"A serious but entertaining historical novel"

In 1916 Paris, budding actress Liana Wycliffe falls in love with World War I fighter pilot Ace after only meeting him ten days ago when they both attended two showings of Birth of a Nation. However, when they make love, he drops her claiming she is just another whore. Heartbroken because she loves him, Liana returns to the States to pursue a career in the budding new movie industry.

Four years later, director Spencer Sloane has had two successful movies, which has led to his receiving carte blanche control to film "Tehani of the South Seas" on location. To play the heroine of this controversial movie, he wants Liana, who he has not seen since Paris. When he finds her, she refuses to act in his movie until he forces her hand. When a scandal breaks out centering on her parents, Spencer insists she remain as the star. However, this is one location that could prove dangerous to the key cast and filmmakers, as powerful interests do not want this story told.

This is an engaging historical romance with a deep reminder that focuses on the mistreatment (some call it rape) of the South Sea island paradises by missionaries. The story line is loaded with action and deep characterizations. The audience will adore Liana, but Spencer carries too much baggage on top of what Liana contends with so that the audience sympathizes with him when he discusses the plight of the people, but not in his dysfunctional reactions to his beloved. Fans of deep early twentieth century tales will appreciate this strong powerhouse.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted May 17, 2003

Summary

He broke her heart...Now a struggling actress must put on the performance of a lifetime...

Orphaned at the age of thirteen, actress Liana Wycliffe was no stranger to life's cruelties. But nothing had prepared her for the despair she felt when the man she loved betrayed her. Known as Ace, he was a devastatingly handsome fighter pilot stationed in Paris--and he was everything Liana wanted. But after one night of blazing passion he disappeared, leaving her with a brusque note--and a broken heart. Liana swears she will never again allow a man to violate her trust. But when the man who never stopped haunting her dreams returns, can she keep her vow?

"Ace" has become Spencer Sloane, renowned director of the silent screen--and he wants talented Liana as the star of his next film. He has never forgotten the ingénue who came closest to piercing his disillusioned soul, and he will stop at nothing to ensure that she fulfills his vision. This time Liana is determined to have him only on her terms. In the face of such powerful desire, who will be the first to surrender?