What do you think?
Rate this book
The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir #3
One Kiss Alone
Ethan Penn-Leith is the most renowned poet of his day—his likeness so widely recognized, he is regularly accosted by adoring admirers. Everyone wants something from him—his time, words, charm, torn bits of his kilt . . . Everyone, that is, but Lady Allegra Gilbert.
Twin sister to the authoritarian Duke of Kendall, Lady Allegra fights for freedom from her brother’s iron-gripped control. She has a plan for her future, after all, one that does not involve her ducal twin. Ethan Penn-Leith with his knee-melting smiles and boyish charm is merely a pretty distraction along the path to independence.
The problem? Ethan and Lady Allegra once shared a life-altering kiss on a rugged mountain road in Italy when she was disguised as someone else entirely. Ever the poet, Ethan turned their romantic kiss into a scandalous, best-selling poem. Now, all of London is clamoring to know the identity of the poet’s unnamed lady.
If she wishes her freedom, Lady Allegra needs to keep her secrets, well . . . secret. Ethan wants nothing more than to uncover all of Allegra’s truths.
In between outrunning legions of Ethan’s admirers, becoming stranded in a seaside village, and journeying by ducal decree to rural Scotland, Ethan and Allegra struggle to decide what they each truly want. Or perhaps, in the end, Fate will turn on one kiss alone?
Twin sister to the authoritarian Duke of Kendall, Lady Allegra fights for freedom from her brother’s iron-gripped control. She has a plan for her future, after all, one that does not involve her ducal twin. Ethan Penn-Leith with his knee-melting smiles and boyish charm is merely a pretty distraction along the path to independence.
The problem? Ethan and Lady Allegra once shared a life-altering kiss on a rugged mountain road in Italy when she was disguised as someone else entirely. Ever the poet, Ethan turned their romantic kiss into a scandalous, best-selling poem. Now, all of London is clamoring to know the identity of the poet’s unnamed lady.
If she wishes her freedom, Lady Allegra needs to keep her secrets, well . . . secret. Ethan wants nothing more than to uncover all of Allegra’s truths.
In between outrunning legions of Ethan’s admirers, becoming stranded in a seaside village, and journeying by ducal decree to rural Scotland, Ethan and Allegra struggle to decide what they each truly want. Or perhaps, in the end, Fate will turn on one kiss alone?
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2023
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
January 29, 2024
"A kiss is a communion. An exchange of spirit right along with breath."
I'm a simple fan girl. I see a Nichole Van book, I read it, hyper obsess over every character and then mourn getting to the close.
One Kiss Alone is the love story of a highland poet and the lady he can't get out of his head
Something that I admire about Nichole's books and this one especially is that each of her characters feels like they have their own unique personality and backstories. Never do you feel like one is a cookie cutter of another, and never is one love story quite the same. One Kiss Alone examines a passionate kind of love, which is ultimately so fitting for two characters with large personalities.
I love the Scottish history and detail poured into this book. Having just visited I could clearly see the winding staircases, dark corridors and highland atmosphere. Allie and Ethan are both unforgettable characters battling for being truly seen in a world that would only have them for what they can provide.
The push and pull is delicious, the banter is quick, and the romance is added in heaping measure. I had a hard time putting this one down and really enjoyed the choices made when it came to plot and character development.
PICK THIS UP. (please start with book one because they are all truly some of my all time favorite historical romances) I don't fan girl this hard unless I mean it!
I'm a simple fan girl. I see a Nichole Van book, I read it, hyper obsess over every character and then mourn getting to the close.
One Kiss Alone is the love story of a highland poet and the lady he can't get out of his head
Something that I admire about Nichole's books and this one especially is that each of her characters feels like they have their own unique personality and backstories. Never do you feel like one is a cookie cutter of another, and never is one love story quite the same. One Kiss Alone examines a passionate kind of love, which is ultimately so fitting for two characters with large personalities.
I love the Scottish history and detail poured into this book. Having just visited I could clearly see the winding staircases, dark corridors and highland atmosphere. Allie and Ethan are both unforgettable characters battling for being truly seen in a world that would only have them for what they can provide.
The push and pull is delicious, the banter is quick, and the romance is added in heaping measure. I had a hard time putting this one down and really enjoyed the choices made when it came to plot and character development.
PICK THIS UP. (please start with book one because they are all truly some of my all time favorite historical romances) I don't fan girl this hard unless I mean it!
March 14, 2024
Ethan has been betrayed in the previous book so I’m glad that his book was better than Malcolm’s, ha!
Allie is held captive by the Duke of Kendall, her autocratic twin brother, who is trying to marry her off to an elderly lord. Ethan is a Highland poet and a celebrity, but his father was a mere farmer, so they both know that Kendall would never agree for them to marry. In fact he prohibits them to even talk. The problem is, they can’t stay away from each other.
This is a beautiful, reverse grumpy-sunshine with an absolutely adorable cinnamon roll hero and a plucky heroine. There’s adventure, angst, banter and engrossing family drama, but no spice!
I highly recommend reading this series after the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan.
——-
I don’t know what I enjoyed more, Allie and Ethan or Allie and Tristan. I might write a review later but now I desperately need Tristan’s book.
Allie is held captive by the Duke of Kendall, her autocratic twin brother, who is trying to marry her off to an elderly lord. Ethan is a Highland poet and a celebrity, but his father was a mere farmer, so they both know that Kendall would never agree for them to marry. In fact he prohibits them to even talk. The problem is, they can’t stay away from each other.
This is a beautiful, reverse grumpy-sunshine with an absolutely adorable cinnamon roll hero and a plucky heroine. There’s adventure, angst, banter and engrossing family drama, but no spice!
I highly recommend reading this series after the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan.
