Guarded Heart

I love these kinds of romances, where the hero is considered the villain until everyone gets to know him.

This latest book in the swordsman series does not disappoint. Filled with Blake's special brand of subtle nuaces, the book is lovely and compelling.

In 1844 New Orleans, Madame Ariadne Faucher pulls no punches when she informs renowned sword master Gavin Blackford she needs his expertise to kill someone. She further explains she wants him to tutor her in dueling. He is taken aback, but perhaps it is the wine he drank, the mystery of why and who she plans to kill, or her intriguing tall figure, but to his own shock he agrees to teach her. As the teacher and student practice, an attraction ignites into passion. Ariadne learns more than just sword play as Gavin displays a high ethical code; Gavin learns she is much more than just a Lady as she is intelligent and athletic, but he still does not know who she plans to defeat. He tries to disuade her from her course though he believes his best student can beat most men, but love seems to be a weaker emotion than revenge. The fourth Master of Arms historical romance (see ROGUE'S SALUTE, DAWN ENCOUNTER, and CHALLENGE TO HONOR) is a terrific addition to the exciting saga. The story line is fast-paced as the instructor and his prize pupil duel in two types of sword play. Fans will want to know whether the principled sword master persuades his prize pupil that love and family are more rewarding than vengeance or whether Madame will let her heart be consumed by hatred. This is a great work by master writer. Harriet Klausner