Digital Books

The Property by G.R. Greene begins with a quick introduction to Kath, a woman of 'Emotional flaws or character flaws?...Take your pick.'

After reading the excerpt (which was very well written) I felt I really, really had a sense of who Kath was. Not the most pleasant character, but there were parts of her that elicited empathy from me. Despite being ornery, her expressed frailties made her human in my eyes.

By the end, I had completely forgotten this was meant to be a mystery book. When I recapped the synopsis, a few of the clues (Mr. Arthur wanting the property, the strange movement outside the window) came back as 'ah-ha' that's right this is a mystery.

The strength of this piece in the beginning is the author's character work. It seems as if the mystery story and Kath's story are going to be dueling it out for supremacy as the book moves on. The only advice I'd offer the author is to let one be the clearer winner earlier on. This would make a fine gen-lit book, but if it is meant to be mystery, let the suspense breathe more and show itself in the beginning.

Overall, I enjoyed this excerpt. The author's talent as a writer is clear and the character work is very well done. It is no easy task to create a believable character who is both disagreeable and empathetic. Good job.

Like everyone else, I loved the first line. What writer wouldn't!

I'm not usually one who likes novels in first person but, for this one, it seemed entirely right. Scarey stuff this, and not for the faint of heart. We are hooked right from that line and the phone call to the realtor. One constantly feels frightened for Kath Havens and the sense of mystery is always there. A very intriguing plot that begs you to read more.

G. R. Greene's engrossing excerpt has almost mechanically pristine, punchy writing that fits main character Katherine Havens' impatient, determinedly uninvolved personality, ("Maybe. Probably. It didn't matter." "No city. No crowds. Peace.")

Simple brilliance, "Katherine B. dominated any space she occupied. It was hard to imagine anyone, even a husband, sharing air with her." "I wasn't accustomed to such a well-populated bed--six knees altogether--and I lay awake for a long time."

I enjoyed this very much. The excerpt ended before we find out fully what Katherine's "dark areas" are all about, and I missed any hint in what came before that she had a psi ability. The abrupt transition was a surprise, but Greene's writing is so smooth it can easily be forgiven.

It's obvious that The Property is more than a house on a parcel of land. It is a tantalizing story of one family's past and one woman's present.

When Kath buys the old Carson place it seems an impetuous act, and maybe it is. However, I'm willing to bet that as the story unfolds we find Kath was destined to buy this house. The death of old Alice Carson surely plays a central role in the story.

There is a story here that I wouldn't mind reading more of.

Rarely do I read a thriller or mystery story that actually causes me to feel my hairs crawl, but this story did. That is how well the author captured the creepy nature of whoever it is that is "watching" the house. I got a little jumpy every time someone inside the house walked by a window. To me, that is an excellent example of descriptive writing that does not go overboard.

The main character is a character and someone that is difficult to like, because she is difficult. She is contrarian and a little weird, which is what makes the story work. The back story is interesting, as well, and I am sure it will provide some insights into why Kath is the way she is.

The story flowed smoothly and the dialogue was crisp and clean. I did find a few mis-spellings (got to love spell check...it spells the wrong word correctly) and, in one instance, the repetition of a sentence. Those, however, are minor errors that can be cleaned up quickly. A great job that I would love to read in its entirety.

This is a delightful intro to the world of Thor McGraw and his funny family and friends. From the quirky neighbor, Mrs. Plum to his parents being in the witness protection program, the events of the mystery are intertwined with everday life. It leaves me waiting for more from "Detective" McGraw!

With a smooth into and a high-speed chase, this one is no bore,
It was a pleasure meeting Mrs. Plum, Sabrina, and investigator Thor.
With great characters and thrilling action, it left me wanting more,
The adventures of Prof. Thor will soon be the stuff of legend and lore.
Oden would be proud.

Interesting mystery with a good mix of characters and humor to match. The content keeps you motivated to keep reading. Will be a hard book to put down. Looking forward to reading more. I give this a two thumbs up!!!

