I Love an... Earl

by Sarah Bell

Dragged to her best friend’s Tudor-themed wedding at Hever Castle, Hayley Price figured she could handle a few costume changes and a little harmless role play.

She was not expecting a corset out for blood, a hostile hedge, or a persistently problematic peacock.

Paired with Tyler Ashford... insufferable, inconveniently attractive, and cast as the Earl... their mission is simple: pretend to be madly in love.

Easy, right? Stay in character. Convince the audience.

But as the weekend unravels into a full-blown comedy of errors and sparks begin to fly, their fake romance starts to feel dangerously real.

Complete with wardrobe malfunctions, rogue hair rollers, and a leading man who thinks the bathtub is a perfectly acceptable place to flirt.

Happily ever after definitely wasn’t in the script and enemies to lovers has never looked so undignified.

Genres: Romance

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 2, 2026

Reviews

[Jo H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book. It had me laughing from the first paragraph to the last. But I also fell head over heels in love with the characters. Hayley, the “uses humour as an emotional shield” female lead (with a borderline alcohol dependency), meets Tyler, the perfect on paper, slightly smug but charismatic “Earl”, at a fancy dress wedding. Will they end up hating each other or dating each other? It could literally go either way!

I was immediately invested. I wanted Hayley to drop her defences. I wanted Tyler to turn out to not be a “douche canoe”! And I wanted a Ross and Rachel worthy ending.

It was fun, full of energy, full of romance, and kept me belly laughing throughout. Sarah has a fantastic writing style, effortless wit and is guaranteed to have even the grumpiest of people smiling! If you’re looking for a lighthearted, enemies to lovers, laugh-out-loud romcom, THIS is the book for you.

I will recommend this book, near and far, to anyone who will listen, until the cows come home, because it actually made my weekend!

[Nightboundpages || Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
I Love an….Earl by Sarah Bell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Described by the author as having a 1 chilli, Baby Spice energy and being a palate cleanser after emotional damage, I Love an… Earl is a short romantic comedy full of mishaps, banter and yearning.

Guys, this was such a FUN read! From unrestrained boobs to toppled cheese towers and a hedge named Derek, this story had me laughing the whole way through. The chemistry and banter between Hayley and Tyler is both hilarious and sweet. And the YEARNING!!

Special mention to Peacock, this man is hilarious and I need more of his story please and thank you. Also Helen can go jump in a lake. Five stars!

If you love a fast paced, fun, fluffy romance be sure to pre-order I Love an…Earl from Amazon, it releases 2nd June 2026!

[_bookish_book_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This rom-com had me struggling at the beginning. I couldn't get over how hard it tried to be funny, and the FMC felt very much like a classic early-00s rom-com heroine. I was honestly close to DNFing it.

But I'm so glad I kept reading because with every chapter, it got better and better. The emotional depth started to shine through, and I finally found myself connecting with the FMC and rooting for her.

It is a lighthearted, funny, feel-good romance with plenty of charm, give this one a try! It may take a little time to find its rhythm, but the payoff is worth it. I think a lot of romance readers will enjoy this sweet and entertaining story.

[Cathriona Kotze · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Love an Earl" is an absolute gem of a romantic comedy that takes readers on an enchanting adventure set in the stunning backdrop of Hever Castle. The story centers around Hayley Price, who reluctantly attends her best friend’s Tudor-themed wedding, grumbling about everything from the era to the cumbersome dress code. But what starts as a chore quickly spirals into a series of hilarious misadventures, largely thanks to the charmingly insufferable Tyler Ashford, who plays the Earl.

From the get-go, the writing style sets a playful tone that’s hard to resist. Hayley’s relatable and witty character drew me in right away; her sarcasm made her not just endearing but also incredibly fun to follow on her journey. The chaotic situations they find themselves in—like a corset that seems to have a mind of its own and an annoying co-star that brings out Hayley’s worst—add a delightful flair to the narrative.

The chemistry between Hayley and Tyler is electric, starting with their bickering and evolving into something much deeper as they pretend to be madly in love for the wedding festivities. The "enemies to lovers" trope is executed perfectly here, blending humor with genuine emotional moments that showcase vulnerability and unexpected feelings.