——-
I don’t know what I enjoyed more, Allie and Ethan or Allie and Tristan. I might write a review later but now I desperately need Tristan’s book.
October 1, 2023
Since the first two books took over my life and left me in a stoic hero/angst-adled haze, this was a nice change in the series with our shield-your-eyes sunshiny Scot and my first laser-focused, fierce heroine by Ms. Van. And it still gave the utterly well constructed characterization depth and down-to-their-core connection she wields so well.
I’ll come back to all the good stuff, but, full disclosure, I did not ravenously devour this one like its predecessors, and, after such an epic opening, I was mostly reserving judgement/grumbling til halfway. It seems I’m not much into celebrity or forbidden romance set-up no matter the century. I have little patience for the travails of fame and the illicit “Let’s make the most of the present and let it unavoidably hurt like blazes later.” The progression felt a bit disjointed at times and since heroine could not care less about the threats, neither did I, which, even with Ethan’s charisma burning with the fire of a thousand suns, made the unputdownable factor drop. But THEN. It was as if I could hear the author rebuking “Will you quit your subjective bellyaching?! I’m working on it. This FMC is a tough nut to crack.” The forced-to-a-borderline-nonsensical-degree proximity started sprinkling in such fabulous microtropes and building up to soul-baring heart to hearts and endearingly heart-clenching revelations. The tension kicked up to the point where I was pulse-pumpingly like “Kissing Only, right?…right?!…whew”. She finally got me all in with that third act, and I swooned all the way home. Och, can she write a resolution. It made me feel so validated in why I read HEAs *contented sigh*
In the end, my two main desires for the younger Penn-Leith’s HEA were resoundingly fulfilled:
1. Peel back all the layers of the Highland Poet and discover new depths.
2. Have Lady Allegra devastate him down a peg or two and wipe that Flynn Ryder smolder right off his too-handsome face.
Add to this that Allie’s character arc journey was such a sight to see. Not even 30 years old and having lived so many lives, each more cruel and lonely, the themes of forgiveness, giving in to trust, the yearning for belonging and true freedom were so, so wonderfully well done. Included is the most achy estranged sibling second chance *non-emotional reader decidedly touched* I am beyond ready for Kendall’s further dismantling and the sallivating impatience for his book is my penance for the aforementioned griping with this one. Such a fabulous series.
P.S. Do not miss the author notes and book discussion questions!
P.S.S. There must be some sort of official recognition for an author that can weave a romance like this AND design that breath-taking cover herself. I could never tire of looking at it.
Content notes: Kissing only, some compromising situations. Mention of toxic parent, on page estranged sibling relationship, mentions of grief trauma.
I’ll come back to all the good stuff, but, full disclosure, I did not ravenously devour this one like its predecessors, and, after such an epic opening, I was mostly reserving judgement/grumbling til halfway. It seems I’m not much into celebrity or forbidden romance set-up no matter the century. I have little patience for the travails of fame and the illicit “Let’s make the most of the present and let it unavoidably hurt like blazes later.” The progression felt a bit disjointed at times and since heroine could not care less about the threats, neither did I, which, even with Ethan’s charisma burning with the fire of a thousand suns, made the unputdownable factor drop. But THEN. It was as if I could hear the author rebuking “Will you quit your subjective bellyaching?! I’m working on it. This FMC is a tough nut to crack.” The forced-to-a-borderline-nonsensical-degree proximity started sprinkling in such fabulous microtropes and building up to soul-baring heart to hearts and endearingly heart-clenching revelations. The tension kicked up to the point where I was pulse-pumpingly like “Kissing Only, right?…right?!…whew”. She finally got me all in with that third act, and I swooned all the way home. Och, can she write a resolution. It made me feel so validated in why I read HEAs *contented sigh*
In the end, my two main desires for the younger Penn-Leith’s HEA were resoundingly fulfilled:
1. Peel back all the layers of the Highland Poet and discover new depths.
2. Have Lady Allegra devastate him down a peg or two and wipe that Flynn Ryder smolder right off his too-handsome face.
Add to this that Allie’s character arc journey was such a sight to see. Not even 30 years old and having lived so many lives, each more cruel and lonely, the themes of forgiveness, giving in to trust, the yearning for belonging and true freedom were so, so wonderfully well done. Included is the most achy estranged sibling second chance *non-emotional reader decidedly touched* I am beyond ready for Kendall’s further dismantling and the sallivating impatience for his book is my penance for the aforementioned griping with this one. Such a fabulous series.
P.S. Do not miss the author notes and book discussion questions!
P.S.S. There must be some sort of official recognition for an author that can weave a romance like this AND design that breath-taking cover herself. I could never tire of looking at it.
Content notes: Kissing only, some compromising situations. Mention of toxic parent, on page estranged sibling relationship, mentions of grief trauma.
October 11, 2023
I could applaud the romance all day, but simply put, its wonderful. This is closed door, but my spicey pepper ladies should enjoy it. It still gives all the tension, angst and attraction.
⚘️The pace is on point, the Scottish accent is perfectly executed in the writing, (as always with Nichole) the characters are well rounded and have depth, and the plot is unique which is a feat for this genre, because quite honestly, most are just basic. This is also a book you can binge in a couple days. Perfect.
⚘️If you're looking for a Victorian romance with a Scottish flare, start this series. I promise, your romantic heart will thank you.
⚘️The pace is on point, the Scottish accent is perfectly executed in the writing, (as always with Nichole) the characters are well rounded and have depth, and the plot is unique which is a feat for this genre, because quite honestly, most are just basic. This is also a book you can binge in a couple days. Perfect.
⚘️If you're looking for a Victorian romance with a Scottish flare, start this series. I promise, your romantic heart will thank you.
July 10, 2023
I'm convinced Nichole Van can do no wrong. Each one of her books is incredibly romantic but also deeply personal with her characters' growth. With each book I finish feeling incredibly satisfied and delighted. One Kiss Alone was no different!
