Review | A Ravenswood Novel Series by Mary Balogh
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Always Remember by Mary Balogh
Series: A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 3
2024 Publication Date: January 16
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️
Best Regency Romance Novels
T.I.M.E. Favorite Books To Read
T.I.M.E. Best Books By Genre | Best Historical Romance Books
Table of Contents
T.I.M.E. BEST BOOK REVIEW
A Heart Warming Tale That Defies The Odds...
Regency Romance novels have captured the hearts of readers worldwide because of the colorful characters, bubbling plot lines, and of course at the top of the list... The wonderful world of love set in the highly romantic time and setting via regency romances.
The timeless classics of the regency romance genre inspire page-turning, heartwarming historical romance stories that never seem to lose their enchanting touch. One such novel is Always Remember by Mary Balogh, the third book in the A Ravenswood Novel Series.
Are you looking for something to read that will wrap you in a warm, cozy embrace? If so, dive into the enchanting Regency Era world that our beloved author, Mary Balogh, has created.
Here’s my T.I.M.E. Best Book Review of Always Remember to help you decide whether this book is your right answer to “what book should I read next?”...
Plot Points
Always Remember tells the story of the Duke of Wilby’s sister, Lady Jennifer Arden. She has an outgoing and cheerful personality but is unable to walk without the aid of primitive crutches... And her life exists within challenging physical boundaries and the additional over-protective nature of her family.
Her fellow protagonist is Ben Ellis, the illegitimate brother and best friend of the Earl of Stratton (now head of the Ware Family which provides the interconnected romance continuum)... And though Ben has always been embraced by the Ware Family, his illegitimacy can still be a challenge to overcome mentally at times for Ben and others as well.
When Ben meets Lady Jennifer, he recognizes that she yearns for independence and motion. Despite the social stigmas and even the family concerns that come with it, the two begin to foster a deep connection.
Standout Features of Always Remember
• Extraordinary Depth of Characters
Mary Balogh has done an excellent job of exploring the depth of her characters in this novel and regency romance series. I find this is one of the elements I love most about Mary Balogh's books overall. The level of detail is extraordinary, expansive and does not shy away from melding modern issues within the historical context.
The aspects of the characters’ natures that she revealed in the first two books of the series only make them more intriguing in Always Remember. This factor supports my suggestion to begin any of her series’ with Books 1 and continue forward... Or if you drop in with a later book, make it a point to circle back to read the ones you missed.
Lady Jennifer’s and Ben Ellis’ interactions are also unpredictable. You never know what witty comeback or romantic moment to expect next. Their story is a delightful tapestry of friendship, true love, and hope.
And I love reading love stories inclusive to all types of people and couples... Thank you, Mary Balogh, for continuing to use historical genres to enlighten our understanding of circumstances we still have much to learn about even today. By transporting us to another time and place, we often find the open door to "drop our guard" and gain an insight beyond the walls of our mind... Whether we realize we have even built those walls or not.
• Extraordinary Writing Style
Another characteristic that makes this regency romance novel enjoyable is Balogh’s writing style. Her style is super-detailed yet clean, precise, and tied perfectly to the time period. The emotions of the characters are displayed through their verbal expressions and body language.
Furthermore, the description of the English countryside setting is so vivid that you will feel as if you are experiencing a day in the life of Regency England.
• Extraordinary Overall Series
One of the great things about Always Remember is that even if you have not read the other regency romance novels in the A Ravenswood Novel Series, you can enjoy this one book as a standalone. However, having read the previous books enhances the nuances of the story and gives you a deeper understanding of the characters.
Similar to Jane Austen, Balogh does not take shortcuts in creating her characters or their relationships. It gives the novel its charm and uniqueness. So, choose your preference... But, make sure to not miss a single book, whether you choose to read in order or not!
EPILOGUE
Always Remember is a regency romance novel that is impossible to put down. Mary Balogh weaves in topics such as social class, morality, and acceptance to produce a love story that is engrossing and inspiring.
The book’s central theme of hope will brighten your day. The characters and story convey Balogh’s conviction that even in the darkest moments, life can bloom to reveal a better tomorrow.