The start of this excerpt highlights a fantastic family relationship. The easy connection between Thor and his daughter Bree is nice to read about, and I like the communication that passes between Thor and his dog, as well. This seems like a happy home, despite the hint of something amiss with Thor's wife.

The interaction between Thor and Mrs. Plum was interesting and infuriating. I like that Thor is completely baffled by the way she manages to work everything around to her advantage, and I am curious about the favors she will ask Thor to do in return for the ones she has done for him in this first meeting.

Molly's conversation with Thor is painful, especially as we realize that she is moving on with her life and leaving Thor pining after her. Some nice suspense is built up as I wondered what it was that would have landed Thor's name in the paper.

The scene of the bald man trying to run down Thor is exciting and tense, although the foreshadowing of it is a bit heavy-handed. Peter saying a big bald guy with a broken nose was looking for Thor and then announcing that he told the man that Thor always goes running in between classes meant I wasn't terribly surprised to find a car bearing down on Thor during his run.

This excerpt is intriguing. I'd be eager to learn more about Thor's mystery situation and to see if things work out between him and Molly.

Thor McGraw and the Ice Man Murder by T. Drennan presents the most unlikely of sleuths: a single father academic type with allergies to cats and perfume and is still love sick over his ex-wife. Oh yeah, and he happens to be the son of one of Boston's most famous police detectives.

The bulk of the excerpt introduces us to Thor and his life. His morning routine of breakfast with Bree (Sabrina), his 6-year-old daughter, is interrupted by an impossible next door neighbor. Thor's allergic reactions are detailed to Mrs. Plum's perfume and cat, and I except they'll play an important role later. Then a phone call from his ex, Molly, to apologize for a reference to Thor in Philip's ('Philip? Who was Philip?') article in today's paper. Unfortunately Thor can't read it because 'his' paper is covered in mud from Mrs. Plum's garden.

Once the interruptions are over, he moves on with his day. Thor drops Bree off at school and heads to his teaching job. When he goes for his jog after the first class, he is ruthlessly chased by a bald man in a Cutlass, who then unleashes a Rotweiller on Thor. What did he do to deserve this?

With Thor and most of the main characters introduced, the mystery is set to unfold. This excerpt was both an engaging example of 'regular guy' character development and intriguing murder mystery. I can't wait to see what happens next.

V. O. is yet another short story by Betty Dravis that is simply impossible to put down once you've started reading it. Betty writes with a beautiful simplicity that is very engaging and she works in details effortlessly in such a way that you never get bored. I strongly recommend this tale for fans of horror stories and tales that have quick, sharp plot twists and surprises at the end.

V. O. tells the story of two old friends meeting at their social club. Charles Hudson, a man who has had an incredible life-altering experience with his wife of forty years, meets his own buddy Walter. Walter simply can't get over at how well Charles appears; it seems as if Charles no longer is old; he now possesses the youthful vigor of a young man. Charles tells Walter how he and his wife Barb managed to turn back the hands of time--if, that is, Walter can keep the story and the way of regaining your youth a big secret.

Charles then tells Walter where they went to get their youth back and how he and his wife Barb went about it. The author is careful to add many details to the scenes to make her characters and the scenarios come to life very quickly; and of course your imagination works naturally to make the story just a little but shaded by the way you envision the scenes, too.

Eventually Walter and his wife Evie do just what Charles had told them to do--and they regain their youth as well. However, when Walter tells Charles precisely how they regained their youth there is a dark, horrifying secret revealed that will shock you and send shivers up your spine.

I thoroughly recommend this fine short story by Betty Dravis for fans of horror; and people who enjoy creative stories with incredible plot twists at the end are highly likely to enjoy this tale.

Thank you for an incredible story, Betty!

Well folks, I've finally settled down for the evening. The fireplace is sending warmth to me as I sit here in my over-stuffed leather chair. I have my usual smoking jacket on and a pipe by my side. Oh yes, some brandy also on the side table. I chose a few short selections to read and finally decided on this tale by Betty Dravis entitled, simply, as V.O.

I usually do not review literature simply because I feel that there are much better reviewers out there that can do more justice to it than me. That said, I have to say that this was an exciting, intriguing tale that hooked me immediately and hit all the right buttons to make you read more and more. The fact that Ponce De Leon's spirit was looking over my shoulder (and cautioning me in Spanish!) should give you some indication of the suspense included within.