The romance is absolutely adorable and gutting at the same time. I loved Ethan's Golden Retriever energy, but also his depth and kindness. He pairs perfectly with Allie, who has a dark past and uncertain future. I loved seeing their journey through enemies to friends to lovers. Their banter was fantastic.
What I also love about Nichole Van's books is that the plot is always original and fresh, leaving me to devour these books in one day. From the first page I was drawn in with the highway robbery, and the plot only thickened as the story went on. I'm always surprised at how well the characters communicate (miscommunication in regency is the worst, so I'm incredibly happy that this doesn't have a place in Van's books), and the relationships always seem real and genuine.
I will forever be a Nichole Van fan. She writes such atmospheric, heartfelt books that transport me right into Scotland and tug at my heartstrings with thrilling, delightful romance. She's incredible!
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!
Trigger/Content Warnings: robbery, mild violence, past recounting of prostitution and child abuse, drugging & kidnapping, gun violence, kisses
The romance is absolutely adorable and gutting at the same time. I loved Ethan's Golden Retriever energy, but also his depth and kindness. He pairs perfectly with Allie, who has a dark past and uncertain future. I loved seeing their journey through enemies to friends to lovers. Their banter was fantastic.
What I also love about Nichole Van's books is that the plot is always original and fresh, leaving me to devour these books in one day. From the first page I was drawn in with the highway robbery, and the plot only thickened as the story went on. I'm always surprised at how well the characters communicate (miscommunication in regency is the worst, so I'm incredibly happy that this doesn't have a place in Van's books), and the relationships always seem real and genuine.
I will forever be a Nichole Van fan. She writes such atmospheric, heartfelt books that transport me right into Scotland and tug at my heartstrings with thrilling, delightful romance. She's incredible!
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!
Trigger/Content Warnings: robbery, mild violence, past recounting of prostitution and child abuse, drugging & kidnapping, gun violence, kisses
May 5, 2024
A really great set up between Ethan, the famous Highland poet, and a mysterious and beautiful Italian lady.
I loved the complexity in the heroine's backstory, her working through her trust issues, and Ethan's attitude of never giving up on a chance for love.
I loved the complexity in the heroine's backstory, her working through her trust issues, and Ethan's attitude of never giving up on a chance for love.
August 24, 2023
Nichole Van is so good at historical romance that pulls you in and doesn't let go until the very end. Fantastic read.
October 10, 2023
All. The. Feels. There is so much going on in this book! We got to know Ethan a bit superficially in the previous book, from Malcom and Viola's perspective. So it was wonderful to peel back the layers and see what was beneath the charming poet who took a little too much inspiration from his brother. I just loved his optimism and humor! Even when frustrated, in danger, or feeling pinned down by others' expectations, he has a quality about him where he just keeps trying and seeking solutions. His first meeting with Allegra was memorable of course, but the surprise was discovering who she really is. What a life she's led! No wonder she feels trapped by her brother. I think the sense of losing his true self to become like their domineering late father is what she grieves most of all. Ethan and Allie's serendipitous reunion in London leads to deepening their relationship (such amazing chemistry!), but so many obstacles are before them. The pace of the book is swift as they navigate society and familial pressures amidst danger and suspense, and I couldn't put the book down as I held out hope that they would be able to be fully open with each other and find their way to happiness together. I'm so excited that the next book will feature Allie's brother, the Duke of Kendall.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
July 24, 2023
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
IMMACULATE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Y’all. Y’ALL. THIS BOOK WAS PERFECT. I’ve got no notes. I was utterly obsessed with every single page and every single interaction between Ethan and Allie. And I can’t go any further without mentioning how on fire those kissing scenes were. I am still a hot puddle of a mess over here thinking about them. YAY FOR KISSING BOOKS.
The banter between Ethan and Allie was amazing. I laughed, smiled like a fool and was utterly drawn in. I loved how they both worked at opening up to one another and leaning on each other with their current grievances. It was friends to lovers (with an obvious note of, we’ll never be friends because we’re too busy falling in love). I highlighted and marked the heck out of my copy and there’s no way I could narrow down a favorite part. Every single moment is needed. This plot and general story line was fresh in this genre and I adored the way it played out. A little bit of action, a whole lot of forgiveness and a magnificent love story.
Side-ish note: I must have my hands on the next book ASAP. The redemption arc is one of my favorites.
READ THIS SERIES. YOU WILL LOVE IT.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low – moderate
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of loss of parents (off-page), gun violence, robbery, strained sibling relationship
IMMACULATE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Y’all. Y’ALL. THIS BOOK WAS PERFECT. I’ve got no notes. I was utterly obsessed with every single page and every single interaction between Ethan and Allie. And I can’t go any further without mentioning how on fire those kissing scenes were. I am still a hot puddle of a mess over here thinking about them. YAY FOR KISSING BOOKS.
The banter between Ethan and Allie was amazing. I laughed, smiled like a fool and was utterly drawn in. I loved how they both worked at opening up to one another and leaning on each other with their current grievances. It was friends to lovers (with an obvious note of, we’ll never be friends because we’re too busy falling in love). I highlighted and marked the heck out of my copy and there’s no way I could narrow down a favorite part. Every single moment is needed. This plot and general story line was fresh in this genre and I adored the way it played out. A little bit of action, a whole lot of forgiveness and a magnificent love story.
Side-ish note: I must have my hands on the next book ASAP. The redemption arc is one of my favorites.
READ THIS SERIES. YOU WILL LOVE IT.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low – moderate
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of loss of parents (off-page), gun violence, robbery, strained sibling relationship
September 17, 2023
Love, love, love.♡♡♡ RTC!