That said, I did feel a slight longing for more depth in certain areas. While the comedic elements shine brightly, I would have loved to see more moments that deepen the connection between Hayley and Tyler. The plot twists felt a bit abrupt, leaving me wanting a clearer development of their relationship.

Overall, "I Love an Earl" is a delightful reminder that sometimes the best stories unfold when you least expect them. It’s a whimsical read filled with charm, laughter, and romantic sparks—perfect for anyone looking to escape into a world of fun, lighthearted adventures. I highly recommend it for fans of romantic comedies!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Arin Hawthorne · Rating 2 out of 5]

The main couple have no romantic chemistry and even less chemistry as enemies. The FMC often tells us "he's hot and I'm thinking about him romantically," but she doesn't react to this feeling at all. She doesn't feel heat or become awkward, nor does she see red and become ballistic. She just sits there and goes "he's pretty."

The main male is just as bland. The work outright tells us he's the black sheep of his family because he's super cool and sweet and kind, and to the author's credit, he does actually commit random acts of kindness (so why did we have to be told?), but then we don't really get to see how this makes him a black sheep. He was still invited to the wedding and even paired with the bride's bestie. And no one seems to react to him in any sort of disgust. He wants the uninteresting benefits of being the black sheep of the family, but none of the intriguing consequences.

I DNF'd about 50% through.

But there is a lot of mechanical skill on display here. The author does have a quite nice command of the English language, and you'll never feel lost while reading (unfortunately, sometimes things are explained to you like you're a toddler, too). I didn't spot a single typo or grammatical mistake, which is a feat even many traditionally published books with a team of editors can't claim. I wouldn't write off the entire author by any means.

But for this story, it unfortunately commits a fatal sin that makes the genuinely good structure not matter: despite things happening all the time, it manages to be boring.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Morally_Gray_Nola · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading I LOVE AN . . . EARL, I will be gobsmacked if it isn’t picked up for a rom-com on the big or small screen—it has THAT much appeal. This might be author Sarah Bell’s debut—yes I said DEBUT—offering, but it sure reads like she’s an old pro. The author’s wit is so bitingly quick, you’d think there’s Pronghorn antelope in her family tree somewhere—wait, they’re American sooo . . . at any rate ILa…E is SO incredibly funny! BUT, and here’s where she shows her mastery in this art, Hayley’s character projects ‘comic’ to hide her loneliness and pain. And Tyler? Well, he’s hiding something maybe even bigger behind his sexy, confident swagger.
The craziest bit about how much I loveLoveLOVE ILa…E? I’m a dirty bird. As such, I love dirty bird ‘things’. This is so clean—barring the language—you could feed your granny her favorite biscuits on it! I could absolutely picture myself sitting amongst the author and a gaggle of others, having the time of my life listening to her babble on about life. *Once you’ve read her intro and author’s note you’ll feel the same. Knowing she’s the one everyone gravitates towards at parties. Makes me wonder how much of Hayley she based on herself.
*** Recommended ***

MMC:
✨Tyler
FMC:
✨Hayley
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Book 1: Eden Era
Tropes:
👉contemporary comedy romance
👉Tudor themed wedding romance
👉fake relationship
👉enemies to lovers
👉he falls first
Triggers:
💥profanity
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bookishdays · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this charming and lively story, we follow a themed wedding weekend through Hayley’s perspective. Her best friend has chosen to get married in a grand Manor, where every guest must dress in full Regency era attire and take on specific roles throughout the event. Hayley, with her bold personality, sharp tongue, and slightly clumsy nature, finds herself swept up in the experience, especially when she’s paired with Tyler, her designated partner for the festivities, whose charm proves hard to resist.

This is a thoroughly entertaining read. The story unfolds over just a few days, making it a quick and engaging book filled with a series of comical, almost over-the-top situations. Despite its fast pace and humorous tone, it also offers sweet and romantic moments that balance the narrative beautifully. The characters are one of the book’s strongest elements. Hayley and Tyler are delightful, but the supporting cast adds even more charm, particularly the unforgettable master of ceremonies, Peacock, who brings an extra layer of humor and personality to the story.

