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Le Veq Family #1
Through the Storm
Sable, a slave on the run to escape the cruel man she's been sold to is forced to betray the charming Union officer Raimond LeVeq, who had romanced her and championed her. Brought together again by fate and an arranged marriage, she must try and win the trust of LeVeq--the man she truly loves.
12 pages, Audiobook
First published August 1, 1998
166 people are currently reading
2694 people want to read
About the author
Beverly Jenkins
70 books4,826 followersBeverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts 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 both in 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 inclusive 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. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in 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 inclusive 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. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
July 5, 2023
“She was forced to call upon a strength and fearlessness she’d never known she possessed.”
I don’t even know where to begin with this novel. So much was packed into it.
It’s very much a historical fiction as well as a romance.
I always enjoy how Beverly Jenkins focuses on telling Black love stories within a setting and timeframe that was so ridiculously tumultuous and oppressive.
The audacity of White America is very much apparent in this book.
At times, the pacing did feel off. As much as I enjoy reading the historical side of things, I don’t always enjoy it if it’s not blended well into the story and that was the only qualm I had with this book. Occasionally, it felt text-bookish.
But onto the characters and the romance.
Beverly Jenkins is always known for writing strong and intelligent heroines and Sable Fontaine was no different. Her women are something to be admired and I think Sable Fontaine has got to be one of my favourites.
Formerly a slave, she escapes that life and is determined to make the most of her freedom.
Raimond is someone who hasn’t experienced slavery but is very much fighting the fight and restoring the honour and freedom of his people.
The romance that developed between them both, amidst the chaos of the Civil War, had me feeling all kinds of mush. 🥰
“I never thought I’d be able to love again, but to him I gave not only my love but my soul.”
I loved his family! They provided the comic relief that was needed and the family and home that Sable had lost. And their family expanded in the most beautiful of ways.
There were appearances from certain characters which I LOVED! Rhine, who is Sable’s brother and passing as a White man, is a story you can find in ‘Forbidden’ as well as Galen and Hester from ‘Indigo’. It was honestly such a treat seeing their story flourish.
I’m just excited to read more from Beverly Jenkins. I find her stories, romances to be comforting, despite whatever situation she puts her characters in.
*Trigger warnings for slavery, racism, child neglect and abuse.*
I don’t even know where to begin with this novel. So much was packed into it.
It’s very much a historical fiction as well as a romance.
I always enjoy how Beverly Jenkins focuses on telling Black love stories within a setting and timeframe that was so ridiculously tumultuous and oppressive.
The audacity of White America is very much apparent in this book.
At times, the pacing did feel off. As much as I enjoy reading the historical side of things, I don’t always enjoy it if it’s not blended well into the story and that was the only qualm I had with this book. Occasionally, it felt text-bookish.
But onto the characters and the romance.
Beverly Jenkins is always known for writing strong and intelligent heroines and Sable Fontaine was no different. Her women are something to be admired and I think Sable Fontaine has got to be one of my favourites.
Formerly a slave, she escapes that life and is determined to make the most of her freedom.
Raimond is someone who hasn’t experienced slavery but is very much fighting the fight and restoring the honour and freedom of his people.
The romance that developed between them both, amidst the chaos of the Civil War, had me feeling all kinds of mush. 🥰
“I never thought I’d be able to love again, but to him I gave not only my love but my soul.”
I loved his family! They provided the comic relief that was needed and the family and home that Sable had lost. And their family expanded in the most beautiful of ways.
There were appearances from certain characters which I LOVED! Rhine, who is Sable’s brother and passing as a White man, is a story you can find in ‘Forbidden’ as well as Galen and Hester from ‘Indigo’. It was honestly such a treat seeing their story flourish.
I’m just excited to read more from Beverly Jenkins. I find her stories, romances to be comforting, despite whatever situation she puts her characters in.
*Trigger warnings for slavery, racism, child neglect and abuse.*
Read
August 12, 2019An early Ms Bev, and a classic, with Raimond and Sable (whose siblings' love stories I have been consuming for months, so it's a bit funny to come to this one completely out of order. As ever, a powerful love story with swoony but deep-down sensible people, fantastic informative setting, wide scope, and a refusal to shy away from the deep wells of hatred and racism that underlie America's history of white supremacy. She remains the Queen.
January 16, 2019
I love listening to Kim Staunton narrate these books. She brings those old time periods to life. The author always adds history in a way that isn’t preachy instead, I feel more educated while enjoying a love story.
Sable was a great heroine and I really loved her strength and compassion. Especially with the injured soldiers and the orphans. The Le Veq family also seemed like an honorable lot. This story was well written, and kept my attention from page 1 to the last page. I can’t wait to try book 2
Sable was a great heroine and I really loved her strength and compassion. Especially with the injured soldiers and the orphans. The Le Veq family also seemed like an honorable lot. This story was well written, and kept my attention from page 1 to the last page. I can’t wait to try book 2
February 10, 2023
I loved this book so much! Not only was it a delectable romance, but it had some interesting issues of that day.
Rhine, Sable’s brother dealt with the struggle his whole life about passing for white. He said he was tired of being 3/5 a man, and just wanted to live, to survive. This is one of the many reasons why I love Beverly Jenkins HR because she teaches us so much. It’s like you walk away with a full experience of that time and how it was.