November 8, 2023
“Be warned, lass, if I kiss ye at that moment, I’ll be kissing ye for keeps.”
FULL. ON. SWOON.
Ethan Penn-Leith, you sure surprised me with all your hot Scot behavior and poetic seduction. Nichole Van is a new favorite author that I simply cannot get enough of. Each book I read gets better and better.
FULL. ON. SWOON.
Ethan Penn-Leith, you sure surprised me with all your hot Scot behavior and poetic seduction. Nichole Van is a new favorite author that I simply cannot get enough of. Each book I read gets better and better.
February 7, 2024
Nichole Van is a master of her craft. The way she is able to weave a tale and include so many amazing elements is otherworldly! Truly, incredible.
I've been dying for Ethan's book since book 2. If your heart didn't go out to him, then you have no heart at all!! You could tell he was going to be a crowd pleaser, a romancer and a performer (which he totally is and Nichole wrote him SO well and SO true to his character), but what I didn't see coming was how much heart and soul was behind his artistic persona.
'Some days, Ethan felt as though he would give up all his successes to find one person who wished nothing from him other than his own company.'
There is SO MUCH MORE to Ethan Penn-Leith than I think readers realized and Nichole Van came in and did what she does best...she gave us someone worth cheering for and someone worth inspiring not only to the characters in the book, but the reader as well.
"I don't know if I am encouraged or disheartened to learn that all your shiny positivity actually originate in loneliness and terror," Allie said.
"Most optimistic cheerfulness does, ye know. Those who are the sunniest have generally suffered the worst storms of life."
"That is a profoundly sad yet beautiful thought, Ethan. Have you considered becoming a poet?"
He laughed. "I just might yet."
And Ethan's smile. You know the one... the Swooner!!! Best character trait EVER WRITTEN!!
EVER!
"Does that devastating smile of yours ever cease?"
He grinned even wider. "The Swooner, ye mean?"
Move older smolder... there is a new smile in town and we all want The Swooner!
Allie. She is quite the complex character. She is a product of her growing up years and has become a little rough around the edges. She is a warrior. She fights for survival, is a realist and trusts no one. No one has ever given her a reason to trust them and with that she has become what she needs to in order to protect herself and provide for herself.
'Life, she knew, was better unencumbered--free of entanglements that inevitably ended in disappointment and hurt and betrayal.'
She is fiery and passionate and its quite easy to see she is the perfect match for Ethan and deep down maybe knows that and wants nothing to do with him...after she steals a kiss or two ha ha.
'"Friends don't flirt with friends, remember?"
"Che peccato," he murmured, gaze dropping to her mouth and making her lips tingle. "I thought we had decided that flirting was acceptable."
And to think...she had kissed that mouth. Twice, in fact.'
The banter and charisma in this book is one of my all-time favorites. SO WELL DONE!
Winking at her, he smoothed a hand down his waistcoat. "A braw Scot can be hard for the lasses tae resist."
The suspense...goodness, gracious it kept those pages turning!
The romance- a little more heated than her other books (nothing explicit), but if you want a romance this book will give you that and then some.
The setting- Italy, England and Scotland? Yes, yes and YES, PLEASE!!!
I am really hoping we get one more book in this series. Read this book and tell me there isn't ONE MORE PERSON you're dying to get a HEA for!!!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: moderate amount of Scottish/English bible swears (more in the first half than second half), recounts of difficult growing up years (physical/verbal abuse from parent to child, mention of bigamy, abandonment, loss of loved ones, brief mention of sexual intimacy for pay-no details), thievery and robbing, blackmail, physical awareness of characters mentioned, innuendo, one scene of a married couple in bed - no details, not explicit, although intimacy seems implied, more than a wee bit of charm and charisma, a swooning smile, kisses, hope, and a theme of love wins all.
I've been dying for Ethan's book since book 2. If your heart didn't go out to him, then you have no heart at all!! You could tell he was going to be a crowd pleaser, a romancer and a performer (which he totally is and Nichole wrote him SO well and SO true to his character), but what I didn't see coming was how much heart and soul was behind his artistic persona.
'Some days, Ethan felt as though he would give up all his successes to find one person who wished nothing from him other than his own company.'
There is SO MUCH MORE to Ethan Penn-Leith than I think readers realized and Nichole Van came in and did what she does best...she gave us someone worth cheering for and someone worth inspiring not only to the characters in the book, but the reader as well.
"I don't know if I am encouraged or disheartened to learn that all your shiny positivity actually originate in loneliness and terror," Allie said.
"Most optimistic cheerfulness does, ye know. Those who are the sunniest have generally suffered the worst storms of life."
"That is a profoundly sad yet beautiful thought, Ethan. Have you considered becoming a poet?"
He laughed. "I just might yet."
And Ethan's smile. You know the one... the Swooner!!! Best character trait EVER WRITTEN!!
EVER!
"Does that devastating smile of yours ever cease?"
He grinned even wider. "The Swooner, ye mean?"
Move older smolder... there is a new smile in town and we all want The Swooner!
Allie. She is quite the complex character. She is a product of her growing up years and has become a little rough around the edges. She is a warrior. She fights for survival, is a realist and trusts no one. No one has ever given her a reason to trust them and with that she has become what she needs to in order to protect herself and provide for herself.
'Life, she knew, was better unencumbered--free of entanglements that inevitably ended in disappointment and hurt and betrayal.'
She is fiery and passionate and its quite easy to see she is the perfect match for Ethan and deep down maybe knows that and wants nothing to do with him...after she steals a kiss or two ha ha.
'"Friends don't flirt with friends, remember?"
"Che peccato," he murmured, gaze dropping to her mouth and making her lips tingle. "I thought we had decided that flirting was acceptable."
And to think...she had kissed that mouth. Twice, in fact.'