Perfect for anyone in search of classic regency romance novels with fascinating characters, extraordinary writing, and a charming narrative filled with insightful treasures!... ✨😎✨
♡ T.I.M.E. TIP
Although it is a cumulative series, you can read this regency romance book series as standalone books since they are interconnected romance books… Meaning each book focuses on a different couple from the same "world" of the Ware family and Ravenswood Hall... But interconnected romance is still a cumulative series... As for me, I started with Book 1 and am always glad to get in on the ground floor of world-building to fully embrace the interconnected romance bonus element... ✨😎✨
BOOK DETAILS
Pages: 366
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub-Genre: Regency Romances | Forbidden Love Romance (Off Limits Romance) | Interconnected Romance | Steamy Romance
T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating:️ 🌶 (Mild Spicy)
Time Period: Early 1800s | Regency Era
Location: Hampshire | Southern England
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
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♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.
BOOK SYNOPSIS
A heartwarming tale that defies the odds... In Always Remember, the incomparable Lady Jennifer Arden and the resourceful Ben Ellis find themselves drawn to each other despite knowing a match is out of reach...
Lady Jennifer longs for love, marriage, and the ability to walk and dance freely.
Ben, known for his knack for problem-solving, is determined to help her achieve independence and happiness. But as the illegitimate son of an earl, Ben understands the challenges they face if they choose to pursue anything more than being acquaintances.
Will their connection be enough to overcome society's expectations?
In this delightful Regency romance from bestselling author Mary Balogh, sometimes love finds a way, even in the most unlikely circumstances.
BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION
The importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, as shown through Ben's determination to help Lady Jennifer achieve her dreams despite societal stigmas.
This can serve as inspiration for anyone facing challenges or obstacles in their own lives.
The power of love to bring people together, regardless of societal expectations or background.
This theme is present throughout the book and can serve as a reminder to not judge others based on superficial factors.
The message of hope that runs throughout the book, reminding readers to never give up on their dreams and to always hold onto hope even in the darkest of times.
This can be especially relevant for those going through difficult circumstances or struggling with their own personal challenges.
BOOK QUOTE
"Sometimes what seems impossible reveals itself as the only real possibility..." — Always Remember by Mary Balogh (A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 3)
ALWAYS REMEMBER | BOOK EXCERPT
“I beg your pardon if you have found my daughter’s behavior offensive,” he said. “I have tried to explain to her that your chair is not a novelty vehicle invented to give rides to a child. But . . . Well, she is three years old and—”
She surprised him by laughing and holding up a staying hand. “Mr. Ellis,” she said. “I have two nephews and a niece in addition to Luc’s babies—my sister’s children. Each of them in turn had to have rides on my chariot when they were infants. Sometimes I had more than one of them at a time on my lap. Once, I can remember, all three of them climbed aboard until my brother-in-law took pity on me. But I was never offended. Quite the contrary, in fact. It feels good to be a favored aunt when I cannot actually romp with the children. I have been charmed by your daughter’s requests for a ride. She is as light as a feather on my lap, you know, and sits very still. She has the prettiest curls. Please do not forbid her to ask again.”
“It is kind of you to call her demands requests,” he said. “She inherited the curls from her mother, who always hid her own in a ruthlessly tight bun.”
“That must have been a shame,” she said.
“It made practical good sense,” he told her. “She needed to keep it out of her face. The weather was often very hot in the Peninsula, and she was a washerwoman.”
There was a brief, startled silence. Or so it seemed to Ben. She was too well-bred to show it openly.
“She went to war with her first husband,” he told her. “He was a private soldier with the foot regiment in which Devlin was an officer. The wives of the enlisted men had to compete in a lottery to be permitted to go, but those who won a place were expected to make themselves useful. There was always a great need for washerwomen.”
“You were her second husband, then?” she said.
“Third,” he said. “The other two died in battle. It was a common thing during the wars. Most of the women stayed with the army once they were there, and many married multiple times. Marjorie died when the regiment was fighting and slogging its way over the Pyrenees into France with the rest of the army. The conditions in the mountains were appalling and the weather was brutal. Winter was coming on. She was tough but not tough enough after she took a chill.”