Sable’s character was strong, regal and a queen. Born a biracial Black woman, Sable knew what struggle and life as a slave was like. I love the rich ancestry that she had, and the foretellings that came to pass. I loved that we meet Araminta, and Sable learned that the rest of the world knew her as Harriet Tubman and that she was very famous.
I loved Sable’s beautiful description
“Her mysterious eyes were as green as the sea. In spite of her obvious mixed-race parentage, her rich dark hair knotted at her nape bore the wave and thickness of its African ancestry. One could also see her tribal roots in her proud nose and lush mouth.”
Major Raimond LeVeg met his match indeed when he laid his eyes upon Sable. What a twisty, unconventional path we took for this HEA. I absolutely loved it!!
Rhine, Sable’s brother dealt with the struggle his whole life about passing for white. He said he was tired of being 3/5 a man, and just wanted to live, to survive. This is one of the many reasons why I love Beverly Jenkins HR because she teaches us so much. It’s like you walk away with a full experience of that time and how it was.
Sable’s character was strong, regal and a queen. Born a biracial Black woman, Sable knew what struggle and life as a slave was like. I love the rich ancestry that she had, and the foretellings that came to pass. I loved that we meet Araminta, and Sable learned that the rest of the world knew her as Harriet Tubman and that she was very famous.
I loved Sable’s beautiful description
“Her mysterious eyes were as green as the sea. In spite of her obvious mixed-race parentage, her rich dark hair knotted at her nape bore the wave and thickness of its African ancestry. One could also see her tribal roots in her proud nose and lush mouth.”
Major Raimond LeVeg met his match indeed when he laid his eyes upon Sable. What a twisty, unconventional path we took for this HEA. I absolutely loved it!!
May 15, 2022
“Even queens need to be held now and then.”
4.5 stars/rounded up. I loved this one! Through the Storm is the first book in the LeVeq series. I’ve seen a lot of this family in other Beverly Jenkins reads so it was fun finally reading the book they’re introduced in.
The story takes place in Georgia in 1864, the heroine Sable is enslaved when the story begins. She ends up escaping but right before she did her Aunt informs her that she descends from African queens. She tells Sable about her fate/prophecy before dying in a fire. Sable does escape and ends up meeting Harriet Tubman who takes Sable to a refugee style war camp. There Sable meets Major Raimond LeVeq and they spend time together. They both fall for one another hard and fast, Raimond wants Sable for his mistress but she is not trying to be tied down to a man. I really enjoyed Raimond, he’s a possessive alpha hero and even gets jealous when he sees Sable spending time/talking to Rhine, who he doesn’t realize is her brother at first. While at the camp, Sable assists the doctors and sees more of the gory side of things. She assists with amputations, staunches wounds, and just provides care and support for the injured soldiers. After a bit Sable ends up taking off with some of Raimond’s money and later meets his mother, Julianna LeVeq and his brothers. Without knowing Sable & Raimond’s history, his mother actually arranges a marriage for them.
This book is epic, so much happening and I loved everything. The LeVeq family is amazing and I loved getting to meet all of them. We also have appearances from Hester & Galen (from Indigo) and Sable’s brother Rhine Fontaine (from Forbidden).
4.5 stars/rounded up. I loved this one! Through the Storm is the first book in the LeVeq series. I’ve seen a lot of this family in other Beverly Jenkins reads so it was fun finally reading the book they’re introduced in.
The story takes place in Georgia in 1864, the heroine Sable is enslaved when the story begins. She ends up escaping but right before she did her Aunt informs her that she descends from African queens. She tells Sable about her fate/prophecy before dying in a fire. Sable does escape and ends up meeting Harriet Tubman who takes Sable to a refugee style war camp. There Sable meets Major Raimond LeVeq and they spend time together. They both fall for one another hard and fast, Raimond wants Sable for his mistress but she is not trying to be tied down to a man. I really enjoyed Raimond, he’s a possessive alpha hero and even gets jealous when he sees Sable spending time/talking to Rhine, who he doesn’t realize is her brother at first. While at the camp, Sable assists the doctors and sees more of the gory side of things. She assists with amputations, staunches wounds, and just provides care and support for the injured soldiers. After a bit Sable ends up taking off with some of Raimond’s money and later meets his mother, Julianna LeVeq and his brothers. Without knowing Sable & Raimond’s history, his mother actually arranges a marriage for them.
This book is epic, so much happening and I loved everything. The LeVeq family is amazing and I loved getting to meet all of them. We also have appearances from Hester & Galen (from Indigo) and Sable’s brother Rhine Fontaine (from Forbidden).
December 25, 2021
Beverly Jenkins’ Through the Storm is a romance about a former slave finding love during the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era with a man from a proud and established Louisiana family of Haitian descent. I’ve only read one Beverly Jenkins romance, her first outing, Night Song, almost thirty years ago. I liked it but never picked up another book by this author and wanted to remedy that. Through the Storm has gained high marks and positive reviews. For my part, I found it engaging, although I couldn’t help but think it needed tightening up in some areas.