It is a story about a man whose appearance has changed so much that he looked like he found the fountain of youth. As we find out, it was a special deal he got, and he offers the same opportunity to a friend. I will not reveal too much more or else I would be known henceforth as Metamorpho Spoiler Seer!

Betty Dravis' style is remarkable. She really gives no timeline and your imagination will take over as to when these events happen. Her writing reminds me of the feeling I got when I read John O'Hara's "Appointment in Samarra". It is that tic toc ticking of underlying dread you feel as you become more and more absorbed into the story as it unfolds. You know something will happen - the punchline will appear - but you don't know when or how. Ms. Dravis employs expert writing skills to this - hitting on all the elements which make up a good story. I think if you read this tale, you will realize how horrifying it really is. It also conveys the motif that we don't always know the full facts about things until it's too late.

The fact that Ponce De Leon screamed and ordered his men to immediately set sail for St. Augustine should give you some indication.

In any event, this is a really fine read. It's short, to the point, and difficult to do because you have to give the essentials in an economic way. Well done Ms. Dravis. Be careful though because your beloved Metamorpho just might write a book!

In closing, I am thinking of changing my review name. How does "Metamorphos Read Too" sound to you?

experience or youth - pick one or the other ----Metamorpho

I'm keeping my review vague.
Charles and his pregnant wife share a dark secret.They've just returned from a vacation.
There is suspense and mystery.
Shocking to read Charles recommend the trip to one of his friends.
It is a trip.
Thank you Betty, for the ride:)

Sometimes it's a good thing to not peruse introductions or reviews to / for a story before you read it, particularly one like this short by Betty Dravis. The element of surprise is what makes this descriptive, transporting tale so enjoyable. I was intrigued because of the title, "V.O.," initials of my maiden (now middle) name. Little did I know I'd take a trip to Mexico, live out someone's fantasy and then BOOM! get hit with a left hook. A well-told tale in a challenging genre.

I found Betty Dravis' short story V.O. to be a veritable offering of vivid description, engaging dialogue and faultless pacing. She describes what seems to be the perfect vacation, one that leaves people feeling rejuvenated and physically looking younger.

But at what cost? The answer to this question is what makes V.O. such a spine-chilling read. How far would you go to obtain good health and youth? I think I'll pass on accepting a red card.

I highly recommend this Amazon Short, and I see now why it is one of Amazon's most popular! Kudos, Ms. Dravis!

Mr. Shannon shows himself to be an excellent storyteller with a writing cadence that quickly pulls you into the lives of the characters and their unique relationships. A must read about the good, the bad and the ugly of our prison system. Poses many questions about relationships between the imprisoned and their interactions with the system and all those who work in it. First novel is a winner!

Great story- It is one I would definitely pick when I browse the book stores. It leaves you hanging- I look forward to the rest of the story. I like the writing style too- I am not big into lengthy descriptions- but I really enjoy great use of the English language and a reading challenge. So far this is right up my alley. Keep up the good work.

Prison life is one in which I have always wondered about. While reading the small portion of this book, I found myself disappointed that I did not have the rest of the story in front of me. I am looking forward to meeting the rest of the characters and seeing what it was like being on the inside.

This book excerpt gives a glimpse of prison life at Attica Corrctional Facility and the uprising of the inmates decades ago, from the perspectives of a guard, a teacher and an inmate. Through their eyes we begin to see the horror of prison life, and can only guess at the tragedy that is about to unfold. A compelling beginning to what will likely be a riveting story.

In a world of virtual this and surreal that, Kevin Patrick's descent into the Attica rabbit hole is the type of reality check that we sorely need. From the bleak despair of the grey walls to the shocking blasts of vulgarity, from the 13th slam of the locked doors to the lingering images of an "LT" with a knife at his throat, this gripping excerpt draws the reader into the dark side of humanity and leaves aside the myths of prison life. One can only hope that the better angels of the narrative prevail to see, freely, the light of day. I wonder if Mary ever learns of the journey from whence her Kevin would someday emerge...

