Review - - Remember That Day

Remember That Day

by Mary Balogh

A Ravenswood Novel - Book 5

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: January 6, 2026

Reviewed by Hellie

 

Winifred Cunningham, the adopted daughter of a portrait painter, hopes that her new close friend, Owen Ware, will soon ask for her hand in marriage. But when Owen introduces Winifred to his elder brother Nicholas, the late Earl of Stratton’s second son, the slow burn between them begins.

Nicholas is a cavalry colonel—a hardened soldier whom Winifred at first despises. She finds him intimidating and cruel-looking, while he finds her strange and startlingly forthright. During a summer at Ravenswood, however, Nicholas and Winifred are unwillingly thrown together on several occasions, until they realize the passion that drives their disagreements is not due to dislike—it is because of attraction.

Winifred still awaits Owen’s proposal, and Nicholas has made his intention to marry his commanding officer’s daughter quite clear. With allegiances to other marriage prospects and brotherly bonds at risk, not to mention the age difference between them, Nicholas and Winifred know it would be wholly improper to pursue a romance...

And yet, romance is irresistible. Perhaps even inevitable.

Hellie’s Heeds

Remember That Day is a wondrous slow burn where chemistry is as important as mutual respect and friendship. Mary Balogh has been doing this for a while, and as she always does, she proves why she is the queen of sly wit, flawed but loveable characters, and the kind of romance that would make Jane Austen give her quill of approval. This is also the fifth book in the Ravenswood series, but it has the delightful surprise of combining the beloved characters from The Wescott series. 

The hero, Nicholas, is a military man (I kept thinking of Colonel Brandon when I read him–the cruel mouth, the wounded leg, the sensitivity and intense longing!)--and he is paired with the beloved adopted daughter of the Cunninghams, Winifred, who upon meeting him, professes she doesn’t like killers. Or war. Winifred is a beguiling blend of Marianne (hey, I love Sense & Sensibility) and her whimsy and longing for her own love, but more of Eleanor’s pragmatic attitude, especially when it comes to her looks and how good her prospects really are. Unfortunately, both of them are rather attached to other people when they meet: him to the General’s daughter, who has already lost two military fiancees in war, and her to Nicholas’s brother, Owen, who is passionate about making a difference in the world and is Winifred’s best friend, but he doesn’t seem to see her in the way she wishes he would. 

Balogh gives us the best of all possible settings: a country house party, complete with an annual summer fete with trinkets, contests, and the like. All the proximity between Nicholas and Winifred soon makes each of them realize: maybe they have chosen wrong. But they are both honorable, good people; and it’s only through honest communication that the ending we all hope for comes to be. Throw in scenes and vignettes with some characters we have been wondering about since we’ve seen them last, marveling at Balogh’s way of phrasing and creating emotion, and I turned the last page, smiling in pure happiness. 

The only warning I give is that reading this book will likely make you want to reread all the rest of the series…including the Westcotts. But I don’t think that’s a bad thing.

Review & Giveaway - - Remember When

Remember When

by Mary Balogh

A Ravenswood Novel - Book 4

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: January 7, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

 

The Dowager Countess of Stratton, Clarissa Ware, née Greenfield, has just presented her younger daughter to the ton, and the rest of her life belongs only to herself. She returns to Ravenswood, intending to spend the summer alone there. But the summer has other plans for her.

Born a gentleman, Matthew Taylor has chosen to spend his life as the village carpenter. Growing up, he and Clarissa were close—dangerously so, considering his family’s modest fortune. As a young man, he never would have been a suitable match for the daughter of the wealthy Greenfields. Clarissa married Caleb Ware, the Earl of Stratton, so Matthew married another, though he was widowed soon after.

Now everything is different—Clarissa has already lived the life expected of her by society. And Matthew is as attractive and intriguing as he was when they were young. As their summer friendship deepens into romance, they stand together on the precipice of change—essentially the same man and woman they remember being back then, but with renewed passion and the potential to take their lives in an entirely new direction.

PJ's Thoughts:

If you've been reading this series, you already know the details of Clarissa's marriage and subsequent widowhood. If you haven't, Balogh weaves them into this book in a such a way that you won't be lost or confused if this is your first foray to Ravenswood. 