Sable Fontaine is a slave of mixed European and African ancestry. At the beginning of the book, she is 29 years old when an elderly aunt reveals her bloodline secret. Sable is told that she is the descendent of African queens and two generations of slave owners. Her current owner–and father–plans to sell her to a depraved man, known to be extremely brutal with slaves. Her aunt will not allow this.
Sable’s master is doomed to a fiery death as his home burns with him inside. Knowing she has to forge a place for herself, Sable flees to find a sanctuary. On her travels, she meets Harriet Tubman, who tells her Sable has been waiting for her. Tubman guides Sable to a contraband camp, a haven for refugee slaves.
Sable meets Union soldier Raimond LeVeq, who wastes no time letting Sable know of his attraction to her. He’s supposed to be suave and debonair, but sometimes he came off as trying too hard. Sable rebuffs his advancements, quickly figuring out his number.
She works at the camp, does errands and chores, helping the men with letters and other duties. Nevertheless, Raimond is a charmer, and Sable finds herself falling under his allure in time.
However, the evil man who purchased Sable looms on the horizon, forcing Sable to flee yet again, this time further North. Raimond is left with no word why. What could have been love turns into mistrust and contempt.
Sable finds herself face to face with Raimond later on, this time under different circumstances. He needs to find a wife. Raimond’s mother is convinced that Sable is the woman for him. So he reluctantly finds himself committed to the woman who almost broke his heart.
Sable and Raimond reconnect, learning to trust and care for one another again. Still, they have their struggles. Raimond comes on hard, but Sable is no pushover. Raimond has a mistress, although he quickly casts her aside. And danger still looms on the horizon, with the crazed villain determined to have Sable.
Through the Storm is a slightly uneven romance filled with multiple tropes and a hefty dose of history. I really wanted to love this but found myself skimming through some parts. It certainly does not merit an unfavorable rating, as I enjoyed many elements, but some of the negatives overshadowed them. The pacing is a bit off, as many events occur in one section, then nothing happens in others. Also, I could have done without some of the info-dumping “As you know Bob” dialogue.
Sable is a fantastic heroine, filled with grit and competence. Raimond is an “Alpha,” but he comes on so intense at times. Raimond’s nowhere as smooth as he thinks he is.
However, I’m pleased to note that the love scenes are well-done and erotic in a very 1990s fashion.
The villain is a rather hateful beast, and I relished his comeuppance.
I appreciated that Through the Storm was no wallpaper romance. It was a genuine historical–or at least, one where historical events mattered. All in all, I’m glad I read this one, but I think there are other romances by Jenkins that will be more suited to my tastes.
3.12 stars
Sable Fontaine is a slave of mixed European and African ancestry. At the beginning of the book, she is 29 years old when an elderly aunt reveals her bloodline secret. Sable is told that she is the descendent of African queens and two generations of slave owners. Her current owner–and father–plans to sell her to a depraved man, known to be extremely brutal with slaves. Her aunt will not allow this.
Sable’s master is doomed to a fiery death as his home burns with him inside. Knowing she has to forge a place for herself, Sable flees to find a sanctuary. On her travels, she meets Harriet Tubman, who tells her Sable has been waiting for her. Tubman guides Sable to a contraband camp, a haven for refugee slaves.
Sable meets Union soldier Raimond LeVeq, who wastes no time letting Sable know of his attraction to her. He’s supposed to be suave and debonair, but sometimes he came off as trying too hard. Sable rebuffs his advancements, quickly figuring out his number.
She works at the camp, does errands and chores, helping the men with letters and other duties. Nevertheless, Raimond is a charmer, and Sable finds herself falling under his allure in time.
However, the evil man who purchased Sable looms on the horizon, forcing Sable to flee yet again, this time further North. Raimond is left with no word why. What could have been love turns into mistrust and contempt.
Sable finds herself face to face with Raimond later on, this time under different circumstances. He needs to find a wife. Raimond’s mother is convinced that Sable is the woman for him. So he reluctantly finds himself committed to the woman who almost broke his heart.
Sable and Raimond reconnect, learning to trust and care for one another again. Still, they have their struggles. Raimond comes on hard, but Sable is no pushover. Raimond has a mistress, although he quickly casts her aside. And danger still looms on the horizon, with the crazed villain determined to have Sable.
Through the Storm is a slightly uneven romance filled with multiple tropes and a hefty dose of history. I really wanted to love this but found myself skimming through some parts. It certainly does not merit an unfavorable rating, as I enjoyed many elements, but some of the negatives overshadowed them. The pacing is a bit off, as many events occur in one section, then nothing happens in others. Also, I could have done without some of the info-dumping “As you know Bob” dialogue.
Sable is a fantastic heroine, filled with grit and competence. Raimond is an “Alpha,” but he comes on so intense at times. Raimond’s nowhere as smooth as he thinks he is.
However, I’m pleased to note that the love scenes are well-done and erotic in a very 1990s fashion.
The villain is a rather hateful beast, and I relished his comeuppance.
I appreciated that Through the Storm was no wallpaper romance. It was a genuine historical–or at least, one where historical events mattered. All in all, I’m glad I read this one, but I think there are other romances by Jenkins that will be more suited to my tastes.
