The Guardian

When I write a review I do not go over the story line or give away the ending. I have read to many reviews that have ruined the ending for me. I just really want the prospective reader to know if I enjoyed the book and if I would recommend it. Usually the publisher will write a brief description of the book which should give the future reader and idea if the book is for them. Although I do have a good education I find pleasure and escape in these romance books. If they were written from a true accounting of the time period from which they took place I would most likely find them boring and depressing and would not read them. A little "straying" from the truth is needed. If I wanted to read another "text" book I would. I "respect" any writer for putting "pen to paper", as I myself could not do it. I enjoyed the main characters Amy, Trent and Draco. I loved Amy's spirit and independence. I know the standards for women of that time period were very strict, but who's to say that there was never a woman like her. I loved the compassion and understanding that she showed Trent. Trent was deeply wounded from his past experiences and I understood his anger. The only thing that bothered me was his lack of tenderness when he and Amy made love for the first time. She was a virgin and I felt he took little care. As for Draco, he was a true friend to both Amy and Trent and I ached the he had no one to love or understand him. He was really my favorite character. Coming from a "horse" family I enjoy that aspect of the story. I will be reading Mrs. Millers following book that is about Draco and I am looking forward to it. I recommend this book as an "escape" read. Just one to savor and enjoy.

From the rugged soldiers, the strong-willed heroines, and non-stop action of this novel, one can assert that Barbara Miller can write historical romance. The characters, unlike many romance novels, are three-dimensional, encompassing not only the action and romance needed for a good story, but also human aspects of self-awareness, anxiety, and desire. The cover, depicting its graphical sex appeal, provides eye candy for the reader, yes, but it leads one down an exciting road of romantic intrigue and action--so much more lies beyond that "typical romance facade". Just look between the lines...

_The Guardian_ is one of my favorites by Barbara Miller. I have read practically every one of her novels, and this one fascinates me. Her characters are always three-dimensional, flying off the page and into one's imagination. From the rugged soldiers and strong-willed heroines, to the constant action and "ah!-romance:-)", I couldn't put this book down. Miller instantly attracts the reader with her web of romantic intrigue and action. I recommend this book to any romance lover or even first-time romance reader. Barbara Miller has a definite flair for historical romance, and as an unabashed, avid novel reader, I can proudly state that with confidence:-).

Witty, amusing, sexy and historically accurate are some of the words that describe THE GUARDIAN. The harsh editorial review posted on this website surprised me since nearly all of today's romance novels have heroines with out of the ordinary lifestyles or activities, otherwise there wouldn't be a story!Also, I was surprised to read that this novel did not contain much historical reference. Actually IT DOES, except that it is very well blended into the narrative and therefore not as noticeable. It's a big mystery to me why novels such as SUDDENLY YOU, which is one long sex act that gets more depraved by the minute, are more popular that a well thought out story such as THE GUARDIAN. I suppose those of us with higher IQ's are not so easily entertained, and there are so fewer of us.If your taste runs to the gutter, you should pass this one up. But my cultured and well-educated sisters won't be disappointed.

If you've seen other reviews from the dreaded "reader from Kansas City," you know I'm difficult to please. I require historical accuracy, a fairly believeable plot and a decent knowledge of punctuation from an author. The Guardian fulfills all of those functions if not admirably, then at least better than most.A crisp pace abducts you into the story once you hit the second chapter and the focus turns to the hero. I liked being teased by the hero's story of childhood angst, which explained his behavior for the remainder of the novel. Only a few bothersome things--the author doesn't use contractions, e.g. "didn't" or "you've". I'm quite aware that contractions weren't in printed English until the beginning of the 20th century, but they were probably used in speech long before that. A few contractions now and then would have prevented the characters from sounding like Star Trek's android Data. Another detraction was the lackluster narrative in some areas. I like to be able to smell, taste, hear, and feel with the characters. Fortunately, the author usually plunged me into the fantasy of the book with vivid wording.Overall though, I was pleased and can recommend this book as a read. If you get this one, be sure to write a review so I know what you think. Maybe I was merely in a good mood when I read it......