Though I prefer my little round-ups, I’ll be obligated, once in a while, to offer a “DRC” review (which, in effect, is no longer an “ARC” as it’s in the world for your reading choice). I no longer request review copies, but goodness knows, like most romance review bloggers, I have QUITE a backlog, so you’ll be seeing a few of these in the coming months.

Vasti is a new-to-me-author, but I’d heard good stuff about her Ne’er Duke Well and wanted to give her a try. I wasn’t disappointed. I’m not damning with faint praise: Earl Crush is a good romance read, the reasons for which I’ll offer after the publisher’s orienting blurb:

For three years, wallflower heiress Lydia Hope-Wallace has anonymously penned seditious pamphlets—and for almost as long, she’s corresponded with the reclusive Earl of Strathrannoch. When Arthur’s latest letter reveals his dire financial straits, Lydia sets out for Scotland to offer him the only salvation she can think of: a marriage of convenience. To, um, herself.

But the real earl has no idea who she is. When a bewitching stranger offers him her hand in marriage, Arthur Baird is stunned. And when he learns that his traitorous brother has been writing to her under Arthur’s name, he’s bloody furious. He’s content to live alone in his moldering castle, and he has no desire for a radical wife. (Or at least, he shouldn’t.)

But Arthur is desperate to track down his brother, who’s become dangerously entangled in British espionage, and he needs Lydia’s help. What he doesn’t need? The attraction that burns hotter each moment they spend together. As Lydia slips past his defenses and his brother’s mysterious past becomes a very present threat, Arthur will have to risk everything to keep her safe—even his heart.


First and foremost, though Vasti’s Regency romance doesn’t break any genre ground, she is an able writer, penning with verve, energy, and humour. She has created two loveable protagonists, though Lydia is developped in more interesting ways than Arthur. Vasti can paint a scene and she does equally well with banter, dialogue, and inner monologue as she does with action (the marauding zebras scene was a hoot and she can easily try her hand at romance suspense as I was breathless in the romance’s final scenes).

Vasti’s romance is conventional and familiar and can be a comfort read. The writing stands out as better than most Regency romances. Readers will enjoy Earl Crush. (If they’re not sitting around expecting to be blown away as we were with Grant’s A Lady Awakened. Vasti also doesn’t play with ideas and turn conventions on their head, as Grant did, as does the more recent still-thinking-about-it Felicia Grossman romance, Wake Me Most Wickedly, or the elegant Joanna Bourne who, like Grant, isn’t writing romance anymore. Alas, the genre is generic. *shrugs*)

If I have a critique, it’s the hero’s characterization: why can’t romance writers manage to write edgy heroes who aren’t alpha-holes? Arthur is lovely and loving, but he’s not terribly interesting, just blah blah blah adoring. We’re back to romance as heroine wish fulfillment instead of a hero who stands as a compelling character on his own. As for Lydia, she suffers from social anxiety (another recent romance trend) and emerges from it in compelling ways, without insta-cure. (IMHO, Earl Crush also suffers from one too many repetitive love scenes. But it does have a magnificent epilogue.) Aside from these quibbles, Vasti’s Earl Crush comes recommended with Miss Austen’s stamp of “real comfort,” Emma.

Alexandra Vasti’s Earl Crush is published by St. Martin’s Press and released on Jan. 21. I received a DRC courtesy of St. Martin’s Press, via Netgalley. The above is my honest, AI-free opinion.

Boy was this fun!

This was my first Alexandra Vasti read, and I cannot wait to get into her backlist. Earl Crush was masterfully written, fun, sexy, engaging, historically accurate, and even very feminist-forward. While I did not really care for the love story aspect of this book, I overall found this a fun read that was not difficult to get into and stick with.

Lydia is the perfect FMC for women like me who both love and adore heroines in historical fiction/historical romance and need them to be more of a modern woman on certain topics. Arthur and Lydia had perfectly fine chemistry, but when they came together as a couple it just didn't click into place like I'd hoped it would. I also am trying—and failing—to become the type of person who is okay with fake dating/marriage but it only contributed to this not exactly working for me here. I did feel they were very true to life and dynamic, often facing feelings and emotions that aren't really explored in historical romances I've read.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Griffin, and NetGalley for providing an ARC!

3 ⭐️s
2 🌶️

This book was one of my most anticipated releases this year. I LOVED the first book in this series and the author’s other series - The Halifax Hellions. Her take on the regency romance genre is so refreshing. It’s very modern while also still feeling like a regency romance. This book fell flat for me. I can’t say why I wasn’t a huge fan without spoiling major plot points, but I will say I just did not buy the love story. Even though this one wasn’t for me, I still plan to read the next book in the series and anything the author writes going forward.

