WHAT A TRIP! Two earls and a viscount are taking their annual two week vacation. Friends since school days, each year one of them gets to choose the location .A letter for help takes them on a detour to save two sisters. One is eloping, the other is racing to stop her. An old friendship is renewed and a bond forms between the two sisters and the three friends. Hilarious results and a love that was always there, but never grew. Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.

This book was extremely charming. I loved the focus being on a group of Regency men romping around rather than the average focus of a single romance as with many Regency plots. I found the characters hilarious and, as this was my first read by the author, I look forward to reading more because I definitely laughed out loud at many moments. A great option for historical comedic fiction with romance added!

This a first time read by Jenny Holiday, new author to this reader. "Earl's Trip" was quite an enjoyable story i only requested because i wanted to expand my genres and i was not disappointed

Heat Factor: Even though there are sex lessons, they happen pretty late in the game and aren’t super scandalous.

Character Chemistry: Childhood BFFs who need to learn how to talk to each other again.

Plot: Archie, while on his annual vacation with his bros, is asked to rescue his childhood friend and her sister from an elopement. So now there are extra people on the Earls’ Trip. Archie isn’t sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing.

Overall: There is nothing subtle about this book.

In the last book I reviewed by Jenny Holiday, Canadian Boyfriend, I mentioned that I didn’t love the hero’s journey into learning about emotional labor, because it felt preachy—similar to the feminism of the Barbie movie. Unfortunately, we’ve got more of that vibe here…but more so. Look, being in your 20s and having deep conversations with your friends about found family is a great experience to have. I remember those days when I was in college and my roommate and I would sit and talk for so long that the sun would set and all of a sudden we’d be sitting in the dark. Those were great moments of bonding and personal growth! However. I have no desire to read about other people having these conversations. I just don’t. So when Archie and his bros started getting philosophical about salt and strawberries (multiple! times!), my eyes threatened to roll out of my head and across the floor. Which would be gross, because I do not vacuum as often as I should.

Let me back up.

The set-up here is that Archie and his two besties go on a trip together every year: the eponymous Earl’s Trip. (Obviously, what happens on Earl’s Trip, STAYS on Earl’s Trip. Sidenote, my husband has trained our small children to respond with “STAYS in [Place Name]” whenever he says “What happens in [Place Name]?” It’s the little things.) Earl’s Trip has rules; the main one is that each participant gives up doing the thing they spend the most time on when they’re at home. The politician is not allowed to read the newspaper. The poet is not allowed to read his poetry. And Archie is not allowed to…hunt. Anyways. They go on this trip together every year, and it’s a time for them to let loose and be themselves and refresh their spirits and get drunk and have philosophical conversations.

This time, things don’t go as planned, because Archie is asked to rescue Clem (his childhood friend) and Olive (her sister) from an elopement gone wrong. It’s convoluted, but also resolved quite quickly, leading to the real set-up: to wit, that Clem and Olive have now joined the men on their Earls’ Trip, and things aren’t quite the same. At first, Archie desperately tries to keep things the same by telling Clem to make herself scarce so he can have his bro time, but that doesn’t feel right, so Archie then encourages Clem to hang out with him.

This is, understandably, confusing for Clem. Is Archie just being polite, or does he actually want to hang out with her? So now we have Archie and Clem being confused about each other and their feelings and what they want, so obviously we’re in romance territory!

Now, most of this romance conflict is really well done. They haven’t seen each other for several years, so of course they have to wade through the feelings of being with someone who is intimately familiar, but different now. There is a whole central conflict which seems silly on the surface—Archie loves to hunt and Clem is a vegetarian—but, while I scoffed initially, there’s a scene where Archie forces Clem to come hunting with him (it’s a “I’ll try your thing if you try mine” kind of thing) and it really forces a reckoning, both as a moment of personal growth for Archie (because WTF, making someone go hunting when they don’t eat meat because they believe killing animals is unethical is Not Cool) and as a moment of relationship growth (because Archie learns that he cares more about Clem than he thought he did).

Despite his misstep with the whole hunting thing, Archie is a very kind person. (His friends tell him that his great talent is loving people.) I like that in a romance hero—in theory. But in execution, this book didn’t really work for me. It was just…too much kindness and understanding, even surrounding the points of conflict. For example. Here’s Clem and Archie, talking about Clem’s relationship with her sister:

“How does one broach a conversation like that?”