Why the devil was he telling her all this? They were not the sorts of things one told a lady. He had not talked much of his years in the Peninsula even with his own family, and he was sure Devlin had not either. Or Nicholas. Was there a sort of defiance in his telling, as though he were thumbing his nose at any preconceived ideas she might have of him? As though he were telling her he was not ashamed of who he was or whom he had married? It had never occurred to him to be ashamed. It had never occurred to him either that he might be carrying a grudge against the world or some part of it. It was not a pleasant thought that perhaps he was. He ought to be making light conversation about the roses and the sunshine. How had this started anyway? With her comment on Joy’s curly hair?
“I am sorry about that,” she said. “Did she leave a family behind in England?”
“None,” he said—and his thoughts touched by natural association upon the letter in his pocket. “She never knew either of her parents or anything about them. She grew up in an orphanage in London. She married a fellow orphan when she was about sixteen.”
“I believe, Mr. Ellis,” she said, “she must have been very fortunate to meet you after being widowed for the second time. You did not put her child in an orphanage.”
He gazed at her in some shock. “She is my child too,” he said. “She is ours. She was the joy of our lives.”
“Joy,” she said, and smiled. “How lovely. You chose the name quite deliberately.”
And that was it for that topic. Unsurprisingly, he was not feeling any more comfortable with her despite the beauty of their surroundings and the normally soothing sound of the water gushing from the fountain and the heady summer scent of the roses. Perhaps the only thing to do was confront his discomfort head-on.
“Do you walk every day?” he asked her.
“I try,” she said. “I made the resolution soon after the passing of my grandparents earlier this year that I would make the effort, that I would boost my energy and spirits by doing something each day to make myself stronger and more healthy. More active. More . . . cheerful.”
She was always cheerful. It was something he had noticed about her when he met her last year—though there had been the exception of the days following the death of her grandparents this year, of course. He had noticed her cheerfulness again after her arrival here with her aunt. She almost always spoke with smiling animation. Her eyes frequently sparkled. She gave the impression of perpetual happiness. But it had occurred to him more than once that surely no one could be that cheerful all the time. She least of all. The dreadful and crippling illness she had suffered early in her life continued to affect her. She was more or less confined to a chair. She was unmarried, probably as a result of that fact. He estimated that she must be in her early to mid-twenties. He believed she spent most of her life at a country home with only her aunt for company. She might have legions of friends in the neighborhood, of course. Lady Catherine Emmett was certainly a sociable woman and was always cheerful herself. Yet . . .
Well, he had found himself wondering if Lady Jennifer Arden’s habitual brightness of manner was something of a mask behind which the real person hid. It was none of his business, of course. Besides, did not all people wear masks to varying degrees? Were there any people who opened themselves up fully to the scrutiny of the whole wide world without keeping at least bits of themselves hidden safely away inside?
Excerpted from Always Remember by Mary Balogh Copyright © 2024 by Mary Balogh. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Mary Balogh | Photo by Sharon Pelletier
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MARY BALOGH has written more than one hundred historical novels and novellas, more than forty of which have been New York Times bestsellers. They include the Bedwyn Saga series, the Simply Quartet series, the Huxtable Quintet series, the seven-part A Survivors’ Club Novel Series, and The Westcott Series.
Learn more online at marybalogh.com
More T.I.M.E. Book Reviews on Mary Balogh Books…
Remember Love by Mary Balogh (A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 1) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ > See below
Remember Me by Mary Balogh (A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 2) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ > See below
MORE T.I.M.E. BOOK REVIEWS for A Ravenswood Novel Series by Mary Balogh
“Keep the faith in a “winter” season... The “spring” will always come...”
Book 1 | Remember Love
T.I.M.E. BEST BOOK REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️
T.I.M.E. Favorite Books To Read
T.I.M.E. Best Books By Genre | Historical Romance
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Loved, loved, loved this book!
Mary Balogh stole my heart with her previous book, Someone Perfect, and forever placed her future books on my "auto-buy" list as an historical romance author that is never satisfied with just writing a fabulous romance story... But raises the ante by infusing her story with a standout strong female character lead and story elements that explore societal issues as well. Feeding your heart, your soul and your mind.
And I am so thrilled to now have the opportunity to “get in on the ground level” with her new series, A Ravenswood Novel, with Book 1 entitled Remember Love... So just try to keep me from gushing in this review!
To begin with... I am naming this book a T.I.M.E. Favorite Book To Read and Best Books by Genre | Historical Romance.
