As with the previous entry in this series, I found the the scenes laundry-listing every character in the extended and extensive Westcott clan made the book a little slow to pick up initially, but once it started to focus on the hero and heroine I was as effortlessly drawn into the story as usual with Balogh's novels. I really liked Harry and Lydia both as characters and as a couple, and despite this being a historical setting I felt like many of the questions they faced--such as how do you open up and learn to trust again after traumatic experiences, and when is it worth risking contentment for a chance at greater happiness?--to be both universal and modern in a way that will resonate with readers today. Finally, although the door is left open for more books (which I would definitely read, and it's hinted that the Lamarr twins will be next), the ending of SOMEONE TO CHERISH also works as a satisfying wrap-up for the Westcott series as a whole.

Harry Westcott is living a life of quiet solitude in the country. He’s content with his own company, but feeling a little wistful for...something. So when his neighbor, young widow of the late local vicar, nearly propositions him, he’s tempted. Lydia Tavernor has done her best to be invisible, and she’s happy with her own company. But after she impulsively speaks to handsome Harry, suddenly he *sees* her, and she’s not sure what to think of it.

Balogh is a gentle storyteller. Her characters are often surrounded by well-meaning and intrusive relatives, who dart in and out of each book, matchmaking and planning parties and protecting each other. The Westcott clan does an excellent job of this. Balogh doesn’t write steamy love scenes. Harry and Lydia don’t smolder together, but they obviously have feelings of affection and love for each other.

I hope this isn’t it for the series, although the last chapter made me think it might be. If so, hopefully she’s on to another great set of characters quickly.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review.