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Ravenswood #5
Remember That Day: a sparkling enemies to lovers historical romance
Discover a new heartwarming story from New York Times bestselling author and beloved 'queen of Regency romance' Mary Balogh.
A soldier and a pacifist make the unlikeliest of pairs, but when attraction sparks, there's nothing that can prevent their love from igniting.
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 of attraction 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.
Praise for Mary Balogh
'A grand mistress of the genre' Romantic Times
'Balogh is the queen of spicy Regency-era romance, creating memorable characters in unforgettable stories' Booklist
'Mary Balogh sets the gold standard in historical romance' Jayne Ann Krentz
'A romance writer of mesmerising intensity, Mary Balogh has the gift of making a relationship seem utterly real and utterly compelling' Mary Jo Putney
A soldier and a pacifist make the unlikeliest of pairs, but when attraction sparks, there's nothing that can prevent their love from igniting.
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 of attraction 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.
Praise for Mary Balogh
'A grand mistress of the genre' Romantic Times
'Balogh is the queen of spicy Regency-era romance, creating memorable characters in unforgettable stories' Booklist
'Mary Balogh sets the gold standard in historical romance' Jayne Ann Krentz
'A romance writer of mesmerising intensity, Mary Balogh has the gift of making a relationship seem utterly real and utterly compelling' Mary Jo Putney
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2026
207 people are currently reading
4968 people want to read
About the author
Mary Balogh
200 books6,363 followersMary Jenkins was born in 1944 in Swansea, Wales, UK. After graduating from university, moved to Saskatchewan, Canada, to teach high school English, on a two-year teaching contract in 1967. She married her Canadian husband, Robert Balogh, and had three children, Jacqueline, Christopher and Sian. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, music and knitting. She also enjoys watching tennis and curling.
Mary Balogh started writing in the evenings as a hobby. Her first book, a Regency love story, was published in 1985 as A Masked Deception under her married name. In 1988, she retired from teaching after 20 years to pursue her dream to write full-time. She has written more than seventy novels and almost thirty novellas since then, including the New York Times bestselling 'Slightly' sextet and 'Simply' quartet. She has won numerous awards, including Bestselling Historical of the Year from the Borders Group, and her novel Simply Magic was a finalist in the Quill Awards. She has won seven Waldenbooks Awards and two B. Dalton Awards for her bestselling novels, as well as a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mary Balogh started writing in the evenings as a hobby. Her first book, a Regency love story, was published in 1985 as A Masked Deception under her married name. In 1988, she retired from teaching after 20 years to pursue her dream to write full-time. She has written more than seventy novels and almost thirty novellas since then, including the New York Times bestselling 'Slightly' sextet and 'Simply' quartet. She has won numerous awards, including Bestselling Historical of the Year from the Borders Group, and her novel Simply Magic was a finalist in the Quill Awards. She has won seven Waldenbooks Awards and two B. Dalton Awards for her bestselling novels, as well as a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 16, 2025
Less repetitive than the last book, and it is very nice to have the Westcotts around. I struggle to understand what Balogh is trying to do with this Ravenswood series -- it feels like an attempt to really lean into cozy romance? Is that a thing? There is some angst, but most of that is characters tepidly contemplating the honorable steps they will take, regardless of their changing personal realities, and then when the solutions to their problems occur, the books becomes a full-on celebration of the tiny everyday moments, the yearly festival, the family members, and the love that suffuses both the Wares and the Westcotts. It's like a meditation on not taking life or love for granted. In that sense, I find it very soothing. It also just lacks spark, for want of a better word. There is still a great deal of repetition and rehashing of previous storylines, so if you are looking for a return to Balogh's previous writing style, this is not it. If you're looking to spend some time with beloved characters from the past, pull up a chair.
Advanced Readers' Copy provided by Edelweiss.
Advanced Readers' Copy provided by Edelweiss.
January 17, 2026
What a snooze fest. Hard to believe this is the same author who wrote Slightly Dangerous and The Secret Pearl.
January 8, 2026
4.5 Stars
Twenty-one-year-old Winnifred Cunningham, adopted daughter of Lady Camille and portrait painter Joel Cunningham, knows how lucky she is to have been taken into such a warm, boisterous family. She’s never believed marriage was necessary for her happiness, until her easy friendship with Owen Ware, the Earl’s youngest son, makes her wonder if marriage could be a happy possibility.
Colonel Nicholas Ware, Owen’s older brother, is preparing to propose to Grace Haviland. At thirty-four, he’s ready for a settled life filled with love and children. Grace is beautiful, poised, and perfectly suitable, yet Nicholas can’t seem to imagine true happiness with her. Something essential is missing.
When Winnifred and Nicholas meet, the spark between them is immediate and undeniable. They’re hardly an obvious match, both are on the cusp of commitments to others, and their age difference, but fate keeps placing them in each other’s path. With every encounter, their connection deepens.
Remember That Day was an absolute delight! This is the fifth book in the Ravenswood series, and I think you could get by reading this as a standalone, but you’d get more reading them in order because there’s a history with the Ware’s, a devastating event that made a huge impact in their lives.
Mary Balogh’s writing shines as she breathes life into her characters, their hopes, fears, longings, and quiet moments of vulnerability. Both Winnifred and Nicholas dealt with internal struggles, yet their bond became a source of comfort and clarity. The secondary cast, especially the many children with their charming side stories, added warmth and joy to every chapter.
Winnifred and Nicholas’ journey to love was tender, thoughtful, and deeply satisfying. Their story touched my heart from beginning to end!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Twenty-one-year-old Winnifred Cunningham, adopted daughter of Lady Camille and portrait painter Joel Cunningham, knows how lucky she is to have been taken into such a warm, boisterous family. She’s never believed marriage was necessary for her happiness, until her easy friendship with Owen Ware, the Earl’s youngest son, makes her wonder if marriage could be a happy possibility.
Colonel Nicholas Ware, Owen’s older brother, is preparing to propose to Grace Haviland. At thirty-four, he’s ready for a settled life filled with love and children. Grace is beautiful, poised, and perfectly suitable, yet Nicholas can’t seem to imagine true happiness with her. Something essential is missing.
When Winnifred and Nicholas meet, the spark between them is immediate and undeniable. They’re hardly an obvious match, both are on the cusp of commitments to others, and their age difference, but fate keeps placing them in each other’s path. With every encounter, their connection deepens.
Remember That Day was an absolute delight! This is the fifth book in the Ravenswood series, and I think you could get by reading this as a standalone, but you’d get more reading them in order because there’s a history with the Ware’s, a devastating event that made a huge impact in their lives.
Mary Balogh’s writing shines as she breathes life into her characters, their hopes, fears, longings, and quiet moments of vulnerability. Both Winnifred and Nicholas dealt with internal struggles, yet their bond became a source of comfort and clarity. The secondary cast, especially the many children with their charming side stories, added warmth and joy to every chapter.
Winnifred and Nicholas’ journey to love was tender, thoughtful, and deeply satisfying. Their story touched my heart from beginning to end!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
December 27, 2025
4.0 ⭐
[4:34pm — 27/12/2025]
First of all, I want to say this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. Genuinely couldn’t have. I want to thank LBBG, yourswithlovex, and the author for sending me a physical ARC of this book. I’m truly grateful!
