Readers who have been swept away by Leo Birch's earlier novels, Julie and Jim and Angelica, are in for a real treat in this elegantly written and emotionally gripping collection of shorter stories, each of which considers the fluid aspects of sensual romance in a wide range of exotic, luminous locales: encounters in the Greek islands, Venice, New York, Paris, the Hamptons-far-away places in beautifully appointed hotels, on yachts, on cobble-stoned streets in endless summer. .

. and in simpler dwellings.

In these seven tales, we again get to meet good-looking men and beautiful women. They're successful in their pursuits, and they're captivated by any and all expressions of loving in the most private of moments.

But we see beyond the touches and caresses as well, to what drives their spirits, their life-blood. It is this revelation, the uncloaking of ultimate privacies, that lends these stories their true eloquence.

Some of our heroes and heroines are married couples, others not; some have known each other for years, and some have just met. Their ages vary, too.

But they all have one thing in common-they're in touch with their passions, wholly accept each other, and are curious (or courageous) enough to follow those passions wherever they may lead. Maybe they're waiting for you.

. .