One Kiss Alone by Nichole Van is a fabulous conclusion to what has been one of the best Historical Romance series I’ve ever read. This book is everything a fan of Historical Romances could ever want. There is a unique sense of adventure. We begin this story in Italy where an atypical stagecoach robbery occurs, our hero is utterly confounded by an unsolicited kiss, and then left stranded in the middle of nowhere. The opening scenes in this story drew me in from page one and never let go. The characters also drew me into this captivating storyline. I’ve been waiting for Ethan’s story since book one. He is quite the charmer, and so, so talented. But he also has a very sweet heart and that shines through in this story. Ethan is a good man. As a lauded poet, Ethan is drawn to details; and, boy, does he pay attention. I love this the most about his character. He sees all of Allie right from the start. He is drawn to her like a moth to flame — yes, because she is absolutely beautiful, but also because of her strength, her intelligence, her ability to survive, and for her sweet, broken heart. I love how he grows to love Allie. I love how he breaks down her walls and forces her to be friends with him, not because he has ulterior motives, but because she is so lonely and he see that. And, my, how Allie blossoms. At the start of this story, Allie is a traumatized, broken, and very lonely woman. She has built a wall of iron around her heart, and for good reason. I appreciate how at first she is leery of Ethan and the friendship he supposedly offers. But as they spend time together, and Ethan wheedles his way into her heart, Allie becomes a seriously fierce woman. She is like a Phoenix rising from the ashes. It is awesome and my favorite aspect to this story. In addition to adventure and excellent characters, I really loved the many themes discussed. My favorite topic is the notion of forgiveness. Allie, with Ethan’s help, realizes that she wants a very particular future — one that includes true love, loyalty, family, and belonging. Allie also comes to understand that in order to attain this very particular future she needs to forgive. What she concludes is that forgiveness is empowering. When you forgive, you set yourself free. Free from resentment, anger, and trauma. And then you can truly live a blessed, beautiful life. And that’s just what Allie and Ethen get!

One Kiss Alone is a beautiful Romance. It is an engaging adventure. And it is an endearing story of friendship, love, and forgiveness. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are a fan of outstanding Historical Romance, then you have to get a copy of this book ASAP!

I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on August 3, 2023, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.