Guardian of the Flame, Seven Wonders Series #3

Guardian of the Flame weaves history into a completely absorbing tale that doesn't let the reader go even after the last page is turned. The Seven Wonders of the World, and the people whose lives are intertwined with them, come alive in this imaginative, engrossing series. I can't wait for the next one! - Janelle C. Schneider, Author, "A Distant Love", a novella in the collection Christmas Duty

"T.L. Higley has done it again! Guardian of the Flame has the strong characters, rich description, and attention to historical accuracy that have become her hallmarks. Many series begin to go downhill after the first book or two, but Higley’s Seven Wonders novels keep getting better." - Rick Acker, author of Dead Man’s Rule and Blood Brothers

T.L. Higley has done it again! Guardian of the Flame is a captivating tale, rich with intrigue, historical detail, and characters who will keep you turning the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed this fascinating dip into ancient Alexandria. Highly recommended! - Marlo Schalesky, award-winning author of If Tomorrow Never Comes and Beyond the Night

T. L. Higley's Guardian of the Flame continues her Seven Wonders series in fine fashion. Ceasar and Cleopatra, the Roman invasion and the famous lighthouse at Alexandria are all part of this well-written story of love and faith in the mysterious ancient world. - DeAnna Julie Dodson, author of In Honor Bound

Filled with beautiful images of Alexandria and realistic portrayals of historical figures, Guardian of the Flame is not to be missed. Not every author can successfully combine history, truth, and characters so heartfelt they become every bit as real as the air in the room. But this one did. I’m a new fan of this series and this amazing author. - Tracey Bateman, Author of Thirsty Oct. 2009

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Guardian of the Flame by T.L. Higley is the third book in the historical fiction Seven Wonders series. Sophia has spent her life keeping the fire at the top of the Lighthouse of Alexandria lit and encouraging the acquisition of knowledge and wisdom at the city's famed Library. Both are threatened by the arrival of Julius Caesar and his troops. Even worse, the wall she has built around her heart is in danger from the glances from Pilus Prior Bellus, a leader of the centurions. Higley's series about the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world just keeps getting better and better! This novel is the perfect blend of history and fiction. She takes the true story of the burning of Alexandria and the joining of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar and brings it to life through a few fictional characters. Sophia is taken on a journey that will shatter the defenses of the lighthouse and her heart. Higley uses lots of metaphors to powerful effect throughout the book in describing Sophia's refusal to love others. This book really has everything, action, suspense, romance, mystery, and history that together make a potent mix. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!

I haven't read a story written by this author before and I really enjoyed it. Last week I read Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran, so it was cool to hang out in the ancient world a bit longer. In Guardian of the Flame, Cleopatra is involved with Julius Caesar and is trying to save her country while holding on to power at the same time. Sophia, the main character in this book, is forced to trust a Roman Centurion and the tension between them is delightfully charged with both animosity and attraction. Usually books that I've read where the man and woman hold anger toward each other seems forced at best. However, this set up seemed more realistic to me as did the subtle shift in affection between them. I loved the romantic element in this story. It was delicious. The emotional impact was intense as well, like the situation where someone unexpected from her past is revealed. Telling you who that surprise person is would be a spoiler, so I'm keeping that a secret. The setting was rich with history and I culture. The situations the characters found themselves in seemed impossible to escape. I love stories that keep me holding my breath and longing for the characters to find love and peace. This one was definitely that, plus it had just enough tension to keep me reading while making my heart pound with anticipation. That's always a great combination.

"Guardian of the Flame" is a fast-paced novel, full of intrigue and romance! After having read "City of the Dead" and "Shadow of Colossus," it was imperative to read the next story in the series. Although each book in the series can stand alone, it is wonderful to have the whole collection (in which more books are eagerly expected in the future!). As the author says about the book, "Guardian of the Flame" has its own twist on the story of "Beauty and the Beast." The overall message about undeserved love is beautiful, and the relationship between the two main characters, Sophia and Bellus, is a wonderful depiction of such love. The symbolism of the fire within the lighthouse is inspiring, and overall it is great to read such a story that combines the hope and love that God gives with an adventurous tale woven from historical fact and great imagination! Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to write a review on it. However, I requested the copy because I had read other works by this author and knew I wouldn't be disappointed!

Guardian of the Flame was an excellent book. It took me into the world of ancient Egypt through wonderful character development. The book is well researched with great detail of the ancient world. We have suspense and romance to carry the reader through the book. This is one you won't want to put down.

Wonderful! Artfully written in the author’s characteristic style, Guardian of the Flame is a masterpiece. Infused with mystery, romance, and spine-tingling action, this suspenseful book surpasses all of my high expectations. Guardian of the Flame is more than just another book; it’s a true work of art. I was doubtful when I began reading, wondering secretly if this book could be as good as the others, but I was blown away by the vividness of the colors and the vibrant personalities that leapt out of the pages and captivated my mind. I would definitely read this book and recommend it to my friends!

I simply LOVED this book. The story line is wonderful, especially if you love history.

T.L. Higley's 3rd book in the Seven Wonders series is FANTASTIC! I read a lot of books, and very few historical novels capture and keep my interest as this one did. Many of us remember the scene in the classic film "Cleopatra" starring Elizabeth Taylor where she rolls out of a carpet in front of Caesar. That is in the book, but this is not really a book about Cleopatra. It is about Sophia, the lighthouse keeper. I found it fascinating, not only because it is historically based, but because the author brought the characters to life- made them real to me. I could relate to their fears and happiness, their pride and delight. I found myself curious to learn more about the lighthouse and the history surrounding it. Thanks, Tracy, for a wonderful book!!

“Guardian of the Flame” captured my interest at the first page and disappointed me at the end when I had to return from ancient Egypt back to my everyday life. Tracy Higley certainly knows how to weave a good story as she teaches amazing historical facts through her fictional characters. These people come to life and the word pictures she creates are impressive. You can almost smell the sea and feel the breeze as Sophia stands in the garden of her inheritance, the ancient lighthouse. The emotional situations of love, friendship and war are perceived in the interaction of the characters. Caesar and Cleopatra as they make use of each other’s position. Friendship between Sophia and Bellus... or is it love trying to bud in a bitter woman’s soul? The fearful commotion of a city overcome by the enemy. Whether you are a reader of historical fiction, mystery, war or just a good read you will find it all in this book.

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