The first part of Loiselle's novel certainly made me want to read more. She writes about a topic often dismissed in Literature, yet it involves a large portion of the population who live within our communities. I found the descriptions of the elderly often disturbing, but that is what makes the novel so powerful. Ignoring the aging, or failing to show the true nature of nursing homes would be far easier than capturing their true essence. In contrast, I think Loiselle takes on the challenge with grace and does, in fact, create a true and vivid description of seniors. She also writes a believable main character who is both naive and pretentious as she starts to understand a more complex and disturbing world in which she lives. I'd love to read the rest of the novel!

Beth is a bright, well-intentioned, and hard-working college student who is home for the summer and decides to work in a nursing home--mostly because of the attractive wage it provides, but also because of the hint of selflessness it suggests about her.

In this excerpt, Ms. Loiselle deftly creates a world where the melancholy air is tinged with the smell of a place where no one wants to be. Where youth and idealism are set on a collision course with frailty and callousness in a way that urges the reader on to find out what a place like this does to a girl like her.

Ms. Loiselle immerses us in a world not often even glimpsed, the world of aging without grace, of nursing homes and bed pans and bodily fluids and dementia. Her character Beth is plunged into this world straight from the rarified atmosphere of Brown University, with as little preparation as the reader. She is a keen and straightforward observer, a wonderful main character, just a down to earth college student who needs a decent- paying summer job, but also hopes to make a difference in the lives of the residents of a pretty dismal nursing home.
Ms. Loiselle's descriptions are grainy, gritty, a little like an 8 mm film, a raw pleasure to read. I would like to see more of Beth's dark humor, though, only glimpsed and not fully developed in this excerpt. I found myself wanting some relief from the grimness, and a slightly less solemn Beth. Would love to see more, in spite of that one quibble.

Ms. Loiselle's fiction is gripping in that it takes a seemingly mundane (even somewhat uncomfortable) setting and draws you into the world of nursing home care. In just this short segment of the book, one is afforded a glimpse at Ms. Loiselle's formidable prose - her sharp descriptions, her already complex characters, and her economical use of words to create a new world ready to be consumed by her readers. I look forward to learning about Beth and the rest of her summer.

Wanting to earn money for college while she's helping people, Beth accepts a job at Liberty Home. She really didn't think the job would be that hard after having a Freshman year at Brown, one of the nation's most challenging schools.

"If the new girl shows up..." Beth overheard as she walked into Liberty Home for the first time after her training to become a Certified Nurse's Aide. She vowed she'd finish the summer, but she didn't know what she was getting into even if the training itself was rough.

There are hints here of racial tension. Well, and working class working girl versus privileged college kid who's living at home just making money for next semester. Coming of age in an old folks home is clearly not going to be easy. People only pretend to care about old folks because it sounds good--most just want to avoid the subject.

The excerpt is interesting and well-written. For the most part, it just needs a final read and a bit of polish before it's submitted. I think this is going to be a tough, but memorable read for those who choose to finish the book. I wish the author every success on this endeavor.

'Tis the most complete alternative processes manual of all times. More beautiful color photograph illustrations than you could think to shake a stick at. To get the most alternative use of this book, one might stitch the pages together to wear as clothes, and alternatively processize to one's heart's content.

This book is for artists. It is worth every cent. Remember, you get what you pay for. It contains the details, the history, the examples and the intellect. Very well put together and a pleasure to read. If you are serious about learning "alternative" photographic processes, this is the book.

Every learning photographer must have this book. More to photography than photoshop and digital and this book will open up you photographic world.

You may not believe it, but this book is actually good bedtime reading for any photographer. Christopher presents the history of each process backed up with examples both historical and contemporary. His sense of humor is evident in much of the writing. If you've never tried any of these processes, step by step instructions are given as well as helpful tips to ensure success and sources for product. More about digital technology is incorporated in this edition- yes it is ok to make digital negatives to use with an old process!

