One Kiss Alone Review
Another wonderful read from Nichole Van! I loved everything about Allie and Ethan’s romance.
This is a secret identity, historical romance between Allegra (Allie) and Ethan.
I loved Allie’s character. The way she’s appalled by any emotional reaction Ethan pulls out of her is hilarious, and I could easily relate to how it threw her off from her previous notions of how untrustworthy people are. The way she uses sarcasm as a shield when she’s angry was so relatable, and I completely understood how she had no desire to feel hopeful about love, even when a part of her still yearns for exactly that. I love how she’s drawn to Ethan’s warm personality, and how quickly she recognizes that he understands her better than anyone else. I appreciated how at the same time, she battled with her cynical side, trying to feel nothing at all so no one could hurt her ever again, and telling herself to not trust anyone because it only leads to disappointment. Even when Ethan gives her every reason to believe he’s a genuinely good person, it’s still understandably difficult for her to accept that she can trust him when all she knows from people is that they’ll hurt you and leave you. Seeing her yearn for a life she doesn’t believe she can have broke my heart, and seeing her find her sense of belonging with Ethan and his family put it back together again.
I loved getting to know Ethan better in this book. I empathized with how he felt as though he had to make his family happy at the cost of his own happiness, and how lonely that can be on someone. It made me so happy when he saw those same struggles of loneliness with Allie when no one else did, or didn’t care that she was unhappy. I loved how he wanted her more than anything in the world, but didn’t confuse love with desire. He remains ever the gentleman, and is very clear with Allie that if he has her, he wants all of her: mind, body, and soul. He gives her the freedom to be herself and let down her guard, and makes it clear that he loves everything about her, even the things she’s been shamed for by her family. He’s so attuned to her, and wants nothing more than to provide her the love she’s been denied, regardless of how it may affect his own well-being. But he also respects her, and abides by her wishes, even when he doesn’t necessarily agree with them.
I loved this addition to the Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next💕
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Building on my initial thoughts about 'One Kiss Alone,' I just have to say how much Nichole Van truly excels at crafting historical romances that feel incredibly fresh and relevant, even within a period setting. What really struck me about Allie and Ethan's story, which is 'The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir, Book Three,' is how brilliantly the 'secret identity' trope was woven in. It wasn't just a plot device; it deeply informed their characters and the trust issues Allie grappled with. As someone who sometimes finds historical settings a bit daunting, Van’s writing makes it so accessible. She captures the essence of the era without letting historical details overshadow the emotional core of the story. I've found myself thinking about Allie's journey long after I finished reading it on my e-reader. Her initial reluctance to hope for love, born from past hurts, is something I think many of us can relate to. It’s that universal fear of vulnerability, beautifully explored within a historical context. Ethan's unwavering patience and understanding make him such a standout hero. He doesn't just fall for Allie; he sees her, truly understands her complexities and insecurities, which is what makes their connection so powerful and believable. It’s a testament to Van’s skill that these characters feel so real, almost like friends you're rooting for. For anyone who loves historical romance but perhaps hasn't dived into Nichole Van's work yet, 'One Kiss Alone' is an excellent starting point, though it's part of a series. While it certainly stands alone, knowing it's 'Book Three' in 'The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir' makes me even more excited to explore the other titles. Her ability to create intricate family dynamics and a rich world without overwhelming the reader is remarkable. I often read on Kindle Unlimited, and discovering authors like Nichole Van through it is such a treat. The convenience of having such a captivating story readily available makes the reading experience even better. What makes this book, and historical romance in general, so enduring is how it allows us to escape into a different time while still exploring timeless themes of love, trust, and self-acceptance. The 'secret identity' adds an extra layer of intrigue, keeping you guessing and highlighting the idea that true connection goes beyond superficial appearances or societal roles. It's not just about a grand ball or a dashing viscount; it's about two souls finding each other despite their pasts and the societal expectations placed upon them. I genuinely believe that if you enjoy a romance that offers both emotional depth and a touch of historical charm, you'll be completely swept away by 'One Kiss Alone.' It’s more than just a review; it’s a heartfelt recommendation from one book lover to another.
