Step into the heart of Regency England, where gilded carriages whisk past cobbled streets and whispered secrets swirl amidst opulent ballrooms. Mary Balogh's Always Remember isn't just a romance; it's a breathtaking tapestry woven with forbidden love, societal defiance, and the quiet resilience of the human spirit.
Our heroine, Lady Jennifer Arden, is a captivating paradox. Confined to a wheelchair yet brimming with vivacity and wit, she challenges all preconceived notions of nobility. Her sparkling laughter fills drawing rooms, and her sharp tongue parries with the best of them, a shield against the whispers and pitying glances. This isn't a damsel in distress; Jennifer is a force of nature, determined to live life on her own terms.
Then enters Ben Ellis, a man as enigmatic as he is intriguing. Born on the wrong side of the velvet curtain, he's carved a path of success through sheer intellect and grit. Yet, within this self-made gentleman lies a yearning for acceptance, a desire to belong to the world that still deems him an outsider.
When their paths converge, like constellations aligning under a watchful moon, sparks ignite. Ben sees beyond Jennifer's disability, captivated by her fiery spirit and independent streak. Jennifer, in turn, recognizes the kindness hidden beneath his gruff exterior. Their courtship is a slow burn, fueled by stolen glances, witty repartee, and a shared understanding of the world's limitations.
But theirs is no ordinary romance. Society's rigid class structure and Jennifer's physical limitations cast long shadows over their burgeoning love. Whispers turn to condemnations, and disapproving looks follow them like unwelcome shadows. Yet, amidst the societal storm, their bond strengthens, built on mutual respect and the unwavering belief in their shared happiness.
Balogh paints a vivid portrait of Regency England, its lavish balls and whispered scandals coming alive on the page. Her meticulous research shines in every detail, from the intricate gowns to the etiquette-laden tea parties. But beyond the historical backdrop, she delves into the human heart, exploring themes of overcoming prejudice, embracing difference, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
Always Remember is not just a romance; it's a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of love to defy societal norms. It's a story that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer as Jennifer and Ben navigate the labyrinthine world of Regency England, proving that true love can bloom in the most unexpected corners.
Summary
Lady Jennifer Arden, vivacious and witty despite her disability,
navigates the strictures of London society with grace and a mischievous
twinkle in her eye. Ben Ellis, the illegitimate son of an Earl, has
carved his own path with intelligence and charm, yet remains an outsider
in his own family. When their paths cross, unexpected sparks ignite,
defying social expectations and drawing them into a whirlwind of
forbidden love.