Plus, you are reading correctly when you see I have also placed Remember Love on my T.I.M.E. Best Book Club Books list as well. It is super-rare that I name an historical romance novel as a best book recommendation for book club reading selections. Only because my top picks for book clubs are relegated to books that generally explore topics that would encourage meaningful discussions which often stretch or challenge our understanding of the human condition.
Literary fiction always tops the list... But I am always looking to stretch the boundaries of best book club books recommendations with additional genres that still present the solid underbelly that nurtures a great book club discussion.
In Remember Love, an exploration of recognizing, acknowledging and accepting responsibility for the truth is at the core of this story. And I would love to be a part of a book club discussion where each reader dissects and comes to their own conclusion of the events in this story... And perhaps connects their conclusions to modern day headlines.
As one of the characters surmises... "We are a bewildering species."
But, I must admit... Even without the "girders" of this strong undercurrent, the characters, setting, culture, music and romance completely swiped my calendar clean, as I could not put this book down.
All of the characters are absolutely enticing... And I can't wait to see who will be the focus in Book 2 of this series... Save me a place on the waitlist!
Perfect for readers who are looking for a “literary fiction package" tied up with a gorgeous “historical romance bow"... ✨😎✨
Pages: 368
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub-Genre: Regency Romances | Soul Mates Romance | Interconnected Romance | Steamy Romance
T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating:️ 🌶 (Mild Spicy)
Time Period: 1808 - 1816 (Regency Era)
Location: Hampshire & Wales (England)
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
BOOK SYNOPSIS
Devlin Ware thought his family was perfect when he was younger until he discovered that they were putting on an act for the public and he exposes the truth about his family…
But in a turn of circumstances, Devlin is the one banished from home. Burdened with feelings of guilt and disappointment, he enlists in the army.
After six years away, his father dies and he has been called back as the heir. He is not sure what to expect, but he knows that he will have to confront his past.
When Devlin returns home, he finds that Ravenwood and his family are struggling. Devlin is determined to help them, but he also has to deal with his feelings for Gwyneth Rhys, the woman he loved and lost years ago amidst the fall out of exposing the truth.
Gwyneth still loves Devlin, but she knows that he is haunted by his past. She is patient with him as he tries to piece his life back together, but she wonders if he will ever be able to open up to her again.
Will Devlin finally have a chance at happiness with Gwyneth by his side?
Remember Love is a story of family, love, second chances... and the ever elusive razor's edge of living in the truth… or at least with the truth.
BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION
Is it ever too late for second chances?
The truth can be difficult to face, but is it always worth it in the end?
Can love overcome anything if you are willing to fight for it?
Explore modern-day examples of recognizing, acknowledging, and accepting responsibility for the truth
BOOK QUOTE
"It is the epitome of unfairness that many people would choose the comfortable lie over the uncomfortable truth..." — Remember Love by Mary Balogh (A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 1)
Book 2 | Remember Me
T.I.M.E. BEST BOOK REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
T.I.M.E. Favorite Books To Read
T.I.M.E. Best Books By Genre | Best Historical Romance Books
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The Unforgotten Past... A Regency Romance Tale of Love and Redemption...
Regency romance novels have been a staple for enthusiasts of historical romance, delivering a delightful escape to an era of elegance, sparkling wit, and bustling London seasons. But what sets some apart in this crowded genre?
For historical romance readers, book club members, and regency romance aficionados, Mary Balogh's novels promise more than just the usual thrills of balls and betrothals — They pack emotional depth and a redemptive narrative that resonates with the human heart.
At the core of Remember Me lies a poignant story that examines the fragility of reputation, the weight of family expectations, and the liberating power of love. Balogh intricately weaves these themes into a fabric rich with emotional textures, setting the stage for a compelling regency drama.
So, without further ado, let's unravel the intricacies of what may just be your next favorite read...
Standout Features of Remember Me
• Revisiting the Characters
Lady Philippa Ware emerges as a heroine who owns her story with quiet resilience. After withstanding the blow of a tarnished family name, her courage propels her into the very society that once snubbed her. Balogh has given readers a regency romance protagonist whose growth is not only believable but immensely rewarding.
Across the dance floor stands Lucas Arden, Marquess of Roath, our brooding yet irresistibly charming hero. His struggle with duty and desire is painted with delicate strokes by Balogh's practiced hand.