This was so delightful! I am a huge fan of historical romances, but sometimes a lot of the newer books try to force in 21st-century characters and plotlines that don't fit or take me out of the story. I am so pleased that Earl Crush delivered everything I love about historical romances and more. Lydia is a character that should please most audiences both those who love historicals and those who have a more "modern" sensibility. When we meet Lydia she is on her way to propose marriage to her pen pal, a man who can use her funds while also understanding that she has a certain liberal sensibility that manifests in pamphlets that she writes under a pseudonym. When she gets to Scotland and realizes that the man she is meeting has no idea who she is well...hijinks ensue.

I adored both Lydia and Arthur. Their chemistry is apparent from page one and I love how they get closer and closer in the story while also getting wrapped up in increasingly dangerous plots. The story never feels silly but fun and sexy and romantic and all the pieces fit together so nicely. I was invested in the political story happening as well as what was happening between Lydia and Arthur while also nervous how it would all end up! I loved Lydia's brothers and her friend Georgiana (who it seems we will be seeing more of soon???) and when all the pieces fell into place I wasn't sure how it was all going to resolve. Vasti clearly knows the genre so well and I loved her attention to detail as well as the author's note where she talks about her inspirations for the book and I loved how well researched this was. Also did I mention how hot this book was??? Because OMG!

Please pick this up if you are at all interested in historical romance or if you just enjoy great plots with even better romances.

Thank you so much to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

Romance and mystery! What more could I ask for from a book? I truly loved the dynamic of both leads. The fake dating/marriage was done in kind of a funny way that really worked for these characters. It was different from other historical romances but in the best way possible. I love seeing a free-thinking woman find someone who loves her for her brilliance. The mystery woven in with the Earl's brother was fun to follow and when they finally pieced together his plan... *gasp* Just enough drama, and PLENTY of romance. I absolutely loved this book!

I love Alexandra Vasti's writing and after reading my second book, Earl Crush, I can confirm how much I enjoy reading her work! Her mix of just this side of outlandish balanced with depth of human emotion wrapped up in a mystery is my favorite type of story. I also thought the way she begins each chapter with a few sentences from a letter, journal entry, quote was very clever as it was a careful placed clue for the reader and our own added mystery to sort out.
The main characters, Lydia and Arthur, come to the story weighed down with personal worries, social awkwardness, and sometimes crippling self- doubt. The story begins with Lydia searching for far-fetched solution in her future at the home of a man she has been exchanging letters with for three years. She is surprised by what she finds, and it sets her on a most expected adventure that may cost her everything or give her what her heart desires. This story examines the effect of childhood experiences, not fitting into the expected standards of a social situation and the power of putting aside one’s fears to help another! Alexandra has given us as easy to read romp that is fun to read but also gives readers pause. I will confess that I had tears during quite a few scenes.
The world of friendship and family as well as the supporting characters were as much of the story without being taken away from Lydia and Arthur. The danger they all encounter is explained in the author's note, and I wasn't surprised to find the circumstances of the story were interlaced with fact!
Earl Crush is an entertaining regency romance with a perfect combination of couple chemistry, twist and turns, emotions and a hold your breath last few chapters. A winning combination in my opinion.
I received an ARC through Net Galley and am leaving my voluntary opinion based solely on my reading experience.

This was so much fun and so steamy. I loved the mistaken identity, force proximity to fake marriage romance SO MUCH! And the intrigue, spy and revolutionary plot that brings the MCs closer together was intriguing, but not too intense. I love love love the Duke and Lydia together, and seeing the Duke's softer side and how smart and savvy Lydia is. I need to read more by this author!

This was my first book by this author, and it was good.

A light enjoyable read, with lots of spice. I enjoyed it overall but thought that 1) It was a tad predictable at times 2) the spicy scenes could use a bit of variation. I enjoy spicy scenes, but felt that the author could have varied them somewhat to make them sizzle. They were all very similar.

Overall, a cute spicy read but not earth shattering.

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martins Press for providing me with an eARC of this book to review.

You know what I love? Smart, rebellious Victorian/Regency women and nobility love interests who are total puppy dogs around them and support their every endeavor. Earl Crush gives me that and more! In it, Lydia has been corresponding with an earl about politics, and when she learns he could use some money (of which she has plenty) she heads out to propose marriage to him. When she gets to his estate though, the earl she finds isn't the one she expects.

Lydia is so relatable-ezceedingly shy and nervous, and then when she gets the gall to finally do something bold and brash and it goes sideways, she barfs. But then she stands firm for herself and becomes more confident and sure. Arthur, the earl-but-not-who-she-was-expecting, is supportive and sees nothing but her best qualities. There's a fun mystery that keeps the two together (with fake dating) and it's based on things that actually happened during that time!

