MERCHANT OF VALOR

An accomplished merchant of lighthearted tales takes a dive into the sea of historical fiction, basing his action and plot around the personality and deeds of Giovanni delle Bande Nere, a de Medioi, whose feats as the greatest soldier of his age made him famous. The catspaw here is Peter Carew, a merchant of wool, who is used by the chameleon-tempered and unpredictable ""Betsy"" for her own, vengeful purposes. Sent from England to Italy, suspected of being a political messenger, he finds refuge with Giovanni, fights for him, and unravels the mysteries surrounding his lady. The routine is in remembered Jeffery Farnol style, with recognized Kelland touches, and this story of 10th century adventure and romance provides action and humor for entertainment.