Conversely, Justin and his half-sister Maria have a prickly relationship because of some things that happened in the past. Estelle and Bertrand understand each other better than anyone else and they have an easy companionship. 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. 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. Thankfully for readers, the story is told from alternating perspectives, and we get a glimpse at what the two main characters are really feeling. Neither Justin nor Estelle is particularly adept at reading each other. In Justin, she finds an intriguing mix of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’s Mr. Tinley from Jane Austen’s classic novel NORTHANGER ABBEY - kind-hearted, charming, and fun to be around. When she thinks of the type of man she might like to marry, she’d like a man like the affable Mr. She lives a pleasant life at Elm Court with her brother. Lady Estelle is financially well off and in no hurry to marry just for the sake of marrying. This is yet another example of exceptional storytelling by Mary Balogh. Amid all the family drama, Justin and Estelle form an attraction and eventually fall in love. There are so many comparisons to be made between the two sibling relationships and the larger family dynamics. His sister has been living there for years, and Estelle and her twin brother Bertrand are neighbors. Justin Wiley, Earl of Brandon and Lady Estelle Lamarr meet when Justin finally comes home to Everleigh Park. The central theme in SOMEONE PERFECT is family. SOMEONE PERFECT is the ninth book in Mary Balogh’s “Westcott” historical romance series.

Someone perfect balogh