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Lords in Disguise #5
Earl Lessons
He never wanted a title
Fresh off the battlefield, Captain David Ellsworth has returned home to discover the shocking and unwelcome news that he’s the new Earl of Elmwood. Though David had no idea he was in line for a title, he and his sister must now navigate the snark-infested waters of the London ton. He knows how to be a soldier, an officer, and a brother, but he hasn’t a clue how to be an earl. David will need all the help he can get. Even if it comes from the undeniably beautiful woman...who is the darling of the world he detests.
She never wanted a husband
The younger sister of a marquess, Lady Annabelle Bellham moves through elegant ballrooms with the ease of a lioness traversing the jungle. She’s the most elusive belle at every ball, and gentlemen have long placed bets on which lucky man will finally win her hand. But Annabelle has no intention of falling prey to a man’s charms. She's seen the destruction wrought by marriage and is dead set on avoiding a similar fate.
But here they are…
Thankfully, Annabelle’s older brother hasn’t pressured her to take a husband—yet. Which is why she feels obliged to agree when he asks her a favor: To teach the newly minted Earl of Elmwood how to act in Society. Still, the task shouldn’t be too difficult. All Annabelle must do is spend countless hours in the company of a handsome, brooding ex-soldier—who’s making her question every rule she’s set for herself. She and David have nothing in common except a fiery passion and some highly inconvenient feelings…could it be enough?
Fresh off the battlefield, Captain David Ellsworth has returned home to discover the shocking and unwelcome news that he’s the new Earl of Elmwood. Though David had no idea he was in line for a title, he and his sister must now navigate the snark-infested waters of the London ton. He knows how to be a soldier, an officer, and a brother, but he hasn’t a clue how to be an earl. David will need all the help he can get. Even if it comes from the undeniably beautiful woman...who is the darling of the world he detests.
She never wanted a husband
The younger sister of a marquess, Lady Annabelle Bellham moves through elegant ballrooms with the ease of a lioness traversing the jungle. She’s the most elusive belle at every ball, and gentlemen have long placed bets on which lucky man will finally win her hand. But Annabelle has no intention of falling prey to a man’s charms. She's seen the destruction wrought by marriage and is dead set on avoiding a similar fate.
But here they are…
Thankfully, Annabelle’s older brother hasn’t pressured her to take a husband—yet. Which is why she feels obliged to agree when he asks her a favor: To teach the newly minted Earl of Elmwood how to act in Society. Still, the task shouldn’t be too difficult. All Annabelle must do is spend countless hours in the company of a handsome, brooding ex-soldier—who’s making her question every rule she’s set for herself. She and David have nothing in common except a fiery passion and some highly inconvenient feelings…could it be enough?
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2021
About the author
Valerie Bowman
64 books1,601 followersValerie Bowman is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance.
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 7, 2023
It was all well and good and honestly great until the black mail 📈📉📉📉📉 and then she Chekhov’s sex lessoned it too right at the end 😭 why have there been only like one sex scene in this past few books?? Jailable offense when the rest had a few each???
VALERIE LOOK ME IN THE EYES EXPLICIT SEX IS FUN
VALERIE LOOK ME IN THE EYES EXPLICIT SEX IS FUN
January 3, 2023
2.5
Just a few notes.
- I liked their first meeting. I wouldn’t have minded an enemies to lovers romance but it soon became a friends to lovers romance, which worked better for these two characters.
- I liked reading about the lessons because I learned a few new things about proper etiquette.
- This book can stand alone, however, the couples from the first three books do make an appearance towards the last few chapters for their triple wedding ceremony! 🤗 Plus, the hero, David, is brother to Marianne who was the heroine in book 3. The heroine, Annabelle, is sister to Beau/Bell who was the hero in book 3. So Marianne and Bell have more page time than the other two couples from previous books.
That’s all!
Just a few notes.
- I liked their first meeting. I wouldn’t have minded an enemies to lovers romance but it soon became a friends to lovers romance, which worked better for these two characters.
- I liked reading about the lessons because I learned a few new things about proper etiquette.
- This book can stand alone, however, the couples from the first three books do make an appearance towards the last few chapters for their triple wedding ceremony! 🤗 Plus, the hero, David, is brother to Marianne who was the heroine in book 3. The heroine, Annabelle, is sister to Beau/Bell who was the hero in book 3. So Marianne and Bell have more page time than the other two couples from previous books.
That’s all!
December 13, 2021
I could see where the story was going, but it didn't matter to me. I loved this lovely story. I loved the lessons Annabelle was giving David. An enjoyable and entertaining read. Awesome. 5☆
October 26, 2021
I enjoyed David and Annabelle's story, even though most of the situations were pretty predictable. I also have a vague idea of who the next characters in this series might be....
La storia di David e di Annabelle mi ha divertito, anche se la maggior parte delle situazioni era piuttosto prevedibile. Ho anche una vaga idea di chi potrebbero essere i prossimi personaggi di questa serie....
I received from the Author a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
La storia di David e di Annabelle mi ha divertito, anche se la maggior parte delle situazioni era piuttosto prevedibile. Ho anche una vaga idea di chi potrebbero essere i prossimi personaggi di questa serie....