I love second chance, reunion romances, especially those between childhood friends who reconnect later in life. But this one has an added layer of challenge. Matthew and Clarissa are from different stations in life, even more significant now that she is a dowager duchess and he is town's carpenter/wood carver. The difference was enough to not cross the line between friendship and love in their youth and is now sure to set tongues wagging when they're observed holding hands on long walks through the park. But they are no longer 17 and 18. They're a mature couple on the cusp of fifty and they know what they want although they are not unaware of the challenges that will need to be conquered to achieve it. 

This is such a lovely, endearing novel. I really enjoyed watching Matthew and Clarissa rediscover their friendship and in doing so, rediscover themselves. Clarissa, especially, learns who she is and what she wants - and deserves - outside of being a mother. I love how she begins to take control of her life and how much she - and her relationships with her children - grow as a result. Matthew has no surfeit of growth himself. I enjoyed watching the positive evolution of his relationship with his family, due in no small part to Clarissa's encouragement and support. These two are so good for each other. I loved the caring, joy, fun, and eventually, deep, lasting love that developed between them. I laughed, I cried, and I turned the final page of their novel with a deep, happy, heartfelt sigh. 

How do you feel about older characters who get a second chance at love?

Have you read any of the Ravenswood novels?

Do you enjoy cross-class romances?

One randomly chosen person posting a comment before 11:00 PM, January 12 will receive a hardcover copy of Remember When. 

*U.S. Only

*Must be 18

Review & Giveaway - - Always Remember

Always Remember: Ben's Story

by Mary Balogh

A Ravenswood Novel - Book 3

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: January 16, 2024

Reviewed by PJ

Left unable to walk by a childhood illness, Lady Jennifer, sister of the Duke of Wilby, has grown up to make a happy place for herself in society. Outgoing and cheerful, she has many friends and enjoys the pleasures of high society—even if she cannot dance at balls or stroll in Hyde Park. She is blessed with a large, loving, and protective family. But she secretly dreams of marriage and children, and of walking—and dancing.

When Ben Ellis comes across Lady Jennifer as she struggles to walk with the aid of primitive crutches, he instantly understands her yearning. He is a fixer. It is often said of him that he never saw a practical problem he did not have to solve. He wants to help her discover independence and motion—driving a carriage, swimming, even walking a different way. But he must be careful. He is the bastard son of the late Earl of Stratton. Though he was raised with the earl’s family, he knows he does not really belong in the world of the ton.

Jennifer is shocked—and intrigued—by Ben’s ideas, and both families are alarmed by the growing friendship and perhaps more that they sense developing between the two. A duke’s sister certainly cannot marry the bastard son of an earl. Except sometimes, love can find a way.

PJ's Thoughts:  

One of my favorite childhood memories is sitting around a campfire on a warm summer's night listening to the melodic cadence and mellow voice of a storyteller weaving a captivating tale. That's the feeling Balogh brings to this newest book in her Ravenswood series. I snuggled under a warm blanket and lost myself in the feelings of a heartwarming journey of both romance and family featuring characters still living in my head more than three weeks after reading their story...the first time. ;-)

I love the emotional layers within both Ben and Jenny, how each of them evolves over the course of their journey. And, as family is a primary focus of this series, I also enjoyed their inter-connecting relationships within not only their own family but each other's. Ben is such a nurturer. I love what a good dad he is, how he's always looking for ways to help others. But he always puts himself last. It's heartwarming to watch him finally place importance on his own needs and happiness and how that impacts not only his gradually deepening friendship with Jenny but also his relationships with members of his family, especially his half-brother, Devlin (Remember Love). For her part, Jenny is finally breaking out of the protective cocoon in which she has lived since her childhood illness thanks to the encouragement of Ben and the love of his young daughter. It's satisfying to watch her spread her wings, embrace the freedom of enhanced independence, and take control of her own life while facing head on the changes - and challenges - that brings to the dynamics within her own family. And I haven't even touched on the challenges a cross-class, legitimate-illegitimate pairing causes among all the dukes, earls, lords, and ladies of the families. 

One of the things I love about this book is the plethora of family and community members who are all highly visible and intrinsic to the story being told. They add a rich variety of texture, potential conflict, and heartwarming tenderness to Ben's and Jenny's journey. However, if you haven't read the first two books of the series, the sheer number of secondary characters and their inter-connecting relationships - and shared history - might be a bit overwhelming. For that reason, I would probably recommend reading the books in order. They are, in order: Remember Love, Remember Me, and Always Remember.  

