Set into the rich background of New Orleans of 1844, GUARDED HEART by Jennifer Blake is a timeless story of family and honor. Ariadne Faucher has an ulterior motive when she attempts to engage Englishman Gavin Blackford to teach her the fine art of fencing. Although it is socially unacceptable for women to learn fencing, Gavin isn't overly concerned with what others think, instead he is intrigued by the young widow and her unusual request. In an effort to protect Ariadne's reputation as a lady, by birth and by marriage, Gavin arranges to come to a mutual friend's abode late at night for private lessons. It's hard to know who is more surprised by the experience as the lessons progress. Gavin has never taught a woman to fence before, but he quickly realizes that his newest student is far from being average -in any way. Ariadne wanted to learn fencing so that she could avenge the death of her foster brother, but she has found that the simple truth might not be the whole truth. The best lesson Gavin and Ariadne are learning is the one that they are teaching each other: when you find someone who makes you feel special, let nothing get in the way of being together.

This is the fourth book in Jennifer Blake's 'Master at Arms' series and all signs point to plenty more to come. A diverse cast of characters from a wide range of economic, educational, and cultural backgrounds are given a rich backdrop in which to perform. Fencing and the rituals that go into dueling are explained with care, making it all the more relatable. The male friendships that make a family bond, the female friendships that create a safe haven, and the undeniable love between Gavin and Ariadne are special enough to make this a story to remember. Knowing there are three before, and possibly more after, this one should give any fan of series romances a satisfied feeling.