Female Books

I had such a great time reading "Knock Off." If you are familiar with any of Janet Evanovich's novels, you could compare this book to her Stephanie Plum series.

It was a surprise to me that this is Janet Pollero's first book. She writes like an old pro. The characters and dialogue were fun and easy to identify with. There is plenty of humor, and I caught myself laughing out loud a few times throughout this book.

Bravo, Ms. Pollero! You have a new fan.

Rhonda Pollero writes a book thats really a great read. If you love Evanovich's Stephanie Plum you will love Finley. I found myself laughing out loud many times with Finleys adventures. I hope she never stops writing. This an enjoyable read

"If I could find a way to deep-fry chocolate, my life would be whole." This first sentence sets the tone for the book. The heroine, Finley Anderson Tanner (nickname 'Fat'), is a para-legal with an eye for cut-price fashion and accessories - she's building her own Rolex from parts bought on e-Bay - and a nose for an investigation. She works for the Estates and Trusts Department of a prestigious law firm, but her safely dull routine is up-ended when a distraught widow is determined to prove that her husband has been murdered. Finley gets pushed into investigating what has happened, then the death threats start...

There are shades of Janet Evanovich and Sarah Strohmeyer here, with the slightly ditsy but spunky and good-hearted heroine surrounded by loyal girlfriends and a confused love-life. What I most enjoyed was the dry humour and the way we get to hear Finley's wry unspoken thoughts - especially when she was dealing with her snobbish mother. Lots of puzzled glances came my way on the train as I laughed out loud in mid-page!

I'm happy that further books in this series are planned; can't wait for the next one, 'Knock 'em Dead', and I thoroughly recommend this one if you're into the comedy-murder genre.

Finley is a coffee-guzzling, designer bargains-hunting Estates and Trusts paralegal who does the bare minimum to earn her paycheck until a grieving widow convinced her husband didn't die in an accident is passed off to her. To top it off she finds having to work closely with a sexy Irish PI gives her hot flashes and makes it hard to remember her pilot boyfriend.

I truly enjoyed this new heroine on the scene. The plot moves quickly and I found myself laughing at loud at times.
Here's hoping Finley will be around for many more installments to come!

"Knock Off" was a great read. It is exactly what I look for in this kind of book. Likeable characters, a clever mystery, not too much "romance novel" emotional blather and a sense of fun. Finley is a paralegal who is more interested in shopping online at work than climbing the corporate ladder until she is drawn into solving the death of the husband of one of her probate clients. The only gripe I have with the story is that the motive of the culprit is weak (or weakly developed). Finley's character and attitude definitely make up for it though.

One thing I really like about Karin's books is that the characters are inevitably embroiled in something interesting, and she infuses their lives with curious and fun little details that make the stories and characters come alive. Another important element for me is that I like the characters, and Karin has almost unfailingly moved me to pull for her characters. This book is no exception. The characters are well-drawn with influential backgrounds and influences that help move the plot along easily and comfortably, which is nice in escapist fiction.

Additionally, I really enjoy baking, and have tried out at least a couple of the recipes in this novel. What fun (and while the book is not quite up to 4 stars, I'll display it that way just because of these yummy additions to my repertoire). I like books set in kitchens, or around restaurant management (if you're of a mind to, and like the same thing, check out the online story by Creme Brulee called "Cooking on High"; not perfect, and certainly uber-fanfic, but highly entertaining in its own right). But in addition to baking, we get details about home improvement! That's a subject I sadly know nothing about, but nevertheless I found the drama surrounding it fascinating.

The narrator was a touch odd. But ended up being a useful addition to the story. And meanwhile we have the semi-odd-couple of Jamie and Valkyrie to pull for. Satifying in the way a good dessert is: not too heavy, not a ton of depth, but makes a pleasant and lasting impression.

Jamie is a young-but-marvelous chef who is tired of killing herself to make her ungrateful boss successful. After receiving an inheritance from her Aunt Emily, she decides to buy Emily's old restaurant and give it a go on her own. Little does she realize her new dream comes complete with inspectors, fines, back taxes, and other various problems.

Almost by accident, Jamie meets Val - a woman with problems of her own. It seems Val has convinced the readers and owners of a magazine she writes for that she is a young version of Martha Stewart. She wants to take home improvement to the TV, but doesn't have a single project to call her own. Even worse, she can't cook (not even Cheerios).

Jamie, who has only ever loved one woman, reluctantly agrees to teach Val, who seemingly sleeps with anything that walks, cooking basics in exchange for Val's remodeling/redecorating expertise. The pair find themselves increasingly unable to dismiss growing feelings for each other. Jamie's defense is to make every decadent chocolate treat known to the world. Val's is to throw herself into the project with everything she has.

I thoroughly enjoyed the antics, deception, and tension between Jamie and Val. Kallmaker certainly doesn't disappoint with this one. Although there are three different "narrators," it is well written and easy to follow. Recommended for a lazy morning in your local doughnut shop (my favorites are chocloate glazed from Krispy Kreme) with a large mocha latte.

