A Heart Devoted

The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir #5

by Nichole Van

Living happily ever after should be easy. After all, Tristan and Isolde Gilbert, the new Duke and Duchess of Kendall, have overcome obstacles, confessed their love, married, and are eager to sail off into the sunset of their glorious future. But, of course, life rarely offers smooth sailing. After their honeymoon tour, an unexpected return to London sends the new couple reeling.

Tristan struggles to balance his new Isolde-loving self with his former role as the autocratic Duke of Kendall. Upstart relatives and scurrilous accusations complicate his efforts to find a purpose and settle into his altered standing within the ton. Worse, the still-scandalous Isolde—who never expected to be at the center of Polite Society—now finds she has to navigate meetings with the Queen, dodge vile rumors, and fend off the jealous attacks of other aristocratic ladies.

For Tristan and Isolde, falling in love was simple. But merging two disparate former lives into one proves more fraught. Can the newlyweds find a way to remain both true to themselves and one another in their new life together?

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Victorian, Fiction, Historical, Novella

212 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2025

Reviews

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven’t read Nichole Van’s the Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir series, I would examine your latent self-sabotaging streak. Every book in this series is a marvel of Victorian historical romance and an intravenous infusion of yearning and swoon. This review for book 4.5 is spoiler-free, but you need to fix that situation, if you haven’t read yet. If you have, then you know. You know—you understand the utter rejoicing.

From first I heard whispers that we would get more Tristan and Isolde, to laying disbelieving eyes on the glorious cover, to reverently clicking to open the epub, to finishing this story in a dreamy, contented haze, my overarching sentiment has been a blubbering “We are not worthy!” Like—my fellow Van Fans, what did we ever do to deserve such a dream-come-true extension of the never-the-same perfection that is A Heart Sufficient? I mean, I have my merits, but Tristan’s redemption and the blazing, aching romance with Isolde had already gone beyond what’s deserving. And, judging by the perma-hangover after Penn-Leiths 4, more than I could handle. And then Nichole Van was like “Hold my Scottish whiskey mocktail. There’s more.”

Well of course there’s more! Volumes could be written about this icy duke and his fiery duchess. Volumes upon volumes about how love can conquer all—even misguided ambitions, even a toxic childhood, even the Ton, even a disapproving monarch, even two left feet.

We know Ms. Van can write a masterful shorter format and fill it to overflowing with romanceswoondepthemotions. But with A Heart Devoted she takes a magnum opus and continues a love story and a growth arc, ties some knots and secures that happily ever after as steady as a Callanish stone. Among all the delicious internal wedded bliss, here we have questions answered *and how*. What does a solitary duke do after love replaces ruthless ambition? After his life’s design for aristocratic and political domination is stripped away, how does he find purpose besides holding back the urge to stock every one of his grandiose fireplaces with firewood? (Not that there are any complaints on that front.) How does an unconventional daughter of an earl step into her role as duchess if scandal follows her everywhere and she’d rather talk engineering than the latest embroidery pattern? But most of all, how does a couple whose souls were seared together on a castaway Hebrides island find their own rhythm among the restricting London upper-echelons? Ok, I lied, spoiler alert: they make it.

This brilliant sequel is the literal definition of “Everything you could want and more.” This is so generously fabulous. We are not worthy. *goes back to nursing a Tristan hangover*

All my gratitude to the author for an ARC!

Content notes: kissing only with several allusions to married intimacy. Some biblical swearing.

[Melanie (lemonyreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This must be read immediately after you finish A Heart Sufficient. It's a perfect addition to that book and beautifully satisfying. If you go into this with too much time in between, it will not be as impactful.

Now let's get to the good stuff.
With the mentality of jumping into A Heart Devoted right after A Heart Sufficient, this gives everything I wanted and more.

This book starts with Tristan and Isolde as a newly married couple and shows some of their struggles, tender moments and some funny interactions as well. You see more evidence of Tristan's character growth and Isolde's journey towards being accepted into society.

The conflict feels significantly lighter and easier, which is what you need after the intensity of the previous book.

The romantic moments with these adorable newlyweds were perfect. I would share a bunch of quotes, but I want you to discover them for yourself. The last Epilogue was wonderful and got me in all my feels.

Also consider that most authors don't take the time to give us extended content anywhere near this. We are blessed as readers to have such a beautiful extension to an already fantastic novel. We are spoiled and I'm not mad about it.