I received from the Author a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
March 19, 2026
3.75⭐️ God I really enjoyed this one in the beginning. The lessons were everything. I loved that Annabelle was able to relax with him and teach him all about being an Earl and a respectable gentleman of the ton. I loved it. Up until the blackmail… because it felt like her character completely switched up. She seemed like this strong independent woman. I couldn’t believe she let Murdock control her like that. I didn’t understand why she didn’t just go to David and tell him what happened… why would marrying David be worse than having Murdock court her and force her to dance with him and carriage around the park. I couldn’t understand it. Or why didn’t she tell her brother once he returned. Doesn’t she realize he wouldn’t let ANYTHING stop him from marrying his woman. These men DO NOT care about reputations. And Annabelle was not going to ruin their families reputation. Especially if they could have exposed Murdock and everything he was doing. After the blackmail started, I felt like David and Annabelle had a lot of resentment towards one another, and they lost a lot of trust they built. Watching David watch her be courted hurt. A lot. I just wish she could have told him sooner and didn’t let him believe she would actually want to marry Murdock. And I loved the plot with Annabelle’s dad. I think it could have been so sweet if Annabelle shared that with him. I wish we could have seen that instead of Beau telling him. But I did enjoy seeing Beau realize that Annabelle wasn’t that shielded from it all. Overall I did really like the book. I loved watching her teach him how to act properly and watch him fumble it so hard. It was a fun time. And watching the characters I loved from before was fun too. I also must add that this narrator KILLS ME…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2021
4.5-5 Stars! This book was great! Every book I’ve read in this series is great (I only missed book 4, ‘Save a Horse, Ride a Viscount’). This was book 5 in the ‘Footman’s Club’ series and can be read as a standalone. I read the first 3 books in the series awhile back and missed book 4 so I needed a refresh of the previous books and everything slowly came back to me while reading this book.
Annabelle and David’s story is full of suspense, heat, drama, scheming, some sexy times and plenty of humor with an HEA ending! I highly recommend not only this book but this series! Valerie Bowman NEVER disappoints!
*I received this book at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
Annabelle and David’s story is full of suspense, heat, drama, scheming, some sexy times and plenty of humor with an HEA ending! I highly recommend not only this book but this series! Valerie Bowman NEVER disappoints!
*I received this book at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
November 4, 2021
David was completely lost in the new role he would play for the rest of his life, the role of Earl of Elmwood. Now he and his sister would have to deal with Ton's obnoxious people. But for that, he would need all the help he could get. So when Annabelle Bellham - beautiful, but who represented everything that David hated among the nobles - becomes his teacher, neither of them was prepared for the passion they both carried within them, and their meeting becomes fatal .
A novel that is enjoyable to read, and that can be read as stand alone.
Another big hit from Ms Bowman.
5 stars
A novel that is enjoyable to read, and that can be read as stand alone.
Another big hit from Ms Bowman.
5 stars
October 24, 2021
Earl Lessons by Valerie Bowman is book 5 in The Footmen's Club Series. This is the story of Annabelle Bellham and Captain David Ellsworth, now the Earl of Elmwood. I did feel this could be a standalone book if you wish to do so. David has returned from service to find that he is now a Earl, which has him a fish out of water. Annabelle has spinsterhood in her sites with no wish to marry. But when her brother who is a Marquess ask her a favor to help David, she agrees. But this puts her in closely working with David and she starts to see that maybe she was wrong about love. Really enjoyed this book and this is a great series. Highly recommend Ms. Bowman's writing.
October 25, 2024
Ojito con Anabelle que se la pasó rechazando a David todo el tiempo 🧐
February 14, 2022
Very well written though I cried several times. Loved Annabelle's character and David was so sweet and silly. Together they make a formidable pair. Looking forward to more in the series
November 7, 2021
I have adored every book in this series and this one included! We meet David briefly in another book from the series but it can be read as a standalone. When he suddenly is granted an Earldom he is forced to accept lessons from Lady Annabelle. Annabelle is set against marriage after seeing how destructive it can be but society has deemed her to desirable to not marry. As she continues to fight off the men of the marriage mart she learns that David is so singularly different. As their passion grows so does the risk. A really great read with a fierce and kind main characters, a slew of secondary characters, and of course a dastardly villain.
February 2, 2022
*3/5*
I missed the fun of the first three books.. although the premise of this could have been a riot but something felt like it was missing.
I missed the fun of the first three books.. although the premise of this could have been a riot but something felt like it was missing.
August 16, 2024
**Trigger Warnings Below**
Heroine: Annabelle Bellham, 23. Sister of the Marquess of Bellingham.
Hero: David Ellsworth, 29. Earl of Elwood. His sister is engaged to Annabelle’s brother.
Date: 1815 (prologue = 1797)
How they meet: David has recently unexpectedly inherited his title; he had been serving in the military. At a dinner party, he sneaks outside to hide for a bit and Annabelle is already out of the veranda. She accuses him of following her and he assures her he has no interest in her. They have a testy exchange.
What happens: David needs someone to give him etiquette lessons so he can fit in with society. His sister’s betrothed arranges for his mother and sister to provide the lessons. When David arrives, he is shocked to learn that his new teacher is Annabelle, the woman from the veranda the night before. He tries to bow out of the lessons, but ultimately they decide to make a fresh start with one another. She learns that he hopes to marry for love and he learns that she has no interest in marriage at all.
Trigger Warnings:
Verdict: While I liked the hero, I didn’t really care for the heroine. I didn’t like how she led the hero on only to reject him more than once. Granted, she had suffered a traumatic childhood, but this author didn’t delve too deep into the emotional side of trauma, so she seemed more shallow than anything else. Also, this story felt like it was lacking the author’s usual humor. This book overlaps in time with another couple’s story--The Valet Who Loved Me (the hero’s sister and the heroine’s brother), and while not absolutely necessary, it is probably good to have read that one first.