A light summer read laced with romance and screwball humor. The recipes alone make this book a keeper. I tried the bread pudding and it was a big hit at the Outskirts potluck. The story revolves around Jamie, a young, unappreciated chef who is sure she can make it on her own if just given a chance. When she inherits her Aunt Emily's family style diner, she hopes to turn it into a five-star restaurant. She is discouraged when the inn turns out to be a "handyman's special" and she realizes her inheritance comes complete with inspectors, fines, back taxes, as well as some major structural problems.

Jamie thinks her problems are solved when she meets home and garden expert Valkyrie Valentine. Val is on the fast track to host her own television show--as long as she can convince the owners of a magazine she writes for that she can cook and really is the renovation guru she writes about so authentically.

Jamie agrees to teach Val cooking basics in exchange for Val's remodeling expertise. It's no big surprise when they find themselves making eyes at each other. Jamie's sublimates her feelings by making and eating every chocolate treat known to womankind. I was drooling over the description of a huge slice of chocolate blackout cake!

At least for me, Val's tendency to strenuously hammer everything that was not moving into submission didn't have quite the same appeal! You'll be glad to know that even she couldn't resist the chocolate body paint. (Yes, the recipe is included if you must try it.)


The interaction between Jamie and Val kept me turning the pages. It is well written and easy to follow. Warning to all readers on a diet, though - Kallmaker writes about food as seductively as she writes about sex.

This is a delightfully original romance that I find something new to enjoy each time I read it. As with all this author's novels you always get more than a romance. In this novel Jamie has a complex family history that is quite moving.

Many laugh out loud moments make this reading wonderfully sweet and very much a page turner. I was totally invested at the end of the first chapters with Jamie and Val - I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.

My admittedly high expectations from this author based on previous novels were delectably fulfilled in this novel. Scrumptious food, a charming Inn, wonderful characters, a little heartache, laugh out loud humor and a lot of love - I really couldn't want more than that in a romance. Add in terrific writing and you will find the author at the top of her game in this novel. Now for some bread pudding - yum!

Don't miss the further adventures of these charming people in the author's anthology 'Frosting on The Cake'

If you liked this novel you also gobble up these novels from this author -
Sugar
Just Like That
Paperback Romance
Carpool
Unforgettable
Embrace in Motion

Making up for lost time was a fun, light summer read. There were parts that would make you laugh outloud. I would recommend this read for anyone who wants a light, fun, lesbian romance. I actually tried the bread pudding recipe that is listed before one of the chapters and it worked and was so delicious that I think I have found my new holiday dessert to bring to dinner! Enjoy!

The intriguing cover (and title!) of MoonPies and Movie Stars by Amy Wallen promises a rollicking good read and it did just that.


It's late 1960's in Devine, Texas.We meet the central character Ruby as she is preparing to decorate her bowling alley for a wedding reception the town's womenfolk are having to celebrate the wedding of their favourite soap opera's stars. As her sister Loralva and her daughter's mother in law Imogene and others arrive to help we get a real sense of the town, their relationships and temperaments from the dialogue. More than a few characters remind me of a few folks from my small town!


"Becca Ann has such a nice smile, and whenever I ask her to do anything she grins like she wouldn't rather do nothing else! What more could you ask for in a daughter-in-law?"


As they settle in to watch the wedding on television, Ruby is stunned to see her daughter Violet in a commercial. Violet has been missing for four years. She upped and left her husband Harley and children Bubbie and Bunny without a word. Ruby ended up taking in the kids to live with her. Both children have some issues - Bubbie is fascinated with roadkill and Bunny is never without her Mrs. Beasley doll.


Ruby decides to go to Hollywood and find Violet. Loralva is going as well- to help find Violet - but also to fulfill her dream of meeting Bob Barker and being on the Price is Right game show. Harley's mother Imogene invites herself along, as she is thrilled to now be related to someone famous, plus they need her Winnebago to make the trip.


MoonPies and Movie Stars is an absolutely charming novel. Ruby is someone you wished you knew - she has a heart of gold and the determination to see anything through. There are lots of comedic moments and situations - especially when they arrive in Hollywood. But there is also a deeper thread running though the story. What is family and what makes a mother? Wallen deftly mixes the humorous and the poignant with Southern charm.

An absolute gem of a first novel, MoonPies and Movie Stars will appeal to fans of Fannie Flagg and Billie Letts. I'm looking forward to the next one!

This was a great story, so interesting with the differences and similarities with the characters. I loved the vivid style of writing and felt like I was right there with them on thier adventure on the road. Awesome book! I will eagerly await anything else written by this fabulous author, Amy Wallen.
Thanks for sharing this with the world. I wish all books were this entertaining.

Elizabeth Slick

What a great book! I loved every minute of it. The characters are quirky and funny, yet Wallen never loses sight of their humanity. You will want to read the whole section about The Price is Right again and again--laugh out loud hilarious. This is a writer who knows what she's doing--spinning a tale that grabs the reader page after page and never disappoints. I can't wait to read the next book by this terrific writer.

