Love in Excess; Or, The Fatal Enquiry: A Novel in Three Parts

Published in 1719, 'Love in Excess; Or, The Fatal Enquiry' is a novel by Eliza Fowler Haywood that explores themes of love, ambition, and rivalry. The story follows Count D'Elmont, a reformed rake, as he navigates the affections of two women, Alovisa and Amena, in a post-war Paris filled with emotional turmoil and social intrigue. Notable for its portrayal of female desire and the complexities of romantic relationships, the novel was a bestseller of its time, reflecting the societal challenges of the early 18th century.