[Dab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could read a thousand books about Tristan😌. Why does this series have to end, give us more Nichole 😭

——


Finally reading this😌

——


Tristan and Isolde are getting a bonus novella ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ I need this book yesterday😭❤️

[Paris (parismaereads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Quick Takes:
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Language 🤐 mild
- Spice ❤️‍🔥 closed-door
- Content 🤔 toxic family relations

Just when you think the character development can’t arc any further… Nichole Van: “hold my tea” ☕️

Van truly spoilers her readers with this additional narrative of Tristan and Isolde’s story. If you thought the redemption arc was completed at the end of A Heart Sufficient, you are in for a *treat* with A Heart Devoted. Oh… and there’s an element of mystery?! Say less.

The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir series is a work of perfection, and one I will always recommend. If I must find any fault, it’s that the audio for this book is not currently available. I listened to and LOVED the audio for the first four books and read the entirety of A Heart Devoted with the narrators voice in my head. Again. It’s all perfection 👌🏼

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowza! If you adored Tristan & Isolde as much as I did in A Heart Sufficient, then you definitely need A Heart Devoted! I loved seeing the continuation of their story with all the romance, passion, wit, & Silver Fox goodness. As Tristan & Isolde are navigating their new roles as a couple, they face some daunting challenges & a mystery to solve.

When Queen Victoria summons them to London, Tristan & Isolde must put their lovely plans on hold & return. They arrive at their London home shocked to find Tristan’s detestable cousin & his wife installed there & his secretary missing. Tristan also finds himself having to host the upstart couple to protect Izzy’s status & reputation. But, where is his secretary, Ledger?

Isolde never wanted to be the center of Society, but falling in love with Tristan puts her right in the middle of it. Her unconventional education, previous scandals, & jealous peers make navigating this new position difficult. But, Izzy’s determined to do it even if her number one enemy is beneath her roof.

Ahhh, this story was impossible to put down! I relished reading every page. Tristan’s & Isolde’s relationship continues to grow & flourish & I loved seeing them as a united couple. As in the previous book, Tristan struggles between being the cold, austere Duke of Kendall & the loving, open Tristan. As he tries to find new purpose, I enjoyed seeing him become a bit of a detective & embrace his softer side. Tristan has a knack for solving mysteries & I’d absolutely love seeing his & Izzy’s story continue as a detective series!

Izzy’s just adorable & I really felt for her as she endures the cattiness of the ton. She wants so desperately to prove to Tristan she can handle things on her own & I loved the clever ways she & Tristan’s sister Lady Allegra outwit her nemesis.

The romance is absolutely delicious. While everything is kept firmly closed door, the tenderness, teasing, & sweetness is on display throughout. It was also so fun seeing characters from previous books.

Absolutely a must read!! Definitely recommend reading A Heart Sufficient before reading A Heart Devoted to avoid spoilers. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.

[Rachel Luke Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my heart. How will I ever get over this book and the entire world that Nichole Van has masterfully crafted.

Please do not read this book until you have read at least A Heart Sufficient. But do yourself a favor and start at the very beginning of the series.

These books will always have a special place in my heart and they are ones where I know I will be constantly thinking about them. There is such depth, emotion, growth, and poetry.

Team Tristan forever.

Physical Intimacy Level 3 (Fade to Black, Descriptive Kisses)
Mild Swearing

[mikaela (spinebreaker) · Rating 5 out of 5]

----first read thoughts
See below.


---pre-read thoughts:
i am going to LOSE MY EVER LOVING MIND i just got so emotional about this 😭

[Alix | IG: ThisBookishMom · Rating 5 out of 5]

TRISTAN + ISOLDE! ❤️

How I love them. 🥹 This novella picks up almost immediately after A Heart Sufficient and was just perfect all around. I loved seeing Tristan try to figure out how to be this new version of himself after being cold Kendall for so long, as well as Isolde finding her place as Duchess.

Content: closed door

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's better than an epilogue? An epilogue novella!!! The story of Tristan and Isolde continues as the unlikely lovers must return to London to prove they are alive, prevent the dukedom's next-in-line and his scheming wife from staging a coup of the household, battle defamatory gossip with a round of social activities, and figure out what Tristan will do with his time now that he's not pursuing a leading role in politics. They both feel conflicted as their time together dwindles, and bowing to the whims of Society doesn't settle well with Isolde. She does her best to be the duchess others expect of her, but I was relieved when Tristan and Isolde choose to be true to themselves and their special (ahem, passionate) relationship with each other. It's a treat to read for fans of the series, and I highly recommend each book, best enjoyed in order.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heart Devoted
by: Nichole Van
@nicholevan

-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“You will lead with me.”