When Ruby sees a TV commercial featuring her runaway daughter Violet, dressed as the Buttermaid girl, she makes up her mind to find her. Ruby, her sister Loralva, and Violet's aggravating mother-in-law (whose only redeeming quality is that she owns the Winnebago needed to drive them across country) pile in and off they go.

The romp from Devine, Texas, to Hollywood begins at Ruby's bowling alley and ends at the studio of The Price is Right, with plenty of laughs in between. Stuck in the `bago with Violet's two unhappy children and the mother-in-law Violet had hoped to escape, Ruby quizzes her sister with price questions from the Sears catalog. It's a welcome distraction and a way for Loralva to win the game show's big prize. The only distraction that works for her grandchildren is the endless supply of Moon Pies brought along for the road trip.

In her quest to find her daughter, Ruby realizes there's more to being a mother than biology. She also learns Loralva's secret to a happy life: Pretend not to worry. It just gives you wrinkles.

Amy Wallen's first novel is touching and poignant, but it's mostly delightfully funny. The comic dialogue and the offbeat characters the Texas ladies meet along the way are clever enough to make an afternoon in your front porch swing fly by.

In 1976 in Divine, Texas grandmother Ruby Kincaid feels her life is overflowing with family concerns with no time for herself. The widow runs her late husband's bowling alley; serves as mother to her runaway daughter's abandoned children Bunny and Bubbie whose dad is about to remarry; and finally puts up with her impudent childish sister Loralva. Ruby copes nicely with her "moonpie" lifestyle until she sees her absentee daughter Violet starring in a TV commercial.

Outraged, Ruby decides enough of this inane separation; though she also knows she would not mind a bit of self time. She mounts a save the marriage and family rescue mission. Loading her Winnebago with MoonPies to limit the stops, Ruby, Loralva, Bunny, Bubbie and their paternal grandma Imogene head to Hollywood to bring Victoria home; with an agreed upon side trip to meet Bob Barker on The Price Is Right.

This is an amusing yet angst ridden historical tale in which rural Texas dirt meets Hollywood glitter on Hollywood and Vine. The trek west is fun as long as you are metaphysically arm-chairing the journey. Though some of the capers the Divine trio get into seem strained beyond farcical lampooning, fans will appreciate this interesting look at save the marriage while wondering whether they can succeed when Violet has seen the lights of Hollywood; Americanization of "How you gonna keep `em down on the farm after they've seen Paree?"

Harriet Klausner

This is the most important book I've ever read. I say this because the greatest pain in my life has come from sexual rejection and, worse, not knowing why a woman I loved dumped me for a bad boy who treated her like garbage. I was convinced that my tragic flaws were that I was intelligent, sensitive and respectful of woman. What David Shade does is describe the problem and, better, offers the solution. I have learned why woman have rejected me and I have learned that what I thought were my weaknesses are actually my strengths. I can use my intelligence to turn a woman on with my words and I can use my sensitivity to observe her carefully. After I read this book I underwent a transformation of my consciousness that was so profound, it exhausted me and I had to spend a weekend sleeping to recover. And the strange thing is when I did go out I ran into two beautiful woman I had desired and they both approached me where before they kept their distance. I feel that David Shade is a pioneer in the sense that he had the courage to travel into a very dark and mysterious forest of female sexuality and emerge with a story to tell that is inspiration and healing. David Shade is the Shaman of Sexuality.

No fluff, just lots of good information that will help any man in his relationships!

There is nothing useful in this book. It contains nothing but promotional talk about David Shade and the things he has done. If you are looking for usable information you will not find it in this book.

GUYS! Tired of wasting your time reading B.S. books?

You want your lady to want sex as often as you do and to never leave you? Of course you do! We all do. GET THIS BOOK NOW!

EVERY guy needs to read this! AMAZING!

Thanks, David!

First and foremost, if you are looking for a book that teaches you how to pick up women (ie Mystery Method or Charisma Arts), this is NOT the book you are looking for. If you are looking for a book that teaches sexual techniques and positions, this is also NOT it. That's what Kama Sutra is for. If you accept these two premises, then you won't be in the same boat as those clueless dudes who left 1 star review of this book.

Before reading this book, I've already owned David Shades more advanced book "Give Women Wild Screaming Orgasms", which is only available on his website. I was one of the original reviewers of this book before it was even published. There is quite a bit of overlaps of contents. My suggestion for which book to get is simple.

1) If you are not successful of women (chances are, if you are looking at this book, you probably aren't), or if you don't have much experience, then this book is for you. It provides the most basic fundamentals in understanding female sexuality. If you like it, go ahead and upgrade to the next book. If this book is not your tea, you can simply resell the book right here on amazon.

