A Forbidden Romance Amidst an Exile In The Last Love, Thomas B. Costain dives into the poignant and lesser~known chapter of Napoleon Bonaparte's life during his exile on St. Helena. The novel centers on the unexpected and controversial relationship between Napoleon and Betsy Balcombe, the daughter of a British official. Their bond, set against the backdrop of political intrigue and isolation, challenges the expectations of the era and brings forward a fresh perspective on the complexities of Napoleon's final years.​ Costain's deeply rich narrative and historical perspective make this novel a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and those intrigued by the personal stories behind most important historical events.​