Review time <3
Like I said, this book literally couldn’t have come at a more perfect time because I had no idea what regency book to read next. Genuinely thank goodness, because I lowkey might have stressed out a little too much on not finding a good regency book.
Despite this being the fifth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (as I did) and I’ll probably go read the other books at some point.
Winifred. Oh my darling. Her backstory made me sob a little. She has the heart of an angel and is so chaotic in the best way possible. She reminded me a lot of Eloise & Billie Bridgerton in a good way, so if you were a fan of To Sir Phillip with Love & Because of Miss Bridgerton, this is a book you would enjoy!
Win’s personality is amazing. The stress of being the eldest daughter with young twin siblings, a defensive brother (justifiable) and a deaf brother? I understand her baggage. But the relationship she had with her siblings especially Andrew, (the deaf brother) warms my heart truly.
And I love how Nicolas was around Win’s siblings. He had the kindest, sweetest soul, I can’t. Nicolas had me in a trance. I love him. Wowzers. He was amazing, better than I expected. Truly. He had an incredible personality, which fitted perfectly with Win’s.
Nicolas and Winifred are stupid as hell though. Just a little. They kept dancing around the fire, pursuing two different people. Nick with Grace and Win with Owen (Nick’s brother) only for the guy’s to propose and get declined.
I feel like there were moments where it could have been more angsty. I’d love Nick moving away from Grace (mutually) and yearn a little from a distance watching Owen and Winnie, despite them not being in love romantically at all. That would have been entertaining.
My fav scene was when they were sat together and Nicolas telling Winnie to remember that day (perfect use of the book title) because it was genuinely so heartwarming. The vulnerability they shared together meant everything to me.
Overall, I genuinely loved this and it was my first Mary Balogh book. It was fun, sweet, interesting. Loved the characters and the plot. It felt quite cosy, but then again angst in this book would have been lovely.
[4:55pm — 27/12/2025]
[4:34pm — 27/12/2025]
First of all, I want to say this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. Genuinely couldn’t have. I want to thank LBBG, yourswithlovex, and the author for sending me a physical ARC of this book. I’m truly grateful!
Review time <3
Like I said, this book literally couldn’t have come at a more perfect time because I had no idea what regency book to read next. Genuinely thank goodness, because I lowkey might have stressed out a little too much on not finding a good regency book.
Despite this being the fifth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone (as I did) and I’ll probably go read the other books at some point.
Winifred. Oh my darling. Her backstory made me sob a little. She has the heart of an angel and is so chaotic in the best way possible. She reminded me a lot of Eloise & Billie Bridgerton in a good way, so if you were a fan of To Sir Phillip with Love & Because of Miss Bridgerton, this is a book you would enjoy!
Win’s personality is amazing. The stress of being the eldest daughter with young twin siblings, a defensive brother (justifiable) and a deaf brother? I understand her baggage. But the relationship she had with her siblings especially Andrew, (the deaf brother) warms my heart truly.
And I love how Nicolas was around Win’s siblings. He had the kindest, sweetest soul, I can’t. Nicolas had me in a trance. I love him. Wowzers. He was amazing, better than I expected. Truly. He had an incredible personality, which fitted perfectly with Win’s.
Nicolas and Winifred are stupid as hell though. Just a little. They kept dancing around the fire, pursuing two different people. Nick with Grace and Win with Owen (Nick’s brother) only for the guy’s to propose and get declined.
I feel like there were moments where it could have been more angsty. I’d love Nick moving away from Grace (mutually) and yearn a little from a distance watching Owen and Winnie, despite them not being in love romantically at all. That would have been entertaining.
My fav scene was when they were sat together and Nicolas telling Winnie to remember that day (perfect use of the book title) because it was genuinely so heartwarming. The vulnerability they shared together meant everything to me.
Overall, I genuinely loved this and it was my first Mary Balogh book. It was fun, sweet, interesting. Loved the characters and the plot. It felt quite cosy, but then again angst in this book would have been lovely.
[4:55pm — 27/12/2025]
January 12, 2026
Loved it!!!
January 16, 2026
3 stars
I love Mary Balogh. I really do. But this is repetitive even by her standards, and devolves into just listing couples from previous books for a full chapter at the end.
Win and Nicholas had some cute moments (rowing to the island and exploring there), but overall, it didn’t feel like there was much to them.
I love Mary Balogh. I really do. But this is repetitive even by her standards, and devolves into just listing couples from previous books for a full chapter at the end.
Win and Nicholas had some cute moments (rowing to the island and exploring there), but overall, it didn’t feel like there was much to them.
November 27, 2025
Reviewed for Dear Author.
Link to come.
Link to come.
January 19, 2026
👒🐎👒🎩👒
Review:
She’s a pacifist; he’s a career soldier. They have established romance interests, but not with each other. A summer at Ravenswood will hold some surprises for them both.
Mary Balogh continues her Regency era Ravenswood series with a romance for second oldest son, Nicholas Ware. For fans of Mary Balogh’s Westcott series, we get a crossover because Winnifred Cunningham is the adopted daughter of the romance pair from Someone to Hold.
🌞In fact, Joel is hired by the Earl of Stratton (oldest Ware sibling) as a portrait artist which brings the Wares and Westcotts together for a time of summer ramblings and activities allowing Winnifred and Nicholas to enjoy the blushing confusion of attraction and connection while they are both determined to marry elsewhere – Nicholas to his general’s daughter and Winnifred to Nicholas’ younger brother, Owen.
💥I got a kick out of the bad first impressions set up and then the succeeding encounters that started changing their minds. I cheered them on as they individually came to terms with their pasts. The pace was gentle, the romance was tender, and the extended cast of family and friends gets equal time with the romance. My certificate in genealogy came in handy keeping all the relationships sorted out as I read. 😁 It didn’t hurt that I had previously read the Westcotts series and am caught up on the Ravenswood (Wares) series.
And, so, another comfy and relaxing low angst historical romance from a long-loved author. Not the place to start, but those who like gentle, less spicy romances with focus on slow-build relationships and family connections should slide Remember That Day (and the Ravenswood series) onto their reading stack.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
👒🐎👒🎩👒
#RememberThatDay #MaryBalogh #Ravenswood #HistoricalRomance #BerkleyRomance #RegencyRomance
My full review will post on my Instagram Page, @sophiarose1816 on 1.19.26.
Review:
She’s a pacifist; he’s a career soldier. They have established romance interests, but not with each other. A summer at Ravenswood will hold some surprises for them both.
Mary Balogh continues her Regency era Ravenswood series with a romance for second oldest son, Nicholas Ware. For fans of Mary Balogh’s Westcott series, we get a crossover because Winnifred Cunningham is the adopted daughter of the romance pair from Someone to Hold.
🌞In fact, Joel is hired by the Earl of Stratton (oldest Ware sibling) as a portrait artist which brings the Wares and Westcotts together for a time of summer ramblings and activities allowing Winnifred and Nicholas to enjoy the blushing confusion of attraction and connection while they are both determined to marry elsewhere – Nicholas to his general’s daughter and Winnifred to Nicholas’ younger brother, Owen.
