SOMEONE TO CHERISH is the eighth book in Mary Balogh’s “Westcott” series. Although SOMEONE TO CHERISH could work as a standalone novel, there’s more meaning for longtime fans of the series who have watched Harry Westcott evolve over the course of the series. In the first book, Harry is young, wealthy, and predictably thoughtless for his age and position when the unexpected hits him and upends his world. Over the course of this “Westcott” series, Harry has served in the military and matured considerably. He is resting and trying out life in the country when he is introduced to the widowed Lydia Tavernor. As the story progresses, readers get more info about what Lydia’s late husband and their marriage was like. Although Lydia’s husband wasn’t physically abusive, his behavior toward her left her not eager to marry again. Because SOMEONE TO CHERISH is told from alternating perspectives, readers get crucial insight into the main characters.

At the beginning of this book, Harry and Lydia both want a little distance between themselves and their families for different reasons, but both hope to maintain some autonomy in their lives and live on their own terms. Harry might be feeling a little lonely and slightly envious of the multitude of happy couples in his family, but he doesn’t want them to overwhelm him and play matchmaker. Having felt like her life has always been controlled – for better or worse – by the men in her life, Lydia wants to enjoy the independence that’s come with her widowhood without the interference from her brothers and father. As a reader who started this series from the very beginning when Harry was just a young man, it’s interesting to see him through Lydia’s eyes – as a former soldier and hottie. I love when an author can take a character and have him grow, both physically and emotionally, over a series. Mary Balogh has definitely played the long game with this character, and it’s paid off. I like that Harry respects Lydia’s boundaries while trying to change her mind with gentle persuasion. The sexual tension is electric. It’s funny that Harry frets over the idea of his family descending on him en masse when I – as a fan of the series – hope for that very thing. Although there is some well-meant plotting without Harry’s knowledge, the Westcott family only shows up to help near the end but, as expected, they are a source of support to Lydia as well as Harry.

SOMEONE TO CHERISH is a splendid love story with sensuality galore and expertly written characters. Mary Balogh ties everything together in a way that makes sense for the characters, and nothing feels forced or artificial. I look forward to Mary Balogh’s next historical romance.

Book Summary