3.12 stars
November 9, 2023
I really enjoyed this, I think I just expected a bit more in the second half! The romance wasn’t as satisfying as Indigo…but like is ANYTHING???
February 19, 2024
I love a woman with a PURPOSE. Beverly Jenkins teaches me so much with her books! Though this leaned more towards Historical Fiction vs. Historical Romance for me, I really enjoyed it. You get a good amount of history on slave owners and African descendants and I really enjoyed all the characters.
With all the history, I loved the way it was incorporated in the story and really love Beverly’s writing. The love scenes were also GIVING! I thought Sable was a fantastic heroine and we love to hate the villain in this one…I’ll need to read more on that Le Veq Family!
I mostly read this book but also dipped my toes in the audiobook and the narration was phenomenal. It felt like watching a PBS show on an amazing story? I can’t explain it 😂 I was mesmerized.
With all the history, I loved the way it was incorporated in the story and really love Beverly’s writing. The love scenes were also GIVING! I thought Sable was a fantastic heroine and we love to hate the villain in this one…I’ll need to read more on that Le Veq Family!
I mostly read this book but also dipped my toes in the audiobook and the narration was phenomenal. It felt like watching a PBS show on an amazing story? I can’t explain it 😂 I was mesmerized.
October 13, 2017
I love reading books about women with a purpose and men who are sensible enough to not be pompous. Beverly Jenkins can never do wrong in my book, so I have nothing bad to say about this book. I was actually trying to find something bad about her books and see if I could come up with a pattern for her stories and it was a fail. I learned a lot about the civil war in this book and the romance was very swoony.
May 4, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Sable, a slave on a plantation in the south, has reached her age of maturity. But when her mistress sells her to a horrible man that has been known to kill his slaves and accuse them unjustly, she knows she must find a way to escape. But when her only family, a beloved aunt is killed in a fire and she learns the truth of her heritage, that she is part of a family of queens. Now through the help of her ancestors and her faith, she flees and manages to reach a freedman camp and meets the charming Raymond LeVeq. She does laundry, writes letters for other ex slaves and aids in the medical tent and falls in love with Raymond. However, she is forced to flee when the man she fears the most comes for her to take ownership of her. She ends up in New Orleans and through a series of events ends up married to Raymond who believes her to be a betrayer. But soon Raymond and Sable reconnect their love affair, but there is danger lurking around the corner that could tear them apart forever.
Plot and Story Line
In Through The Storm, we get the continued story that began with Indigo. Now technically it is considered a single title, but I personally place it in this series, because it is connected to this family. We even get some interaction between Hester and Galen with this story and boy was that fun to see!! Through The Storm takes place a few years later from Indigo. Its at the end of the Civil War and we get to the beginning of the transition to the reconstruction era. This was a time period I haven't read too much of, but boy does Beverly Jenkins spin a historical tale with fabulous historical detail. As I was listening to this narration, I was swept away by this story and seeing certain historical events come into play with a mix of a powerful love story.
I was simply in love with this book in every moment I couldn't help but get excited by the play of events. I found quite a few surprises and twists, and what an entertaining read. Reconnecting with this author has been so fun, and I had forgotten how much I enjoy her writing. I loved the elements of two opposite people (honestly they are like oil and water). One is charismatic, charming and has no trouble finding women to bed at a crook of his finger and has money aplenty. Now Sable, has never had the chance to be flirty or charming. She has lived a life as a house slave, kept away from men. We see some growth in these characters, but most especially in Sable. She really comes into herself through her journey. I admired her strength and the ways that she stands up to Raymond. She is true to herself and her values, and I loved that she didn't just give into the seduction that Raymond wanted for her. She makes him work for it and yeah Raymond so deserved that. But after they are separated and come back together, they have to rebuild the trust they lost. But thankfully it doesn't take long and we also get more of the delightful LeVeq brothers. Now they are all so entertaining and I loved how this family stands together. There were serious moments, many fun and silly moments, fascinating moments and some tear jerking moments that bring about a well-balanced romance I couldn't get enough of.
The Narration
I really loved this narrator, at first I wasn't too impressed, she seems to be just a average one however I was really delighted in how she portrayed the accents. Her voice was pleasant and engaging and I couldn't wait to put my ear buds in to listen to her narrate this delightful story. I believe this narrator, really made this story even better and I am so glad I was able to get it in narration form.
The Cover
WHAT a cover!!! I just love it, because it portrays these two so well. I love how tender and sweet their pose is, with the warm colors displayed.
Overall View
Through The Storm is a stimulating romance that takes you through the Civil War Era and a couple finding a beautiful love in this tension filled time. MAJESTIC!!
[foogallery id="21376"]
Summary
Sable, a slave on a plantation in the south, has reached her age of maturity. But when her mistress sells her to a horrible man that has been known to kill his slaves and accuse them unjustly, she knows she must find a way to escape. But when her only family, a beloved aunt is killed in a fire and she learns the truth of her heritage, that she is part of a family of queens. Now through the help of her ancestors and her faith, she flees and manages to reach a freedman camp and meets the charming Raymond LeVeq. She does laundry, writes letters for other ex slaves and aids in the medical tent and falls in love with Raymond. However, she is forced to flee when the man she fears the most comes for her to take ownership of her. She ends up in New Orleans and through a series of events ends up married to Raymond who believes her to be a betrayer. But soon Raymond and Sable reconnect their love affair, but there is danger lurking around the corner that could tear them apart forever.