Steam level: Steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
Heroine: Annabelle Bellham, 23. Sister of the Marquess of Bellingham.
Hero: David Ellsworth, 29. Earl of Elwood. His sister is engaged to Annabelle’s brother.
Date: 1815 (prologue = 1797)
How they meet: David has recently unexpectedly inherited his title; he had been serving in the military. At a dinner party, he sneaks outside to hide for a bit and Annabelle is already out of the veranda. She accuses him of following her and he assures her he has no interest in her. They have a testy exchange.
What happens: David needs someone to give him etiquette lessons so he can fit in with society. His sister’s betrothed arranges for his mother and sister to provide the lessons. When David arrives, he is shocked to learn that his new teacher is Annabelle, the woman from the veranda the night before. He tries to bow out of the lessons, but ultimately they decide to make a fresh start with one another. She learns that he hopes to marry for love and he learns that she has no interest in marriage at all.
Trigger Warnings:
Verdict: While I liked the hero, I didn’t really care for the heroine. I didn’t like how she led the hero on only to reject him more than once. Granted, she had suffered a traumatic childhood, but this author didn’t delve too deep into the emotional side of trauma, so she seemed more shallow than anything else. Also, this story felt like it was lacking the author’s usual humor. This book overlaps in time with another couple’s story--The Valet Who Loved Me (the hero’s sister and the heroine’s brother), and while not absolutely necessary, it is probably good to have read that one first.
Steam level: Steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
November 20, 2021
A SOLID 3.5 STARS!
I WAS CAPTIVATED. THE CONVERSATIONS WERE SO ENGAGING, I THINK I'VE NEVER BEEN MORE IN LOVE WITH A COUPLE!
DAVID was such a refreshing and captivating male lead. I adored the power imbalance between him and Annabelle - as in - David recently came into his inheritance as an Earl after living his entire life as a commoner, and then a soldier who served in Her Majesty's army to fight for England. All his life, he believed his father was only a common man who fell in love with his wife. Who knew his father was actually an Earl's son, and heir. So now David's sister Marianne is getting married to one of the ton's elusive bachelor and David himself needs to navigate the waters of society. SO MANY RULES TO LEARN! SO LITTLE TIME! He's thankful when his future brother-in-law's family offers to teach him the rules of etiquette and turn him into a gentleman.
The story opens with him escaping from a party and having a much needed cigar in the darkened corners of the garden when the most beautiful angel appears, only to give him the worst impression of society ladies ever. She was downright rude and they started off on the wrong foot. Little does he know, SHE'S his future sister-in-law AND his TUTOR! Once they've set aside that little misunderstanding, the both of them were rather perfect for each other in every way in which they want their partners to be.
ANNABELLE gave the impression of a rude snob in the beginning when she startled David in the dark and stole a puff of his cigar from him. Little does he know, she's tired of being chased around like a piece of prized hog for six Seasons and she's made up her mind never to marry. Why? Because she's tethered to the past of her abusive father who always came home drunk and took it out on his wife and son. Though Annabelle never met the end of her father's fist, those rowdy nights imprinted themselves on her mind and she knows she'll never want to relish her freedom or rights to a husband - because husbands own their wives. But finally, she meets a man who checks all the boxes she's looking for IF she were hunting for a husband. He's handsome, he actually deigns to know all her favourite things, he wants to know her opinion, and HE WANTS TO MARRY FOR LOVE!
I'll be frank, Annabelle was DAMNED ANNOYING towards the end when she wanted to be with David but without the tenterhooks of marriage. For once I felt sorry for the male lead for BEING USED, even if the feeling's mutual. And the way she was adamant on NOT accepting his proposal...it just really made me mad. Even if her brother and David calls her brave, I'd say otherwise. Even Annabelle knew she was a coward. BUT ALSO, I know FEAR can be a motivating and destructive emotion that easily ruins a person's confidence and life. So while I was frustrated with her, I'm also glad that she pulled her head out of her arse long enough to say she's sorry and marry the love of her life.
OVERALL Never A Dull Moment! I truly enjoyed the characters this time, and their genuine and sweet romance. My only complain? I wish the raunchy scenes were MORE. There was only one....and they didn't even get to achieve completion together. LOL! That one left me hanging. Otherwise, I would have given this a 4 stars if there was a fulfilling lovers' scene + not so annoying heroine at the end.
I WAS CAPTIVATED. THE CONVERSATIONS WERE SO ENGAGING, I THINK I'VE NEVER BEEN MORE IN LOVE WITH A COUPLE!
DAVID was such a refreshing and captivating male lead. I adored the power imbalance between him and Annabelle - as in - David recently came into his inheritance as an Earl after living his entire life as a commoner, and then a soldier who served in Her Majesty's army to fight for England. All his life, he believed his father was only a common man who fell in love with his wife. Who knew his father was actually an Earl's son, and heir. So now David's sister Marianne is getting married to one of the ton's elusive bachelor and David himself needs to navigate the waters of society. SO MANY RULES TO LEARN! SO LITTLE TIME! He's thankful when his future brother-in-law's family offers to teach him the rules of etiquette and turn him into a gentleman.
The story opens with him escaping from a party and having a much needed cigar in the darkened corners of the garden when the most beautiful angel appears, only to give him the worst impression of society ladies ever. She was downright rude and they started off on the wrong foot. Little does he know, SHE'S his future sister-in-law AND his TUTOR! Once they've set aside that little misunderstanding, the both of them were rather perfect for each other in every way in which they want their partners to be.