💥I got a kick out of the bad first impressions set up and then the succeeding encounters that started changing their minds. I cheered them on as they individually came to terms with their pasts. The pace was gentle, the romance was tender, and the extended cast of family and friends gets equal time with the romance. My certificate in genealogy came in handy keeping all the relationships sorted out as I read. 😁 It didn’t hurt that I had previously read the Westcotts series and am caught up on the Ravenswood (Wares) series.
And, so, another comfy and relaxing low angst historical romance from a long-loved author. Not the place to start, but those who like gentle, less spicy romances with focus on slow-build relationships and family connections should slide Remember That Day (and the Ravenswood series) onto their reading stack.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
👒🐎👒🎩👒
#RememberThatDay #MaryBalogh #Ravenswood #HistoricalRomance #BerkleyRomance #RegencyRomance
My full review will post on my Instagram Page, @sophiarose1816 on 1.19.26.
January 6, 2026
I absolutely adored this story! Winifred was such a breath of fresh air - happy and lively, despite the trauma she'd been through early in life. Colonel The Honorable Nicholas Ware is the exact opposite of Winnie. He's a second son and born to be a military man. However, they find that they are slowly falling in love.
The only issue? (Well, not nearly the ONLY issue...) They are both spoken-for as they are falling for one another.
I will also mention that their is an author's note at the front of this novel noting that she is merging two families here. I have only read a few of Balogh's books here and there, so I was a bit intimidated going in once I read this, but I shouldn't have worried. The story was written in such a way that I had a good understanding of who fit where, at least for the most part. And it was so enjoyable overall that I wasn't worried about knowing each and every character, other than wanting to go and read some of their stories now!
This was one of those books that is just such a pleasant read that you want to sit in the sun and bask in the joy of it all afterward. It won't be long before I pick up another Balogh novel!
The only issue? (Well, not nearly the ONLY issue...) They are both spoken-for as they are falling for one another.
I will also mention that their is an author's note at the front of this novel noting that she is merging two families here. I have only read a few of Balogh's books here and there, so I was a bit intimidated going in once I read this, but I shouldn't have worried. The story was written in such a way that I had a good understanding of who fit where, at least for the most part. And it was so enjoyable overall that I wasn't worried about knowing each and every character, other than wanting to go and read some of their stories now!
This was one of those books that is just such a pleasant read that you want to sit in the sun and bask in the joy of it all afterward. It won't be long before I pick up another Balogh novel!
January 10, 2026
I was thrilled to start the year with this wonderful story publishing! It was an amazing treat to have Westcotts and Wares come together to witness and then celebrate Nicholas’s and Winifred’s falling in love. They are both amazing original MCs. Nicholas is (true to the form) another honorable noble Ware, who is all but betrothed to a woman he does not quite want and who does not quite want him. Meanwhile Winifred is hoping for a proposal from Nick’s younger brother Owen. All is resolved and hea arrives before you know it, in this heartwarming story full of love, laughter, children and happy couples we have all read about previously and adore. Also how about that Bertrand and Stephanie set up? Now I cannot wait for that installment!
January 7, 2026
This was a 3.5 for me.
Problems for me-
1. Too many characters. I thought about printing the family trees to have them in front of me as I read but realised that was almost as distracting as not knowing who people were. This led me to skimming lengthy passages when the vast cast intruded.
2. I didn’t need to be told quite so many times how plain Winifred was.
3. I was not very happy with the fact that essentially the hero would have married the OW even though he didn’t love her.
4. I all happened a little too quickly.
Problems for me-
1. Too many characters. I thought about printing the family trees to have them in front of me as I read but realised that was almost as distracting as not knowing who people were. This led me to skimming lengthy passages when the vast cast intruded.
2. I didn’t need to be told quite so many times how plain Winifred was.
3. I was not very happy with the fact that essentially the hero would have married the OW even though he didn’t love her.
4. I all happened a little too quickly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
3.75✨
This was an endearing story that was a total family affair.
I was not feeling the romance aspect of the story as a lot of the focus is on the family. The pacing was slow and there was some redundancy.
Overall, it is a sweet story about two people who seem unlikely to be a couple, falling in love.
This was an endearing story that was a total family affair.
I was not feeling the romance aspect of the story as a lot of the focus is on the family. The pacing was slow and there was some redundancy.
Overall, it is a sweet story about two people who seem unlikely to be a couple, falling in love.
January 8, 2026
Huge thank you to @berkleypub and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
.
If you are waiting for Bridgerton to get your regency romance fix look no further than this one! Winifred isn’t sure what her future holds but there’s no way she could have guessed that a solider would be her future, especially since she’s a pacifist. Winifred was expecting a proposal from the soldier’s brother but instead little by little finds herself drawn to Nicholas instead of his brother. I enjoyed this large cast of charming characters and the world created in this book. This one is out today.
.
.
If you are waiting for Bridgerton to get your regency romance fix look no further than this one! Winifred isn’t sure what her future holds but there’s no way she could have guessed that a solider would be her future, especially since she’s a pacifist. Winifred was expecting a proposal from the soldier’s brother but instead little by little finds herself drawn to Nicholas instead of his brother. I enjoyed this large cast of charming characters and the world created in this book. This one is out today.
.
December 19, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, and enjoyed it immensely.
January 13, 2026
Nicholas from the Ravenswood series and Winifred from the Westcott series cross paths in a story that blends both families’ worlds. Their first glimpse of each other comes at the Trooping the Colour parade, where Colonel Nicholas Ware cuts a striking figure in full dress uniform, leading the cavalry. Winifred attends with Owen Ware—Nicholas’s younger brother and her close friend—who she quietly hopes might one day propose.
They meet properly at Winifred’s come‑out ball. Nicholas enjoys dancing and talking with her and immediately understands why Owen is so fond of her. At thirty‑four, Nicholas has decided it’s time to marry and believes Grace Haviland, the beautiful and impeccably mannered daughter of his commanding officer, would make a suitable wife. Yet Grace is still grieving the loss of two former suitors, and Nicholas is unsure of her true feelings.
Winifred “Winnie” Cunningham, adopted by Camille and Joel Cunningham after being left at the orphanage as a baby, has grown up in a lively, loving household. Joel, a celebrated portrait artist, is invited along with his family by the Earl of Stratton to Ravenswood to paint his mother’s portrait. Grace and her parents are also invited—per Nicholas’s request. Over the two weeks leading up to the Ravenswood summer fête, Nicholas and Winifred spend increasing time together. As he gets to know her, Nicholas begins to see her quiet beauty, warmth, and honesty, and he finds himself unexpectedly envious of Owen.
Winnie, meanwhile, is startled by her immediate attraction to Nicholas. Their first conversation goes poorly—she impulsively equates soldiering with murder, leaving her mortified. She tries to make amends by promising him a dance at her ball, but the evening only reinforces the impossibility of anything between them. Nicholas is courting Grace, and Winnie reminds herself she wants Owen. Yet when her family is invited to Ravenswood for the fête, she realizes her feelings for Nicholas run deeper than she imagined.
Nicholas, convinced he should propose to Grace, arranges for her family to attend the fête so he can make his intentions known. But the more time he spends with Winnie, the more he questions his plans. She is too young for him and not conventionally beautiful—and she seems to dislike him. None of it explains why he can’t shake the sense that choosing Grace would be a mistake.