Plot and Story Line
In Through The Storm, we get the continued story that began with Indigo. Now technically it is considered a single title, but I personally place it in this series, because it is connected to this family. We even get some interaction between Hester and Galen with this story and boy was that fun to see!! Through The Storm takes place a few years later from Indigo. Its at the end of the Civil War and we get to the beginning of the transition to the reconstruction era. This was a time period I haven't read too much of, but boy does Beverly Jenkins spin a historical tale with fabulous historical detail. As I was listening to this narration, I was swept away by this story and seeing certain historical events come into play with a mix of a powerful love story.
I was simply in love with this book in every moment I couldn't help but get excited by the play of events. I found quite a few surprises and twists, and what an entertaining read. Reconnecting with this author has been so fun, and I had forgotten how much I enjoy her writing. I loved the elements of two opposite people (honestly they are like oil and water). One is charismatic, charming and has no trouble finding women to bed at a crook of his finger and has money aplenty. Now Sable, has never had the chance to be flirty or charming. She has lived a life as a house slave, kept away from men. We see some growth in these characters, but most especially in Sable. She really comes into herself through her journey. I admired her strength and the ways that she stands up to Raymond. She is true to herself and her values, and I loved that she didn't just give into the seduction that Raymond wanted for her. She makes him work for it and yeah Raymond so deserved that. But after they are separated and come back together, they have to rebuild the trust they lost. But thankfully it doesn't take long and we also get more of the delightful LeVeq brothers. Now they are all so entertaining and I loved how this family stands together. There were serious moments, many fun and silly moments, fascinating moments and some tear jerking moments that bring about a well-balanced romance I couldn't get enough of.
The Narration
I really loved this narrator, at first I wasn't too impressed, she seems to be just a average one however I was really delighted in how she portrayed the accents. Her voice was pleasant and engaging and I couldn't wait to put my ear buds in to listen to her narrate this delightful story. I believe this narrator, really made this story even better and I am so glad I was able to get it in narration form.
The Cover
WHAT a cover!!! I just love it, because it portrays these two so well. I love how tender and sweet their pose is, with the warm colors displayed.
Overall View
Through The Storm is a stimulating romance that takes you through the Civil War Era and a couple finding a beautiful love in this tension filled time. MAJESTIC!!
[foogallery id="21376"]
September 14, 2023
I absolutely loved this one. Happy reading!
January 3, 2025
Gentlemanly, heroism, chivalrous, Black empowerment, boldness, and much more. This is the LeVeq family and Stable Fontaine, a former slave and mulatto, marries into it. She piqued the interest of Raimond LeVeq and it left her breathless, speechless, and gave her a courage she did not know she had. Of course, slavery and all its hatred and bitterness is part of the story, the setting is towards the end of the civil war. Read how Stable finds her true love and a new family. It is important not to be alone in the world.
Quote:
The thought that there would be food riots in Charleston and Mobile, or that the Southern way of life would be destroyed, had been unthinkable.
"Later that night, she took a skinning knife and went up to Caufield's bedroom. After preparing and cleansing herself, she drew the blade across each wrist. She let herself bleed to death atop his bed."
In the middle of pouring a glass of wine, Raimond paused and glanced into her exotic eyes. He shook his head and chuckled. "Miss Fontaine, you will not have to be dessert. However...." He took a moment to pour her a glass of wine as well. "If I wanted you for dessert, I'd have you for dessert. And trust me, you would be willing."
"Relax, ma reine...."he breathed against her ear. "Let me teach you...."
"Slavery is dead, the negro is not, there is the misfortune."
Quote:
The thought that there would be food riots in Charleston and Mobile, or that the Southern way of life would be destroyed, had been unthinkable.
"Later that night, she took a skinning knife and went up to Caufield's bedroom. After preparing and cleansing herself, she drew the blade across each wrist. She let herself bleed to death atop his bed."
In the middle of pouring a glass of wine, Raimond paused and glanced into her exotic eyes. He shook his head and chuckled. "Miss Fontaine, you will not have to be dessert. However...." He took a moment to pour her a glass of wine as well. "If I wanted you for dessert, I'd have you for dessert. And trust me, you would be willing."
"Relax, ma reine...."he breathed against her ear. "Let me teach you...."
"Slavery is dead, the negro is not, there is the misfortune."
August 21, 2015
The book opens in Georgia in 1864. Sable Fontaine, a house slave sold for $800 to an evil man, escapes. Along the way, she meets Raimond Le Veq at a slave camp. Immediately lured in my Sable's green eyes, Raimond falls for her. When Sable's freedom is threatened, she takes off rather than risk being sent back into slavery, leaving an angry and heartbroken Raimond behind.
Years later, the two meet again in New Orleans when Raimond's mother introduces Sable to him as the woman she wants him to marry. Raimond cannot hide his anger at Sable, but agrees to the marriage. Although Raimond doesn't trust her, he can't help but be intrigued by her. Eventually, the marriage of convenience turns into one of love.
