This delightful regency rom-com has two of the most lovable main characters. We first meet a very anxiety ridden Lydia making huge life decisions. Her storyline growth is worth the read alone. But then we meet gruff yet sweet Arthur. Reading their development was a joy. Along with some twists in the story I wasn’t expecting, some first class tension, and side characters I loved Earl Crush was a quick and enjoyable read.

Earl Crush starts three years after Ne'er Duke Well and follows Selina's best friend Lydia Hope-Wallace as she runs off to Scotland to propose a marriage of Convenience to a struggling Earl Strathronnach she's been exchanging letters with for years. However, the Earl whom answers the door has no bloody idea who Lydia is and what letters she's talking about. What follows this misunderstanding is joyful and steamy and a ton of hijinks as Lydia and Arthur try to figure out why Arthur's brother lied to Lydia and used her via letters.

I'm not sure I have the words to adequately explain how Earl Crush is one of the most romantic books I've ever read but this isn't an exaggeration. Truly, simply put, this is one of the best love stories I've had the pleasure of reading.

There's something special about Alexandra's writing. From the first word to the last, I was fully immersed and came out at the end of it just so satisfied and happy and wishing I could re-read this again for the first time.

The epigraphs. Some of the most romantic declarations of love I've ever seen on paper. Some of the funniest, too (Selina and condoms, I chortled). The epilogue had me weeping in its simple depiction of how much they love each other.

This story of full of small moments that breathe life into the ways loving someone quietly and loudly and softly can mean everything. It showcases vulnerability in our fears and how deeply we can be affected by them without even realizing it. How when someone sees you and lifts you up and takes the time to combat your fears, you can do anything. Arthur and Lydia love each other so much. Her bravery and his immediate recognition of it, when everyone else sees only her shyness. His steadfast loyalty and kind heart when everyone else sees a brute. The ways they helped and healed each other.

I loved this book. Thank you SMP and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book shines with its richly developed characters and engaging writing. Arthur and Lydia’s chemistry is palpable, with Vasti’s expertly blending sharp wit and simmering tension. The romance unfolds with a delicious mix of conflict and attraction, making their interactions both captivating and emotionally resonant. The writing is sharp and evocative, enhancing the characters’ emotional journeys and the story’s overall charm. This book balances heartfelt moments with lively banter, creating a memorable and satisfying read.

Alexandra Vasti can always be counted on to write something that makes you think wow how is this so beautifully written, historically accurate, and insightful while also making me laugh so hard I alarmed people around me? If you are wondering what happens when you combine social anxiety with escaped zebras this book has your answer.

I loved all the characters in this book Lydia and Arthur are both incredibly lovable characters who struggle with confidence and knowing their value. I loved watching them support each other and learn to appreciate their strengths. I also loved Arthur's found family and getting to see more of Georgiana. I can't wait to read her story next.

Another one of my favorite things in this book was the fragments of letters we get to see at the beginning of each chapter. I love the humor they add and the little bits of insight they give into parts of the story we don't see. I also loved that the epilogue of this book was made up of letters. It gave a peak into different parts of the future without focusing only on one event.

If you love historical romance or a romcom and you haven't tried Alexandra Vasti yet you are missing out! I have created multiple new historical romance fans just by recommending that people try her books!