“Yes, I see the dilemma.”

“That wasn’t a rhetorical question. I’m actually asking you. You are uniquely good at this sort of thing, at having conversations that are…sticky.”

He grinned like a boy at her praise, but he didn’t have much of an answer. “I suppose you can’t take her up a tree and simply ask her who her long-lost love is?”

“How could my sister have had such a love—and have lost it—right under my nose?”

He was fairly certain that was a rhetorical question, so he didn’t answer. “I was jesting, but only somewhat. If you think I’m uniquely good at having ‘sticky’ conversations, it may only be because I blunder ahead and just…have them.”

“You do, don’t you?”

“One feels so much better having done so, don’t you find? Even if the doing makes one feel somewhat inelegant? And if the outcome isn’t what one would have wished, at least there is an outcome.”

Sure, this is good advice. But I don’t read romance novels to get good advice on having tough conversations! I read romance novels for mess, drama, and swoon! If authors want to teach readers about having tough conversations…authors can force their characters to have tough conversations, rather than have their characters teach each others *how* to have tough conversations.

The more I write this review, the more disappointed I am in this book. I’m going to chalk this one up as a miss for me. Maybe I’ll go read a good bodice ripper as a palate cleanser.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.

What a delightful read! Earl's Trip had me laughing, crying and itching for more! Archie is charming, thoughtful and oh so sweet, which pairs so well with the kind, wild Clem. I loved watching these friends find their feelings for each other and develop their friendship into a relationship. If you're looking for a fun, easy to read, regency romance, Earl's Trip is the book for you.

You know with a title like Earl's Trip it's going to be a hilarious, wild ride. I opened the first chapter and it was called The Boys Are Back In Town. I laughed so hard, other favorites were:
The Girls Enter The Chat
Go Ahead and Panic
The Gentlemen Are Resplendent in Silk
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Now it was of course hilarious but the story was also super sweet and some really heartfelt moments. I obviously loved Archie and Clem but the moments between Clem and her sister and learning to understand each other was just beautiful! Also, Archie and his pals were so funny and I loved all of them! Overall, this is a low angst, childhood friends to lovers romance with a little bit of spice! I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series!

Earls Trip was a cute little wholesome book that, while entirely adorable, probably wasn't the most historically accurate. But we can look past that fact because of the cuteness.

I really loved every single character. Archie's growth as a character in such a short span was very sweet and how much he loved Clementine was swoon-worthy, imo. Clem was also equally as delightful, with her love of nature and being able to just sit in the woods and be at peace. Their little love story was full of equality, communication, and understanding. They also had a few little sexy scenes that were, dare I say perfect?!?

The only reason this wasn't a 5 star was a bit because of that historical inaccuracy. I know I know it's not supposed to be, but the 3 men in here were so damn progressive it left me shocked. I just didn't feel like this could be the case, but maybe I'm wrong!

Either way, go read this book. It's an easy read with lovable characters in a romantic setting. What more could you want??

What a delight! This book was truly adorable with a slow burn friendship that develops into a sweet romance that makes you kick your feet and squeal with delight. The mishaps that lead to funny shenanigans kept you entertained and the characters leave you hoping that this will become a series.

This book wasn't for me. I never really got into the story. At times I felt it was confusing. I listened to the audiobook and practically fell asleep everytime I tried to listen to it.

Just when I thought I couldn’t love Jenny Holiday more, I met Regency Jenny Holiday. I’ll admit I’m a sucker for an odd Regency heroine, and Clementine is an excellent example. A vegetarian who prefers rambling in the woods to being a proper lady, she breaks off her engagement but not before “anticipating her vows”. Her sister runs off with her former fiance, and childhood friend Archibald is sent by her father to track both girls down. Unfortunately Arch is headed on his annual Earl’s Trip with his two best friends. They rescue the girls and allow them to crash their boys only fortnight. Over the course of the trip, many secrets are revealed, including a love story that surprised only the two main characters. I loved every moment of this book!

