Second in a series. Phillippa has finally agreed to go to London for the season. She is older than most girls for their first season. One of the first people she meets is the man who insulted her years ago. ARC from NetGalley.

BOOK REVIEW: Remember Me by Mary Balogh
Series: A Ravenswood Novel Series | Book 2
2023 Publication Date: June 20

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐

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T.I.M.E. BOOK REVIEW:
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

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All my book reviews can be seen at This Is My Everybody | Simple Living | Denise Wilbanks at thisismyeverybody.com/blog/what-book-should-i-read

♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.

I adored Lucas and Philippa's story! I heart was broken for her during the previous story in the series and I'm so glad that I was able to see her get her HEA!

1815. Aware that his health is failing, the Duke of Wilby demands that his grandson marry. Lucas, Marquess of Roath, is unenthusiastic, but recognizes the necessity since he is the sole male heir. Lady Philippa Ware, sister of the Earl of Stratton, seems an ideal prospect, but four years ago she overheard him cruelly insult her to a companion. It shattered her already fragile sense of self-worth, and she has never forgiven him. The breach heals eventually, but the learning process which both undergo is chastening.

Balogh has a talent for creating likeable characters and winning sympathy for them, despite their faults. Respect for others and care for family are important, and by this measure, Philippa realizes the autocratic Duke of Wilby is far more admirable than was her charming, but self-indulgent, father. So too is honesty: unlike her father, the duke displays a disarmingly rueful awareness of his own failings; Lucas must tread a more painful path, not only confessing his grievous error to those he hurt unfairly, but making full atonement. And forgiveness, which Philippa must learn if she and Lucas hope to find happiness together, with help from friends, family, and the workings of fate. Highly recommended.
HNR Issue 105 (August 2023)
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/reviews/remember-me-phillippas-story-a-ravenswood-novel/

Mary Balogh in Remember Me presents an excellent regency romance. Phillipa, sister of the Earl of Stratton was badly embarrassed years ago by overhearing an unfortunate remark by the Marquess of Roath, heir to the Duke of Wilby. Now she is in London to enter the rank of young ladies in search of a husband. The Duke thinks she is the right bride for his heir. Let the games begin!

Mary Balogh is a quintessential historical romance author. Balogh's writing is calm and through. Her words and sentences are crafted with care and an understanding of the past. Remember Me is the second in her Ravenswood series. Balogh's pacing is soft and considerate as she carefully builds her characters and their motivations, enriching them with depth and dreams and emotions that make them well rounded and clear individuals. This novel develops the second chance romance with consent and renewed hope, showing the reader that love can conquer all. With soft moments and light sensuality, Balogh weaves her story and a lovely romance. Fans of Georgette Heyer will find a lovely comfort in Balogh's style and really enjoy exploring her worlds.

I was disappointed with this book. I have really loved the Mary Balogh books that I’ve read in the past, but these characters didn’t really have any chemistry between them and the plot didn’t produce any strong emotions at any point in the book. I was compelled by the storyline, especially with how the premise was something that was talked about in the first book of the series, but even though the side characters were reasonably compelling, they did not make up for the mediocre relationship that was at the heart of the book. Neither Lucas or Pippa had strong enough characters separately, and their dynamic together was not enough to propel the storyline because it was a bit forgettable. I’m hoping that Balogh’s next book will have stronger characters and plot elements!

Philippa, eldest daughter of the Earl of Stratton, has been a recluse since her father's disgrace.

Finally ready to enjoy a London season, she's shocked to meet Lucas Arden, Marquess of Roath who once called her 'soiled goods.'

The plot unfolds, with a mix of love at first sight; past and ongoing misunderstandings to be resolved; and secrets to be shared.

As always, Mary Balogh delivers a heartwarming read with the requisite happy ending.

This. wasfine but not engrossing and I wasn't invested in the two leads as I usually like to be. It had some great scenes though

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.

After her father's affair was made public, and her favourite brother was exiled, Lady Phillipa Ware's life changed forever. Where she had expected to have a glistening season, and find a fantastic match, she eschews society, particularly after she heard the handsome Marquess of Roath insult her and her family. Years later, she and Lucas, Marquess of Roath, meet again, and Lucas is immediately drawn to his sister's new friend. He is in town to find a bride, as he knows his grandfather, Duke of Wilby, is growing older, and as his heir, he needs to do his duty. The beautiful Lady Philippa would be perfect, wouldn't she? But when she utters the words 'remember me', he is immediately thrown back to that country dance, and knows that though she may be the only woman he would ever want, he can't face marrying the Earl of Stratton's eldest daughter.