Overall, this is a fun, light-hearted read that blends romance, comedy, and a touch of theatrical flair into an enjoyable and memorable weekend adventure.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amy M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so freaking funny. Not haha that's cute funny, I'm talking ugly laugh crying funny. Laugh so hard you end up shaking the bed and accidentally wake up your partner funny and you can't apologize because you are laughing so hard that you can't breathe.

Hayley is such a caricature (complementary) in a slapstick, but believable way. Is everything that happens completely over the top? Absolutely. Is it so far fetched that it isn't believable? Not in the slightest. Every thing that happens had me nodding along thinking "girl I've been there" or "it's not just me." Nip slip in a Tudor dress? Not shocking because I always wondered how much tape they had to use in Bridgerton. Fish foam in the lap? Who hasn't accidentally flung food off their plate? Everything was so relatable despite the outlandish situation.

I didn't love the Helen portion of the book, frankly because it made it more serious and less funny, but I understand why the character was necessary. Tyler and the relationship were fine, but the humor is what caught me and kept me reading.

Thank you to BookSirens and Sarah Bell for the free eARC.

[Liz Sturg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC read from NetGalley. I love this book!! It gave me everything in a short novella type! I wanted more!! Like did they get married, what happened to Helen and Karl?? I loved the banter the quick wit of the FMC and just the swoon worthy of the MMC. How he had fallen for the FMC six months before and she didn't even recall the interaction but it was enough for him to send his relationship and look forward to seeing the FMC again in a Tudor style wedding. I loved Peacock and I wished he had a little bit more of the role of getting the FMC to have a higher self esteem other than thinking she is the walking joke of the wedding weekend. The MMC should have stood his ground a little more aggressively when his ex was being mean to the FMC or belittling her. He just apologized but he saw that the FMC was hurt about it. Overall enjoyed the book and I finished it in one day!

[Sarah Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay wow. I don’t even know where to begin with this. My lovely new friend Sarah wrote a book and of course as any good friend should, I said I’d read it. Sarah, as it turns out, is a beautiful writer. When I started reading I wasn’t sure whether I was going to enjoy this, simply because of the corsets and Earls, but man was I wrong. It was so different and fun! And the story was set at Hever Castle, which is a castle I visited many many times back home over the years! It made me feel nostalgic and I loved it. The characters were equally as amazing. I love a man written by a woman! I am amazed that this is Sarah’s DEBUT novel because it feels like she’s been doing this all her life. I highly recommend this book and I am so proud of my new friend! Amazing work.
“He’s walking thirst-trap hot.”
“Okay, Bridget Jones,” he pants. “Let’s pause the solo concert and existential meltdown.”

[Rebecca]

If you enjoy romantic comedies with the feel of Bridget Jones, then this book is for you. Funny, kind, and packed with laugh-out-loud moments, it is perfect for anyone that wants to enjoy some romance with some casual, comical chaos thrown in.

Dual character narration was an unexpected feature that I’ve not experienced in many other stories, but I enjoyed hearing both perspectives, adding extra depth to the story.

It’s shocking that this is the author’s debut novel as the story flowed with ease and wit, drawing me in for ‘just one more chapter’ each night, resulting in at least four more read, and as a mum of a one year old, not many books are currently worth my precious awake time before bed. ‘I Love . . . an Earl’ definitely deserved my time and I am looking forward to the next one in the series! I highly recommend!

[Alexis · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had a really hard time liking this book, it was almost a DNF. I kept reading thinking that some character development or chemistry would emerge (fingers crossed for slow-burn), but that did not materialize.

The idea was cute, a modern retelling of historical romance via a ren-faire style regency wedding in current times. Sadly, that did not live up to its potential. Our FMC is a classic "not like other girls" she is ever so quirky and clumsy and tragically backstoried. MMC has no discernable personality other than his insta-love for this manic pixie dream hot wreck. I did not feel the chemistry, the plot was mostly complaining about uncomfortable dresses and thinking "he's hot" while doing nothing about it.

Given other reviews, this is not the overall rating for this book, so it may be someone's cup of tea. It was just a miss for me.