As you can tell by the title, this story follows three best friends on their annual September holiday to the country. Archibald Fielding-Burton, Archie to his friends, and also the Earl of Harcourt is very much looking forward to this year’s trip. He has a lot to talk about to his friends and is ready to blow off some steam. Simon and Effie are the two other men on this trip. They get interrupted by Clementine and Olive’s father, who is worried about his daughters. The Morgan sisters end up on this men’s trip and hilarity ensues. Clementine Morgan has been Archie’s friend since they were little. They have not seen each other in a while. Clementine is a bit of a wild child and is currently opposed to marriage. Olive was about to be married off, but she was realizing too late that he was not the right man for her. This is definitely a great friends to lovers romance. I love that Clementine and Archie were so competitive in different things. I also really like that Clementine loved her sister and Archie really loved his friends. The fact they have an annual trip planned is really sweet. An interesting twist in the story was that Clementine was a vegetarian, which usually does not show up in historical romances and it was nicely woven into the story. This was just such a fun story. There were some sad aspects to what the individual characters were personally dealing with, but it just added to the depth of the story. I loved all the characters. This book is definitely worth reading. Perfect weeknight or weekend escape.

I really enjoyed this regency romance. I do read a lot of romance, so was excited to try something in the Regency era, especially given we are still waiting on Bridgerton season 3, and this didn't disappoint.

This story is a pure delight. A sweet puff of cotton candy, light and delectable effused with colour. I absolutely loved the characters within, which makes me so excited for future Earl Trips and the shenanigans I know will occur. Archie & Clementine are the ideal dream couple. Bosom pals whose bond reignites the moment they reunite. It gives that perfect fairytale feel. The excitement of the rescue and the ensuing adventure was simply a joy. I keep using those terms, joy, delight but they are truly the pure embodiment of this story. The romance gives you all the butterfly feels. The family evolutions that sweet spot that tugged at the heart, whether the sisters bonding or Archie’s maternal struggles and understanding. There were so many spots where the story hit some buried emotion within myself, connecting me to the story whether through literal understanding or commiseration. This story is simply beautiful light fun.

Earl's Trip sounded like it was right up my alley. While I enjoyed some parts of it, this book was not for me. It was very repetitive and at times, quite boring. I wish there had been more talk of what happened during the day with the boys and the girls, not just between the two main characters at night.

Earl’s Trip by Jenny Holiday follows three best friends on their annual September holiday, which is interrupted by the Morgan sisters.

Will Archie and Clem get a happily ever after?

Archibald Fielding-Burton
Archibald, better known as Archie, is the Earl of Harcourt. He doesn’t always like the stuffiness that comes with his title. Hence, he loves these annual trips with his dear friends. Archie is the type of person who will protect the people he loves and do things with that person. I have to say that Archie is a great character, and I love how complex he is. In some parts, he was hilarious, and I loved every bit of it. Archie, though, is a bit dense regarding his feelings about a certain wild child.

Clementine Morgan
Clementine Morgan is Archie's childhood friend. They both lost contact with each other. The whole reason that Clementine opposes marriage is that she doesn’t want to be made into someone that she isn’t. See, Clem is a wild child. She would rather be outdoors in the country than in Town with the society people. Clem has then figured that she will forever be an old maid because there won’t be anyone that would want that. She loves her family a lot and loves animals as well. Archie will definitely have his hands full with this one.

Simon, Effie, and Olive
Archie’s friends are Simon and Effie. Simon is an Earl in his own right, even if the way that came about is sad, while Effie is currently just a Viscount and will eventually become an Earl. Simon is about trying to do a great job at his new title, even without formal training. Effie is an artist in a way that his parents will never get, and he tries to be interested in everything that goes on with someone of his title....except it doesn’t always work out. Olive is Clementine’s younger sister, and there is more to her than even Clementine thought there was.

I loved how these five characters embraced each other on their shared holiday and have become friends.

Five Stars
I am giving Earl’s Trip by Jenny Holiday five stars and recommending it to all the historical romantic comedy readers out there. I do have a warning, though, as a couple of scenes aren’t meant for young eyes. Besides that, I loved this book, and if it weren’t for the fact that I got sick, I would have finished it sooner.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Earl’s Trip by Jenny Holiday.

Until the next time,
Karen the Baroness

If you would like to see other reviews like this one, check out Baroness Book Trove.

"What happens on Earls Trip, stays on Earls Trip."

Thank you to Kensington Books & Netgalley for this eARC!