Sable was a remarkable, resourceful, intelligent woman. She was a descendent of African Queens, and through her story, I learned about African royalty. Raimond was a brat, but he was HOT! He was so tender, so fiercely loyal, so dominating (in a good way)... I couldn't help but love him. The two scorched up the pages. Amidst the turmoil in their lives, they manage to get past the hurt and anger and just revel in their love for each other.
There was never a dull moment with this delightful cast of characters. In this book, Ms. Jenkins, introduced us to the Le Veq clan. (Well, maybe reintroduced for those of us who'd read Indigo.) The Le Veq brothers were equally handsome yet completely different from each other. They also provided a bit of comic relief. And just so you know, the Le Veq brothers are also featured in Winds of the Storm and Captured. Also, Ms. Jenkins gave us a treat by bringing Galeno and Hester Vachon (from Indigo) back to life and giving us a glimpse into their life during this period.
Beverly Jenkins is an exceptional writer with a knack for storytelling. I guess it should be no surprise that I loved this book. Through the Storm was so awesome, I read again after I finished—just in case I missed something. Once again, I was transported into a world I could only imagine in my dreams. Ms. Jenkins does a wonderful job of capturing a reader's attention with vivid imagery, memorable characters, and Black history. I highly recommend Through the Storm to anyone looking for a fabulous, historical romance.
Years later, the two meet again in New Orleans when Raimond's mother introduces Sable to him as the woman she wants him to marry. Raimond cannot hide his anger at Sable, but agrees to the marriage. Although Raimond doesn't trust her, he can't help but be intrigued by her. Eventually, the marriage of convenience turns into one of love.
Sable was a remarkable, resourceful, intelligent woman. She was a descendent of African Queens, and through her story, I learned about African royalty. Raimond was a brat, but he was HOT! He was so tender, so fiercely loyal, so dominating (in a good way)... I couldn't help but love him. The two scorched up the pages. Amidst the turmoil in their lives, they manage to get past the hurt and anger and just revel in their love for each other.
There was never a dull moment with this delightful cast of characters. In this book, Ms. Jenkins, introduced us to the Le Veq clan. (Well, maybe reintroduced for those of us who'd read Indigo.) The Le Veq brothers were equally handsome yet completely different from each other. They also provided a bit of comic relief. And just so you know, the Le Veq brothers are also featured in Winds of the Storm and Captured. Also, Ms. Jenkins gave us a treat by bringing Galeno and Hester Vachon (from Indigo) back to life and giving us a glimpse into their life during this period.
Beverly Jenkins is an exceptional writer with a knack for storytelling. I guess it should be no surprise that I loved this book. Through the Storm was so awesome, I read again after I finished—just in case I missed something. Once again, I was transported into a world I could only imagine in my dreams. Ms. Jenkins does a wonderful job of capturing a reader's attention with vivid imagery, memorable characters, and Black history. I highly recommend Through the Storm to anyone looking for a fabulous, historical romance.
January 16, 2016
Through the Storm
After reading Indigo and learning about Raimond and his brothers, I was hoping to read more about them. I enjoyed reading about the budding romance and attraction between Sable and Raimond. I tell you Ms. Jenkins' really knows how to make a story come to life. She makes you feel like you're right there in the heat of all the action and the drama. She entertains as well as educates. I can't say I've ever enjoyed a history lesson so much as when I'm reading one of her historical fictions. Also while reading this particular story my heart ached for the characters. And the trials they had to go through in order to maintain their freedom. Once again, the worst thing about a Beverly Jenkins' book is that you never want them to end. Keep 'em coming, Ms. Jenkins!
After reading Indigo and learning about Raimond and his brothers, I was hoping to read more about them. I enjoyed reading about the budding romance and attraction between Sable and Raimond. I tell you Ms. Jenkins' really knows how to make a story come to life. She makes you feel like you're right there in the heat of all the action and the drama. She entertains as well as educates. I can't say I've ever enjoyed a history lesson so much as when I'm reading one of her historical fictions. Also while reading this particular story my heart ached for the characters. And the trials they had to go through in order to maintain their freedom. Once again, the worst thing about a Beverly Jenkins' book is that you never want them to end. Keep 'em coming, Ms. Jenkins!
November 23, 2018
another tender love story by Beverly Jenkins!
July 1, 2020
We first meet Raimond in Indigo, as he helps his best friend Galen out. He laughed hard and enjoyed the merry chase Hester inadvertently led Galen on, so of course, Galen hoped Raimond would meet a similar fate. Raimond has never met a woman he hasn’t won over until he meets Sable. And boy howdy, it was a doozie of a ride!
There’s sooo many things about this one! Harriet Tubman, the “contrabands” camp, guerrilla Rebel warfare, land seizing, and of course the slavery issue, domestic and political. The romance is always an extra but I admit I devour these books because of the history. It’s a completely different perspective on events and really personalizes things to a level you would have to blind not to empathize with.
If you’re looking for strong minded females, Ms. Bev writes some of the best I’ve come across and any book of hers you pick up, you won’t be disappointed.