Wow, just wow! I love Mary's books, and had such high hopes for Remember Me, and I was not disappointed! Philippa's life changed so much after her father's infidelity was revealed, but it never affected her so much as the day when she was insulted by Lucas at a local assembly. Luckily only her friend overheard him, and would never tell, but it caused Philippa to put off her debut year after year, until her brother refuses to let her squander her life any longer. Devlin is ready to fight for his family, even if he has to be cruel to be kind. I loved seeing Philippa break out of her shell, and enjoy herself in London, though seeing Lucas again, especially as they were thrown together time and time again was hard. Saying those crucial words to him reopened a whole can of worms for them both, and it was breath taking to see the way they explored their past, and overcame the challenges dragging them apart. Everyone expected they would be married as soon as, as anyone with eyes could see they were made for each other, but the history only they knew needed to be overcome first. It was great to see that Mary didn't sugar coat the difficulties in their relationship, and she allowed the characters to fall in love properly, and wholly. Remember Me was a fantastic book about reconnecting and finding love when it all seemed to be lost! I can't wait for book 3!

My joint review with Kaetrin appeared at Dear Author on June 20, 2023.

In the first book in the series, Remember Love, we read about how the Earl of Stratton, father to Devlin and Philippa Ware (siblings and main characters in Remember Love and Remember Me, respectively), was discovered in a very compromising position cheating on his wife and then called out by Devlin. Devlin and his illegitimate half-brother, Ben, left to fight in the Napoleonic Wars the next day and the break within the family devastated each of the Wares.

No one was more damaged by these events than Philippa Ware, the elder of the two Ware sisters. Philippa is beautiful and was anticipating a season and when she glimpsed a handsome young man, the Marquess of Roath, at a maypole dance. When she overheard him refer to her as the blond beauty, she got excited at the prospect of being asked to dance.

But in the next moment, the marquess learned she was Stratton’s daughter and referred to her as soiled goods. Philippa was heartbroken and lost all her self-confidence. She retreated into herself and it wasn’t until Devlin’s return six years later that she decided to turn a new leaf and not allow Roath and his words to ruin her life.

In Remember Me, we meet Lucas Arden, the Marquess of Roath, and he is matched with Philippa. I admit I wasn’t at all certain I wanted to read this book because of that pairing.

Kaetrin: I thought the Marquess was always going to be Philippa’s hero. There had to be a story behind what he said.

Janine: I expected him to be more like Camille’s snobbish fiancé in the Westcott books. Your intuition was better than mine.

I didn’t think I would be able to forgive Luc for his callous and slut-shaming words. I worried that this would be a romance where Luc had to learn his lesson on how not to be an asshole and Pippa would be stuck with someone who needed lessons on that topic. Miraculously that was not the case.

The review is continued here:

The enemies to lovers trope is one that has to walk a fine line. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as the growth that comes from seeing the error of your ways and caring enough about someone to right whatever you did wrong, but depending on what you’ve done wrong, many novels are too short to really address the wrong in a believable way. What may have happened over months in the story is a page turn for the reader and entirely unsatisfying if not written well. I’m happy to say that I could buy into the redemption of Lucas Arden, Marquess of Roath after he just sticks his foot in his mouth in a monumental way, seemingly forever relegating Phillipa to a life of insignificance and embarrassment.

The title, Remember Me, comes from a great moment in the story when Phillipa confronts Lucas rather than cowering from him, determined to address him even if she can’t address society at large. I liked that moment. I also loved Lucas’ grandparents who have already decided they like Phillipa and won’t take no for an answer. Suddenly being thrown together is not a groaner of contrivance, but the cute interference of elderly and opinionated busybodies. This would make a great movie along the lines of 1999’s An Ideal Husband.

Two thumbs up for an excellent poolside read!

My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot

Philippa Ware has hated Lucas Arden since she heard him call her "soiled goods." Convinced her father's indiscretions have ruined her to society, she has stayed home, withdrawn and depressed, for years. After the first book in the series brings her brother home, the family starts to heal and Philippa finally goes to London, at twenty-two, for her first season. There, the family continues to heal and look to the future.

Unfortunately for Philippa, that includes her mother reconnecting with old friends, including Lucas's aunt. Doubly unfortunate, Philippa loves his family, and they adore her too.

Quickly, their families see them as a perfect match, and will scheme to get them together.