ANNABELLE gave the impression of a rude snob in the beginning when she startled David in the dark and stole a puff of his cigar from him. Little does he know, she's tired of being chased around like a piece of prized hog for six Seasons and she's made up her mind never to marry. Why? Because she's tethered to the past of her abusive father who always came home drunk and took it out on his wife and son. Though Annabelle never met the end of her father's fist, those rowdy nights imprinted themselves on her mind and she knows she'll never want to relish her freedom or rights to a husband - because husbands own their wives. But finally, she meets a man who checks all the boxes she's looking for IF she were hunting for a husband. He's handsome, he actually deigns to know all her favourite things, he wants to know her opinion, and HE WANTS TO MARRY FOR LOVE!
I'll be frank, Annabelle was DAMNED ANNOYING towards the end when she wanted to be with David but without the tenterhooks of marriage. For once I felt sorry for the male lead for BEING USED, even if the feeling's mutual. And the way she was adamant on NOT accepting his proposal...it just really made me mad. Even if her brother and David calls her brave, I'd say otherwise. Even Annabelle knew she was a coward. BUT ALSO, I know FEAR can be a motivating and destructive emotion that easily ruins a person's confidence and life. So while I was frustrated with her, I'm also glad that she pulled her head out of her arse long enough to say she's sorry and marry the love of her life.
OVERALL Never A Dull Moment! I truly enjoyed the characters this time, and their genuine and sweet romance. My only complain? I wish the raunchy scenes were MORE. There was only one....and they didn't even get to achieve completion together. LOL! That one left me hanging. Otherwise, I would have given this a 4 stars if there was a fulfilling lovers' scene + not so annoying heroine at the end.
April 2, 2025
4⭐️
It took me a little while to warm up to this book, but once I did, I was really invested. However, I felt like it lost steam toward the end—it built up nicely but then fizzled out.
I absolutely loved David. He was so sweet, caring, and a little naïve, but that only made him more endearing. Annabelle, on the other hand, was a bit wishy-washy for me. I understood her struggles, especially given the trauma she experienced, but she changed her mind a lot, which made it hard to fully connect with her.
Toward the end, things started to feel rushed, and I was really expecting a bigger payoff—especially with Murdoch. I thought he deserved a serious reckoning, but that never really happened. The whole blackmail plot was a huge deal, yet it was brushed off so casually at the end. Since it directly involved David, I expected more consequences, but instead, it felt overlooked.
Overall, this was my first book by Valerie, and I really enjoyed it. I see she has a lot of other books, and I’m excited to read more!
Summary for me
Captain David Ellsworth never expected to inherit a title, but after returning from war, he is stunned to learn he is now the Earl of Elmwood. Unfamiliar with the rules of high society, he and his sister must navigate the treacherous waters of the London ton. David is a soldier, not a nobleman, and he needs guidance—though he never imagined it would come from the one woman he can’t stand: Lady Annabelle Bellham.
Annabelle has spent years evading marriage, determined not to fall victim to the same fate that has trapped so many women before her. As the most sought-after belle of the season, gentlemen place bets on who will win her hand, but she has no intention of being claimed. That is, until her brother asks a favor she can’t refuse: tutoring the newly minted Earl of Elmwood in the ways of society.
What should have been a simple arrangement quickly turns complicated when Annabelle finds herself drawn to the brooding ex-soldier. David and Annabelle have nothing in common—except undeniable attraction and emotions that refuse to be ignored. Could the one thing they never wanted be exactly what they need?
It took me a little while to warm up to this book, but once I did, I was really invested. However, I felt like it lost steam toward the end—it built up nicely but then fizzled out.
I absolutely loved David. He was so sweet, caring, and a little naïve, but that only made him more endearing. Annabelle, on the other hand, was a bit wishy-washy for me. I understood her struggles, especially given the trauma she experienced, but she changed her mind a lot, which made it hard to fully connect with her.
Toward the end, things started to feel rushed, and I was really expecting a bigger payoff—especially with Murdoch. I thought he deserved a serious reckoning, but that never really happened. The whole blackmail plot was a huge deal, yet it was brushed off so casually at the end. Since it directly involved David, I expected more consequences, but instead, it felt overlooked.
Overall, this was my first book by Valerie, and I really enjoyed it. I see she has a lot of other books, and I’m excited to read more!
Summary for me
Captain David Ellsworth never expected to inherit a title, but after returning from war, he is stunned to learn he is now the Earl of Elmwood. Unfamiliar with the rules of high society, he and his sister must navigate the treacherous waters of the London ton. David is a soldier, not a nobleman, and he needs guidance—though he never imagined it would come from the one woman he can’t stand: Lady Annabelle Bellham.
Annabelle has spent years evading marriage, determined not to fall victim to the same fate that has trapped so many women before her. As the most sought-after belle of the season, gentlemen place bets on who will win her hand, but she has no intention of being claimed. That is, until her brother asks a favor she can’t refuse: tutoring the newly minted Earl of Elmwood in the ways of society.
What should have been a simple arrangement quickly turns complicated when Annabelle finds herself drawn to the brooding ex-soldier. David and Annabelle have nothing in common—except undeniable attraction and emotions that refuse to be ignored. Could the one thing they never wanted be exactly what they need?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2021
David is a new earl. He is a former heroic captain in the army. He grew up in a family of average people. His only remaining family member is his sister, Marianne. She is about to marry a Marquess. Both of them are now facing a life dealing with the upper classes. Both of them are trying to learn about the expectations of their new lives.
