Books by Betra Ruck

The Disturbing Charm (1919) is a romance novel by Berta Ruck. After a decade of publishing stories in literary magazines, Ruck began releasing romance novels to popular acclaim. The Disturbing Charm is a satirical tale of love, fantasy, and modern life that continues to entertain over a century after it was written. "Half the trouble in that world arises from the fact that human beings are continually falling in Love ... with the wrong people." While cleaning her uncle's office, Olwen Howel-Jones, a young Welsh beauty, discovers this message written on a mysterious note. Investigating further, she finds instructions for the use of a powerful charm, which must remain hidden in order to work. When used, it renders the wearer irresistibly attractive, allowing them to bend the will of whomever they wish to romance. Unable to resist such a promise, Olwen secretly removes the charm from her uncle's desk. As she goes about her daily life, she soon discovers that although the charm truly works, to be the constant object of anyone and everyone's affections is a tiresome way to live. The Disturbing Charm is a comedy of social life and romance from one of the twentieth century's most prolific authors. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Berta Ruck's The Disturbing Charm is a classic of British romance literature reimagined for modern readers.

His Official Fiancée (1914) is a romance novel by Berta Ruck. After a decade of publishing stories in literary magazines, Ruck released her first novel to popular acclaim. Adapted for a 1919 silent comedy film starring Vivian Martin and Forrest Stanley, His Official Fiancée is a satirical tale of love, work, and modern life. To his employees, William Waters is a demanding boss who micromanages every aspect of their daily work. Beyond his back, he is known as "Still Waters," a reference to his robotic nature and seemingly stagnant love life. When Monica Trant, a typist, is called into his office, she fears the worst. To her surprise, however, Waters makes a strange proposition. "'I wish to find someone who, to outward appearances, could take the place of my fiancée; could go about with me, stay at my home, and be introduced all round as the girl I meant to marry. She must understand from the very beginning that it was absolutely a matter of business; that the so-called "engagement" would terminate at the end of the year.'" Hesitant at first, Monica is in no position to turn down a better job and agrees to his request. As days turn to weeks, weeks into months, she realizes that her role has given her an opportunity to gain control of a man who has controlled so much of her own life. Dedicated to the running of his business, Waters has left himself completely vulnerable in his life at home. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Berta Ruck's His Official Fiancée is a classic of British romance literature reimagined for modern readers.