Dr. Little Fenimore has produced an exceptional and timely rhetorical analysis of a significant political figure. She artfully and seamlessly weaves together the strands of politics, gender, race, and rhetoric to craft a complex portrait of Nikki Haley and her “lessons.” Nikki Haley's Lessons from the New South meticulously traces the rhetorical contours, history, and functions of the New South ideology through Governor Haley’s public discourse, and even locates the remnants of New South exceptionalism, unity of purpose, and progress in Haley’s recently launched presidential campaign. Dr. Little Fenimore’s clear and cogent writing style makes this book easily accessible to both undergraduate- and graduate-level students of rhetorical criticism, as well as enjoyable to a broader reading public.

Amy L. Heyse, California State University Long Beach

“This book presents a fascinating study of how former South Carolina governor and current presidential primary candidate Nikki Haley mobilizes the 'New South' as a rhetorical appeal in her political speeches. This book meticulously demonstrates the ways in which historical discourses tied to history, memory, race, and region continue to wield significant rhetorical power in contemporary politics. Given Haley’s current campaign for the Republican nomination and potential as a vice presidential candidate, it is especially timely.”

Patricia Davis, Northeastern University