David is getting his tutoring from Annabelle. She is the sister of Marianne’s future husband. She is also a super star among debutantes in London. There are bets being made about whether she will choose a husband this year. Annabelle has stated more than once that she does not plan to marry. Many men have tried, so far none have been accepted.
Annabelle is beautiful. David is handsome. And after being exposed to one another for a great number of hours, they are beginning to become friends.
Annabelle has a history which has colored her opinion of marriage and men. David is not comfortable being forced to become a man who he does not respect. Both of them are intelligent and both of them are not the shallow people they continue to meet in the ton.
I am a huge fan of this series. I enjoyed each of the first four books. This one seemed to move very slowly with a lot of filler.
I liked David. He is a good and honorable man. Annabelle has begun to believe her own publicity. She knows she is one of the most beautiful woman in London as well as the most desired of all the debutantes. She is not always an easy woman to like.
Ms Bowman is a very talented author. She writes beautifully. I know that her next book will be one I love. I liked this one, but did not love it.
David is getting his tutoring from Annabelle. She is the sister of Marianne’s future husband. She is also a super star among debutantes in London. There are bets being made about whether she will choose a husband this year. Annabelle has stated more than once that she does not plan to marry. Many men have tried, so far none have been accepted.
Annabelle is beautiful. David is handsome. And after being exposed to one another for a great number of hours, they are beginning to become friends.
Annabelle has a history which has colored her opinion of marriage and men. David is not comfortable being forced to become a man who he does not respect. Both of them are intelligent and both of them are not the shallow people they continue to meet in the ton.
I am a huge fan of this series. I enjoyed each of the first four books. This one seemed to move very slowly with a lot of filler.
I liked David. He is a good and honorable man. Annabelle has begun to believe her own publicity. She knows she is one of the most beautiful woman in London as well as the most desired of all the debutantes. She is not always an easy woman to like.
Ms Bowman is a very talented author. She writes beautifully. I know that her next book will be one I love. I liked this one, but did not love it.
November 7, 2021
Captain David Ellsworth knew how to be a soldier, officer and brother. When he suddenly becomes the Earl of Elmwood, David knows not how to be an Earl, nor does he want to be an Earl. David can’t be an Earl he just can’t. How could his father the previous Earl, be an Earl? He grew up in a simple cottage with his siblings, not an Earl. Enter Lady Annabelle Bellham, the sister of the Marquess of Bellham. Unfortunately, Annabelle has a secret of her own. Annabelle has witnessed horrific tragedy and abuse. Annabelle plans to never fall for a guy no matter who it is. When Annabelle first meets David, the meeting doesn’t go as planned, especially since she snubs him. Then again Annabelle didn’t know who it was. The second time they meet Annabelle agrees to give David Earl lessons never thinking it could lead to anything. Sadly, love doesn’t play fair.
What an amazing low-hate Regency romance story that still will make you feel good! Ms. Bowman not only engages, draws you into the story and totally completely love the characters! Yes, the story is part of a series but stands on its own and shines by itself. The writing is amazingly good. The prologue doesn’t seem to fit though. Sure, it sets why Annabelle is the way she is but it still makes you hate her a bit, especially in how she treats David or men for that matter. Annabelle acts uppity, snobbish and is very condensing that she is so hard to relate too. While David is just the perfect hero, he’s handsome, gallant and despite his title is humble, down-to-earth what’s not to like? He is easily just such a good book boyfriend that of course he is unofficially added to the list. Hopefully, there will be more stories of the Footmen’s club because it sounds like a true party worth joining and worth reading too!
What an amazing low-hate Regency romance story that still will make you feel good! Ms. Bowman not only engages, draws you into the story and totally completely love the characters! Yes, the story is part of a series but stands on its own and shines by itself. The writing is amazingly good. The prologue doesn’t seem to fit though. Sure, it sets why Annabelle is the way she is but it still makes you hate her a bit, especially in how she treats David or men for that matter. Annabelle acts uppity, snobbish and is very condensing that she is so hard to relate too. While David is just the perfect hero, he’s handsome, gallant and despite his title is humble, down-to-earth what’s not to like? He is easily just such a good book boyfriend that of course he is unofficially added to the list. Hopefully, there will be more stories of the Footmen’s club because it sounds like a true party worth joining and worth reading too!
June 21, 2022
Tragic and loving
She was afraid of marriage and what was involved.
He never wanted a title
Fresh off the battlefield, Captain David Ellsworth has returned home to discover the shocking and unwelcome news that he’s the new Earl of Elmwood. Though David had no idea he was in line for a title, he and his sister must now navigate the snark-infested waters of the London ton. He knows how to be a soldier, an officer, and a brother, but he hasn’t a clue how to be an earl. David will need all the help he can get. Even if it comes from the undeniably beautiful woman...who is the darling of the world he detests.
She never wanted a husband
The younger sister of a marquess, Lady Annabelle Bellham moves through elegant ballrooms with the ease of a lioness traversing the jungle. She’s the most elusive belle at every ball, and gentlemen have long placed bets on which lucky man will finally win her hand. But Annabelle has no intention of falling prey to a man’s charms. She's seen the destruction wrought by marriage and is dead set on avoiding a similar fate.