[Romantic Reads and Such · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be a hoot. Very Bridget Jones’s Diary, with a clumsy, trouble-prone heroine and a more staid hero who is charmed by her. Based on Goodreads, it looks like Bell is a new author and she’s got lots of things going for her. There’s entertaining humor and banter, also sweetness as Hayley gets to know Tyler even better. Could there have been more depth? Probably. Were there scenes missing that would have enhanced the story? Sure. I would love to get a better understanding of why Tyler is the black sheep & some of his history and see some more interactions of both of them with their friends. But even with a few plot holes, I was overall just as charmed as Tyler. And I’m definitely going to be looking out for more from this author.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Kimberly S45 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+⭐️ ⭐️Amazing⭐️

5+stars for I Love an Earl by Sarah Bell. Absolutely loved the comedy, romance and cheese!🧀

Hayley is the maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding-the caveat is it’s a cosplay Tudor theme. So everyone has to play a part.

Tyler, the grooms cousin is the love interest and weekend partner with Hayley.

Hayley is a hot mess (in a good way) she gets into a few pickles, especially with cheese! Tyler the playboy has a few interesting moments himself 🥰.

Writers debut novel, but definitely doesn’t feel like it. It’s smart, funny, and brilliant. Definitely could not put down ⭐️

Releases June 2,2026 and I recommend highly.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Aimee Beloved Nerdy Auntie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah Bell’s I’m in Love With an…Earl was such a fun surprise for me. Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this gifted copy. All opinions are mine. This is a fast-paced rom com with a very slow burn romance that had me way more emotionally invested than I expected. The banter between the two main characters was honestly one of my favorite parts. It was witty, flirty, and genuinely funny without feeling forced. I laughed a lot throughout this book, but it also had some real heart underneath all the comedy. The chemistry kept building in the best way and made the payoff feel worth it. If you’re looking for an entertaining, feel-good romance with humor, charm, and a slow burn you can sink into, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Anna B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has got to be one of the best romcoms I’ve read in a long time. Hilarious, engaging, and just plain fun.

I absolutely loved the main characters. Their banter and the push-pull attraction between them was written perfectly. Along with this the hijinks, and outright wrong timing of Hayley’s numerous awkward accidents had me smiling throughout.

The storyline of a wedding party participating in historical costume, including dialogue, assigned partners, and an MC named Peacock — and looking like one — was unique and kept me interested in what was going to happen next.

There is a small bit of innuendo that I usually don’t enjoy but everything else in the out weighed it and made this a book I would recommend.

[Mihir Nagda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A huge thank you to Sarah Bell and Crown & Dove Publishing for sending me an ARC of I Love An… Earl! 🫶🏻

This book was such a cozy, fun-filled read from start to finish. The banter between Hayley and Tyler was absolutely adorable, and their chemistry? SO good. I honestly haven’t had this much fun reading a book in a while, but this one completely changed that for me.

And please… can someone get me a Derek the Hedge? 😭😂

If you love Forced Proximity and Enemies-to-Lovers, you’re definitely going to enjoy this one. I can’t remember the last time a book made me laugh this much.

Honestly, I loved every bit of it. 💕

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1 of Eden Era. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.

'Complete with wardrobe malfunctions, rogue hair rollers, and a leading man who thinks the bathtub is a perfectly acceptable place to flirt.
Happily ever after definitely wasn’t in the script and enemies to lovers has never looked so undignified.'

The characters carried the story and they were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and expertly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MJ Perkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Love an...Earl" healed part of my soul from the emotional damage of other books and life in general. This book was easy to read, clever, funny, comforting, and exactly everything you want from a romantic comedy. Bell is quick-witted, her references and metaphors had me cackling ("The air is heavy with roses and sweat, like Yankee Candle's latest scent: Heatstroke at a Costume Party.") She is an expert at building tension -- yes, I yelled "KISS ALREADY" several times in my empty apartment -- and she gives you the satisfying ending you deserve. I've found my new comfort read. Not only will you not want to get the hours you spent reading it back, you'll wish you had a time machine so you could play them on repeat.