The cover and title initially sold me on this book, and I was so happy to find a great story inside!
This modern take on historical romance had me giggling & staying up late. From the get-go, I was reminded of The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels, which I absolutely loved! I was so excited to find a book that felt similar in voice and tone to that one.

I think where this book really shines is in its relationships, most especially in the friendships between the three Earls. They are such sweet, understanding, and supportive friends; I loved seeing them get into shenanigans together, as well as have tender heart-to-hearts. They really give found-family vibes, and I can’t wait for the rest of their stories!

I also thought the main characters had great chemistry. And the spice was done very well!
And the ending was so sweet— I was holding back tears! Well done.

My critiques are two-fold.
Firstly, the pacing felt a bit slow at times. I think its a combination of this being a heavily character-driven novel and that the beginning started with such an action-packed bang.
Secondly, I didn’t love that Archie had to give up his one hobby, espcially when it seemed to mean so much to him. I think there were different ways to resolve that particular plot-point that wouldn’t have felt as forced. It was still an admirable gesture on his part, but it left me feeling a little uneasy.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I had a great time with these characters and I loved getting to know them; I’ll definitely be continuing with the series. I was delighted to read that the next book will follow Effie! Also, the title, “Manic Pixie Dream Earl”, is hilarious.

What a cute story! I'm quite pleased with it. It was really sweet. The setting is charming. It has some modern takes, but it doesn't pretend otherwise, so it works with the flow of the story.

At its core, this is a story of friendship, of considering other people’s needs, and of what it means to care for our people as they really are. To know them. To consider their perspectives. To consider the various needs each one has. There’s a poetic beauty in this little story that I did not expect. I love that the characters are so very obviously different, but they love each other incredibly well - the whole lot of them. There’s an insightful, understanding tone to the whole thing. And, for those who care, there’s a vegetarian-friendly tone to the story.

I’m not familiar with Bridgerton (le gasp!), but it did have that wholesome Ted Lasso feel to it that I thoroughly enjoyed. Well. Wholesome to a point. I was almost caught off guard when we hit an open door moment. The course of actions fit the characters though. I did not have to suspend belief for all that transpired, which is perhaps a common objection that keeps me from engaging with many romcoms.

I understand there is to be a follow up next year. If many of the characters return and it has a similar tone, I would check it out. Archie’s perspective and consideration for others is part of what I loved about this, so it may not be the same. But maybe it'll be good in its own way. For now, I'm pleased with this little adventure.

3.5 stars rounded up! Such a solid start, and a tear jerking ending. The 2nd quarter of the book had me yawning a bit, but the rest of the book made up for it. Kind of a spicy basis for a regency book, but that doesn't even come into play until like 50% in so there's more storyline than what we get in the summary.

The author tries to make up for the unfortunate reality of the time by making Clementine a strong feminine character who has no aspirations to get married or have children. I know that this is the point of a romance to get them "together", BUT books that make a woman change her set life plans because she "finally met the right man" isn't my favorite. It reinforces the idea that men can disregard who we are and change us because they know best! That being said, that isn't the vibe of this book at all, but it's on the edge of that fine line. Luckily, Archibald is a gem of a man who really respects every boundary that that Clementine set -- so he's not changing her on purpose! Bare minimum now, but not for the time period -- he also doesn't consider women "ruined" if they've been with another man. Clementine is also Vegan and Archibald loves hunting so there's that difference between them too.

I saw some comparisons to The Hangover, to which I respectfully disagree. Much calmer than that besides the beginning! Still a similar idea though of a guys trip. All the bestie men on the trip have their own interesting relationships with their families. This book is mostly told from the POV of Archie which is cute!

There's an interesting sister relationship dynamic, but at the end of the day they're wholesome!

Just saying, that reptile probably died if it was raised in captivity since birth :,)

Content warning: parent with Alzheimer's -- part of the tear jerking ending. Enjoyed this.

Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute historical romance about 3 friends who go on an annual trip but have to detour this time to rescue an old friend and her sister from a rascal. They end up staying in a run down castle with the sisters after their rescue. They all become good friends and a romance blooms between 2 of the characters.

I'm not one to usually read books from a male protagonist POV. However, Earl's Trip was surprisingly delightful and a breath of fresh air. To be a period piece that includes positive male relationships with a level of openness we don't normally see from the male POV - it was very well done! I'm excited for the subsequent books in the series.

For the Bridgerton lovers - this is a must read!