~Falling in love was simple. Living happily ever after should be easy. But merging two disparate former lives into one proves more fraught...

“You can’t fix what has happened, but you can love me in its aftermath.”

-A Heart Devoted is without a doubt, a beautiful continuation of the dear story of A Heart Sufficient by dear author, Nichole Van. If you haven’t read A Heart Sufficient, it would be in your best interest to read it before A Heart Devoted. However, I would urge you to start at the beginning of the dear Penn-Leith Series to fully love, appreciate, and be moved by such a redemptive transformation of love that is weaved throughout this heartfelt and fantastic series. Each story you see, is like a puzzle piece that is intertwined and connected to the next to create such beauty and depth. Together this series stands true to time and will move you beyond words. It fully has my heart!❤️

-While this particular story may be shorter in length, rest assured dear friends, that it is like an extra measure of such deliciousness, the sweetness of dessert accompanying a fully satisfying meal, to conclude this series full of love, devotion, and heart! It’s paced just right and completely filled with such fantastic goodness that includes, witty banter, vivid characters, and extra swoony romance. I loved watched such remarkable characters rise above challenges and to the occasion with courage while staying true to themselves, and finding their own style, or measure together among a restricting society, simply put, This beautiful story is everything you could want and more. Well-done!❤️🙌🏻📚💯

“Together, they would be the duke and duchess they wished to be, not what society decreed.”

-Content: kissing only with several allusions to married intimacy. Some biblical swearing.

#aheartdevoted
#nicholevan
#allaboutthebestreads

“There will only, always, be you. My love. My forever.”

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Tristan and Isolde as easily as they fell in love with one another and it was the loveliest of times seeing what happened next in their love story. It is a must to read A Heart Sufficient in order to capture the full scope of what this couple is dealing with.

Life is rarely happily ever after once the “I do’s” are said and Nichole Van delivers a beautiful and heartfelt tale that snatches wisps of those feelings. Both Tristan and Isolde have led unconventional lives and must wage a battle of staying true to themselves and fulfilling societal expectations that come with their titles. A weaselly cousin and his ferret-like wife have staked their claim and there are smidgeons of mystery waiting to be solved.

This author’s writing style and plot pacing are some of my very favorites and never fail to snag my heart. The depth of this couple's love and commitment simply melted me. Many thanks to the author for the review copy of this beautiful story.

Content: fade to black between married couple; closed door, swoony romance with some innuendo and mild language

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*

[Tabitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Necessary to read after reading A Heart Sufficient or it won't be nearly as good. This is Tristan and Isolde right after being found and the twists and turns their life takes. What is their relationship like? How are they fitting into polite society? What is their home life like? Are extended family nearby?
They come home to a shock and receive more. There is an additional murder attempt and even a missing person. Can Tristan tolerate Hadley?
Clean. Romantic. A villain worth killing off if Nichole Van did that kind of thing. Worth reading.

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for an eARC.

OBSESSED IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK

You know when you have those FAVORITE characters? The story you can’t stop thinking about? And you would do just about anything to get more stories about them? THIS IS THAT BOOK. It felt like this beautifully crafted extended epilogue where I got to fall in love all over again with Tristan and Isolde.

Please please make sure you have read A Heart Sufficient (at minimum) before reading this book!

It was EVERYTHING. I soaked up these pages loving the communication and teamwork and the I would burn the world down for you vibes that only come from two enemies who became lovers (e2l supremacy). I appreciated how the conflict came from the outside and allowed Tristan and Isolde to only become closer as they leaned on each other to solve the problems before them.

And WOOOOO this was heated. In the best, closed door books can still be heated, kind of way. I just AHH. I can’t form the right words. I loved this story. I am obsessed with these two (A Heart Sufficient was the only book I read twice in 2024).

READ IT AND THANK ME LATER.

Overall audience notes:
- Historical romance
- Language: low
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: low

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Tristan and Isolde! This follow up to their epic romance in A Heart Sufficient is pure perfection. I loved every thing about this novella. It’s completely swoon-worthy!

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge Nichole Van fan, however I wasn’t so sure how it was going to go having a second book about two main characters. I loved it though. Tristan is such a great character. He’s overcome a lot. He’s made a complete turn around with his life and how he treats people. But can he maintain it when surrounded by his former life and huge triggers? Likewise Isolde has never fit in with society. Can she do so as a duchess? I loved watching these two take on London. I loved seeing how they found reason to change, reason to accept their strengths in certain circumstances, and how they let the hard bring them together instead of drive them further apart.

