Someone to Cherish by Mary Balogh

Lydia Tavernor's late husband was not only a charismatic pastor, he was a hero dying to save one of the young boys in their village. Now that he is gone, this man who she loved so deeply that their wedding is one of her happiest memories, she is discovering that she rather likes living on her own. Somewhat scandalously, she bought her own house at the edge of the village not even employing a servant. She grew up with a family of men who were overbearing in their love.

Harry Westcott understands the need to be alone. His family may have lost their titles but the people in the village still respect him as though he were still an earl. When he was younger, he was sunny and open but, after losing his title and serving in the king's army, he became much more serious. Now he just wants to live a quiet life, occasionally visiting his large and rowdy family. But when Lydia makes a tentative overture toward a purely physical relationship, Harry does not want to turn it down. 

Regular Balogh readers will probably enjoy much of the story. I felt some of the conflict didn't quite make sense in this story but otherwise a lovely book.

Three and a half stars
Follows Someone to Romance

Followed by Someone Perfect
This book comes out June 29th, 2021
ARC kindly provided by Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley
Opinions are my own