2) On the other hand, if you have some experiences with women, I would highly recommend "Give Women Wild Screaming Orgasms" over this one. Basically that book covers most of the topics in "The Secrets of Female Sexuality", and much more. I bought "Screaming" 1.5 years ago when I was a virgin; I will tell you how the book helped changing my life (and my attitudes) in just a moment.

$20 is a small price to pay for getting the correct mindset about WOMEN, and more importantly, about YOURSELF. David's central idea is simple. You are a man, so be like one. Stand up tall for yourself and for causes you believe in. Stop getting excuses; start taking RESPONSIBILITIES. In other words, when you believe yourself and treat others with respect, you will garner respect in return.
Once this "theme" is internalized, it's a piece of cake to incorporate the techniques. When one commands respect, it's natural for women to follow. Women wants to be led (by a REAL man), not the other way around. (when's the last time you see a successful relationship between a weak guy and a strong woman?)

David's other main ideas include getting comfortable of your own sexuality, being sensually powerful, how to be a masterful lover, that women are highly sexual creatures (more so than men), and women's sexuality...etc. Yet it all resides on the premise that you are personally powerful!. None of these will work if you don't believe in yourself. My favorite quote from the book is the following: "Being a masterful lover is about knowledge and beliefs". It doesn't matter how many women you slept with; it's all about knowledge and beliefs.

When I got the other book 1.5 years ago, I was at the crossroad of my life. I was graduating from the best university in Canada (and no, it's not Queens or McGill), yet I had absolutely no idea what I want in life. This book reminded that I was the only person responsible for my own life. If it was going nowhere, I had to do something about it. Anyway, I decided to backpack and work throughout Europe. Biggest gamble of my life. It was during my 10 months there that I met my current girlfriend. She was 30 yrs old, very smart, sexy and beautiful. She never had a boyfriend before despite being chased by over a dozen guys over the years. To make it even more challenging, she never had sex or even masturbate in her entire life. Yet by the third night of meeting her (we met first on the internet), she was already naked on my bed. She later told me she was already heads over heels for me when we chatted online and on the phone. Somehow, she could feel that I was different from most guys she knew. She could feel that I was the man. More importantly, she trusted me when I led her toward wild & steaming hot adventures.

I am currently studying in grad school and she quitted her job just so she could spend several months with me. We had lots of great sex, and my god, she squirted quite a few times (Btw David, next time you should have a new section on how to clean a bed after women squirting). We did a lot of wild things that she didn't imagine was possible. Right now we are in a long distance relationship, and she changes from a conservative women who never masturbates, to one that wants phone sex twice a day. It's an amazing feeling to have a beautiful woman who is crazy about you emotionally, intellectually, and sexually.

One final note. I was 24 when I met her. I was maturing into a real man. Thanks to the information and knowledge from David Shade (and also Charisma Arts), I could interact with a woman more easily and smoothly. Yet none of it is possible if I didn't take responsibilities of my own life.

If something is missing in your life (women? money? travel?), what are YOU going to do about it?

"When Evelyn Peerbaugh hung the ancient sign in front of her house, she had no idea how life was about to change.
In a matter of days she became the newly widowed owner of a busy boardinghouse, trying to cope with the lives and emotions of the most incompatible group of women ever gathered under one roof.
As the women settle into their roles at Peerbaugh Place, they discover the true meaning of friendship... and the joy of lives tryly SURRENDERED TO GOD."
[from the book of the back cover]

I have not read many books in the Christian Fiction genre; and the one I have read was very preachy. So I was a little sceptical when I purchased this book. How wrong I was!!! This book is like curling up with a wonderful hot cup of cocoa, or your favourite tub of Haagen-Daaz ice cream; you savour every minute and are really sad when it's finished. Which is exactly how I felt about this book. There are lessons to be learnt for everyone, but they are very subtle and not "in your face". The story and different characters really make you think about your own behaviour, thoughts, reactions in certain situations etc.
With so much negativity whenever you turn on the TV, or read the papers, this book provided some "realistic" escapism for me,so much so, that I have ordered the other books in the series. It just leaves a nice warm feeling in your heart when you finish.

This is a fun and joyous read about a group of women living in a boarding house who discover what real sisterhood means. It is sweet, but not saccharine, compassionate and helpful, but most of all fun. A friend's husband read it and just could not stop laughing. Everyone I have loaned it to has loved it.

Okay, I bought this book because it was on sale and its premise reminded me of Penelope Stokes books. And when I started it, I was not sure I would finish it. But then I started to care about the characters and I do want to know what happens to them. I cared enough to buy the rest of the series lol although I plan to donate the set to my church library.

THE SISTER CIRCLE is predictable, but still a pleasant read. The premise has a new widow, Evelyn Peerbaugh taking borders into her home.