I really enjoyed that Philippa confronts him with what he said to her during their first meeting. I was proud she did not shy away from telling him she overheard him, and though it takes a bit more for him to share why he had such a negative view on her father, their refusal to like each other, while constantly being with each other and clearly loving everything they get to know, was enjoyable.

When you learn why Lucas is so adamant they can't be together, you get it (which is refreshing compared to stories where the reason the couple can't be together is too contrived). Seeing them become a team against their family, in unison that they WON'T be together is amusing. Though it was best when they became a true team because they were perfect for each other. Especially because they went into marriage both knowing what the other did not want, it helped them figure out how to be the best partner to the other.

As always, I enjoyed Mary's writing and down-to-earth the plot and relationships are, so they feel real and heartfelt.

Feat: "enemies" to lovers, ~forbidden~ love, regency romance, meddling family

4 stars
1 spice

In Mary Balogh’s Regency Romance, REMEMBER ME, Lady Phillipa Ware, after enduring several setbacks that kept her confined at home, is finally poised to make her long-awaited debut in London. Encouraged by her brother Devlin, the Earl of Stratton, Pippa is determined to put the past behind her and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
In the bustling social whirl of London, Pippa quickly forms a deep friendship with Jenny, the granddaughter of a Duke. However, she learns that Jenny is the sister of the man who had wounded Pippa with a thoughtless comment in the past. The Marquess of Roath, Lucas, will not explain his devastating comment, leaving Pippa wary of being in his presence.
As the Duke of Wilby (Lucas’s grandfather) arrives in London with the goal of securing an heir for his family line, he meets and becomes enamored with the captivating Lady Phillipa Ware. Meanwhile, Lucas decides it's time to reveal the truth about the past hoping it will change the dynamics of their strained relationship.
REMEMBER ME is a captivating read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted Regency romance. I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in this world of love, redemption, and the complexities of relationships. Balogh's skillful storytelling kept me engaged throughout.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of the book.

Remember Me by Mary Balogh is a wonderful love story. I recommend this novel to all readers who love a good love story.

A Matchmaking Duke puts a pair of secret enemies on a collision course for the London Season.

Picking up the story of the next Ware sibling after Devlin and Gwyneth got their story in Remember Love, Lady Phillippa ‘Pippa’ Ware has taken her older brother’s words to heart and plans to get on with the challenge of living her life and not hiding away on the country estate. Pippa is determined to find affection and respect in a marital partner and she won’t settle for less.
Lucas Arden, the Marquess of Roath, once delivered an insult that was like a dagger thrust to a young Lady Phillipa, but he is in fact a tender and caring person who spoke hastily and regrettably. His determined grandparents have settled on that very beautiful, charming and intelligent lady for his bride. The secret he carries and her rightful refusal to want anything to do with him are a huge complication.

Strong Story Elements
Like all Mary Balogh books, the surrounding cast of friends and family play a larger role in the story so it feels more family saga than simple historical romance. We meet them all through Pippa and Luc’s alternating narration perspectives. I appreciate how there is an organic flow of encounters and events through Mary Balogh’s writing.

Another great feature of her writing is that she’s not afraid to have characters of different abilities and struggles like Luc’s younger sister Jenny who had a debilitating childhood illness that left her in a wheeled chair or Pippa’s sister Stephanie who is more plump and scholarly than is fashionable at the time. Nor is Mary Balogh shy of presenting the effects of the Napoleonic war or how the culture of the day effects on her characters. Thus the historical background is deep and rich.

Remember Me is not epic in scope and does seem to be lacking a strong impetus that drives the story like in the first book. But, that said, the gentle character-driven plot with the slow burn romance taking them from hostility to friendship and matchmaking machinations of the duke and duchess were still very engaging, humorous, and easily kept my focus from start to finish. It was obvious to everyone this pair were meant for each other, but they had to get past the barriers they both thought prevented them from having a future.
A good time for historical romance fans to jump in on a sparkling Regency-era family-oriented series while there are only the first two books and the much anticipated third coming.

Remember Me is the second story in the Ravenwood series and for me it was the story that I anxiously anticipated its release. Phillipa Ware is about to embark on her debut into Society and is concerned that her father’s past will prevent her from making a match. Four years ago, she overheard the Marquess of Roath, Lucas Arden, declare her as spoiled goods, which devastated her and led her to postpone her debut. Now she is ready and isn’t going to let anyone again stop her from living her life. Except the Marquess is in London as well, looking for a wife. And who should be her mother’s dearest friend in town with her family? Lucas’ Aunt Kitty, along with his immediately family. Lucas’ grandfather, the Duke of Wilby, has decreed that Lucas Arden must marry before the end of the Season and has his sight on Pippa to be his match. Family and circumstances keep bringing Lucas and Philippa together, and their paths cross several times making it hard for them not to feel an attraction. But what can they do about it when something clearly stands in their way?