The banter and charisma in this book is one of my all-time favorites. SO WELL DONE!
Winking at her, he smoothed a hand down his waistcoat. "A braw Scot can be hard for the lasses tae resist."
The suspense...goodness, gracious it kept those pages turning!
The romance- a little more heated than her other books (nothing explicit), but if you want a romance this book will give you that and then some.
The setting- Italy, England and Scotland? Yes, yes and YES, PLEASE!!!
I am really hoping we get one more book in this series. Read this book and tell me there isn't ONE MORE PERSON you're dying to get a HEA for!!!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: moderate amount of Scottish/English bible swears (more in the first half than second half), recounts of difficult growing up years (physical/verbal abuse from parent to child, mention of bigamy, abandonment, loss of loved ones, brief mention of sexual intimacy for pay-no details), thievery and robbing, blackmail, physical awareness of characters mentioned, innuendo, one scene of a married couple in bed - no details, not explicit, although intimacy seems implied, more than a wee bit of charm and charisma, a swooning smile, kisses, hope, and a theme of love wins all.
July 9, 2023
A new favorite from an all time favorite author. Full review to come when I stop swooning!
August 7, 2023
You know when you open a new book and realize it will be perfect? Yes.
If there were a prize for the best kiss scene in a book, this one would definitely win.
The problem? Ethan and Lady Allegra once shared a life-altering kiss on a rugged mountain road in Italy when she was disguised as someone else entirely. Ever the poet, Ethan turned their romantic kiss into a scandalous, best-selling poem. Now, all of London is clamoring to know the identity of the poet's unnamed lady.
Lady Allegra fights for freedom from her brother's iron-gripped control. She has a plan for her future, after all, one that does not involve her ducal twin. If she wishes her freedom, Lady Allegra needs to keep her secrets, well . . . secret. Ethan wants nothing more than to uncover all of Allegra's truths.
This book was pure bliss loved the writing, it flowed really well. The book is written so captivatingly that it draws readers in, allowing them to lose themselves in the story and forget that they are even reading. It's akin to reading Ethan Poetric.--contains endearing characters, dashing heroes, humorous and quick-witted dialogue, a forbidden romance, and arching romantic scenes.
“Well, ye clearly have never been friends with the right gentleman then. I couldn’t stop flirting with your fair self even if I tried.”
Content: closed-door romance, kissing only, and nothing further.
If there were a prize for the best kiss scene in a book, this one would definitely win.
The problem? Ethan and Lady Allegra once shared a life-altering kiss on a rugged mountain road in Italy when she was disguised as someone else entirely. Ever the poet, Ethan turned their romantic kiss into a scandalous, best-selling poem. Now, all of London is clamoring to know the identity of the poet's unnamed lady.
Lady Allegra fights for freedom from her brother's iron-gripped control. She has a plan for her future, after all, one that does not involve her ducal twin. If she wishes her freedom, Lady Allegra needs to keep her secrets, well . . . secret. Ethan wants nothing more than to uncover all of Allegra's truths.
This book was pure bliss loved the writing, it flowed really well. The book is written so captivatingly that it draws readers in, allowing them to lose themselves in the story and forget that they are even reading. It's akin to reading Ethan Poetric.--contains endearing characters, dashing heroes, humorous and quick-witted dialogue, a forbidden romance, and arching romantic scenes.
“Well, ye clearly have never been friends with the right gentleman then. I couldn’t stop flirting with your fair self even if I tried.”
Content: closed-door romance, kissing only, and nothing further.
May 4, 2024
One Kiss Alone starts with a bang! After the first chapter, I asked myself how the rest of the story could live up to it? Oh, my friends, it lived up to it!
Allie is a headstrong woman who knows her mind. She sees the world for what it is and understands how to plan and navigate within it to get what she wants out of it. Don’t be fooled, she works alone. No one is worth trusting. Trust opens one up to betrayal.
Ethan is a Scottish poet who is England’s sweetheart. He is constantly fulfilling requests for more poems, more recitations, more of himself. His words express the emotions that so many feel, but cannot explain: despair, loss, belonging. Even love.
“A kiss is a communion. An exchange of spirit right along with breath.”
When running away from the world, Ethan has a chance encounter that changes the trajectory of his career. And his life.
“This woman…beautiful, flirtatious, and educated? Bloody hell.”
Read this book if you like:
💋 Action packed stories
💋 Romance
💋 Romantic Gestures
💋 Poetry
💋 Strong Leading Ladies
💋 Head vs Heart
💋 Searching for Freedom
💋 Taking Risks
💋 Forbidden Love
💋 Kisses that Make You Swoon
💋 Mutli-Country Settings
💋 Dual POV
Content/Triggers: The best meet cute I’ve read, forbidden love, references to prostitution, memories of seeing unhealthy relationships, very Swoony kisses, and a love story for the ages!
Thank you to the author of the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Allie is a headstrong woman who knows her mind. She sees the world for what it is and understands how to plan and navigate within it to get what she wants out of it. Don’t be fooled, she works alone. No one is worth trusting. Trust opens one up to betrayal.
Ethan is a Scottish poet who is England’s sweetheart. He is constantly fulfilling requests for more poems, more recitations, more of himself. His words express the emotions that so many feel, but cannot explain: despair, loss, belonging. Even love.
“A kiss is a communion. An exchange of spirit right along with breath.”
When running away from the world, Ethan has a chance encounter that changes the trajectory of his career. And his life.
“This woman…beautiful, flirtatious, and educated? Bloody hell.”
Read this book if you like:
💋 Action packed stories
💋 Romance
💋 Romantic Gestures
💋 Poetry
💋 Strong Leading Ladies
💋 Head vs Heart
💋 Searching for Freedom
💋 Taking Risks
💋 Forbidden Love
💋 Kisses that Make You Swoon
💋 Mutli-Country Settings
💋 Dual POV
Content/Triggers: The best meet cute I’ve read, forbidden love, references to prostitution, memories of seeing unhealthy relationships, very Swoony kisses, and a love story for the ages!