Evelyn is amazed that within a short time after putting up her "Rooms 4 Rent" sign, women are coming to inquire about her boarding house. The women that she rents to are all very different and from the very beginning there are personality clashes among them. Evelyn is a good person, but finds it hard to be decisive and make house rules. Mae is an old hippy who lives in her own world. Tessa is sanctimonious and preachy. Audra tries so hard to make a good life for herself and her daughter that she is unbending. Finally, her daughter Summer is a sweet child doing her best to be the perfect daughter that her mother requires. Several other women are also brought into the mix. Two of the characters are professed Christians and many of the problems that the ladies face are solved with words from the Bible. I thought that the character descriptions of the women were well done. My biggest problem with the story was the interaction between the characters. They were often too blunt with one another and seemed to feel that they had the right to offer advice or ask questions that were much too personal. Those parts of the story were very unbelievable and rather annoying.

I generally enjoy the genre of this book, so when I saw it on clearance for $2 at the local book store I decided to give it a try. I felt the story was alright but the writing was... not great.
I don't mean to sound too critical (and I haven't read any of the author's other books) but I found the writing to be almost to "by the book". I noticed at the beginning she used a lot of analogies to describe things and in general way too many product references, such as (not actual quote) "They were eating Doritos while X played XBox and Y read People Magazine".

I guess I just found the writing to be something I would expect from a school assignment where the teacher had a list of writing skills she wanted the students to incorporate into the story. BUT I gave the story 3 stars because I did read the whole thing in about 2 days and didn't feel like I wasted my time.

To be honest I am surprised at the high rating this book seemed to have received from all the readers so far. I love chick-lit, the funnier the better, but this book felt a little flat for me. What is odd is I cannot pin point what I did not like about the book, I just really struggled to get into the story, and really struggled just to finish it. I think my main problem was I was expecting it to be a 5-star book, and it really was only a 3 1/2....however, since I was so disappointed, it felt like a 2-star book. Maybe if I hadn't had such high expectations I would have enjoyed it some what better.

One of my beefs with a lot of fictional characters is that they're either so perfect you can't relate to them, or so unlikeable all you want to do is kill them off yourself. I want to hang out with these people - they've fun AND funny, and supportive of each other, each character has a distinct voice and there's conflict and tension without anyone having to be a victim. A great, fun read - bravo, Theresa! I'll definitely be reading more of your work.

This is the most real book I've read in long time! The way the characters interact with one another is so true to life you feel as if you're in the story yourself. The only thing I did not like was the ending. While the message was well received, I found it to be quite abrupt. But other than that, this was a great book and a definite must read!

This book is such a fun read, revolving around the lives of six improv comedians who work at Spur of the Moment. The main main character is Ana, but we actually see the perspective of everyone else, Chelsea, Marin, Jason, Scott and Ramiro. It was such a fun read that I started yesterday night and finished it this morning. It is definately a fun, beach read.

Ana, who has always had a crush on Jason, talks about how she wants to be someone in life and not just do improv part time and her office job during the day. She has always aspired to do stand-up, but she is too scared. Jason is a teacher, environmentalist, and a vegetarian, BUT has been in "love" with Marin for a long time, yet she only sleeps with him here and there. Marin is a beautiful, funny, Britney look-a-like who hates her day job, loves her job at Spur of the Moment, has rich parents who never go and see her, and is always searching for more. She gets the opportunity to go to LA and do a pilot for a WB upcoming series. There she meets Jay, whom she falls for, while Jason is at home, brooding over her. Ramiro is latino and gay (and thats why his father won't speak to him). He writes novels, yet doesn't publish them or try to get them to be published. Ana, being the great friend that she is, reads one of them and loves it. She sends his book to a few publishers and hopes that he gets something out of it. Chelsea actually does not live with them (the other five do) but is a personal trainer by day. She meets Rob, whom she falls for, yet, she hates his job as a firefighter. And last but not least, Scott. Scott has always had this thing for Ana, but since she has always been crushing over Jason, he doesn't do anything. They actually make out and one day she realizes, that hey, maybe something between them can happen.

I don't want to give out more from the book, but that is just some of the problems that the group encounters. It was funny, romantic, sad and all around great. As a previous reviewer said, it reminds me of Sex in the City, since we see everyone's perspective, but there still is sort of a main character. The difference is, we see guys' perspectives, which adds a little more sizzle to this already enchanting and funny book. ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!!

I read a variety of teen books, then give reviews on them to the local bookstore which I work at. This book may stand out from the rest because it actually quotes what others teens themselves have to say on various topics. However, it lacks content and appears to be like many other teen books, addressing similar issues in similar ways. It won't bore you but it definitely won't leave you breathless. If you want a book with the same edge but filled with content try "Stories for a Teen's Heart" by Alice Gray or even Wade F. Horn's "New Teen Book." I can't think of many other books of this nature but the lack of content spoils a lot of the originality of this book.

