Someone to Cherish

Two people find the cure for loneliness in each other in Balogh's enchanting eighth Westcott Regency romance (after Someone to Romance). Harry Westcott was once the Earl of Riverdale, but he lost his title when his mother discovered that her husband had committed bigamy in marrying her, making Harry illegitimate. He fled England to fight in the Napoleonic Wars, only returning to his childhood home of Hinsford Manor after being injured in battle. When Lydia Tavernor's husband died, she decided never to remarry, valuing her independence. But independence proves lonely, and she hopes to take Harry, her neighbor, as a lover—she's drawn to "the suggestion of darkness that he [keeps] well hidden." After she awkwardly propositions Harry, the pair spend one glorious night together—but Lydia stops it there, hoping to avoid village gossip. Harry agrees as, after their tryst, he knows he wants more from her than she's willing to give. But when gossip erupts despite their best efforts, Harry proposes, hoping to quell the rumors and perhaps win Lydia's heart. The seamless plotting and enticing characters make this a romance to be savored. Balogh is in fine form, and this may be her best Regency to date. Agent: Maria Carvainis, Maria Carvainis Agency. (June)