Winnie, twenty‑one and content with her place in her adoptive family, has never believed marriage essential to happiness. Her friendship with Owen has made her wonder if it could be, but she isn’t certain she loves him. Nicholas, with his noble background and military career, seems entirely out of reach. Still, the spark between them is undeniable, and every encounter at Ravenswood deepens their connection despite their best efforts to ignore it.
The romance unfolds slowly, shaped by two intertwined love triangles and the expectations pressing on both characters. Nicholas feels honor‑bound to Grace; Winnie believes she should marry Owen. Yet fate keeps pushing them together.
The story includes a few kisses and a single mention of the wedding night, which takes place behind closed doors. As with other books in both series, the large cast of secondary characters can feel overwhelming, and the extended descriptions of the summer fête—children’s races, music, maypole dancing, and the grand ball—are far more detailed than necessary. I would have preferred fewer festival activities and significantly fewer characters in order to focus more on the central romance.
Ultimately, this was probably my least favorite book in the series. It felt as though very little happened until nearly three-quarters of the way through, and I found myself repeatedly setting it aside in search of something more engaging. Honestly, if this had been written by almost any other author, I likely wouldn’t have finished it. I did appreciate the happy ending, but given how much I loved the earlier books in both series, this may be where I stop.
Read all my reviews: https://stacyalesi.com/
They meet properly at Winifred’s come‑out ball. Nicholas enjoys dancing and talking with her and immediately understands why Owen is so fond of her. At thirty‑four, Nicholas has decided it’s time to marry and believes Grace Haviland, the beautiful and impeccably mannered daughter of his commanding officer, would make a suitable wife. Yet Grace is still grieving the loss of two former suitors, and Nicholas is unsure of her true feelings.
Winifred “Winnie” Cunningham, adopted by Camille and Joel Cunningham after being left at the orphanage as a baby, has grown up in a lively, loving household. Joel, a celebrated portrait artist, is invited along with his family by the Earl of Stratton to Ravenswood to paint his mother’s portrait. Grace and her parents are also invited—per Nicholas’s request. Over the two weeks leading up to the Ravenswood summer fête, Nicholas and Winifred spend increasing time together. As he gets to know her, Nicholas begins to see her quiet beauty, warmth, and honesty, and he finds himself unexpectedly envious of Owen.
Winnie, meanwhile, is startled by her immediate attraction to Nicholas. Their first conversation goes poorly—she impulsively equates soldiering with murder, leaving her mortified. She tries to make amends by promising him a dance at her ball, but the evening only reinforces the impossibility of anything between them. Nicholas is courting Grace, and Winnie reminds herself she wants Owen. Yet when her family is invited to Ravenswood for the fête, she realizes her feelings for Nicholas run deeper than she imagined.
Nicholas, convinced he should propose to Grace, arranges for her family to attend the fête so he can make his intentions known. But the more time he spends with Winnie, the more he questions his plans. She is too young for him and not conventionally beautiful—and she seems to dislike him. None of it explains why he can’t shake the sense that choosing Grace would be a mistake.
Winnie, twenty‑one and content with her place in her adoptive family, has never believed marriage essential to happiness. Her friendship with Owen has made her wonder if it could be, but she isn’t certain she loves him. Nicholas, with his noble background and military career, seems entirely out of reach. Still, the spark between them is undeniable, and every encounter at Ravenswood deepens their connection despite their best efforts to ignore it.
The romance unfolds slowly, shaped by two intertwined love triangles and the expectations pressing on both characters. Nicholas feels honor‑bound to Grace; Winnie believes she should marry Owen. Yet fate keeps pushing them together.
The story includes a few kisses and a single mention of the wedding night, which takes place behind closed doors. As with other books in both series, the large cast of secondary characters can feel overwhelming, and the extended descriptions of the summer fête—children’s races, music, maypole dancing, and the grand ball—are far more detailed than necessary. I would have preferred fewer festival activities and significantly fewer characters in order to focus more on the central romance.
Ultimately, this was probably my least favorite book in the series. It felt as though very little happened until nearly three-quarters of the way through, and I found myself repeatedly setting it aside in search of something more engaging. Honestly, if this had been written by almost any other author, I likely wouldn’t have finished it. I did appreciate the happy ending, but given how much I loved the earlier books in both series, this may be where I stop.
Read all my reviews: https://stacyalesi.com/
January 10, 2026
3.5 to 4 stars. A pleasant if not particularly outstanding addition to the Ravenswood series, but it's also a crossover with the Westcott series. The MMC, Nicholas, is a younger son of the late, infamous Earl of Stratton (from the Ravenswood series). The FMC, Winifred, is an adopted daughter of Camille from the Westcott series, now happily married to artist Joel. (The main couple from Someone to Hold). I thought the Westcott series was finished, but I guess this is kinda a next-gen addition. There are nice revisits with Joel and Camille and their assortment of children, too. It could be read as a standalone though, I guess.
This is a slow-burn romance between two very different personalities. Nicholas is a 34-year-old cavalry colonel. He fought during the Peninsular War and at Waterloo, but now works in a London-based military role. Win first sees him in full dress uniform on his enormous black horse at the grand Trooping of the Colour parade. They soon meet face-to-face, and before too long end up staying at the same summer house party.
Unlike Nicholas with his noble background, 21-year-old Win is a 'nobody'. Abandoned as a baby, she will never know who her biological family was, but she has made a happy life with her adoptive parents. No beauty, she accepts herself for who she is. Outspoken, unpretentious, a 'straight-shooter', she lives life fully and happily.
The plot line is a triangle, or perhaps two triangles, or even a rectangle! Nicholas wishes to marry, and after giving up on finding love, has found a suitable bride, Grace. His new attraction to Win is put aside, as he feels honour bound - everyone expects him to offer for Grace.
Win has formed a friendship with Owen, Nicholas' younger brother. They like each other a lot. She's not sure whether she's in love, but she hopes Owen will propose.
As a reader, I don't usually like this kind of setup. Too much potential for confusion and angst. But luckily, Balogh handles the plotting well, and the relationships are untangled without too much drama. Win and Nicholas' romance is convincing enough, but it's definitely a slow-burn though, and, unusually for Balogh, it's also pretty much a clean read. A few kisses, and one mild, non-descriptive/non-explicit sex scene on the wedding night.
As with other books in this and the Westcott series, there are at times just way too many secondary/minor characters floating around. Balogh does acknowledge this somewhat by giving a list of characters for reference. Personally I'd prefer that a few of these characters just dropped out. They don't need to pop up in every book.
There's also a bit too much description of all the fun to be had at the summer festival. Too much detail for me - I'd prefer a bit more development of the romance and storyline rather than read about all of the fun events and who participated in each one.
But still, it was overall an enjoyable read, with interesting characters and a plot that wasn't just the usual cliche. The romance was low-key but sweet. Not my fav Balogh book, but still worth the read.
This is a slow-burn romance between two very different personalities. Nicholas is a 34-year-old cavalry colonel. He fought during the Peninsular War and at Waterloo, but now works in a London-based military role. Win first sees him in full dress uniform on his enormous black horse at the grand Trooping of the Colour parade. They soon meet face-to-face, and before too long end up staying at the same summer house party.
Unlike Nicholas with his noble background, 21-year-old Win is a 'nobody'. Abandoned as a baby, she will never know who her biological family was, but she has made a happy life with her adoptive parents. No beauty, she accepts herself for who she is. Outspoken, unpretentious, a 'straight-shooter', she lives life fully and happily.