Thank you to the author of the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2024
Nichole Van is another auto read author for me. Every time I read one of her books, I say it’s my new favorite. Then she goes and writes a new book, and I become completely obsessed with it. It’s a vicious cycle that I’m okay repeating.
This book starts with a bang. I absolutely loved the introduction to both main characters. It’s was so fun and exciting. I love Ethan and his thoughtful, yet charismatic personality. Allie is passionate, head strong and a rebel. She refuses to conform to the ways of society and the demands of her brother, the Duke of Kendall. I loved the character growth for both Allie and Ethan. Now on to the romance. Ethan and Allie have amazing chemistry from the get-go. Their banter is witty and flirtatious. The kiss scenes were super steamy but not spicy. The fishing scene was probably my favorite. I just loved so much about this book.
This can be read as a stand alone, but you simply must read books 1 and 2. I demand it. 😁
📖
🔥steamy kisses
🤬 very light language, some Scottish swearing
This book starts with a bang. I absolutely loved the introduction to both main characters. It’s was so fun and exciting. I love Ethan and his thoughtful, yet charismatic personality. Allie is passionate, head strong and a rebel. She refuses to conform to the ways of society and the demands of her brother, the Duke of Kendall. I loved the character growth for both Allie and Ethan. Now on to the romance. Ethan and Allie have amazing chemistry from the get-go. Their banter is witty and flirtatious. The kiss scenes were super steamy but not spicy. The fishing scene was probably my favorite. I just loved so much about this book.
This can be read as a stand alone, but you simply must read books 1 and 2. I demand it. 😁
📖
🔥steamy kisses
🤬 very light language, some Scottish swearing
July 17, 2023
I received a free e-copy of this book for review.
Nichole Van has such a skill for crafting achy and beautiful love stories. I loved being back with familiar characters and settings and delving more into who Ethan is beyond what we saw in earlier books. Both main characters in this story feel trapped and powerless in some way and it was beautiful to watch them find true freedom. Especially to see someone who has felt so broken and alone learn to trust again and be vulnerable. On top of the swoony romance there is complex sibling dynamics, a woman fighting to carve her own way in a “man’s world”, and an exploration of the complicated nature of fame.
Trigger/content warnings: references to past domestic abuse. Steam level is passionate kissing.
Nichole Van has such a skill for crafting achy and beautiful love stories. I loved being back with familiar characters and settings and delving more into who Ethan is beyond what we saw in earlier books. Both main characters in this story feel trapped and powerless in some way and it was beautiful to watch them find true freedom. Especially to see someone who has felt so broken and alone learn to trust again and be vulnerable. On top of the swoony romance there is complex sibling dynamics, a woman fighting to carve her own way in a “man’s world”, and an exploration of the complicated nature of fame.
Trigger/content warnings: references to past domestic abuse. Steam level is passionate kissing.
August 2, 2023
This series is pure delight and had me smiling on almost every page, so what about that doesn't deserve all the stars!?! Just pure escapism and pure enjoyment.
This *might* be my favorite installment yet, but that's a tall order as the first 2 books were wonderful also, but I have to say, there is just something about the enigmatic, rakish, but also deep-thinking and contemplative Ethan Penn-Leith, or as the masses call him, the Highland Poet. He and Allegra's meet-cute, if we can call a highway robbery a meet-cute, was nothing short of a romp and highly-original for this historical romance. And he and Allie's romance? ... goodness, gracious! Swoon-worthy, sensual, tension-filled, and sweet.
Loved the "plus" elements in this story - the complicated family dynamics, forbidden romance, the need to practice forgiveness and giving of second (and third and fourth) chances, and finally, how to find belonging with another and not what you *thought* you wanted, or needed. This was wholly heartwarming and wholly enjoyable. I would love to escape to the Scottish Highlands with the Penn-Leiths anytime!
Actual rating, 4.5 stars
This *might* be my favorite installment yet, but that's a tall order as the first 2 books were wonderful also, but I have to say, there is just something about the enigmatic, rakish, but also deep-thinking and contemplative Ethan Penn-Leith, or as the masses call him, the Highland Poet. He and Allegra's meet-cute, if we can call a highway robbery a meet-cute, was nothing short of a romp and highly-original for this historical romance. And he and Allie's romance? ... goodness, gracious! Swoon-worthy, sensual, tension-filled, and sweet.
Loved the "plus" elements in this story - the complicated family dynamics, forbidden romance, the need to practice forgiveness and giving of second (and third and fourth) chances, and finally, how to find belonging with another and not what you *thought* you wanted, or needed. This was wholly heartwarming and wholly enjoyable. I would love to escape to the Scottish Highlands with the Penn-Leiths anytime!
Actual rating, 4.5 stars
July 8, 2023
My words will only pale in comparison to the Highland Poet and the genius that is Nichole Van. This story was breathtaking, thought provoking, and oh so swoony. The depth of the characters was so good and I loved seeing the growth of each person. Ethan charmed me and Allie was a firecracker. Their banter was the best I’ve ever read. Nichole proves once again that she is the queen of Scottish romance. I’m so grateful for the advanced copy.
CW: there is a bit of language and lots of kisses but nothing in detail.
CW: there is a bit of language and lots of kisses but nothing in detail.
July 29, 2023
So Nichole Van is one of my auto buy authors and so as soon as One Kiss Alone was released I had to read it ASAP! It did not disappoint! I read it way too fast and I'm thinking this may be one of my favorites of hers that she has written. Now I'm bummed I have to wait for book 4!
