This is my first Anna St. Claire book, and it is a charming romance. I loved Bethany’s strength and independence as she took care of wounded soldier, Matthew. She is loving and caring. He definitely needed all she had to give. Interestingly, he turns out to be more than just a handsome British soldier she is trying to hide until he heals. Their romance blossoms through his healing even when he is blind and not sure of gaining his vision back.

Secondary characters add quite a bit to the story as we get to know Sinclair, who plays a major role as a secondary character when we are not sure if he is going to be a good or bad guy. And, Dandie is an adorable dog with good judge of character! Grandmere and Aunt Theo have raised Bethany well, continuing to offer great advice. Yes, Tobias and Smoot are an odd couple, but important to the story.

So, just checking on the purpose of throwing in the ‘breast’ activity toward the end of the book. Since this was not necessarily a sensual book, that seemed out of place. Romance does not always need to have those sex moments to be a good read. The old fashioned ‘fading to the sunset’ works from time to time even on the wedding night. Had it been intended to be an erotic romance, more could have been added, but both scenes seemed just kind of thrown in there. It is a super enjoyable romance either way, though.

This was a super cute read. I wasn't entirely sure going into it as I wondered how much could really be done with the premise but I did not think it was at all slow or lagging. I ended up really enjoying it. I'll definitely be checking out more books from this author soon and can't wait to hopefully see more of Matthew and Bethany in the sequels.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Earl of Excess is a sweeping, romantic journey that I didn’t want to end!

Matthew Romney is a colonel in the British military. Matthew is gravely wounded at the Battle of New Orleans, January 8, 1815. Bethany Phillips and her dog find Matthew under a mass grave. Bethany lived nearby and was collecting herbs as she is a healer. The couple is brought together through destiny, and the sparks fly as the couple faces danger at every turn. Matthew is a dedicated, strong-willed soldier disillusioned by battle. He demonstrates his iron will through the adversity of his debilitating wounds. Bethany is also solid and intelligent. Both characters are richly written and have power and depth.

The couple is forced into proximity after Bethany rescues Matthew and brings him home. The raw attraction is instantaneous. The depth of the passion between the two is off-the-charts. The sensuality sizzles just with their first kiss. I cheered for Matthew and Bethany’s happily ever after. The couple was endearing and captivated my heart.

The plot was fast-paced, and I couldn’t put the book down. The story was a refreshing change. This is the first book in this era I have read where the hero is a British soldier. Most novels at this time are written from the United States Army’s point of view. This created a unique world populated with unforgettable characters. There were all kinds of action and suspense mixed in with the romance. The writing was crisp and engaging. The novel was lovingly and carefully written. The conclusion was presented in a fresh perspective, using flashbacks; this gave a quality that stood out.

The Earl Of Excess is the first book in The Rakes Of Mayhem series. This book captures the flavor and feel of Louisiana. The romance was heartwarming and left me smiling. The characters were vivid and shone brightly. Great things are in store for this series. I am thrilled I found this exciting book. I recommend this novel to anyone who is looking for a romantic adventure.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is the first book in a series by a new to me author. Bethany saves the life of a British soldier, Matthew, during the battle of New Orleans. As she nurses him back to health, sparks fly. After enduring so much, they decide to make a life together. I enjoyed the descriptive scenery described by the author and can’t wait to read the next in the series. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.