Readers will find themselves rooting for him as he grapples with the ghosts of disdainful remarks made in his less considerate youth. Why? Because we all have had moments where we have succumbed to being inconsiderate... And don't we all hope we will be embraced by compassion with an opportunity to earn redemption as well.
• The Dance of Romance
Like any grand regency romance, the dance between Philippa and Lucas is intricate and complex. They move from mutual antipathy to reluctant acquaintances, and from friends to would-be lovers, each phase crafted with emotional intelligence.
It is not simply an historical romance tale of attraction but one of confronting prejudices and past judgments — a narrative that calls for introspection as much as it beckons the heart.
• Exploring the Regency World
Remember Me delves into the refined yet often hypocritical society of the London season, laying bare the trials and tribulations that accompany tradition and expectation. Balogh spins the tale with historical authenticity, from the glittering ballrooms to the sprawling country estates, inviting readers to step into a world layered with societal mores and glitzy interactions.
• Raises the Bar for Regency Romance Novels
Remember Me transcends the archetypal plots with deeper emotional currents and presents characters that serve as more than just vehicles for a happy ending. Balogh's attention to detail and historical regency England nuance adds a layer of sophistication that elevates this book on society's bookshelf.
The novel's strength also lies in its redemptive arc, which propels both Philippa and Lucas towards personal fulfillment and mutual understanding. It is a celebration not just of love, but also of personal growth and forgiveness, themes universally understood across time periods.
EPILOGUE
Readers of Remember Me will find themselves more than mere spectators — they will become confidants of the characters' secret hopes and fears.
Mary Balogh has once again proven her mastery with a regency romance novel that not only tugs at the heartstrings but also elicits respect for its artful portrayal of regency romance—a must-read for genre enthusiasts and a stellar addition to any collection of best regency romance novels.
Whether you are curled up on a rainy day or soaking up the sun in your favorite reading nook, Remember Me is poised to steal your heart and remind you why romances set against the backdrop of England's Regency era remain timeless.
And so, with the weight of my full-hearted recommendation, I invite you to share in the tender revelations of Philippa and Lucas's story.
May it enchant you, challenge you, and ultimately, remind you of love's enduring power to mend and transform.... ✨😎✨
Pages: 365
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub-Genre: Regency Romances | Interconnected Romance | Steamy Romance
T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating:️ 🌶 (Mild Spicy)
Time Period: Early 1800s | Regency Era
Location: Hampshire | Southern England
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
BOOK SYNOPSIS
A story of love's transformative power that navigates through the trials of high society scandal and personal disgrace. Remember Me unveils the emotional journey of Lady Philippa Ware as she confronts the ghosts of her past and the whispers of her heart...
The eldest daughter of the Earl of Stratton, Lady Philippa Ware, had once pictured a life filled with the glamour of a dazzling debut and an enviable matrimonial match. But the public scandal caused by her father's misdeeds and her brother's damning accusations cast a dark shadow over such dreams. Her aspirations of joy were further crushed upon a chance overhearing: the desirable Marquess of Roath, issuing scornful remarks linked to her tainted family name.
Years of withdrawal pass before Philippa gathers the fortitude to emerge within London's esteemed circles. Her reentry is met with triumph and the delight of befriending a Duke's granddaughter. Yet, the fragile structure of her newfound standing is threatened by the potential reemergence of Roath—the very man capable of unraveling her composure.
As fate conspires, Lucas Arden, the Marquess of Roath, finds himself amidst the early season’s throngs, duty-bound by his ailing grandfather, the Duke of Wilby, to secure a wife and secure the family line. Despite his aversions to societal fetes, his eye is caught by the charm of an unfamiliar lady who soon reveals a connecting thread to a painful recollection.
Bound by honor and society's expectations, the recollection of their shared history looms heavy. With the Duke and Duchess firmly favoring a union between the two, Lucas faces the daunting task of confiding the bitter truth to Philippa—a revelation that could tarnish the fragile hope rekindled in both their hearts.
BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION
The power of forgiveness and redemption
Remember Me highlights the transformative effects of forgiveness and redemption in the face of past mistakes and societal expectations. It shows how love has the ability to heal past wounds and redeem individuals, leading them towards a brighter future.
