Step into the sizzling world of the Ravenels, where passion, scandal, and Victorian charm collide in Lisa Kleypas’s beloved historical romance series! Set in the glittering ballrooms and windswept estates of late 19th-century England, this seven-book saga follows the fiery Ravenel family as they navigate love, redemption, and societal upheaval. With steamy encounters, witty banter, and characters who leap off the page, Kleypas crafts a world that’s as addictive as it is enchanting.
Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a history buff, the Ravenels series offers a delicious escape. From rakish rogues to trailblazing heroines, each book delivers heart-pounding romance wrapped in meticulous historical detail. Ready to fall in love with the Ravenels? Let’s explore their captivating journey!
How Ravenels Began
Lisa Kleypas, a titan of historical romance and former Miss Massachusetts, returned to the genre in 2015 with the Ravenels after a stint in contemporary romance. Inspired by the transformative Victorian era—think steam engines, social reform, and corseted elegance—she envisioned a family whose hot tempers and big hearts would captivate readers. The result was Cold-Hearted Rake, a novel that introduced the debt-ridden Ravenel estate and sparked a series lauded for its emotional depth and feminist undertones. Kleypas’s knack for blending sensuality with sharp social commentary set the stage for a modern classic.
The Heart of Ravenels
The Ravenels series kicks off with Cold-Hearted Rake (2015), where charming rake Devon Ravenel inherits a crumbling earldom and clashes with Kathleen, a sharp-witted widow. Their fiery attraction sets the tone for the series. Marrying Winterborne (2016) follows, with ruthless tycoon Rhys Winterborne pursuing the gentle yet determined Lady Helen Ravenel—a romance that sizzles with class tensions. Devil in Spring (2017) introduces Pandora Ravenel, an ambitious wallflower who’d rather build a board game empire than marry, until a scandalous night with Gabriel, Lord St. Vincent, changes everything. Finally, Chasing Cassandra (2020) pairs the warm-hearted Cassandra Ravenel with cold-hearted magnate Tom Severin, proving love can thaw even the iciest hearts.
At its core, the series explores themes of transformation, independence, and defying societal norms. Kleypas’s heroines are no shrinking violets—they’re doctors, entrepreneurs, and widows who challenge Victorian constraints. The lush setting, from London’s smoky clubs to Hampshire’s rolling hills, immerses readers in an era of change, while the steamy romances keep pulses racing. Fans also love the crossover with Kleypas’s Wallflowers series, adding layers of nostalgia for longtime readers.
Why Ravenels Resonates
The Ravenels series has left an indelible mark on historical romance, earning accolades like RT Reviewers Choice Awards and a devoted global fanbase. Its blend of feminist heroines and emotionally complex heroes redefined the genre, appealing to readers who crave both swoon-worthy love stories and empowered characters. Kleypas’s meticulous research into Victorian customs—down to surgical techniques and railway empires—grounds the series in authenticity, making it a favorite among history nerds and romantics alike. Even years after its finale, Devil in Disguise (2021), the series continues to inspire book clubs and fan discussions online.
- About Ravenels
- Publication Years: 2015–2021
- Number of Books: 7
- Awards: RT Reviewers Choice Awards for Cold-Hearted Rake and Marrying Winterborne
- Setting: Victorian England, primarily Hampshire and London
Grab Cold-Hearted Rake and dive into the Ravenels’ irresistible world of romance and rebellion! Whether you’re swept away by the scandals or charmed by the family’s quirks, this series promises a heart-fluttering adventure you won’t forget.