Heroes of the Vernal Night Trilogy from Soulful Sex Volume II
illustrations by Diana Laurence

In the Vernal Night Trilogy of stories we become familiar with the ancient people of Etaen, a society rich in tradition and culture. Among the traditions of the Etaeneans is the annual celebration of Vernal Night. Each year at the spring equinox, trios of young men try their luck spending an evening with a single woman, each vying to become her Vernal Night choice.

These stories focus on three special Etaenean men, friends who begin the Trilogy in competition, and over the course of three Vernal Nights and three tales, find adventure, love, and their own perfect mates. Meet the Vernal Night Trio, and see if you can choose your own favorite!

Tibolt

Calling: Merchant of fine goods.

Character: Mature, wise, rational. An honest and respected businessman of some success. Possessed of a dry wit which he often employs to mock the folly of his best friends and Etaenean society. An intellectual who also appreciates the artistry of his two friends, even though he is more practical himself. Paternal and protective towards those he loves.

Interests: Is a competitive runner, enjoys cultural pursuits, seeks out unusual goods from around the world.

Secret desire: The attentions of the beautiful, intelligent and popular Lady Raisi.

Characteristic quote: "I’ve always found, in business at least, that it helps to have a plan, and follow it determinedly. So, consider this plan. First I shall kiss you, softly and tenderly, until those warm feelings are kindled again. And then I shall slip your clothes from you..."

Frayn

Calling: The preeminent public mural painter of Etaen, patronized by the High Lord and Lady.

Character: Wild, spirited, unpredictable. Feigns madness occasionally for the entertainment value. Will play at being moody but is really quite good natured, with a fine sense of humor. Obsessed with his art, sometimes to the exclusion of all else. Passionately devoted to those he loves, although he would never say so.

Interests: Enjoys painting bold and audacious works on a grand scale, ale and camaraderie, aethestics, the study of tapestry.

Secret desire: To find the right woman (especially one who understands his art).

Characteristic quote: "What sane man seduces a woman by taking her out in a storm? I only brought you out to teach you, so you could feel what it is like to be the rocks. For you are like a rock, unmoved; whereas I am like the river, seeking endlessly to move you."

Arjent

Calling: Minstrel and lute player.

Character: Sweet-tempered, kindhearted, sensual but innocent. Enamored of women universally and dedicated to bringing them happiness. Immensely popular but humble, and deeply dedicated to his friends. Spiritual and possessed of a trusting faith. His positive nature has been thwarted but once: by the departure of his lifelong companion, the Lady Delinn.

Interests: Composing and performing to the best of his ability, bringing joy to others, perfecting the sensual arts, playing "Ninety-nine" (and you have to read the book to learn what that is!).

Secret desire: To win back his long-lost love.

Characteristic quote: "I am the happiest of men, having pleased you. I need nothing further to complete my joy. For what more satisfaction can a minstrel have than to please his poet so? I want for nothing, beloved. I am satisfied, offer me no further reward."

More ways to enjoy Vernal Night...

Purchase the ebook Soulful Sex Volume II and read the Vernal Night Trilogy, or purchase the paperback Soulful Sex Volumes I & II and get twice the fun.
Read my feature article "Man/Devil/Angel: The Perfect Erotic Partner" on the three archetypes women need in their fantasies, on The Romance Studio website.
Read my feature article "Romance Heroes Appear Before Your Very Eyes" on the experience of drawing character portraits, on the Novelspot website.