I thought that this enemies to friend story had an interesting twist and the romance a slow but steady build. The first time they met, Lucas and Pippa felt an instant attraction but his insult put a halt to it. Meeting again in London, they now must learn to be in each other’s company and be civil. The both realize that if it wasn’t for the insult, they probably would have become friends and even betrothed. But when the Duke persists that Lucas court her and propose marriage, Lucas has no choice but to reveal his secret. With revealed secrets, Lucas and Pippa can truly put things in perspective and move forward. I also thought that the secondary characters truly enhanced the story. Jenny Arden, Lucas’ younger sister, is brought to life each time she is in the story. She doesn’t let her being cripple dampen her attitude and zest for life, and really does look at things with a positive yet realistic spin on things. Her story is bittersweet and I truly hope to see her again. Then there are Lucas’ grandparents, Percy and May, and how they have had a long and romantic marriage and truly are devoted to one another. He may be an autocrat with his grandson but he is genteel and loving with his wife. You can tell he loves his family deeply and wants to make sure all is in place before he dies. I have to say the secondary characters just made this story so much better and made the romance slowly come to life. The author has created a Regency era masterpiece in depicting the London season and the marriage mart with heart, emotion and accuracy. Balogh is a true master of historical romance and it is really a marvelous story.

Remember Me is a delightful and entertaining historical romance set in the 1800’s. This story has all the elements I love in historical romance. The two main characters have large families who love to meddle and offer unsolicited advice. Also, we are thrown into the glittering world of the London season and it is fun imagining what it would be like living during these times. The story is well written and easily transported me into their world and the two main characters, Lucas and Philippa are likable and easy to relate to.

Things do not go well the first time Lucas and Philippa meet and there is confusion and misunderstandings between them when they meet again, several years later. However, when Lucas and Philippa are continually thrown together during the London season, their feelings for each other slowly change. Lucas tries to show Pilippa that he is a nice guy, but Pilippa can’t forgive him for the harsh words he uttered years ago. I enjoyed all Lucas and Philippa’s encounters and I could feel the sparks igniting between them whenever they were together. I thought they were perfect for each other and wanted everything to work out between them.

What I love about Mary Balogh is she knows how to paint a picture and write an intriguing plot and a beautiful story. She does a great portrayal of the characters in this story and was able to make them sympathetic, vulnerable and easy to connect with. This story is full of richness and depth and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next.

Mary Balogh's books are always a solid purchase for my library. I enjoyed this story of redemption I liked both main characters and thought the duke and duchess were so fun. I would like to read more about the Ware family.

I am very new to the author’s work, why I was a bit fearful at first to read her stories, afraid to be lost with to many mentions of past characters from her previous works.
And so far I have been lucky with the two books I read, as the actions were taking place mostly away from the city and with characters sort of removed from the ton, I have been able to enjoy the stories which drowning in a list of too many characters.
Alas it has not been the case for this book.
Set in London, it was expected for the heroes to mingle among society, what I did not see coming what the Debrett’s listing of everyone crossing path with them.
It was confusing and lost me more often than less, as it had me having to go back to seek where I left the characters.
Which did not help to really enter the story, thankfully things moved a bit once we reached half mark and the main couple finally was able to settle their enmity and clear the air between them.

As what has been carelessly voiced and, sadly overheard shaped the heroine’s life for the last four years. She really let few words from a stranger alter her life as if he has fired into her heart.
After same is to say from Lucas when he realizes the weight his words had on this young woman, he owns his culpability and tries to atone for his error.
As now Philippa has entered the snake den, she is able to see she made a mountain of clearly nothing for the ton.

While his behavior is quite outrageous, I loved the duke antics and his duchess too, they were much entertaining as was Jenny, the hero’s sister, a young woman who did not let life’s hardships slow her down, determined to experience everything at its fullest

« Is your grandfather really dying?” “Who knows?” he said. “Even his physician cannot predict such an event with any great accuracy, I suppose. His Grace can be a very stubborn man. He may give Death one of his looks when it comes calling, and Death may go slinking away and not dare return until a more convenient time.” »

After Lucas and Philippa’s “courtship” once they settled the past was nice to follow. Even if it did not follow the path they would have wanted, in the end, they were a matched pair.
3.75 stars rounded up

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scene

I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.