But here they are…
Thankfully, Annabelle’s older brother hasn’t pressured her to take a husband—yet. Which is why she feels obliged to agree when he asks her a favor: To teach the newly minted Earl of Elmwood how to act in Society. Still, the task shouldn’t be too difficult. All Annabelle must do is spend countless hours in the company of a handsome, brooding ex-soldier—who’s making her question every rule she’s set for herself. She and David have nothing in common except a fiery passion and some highly inconvenient feelings…could it be enough?
I own a copy of this book.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
She was afraid of marriage and what was involved.
He never wanted a title
Fresh off the battlefield, Captain David Ellsworth has returned home to discover the shocking and unwelcome news that he’s the new Earl of Elmwood. Though David had no idea he was in line for a title, he and his sister must now navigate the snark-infested waters of the London ton. He knows how to be a soldier, an officer, and a brother, but he hasn’t a clue how to be an earl. David will need all the help he can get. Even if it comes from the undeniably beautiful woman...who is the darling of the world he detests.
She never wanted a husband
The younger sister of a marquess, Lady Annabelle Bellham moves through elegant ballrooms with the ease of a lioness traversing the jungle. She’s the most elusive belle at every ball, and gentlemen have long placed bets on which lucky man will finally win her hand. But Annabelle has no intention of falling prey to a man’s charms. She's seen the destruction wrought by marriage and is dead set on avoiding a similar fate.
But here they are…
Thankfully, Annabelle’s older brother hasn’t pressured her to take a husband—yet. Which is why she feels obliged to agree when he asks her a favor: To teach the newly minted Earl of Elmwood how to act in Society. Still, the task shouldn’t be too difficult. All Annabelle must do is spend countless hours in the company of a handsome, brooding ex-soldier—who’s making her question every rule she’s set for herself. She and David have nothing in common except a fiery passion and some highly inconvenient feelings…could it be enough?
I own a copy of this book.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
June 1, 2022
I loved the premise of this story and how the hero and heroine first met. While they did not get off on the right foot, they quickly deduced the truth and exonerated their assumptions about one another.
Annabelle has a traumatic childhood back story that plays into her decision not to ever marry or have children. There were times that I wished Annabelle would have confided in someone, but I also get why she didn't until she absolutely had to share the reasoning behind her decisions.
David was an awesome hero. Plucked from the battlefield and dropped into the life of a titled aristocrat, David was immersed in a different world from the one he grew up in-and he did not like it one bit. I adored how he took Earl Lessons from Annabelle and then proceeded to break the rules. He displayed "mine" rather than saying it, and I loved it.
I also would like to add that I enjoyed the moments between Annabelle and her brother Beau (hero in The Valet Who Loved Me). They went through a lot growing up and I liked their conversation towards the end of the novel; it was such an important conversation for Annabelle, and I'm glad that it happened (I just wanted it a little sooner).
If I had any complaint, I would have wished that the hero and heroine had a heart-to-heart earlier in the story, rather than the last quarter. All in all, this was an enjoyable story that I gobbled up in one day.
3.5 stars rounded up!
CW/TW: Domestic violence/abuse and alcoholism (heroine's father), Physical assault (villain towards heroine).
Annabelle has a traumatic childhood back story that plays into her decision not to ever marry or have children. There were times that I wished Annabelle would have confided in someone, but I also get why she didn't until she absolutely had to share the reasoning behind her decisions.
David was an awesome hero. Plucked from the battlefield and dropped into the life of a titled aristocrat, David was immersed in a different world from the one he grew up in-and he did not like it one bit. I adored how he took Earl Lessons from Annabelle and then proceeded to break the rules. He displayed "mine" rather than saying it, and I loved it.
I also would like to add that I enjoyed the moments between Annabelle and her brother Beau (hero in The Valet Who Loved Me). They went through a lot growing up and I liked their conversation towards the end of the novel; it was such an important conversation for Annabelle, and I'm glad that it happened (I just wanted it a little sooner).
If I had any complaint, I would have wished that the hero and heroine had a heart-to-heart earlier in the story, rather than the last quarter. All in all, this was an enjoyable story that I gobbled up in one day.
3.5 stars rounded up!
CW/TW: Domestic violence/abuse and alcoholism (heroine's father), Physical assault (villain towards heroine).
June 16, 2024
4/5
I liked it! It was so cute actually. I didn't realize who David was at first but then I remembered he's Marianne's brother right before I started reading the book. I love how Bell accepted him so early. I wish we saw more of Rhys and Julianna but that's okay. I also wish that their wedding was described in more detail instead of just one sentence. It was surprising to learn that the six of them decided to have a joint wedding but at least they're married.
Anabelle pissed me off halfway through the book. She refused to tell David the truth about the Marquess, she pushed David away and acted all standoffish and then she had a gall to be annoyed with him? Come on. Also, yes, she's a coward. She seduced David let him believe they were going to marry, only to turn it around and leave. Ugh.
Also, as much as I loved her conversation with Bell, one talk will not fix the entire childhood trauma and convince her to have a husband and children. Honestly, that conversation should have happened at the beginning of the book and she should be reminded throughout the book about it so that it would at least make sense when she decided to give David a chance. Trauma can't be fixed by one overdue conversation, Valerie!
Though I'm glad that they have their happily ever after.
I liked it! It was so cute actually. I didn't realize who David was at first but then I remembered he's Marianne's brother right before I started reading the book. I love how Bell accepted him so early. I wish we saw more of Rhys and Julianna but that's okay. I also wish that their wedding was described in more detail instead of just one sentence. It was surprising to learn that the six of them decided to have a joint wedding but at least they're married.