There’s sooo many things about this one! Harriet Tubman, the “contrabands” camp, guerrilla Rebel warfare, land seizing, and of course the slavery issue, domestic and political. The romance is always an extra but I admit I devour these books because of the history. It’s a completely different perspective on events and really personalizes things to a level you would have to blind not to empathize with.
If you’re looking for strong minded females, Ms. Bev writes some of the best I’ve come across and any book of hers you pick up, you won’t be disappointed.
April 1, 2025
If I could read about every historical event with a book like this, I think I would be a much better student of history. I picked this one up because Rebel is my favorite Beverly Jenkins book, and it was written in the 2020’s to continue the story of the Le Veq family, which Through the Storm starts. I was excited to see more of this wealthy, Black, New Orleans family.
This is sort of a second chance romance - the lovers meet, and halfway through the book there’s a misunderstanding so they separate for some time, and then they reconnect when the MMC’s mom convinces them to get married? Weird plot, but I liked it. The characters had great chemistry, and even though I was annoyed with what separated them, I overall enjoyed the book.
In part, I just like seeing Black characters in a historical setting given a lot of agency. I like that Jenkins never shies away from the horrors of the time period that she’s writing, but there is plenty of joy to be found as well.
This is sort of a second chance romance - the lovers meet, and halfway through the book there’s a misunderstanding so they separate for some time, and then they reconnect when the MMC’s mom convinces them to get married? Weird plot, but I liked it. The characters had great chemistry, and even though I was annoyed with what separated them, I overall enjoyed the book.
In part, I just like seeing Black characters in a historical setting given a lot of agency. I like that Jenkins never shies away from the horrors of the time period that she’s writing, but there is plenty of joy to be found as well.
October 18, 2025
4-4.25 stars
Raimond/Sable
I enjoyed this one. It seems like Midnight was a fluke and I’m glad I didn’t let one book write me off of Mrs. Jenkins’ work. I really like how she weaves a story. There’s little pomp and circumstance to pad the book. Everything is necessary, yet succinct. I can’t wait to read about the other characters, especially the Brats.
Raimond/Sable
I enjoyed this one. It seems like Midnight was a fluke and I’m glad I didn’t let one book write me off of Mrs. Jenkins’ work. I really like how she weaves a story. There’s little pomp and circumstance to pad the book. Everything is necessary, yet succinct. I can’t wait to read about the other characters, especially the Brats.
August 25, 2025
Mrs. Beverly can do no wrong in my eyes! Her writing is unmatched when it comes to historical romance, you get both rich history and heartfelt passion. Overall, I loved the story, especially one of my favorite tropes (marriage of convenience) but I can’t lie those somber truths hit hard!
March 10, 2020
Cute historical romance novel.
A slave finding love as she runs to become free but her past seems to follow her.
Intriguing love story.
A slave finding love as she runs to become free but her past seems to follow her.
Intriguing love story.
August 21, 2025
Great story.
February 8, 2018
Beverly Jenkins novels have been hit-or-miss for me. It usually all comes down to the characters and whether I'm invested in their romance. Sadly, "Through the Storm" failed on both fronts: I didn't like the hero and the romance was weak.
Before I get to far, let me start by saying the book's pacing is WAY off. If you read the description, you probably gathered that this story uses the second-chance/lovers-to-enemies/fake-marriage-turns-real tropes. And it does, but you'll be more than 200 pages in before the book begins to deliver on that. I wouldn't have minded the detour as much if I liked the characters more.
Raimond is written to be a suave, smooth ladies' man who's super confident in himself and his ability to woo women. Confident, to the point of arrogance, in fact. I hate this kind of hero. This guy may be fun for some readers to fantasize about, but I've dated men who thought they were that suave, smooth and seductive hero. Spoiler alert: They weren't. They never are. So while this character is written to be Don Juan, I just kept picturing Pepe LePew.
Also, there's a lot of conflict that arises between the two characters (War! Betrayal! Confederate spies! A marriage of convenience!), but none of it is dealt with appropriately. Raimond acts like an asshole, seething about how betrayed he feels. Sable's a wimp and let him do that. Then they just ... move on? No one ever really apologizes for their behavior. She never even tries to explain why she did what she did. They just start having sex. It's not really the grand love story you'd expect.
Beyond the romance, there were a lot of technical choices in this book that were just odd. Harriet Tubman is a character in this book, guys. She shows up to lead Sable to a contraband camp and then is sort of shuffled off and out of the story. I love the history in Jenkins' novels, but I don't need prominent historical figures literally playing matchmaker for the characters.
Overall, not my favorite. Raimond is competing with Kent (from Breathless) as my least favorite Beverly Jenkins hero. Maybe skip this one.
Before I get to far, let me start by saying the book's pacing is WAY off. If you read the description, you probably gathered that this story uses the second-chance/lovers-to-enemies/fake-marriage-turns-real tropes. And it does, but you'll be more than 200 pages in before the book begins to deliver on that. I wouldn't have minded the detour as much if I liked the characters more.
