Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Robert Eckert: The Duke's Gambit

I have not been recently blogging due to some volunteer work this summer. Thanks for your patience!

January 1987 saw the publication of The Duke's Gambit by Roberta Eckert, the only book Allan Kass illustrated for her. Andrea Howard has the number of the Duke of Haverford, and he's a womanizer in her book. She saves her cousin from a misstep with him, but wonders that she could be his next victim!

Allan Kass illustrates our couple sitting on a garden bench while a ball takes place in the room behind. Our hero wears black evening dress while our heroine wears a very low cut gown and simple silver trimmings. I like her bracelet and buttons, which give her gown a very Grecian appearance! Note the dancers in the crowded room along with the ornate windows and doors. Allan is the master of detail and I hope that you enjoy this picture! Click to enlarge!

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Gail Eastwood: An Unlikely Hero


An Unlikely Hero is the last of Gail Eastwood's regencies that was illustrated by Allan Kass. She did write others for Signet. This book has an August 1996 publication date.

This is an interesting story of twin sisters, Venetia and Vivian who are called the Lioness and the Lamb for their personalities. Venetia finds a wonderful man for sweet Vivian, only to realize that he may be perfect for her!

Allan Kass illustrates our couple standing near a gated garden. Our hero is unique in that he has very light, almost white hair. Our heroine is pretty with her blonde hair and regency walking dress. I like the slit sleeves along with the royal blue trim that repeats itself on her bonnet and hair tie. Again, Allan outdoes himself with the little touches: her cameo necklace, the button at the top of her laced sleeves, the flowers over the garden wall and the hint of a bench inside the garden. Great cover that I hope you enjoy!