This book is one of the finest reference books I seen. I open it up on an almost daily basis and find new things to consider. I have been in photography for over 40 years and am very impressed. The world of alternative photography is a very exciting one and one that continues to grow. I only wish I could take his classes. My goal was to expand my understanding of the alternative photographic processes. I will certainly use it as a source of information if I do a 5th edition of my book "Framing Photography" which is also carried on Amazon.com. My hat is off to the author Christopher James.

A novel that's instantly engaging. A classic situation - fantastic perhaps but, all conditions prevailing, nonetheless frighteningly believable, and we can easily identify with the heroine's nightmare of disbelief and helplessness.Narrative is intriguing and compelling, with pacy action,sharp, economical dialogue, and indicators of subsequent interlocking plotlines.I'm convinced ensuing chapters will continue to feed the reader's eagerness to discover Marielle's eventual fate.

I was so involved in the story I forgot I was actually reading a text. The writing is clear and moves at a good pace, establishing sympathy and intrigue about the lead character. I would be fascinated to know what happens to her and confident that the author will carry the book with considerable elan, right to the final page.

great read. on the edge of my seat from the begining. cant wait to read the whole book.very soon i hope

As i got to the end of the extract, i found myself on the edge of my seat, fists clenched, desparately wanting to find out more!!
The author's style takes the reader on Marielle's journey via all her emotions and thoughts. This for me is very hard to find in a book, so after this 'taster', i definitely want to read the rest, and wouldn't hesitate in buying a copy!

The author just doesn't let up, ratcheting up the tension paragraph by paragraph until the reader on the rack screams for release. Not only readable, but buyable. This novel will be the talking point of many conversations in the months to come and ensure its success.
Terse, compact writing fills the movieolas of the mind with images to rival top-flight film directors.

After reading Russell Rowland's first two wonderfully written novels, I am extremely anxious to have Dig published so I can purchase a number of them to give to friends, as I did the other two---In Open Spaces & Watershed Years. Seldom does a writer pull the reader in so completely that you can't put the book down, & you mourn when you finish & have to leave the characters & not know what is next!!! Looking forward to Dig soon.

In this excerpt from Russell Rowland's _Dig_, Rowland's protagonist Lee Hurley unearths bits of his past--his guilt at his part in his now three-legged dog Dave's injury and other less visible wounds he has caused his family, including sister Joanie, her husband Peter, and their two sons. In this novel dealing with recovery from addiction, Lee and readers will realize that Lee Hurley is running from his past but is carrying it all with him. I look forward to a triumphant recovery when we are treated to the entire novel.

Dig is gritty reality. Being a romanticist and escapist, I found myself hurting almost too much for these people. It is easy to feel Joannie's love for her brother, that it hurts her to see him committing slow suicide. Peter is a likeable fellow with a humble innocence that conceals deep-rooted common sense. Okay, he does leave common sense at home when he and Lee visit the bar but he is wise enough not to jump into the fisticuffs.

If the rest of the book had been there, I'd have climbed a fence to read it. I want to know what tragedy damaged Lee and if he can overcome it.

The 2 paragraphs before Mr. Rowland got "cut off in his prime" as the Brits say painted an entirely different picture of Lee, and made you believe that, despite the obstacles--booze and his new enemy--he would triumph and build that cabin. Deeply rooted in the Montana soil, hopefully he will triumph over self flagellation in a bottle.

From Chaucer's Wife of Bath to Ken Kesey's Bromden, authors have used unreliable narrators to create drama and tension. Russell Rowland follows suit with Lee Hurley, an alcoholic with a fogged past. From the first page Lee seems perplexed at how life is going for him. He says to his best pal Charlie, "I thought we had talked about it. I thought you were okay with it." Apparently thought wrong for Charlie hightails it before Lee's story has a chance to start and the reader is left wondering what it is that has caused such a rift. The mystery intensifies as Lee remembers his father as the corpse his father's girlfriend woke up next to. When Lee arrives at his sister Joanie's he realizes "Something must have happened (the last time he was there) but I don't remember a thing." His sister doesn't clarify. When Lee asks what it was she replies only, "...it wasn't horrible." By the time the reader reaches the end of the excerpt of Dig, we have a long list of questions, and a sense that Lee has a long road ahead of him to not only make things right, but to make it through at all. With a house to build, family, and his three-legged dog Dave, he just might make it.