"Teen Girlfriends" is so touching in every way. As I was reading it, I was able to remember the times that I experienced the thoughts and experiences that were expressed by other girls. The book is great in that almost everyone can relate to it.

from Blue Jean Online (www.bluejeanonline.com)

by Truc Doan, 14, Teen Editor

The media loves portraying how difficult and angst-ridden the teenage years are for girls. Very few times, however, do they mention what helps these girls survive: their friends. In Teen Girlfriends, Julia DeVillers puts together a compilation of different situations among friends. The book goes through all topics, from popularity to road trips. The stories are cute, if slightly off the reality slide. Friendship is a unique thing, different in every situation, and the major flaw of the book is that it tries to generalize and explain too much. The purpose of the book is slightly confusing. It is very similar to one long essay, and though it services those needing illumination of the term 'friendship,' it hardly captures the interests of real teenagers who know what true friendship is about.

Reading this book made me feel as if I were getting a lecture about how I should feel in certain situations. DeVillers brings up an event that could have happened and justifies it with a quote from a girl the reader most likely does not know. I never felt that I was truly introduced to the girls who contributed to the book. DeVillers often uses the term 'we' to include the reader, which I found disconcerting because it reminded me of a parent clarifying the world for me. The whole book just gave me an awkward feel.

The book does have some redeeming qualities, though. It acts similarly to a self-help book in that it tells readers that they are not the only ones to experience a certain situation. Though not a big fan of self-help books myself, I can understand DeVillers' purpose and admire her for it. Very few books pay close attention to teenage girls. This one at least makes an effort.

Copyright 2003 Blue Jean Online

True to the form of the other books in the best-selling Girlfriends book series, Teen Girlfriends zeroes in on friendship as today's teen girls experience it. Friendships in adolescence have their ups and downs, and this book reassures girls that what they're going through with their friends is normal. The girls interviewed are candid to the point that every girl who so much as skims the pages will relate to some, if not most of, the material. Girls' connections with their friends are especially critical now, during this time of national challenges, and this grounded-in-reality book is the perfect comfort and companion. Every one of America's daughters, granddaughters, and nieces deserves a copy!
-- Catherine Dee, author of The Girls' Book of Friendship

I thought the Teen Girlfriends Book was great. Theres nothing out there like it. After reading it, a sense of relief came over me knowing that someone out there knows how i feel or had gone through the same thing i had. It was nice to know i wasnt the only one. This book was great because Real teens shared their stories and it helped me understand things more and even helped me change my ways alittle. I learned how to be a better friend and how to cope with things. Every teen girl should own a copy of this book!

This book is part how-to guide and part novel, but all fun. Learn to bring out a more sensual you and then follow three very different, but likable heroines as they do the same. I liked the idea and the execution.

Flirty and fun, WEAPONS OF MASS SEDUCTION teaches the reader to remember the sensual side of life. Pia Jamison is every woman: a music executive who has found success on all fronts. She has no problem landing a man or using her feminine prowess to entice them. But, she is fed up with failed relationships and heartache and commits herself to celibacy. As time passes and the internal clock winds down, Pia gives up on landing a relationship and seeks a man to simply aid in fathering a child.

After her laughable attempt at securing a donor, Pia's assistant enrolls her in the seminar: Weapons of Mass Seduction. And so begins the journey for both Pia and the reader, as the story delves deeply into the lives of Pia and two other woman whose sensual selves have been denied for far too long.

This novel is an entertaining read with its sassy humor and headstrong heroine. As the reader learns, sensuality has very little to do with sex, so although Pia has proven that she can be an elegant femme fatale, even she needs to brush up on her sensual skills. The beauty in this story is its exploration of Pia's insecurities as she stumbles in love and then allows fear and doubt to undermine her efforts. Although WEAPONS OF MASS SEDUCTION initially has a light edge to it, it eventually delves into deeper issues, honest and painful examining, as Pia struggles through events that would devastate even the strongest shero.

Here, Lori Woolridge-Bryant successful creates a unique an intriguing story about the delight of femininity and the power of sensuality. This novel promises, and certainly succeeds, in unleashing the sensual self of its readers while thoroughly entertaining them in the process.

Reviewed by a. Kai
for The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Fortysomething Pia Jamison has the booming career every woman wants. She is finacially stable, and now her biological clock is ticking loudly. There's just one problem, she's vowed celibacy and is not romantically involved with anyone. Her relationship problems land her at a flity workshp called "Weapons of Mass Seduction" where she meets two other women who are also trying to find their flirtatious selves as well.

I was excited about the topic of the book. I first flipped to the back and was intrigued by the quizzes to see if I was a WMS! I thought that the book was well written. There was a lull in the middle of the book where I struggled to keep my attention focused on reading, but towards the end, the pace picked up and the book finished well. I did find myself wanting to have more insight on Becca and Flo. It seemed as I read the back that I would know more about them, then I was only introduced to them at the WMS workshop and through glimpses afterwards in the storyline. I think the author missed out on an opportunity to really explode with making Becca and Flo have more of their own storyline.