The plot line is a triangle, or perhaps two triangles, or even a rectangle! Nicholas wishes to marry, and after giving up on finding love, has found a suitable bride, Grace. His new attraction to Win is put aside, as he feels honour bound - everyone expects him to offer for Grace.
Win has formed a friendship with Owen, Nicholas' younger brother. They like each other a lot. She's not sure whether she's in love, but she hopes Owen will propose.
As a reader, I don't usually like this kind of setup. Too much potential for confusion and angst. But luckily, Balogh handles the plotting well, and the relationships are untangled without too much drama. Win and Nicholas' romance is convincing enough, but it's definitely a slow-burn though, and, unusually for Balogh, it's also pretty much a clean read. A few kisses, and one mild, non-descriptive/non-explicit sex scene on the wedding night.
As with other books in this and the Westcott series, there are at times just way too many secondary/minor characters floating around. Balogh does acknowledge this somewhat by giving a list of characters for reference. Personally I'd prefer that a few of these characters just dropped out. They don't need to pop up in every book.
There's also a bit too much description of all the fun to be had at the summer festival. Too much detail for me - I'd prefer a bit more development of the romance and storyline rather than read about all of the fun events and who participated in each one.
But still, it was overall an enjoyable read, with interesting characters and a plot that wasn't just the usual cliche. The romance was low-key but sweet. Not my fav Balogh book, but still worth the read.
January 18, 2026
“What is it that ties you to the earth?” he asked her.
A strange question. He spoke softly, and for a few unguarded moments she allowed tears to trickle down her cheeks while she hugged her legs more tightly.
“I have no wings,” she said.
This for me is a snippet of how profound Mary Balogh went with this book as is the custom with her. The reader find himself Remember that day too which can be more than one 😉.
I have loved all the conversations that felt as real as the characters she people the book with, per usual, again. I was expecting a dashing, even arrogant hero, knowing that Nicholas from the onset took much after his father. But I have to say that his personality and Winnifred’s made for a great story nonetheless. And of course there is a reason for that that readers of previous books might suspect. I have only praise to give to Winnifred’s character. She is very credible, in the sense that she is a bit of everyone of us, grateful for many things in her life, but hoping for others too 🙂. Also, if you’ve read her before, you know that MB is undaunted to tackle impossible situations as she did in this story, however, I would not have been against a little of « more » splash instead of tame and sorry but amiable resolution … she has done so marvellously well in her earliest publications after all 🙆♀️
Now for the intimacy! I would gently request that Mary Balogh and co expand more in upcoming romances. We need to read about the culmination of the longing, the wait and dare I say the lust that the heroes definitely feel for one another. In fact, I have great expectations for Stephanie and Bertrand (Goodness, what a hanger that was !! ) and I would not keep quiet if there is not at least 3 sex scenes 🫣
And I am sensing a romance between Owen and Grace. Am I wrong? If I am, that would be splendid, she has a lot of potential, much to unravel with her .
And since the Wares of Ravenswood and Boscombe mix so well with the Westcott, should we dare to wish for the Bedwyn’s offspring (at least Wulfric and Christine’s children - pretty please) to make an appearance???🤭
Is Sarah a worthy enough candidate for the heir to the ducal seat of Bewcastle or Netherby. Might I be so bold as to suggest even the seat of Tresham or Ridgeway? Hahaha, MB, you owe us on that last one, we did not have a bare crumb of an epilogue of Adam and Fleur’s story, one of my ALL TIME favourites by yours truly !
Thank you for this gem, very inspiring for would be authors as humble me :)
A strange question. He spoke softly, and for a few unguarded moments she allowed tears to trickle down her cheeks while she hugged her legs more tightly.
“I have no wings,” she said.
This for me is a snippet of how profound Mary Balogh went with this book as is the custom with her. The reader find himself Remember that day too which can be more than one 😉.
I have loved all the conversations that felt as real as the characters she people the book with, per usual, again. I was expecting a dashing, even arrogant hero, knowing that Nicholas from the onset took much after his father. But I have to say that his personality and Winnifred’s made for a great story nonetheless. And of course there is a reason for that that readers of previous books might suspect. I have only praise to give to Winnifred’s character. She is very credible, in the sense that she is a bit of everyone of us, grateful for many things in her life, but hoping for others too 🙂. Also, if you’ve read her before, you know that MB is undaunted to tackle impossible situations as she did in this story, however, I would not have been against a little of « more » splash instead of tame and sorry but amiable resolution … she has done so marvellously well in her earliest publications after all 🙆♀️
Now for the intimacy! I would gently request that Mary Balogh and co expand more in upcoming romances. We need to read about the culmination of the longing, the wait and dare I say the lust that the heroes definitely feel for one another. In fact, I have great expectations for Stephanie and Bertrand (Goodness, what a hanger that was !! ) and I would not keep quiet if there is not at least 3 sex scenes 🫣
And I am sensing a romance between Owen and Grace. Am I wrong? If I am, that would be splendid, she has a lot of potential, much to unravel with her .
And since the Wares of Ravenswood and Boscombe mix so well with the Westcott, should we dare to wish for the Bedwyn’s offspring (at least Wulfric and Christine’s children - pretty please) to make an appearance???🤭
Is Sarah a worthy enough candidate for the heir to the ducal seat of Bewcastle or Netherby. Might I be so bold as to suggest even the seat of Tresham or Ridgeway? Hahaha, MB, you owe us on that last one, we did not have a bare crumb of an epilogue of Adam and Fleur’s story, one of my ALL TIME favourites by yours truly !
Thank you for this gem, very inspiring for would be authors as humble me :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While visiting London with her adopted father, Winifred “Winnie” Cunningham, she attends the Trooping the Colour parade for the King’s birthday with her “uncle” Bertrand, the Viscount Watley and her friend Owen Ware, the youngest brother of the Earl of Stratton (and the man she secretly hopes to marry). She is introduced to his older brother; Col. Nicholas Ware and she is shocked at the instant attraction she feels to the man. But they clash almost immediately when she practically insults him by saying being a soldier is the same as being a murderer. She is mortified by her actions and tries to make amends by agreeing to grant him a dance at the upcoming ball. But after an uncomfortable interaction at the ball, where she learns he is courting the beautiful and poised Miss Grace Haviland, she has to remind herself that they have nothing in common and she wants to marry his brother. But when the Earl invites her family to visit Ravenswood and to stay for the village fete, she realizes her feelings for Nick are deeper than she thought and it is hopeless as they are both almost betrothed to others. So why can’t she stop wanting what she knows she could never have?
Nicholas “Nick” Ware has decided at the ripe old age of 34, it is time for him to marry, and he has decided that the lovely daughter of his commanding officer is the perfect choice for a bride. He isn’t in love with her, but she will be a wonderful wife and mother. He asks his brother to invite her and her parents to Ravenswood for the fete and plans to propose to her and make the announcement at the ball. But he finds himself drawn to Winnie, which is ridiculous, she is much too young for him, has no connections, isn’t a beauty and she dislikes him, besides he is almost betrothed. So why can’t he shake the feeling that he is making a huge mistake?