The complexities of human relationships
Through the tumultuous relationship between Philippa and Lucas, the novel explores the intricate dynamics of human relationships and how misunderstandings and past actions can shape the present. It also emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding in maintaining healthy relationships.
The endurance of love
Despite societal pressures and personal struggles, Philippa and Lucas's love endures and triumphs over all obstacles. This serves as a reminder that true love knows no bounds and has the power to conquer all challenges.
BOOK QUOTE
"But love does not die, I think... It may lie dormant, and it may leave wounds and scars. But it never goes away..." — Remember Me by Mary Balogh
REMEMBER ME | BOOK EXCERPT
Voices hummed all around them and glass and china clinked as the other guests feasted upon the sumptuous tea set out before them. Spoons scraped upon dishes of fruit trifle. Philippa glanced down at her plate and was surprised to see that the cucumber sandwich had disappeared. She even had the taste of it in her mouth.
But would this tea, to which she had looked forward with such eager anticipation, never be over? She felt as though she were suffocating. The room seemed unnaturally stuffy.
"I have just realized to my shame that I have not yet spoken with at least one third of our guests," Jenny said as she set her napkin down on the table. "I was so absorbed in my conversation with Pippa before you arrived, Luc, that I neglected everyone else. And I kept you from mingling too, Pippa, though I know you have very few acquaintances in London and came here to make some. I do apologize."
"We can put your first concern to rest without further delay, Jenny," Sir Gerald said, getting to his feet. "I see your wheeled chair in the corner here beside the mantel. Let me get you into it, and we will move about together from table to table, greeting people we have not already spoken with."
He was fetching the chair as he spoke. He bent over his cousin and, with what was obviously practiced ease, lifted her into it.
"That is kind of you, Gerald," Jenny said. "But now I am abandoning Pippa after begging her to stay with me. Luc, will you be so good as to give her your company until everyone begins to move about again?"
"It will be my pleasure," he said while Philippa smiled and her heart thumped uncomfortably and she felt robbed of breath.
The Marquess of Roath was on his feet, moving his chair out of the way so the wheeled chair could pass behind it, and bending to tuck the hem of his sister's dress about her ankles so it would not catch beneath a wheel.
When he sat down again, he did not move his chair back to where it had been. It was now closer to Philippa than before. She was aware again of the voices around them, seeming to enclose them in a cocoon of silence, which neither of them broke for a few moments. Their eyes met. His were brown, but not very dark. There were hints of green in them. He opened his mouth to speak, but she forestalled him. She had learned something in the last seven or eight months, since Devlin's return home from the wars. She had learned the importance of speaking truth rather than suppressing it and living with the illusion that all would be well in her world if only she kept quiet about what was not well.
"Remember me?" she said.
* * * * *
The sound of many voices talking at once had grown louder as more of the guests finished eating. A few had risen from their places and were moving about to talk with fellow guests at other tables. Lady Philippa Ware had spoken quietly. Lucas was not quite sure he had heard her correctly.
But all through tea, while the four of them had chatted amiably and shared family anecdotes and laughed over them—his and Jenny's and Gerald's on the one hand, Lady Philippa's on the other—he had been dragging up a distant memory from that place in the mind where one stuffs away gaffes one would dearly love to obliterate altogether if only it were possible. It was a memory from four or five years ago of going to spend Easter with James Rutledge, a friend from his Oxford years. James lived with his parents and siblings somewhere close to the village of…Boscombe? Lucas thought that was the name. It was in Hampshire anyway. When he had accepted the invitation, he had had no idea that the Earl of Stratton lived at Ravenswood Hall, a mere stone's throw from the village. He had discovered it within a day or two of his arrival, however. James had taken him—because he had thought it would amuse Lucas—to watch a crowd of his neighbors practice maypole dancing in someone's large barn, or what was supposedly a barn. It had clearly not seen either animals or hay for many a year, if ever.
Lady Philippa was not going to speak again, it seemed, until he did. But her eyes—those large, very blue eyes—did not waver from his own. And though she had spoken quietly, she had also spoken quite distinctly. He did not need to have her repeat the words.
Remember me?
"Have we met before, Lady Philippa?" he asked. But he had the ghastly feeling that they had.
Excerpted from Remember Me by Mary Balogh Copyright © 2023 by Mary Balogh. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
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