I would recommend this book for your reading pleasure! And make sure to take the test to find out if you are a WMS!

author Tamara Grant
Words of Inspiration Book CLub

Pia Jamison is a music video executive who is in her 40s and is still single. Pia has given up on the idea of marriage but her biological clock is loudly ticking. Since her self-imposed celibacy, Pia is out of practice when trying to attract a man so her assistant tricks her into attending a flirting workshop called Weapons of Mass Seduction. At the workshop, Pia meets two other women named Florence and Rebecca. Florence is a Texas southern belle that is desperately trying to save her marriage. Rebecca is a small town girl who is trying to become the seductive diva that she always wanted to be. The three women go back home to practice what they've learned. Flo reunites with her husband but she's now uncertain if she wants to stay in her stagnant marriage. Rebecca now has become confident and sexy "Becca" but is she going too far? Pia gets pregnant and falls in love but it's not with her baby's father. What will become of these three women?

Weapons of Mass Seduction is an informative, delightful novel by Lori Bryant-Woolridge. Woolridge expertly created a perfect mix of an engaging storyline and a sensuality manual rolled into one. Pia, Flo, and Becca all come from different backgrounds but all of them are longing to become enticing, sensual women. These characters represent what a lot of women are going through on a daily basis. Readers will find that the tips that these women learn through the workshop can be applied to their own lives. Woolridge even includes Weapons of Mass Seduction self tests in the back of the book to see how seductive you are. This story has a healthy dose of humor and emotionally intense scenes that will stick with you long after you finished the last page. Weapons of Mass Seduction is a fun read that should be enjoyed by all women.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert
for Urban Reviews

Pia, Flo and Becca all trying to get their groove back or wanting to awaken the diva in them for several different reasons meet up at a workshop titled Weapons of Mass Seduction. The reader gets to journey with the characters as they progress in this 4 day workshop of flirtation and seduction skills.
We are allowed to see how these women put their skills to the test once they get home. The problem is the book lacks luster and pizazz once they arrive home. The storyline drags and you find yourself going from warm to cold very quickly. I absolutely enjoyed the idea of the book however it seems trying to continue the story after the seminar was a challenge for the author. None the less I belive it is worth the read. Plus this is one of my favorite authors.

This is not the kind of book I generally read (chick lit) so I was a little uncertain. But what a fun surprise! The best way to describe this book is a zesty salsa. The main characters were colorful and, for the most part, likeable. The town and it's people were just different enough to be real. The writing bounced between English and Spanish so neatly, I almost felt bilingual. The ending was not completely satisfying, but oh well. I'm glad I read it.

Ms. Martinez's book came at the right time for me. I was beyond busy with 2 stressful jobs, about to get on a plane in stormy weather and was needing a laugh badly. The book delivered with a story of love, mariachi, religion, drug dealing, transvestites and a little witchcraft thrown in. Martinez's book blends Mexican and American culture to render a story that ultimately examines what love is- the love of lifelong friends, the love of long-time admirers, the love of god, the love of being bad and the plain need to just be loved. It's not sentimental or mushy. Magic realism peeks in now and again, but doesn't overshadow. I give it 4 stars because it was a great book, but the end left me wanting a bit.

Inspired by La Lotería, a Mexican game of chance not unlike bingo, the novel is a joyous story of mamacitas and mariachis, fiestas and Tupperware parties, rodeos and Miss Magma beauty contests. In Caramba! the American experience emerges in a brilliant new language and landscape, both touching and dazzlingly fresh. (summary by the Latino Recommended Reading List from the Association of American Publishers's * Publishing Latino Voices for America Task Force)

Caramba, a debut novel by Nina Marie Martínez, is a zany, breezy, often hilarious story filled with the quirky characters who live in fictional Lava Landing, a farming community in California dominated by the Big Cheese factory. The chapters unfold as `turns of the cards' in the Mexican game of chance called `La Lotería.' Illustrations of the cards precede each chapter and hint at what's to come.

The ambiance is pure Chicano. Mexican and American pop cultures blend in a potpourri that makes a culture all its own with Spanglish as its language. Witchcraft and the folkloric wisdom of common Mexican proverbs are perfectly at home alongside yard sales, Tupperware parties, and trendy American fashions and music.

The novel is really a series of vignettes featuring six major characters. Their stories are loosely bound together by plot lines that are not as important as the characters themselves and their dreams of finding true love.

The principal characters are life-long best friends Consuelo Constancia González Contreras (who legally changed her name to Consuelo Sin Vergüenza) and her pal Natalie. Nat and Sway's principal quest is to free Consuelo from her phobia of public transportation and fear of traveling more than 30 miles from her home. The phobias stem from the fact that Sway lost her father, don Pancho Macías Contreras, who, while drunk, passed out on railroad tracks and got clobbered by an oncoming train.

Don Pancho, a womanizer still during his long stay in Purgatory, visits the girls in their nightmares. He pleads for them to round up the citizens of his village in Mexico to pray for him, and thus spring him from Purgatory into his hacienda heaven where, incidentally, only English is spoken.

Then there's Javier, a born again Christian who uses his mariachi band to sing the songs of repentance and salvation. His evangelizing has yet to clinch his sexy mother Lulabell's salvation. She herself is struggling between handing her soul over to the Lord or to the Devil. While singing of salvation at the local jail, Javier becomes enamored of the alluring, drug-dealing prisoner Lucha who turns out to be his half sister. Javier concludes "God is much more complicated than I thought."