Anabelle pissed me off halfway through the book. She refused to tell David the truth about the Marquess, she pushed David away and acted all standoffish and then she had a gall to be annoyed with him? Come on. Also, yes, she's a coward. She seduced David let him believe they were going to marry, only to turn it around and leave. Ugh.
Also, as much as I loved her conversation with Bell, one talk will not fix the entire childhood trauma and convince her to have a husband and children. Honestly, that conversation should have happened at the beginning of the book and she should be reminded throughout the book about it so that it would at least make sense when she decided to give David a chance. Trauma can't be fixed by one overdue conversation, Valerie!
Though I'm glad that they have their happily ever after.
November 3, 2021
The fifth book in the Footmen's Club series may be my favorite. David and Annabelle are immensely likable characters who must accept the reality of their lives in order to be together. David must accept his new station in life as the Earl of Elmwood instead of an army captain, a transition he finds uncomfortable. Annabelle, meanwhile, must come to terms with the past that haunts her and the life she has created to hide it.
Even though they are able to admit to themselves early on that they have feelings for the other, a relationship still seems unrealistic given their obstacles. They have a satisfying emotional journey to their happily ever after.
There is quite a bit of interfering family pushing them together, which makes for a bit of amusement along the way, particularly as David and Annabelle are so caught up with each other that they are oblivious to it all.
If you read the first three books of the series, you will also appreciate the payoff of the joint wedding of the original three couples. If you didn't, don't worry, you can still enjoy the book without that backstory.
Even though they are able to admit to themselves early on that they have feelings for the other, a relationship still seems unrealistic given their obstacles. They have a satisfying emotional journey to their happily ever after.
There is quite a bit of interfering family pushing them together, which makes for a bit of amusement along the way, particularly as David and Annabelle are so caught up with each other that they are oblivious to it all.
If you read the first three books of the series, you will also appreciate the payoff of the joint wedding of the original three couples. If you didn't, don't worry, you can still enjoy the book without that backstory.
September 17, 2023
Rating: 3.50/5.00 —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️.50/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Finally ending this series (I know there’s one more but not the second-chance fan)! Even though I liked this book, it was my least favorite from the series! David and Annabelle, especially towards the end, was adorable! I loved the last chapter with all the couples from the earlier books all together, laughing and admitting to how they set up Annabelle and David from the start!
One of the reasons I gave this book a lower rating from the other books would be how, even though Annabelle had reasons for refusing to get close to David, for her fear of marriage and men, and I completely understood that but it did annoy me a little since —with reason— she would spend most time with the other guy —lord Murdock— than David. Not to mention, I felt the ending was rushed, especially the part where Annabelle talks about her 18+ years of trauma with Beau and is no longer afraid, not one bit and how the last chapter is David and Annabelle getting over all their problems and ending up together.
Anyways:
• HEA ✔️
• Cheating: ❌
- OW/OM: FL & ML hangs out with another woman/man but they do nothing together
Finally ending this series (I know there’s one more but not the second-chance fan)! Even though I liked this book, it was my least favorite from the series! David and Annabelle, especially towards the end, was adorable! I loved the last chapter with all the couples from the earlier books all together, laughing and admitting to how they set up Annabelle and David from the start!
One of the reasons I gave this book a lower rating from the other books would be how, even though Annabelle had reasons for refusing to get close to David, for her fear of marriage and men, and I completely understood that but it did annoy me a little since —with reason— she would spend most time with the other guy —lord Murdock— than David. Not to mention, I felt the ending was rushed, especially the part where Annabelle talks about her 18+ years of trauma with Beau and is no longer afraid, not one bit and how the last chapter is David and Annabelle getting over all their problems and ending up together.
Anyways:
• HEA ✔️
• Cheating: ❌
- OW/OM: FL & ML hangs out with another woman/man but they do nothing together
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2022
The conversation they have when she goes to his room to seduce him and possibly explain why she won't marry him has more twists, loops, and diversions than a rat's maze, and it was a thousand times more frustrating. FFS, I hate dithering and the story stands well enough on it's own without having to rely in this cheap and overly irritating tactic.
So much twisty conversation, lashing out, projecting, etc., that I spent roughly the last half of the book gnashing my teeth and wanting to toss Lady Annabelle off a balcony.
But there was a happily ever after (we can assume), so there's that.
I'd have given this 4 stars if it weren't for all the circular, messed up, half- conversations. Also, I hated the way she used him and tricked him into taking her virginity, that was a total douchebag thing to do, especially since she got mad at him for not understanding what was going on due to her lack of communication.
Needless to say, she was not my favorite character ever.
So much twisty conversation, lashing out, projecting, etc., that I spent roughly the last half of the book gnashing my teeth and wanting to toss Lady Annabelle off a balcony.
But there was a happily ever after (we can assume), so there's that.
I'd have given this 4 stars if it weren't for all the circular, messed up, half- conversations. Also, I hated the way she used him and tricked him into taking her virginity, that was a total douchebag thing to do, especially since she got mad at him for not understanding what was going on due to her lack of communication.
Needless to say, she was not my favorite character ever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2025
Me ha encantado la historia de David y Annabelle. Es de esas novelas en las que vemos cómo se van enamorando los protagonistas, esos encuentros en los que se van conociendo poco a poco. Ha sido una grata sorpresa y me ha recordado a las historias más clásicas que se centraban más en cómo iban enamorándose y creando ese vínculo desde el principio.