In this installment of the Ravenswood series, the author treats readers to a crossover story, Nicholas from the Ravenswood series and Winifred from the Westcott series. I enjoyed this gentle romance, but having read the other books in both series, I will agree with other reviewers that noted that there was a lot of repetition and the story did move slowly. I appreciate that the author was trying to give the reader plenty of backstory, but I think it was a little much, especially for those who have read the previous books. I loved Nick and was happy that he found his HEA, but I found Winnie a bit harder to like at first, she is abrasive and borders on rude, but she does have a good heart and is loyal to her family, so in the end, she won me over. I can’t say when these two fell in love, but by the end of the book, I did believe they were perfect for each other. Overall, this was a good story, but not my favorite of the series. This is the fifth book in the Ravenswood series, but the author gives more than enough backstory to read this book as a standalone.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Nicholas “Nick” Ware has decided at the ripe old age of 34, it is time for him to marry, and he has decided that the lovely daughter of his commanding officer is the perfect choice for a bride. He isn’t in love with her, but she will be a wonderful wife and mother. He asks his brother to invite her and her parents to Ravenswood for the fete and plans to propose to her and make the announcement at the ball. But he finds himself drawn to Winnie, which is ridiculous, she is much too young for him, has no connections, isn’t a beauty and she dislikes him, besides he is almost betrothed. So why can’t he shake the feeling that he is making a huge mistake?
In this installment of the Ravenswood series, the author treats readers to a crossover story, Nicholas from the Ravenswood series and Winifred from the Westcott series. I enjoyed this gentle romance, but having read the other books in both series, I will agree with other reviewers that noted that there was a lot of repetition and the story did move slowly. I appreciate that the author was trying to give the reader plenty of backstory, but I think it was a little much, especially for those who have read the previous books. I loved Nick and was happy that he found his HEA, but I found Winnie a bit harder to like at first, she is abrasive and borders on rude, but she does have a good heart and is loyal to her family, so in the end, she won me over. I can’t say when these two fell in love, but by the end of the book, I did believe they were perfect for each other. Overall, this was a good story, but not my favorite of the series. This is the fifth book in the Ravenswood series, but the author gives more than enough backstory to read this book as a standalone.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
July 31, 2025
This one’s a gem. It has Winifred (Westcott family) and Nicholas (Ware family) and it’s especially fun because both of them are almost engaged to others. I wondered how it would all play out and I wasn’t disappointed. The author gives us a summary of the characters from the two families which really helps because there are a lot of them between the ten Westcott books and five Wares of Ravenswood books.
Winifred and Nicholas first see each other at the Trooping the Colour parade and Nicholas is dazzling in his uniform, leading his horse cavalry. Winifred is there with Owen, Nicholas’s younger brother, who she is close to. They meet again at Winifred’s come out ball. Nicholas enjoys his time dancing and talking with her and can see why Owen likes her. Nicholas is thirty-four and would like to start a family. He is thinking of offering for Grace who is his general’s daughter and very beautiful with perfect manners but she is grieving the loss of two beaus and he wonders how she really feels about him (He is of course, cheerful, kind and exceedingly handsome.)
Winifred was adopted by Camille and Joel (Someone to Hold). Joel is a famous portrait artist and Devlin the Earl of Stratton, invites him and his family to Ravenswood to paint his mother’s portrait. He also invites Grace and her parents to join them (for Nicholas). They all spend two weeks together leading up to the summer fete and as Nicholas gets to know Winifred, he sees how beautiful she really is and envies Owen. The fete is festive with lots of family, children’s races, music, maypole dancing and a grand ball. I won’t give away any details of the ‘day’ that the title refers to because I was a little surprised by it. I also don’t want to reveal more about how Winifred and Nicholas end up together, but it’s well done! I would have loved a little longer ending and there were times I was overwhelmed by all of the family members, but this was a beautiful story and I look forward to Owen and Stephanie’s stories. My full review will be at All About Romance closer to the review date, 01/06.
Winifred and Nicholas first see each other at the Trooping the Colour parade and Nicholas is dazzling in his uniform, leading his horse cavalry. Winifred is there with Owen, Nicholas’s younger brother, who she is close to. They meet again at Winifred’s come out ball. Nicholas enjoys his time dancing and talking with her and can see why Owen likes her. Nicholas is thirty-four and would like to start a family. He is thinking of offering for Grace who is his general’s daughter and very beautiful with perfect manners but she is grieving the loss of two beaus and he wonders how she really feels about him (He is of course, cheerful, kind and exceedingly handsome.)
Winifred was adopted by Camille and Joel (Someone to Hold). Joel is a famous portrait artist and Devlin the Earl of Stratton, invites him and his family to Ravenswood to paint his mother’s portrait. He also invites Grace and her parents to join them (for Nicholas). They all spend two weeks together leading up to the summer fete and as Nicholas gets to know Winifred, he sees how beautiful she really is and envies Owen. The fete is festive with lots of family, children’s races, music, maypole dancing and a grand ball. I won’t give away any details of the ‘day’ that the title refers to because I was a little surprised by it. I also don’t want to reveal more about how Winifred and Nicholas end up together, but it’s well done! I would have loved a little longer ending and there were times I was overwhelmed by all of the family members, but this was a beautiful story and I look forward to Owen and Stephanie’s stories. My full review will be at All About Romance closer to the review date, 01/06.
January 8, 2026
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 Berkley Publishing 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗲-𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Mary Balogh focuses her stories on families. She writes family dynamics and especially love and acceptance within the families like very few people do. And perhaps because of that, especially in recent times, her romance books are kind of unbalanced because the romance isn’t the focus of the story until it is very well advanced.
That is great for people who have already read her books, however, if I were a new reader I would probably misunderstand her work and get bored. Mary Balogh writes slow romance from the nothing to the everything. And you can’t feel chemistry between the main couple until later in the story. You’re more often than not reading about past romances in the families, children’s shenanigans, girl friendships, families having holidays with other families for the first half of her book.
In this case we also have a crossover of two of her latest series which would be confusing enough if Balogh herself hadn’t thought of that, fortunately she did and in the foreword she gives a brief explanation of the characters from past books and their relationships with other characters that might appear or be referenced in the book. I haven’t read anything like that before and I think it is a great idea that will help readers feel the ground on their feet and firmly.
Over the years, Mary Balogh reminds me more and more of Jane Austen if not in style, because Austen was unique, at least in subjects, although Balogh is less bitter than Jane and less prone to criticism. Her books are slice of life depicting rural scenes, village life, friendship and family bonding in a way that makes the reader want to be included in the story. And she manages to include them, and that’s what I like the most about her books. Love in all of its varieties, acceptance, kindness and honesty.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Mary Balogh focuses her stories on families. She writes family dynamics and especially love and acceptance within the families like very few people do. And perhaps because of that, especially in recent times, her romance books are kind of unbalanced because the romance isn’t the focus of the story until it is very well advanced.
That is great for people who have already read her books, however, if I were a new reader I would probably misunderstand her work and get bored. Mary Balogh writes slow romance from the nothing to the everything. And you can’t feel chemistry between the main couple until later in the story. You’re more often than not reading about past romances in the families, children’s shenanigans, girl friendships, families having holidays with other families for the first half of her book.
