His Official Fiancee

<p><I>His Official Fiancée</I> (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 <I>His Official Fiancée</I> 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 <I>His Official Fiancée</I> is a classic of British romance literature reimagined for modern readers.</p>