Raimond is written to be a suave, smooth ladies' man who's super confident in himself and his ability to woo women. Confident, to the point of arrogance, in fact. I hate this kind of hero. This guy may be fun for some readers to fantasize about, but I've dated men who thought they were that suave, smooth and seductive hero. Spoiler alert: They weren't. They never are. So while this character is written to be Don Juan, I just kept picturing Pepe LePew.
Also, there's a lot of conflict that arises between the two characters (War! Betrayal! Confederate spies! A marriage of convenience!), but none of it is dealt with appropriately. Raimond acts like an asshole, seething about how betrayed he feels. Sable's a wimp and let him do that. Then they just ... move on? No one ever really apologizes for their behavior. She never even tries to explain why she did what she did. They just start having sex. It's not really the grand love story you'd expect.
Beyond the romance, there were a lot of technical choices in this book that were just odd. Harriet Tubman is a character in this book, guys. She shows up to lead Sable to a contraband camp and then is sort of shuffled off and out of the story. I love the history in Jenkins' novels, but I don't need prominent historical figures literally playing matchmaker for the characters.
Overall, not my favorite. Raimond is competing with Kent (from Breathless) as my least favorite Beverly Jenkins hero. Maybe skip this one.
February 17, 2016
Having just read Indigo two days ago, and Forbidden two weeks ago, I thought this was a great place to continue my Beverly Jenkins marathon. Rhine's story showed us Sable after this story, and we met Raimond in Indigo, which was before this book took place. So, I figured why not read about them?
So I did. And I liked it. Sable made for a strong and determined heroine, whereas Raimond was arrogant, but really nice once he got over himself. This novel really highlighted slavery, as Sable was a slave. It also took place during the Civil War, so of course there was tension from that, along with Sable evading the man she'd been sold to in the beginning of the book. I wasn't as into the romance in this one, mostly because Raimond had to grow on me. In the end, though, I liked them as a couple.
I'll definitely be back for more Beverly Jenkins. I'm not sure where I'll continue yet, but I know that I will. I love how well she combines actual history with characters I can believe in. I had a bit of a problem with some parts of the book where there was a lot of historical detail, but I do like it. Besides, it was a Civil War-era historical, and I usually don't go for those. I do recommend this book, with all that said. It had an interesting plot of Sable becoming free, and the romance grew to be one I liked. If any of this sounds good to you, definitely check this out. There was a great element of family, a bit of tension with the war, and of course, the romance.
So I did. And I liked it. Sable made for a strong and determined heroine, whereas Raimond was arrogant, but really nice once he got over himself. This novel really highlighted slavery, as Sable was a slave. It also took place during the Civil War, so of course there was tension from that, along with Sable evading the man she'd been sold to in the beginning of the book. I wasn't as into the romance in this one, mostly because Raimond had to grow on me. In the end, though, I liked them as a couple.
I'll definitely be back for more Beverly Jenkins. I'm not sure where I'll continue yet, but I know that I will. I love how well she combines actual history with characters I can believe in. I had a bit of a problem with some parts of the book where there was a lot of historical detail, but I do like it. Besides, it was a Civil War-era historical, and I usually don't go for those. I do recommend this book, with all that said. It had an interesting plot of Sable becoming free, and the romance grew to be one I liked. If any of this sounds good to you, definitely check this out. There was a great element of family, a bit of tension with the war, and of course, the romance.
January 5, 2018
Wow....this one was really good, especially because of The General....lol. Jenkins has yet 2 fail 2 amaze Mi with her str8 4ward style, historical knowledge and entertaining love stories.
Read
December 25, 2022Holding my review until the Harper Collins Union receives their fair contract.
September 6, 2022
Whew! What a book! This was the first of the Le Veq brothers books, a series I read completely out of order but it doesn't matter, and Raimond and Sable had the most epic romance. They met when he was a Union Major and she's a runaway slave in the midst of the Civil War, get separated through circumstances, and manage to find their way back to each other in post-Civil War New Orleans. It's such an action packed and thrilling book and the end of the book will have you on the absolute edge of your seat, waiting to see. how it all works out. Never fear, it's a Ms. Bev histrom so of course there is a happy ending and I loved seeing Raimond and Sable find their HEA.
Content Notes: violence, off page sexual assault in the past, arson, murder, off page death by suicide in the past, kidnapping;
Content Notes: violence, off page sexual assault in the past, arson, murder, off page death by suicide in the past, kidnapping;
December 14, 2025
I truly loved everything about this story ❤️. It really tugged at my emotions and had a little bit of everything to keep me engaged. There were never dull moments, and sometimes I found myself wishing I could jump in and offer some guidance. Other times, I felt so frustrated that I wanted to physically hurt some characters! Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and I especially appreciated all the fascinating historical facts sprinkled throughout. It made the experience even richer and more enjoyable.
May 28, 2022
One of my favorite historical romances from this author so far! I loved all the characters (except the villains and racists of course)! I always appreciate how this author brings in historical events and people, so you learn something next to steamy scenes. Definitely worth reading! 4.5 stars
February 18, 2025
This was not only a lovely romance (a little outdated in parts, but hey, it was the ‘90s), but had a lot of interesting history on the end of the Civil War. I enjoyed it and learned a lot!
July 9, 2024
Due to the high overall rating, I went into this with high expectations. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel very connected to the romance and just found this one to be okay.
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