David es el nuevo conde de Elmwood, su padre renunció al título por amor y ahora ha recaído en él. De su vida en el ejército y su infancia en Brighton pasa a una mansión en Londres. Gracias a su hermana y su futuro cuñado, el marqués de Bellingham consiguen que tanto la marquesa viuda y la hermana de Bell, Annabelle le den clases para que aprenda cómo es la sociedad en Londres.
Una novela para disfrutar y ver las diferencias de un entorno más tranquilo y sincero como es Brighton con el bullicioso Londres.
Fantástica novela.
David es el nuevo conde de Elmwood, su padre renunció al título por amor y ahora ha recaído en él. De su vida en el ejército y su infancia en Brighton pasa a una mansión en Londres. Gracias a su hermana y su futuro cuñado, el marqués de Bellingham consiguen que tanto la marquesa viuda y la hermana de Bell, Annabelle le den clases para que aprenda cómo es la sociedad en Londres.
Una novela para disfrutar y ver las diferencias de un entorno más tranquilo y sincero como es Brighton con el bullicioso Londres.
Fantástica novela.
September 24, 2021
Earl Lessons (The Footmen's Club, #5) by Valerie Bowman
This is the fifth book in the series and ties a neat bow on all the stories. This book can be read as a stand alone - but I suggest that you read them all. Well done Valerie.
Captain David Ellsworth (finds out he is an Earl) Lady Annabelle Bellham (vows to never marry). This is their story and is also the wedding story of the three members of the Footmen's Club. This story has angst, childhood terror, great interactions, laughter, tears, love, treachery, karma and steam to get us to a very HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Page-turner Steamy Funny Great world building Easy-to-read Action-packed Unpredictable Wonderful characters Entertaining Tear-jerker Romantic Happily Ever After Haunting Scary
This is the fifth book in the series and ties a neat bow on all the stories. This book can be read as a stand alone - but I suggest that you read them all. Well done Valerie.
Captain David Ellsworth (finds out he is an Earl) Lady Annabelle Bellham (vows to never marry). This is their story and is also the wedding story of the three members of the Footmen's Club. This story has angst, childhood terror, great interactions, laughter, tears, love, treachery, karma and steam to get us to a very HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Page-turner Steamy Funny Great world building Easy-to-read Action-packed Unpredictable Wonderful characters Entertaining Tear-jerker Romantic Happily Ever After Haunting Scary
October 14, 2021
I received an advanced reader’s copy of Earl Lessons by Valerie Bowman.
This is another enjoyable addition to the series. It was great seeing characters from the previous books make an appearance.
Annabelle and David both have well-developed pasts that added interest and depth to the story. I felt it helped with understanding the fears and conflicts each had, especially when it came to Annabelle. I loved how they interacted and their relationship progressed over time.
The reveal of various schemes undertaken by some characters was fun to read about at the end.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
This is another enjoyable addition to the series. It was great seeing characters from the previous books make an appearance.
Annabelle and David both have well-developed pasts that added interest and depth to the story. I felt it helped with understanding the fears and conflicts each had, especially when it came to Annabelle. I loved how they interacted and their relationship progressed over time.
The reveal of various schemes undertaken by some characters was fun to read about at the end.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
October 17, 2021
If you have read any of Valerie’s books you know that she is very funny and her books are what is considered Regency Romps. I went into this book thinking that this would be another fun regency romp but wait a minute, it is a bit more. While the premise of the story is very cute, the underlying real story is much darker. Not that this is a dark book because it is not but the feelings of Annabelle are all too real (even in this day and age). I was smiling through most of the book but then the tears started flowing and then onto tear smiling (yes, that is my made-up phrase). David and Annabelle are perfect for each other.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
November 16, 2025
Oh hum
Another formulaic which at the end loses its weave like a frayed shawl
An interesting window on the rigors of social etiquette in London during the regency
I dislike the name Arabella, but her and the Earl whose lessons are the title
His name is David which is a nice name
The metaphor for the series is to imagine a fancy sewing machine that can deliver a surprising pattern of stitchery
Each title having a different stitch
But looking at light Regency rather than angst it does deliver a story
Despite the ridiculous title, save a horse that was a better entry in the series of lords in disguise
Must mention worst line in entire dialogue
Oh, David, take me
And it was repeated
Another formulaic which at the end loses its weave like a frayed shawl
An interesting window on the rigors of social etiquette in London during the regency
I dislike the name Arabella, but her and the Earl whose lessons are the title
His name is David which is a nice name
The metaphor for the series is to imagine a fancy sewing machine that can deliver a surprising pattern of stitchery
Each title having a different stitch
But looking at light Regency rather than angst it does deliver a story
Despite the ridiculous title, save a horse that was a better entry in the series of lords in disguise
Must mention worst line in entire dialogue
Oh, David, take me
And it was repeated
September 25, 2021
Earl Lessons is the fifth book in the Series, but works as a stand-alone. I have read the other books in the Series, and all are amusing and entertaining. This book was different in that the hero was not pretending to be a servant, instead he is a reluctant and newly minted Earl. The heroine takes on the task of giving "Earl Lessons" which keeps the two in close contact. Because of their pasts problems occur in their relationship and the story has plenty of angst. I look forward to the last book in this Series. I received an ARC from the Author in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 2, 2021
This was a great new installment to the series. This was a different type of story. The book is about Beau sister Annabelle. It starts out when she and beau were kids and their dad drinks and beats their mother. Present Annabelle does not want to marry because she is afraid all men are like her dad. David is Marianna brother and Annabelle is giving him Earl lessons. I don’t really want to spoil anymore but I did enjoy the book. I enjoyed getting to hear more about the couples from the previous books.
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