Vasti is going to cement herself in the historical romance hall of fame if she keeps this up! Her stories are full of heart, varied characters, and joy.

Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Griffin for the e-ARC!

Oh, I adore Alexandra Vasti's writing, and I swooned over the burgeoning romance between Lydia Hope-Wallace and the Earl of Strathrannoch. It's got intrigue, and charm, and wit, and chemistry. What more could we want?

Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for sharing this book with me.

If you’ve been craving a Regency romcom with equal parts wit, heart, and wild adventures (plus zebras), let me introduce you to Earl Crush by Alexandra Vasti. This book had me grinning, swooning, and clutching my heart as Lydia and Arthur’s story unfolded.
Lydia, a socially anxious heiress and secret political pamphleteer, and Arthur, a gruff but soft-hearted Scottish earl, have a meet-not-so-cute for the ages. Lydia arrives at Arthur’s estate ready to propose a marriage of convenience, only to discover the letters she’s been exchanging for three years weren’t written by him at all—but by his missing brother. What follows is a road trip adventure filled with spies, mistaken identities, fake marriage shenanigans, and plenty of sizzling chemistry.
The banter between Lydia and Arthur is chef’s kiss. Arthur falls for her hard, and watching their mutual pining evolve into deep, soul-stirring love was everything I didn’t know I needed. Lydia’s quiet strength and Arthur’s fierce devotion make them a perfect pair. Add in a delightful cast of side characters (and the occasional exotic animal), and you’ve got a story that feels both hilarious and heartfelt.
Vasti balances humor, spice, and emotional depth so seamlessly. The plot is fast-paced and full of surprises, and while the third-act breakup pulled at my heartstrings, the epilogue’s tender letters between Lydia and Arthur made everything worth it.
If you’re looking for a historical romance that’s sexy, adventurous, and laugh-out-loud funny, Earl Crush is the perfect choice. Alexandra Vasti continues to prove why she’s one of my go-to authors for romance with depth and joy.

Alexandra Vasti is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical romance authors, and “Earl Crush” is another winner. Packed with mistaken identity, forced proximity, and a fake relationship, it’s swoony, spicy, hilarious, and even throws in a bit of mystery. What’s not to love?

The story follows Lydia Hope-Wallace, an introverted heiress and secret political pamphlet writer, who heads to Scotland to propose to her pen pal, the Earl of Strathrannoch. Except... the earl isn’t who she’s been writing to—it’s actually his brother. Cue chaos, a pack of zebras, fake marriage shenanigans, and a thrilling espionage plot as Lydia and Arthur Baird team up and find their chemistry impossible to ignore.

Arthur is the perfect blend of stoic and swoon-worthy, and Lydia is a heroine worth rooting for. Their adventure is laugh-out-loud funny, romantic, and impossible to put down. If you’re not reading Alexandra Vasti yet, you’re seriously missing out. I can’t wait for the next HEA in this world!

🎧🎧🎧
Mhairi Morrison made this audiobook so much fun to listen to. Her English and Scottish accents were flawless, and she nailed Arthur’s voice perfectly. She brought Lydia and Arthur to life with so much personality, making every moment even better. If you’re into historical romance, this audiobook is an absolute must-listen.

Thank you @alexandravasti, @smpromance, @stmartinspress, @dreamscapemedia and @netgalley for the gifted ARC and ALC. All opinions expressed are my own.

Witty, romantic, and utterly charming!

Lydia's hilarious mishaps had me in stitches from the start, while her strength and sharp wit kept me hooked. Though I was unsure about Arthur at first, he quickly won me over. Their adventure as faux newlyweds, tracking down their endangered siblings, was thrilling and heartwarming at the same time.

This delightful story perfectly filled the Bridgerton-shaped hole in my heart, especially since Lydia feels like a perfect blend of Penelope and Eloise! I was left with a smile on my face and I'm immediately going back to read the first book in the series now.

This book was fantastic i actually finished it about a week ago and I loved the way that it wasn't a normal historical romance and had a bit of a mystery twist to it as well! I will definitely recommend this to people.

5⭐️
3🔥

Quick Breakdown

Historical Romance
Meet Disaster
Wallflower x Scottish Earl
Forced Proximity
Mystery & Espionage
Only One Bed
Mutual Pining
Love Letters
Dual POV
Open Door - Moderate

Lydia has been a shy & socially awkward wallflower with a secret. She anonymously pens radical political pamphlets & ends up in a 3 year long correspondence with a like minded Scottish Earl. Tired of failing on the marriage mart and in search of more freedoms, she travels to Scotland to literally propose. A marriage of convenience with someone she considers a friend feels like her best option. But when she arrives, the Earl of Strathrannoch has no idea who she is..