True-Dee, a transvestite, runs the local beauty parlor, and is a friend of all the girls. She longs for the true love of one good man.

There is a full cast of secondary characters just as quirky, such as La Señora Linda, a super-psychic, whose powers fail when it comes to her run-down house "in dire need of a new roof and a paint job."

The book is punctuated with illustrations of menus, grocery lists, Lulabell's map of Mexican men, jukebox listings, classifieds, letters to an advice columnist, and cut-outs for Mexican paper dolls.

The improbable--Lulabell's message from Jesus scribbled in the guacamole of her tortilla--is juxtaposed alongside the mundane--La Yarda tag sale.

Binding the vignettes together is the theme best expressed by Lulabell: "Love is a lot of hard work and sufferin, and it don't never end." Yet the suffering is worth it. Don Pancho says Hell is a place where "You will never know love".

The language is wonderful, borrowing from both English and Spanish in getting exactly the right word. Lulabell informs her Alberto, "If you wanna be my mero mero pistolero, then you've gots to do some hoochie coochie conmigo."

And if the exact word doesn't exist in either language, Martínez invents the perfectly appropriate one. For example, Nat and Sway talk of potential "disastrophes" while making their "primperations for the Baile Grande". As Nat says, "English is a live language. It's always changin."

The author has an ear for the sounds of words and pays close attention to the rhythm of her phrases. Entire passages beg to be read aloud.
While someone who speaks only English can enjoy the novel, a bilingual reader will be laughing more, missing none of the innuendos or nuances!

Easy read. Has won awards. I thought it was a great chick book. The book cover is great, as are the other colorful touches that enhance the book pages. Magical realism meets Tom Robbins. It reminded me of "Even Cowgirls get the Blues", but not so radical and with artistic treats.

Im so excited someone asked me to write a review about this book.I ordered it through amazon .com in about two weeks it arrived.When i first read this book I felt a kinship with the author,then the more i read I started thinking James SAINT. James and I have alot in common. Then it was like oh my god this book is totally about me.Once again James engages and titilates the reader, well he does me anyway.Loved the book so much [...]. I bought to more copies to give to my James st. james fan club. Two othere girls i know that helped me read party monster. It was sad to me that this book such a great work of art, was on the clearance rack.But I am in a small southern town ,well what do they know?Well to rap up here ,I loved the book.I devowered the book.A must read. Mike Tudor

Although /Freak Show/ has its cons (clichéd characters, jarring syntax, etc.), these are far outweighted by its pros. Any teen, gay, straight, bi, or other could identify with Billy's perpetual quest for acceptance and fight against labels. And who wouldn't take satisfaction in seeing the oh-so-perfect blonde Nazi bigots get utterly cast down? In this sense, the plot takes few surprising twists, but that makes the few change-ups of the traditional underdog story stand out all the more.

The one thing I didn't like here (and this is purely on principle) was the clichéd characters. The mean cheerleaders with their Bitch-Queen (Billy's archnemesis), the violent Cro-Magnon football players, one or two of which turn out to have hearts of gold, the pious homophobes who justify all their cruelty with God, the brilliant, invisible "shadow group," the heartless absentee father, the no-nonsense maid, the tough-as-nails reporter and her perky foil, and of course the sweet-but-vapid, gorgeous love intrest who gradually gains depth over the course of the novel. No surprises there. The only true character surprise was the identity of Billy's mysterious stalker/wannabe-rapist. St. James absolutely broadsided me with that one.

To sum myself up, most of /Freak Show/ is clichéd, and often formulaic, but this just helps his few surprises pop out and amaze us all the more.

Oh, what a thrill to finally read Freak Show! And in two days, couldn't put the darn thing down, really. It was, shall we say, manifique, super sparkly, and have no fear, all that glitters here on every fabulous page truly is gold. Yes, James St. James has added another gem to his writing hand with Freak Show. The heartfelt tale of Florida transplant turned aspiring Homecoming Queen, this story is chock-full of laughs, one-liners, and enough to zing to keep you ding-a-linging until the very last word. Cheerio, Mr. James. Cheerio.

After seeing 'Party Monster', I was anxious to read James' 'Disco Bloodbath' and it delivered well beyond the movie. 'Freak Show', however, is an extremely predictable story and it is written in an elementary fashion. Its not a seat-gripper either.
Honestly, you could skip through about half of the book and not really miss anything but humdrum fashion rambling, typical of James St. James, I guess. If you love the man, you'll love the book.
It's a quick read. Perhaps more appropriate for teenagers.
All in all, I would recommend it, just don't pay more than two or three bucks for it. But yeah, Disco Bloodbath is way way better.
Enjoy!

James St James is a wonderful writer. His metaphors and descriptions of situations blow my mind. I read disco bloodbath 4 times and am on my second read of Freak Show. I cannot get enough.