If you loved their story, you will love their extended story!

[Reanne - (Faith, Fiction, Fact and Fluff) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will never not love these characters. Like dessert at the end of a delicious meal, this story is the satisfying conclusion we needed.

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy sigh. But I’m not ready to leave them behind.

Updated to add - the narration was worth the wait!

[Tayo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full spoilers

I truly wasn't expecting a fifth entry in this series and certainly not one that continued following Tristan and Isolde. And I think this is the principle reason I felt underwhelmed (for lack of a better word). The long and short is that I don't think this entry added anything to Tristan and Isolde's story.

My longer more rambly musing is:

I felt that A Heart Sufficient was really the culmination of Tristan's growth arc through the series as a whole. Isolde was of course well developed and shined in that book, but for me the focus was more so on Tristan coming to terms with how captive he was being held by his terrible upbringing and choosing a more peaceful and happy path with Isolde. I thought that was executed brilliantly and the book as a whole, while having its tension points, felt super swoony and sweet. And resolved. In fact within the epilogue we get both a 4 year and a 6 year glimpse into our couple's future. I didn't leave with any lingering questions.

Now what I'm going to say is gonna sound super complain-y so here is where I have to preface that this was just not my vibe but it's Van so it's obviously still a really really good book, and it's not like it tanked the series or anything like that. It just wasn't a favourite read for me so here are some reasons why, for my own future curiosity.

In A Heart Devoted we go back to precisely where A Heart Sufficient ended (but before the Epilogue) to where Tristan and Isolde are spending time with family and intending to not return to London for an extended period of time in order to give them time to solidify their new marriage and relationship.

This plan is thrown to the wayside when through some plot machinations (in my opinion) they're summoned back by the Queen for a poetry reading. Tristan is especially wary as he's not sure if his newfound personality change will withstand the pressures of town and he's also reluctant to subject Isolde (a self admitted eccentric) to the Ton's scorn. But a summons is a summons so they make their way back home to a big ol' mess. While wrapped up in their honeymoon, their near death experience has led to Tristan's cousin-heir and his wife to try to usurp the dukedom, and they're not willing to clear the field even with Tristan's return.

What follows was pretty annoying to be honest (to me). It was Isolde and Tristan dealing with these annoying upstarts for the majority of this read somewhat together but mostly apart, until the conclusion where the law is laid down. There's also some intersecting plots of Tristan's secretary being missing and Tristan feeling incredibly lost in life since he's no longer engaged in politics and feels entirely directionless.

This plot just annoyed me for three principle reasons.

1. The whole cousin and his wife plot was truly one of the most annoying antagonists I've read in a while and they were present for the whole book. The tone didn't feel sinister enough to drive the plot in a compelling thriller-y way, but their actions were also not frivolous either. They posed a true problem for Tristan and Isolde but not in a way that added plot momentum. So it was just annoying to read about them so much for the whole book until the inevitable conclusion at the very end. This is a similar complaint I had with One Kiss Alone, not antagonist-wise but in terms of plot circularity that felt like the story was in a holding pattern.

2. I rarely engage well with stories where the main character/characters is in a transition phase in their life. Especially when there's no active decision making to drive said transition. Tristan feels lost since he's been closed out of politics and he doesn't know what to do next. He's sole focus is just being there for Isolde and their future family. Admirable, but not an engaging plot for me. He's occupied with trying to find his secretary in this story, but that also wasn't a plot that had a lot of forward momentum. More frustrating was within this story, Tristan's arc of picking his next life's purpose wasn't resolved in a satisfying manner.

3. And this is my main reason for this being 3 stars. There was no further development of Tristan and Isolde. I truly didn't feel like this story built off off A Heart Devoted. One of my favourite things in Van's books is how the main couple are truly a partnership. Adjacent But Only Just is my easy favourite in this series because of the depth of Malcolm and Viola's relationship, the understanding, the support, the communication. And I feel that lacked here. There was a great deal of emphasis on Tristan and Isolde's physical relationship (while still being a sweet read) but I didn't really see these two working together. Deepening their friendship within their marriage. That just wasn't explored, especially in comparison to the previous book which was highly disappointing to me. It felt like more of the same, but with more annoying characters and less plot momentum. SO yeah 3 stars.

