R D Blackmore was a 19th century English novelist. His writings show a true sympathy for nature. Many consider Blackmore the last Victorian writer. First published in 1869. Lorna Doone a Romance of Exmoor is an historical romance set in the times of Charles II and James II. John Ridd is a dashing young Exmoor yeoman whose father has been killed by the Doones, a clan of robbers and murderers. The vengeance which John vows he will exact is complicated by his love for Lorna Doone, whose kind heart is at odds with her evil family. The robber Doones are a band of aristocratic outlaws, who have been wronged by the newly installed James II,