Will a terrible secret ruin the true love that blooms between best friends?
Page count: around 215 pages
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Jane Watson cannot forget those long summer days with her best friend, John Christopherson. But... everything changed on the day John left to make something of himself.
She never forget John's promise . . . that he will make something of himself and return for her. When suddenly, two years later, at a ball, he appears... Can she hold him to his promise? Most of all, does he still love her?
While Jane wrestles with her feelings, it is clear that John's status is on the rise. He is no longer a farmer's son but a viscount.
Yet his rough upbringing means he may never be good enough for Jane, no matter how much he loves her, no matter what position he holds.
When John's father reveals a terrible secret of the most horrible nature, John must decide what to do. If he shares this secret, it will affect not only John, but Jane. It will also affect Jane's family...FAMILY, the one thing that matters to her most.
There is no way her family would ever approve of his marrying Jane now. Not after what his father did.
Will John be able to tell them all the truth? If he does, is true forgiveness really possible? Redemption is a powerful thing, but will John and Jane love and trust enough to experience it?
Once again we meet up with the family from Pritchford Place in Yorkshire. Seeing Cat, Ben, Julia and Shep again was like meeting old friends. Seeing how they have weathered their own storms and come through on the other side. This was the time to share Jane and John's story. John had always been Jane's playmate and friend as they grew up. It was only after her father's death that he had left her alone with the notion that he would one day come back for her.
Two years later she is out for her season and she unexpectedly sees him. There is something different about him and it isn't just his clothes. The story is a great third story to the collection. It takes us back to the scene of the fire and once again has Ben looking for clues. This book pulls together the clues from the last two books, but if you have not read them, you need to, but this is basically a stand alone. You will not want to, you will want to read all three.
Just a great romance with so much personality from this one family. I am so glad that I was able to read book three of the series. Charlotte Stone is really gifted with her writing ability. She has created an amazing family and then invited us in to get to know them. I personally would love to see these characters reappear in other books.
As the final book of the Fire and Smoke Trilogy, which should be read in sequence, we finally learn the answers to questions posed in the first volume. This series was an entertaining read and the climax worth the wait; however, I must take exception to the vast majority of reviewers who praised this as a well written story. True, the story was intriguing and the characters well developed, but well written? Not so much. Does the author actually review what she has just written? Do her editors/proofreaders actually read the manuscript before it is published? If they did, the terribly distracting writing mistakes would have been corrected long before I downloaded the books. Word omissions, improper sentence construction, and grammar errors are so prevalent that even someone like me, with little formal English language training beyond High School over 60 years ago, was disappointed with the writing. For me it was a great example of “haste makes waste.” The plentiful number of writing errors in this final book was simply a continuation of my experience with the first two books. Just going back and re-reading a reworked sentence would be a step in the right direction. Once a chapter is completed, go back and read it carefully before moving on. I know from personal experience that failure to do this can lead to humiliating mistakes. In writing a review like this I probably re-read it four or five times before submitting it. Even then, mistakes get through. In summary: This was a great story covering three separate protagonists in three books each worthy of a five star review except for writing errors which were a significant distraction, especially in the final volume.
The Viscount's Blazing Love is the third book in the series by Charlotte Stone. It can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading the first two books in the series before this one. I loved this book. I fell in love with Jane and John in the earlier stories so I couldn't wait for this book. They are likeable characters who love each other deeply. They have been friends since childhood, but John doesn't feel worthy of Jane because of his father and the way he was raised. Jane could care less. She just wants John. She always has. This is a great read with Wonderful happily ever after ending. I recommend this to historical fiction lovers who want a good and clean read.
I liked the characters but the whole discussion do you love me/can't marry you went on way too long. It got to a point that I had no idea why they kept putting themselves through it. The only real reason came up in the late part of the book and got polished off so not sure what the first 75% of the babbling was about. This author has good characters and tackles topics with some depth but it just lingers too long. Perhaps she could just add some action scenes and some harmless episodes of real life to provide some respite from all this dithering.
A beautiful story about knowing and sharing Gods love for us, as He gave us His uniquely born Son, and allowed Him to die Spiritually on the cross for the sins of the entire world, for us, who are all sinners, and through His Grace***Jesus Christ bore those sins, His Father judged them in Him and allowed us to be forgiven, by just believing in His Son, this is God's love...
I liked this story, just as I liked the other stories in this series. Though all the storylines are similar, couple loves each other but there is a misunderstanding or a simple reason keeping them apart, the stories are still entertaining, and all clean. They are also fairly quick reads. I will read more from this author.
