Valentines
Valentines - A Trio of Regency Love Stories is the perfect gift for regency and historical fans alike, who will be smitten with the distinctive talent of this popular Fawcett author.  Bald Lies is the first story of this delightful threesome and it introduces us to Maxim, the Earl of  Blanford - fast loosing his hair - and Miss Audrina Rowe, the sweet-natured daughter of a country vicar.  Deciding that he must find a bride before his pate is completely bare, Max submits to the matchmaking of the wife of his best friend. All the eligible ladies of the surrounding countryside are invited to attend a Valentines Day ball at the couple's country estate.  One after another, the hopeful misses parade past the handsome gentlemen hoping to catch their eye.  Yet, strangely, Max can't seem to take his eyes off the enchanting girl in a moth-eaten gown that has come to accompany her more fashionable cousin.  Though she's not the loveliest lady in attendance, with her flaming red hair and freckles, something about her unreserved vivacity of spirit draws him to her.  Once touched by her sincere attention, Max finds he is unable to let her go as Cupid takes solid aim at his heart.  Secondly, The Last Valentine is a poignant story of love lost and regained.  Bundled away to a secluded country chateau after refusing to marry her father's heir, Martine Barrett is ostracized for having brought shame to the family.  In the four years since the man that she loved deserted her, her life has become stifling and lackluster.  One morning, she is surprised to receive an anonymous love note.  The writer declares his undying love and promises to reveal his identity on Sweetheart's Day, one week later.  Flattered, yet certain that it is a mistake, Martine dismisses the romantic writ until another one is delivered the following morning with a gift, and everyday afterward for the entire week. Convinced that the notes were written by her long lost beau, come back to reclaim her heart, Martine dares to dream of a life away from her confines.  Romantic and warm, the love letters eventually spark hope of finally finding someone to love as each day brings her closer to meeting her mysterious admirer.  This story is filled with heart-melting romance and even a surprise or two, added just for spice.  Finally, Love &Tenderness; completes the collection with panache.  It's the story of Lee, the Viscount Maitland, and his new bride, who have yet to consummate their marriage.  On the night of their wedding, just as things are heating up, they are visited by a one-of-a-kind ghost that has lost his memory.  Only Lee's lovely bride, Senta, can see the flamboyant apparition and, unfortunately, she spots him at a most inopportune moment. Although it becomes apparent to the reader whom this famous spirit resembles, the ghost himself has only snatches of memory as he is convinced that he was sent to see this couple happily married.  Circumstances surrounding his brother's death keep the Viscount from allowing anyone, including Senta, to get close.  It takes a bride's determination and the hilarious antics of an extraordinary ghost to bring love a marriage meant to be.Barbara Metzger's voice is always fresh!  With wit and inimitable style, she dares to go beyond the cliché to create uniquely Metzger stories. Valentines truly is a gift of love! This is one you'll want to go back and experience year after year!Lori Wright  --Copyright © 1994-97 Literary Times, Inc.  All rights reserved--FromLiterary Times