Anyway those are my thoughts.

Still read this book, it was a quick read that was an easy way to pass some time.

[Diane Shearer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Love the series. I put off reading this knowing it’s the last. I didn’t want it to be over. I’ve read all but one of Nichole Van’s series now, which is bitter sweet because she’s so great. Kendall’s character arc is amazing. Plenty of romance authors redeem the antagonist but this is done with such a tender heart it stands out from the crowd. The writing is, as usual, extraordinary. If your main character is a poet you had better be a good writer. Also if you decide to turn a Duke from a ruthless politician into Tristan of legend who speaks Italian you had better be a great writer. Nichole Van does not disappoint. They are back in London for this story. I admit I miss the wilds of Scotland of the earlier books. But I loved this story. It melted me completely. The second epilogue is so beautiful. It is not to be missed. I’m going to need signed copies of these on my shelves(once I have bookshelves again) next to the Brotherhood of the Black Tartan, my next favorite of her series. I eagerly await the audiobooks. I want to hear Allegra’s Italian and Isolde’s Scottish accent. I started the first book for the cover. Nothing makes me happier than when a book lives up to a great book cover. Highly recommended.

[Joee (booksandacupofjoee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

PROTECTIVE TRISTAN IS EVERYTHING!!!!! I just adored getting more of Tristan and Isolde. I loved seeing Tristan be all protective and lovey!!! I just adore those two so much!! It's a little slow at times but I was enjoying every moment they had together. It was like an extended epilogue of their previous story. Made my heart swoon and so happy!

[Hilary B · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75

[Modern Miss Granger · Rating 5 out of 5]

🤍 Thank you so much @nicholevan for the arc of A Heart Devoted🤍

I fell head over heels for Tristan and Isolde in A Heart Sufficient and now to get more of their story, I was a puddle of feels.

The depth of love these two have for each other is emotional, fiery, and beautiful. They are soulmates, and as the reader I can feel that every time they’re on the page together.

Nichole Van never fails to write books that leave me with the biggest smile on my face and wishing I could turn back the pages and read it again for the first time.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Steam: kissing

[Shalini M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much as I was looking forward to it, I am sorry to say that I found it disappointing - an anomaly for the Nichole Van books I have read. I have always found her stories, including the two series that converge here, to have a depth as well as an insightful look into human relationships and character. But though the writing was beautiful as ever, and the relationship between Tristan and Isolde was sweet, I felt the story-line was lacking. A lot of space was taken up by the shrill voice and vile actions of their relative, Lady Lavinia. The very common trope of a scheming, evil, greedy woman was not something I expected from the book. I mean that it's okay as a thread, but not the main focus of the story.

Then, I wasn't impressed with the characterization of Isolde. She is said to be intelligent and strong, but from the view of the events, we only see her as a woman who is trying to mold herself to match the society's expectations, even if it is with the goal of helping her husband's ambition. She keeps assuring Tristan that she will handle the situation with Lavinia, but all she tries to do is to contain the damage Lavinia causes rather than thwarting her strategy.

I am really sorry, but I have come to expect more substance in her books.

[Alicia (aliciasalwaysreading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
GENRE
-historical romance

CONTENT
-🤬: mild language (15 d, 10 h, 1 bast***)
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: a truly monstrous cousin-in-law

I loved getting more time with Tristan and Isolde! This was a fun addition to their story. Because their marriage match was such a unique one, I liked getting a peek into how adjusting into "normal" life went.

I absolutely loved that Isolde wanted to be strong and take care of her problems like the independent woman she is, but I loved even more when Tristan had enough and went all Duke-of-Kendall on people on her behalf. SOOO DELECTABLE!

Lady Lavinia was awful. She is up there with Umbridge and the mother from When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer. It was so intensely satisfying to see her and her husband get what they deserved.

What an absolute delight of a series. Historical romance is not my typical go-to, but this is one I will revisit for sure.

Favorite Quotes:
-If theirs was to continue being a true marriage, then they needed to reach for one another, even when circumstances were difficult. Or, perhaps, particularly when circumstances were difficult.

-“I must say, witnessing all that Kendall vitriol wielded on behalf of my daughter rather warms my heart,” Hadley said as they settled back into the carriage.

-“I tell you because I see us as one unified soul,” she whispered. “I tell you to feel your arms around me, to know of your comfort and care. You can’t fix what has happened, but you can love me in its aftermath.”