This was a wonderful ending to a pleasant trilogy. Jane has been the calm in everyone else's storm. Now it's time for her HEA and she realizes that sometimes it's easier to coach than play the game.
I loved all three books in this series and look forward to reading more books by this author. I enjoy this time period the characters were unique and reading about them at their different stages in life throughout the series was enjoyable.
This was a quick and easy read. I always enjoy books in a series where characters are evolving. I'm glad that this family continued to be strong for each other.
Awwww! This was a good conclusion to this series. I really enjoyed the 3 books and this last book reveals all the secrets. Jane and John are lovely characters if a little frustrating at times. A great read.
I loved the "story" but words, words, words, repeat, repeat, repeat do not make a satisfying and pleasurable book. Please learn how to write without so many words.
This story is very clean so if you like a lot of sizzle then son,t read this book. The plot is very predictable and no great mystery regarding plot twists. Overall it,s okay but nothing that would make me want to read it a second time.
Another sweetly written historical romance by this author
Publisher's Description:
Will a terrible secret ruin the true love that blooms between best friends?
Jane Watson cannot forget those long summer days with her best friend, John Christopherson. But... everything changed on the day John left to make something of himself.
She never forget John's promise . . . that he will make something of himself and return for her. When suddenly, two years later, at a ball, he appears... Can she hold him to his promise? Most of all, does he still love her?
While Jane wrestles with her feelings, it is clear that John's status is on the rise. He is no longer a farmer's son but a viscount.
Yet his rough upbringing means he may never be good enough for Jane, no matter how much he loves her, no matter what position he holds.
When John's father reveals a terrible secret of the most horrible nature, John must decide what to do. If he shares this secret, it will affect not only John, but Jane. It will also affect Jane's family... FAMILY, the one thing that matters to her most.
There is no way her family would ever approve of his marrying Jane now. Not after what his father did.
Will John be able to tell them all the truth? If he does, is true forgiveness really possible? Redemption is a powerful thing, but will John and Jane love and trust enough to experience it?
My Thoughts: As expected from this author this is another well written and sweet romance. I have now read 4 books by this author under 2 pseudonyms. All have been very well written with believable characters from the time period. To me this just goes to prove that some romance titles do not have to be filled with sex and violence to be good. This one does have an underlining hint of violence that had occurred in the past but no true violence in the storyline. It is this reader/reviewer's opinion that this book deserves a 4.5 out of 5 star rating for storyline and characterization and 1 of 5 flames for heat. I have enjoyed reading this author's work and would recommend the read to anyone over the age of 15. With the lack of actual sexual and violent scenes it is suitable for a teen audience and would enrich their knowledge of the time period.
Regency Romance: The Viscount's Blazing Love by Charlotte Stone is a fantastic conclusion to her amazing "Fire and Smoke" series. Can be read as a stand alone, however, I'd suggest reading the others in this series, to better understand the characters and the circumstance development. Some questions are answered from the previous series that was previously left unanswered. Jane Watson and John Christopherson two best friends from opposite sides of Society. Can redemption find healing, forgiveness and have the power for true love and finding a HEA? Or will secrets destroy Jane and John's HEA? I have thoroughly enjoyed this series! The characters are genuine, engaging and compelling. The storyline is unique, intriguing and utterly fascinating, to me. When secrets are finally revealed can redemption follow or be lost forever? I was captivated from the first chapter forward. John and Jane are a lovely couple, one who stole my heart, completely.
Ms. Stone is a delightful storyteller, one who draws readers into her stories, and holds them completely captivated. I would recommend reading "The Viscount's Blazing Love" by Charlotte Stone for any fan of Historical Regency Romance, Clean Romance, and characters who captures your heart. Enjoyable and satisfying read!
Charlotte Stone has once more created a beautifully written romance. Her story has captured my attention from the beginning and swept me off my feet. The Viscount's Blazing Love is another regency romance that has the break it or make it moment. So intense and intriguing...readers won't want to stop reading it. Addictive, entertaining, and romantic. The characters come to life. Their ways and personalities make this story more than just words on a page. They made me believe, hope, and fall in love.