I love that Nichole weaves intricate stories that have depth, emotions, and such great characters. Plus they take place in Scotland...so yeah there is that!
I'm typically all about the grumpy guys, but Ethan Penn-Leith is just an amazing guy. He is upbeat a swooner and an outrageous flirt, but he also has such depth and a heart of gold. I love the banter between Ethan and Lady Allegra. I love that he falls first and that they are able to help each other learn how to trust and what it really means to be in love.
I love that Lady Allegra is intelligent, cautious, reserved, and yet so courageous. I loved watching Ethan break down her walls and see the real Allie.
I also love that we got to see little cameos from characters in not only previous books in this series but the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan as well. I just love the world that Nichole has created and that we get to continue to read about the characters we have all fallen in love with.
If you are looking for an amazing swoony love story with plenty of kisses, an intricate plot, and just an amazing book give this one a go! And you should totally start from the beginning of the series...or go way back to The Brotherhood of the Black Tartan series and start there...You truly cannot go wrong!
Physical Intimacy: Lvl 2 (see slide 3 to see what that means)
Mild swearing
Dual POV
I love that Nichole weaves intricate stories that have depth, emotions, and such great characters. Plus they take place in Scotland...so yeah there is that!
I'm typically all about the grumpy guys, but Ethan Penn-Leith is just an amazing guy. He is upbeat a swooner and an outrageous flirt, but he also has such depth and a heart of gold. I love the banter between Ethan and Lady Allegra. I love that he falls first and that they are able to help each other learn how to trust and what it really means to be in love.
I love that Lady Allegra is intelligent, cautious, reserved, and yet so courageous. I loved watching Ethan break down her walls and see the real Allie.
I also love that we got to see little cameos from characters in not only previous books in this series but the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan as well. I just love the world that Nichole has created and that we get to continue to read about the characters we have all fallen in love with.
If you are looking for an amazing swoony love story with plenty of kisses, an intricate plot, and just an amazing book give this one a go! And you should totally start from the beginning of the series...or go way back to The Brotherhood of the Black Tartan series and start there...You truly cannot go wrong!
Physical Intimacy: Lvl 2 (see slide 3 to see what that means)
Mild swearing
Dual POV
February 9, 2024
4.5 ⭐️! Anyone else STOKED for book 4?! This plunged me back in the wonderful world of Nichole Van and it’s always a treat to travel back to Thistle-Muir. Some of Ethan’s flirting was a little suggestive/physical and I had to skip ahead, and can’t say I’m a fan of the celebrity trope, but those two gripes aside… oh my heart that ending! Second chance for estranged siblings ❤️ I am most intrigued for the Duke of Kendall’s story.
Content: some innuendo, noticing each other physically, some compromising situations, biblical swears
Content: some innuendo, noticing each other physically, some compromising situations, biblical swears
July 24, 2023
From the very first fiery kiss, I was bewitched by this opposites attract couple.
Allegra (Allie) is a very passionate and headstrong woman, which complements Ethan's poetic and calm soul. The instant attraction is fierce, forbidden, and slightly flawed, and the way Van writes is utter perfection. The words she uses sing a song to my heart and create vivid imagery in my mind. The characters are lifted off the pages and become tangible or maybe I'm just thrown into the depths of book, but either way, I can't get enough of this series.
Ethan's lyrical prose has creative a massive following with women swooning all around and Allie isn't immune to his unintentional charms, even though any type of contact with him is banned by her twin brother. The give and take of this delightful romance is spellbinding and the connection magical. The settings in Italy, England, and Scotland were breathtaking.
There's so much more to this story than flirtatious banter and wit. There are hard things to discover and process, along with a few plot twists, but Van touches on just the right balance of everything, making this an unforgettable story.
Content: off screen/past child abuse; mild+ romance (steamy kisses, but closed door); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Allegra (Allie) is a very passionate and headstrong woman, which complements Ethan's poetic and calm soul. The instant attraction is fierce, forbidden, and slightly flawed, and the way Van writes is utter perfection. The words she uses sing a song to my heart and create vivid imagery in my mind. The characters are lifted off the pages and become tangible or maybe I'm just thrown into the depths of book, but either way, I can't get enough of this series.
Ethan's lyrical prose has creative a massive following with women swooning all around and Allie isn't immune to his unintentional charms, even though any type of contact with him is banned by her twin brother. The give and take of this delightful romance is spellbinding and the connection magical. The settings in Italy, England, and Scotland were breathtaking.
There's so much more to this story than flirtatious banter and wit. There are hard things to discover and process, along with a few plot twists, but Van touches on just the right balance of everything, making this an unforgettable story.
Content: off screen/past child abuse; mild+ romance (steamy kisses, but closed door); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 29, 2023
Nov 2023: Listened to the audiobook and I am 🫠🫠🫠
One Kiss Alone is quite possibly my favorite Nichole Van book yet! Seriously, how does each book get better than the one before? I loved each of the characters and seeing their relationships develop. They really worked for that happy ending and their journeys gave me all the feels! 😍😄💔😭🥰 I'm not a huge poetry fan, but I adored all of the beautiful poetry that was included in the story. This book was a romantic trip to Scotland that I can't stop thinking about. (And especially, what will happen in Tristan's book?! 😍) I have read all of Nichole's books, but this was my first time listening to one. And let me just say, I might have to do that more often because it was so tantalizing to hear all of the swoony words Nichole writes spoken in a Scottish accent. Wow! Mhairi Morrison did a fantastic job as narrator. This book is a must-read/listen/however you can get your hands on it.
Aug 2023: Nichole Van writes incredibly swoony romance, and this book was no exception. I loved Ethan and Allie's relationship. I am dying to read the next book in the series.
