Now available in
paperback at CafePress
Women wept, yearned and fantasized about him. Men
coveted and copied his mysterious style. And both lined the railroad tracks
when his body was transported back to the Tinsel Town that made him famous.
Based on over one hundred rare sources, this biography of actor Rudolph
Valentino will thrill romantics and fans of silent film. Encased in a shroud of
mystery is a fascinating individual concealed too long behind his persona. (Cover Art: Leta Nolan Childers)
Charpentier sees in
Valentino's appeal a precursor to the rise and enduring popularity of romance
novels. Her introduction draws parallels between Valentino's oft-criticized persona
and the perplexity expressed by romance novelists who sell millions of books
but who are sneered at by critics. The common thread… is the mystery and
mysticism of romance, which defies analysis. -Gregory Harris, The Book Page-
Screen idol Rudolph Valentino is presented… as a mysteriously erotic screen personality shortchanged by the studios
and denied the chance to play the more serious roles he desired. Charpentier
has written extensively about Valentino in romance and nostalgia periodicals…” -Publishers Weekly-