Have you read any Mary Balogh books? Do you have a favorite book or series?

Are you reading the Ravenswood series?

Do you enjoy books with a large ensemble of characters?

One person who posts a comment before 11:00 PM, January 16 will receive a hardcover copy of Always Remember.

*U.S. only

*Must be 18

Tour Review - - Remember Me

Remember Me

by Mary Balogh

A Ravenswood Novel - Book 2 

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: June 20, 2023

Reviewed by Hellie

Philippa, elder daughter of the Earl of Stratton, grew up eagerly anticipating a glittering debut and a brilliant marriage. Then her brother caught their father out in a clandestine affair and denounced him publicly. The whole family was disgraced, and Philippa’s hopes grew dim, then were fully shattered when she overheard the dashing, handsome Marquess of Roath viciously insult her upon learning of her father’s identity. Only years later does Philippa find the courage to go to London at last to meet the ton. She is an instant success and enjoys a close friendship with the granddaughter of a duke. Only one man can spoil everything for her, but surely he will not be in London this year.

The Duke of Wilby is nearing death and has tasked his grandson and heir, Lucas Arden, Marquess of Roath, with marrying and producing a son before it is too late. Lucas, who usually shuns London, goes there early in the Season in the hope of finding an eligible bride before his grandparents come and find one for him. He is instantly attracted to his sister’s new friend, until that young lady asks a simple question: “Remember me?” And suddenly he does remember her, as well as the reason why the daughter of the Earl of Stratton is the one woman he can never marry—even if his heart tells him she is the only woman he wants.

Unfortunately for Philippa and Lucas, the autocratic duke and his duchess have other ideas and believe them to be perfect for each other. They will simply not take no for an answer. Telling Philippa the full truth is the hardest thing Lucas has ever faced, and the discovery of it will change them both before they discover the healing power of love.

Hellie’s Heeds

I remember when Janga would review Mary Balogh’s books; she was always so thoughtful and compelling in her recommendations. I think that’s what happened with Mary Balogh, who had been an expert Regency writer for years before I read any of her books. It took a couple promptings from Janga before I read the Slightly series. (I know, I know.) Then Mary Balogh became an auto-read and auto-buy author for me in rapid succession. When PJ offered up a list of books–of which this one was amongst the treasures–I didn’t even bother to read the blurb. I just shouted, “Me! Pick me!” and I was sent it. Once I got it in my hot little hands, I read the blurb and felt a jolt of unease. You see, Dear Reader, I am a petty-pantied grudgeholder of the Vendetta Guild–and suddenly I was holding a book in which I knew the couple would end up together, but the premise was he had something so hurtful in her vicinity, she put off coming out for her Season for years. This is where I confess: there are boys from when I was a teenager (some three decades ago) I still haven’t forgiven for the things they’ve said. Granted, clearly, I’m never ending up with any of them but forgive them? She must be joking. There is something about the deep cutting things said in our youth that sting forever. 

Oh, but it’s just like Pride & Prejudice, you’ll say! And I did say that too at first, but Darcy’s hurtful remarks upon glancing upon a small country party was nothing to what our hero says in ear-shot of our heroine, who is beautiful, kind, intelligent, and in every way, lovely. I hurt for our heroine and I seethed with her as she encounters him again as she finally debuts for her Season. I nearly tossed the book away when the hero even said a few remarks, suggesting that he didn’t quite remember what he had said (almost gaslighting her for her hurt reaction), though inwardly he does remember. Meanwhile, we meet the hero’s grandfather, who is everything you’d want in a dukely grandfather, and his adoring wife, who we also love at first sight…and then you’re like, “Oh, but what a lovely family. So terrible she’d have to marry him to have them as family.” 

This was the point where I thought, “There must be a STORY for why he said what he said, and I must know it now” and, Dear Reader, forgive me, I skipped ahead to find out. I did not find out. What I found out instead was basically The End and epilogue which made me go, “What!?” and become more upset. How was this a happy ending? I mean, technically it was a happy ending, but The End still made me want to put the book aside in a huff. So my first heed is this: Do NOT under any circumstance skip ahead to make sure the epilogue ends right. Do not. 