“Believe me, Isolde Gilbert, when I say this.” He bit out the words with chilling enunciation, eyes burning with a holy fire. “I will burn this god-forsaken country to the ground for you.”

-This was the truest purpose of life—to give love and receive it in return.

[Berly · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was so satisfying! The first thing my eyes behld when I woke this morning was Tristan and Isolde's continued story. Now the last they will see is the wonderful conclusion of this book. I'm just so happy now! Perhaps I'll write a more proper review or perhaps I'll just let this muddle of words be my review and your cue to read this series and it's interconnected one, The Brotherhood of the Black Tartan.

So I woke up after dreaming of these characters all night. I felt that it needed a better review, especially for Amazon. So here is what I came up with...



All of the stars for Tristan and Isolde!

Have you ever read a book and not wanted it to end at the "they lived happily ever" part? Then this one is for you!

IT IS NOT A STANDALONE STORY! It is a continuation of A Heart Sufficient. These events take place right after that book concludes. Do yourself a huge favor and read this series in order. And even before that, read The Brotherhood of the Black Tartan series before that. That is a magnificent series and connects to this one, especially the last 2 books. (A Heart Sufficient and A Heart Devoted)

If like most readers you fell in love with this couple in A Heart Sufficient, you will be giddy with excitement that you didn't have to wait like the rest of us and have this one to dive right into.

I didn't read the blurb for this one and am not going to try to mention the plot of the book. Just read it after A Heart Sufficient and dream of Tristan all night after you do. I may or may not have personal experience with that.

It is a kisses only storyline with some marital intimacy alluded to.

[Savannah (forest_reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved spending more time with my lovelies Tristian and Isolde, even if I was stressed and angry at what they had to go through. Can't they just live in perfect peace and happiness for the rest of their lives?! (I know, I know. That's not how life works.) Nichole Van is a master in making you feel all the emotions with everything she writes.

The second half of this book truly shines. I love how everything turned out, and I never saw the plot twist coming. This book made me love Tristian and Isolde even more, if that was possible. It's such a beautiful story continuation.

I will say that I wondered if A Heart Sufficient needed a sequel. Tristian and Isolde's story wraps up perfectly in that book, and I love leaving that ending where it's at. However, A Heart Devoted was nice to just spend time with characters I love and see them overcame challenges in their new life.

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5

Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: fade to black

[Ashlee (bookswithnopictures) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My recommendation is to read this AFTER you've read books 1-4. This is one book I would never recommend reading as a standalone. I really don't think it could stand on its own two feet without at least having read A Heart Sufficient. It reads as a long extended epilogue with plenty of romance between Tristan and Isolde but little conflict that a typical novel would have from Nichole. I think the best way to compare this is to how the first four books in the series is like watching Downton Abbey the series and this book is the movie follow-up. So fans of this series and Nichole in general will love to revisit but I'm not sure that walking into it otherwise would be the same experience.
This sounds like a negative review on reading it back and it's not intended to be so. I do love this series so much and Nichole's writing is bliss. She has such a knack for the setting, time period, and creating lovely swoony romances for her characters. Tristan and Isolde's HEA is a favorite and seeing them in their honeymoon stage is incredibly endearing. I simply wanted more conflict and resolution to suck me in like the others.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Magdalena (magdal21) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The previous book about Tristan and Isolde ended so beautifully that I didn’t think any follow-up story was necessary—you can’t improve on perfection. However, the clash of the characters with the realities of life in London’s High Society turned out to be very interesting, and I enjoyed this novella almost as much as the original novel. Although this story relies more on vibes and situations than on an incredibly surprising plot, it made sense for it to be handled that way. Tristan has one of the best redemption arcs in romance, and it was nice to reconnect with him as a character. And Isolde - just can’t help but like her. 4.5 stars.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a delightful continuation of A Heart Sufficient. I enjoyed getting a little bit more of Tristan and Isolde's love story. I'd classify this book as closed door, as it's a story about a married couple, and all those things are suggested and implied. There is nothing more than kissing and flirting on the page. I liked reading about their growth individually and as a couple, and it was amazing to have a villain you hated more in this book than you hated Tristan 2 books ago.

[Rachael · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this was cute, I’m not sure it was necessarily needed. It’s definitely more of a me issue than anything else as I’m not a huge fan of novellas continuing on with the previous couple as they do tend to read a little meh to me. I just found it kind of boring at times and didn’t really care much for the conflict. It could have been half the page count and been more of an extended epilogue and I probably would have enjoyed it more