My first book of the year & it was a 5⭐️ banger!

After one of the most brilliant meet-disasters that sets the tone for the rest of the book, I was helpless to fall in love. Lydia & Arthur were perfectly crafted MCs. I adored Lydia & her quiet strength that she shared with those who matter most. The way she willingly & selflessly acted out of her comfort zone to help Arthur. He never stood a chance.

The mutual pining was absolutely delicious. The build up of tension it brought made the spice that much more intense. Pair this with the added bonus of mystery, espionage & silly hijinks it’s no wonder this worked so well for me.

I primarily listened to Earl Crush. It’s narrated by Mhairi Morrison who has quickly turned into one of my favorite narrators for historical romances. It was an absolute delight & I recommend you listen to too if given the chance!

I liked this one in the beginning but then there was a lot of details in the plot and I lost interest.

Solid 4 stars. It took me a bit to get into the book but once I got going. oh man did I ENJOY THE RIDE! It's a "potato" chip book you can't really stop until you finish the book. Would highly recommend it to all my friends especially if they enjoy romance and/or historical-ish romance.

3.5 stars

After carrying on a correspondence with fellow politically inclined pen-mate Arthur Strathrannoch, Lydia Hope-Wallace sets out to offer a marriage of convenience. Except - she later learns- it wasn't really him she was writing to, a news she received by casting up her accounts on her shoes.

<i>Earl Crush<i> is trademark Vasti - riotous hijinks and scintillating chemistry - until the very end. The explosive chemistry was the bit I enjoyed the most - the sheer longing amidst the love triangle dilemma. Mid-stairway necking sessions coz "someone's coming" (my favorite kind!) and "Hands on the door!" ftw!

As voraciously as I lapped up her novellas, Alexandra Vasti's traditionally published works have been a bit of a struggle for me. The plot goes sideways in last quarter of the book - there's some attempt at half baked espionage plots, and some underdeveloped parental trauma -that take away from the real pressing obstacles in the happily ever after. I'd pay good money to see a heart to heart talk between the trio - Lydia, Davis, Arthur. But alas, the author's preference for riotous plotlines over real emotional beats stops this book from being one of the all time greats of HR.

Received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Griffin and NG.

Something I absolutely love about Alexandra's books is how much research goes into them! She adds in real details from real books, events, and people to her stories and it's astonishing how much thought goes into these!

This was a fun one. Lydia is a painfully shy heiress and see her gain her confidence and work through her insecurities was beautiful.

Arthur is like a big ole teddy bear. He's a little scruffy in the outside but has the biggest heart. I loved seeing how vulnerable each of them were as they pretended to be married.

There was an overarching storyline of suspense/action/mystery as well that really made this one interesting. And the authors note at the end describing the details she pulled from history to intertwine in this storyline was great!

Following Ne’er Duke Well last summer, Alexandra Vasti is back with the second book in her Belvoir’s Library trilogy, Earl Crush. Wallflower and heiress Lydia Hope-Wallace has been secretly writing radical political pamphlets for years, and has been corresponding with a like-minded Scottish earl. She’s now shown up at his estate in Scotland to propose a marriage of convenience… only to find that the man she’s been writing to is NOT the earl, but his missing brother. Arthur (the true earl) is as surprised as she is, and soon, Lydia is roped into tracking down his brother—and finding a new flame of love along the way.

Why I Chose This Book:
I loved Ne’er Duke Well, and I’ve been excited to continue the Belvoir’s Library trilogy ever since. Lydia is socially awkward and politically progressive, two qualities I think we have in common. And her romance with a Scottish earl—with themes of stolen identity, preventing mayhem, and a marriage of convenience (or fake marriage!)—was equally captivating. Earl Crush looked like it would be a riot!

What I Liked:
- Lydia is shy and socially anxious… but brave in the face of real danger
- Arthur is also an introvert who keeps to himself
- Zebras!
- Tracking down the missing brother who posed as Arthur, Earl of Strathrannoch
- Sibling relationships
- Marriage of convenience?
- Fake marriage?
- Progressive politics of the Regency era
- The epilogue! Swoon!

Final Thoughts
Earl Crush is a lot of fun, with mystery and mayhem abounding from start to finish. I liked getting to see two shy characters find love despite the chaotic situation they’ve been thrust into. It was also a joy to read about their relationships with their respective brothers, tumultuous as they may be. The Belvoir’s Library trilogy has been wonderful so far, and I’m excited to read the final book, Ladies in Hating, later this year.