I went back to reading…and Ms. Balogh expertly guided her reader to a gradual liking of the hero. And a hundred pages or so later, I happily learned why the hero had said what he said, though by then I had had my suspicions. By the end, where once again I read the end and the epilogue, when I was supposed to, I thought, “Oh, that was sweet. I understand now.” I also enjoyed some tidbits about Waterloo, including how little people knew (oh, if they’d only had the internet) and the constant anxiety for loved ones waiting for their soldiers to come home safe. I made a list of all the side characters in which I wanted additional Balogh books about, and while this series is listed as 1 of 3 books in the series, that is far too few for those I need books about. I can only hope Ms. Balogh is able to keep up with my wish list. 

I do not think any of Ms. Balogh’s ardent fans will be disappointed with this latest installment; however, as well crafted as this story was and vivid the characters, I think perhaps there are a few other Balogh books ahead of it on my keeper shelf (Wulfric perhaps?), but I’m more eager for the next book that will come out in early 2024–oh, yes, Ms. Balogh is definitely keeping up with my wish list! It is always a delight to read stories crafted in the hands of a master.

Review & Giveaway - - Remember Love

Remember Love

by Mary Balogh

Ravenswood -  Book 1

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: July 12, 2022

Reviewed by PJ

The handsome and charismatic Earl of Stratton, Caleb Ware, has been exposed to the ton for his clandestine affairs—by his own son.
 
As a child, Devlin Ware thought his family stood for all that was right and good in the world. They were kind, gracious, and shared the beauty of Ravenwood, their grand country estate, by hosting lavish parties for the entire countryside. But at twenty-two, he discovered his whole world was an elaborate illusion, and when Devlin publicly called his family to account for it, he was exiled as a traitor.
 
So be it. He enlisted in the fight against Napoleon and didn’t look back for six years. But now his father is dead, the Ware family is broken, and as the heir he is being called home. It’s only when Gwyneth Rhys—the woman he loved and then lost after his family banished him—holds out her hand to help him that he is able make the difficult journey and try to piece together his fractured family.
 
It is Gwyneth’s loyalty, patience, and love that he needs. But is Devlin’s war-hardened heart even capable of offering her love in return?

PJ's Thoughts:

Mary Balogh launches her new series with this heart-tugging story of love discovered, lost, and, ultimately, remembered. It's is a tale of two parts, both the story and my review, and my thoughts about each are quite different. 

This book does not begin quickly. In fact, if I had not agreed to review it I most likely would have stopped reading somewhere around the fourth chapter. The first half of the book is slow, excruciatingly slow, with scene setting and multiple character introductions overflowing with wordy prose and superfluous details. I began skimming before I finished chapter one. Somewhere around the 40% mark, however, the pace started to pick up and my investment in the main characters began to deepen. 

With Devlin's return to England after a six-year absence, the story took a welcome turn as well. I enjoyed the exploration into each of the main characters, the layers of emotion unveiled, the hurt and bitterness that had been allowed to simmer, and the barely glowing embers of love and affection that still remained. Devlin and Gwyneth were finally given the time to dig beneath the surface of the new emotions they shared six years earlier and get to know one another as real, flawed humans rather than a starry-eyed ideal. I appreciated the fact that the author did not hold back in exploring all the messiness of their relationship, giving it an authenticity that centered my confidence in their eventual HEA. 

Devlin's and Gwyneth's precarious relationship isn't the only one at play in the second half of the book. The Wares are a family that has been destroyed from within and bringing them back together will not be an easy task. First steps are taken; threads that previously bound them tenuously restitched. The scenes between Devlin and the various members of his family are where emotions are laid bare, where my heart clenched with heartache...and hope. By the end of the book, I was attached to them all, eager to discover what their futures would hold, and happy that I had continued to read through the slow start.  

If you enjoy emotional, closed-door, Regency romance with a large, complex family at its core, give this one a try. I'll be back for book two. 

Have you read Mary Balogh?

Do you have a favorite book - or series - of hers?

What are your thoughts about reunion romances? Any favorites to share?

One person who comments before 11:00 PM, July 13 will receive a hardback copy of Remember Love.

*U.S. only

*Must be 18

*Void where prohibited