In this case we also have a crossover of two of her latest series which would be confusing enough if Balogh herself hadn’t thought of that, fortunately she did and in the foreword she gives a brief explanation of the characters from past books and their relationships with other characters that might appear or be referenced in the book. I haven’t read anything like that before and I think it is a great idea that will help readers feel the ground on their feet and firmly.
Over the years, Mary Balogh reminds me more and more of Jane Austen if not in style, because Austen was unique, at least in subjects, although Balogh is less bitter than Jane and less prone to criticism. Her books are slice of life depicting rural scenes, village life, friendship and family bonding in a way that makes the reader want to be included in the story. And she manages to include them, and that’s what I like the most about her books. Love in all of its varieties, acceptance, kindness and honesty.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another delightful Ravenwoods series, so very well done by Mary Balogh; especially because of the Wescotts and Ravenwoods. Winifred Cunningham strikes up a friendship with Owen Ware and hopes it will turn into something more. When Owen introduces his elder brother, Winifred begins to fall in love with the older brother; Colonel Nicholas Ware’ and a slow burn attraction between them starts. Nicholas and Winifred are unwillingly thrown together on several occasions, until they realize the passion that drives them is because of their attraction.
Nicholas Ware has decided at the ripe old age of 34, it is time for him to marry. He isn’t in love with Grace Haviland, but she will be a wonderful wife and mother. However, Nicholas finds himself drawn to Winnie. Winifred (Westcott family) and Nicholas (Ware family) find that they are almost engaged to others, until they realize they both are in love with each other.
I really loved Nick, as he discovered the true HEA. I liked Winnie, and she also found herself falling hard for Nicholas. They turned out to be perfect for each other.
Very nice review that was a wonderful story. Once again, Mary Balogh gives us a terrific story line, with a couple that was destined to fall in love with each other. Very well done by Mary Balogh.
Nicholas Ware has decided at the ripe old age of 34, it is time for him to marry. He isn’t in love with Grace Haviland, but she will be a wonderful wife and mother. However, Nicholas finds himself drawn to Winnie. Winifred (Westcott family) and Nicholas (Ware family) find that they are almost engaged to others, until they realize they both are in love with each other.
I really loved Nick, as he discovered the true HEA. I liked Winnie, and she also found herself falling hard for Nicholas. They turned out to be perfect for each other.
Very nice review that was a wonderful story. Once again, Mary Balogh gives us a terrific story line, with a couple that was destined to fall in love with each other. Very well done by Mary Balogh.
January 13, 2026
𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐃𝐀𝐘
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐡
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐑𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝 #𝟓
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐲 | 𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞
Thank you so much @berkleyromance @mary.balogh, @berkleypub & @penguinrandomhouse for the chance to return to Ravenswood with this story.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
Mary Balogh once again proves why she’s one of the reigning queens of Regency romance. Remember That Day (Ravenswood #5) is everything I love about her work—graceful prose, emotional depth, and that slow, breathtaking build from conflict to connection.
Winifred Cunningham’s honesty and impulsive spirit meet their match in Colonel Nicholas Ware, a stoic, battle-worn soldier whose quiet honor and vulnerability completely stole my heart. A warrior and a pacifist should never work on paper, yet their journey feels utterly inevitable, every conversation and stolen look loaded with meaning.
I also loved seeing familiar faces from the Westcott world alongside beloved Ravenswood characters—it felt like stepping into a grand Regency reunion, and long-time readers will catch all those emotional echoes. Lush, tender, and quietly powerful, this is classic Mary Balogh: a love story that’s not just about falling in love, but choosing it. Lush, tender, and quietly powerful—Remember That Day is classic Mary Balogh at her best. A soulful, mature love story that lingers long after the last page.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐡
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐑𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝 #𝟓
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐲 | 𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞
Thank you so much @berkleyromance @mary.balogh, @berkleypub & @penguinrandomhouse for the chance to return to Ravenswood with this story.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
Mary Balogh once again proves why she’s one of the reigning queens of Regency romance. Remember That Day (Ravenswood #5) is everything I love about her work—graceful prose, emotional depth, and that slow, breathtaking build from conflict to connection.
Winifred Cunningham’s honesty and impulsive spirit meet their match in Colonel Nicholas Ware, a stoic, battle-worn soldier whose quiet honor and vulnerability completely stole my heart. A warrior and a pacifist should never work on paper, yet their journey feels utterly inevitable, every conversation and stolen look loaded with meaning.
I also loved seeing familiar faces from the Westcott world alongside beloved Ravenswood characters—it felt like stepping into a grand Regency reunion, and long-time readers will catch all those emotional echoes. Lush, tender, and quietly powerful, this is classic Mary Balogh: a love story that’s not just about falling in love, but choosing it. Lush, tender, and quietly powerful—Remember That Day is classic Mary Balogh at her best. A soulful, mature love story that lingers long after the last page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Just a really lovely, easy to read, romantic story about two seemingly opposite people finding common ground (and, of course, love) despite the things that might draw them apart.
I enjoy Mary Balogh’s books immensely—they are written with warmth and a nod to modernity without completely taking the reader out of the regency setting—and this one is no exception. I will admit that there was an element of repetitiveness to the inner thoughts of both Nicholas and Winifred, but it did not lessen my desire to read and read and read until they had made their way safely to happily ever after.
The joy of this book comes from the welcome embrace of family—both hero and heroine have loving ones who appreciate and adore them—and of friendship. Friendship that is not diminished by two people unexpectedly finding love with one another. I did worry about that aspect, for I am not one for angst or love triangles, but it was deftly handled in a way that made my soft heart and easily manipulated emotions smile.
I’m looking forward to the continuation of this series, whether Ware or Westcott based, and in the meantime, believe it’s time to do some rereading of some of my Mary Balogh favorites.
I enjoy Mary Balogh’s books immensely—they are written with warmth and a nod to modernity without completely taking the reader out of the regency setting—and this one is no exception. I will admit that there was an element of repetitiveness to the inner thoughts of both Nicholas and Winifred, but it did not lessen my desire to read and read and read until they had made their way safely to happily ever after.
The joy of this book comes from the welcome embrace of family—both hero and heroine have loving ones who appreciate and adore them—and of friendship. Friendship that is not diminished by two people unexpectedly finding love with one another. I did worry about that aspect, for I am not one for angst or love triangles, but it was deftly handled in a way that made my soft heart and easily manipulated emotions smile.
I’m looking forward to the continuation of this series, whether Ware or Westcott based, and in the meantime, believe it’s time to do some rereading of some of my Mary Balogh favorites.
January 7, 2026
Remember That Day by Mary Balogh is a delightful Regency Romance. The story is actually part of two series, but the author does a great job giving you the back story you need to easily understand the story.
I was looking for a Regency Romance to start off my year and this was the perfect book! I loved the engaging characters, Regency setting, and the sweet romance. The story had all things Regency with a house party, a Summer Festival, a London Ball, and all the complicated Regency society, friendships and rules explained so well.
Winifred Cunningham was endearing, kind, full of charm and a realism that she made her way into my heart. Nicholas is the perfect hero and I appreciated his introspective character. This dual POV made this love story a fun one to watch unfold. There were many interesting side characters giving the story depth.
I highly recommend this closed-door Regency romance. It was the perfect book to start off my new year with. I very highly recommend.
