leaving you eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
If you're a fan of historical romance, compelling characters, and intricately woven plots, this book is an absolute must-read. Five stars, without a doubt!
I am still in shock that the author has claimed this to be her final novel. For that reason alone, this should be read and lauded sooner than later.
November 30, 2024
I have been waiting twelve years for this story and it was worth the wait.
One concern I had, before I began reading, was that it would focus on the former highwayman, Nate Morgan. It did not. Instead, we are treated to a tale that shows the strength of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy’s character and the depth of their love, especially when threatened by their own fears and by others.
I LOVED this book.
One concern I had, before I began reading, was that it would focus on the former highwayman, Nate Morgan. It did not. Instead, we are treated to a tale that shows the strength of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy’s character and the depth of their love, especially when threatened by their own fears and by others.
I LOVED this book.
December 31, 2024
Stands up well to "The Journey," which is one of my all-time favourite JAFF books. The style of this book is different and well accomplished.
January 2, 2026
Reading this was like looking at a giddy teenager through her mother’s eyes and vice versa. It’s a beautiful and fascinating conclusion to The Journey. I really enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews