SOMEONE PERFECT is the ninth book in Mary Balogh’s “Westcott” historical romance series. The central theme in SOMEONE PERFECT is family. Justin Wiley, Earl of Brandon and Lady Estelle Lamarr meet when Justin finally comes home to Everleigh Park. His sister has been living there for years, and Estelle and her twin brother Bertrand are neighbors. There are so many comparisons to be made between the two sibling relationships and the larger family dynamics. Amid all the family drama, Justin and Estelle form an attraction and eventually fall in love. This is yet another example of exceptional storytelling by Mary Balogh.

Lady Estelle is financially well off and in no hurry to marry just for the sake of marrying. She lives a pleasant life at Elm Court with her brother. When she thinks of the type of man she might like to marry, she’d like a man like the affable Mr. Tinley from Jane Austen’s classic novel NORTHANGER ABBEY - kind-hearted, charming, and fun to be around. In Justin, she finds an intriguing mix of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’s Mr. Darcy and Charlotte Bronte’s Mr. Rochester from her novel JANE EYRE. Neither Justin nor Estelle is particularly adept at reading each other. Thankfully for readers, the story is told from alternating perspectives, and we get a glimpse at what the two main characters are really feeling. When the reader is first introduced to the main characters, and are given a little of their history, it’s a striking contrast when you compare Justin’s family relationships with Estelle’s. Both endured a period of estrangement from their fathers, but Justin’s was never-ending and therefore even more tragic, while Estelle was able to reconcile with her father a few years ago and they were able to work through and resolve their issues. Estelle and Bertrand understand each other better than anyone else and they have an easy companionship. Conversely, Justin and his half-sister Maria have a prickly relationship because of some things that happened in the past. Because he remains silent rather than defend his actions, and because his name has been sullied by others, Maria has the worst opinion of her brother. In addition to the romance, a large chunk of this story involves Justin’s attempt to put right things that were wrecked in the past. Estelle and her extended family prove to be valuable allies.

Although both main characters feel attracted to each other early on, Justin’s feelings are a lot less complicated. He finds Estelle physically attractive, while also appreciating her dynamic personality and intelligence. Estelle inexplicably and quickly finds Justin attractive, but she’s not happy about it. Like Elizabeth Bennet in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, she is frustrated by an enigmatic man whose conflicting history and current behavior baffles her. The situation with Justin’s sister draws them closer and they get to know each other better. The sexual tension and emotional depth are superlative.

SOMEONE PERFECT is a compelling portrait of two very different families and tragedy mixed with hope. I liked both main characters a lot – especially the heroine. Estelle is both romantic and pragmatic, with a delightful confidence. I hope to read a story featuring Bertrand in the future. I loved the relationship and banter between Estelle and her twin. I eagerly await Mary Balogh’s next book.

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