[Cathy Donaldson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a pure laugh out loud, real loud, story. Hayley accidentally provides slapstick comedy to a weekend wedding party time and time again. Tyler, the Prince Charming, is not put off by any of the incidents but seems completely charmed by Hayley. As the story evolves you see her move from harmful self-talk to a strengthened self-concept and a realization that Tyler really sees the real her. Of course as the story moves along you discover more about Tyler and the real reason he is at this weekend wedding. Makes for a great love story with a happy ending.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I plowed through "I Loved an... Earl". It's a thoroughly light and hilarious read. I for one would hate to find myself in Hayley's shoes - a themed wedding with required guest participations sounds like my worst nightmare. And I found Hayley surprisingly sympathetic. She reminded me greatly of a friend who also has self-esteem issues, and uses humor to cope. It can be hard sometimes to see my beautiful friend, and know she doesn't see herself the same way I do, so I was happy when Hayley finally finds her self-confidence, and starts to trust in Tyler's feelings.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Crown & Dove Publishing for a free eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

[AC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t laughed so much reading a book in a while, really loved it 💜 This book was such a fun mix of historical romance charm, banter, and emotional tension

The chemistry between the MCs was definitely the highlight for me. Their interactions had that perfect push-and-pull dynamic where half the conversations feel one step away from either an argument or a kiss 😂

I also really enjoyed the lighter, playful tone throughout the story, overall, the pacing kept the story feeling fun and engaging.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy. "I Love an...Earl" is a fun, quick rom-com with plenty of banter and shenanigans. She is curvy, deflects uncomfortable emotions with humor, and has a slight dependency on caffeine and alcohol. So she is a very familiar and relatable character. Her love interest is introduced as the "black sheep" of his family, which doesn't speak well for them, since he is considerate, kind, and always willing to help the other characters. While at times, it felt a bit like I was reading the description of a sitcom episode where the development was described to the reader rather than letting the reader experience it, for a novella, "I Love an...Earl" has an ambitious plot that it carries off rather well. This is a delightfully fun romp with plenty of sass.

[Jo B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I love an earl was a laugh out loud hidden gem that I didn’t know I needed. It was funny and witty and wildly entertaining through the ups and downs of the storyline. I would have given 5 stars had it gone into a little more detail about the characters and what led them to their destiny and maybe a little more build up to the plot.

[Grace Liu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so grateful to receive an ARC copy of the book from the author.

It’s such a fun read. I laughed and snorted all the through the end. It’s been a while since I laughed so much reading a book.

It’s a book that has everything you want in a love story. Fake relationship, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, he falls first, AND…. Derek the hedge!

It’s a page turner for me. The only reason I didn’t rate it 5 star was because it was a bit too short. I needed more of this!

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew I’d love this book before I even finished the first chapter. It’s full of belly laughs and charm. Hayley and Tyler are both delightful, and Peacock is a scene-stealer (fingers crossed that he makes appearances in other books in the series!)

A fun romp for when you are looking for something light and humorous.

I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Meghan Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. A perfect summer read. I laughed a lot with this one. It was the first book by Sarah Bell and I can tell it won't be her last. Hayley and Tylers story had me laughing from the start and it was a book I had to finish in one sitting. Wait til you meet the peacock. A funny light hearted summer read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love an Earl was a laugh out loud hidden gem that I didn't know I needed. It was funny and witty and wildly entertaining through ups and downs of the storyline. I would have given 5 starts had it gone into a little more detail about the characters and what led them to their destiny and maybe a little more build up to the plot.

[Bree Penfold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely devoured this book! It's a quick and easy read but even those generally take me months to finish. This took me only four weeks to read, which is a record for me!

I loved everything about it: the cheeky humour, the settings and concept, the characters, all brilliant.

If you're looking for a fun read that isn't too heavy or serious, set in modern times with some Bridgerton feels... this is it!

[Charlie Laila Lipscomb · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a book makes me feel all the feels and gives me such joy while reading. I had a road trip and finished the book in less than four hours because I simply could not stop reading it.

Trust me when I say This book was AMAZING and I cannot wait to read more.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.