The Viscount's Blazing Love is exactly as the title suggests. Sweet, enticing, and fiery. Secrets come unfolding and choices have to be made. Two lovers separated long enough to cause doubt and confusion. This only stirs the plot more. Family and redemption are other major themes. The scenes were visually fascinating. Charlotte Stone has a way of magically bringing her words into realistic beings and places. The emotional tugs from the novel will keep readers hooked. I absolutely loved reading this new book. Charlotte Stone is still one of my favorite historical writers. After reading her novels, readers will easily understand why. Overall, I highly recommend The Viscount's Blazing Love to readers worldwide.
Jane Watson's childhood best friend was John Christopherson until everything changed on the day John left to make something of himself. She never forget his promise that he will return for her once he has made something of himself. Two years later,he appears at a ball, but she just doesn't know if he still loves her or even if he will keep his promise. John is no longer a farmer's son, but he is now a viscount. Because of his childhood. he doesn't think he will ever be good enough for Jane, and there is a horrible secret that will affect John, Jane, and her family. Family matters most to Jane. Can John tell them the truth, and if he does will they forgive him? Can their love survive with the truth of this secret? I love Regency romances. I highly recommend this book. I have loved all of the works of this author. Disclosure: I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I really didn't think this series could get any better, then I read this one. It was outstanding! It can definitely be read as a stand alone, but the first two books in the series introduce all of the characters and explain the back story as it continues with this book. This is Jane and John's story. They have been friends since they were very young. While they love each other, John, not having been born into an affluent family, feels that he will never be good enough for Jane. I was heartbroken at their parting. I could feel every painful and anxious moment they both experienced. I so wanted them to get together as they were perfect for each other. I won't spoil the ending, but I have to say that I cried. Rarely does a book evoke such an emotion in me. Charlotte Stone is simply a marvelous author. I'm not sure what is next in the series, but I am ready for the journey.
This was my first read by Charlotte Stone and the 3rd book in her Fire and Smoke series. It can be read as a stand alone novel and had no cliffhangers. I found Jane and John's story full of heart warming and sometimes heart wrenching moments, and spiced with just enough suspense to keep me guessing about the outcome. John is a gentle giant of a man, who has been in one way or another, the protector of everyone he has ever loved. The only person in his youth who looked out for him and bandaged his often battered body was Jane, whom he once crowned the Queen of the faeries. As young adults they both feel more than a loving friendship toward the other, and many of the obstacles to a happy future together are of their own making. I heartily recommend this novel to all lovers of historical romances, especially regency romance fans.
This is John and Jane's story. Jane is rhetoric toddler Cat was trying to save from the first book. She's all grown up and in love with her best friend John from childhood. John hasn't had the wonderful life that Jane has had. The oldest son of a mean and abusive drunk, John doesn't feel he's good enough for Jane. After letting her know he loves her, he leaves her thinking he's saving her for something better. Thus begins the real story of John and Jane. It's a story of heartache, surprises and secretes revealed. And, of course, some sibling interference may be needed to get these two back together. Charlotte Stone is an excellent story teller and this is one of her best.
True love may have bumps in the road but it does win out in the end! This story has been one of my favorites. I had read the first book in the Fire and Smoke series so long ago, I had forgotten some of these characters, but it didn't take long for them all to comeback. This story is of the younger sister as nd the neighbor boy she fell in love with, knowing they could never be together. Of course fate has a way of changing things and their love overcomes all obstacles. What a heartwarming tale, especially for the holidays! Great read, I loved every page!
Jane is still miserable after John left 2 years ago. She has not heard from him or about him in that time. Suddenly he appears at the last dance of the season and she is unprepared for his appearance. He had not contacted her and had told her to move on. What can he expect? Her brother and his wife decide to give the couple a hand. That can go either way. You'll like Charlotte Stone's Regency series. This is the 3rd or 4th I have read and not been disappointed.
I didn't expect this to be my favorite of the series but it was. I believe this is a new author and it's pretty obvious in her writing. She also desperately needs to hire a proofreader. Still, decent regency romance and pretty clean. (There is more passionate kissing than would be considered proper at the time and the language makes it clear that the married folks are having relations but isn't descriptive.)
Another awesome story in this series. I think this might be my favorite of the 3 books. I loved the storyline so much. I loved the involvement of the main characters from the other 2 books. This is a sweet and clean book. I look forward to reading more by this wonderful author!!!!
I don't want to give anything away for fear that would lessen the story for future readers. However, this is a beautiful and touching story that follows up The Earl's Unforgettable Flame.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected 34 errors.
Writing a very good book not only involves literary skills it involves an understanding of how minds work, how people interact, what is Involved in creating and resolving misunderstandings. C .S. does it all well