The excitement, danger and steamy passion Liz Carlyle brings to all her books is very much in evidence in THE BRIDE WORE PEARLS the latest in the Guardian series.

Lady Anisha Stafford uprooted her life for the sake of her sons, bringing them to England so they could grow up within their late father's culture. She also has the guardianship of her spoiled youngest brother, Lucan and prays bringing him under the influence of their eldest sibling, Ruthveyn (The Bride Wore Scarlet>) will set him on a safe path to adulthood. She is willing to do much for those she loves, but some things are impossible. She is simply unable to totally subsume the gifts and heritage gained from her mother, Saraswati, and she refuses to ignore the man fate has brought to her life, no matter the consequences.

Rance Welham, Earl of Lazonby has the darkest possible past. Sentenced twice to hanging for a murder he did not commit, it was only the protection of the mysteriously mystic St. James Society that saved his life. His trials contributed to the death of his family, he burns with thoughts of clearing his name and exacting vengeance on the true culprit.

He is powerfully drawn to his friend Ruthveyn's sister but sets his feelings aside. He is damaged goods, and most of the Ton believe him a murderer. Not good enough to raise her sons, a connection with him could only drag her down. He buries his pain in a green absinthe haze and devotes his life to uncovering the truth.

I have greatly enjoyed the previous two books in Liz Carlyle's Guardian series but perhaps THE BRIDE WORE PEARLS is my favorite. I have a weakness for bad-boy heroes and Rance fits the profile in spades. I also enjoy an independent, unusual heroine, a role Anisha fills beautifully. Rance's struggle to keep Anisha's life clear from his dark past slams up against her disdain for convention, and her conviction that they are fated to be together.

Although all three books may be read on their own, reading them in order is a bit more enjoyable. The important thing is to read them. They are some of the best historical romances available