Like watching from a safe distance a tornado whipping across the high plains, Russell Rowland's capacity as a storyteller to pull from the earth, the great spirits and confounded men are awe inspiring in their power, and decisive in their attack.

From out of the green clouds and collision of hot and cold air, I immediately champion Lee, a sympathetic perpetrator of some unspeakable act. A soul suffering what might be slighted as "Type II" alcoholism, he seems too bright and too used to pain to ever really hit rock bottom.

My empathy meter starts clanging as his cavernous heart grows more hollow. After all - everyone knows it's more socially redeeming to drink your problems under than to get over them in therapy, right?

The story's characters easily involve themselves with the protagonist; all of those whom will probably, eventually get their hearts broken; all of those whom enable Lee and all who step up to the plate to pound the living snot out of him.

Dialogue, foreshadowing and the subtleties of relationships are where Rowland's genius reveals itself.

There is nothing a self-loathing bully craves more than a self-loathing optimist. There is nothing more intimate than the unspoken between siblings. There is nothing more crushing than one's own delicate, snide intelligence pricking in the night, "You know your brains cannot make you better."

Immersing yourself in Rowland's descriptions are worth the price of admission; who else can tell you so much about a character by describing their hair? But what may prove to be truly mystical in this novel is showing the reader the transformative power that an unforgiving terra firma can have on the spirit.

I give the short four stars only because I crave a bit more poetry in the starker, straightforward lines. Maybe that happens as the house brings good and evil to blows.

This book has provided me with better insight to shooting seniors and or teens. I feel confident about what I learned in Patrick's book and hope it shows in my photography.

This book overall is very good, but it has two strong points. The marketing ideas are certainly worth the cover price. Lots of fresh ideas to get more seniors through the door.

The second strong point is the creative sets and backgrounds. Very nicely presented and illustrated. I found it interesting the author builds many of his own sets so that they are truly unique.

This book will give you a lot of good ideas for senior photos. Definately worth ordering

If you are trying to get into Senior Photography, or if you are trying to expand your Senior clientale then this book is for you.

This book walks you through everything you need to know for Seniors. How to photograph them, composition,& marketing.

Another great book by Patrick Rice!!! A must have for all professional photographers.

A very good book and worth purchasing. It is recommended for anyone that is starting out in the business and needs some direction. I have gotten some very good ideas from the book. I wish it had a little more explanation on how to achieve some of the effects in the pictures that are in the book. However that is why I am looking for a good photoshop book. There is a lot of good info in the book.

This book isn't for new filmmakers or independent filmmaker. basically you will not need this book ever to make your future because we are living the new digital era of the film making unless you are academic student and your professor asked you to acquire it then you have to.

You can buy a book speaks about specific thing you desire. you can find thousands of books here better than this. in my opinion this book is passed history not coming future, complicated and confusing.

The new digital age will bring soon new equipments like combining 2 or more equipments into one only. simply, the book is boring.

Buy any other book like DV Filmmaking for Ian Aronson. you can support yourself by other specific and simple book but not this 600+ pages (hands book).

great book if you plan on going into the film industry. i would recommend this book.

The Filmmaker's Handbook is exquisitely detailed in it's delivery of filmmaking knowledge and know-how. It cover's everything from film to video and from the film industry to the television industry, delivering updated information that will prepare even the most amateur videographer for the professional industry. However, it would be a good idea to start with some basics before tackling this book because it IS quite detailed and technical in it's delivery. Overall though, it is an excellent resource! Bravo!!!

I bought this book few months back in order to study the film making process. The book has details for practically everything and best for beginners as well as professionals. however since the version dates 5 years old so I'd suggest anybody interested in learning the aspects to consider this book as a base and then also subscribe to a magazine as you'll have a know how of latest stuff happening in the movie making technology. something like movie maker magazine. anyway the book still deserve 5 stars for its content.

This is a required text book, and is used in many colleges. It is a great book and it is so good to read that studying is not a chore