Sophia chooses to live a lonely existence as the keeper of the lighthouse at Alexandria. She prefers her books to the wretched people who live beyond her walls, yet she operates the lighthouse to prevent shipwrecks and to save other families from the heartache and loss that she still grieves. Change comes to Egypt in the form of Julius Caesar and Roman troops. Sophia must watch as her young friend Cleopatra and Ptolemy each try to cur favor from Caesar and take the throne outright. However, Sophia has little patience for politics, and the imprisoning of the scholars including her dear friend and mentor, Sosigenes, is the last straw. Unfortunately, soldiers soon overrun her lighthouse, and she is supposed to be their hostess. How will she balance all her duties and keep her secrets hidden? Sosigenes keeps telling her that she needs to learn to love again. Is there room in her heart for love for the one God, a Roman soldier, or anyone?

Lucius Bellus is a loyal Roman soldier and a friend of Caesar, yet he and his troops soon find themselves at the mercy of the general and sent on a most unpleasant task. Bellus must take the lighthouse, and he knows firsthand how unwelcoming the keeper is. However, Sophia intrigues him with her knowledge and the same unquenchable desire to learn that he possesses. She shows him Alexandria through her eyes and he is impressed with the inner workings of the lighthouse and the surrounding city. They have a rocky friendship, and she is always quick to point out that they are enemies. As tensions rise and Alexandria prepares for battle, Bellus must choose his path. Will he do what he must to protect the Roman forces or will a sharp-tongued woman stand in his way? Will he extinguish any flames of hope that he may have with his actions?

T. J. Higley has once again piqued my interest with a fascinating glance at history. She brings a richness to the past with her attention to detail thus creating a fabulous atmosphere in which to immerse the reader. Her characters vary widely from servants to rulers, and each plays an integral part in the ensuing drama. I just love being taken on an adventure, and Ms. Higley definitely takes you on an expedition to ancient Egypt. She has carved her own niche in the inspirational genre with this amazing historical loaded with action, intrigue, and romance. GUARDIAN OF THE FLAME is a page-turner, and I highly recommend any of the Seven Wonders Series.