I was gifted a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
I was looking for a Regency Romance to start off my year and this was the perfect book! I loved the engaging characters, Regency setting, and the sweet romance. The story had all things Regency with a house party, a Summer Festival, a London Ball, and all the complicated Regency society, friendships and rules explained so well.
Winifred Cunningham was endearing, kind, full of charm and a realism that she made her way into my heart. Nicholas is the perfect hero and I appreciated his introspective character. This dual POV made this love story a fun one to watch unfold. There were many interesting side characters giving the story depth.
I highly recommend this closed-door Regency romance. It was the perfect book to start off my new year with. I very highly recommend.
I was gifted a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
January 12, 2026
What a good idea to have a quick recap of the Westcott and Ware storyline, as well as family trees. I had read them all of course as, for me, any book by Mary Balogh's is a go to book. However, I was glad of the reminders, even in the main body of the text. In fact, the Wescott dynasty is so intricate that I felt on occasion some of the less prominent characters could have been omitted. The guests list at Winifred and Nicholas's wedding left me feeling rather dizzy.
However, what was enjoyable was the time it took them to get to that day. A day they will remember, of course. Not only was the title well chosen given Winifred and Nicholas' relationship, but several references were made to it during the novel and I found that very pleasing. Of course, the story is all very predictable and its unfolding is not what keeps me turning the pages. Rather it is the way Mary B. deals with her characters. Whether crucial to the story or only providing background colour, they are all very engaging and likeable. I really feel I want to learn more about what happens to the little deaf boy or the troubled Robbie- and maybe we will in the next instalment of the Ravenswood adventures. So who is going to be at the centre of the next book, Owen or Stephanie or both? I look forward to it.
However, what was enjoyable was the time it took them to get to that day. A day they will remember, of course. Not only was the title well chosen given Winifred and Nicholas' relationship, but several references were made to it during the novel and I found that very pleasing. Of course, the story is all very predictable and its unfolding is not what keeps me turning the pages. Rather it is the way Mary B. deals with her characters. Whether crucial to the story or only providing background colour, they are all very engaging and likeable. I really feel I want to learn more about what happens to the little deaf boy or the troubled Robbie- and maybe we will in the next instalment of the Ravenswood adventures. So who is going to be at the centre of the next book, Owen or Stephanie or both? I look forward to it.
November 6, 2025
This book is a crossover between the Ravenswood and the Westcott series and as such there are a *lot* of characters. Balogh starts off with a family tree which was sort of helpful but there were still so many characters it was hard to keep track. I've read the rest of the Ravenswood books and one of the Westcott books but I was still a bit confused as to who everyone was. And even though Balogh also explained who the main characters were, I went through a lot of the book confused as to who was supposed to be getting togehter.
As in the rest of the series, a lot of time was spent on explaining who everyone was, and giving a plot line to a number of characters versus just the two main characters. While I enjoyed those storylines, it felt more like a straight up fiction book than a romance since the romance between Nicholas and Winifred was on equal footing as everyone else's storyline in the book.
While I did enjoy Winifred and Nicholas' romance, the background of Winifred's family made me more interested in reading the book where her parents create their blended family than following along with Winifred and Nicholas. So my feeling about the most recent Balogh books I've read is that they would be better served as "women's fiction" books versus straight up "romance" and they would be more enjoyable without the expectation that the romance will be front and center (and that it will be relatively "clean" which is kind of out of fashion in romance right now.
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for an advanced copy. I am giving an honest review.
As in the rest of the series, a lot of time was spent on explaining who everyone was, and giving a plot line to a number of characters versus just the two main characters. While I enjoyed those storylines, it felt more like a straight up fiction book than a romance since the romance between Nicholas and Winifred was on equal footing as everyone else's storyline in the book.
While I did enjoy Winifred and Nicholas' romance, the background of Winifred's family made me more interested in reading the book where her parents create their blended family than following along with Winifred and Nicholas. So my feeling about the most recent Balogh books I've read is that they would be better served as "women's fiction" books versus straight up "romance" and they would be more enjoyable without the expectation that the romance will be front and center (and that it will be relatively "clean" which is kind of out of fashion in romance right now.
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for an advanced copy. I am giving an honest review.
October 31, 2025
Mary Balogh ranks up there with Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer as one of the greatest Regency writers of all time. This book was especially delightful because it combined characters from two of my favorite series: The Ravenwoods and The Wescotts. Miss Winifred Cunningham is an unlikely heroine who thinks she is plain. She strikes up a friendship with Owen Ware and hopes it will turn into something more. What Winifred doesn’t realize is that she’s falling in love with his older brother, the handsome and charming Colonel Nicholas Ware. Both main characters have to face trauma from their pasts to move forward with love. This romance is tender, sweet, and full of family!
For my gentle readers, I would classify this book as “closed door.” The consummation is mentioned briefly with no details.
For my gentle readers, I would classify this book as “closed door.” The consummation is mentioned briefly with no details.
January 13, 2026
I consider Mary Balogh as one of my favourite authors of all time, that's why I keep reaching for her books, she always writes complex and loveable characters but Since Ben's book I just think they are just not great.
I did not liked been told so many times Winnie was plan looking.
This book particularly was hard for me to finish and although I wish I would have liked this, it was not the case.
At the end she asks How many people have you killed? -to a military man in the Napolean wars-. That's just straight down silly.
I do not ask for historical acuracy, In fact I read to get off my mind so many horrible things happening right now, but there were parts that just made want to Drop this.
I don't know if I'll keep reading Mary's books and I am so sorry for it.
Sorry if I misspell anything, I speak spanish.
I did not liked been told so many times Winnie was plan looking.
This book particularly was hard for me to finish and although I wish I would have liked this, it was not the case.
At the end she asks How many people have you killed? -to a military man in the Napolean wars-. That's just straight down silly.
I do not ask for historical acuracy, In fact I read to get off my mind so many horrible things happening right now, but there were parts that just made want to Drop this.
I don't know if I'll keep reading Mary's books and I am so sorry for it.
Sorry if I misspell anything, I speak spanish.
November 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. It was so wonderful to be back in the world of these two families. I thought the slow burn and age gap romance was written so great. I was so happy to get to see Winifred get her happily ever after. Sometimes I have a hard time with the age gap romances, but I could really get behind this one with the way it was written. I really loved getting to see Winifreds younger siblings. I hope we get more of her brothers in future books. You do not need to read the previous books in the series to enjoy this one, but I think you will like it even more if you do read those first. This book put me in such a happy state when I was done with it. That is the best thing a book can do for me and I will highly recommend it.
August 23, 2025
Oh, Mary!
If you love lengthy internal and external monologues, great characters, slow burn, lots of family and friends interactions, and a slower pace of life, Mary Balogh is for you.
Her books are deep dives into another way of life centuries ago so they make for great escapism. And of course they are romantic.
They are unputdownable for me.
There is a family tree for both the Wares of Ravenswood and the Westcotts with descriptions of all the characters with how they will play out in Remember That Day.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you love lengthy internal and external monologues, great characters, slow burn, lots of family and friends interactions, and a slower pace of life, Mary Balogh is for you.
Her books are deep dives into another way of life centuries ago so they make for great escapism. And of course they are romantic.
They are unputdownable for me.
There is a family tree for both the Wares of Ravenswood and the Westcotts with descriptions of all the characters with how they will play out in Remember That Day.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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