One Kiss Alone is quite possibly my favorite Nichole Van book yet! Seriously, how does each book get better than the one before? I loved each of the characters and seeing their relationships develop. They really worked for that happy ending and their journeys gave me all the feels! 😍😄💔😭🥰 I'm not a huge poetry fan, but I adored all of the beautiful poetry that was included in the story. This book was a romantic trip to Scotland that I can't stop thinking about. (And especially, what will happen in Tristan's book?! 😍) I have read all of Nichole's books, but this was my first time listening to one. And let me just say, I might have to do that more often because it was so tantalizing to hear all of the swoony words Nichole writes spoken in a Scottish accent. Wow! Mhairi Morrison did a fantastic job as narrator. This book is a must-read/listen/however you can get your hands on it.
Aug 2023: Nichole Van writes incredibly swoony romance, and this book was no exception. I loved Ethan and Allie's relationship. I am dying to read the next book in the series.
September 21, 2023
Lovely!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The chemistry between Ethan and Allie is off the charts. Such a lovely love story. I can always count on Ms Van’s books to be full of deep characters, engaging plots and swoony romance.
Content Rated PG+
Swoony romance, kissing. Very mild language. Mild violence - mention of past abuse, prostitution, mild fighting
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The chemistry between Ethan and Allie is off the charts. Such a lovely love story. I can always count on Ms Van’s books to be full of deep characters, engaging plots and swoony romance.
Content Rated PG+
Swoony romance, kissing. Very mild language. Mild violence - mention of past abuse, prostitution, mild fighting
May 1, 2024
4.5 Stars
Probably my favorite of the series. I feel like Ethan redeemed himself from his treatment of Viola in book 2. I adore that he still has a relationship with his family, he grew up a lot between book 2 and 3.
I enjoyed Allegra's antics to thwart her brother's attempts to control her (but is he really *that* bad?!). I could see this book play out like a movie in my mind, and it was great fun! I felt throughout the story there has to be more to Kendall, and I look forward to book 4 and finding out if I'm right.
Ethan and Allegra's friendship blossoms quickly into a romance, even though Lady Allegra tries to deny her feelings. It is adorable how Ethan kept putting himself out there to catch her eye, even when he knew he shouldn't.
This book is a "clean romance" but still brings the swoon! PG-13 rating, there is a lot of kissing and scandalous behavior, for the time period. ;)
There is some mild "bad language." If it were a TV show or movie, it would have a PG-13 rating. It is not consistently in the book, only sprinkled here and there, as exclamations of frustration, and the mildest of words, but it exists within this story.
Probably my favorite of the series. I feel like Ethan redeemed himself from his treatment of Viola in book 2. I adore that he still has a relationship with his family, he grew up a lot between book 2 and 3.
I enjoyed Allegra's antics to thwart her brother's attempts to control her (but is he really *that* bad?!). I could see this book play out like a movie in my mind, and it was great fun! I felt throughout the story there has to be more to Kendall, and I look forward to book 4 and finding out if I'm right.
Ethan and Allegra's friendship blossoms quickly into a romance, even though Lady Allegra tries to deny her feelings. It is adorable how Ethan kept putting himself out there to catch her eye, even when he knew he shouldn't.
This book is a "clean romance" but still brings the swoon! PG-13 rating, there is a lot of kissing and scandalous behavior, for the time period. ;)
There is some mild "bad language." If it were a TV show or movie, it would have a PG-13 rating. It is not consistently in the book, only sprinkled here and there, as exclamations of frustration, and the mildest of words, but it exists within this story.
August 28, 2024
If you want to read this series, it might be a good idea to read the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan series first, as some of the characters overlap. This series is the next generation (well, and also a family called the Penn-Leiths who are separate). I was getting confused because I've been reading books from both series at the same time. There are two Dukes of Kendall, a father and son, and I thought they were the same person for a while. Now I want to start over!The cool thing is that in the second series, we get to see how the couples from the first series are doing!
This book centers on Ethan Penn-Leith, who was my least favorite of the sons, but he is way more likeable in this book than I expected. I was also glad to see a softer side of Kendall/Tristan in this book. Looking forward to the next!! (In both series, actually)
This book centers on Ethan Penn-Leith, who was my least favorite of the sons, but he is way more likeable in this book than I expected. I was also glad to see a softer side of Kendall/Tristan in this book. Looking forward to the next!! (In both series, actually)
September 27, 2023
This story was so enjoyable to read and had me feeling so many emotions. I loved the writing and the story. There were such wonderful characters, a swoon-worthy romance, and enough depth to make the story completely fulfilling. Now I’m just sad I have to wait for the next book in the series.
August 24, 2023
I am Nichole’s biggest fan, I will read every book she writes, and all her books are terrific. She writes incredible storylines and amazing characters. With that being said, this book was really good. I just didn’t love it as much as I’d hope to. Maybe I was just in a funk and need to read it again. But in all honesty I think LP and ABOJ were just so unbelievably out-of-this-world outstanding, they just eclipsed OKA. I wanted Ethan to be more vulnerable. He had problems and lots of pressure and expectations thrust upon him. And with his personality he shrugged it off and was very easy going and jovial. Which is how a person like that would present themselves to hide their fears and insecurities. I just felt like he needed a breakthrough or a moment where we saw his weakness like we did with Fox and Malcolm. I still have high hopes for Tristan. I love a good grump/baddie redemption story.
July 13, 2023
Beautiful story about freedom and belonging, family and sacrifice. I have read all of Nichole Van's books and have really enjoyed all of them, though I do have my favorites. Each one shows great depth in each character as well as growth and change. This one is no exception with Ethan and Allie. Well written, touching, full of banter and chemistry, keeping it clean too, and just something you read quickly wanting to know how all the heartache is resolved only to finish, happy with it all but wanting to reread it just for the experience again. Definitely worth reading the book and the series. Enjoy.
August 1, 2023
10 stars! I love this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews