English Books

Perhaps one of Oklahoma's better-kept secrets is the work done by the University of Oklahoma Press. To be sure there are some readers that know about the quality works published by the Press such as Lige Langston: Sweet Iron; The Dismissal of Miss Ruth Brown; and The Western Range Revisited, to name but a few. However, I am frequently surprised at the number of readers that are not aware of the caliber of the offerings by OU Press. Thus, I was anxious to read this just released paperback novel, which is volume 30 in the highly acclaimed American Indian Literature and Critical Studies Series. I was not disappointed. The novel, written by a Professor of English Language and Literature at the University of New Mexico who is of Choctaw-Cherokee-Irish descent, will draw you in from the first page and keep you reading to the very end of the 296 pages. It is about Jacob Nashoba who was born in Mississippi, came of age in Vietnam, and settled in an Apache village on a reservation in the Black Mountains of eastern Arizona. He finds a job as a game and fish ranger for the Tribe and tries to adjust to a life of semi-isolation and "adjustment." It's not easy. The cast of characters he must deal with include his estranged wife, corrupt tribal officials, a resident anthropologist that is, well, different, and various and sundry sellers of "vision quests" to tourists and former Hollywood extras that I swear I have seen in old John Wayne movies. Add to this mix a right-wing militia group secretly, to some, training on Indian land and you have the makings for a first rate story. Dark River has it's light side but be aware that this is a complex, subtle, sometimes violent story that deals with the aftermath of Vietnam on certain individuals(not just Nashoba!) and the contemporary problems associated with Native Americans and their identity. It is not a novel to be taken lightly. I had to go back and re-read parts of some chapters and think about the message of this book a number of times. I would do it again. It's that good. OU Press is to be commended for making this book available to a wide audience at a reasonable price. They do good work.

In DARK RIVER, Owens creates memorable characters (one of his strenths, I think) and tells a compelling story with laugh-out-loud humor. Consider one of the minor characters: the resident anthropologist Avrum Goldberg, who wears a traditonal breechcloth and Apache leggings and moccasins. He shares traditonal lore with tourists, who mistake him for an Apache and call him Chief Gold Bird, a title he denies without success. Goldberg's dream is for the Apaches to turn the reservation into a tribal theme park to attract more tourists and generate income, a scheme that does not gain favor with the Apaches, who are reluctant to give up their cars, televisions, and other twentieth-century technologies. This is by no means the central focus of the novel, but Owens skillfully weaves his imaginative subplots and characters into the central story, his concern about what is happening on a river in the reservation where he goes to flyfish.

I think this is Owens's best novel yet. Furthermore, it is accessible to any reader--one doesn't need to be familiar with his other work or knowlegable about American Indian literature to read it. Actually this is true for THE SHARPEST SIGHT (1992), which my then 85-year-old mother compared to Norman McLean's "A River Runs Through It." She would read and reread passages from each.

I understand DARK RIVER is a finalist for the Best Novel of the West from the Western Writers of America, and I wouldn't be surprised if he wins. He has received several awards for his earlier works.

Dark River, with its main character Jake Nashoba, starts off like the other excellent novels of Louis Owens. The story has great quirky characters, encounters and conflict between native and Anglo culture, different native cultures, and traditional and modern native culture, plus a little Native American magic and mysticism. But with the turn of every page, Dark River turns increasingly surreal. The excitement of the novel grows as the characters all head for the dark river of the title. Dreams and reality mix until it's hard to know where one ends and the other begins. This is one of Louis Owens' best novels and I enjoyed reading it immensely, ranking it up with my personal favorite, Bone Game. My one regret is that Louis Owens' life ended too early and he isn't around to give us any other stories to read.

This is one very nice novel, and Owens has a sharp eye for character development. I heard him read from this book a couple of years ago--and must say the laughter of the audience was echoed as I read it for myself. Let's hope this talented author keep producing these gems.

Tongue firmly embedded in cheek, Owens seems to take on everything in this novel, including his own previous novels. And nothing is as it would appear. Absolutely nothing. It's wonderful!

Owens is a true original, yet his stories are as old as time. His characters come to life and take charge of the story. For the academically minded, this would be an interesting novel to use when discussing the Foucault/Barthes debate concerning role of the author in the text.

I love this book. I would not call myself a Christian, but that doesn't mean I don't get so much out of this wonderful book. Pray and connect with God - this helps me to start the day without food on the brain; with love and empowerment on my mind instead.

I liked this book. Has a prayer for everyday. Helps you on the journey of your "diet"

This is an uplifting read. I read it each morning and try to think of what I have read throughout the day. I am glad guilt was left out.
I did not give 5 stars because the spacing on the prayers is distracting.

I bought this for myself. I only have 10 lbs to lose, but I figure I need all the help I can get. This is an awesome book. It has a lesson and a prayer for 100 days. I use it in my morning devotions (while I am eating breakfast...haha) I have since bought a copy for all 4 ladies in my Bible Study to go along with Faithfully Fit (which I bought for all of them also). Even if you are not on a diet it gives you a great way to look at 'God's food' and our consumption of it. Buy it! You'll love it!

I have owned this book for a few years now, pull it out on occasion to use as a daily read. I recently gave a copy to my step-daughter, and she loves it too.

It describe all aspects about digital crimes using a clear language. It's very good for neubies.

If you are new to this world this is where you should begin. Digital Evidence contains all the knowledge one could amass by obtaining PHD in computing. Especially when you don't have time for a Diploma. I have bought 5 books pertain to digital crime from USA and UK. But this is the one and only book I am recommending to any one in any continent who want to learn or new to this arena. All the other books in this field for Attorneys or with similar requirements are some what academic and may be boring. The CD-ROM accompanying the book gives you much needed hands on training, otherwise which will cost you at least US $ 4000, if you are to go to a training centre to do the same.

Sometimes, defense attorneys have it easy: one slip-up by the prosecution and evidence is thrown out. Knowing that, law enforcement goes to great lengths to ensure that evidence is appropriately collected and protected. That works well in the physical world, where law enforcement has many generations' worth of experience. But in the modern world of computers and digital networks, where the simple act of rebooting a computer is enough to wipe out large amounts of evidence, law enforcement clearly needs thorough guidance.

Such a resource is here: Digital Evidence and Computer Crime, an excellent book that details the elements of digital crime. Author Eoghan Casey does a superb job of applying forensic science to computers. The information presented here is critical to a diverse audience: law enforcement, attorneys, forensic scientists, and systems administrators, for instance.

While cybercrime law is in some ways similar to other aspects of criminal law, it nonetheless has its own language and categories. For instance, jurisdiction is a key element in both the physical and digital realms, but it is a much trickier concept in the latter. Casey develops this topic and many more. Those new to computers and networks need not worry: the book begins with an explanation of how they function. With the basics out of the way, Casey details how computers can be used in crime and how the evidence created from these activities can be used for later analysis....The accompanying CD-ROM contains simulated cases that integrate many of the topics covered in the text. In all, the book and CD are an excellent introduction to an increasingly important area of law enforcement.

This is an excellent book from a real expert.

Everyone and their brother are writing books about computer security and digital forensics.

The difference here is that Eoghan Casey knows what he is talking about.

Excellent book!

This text was used for the digital evidence and computer crime class that I just completed. The book is clear and easy to understand. It goes into detail only when needed. I was concerned that this information would quickly become out of date, but the ideas presented are current and provide a solid background for understanding any newer technologies that come down the road. I usually sell my books after the semester ends, but I have decided to keep this one.

This is some real stuff to have friends that are still down even though somethings have happend. I'm wailting on the next part to arrive in the mail. Keep doing what you love.

This book was awesome. I read this book in a couple days just like all of your other books. I am truly a big fan of yours. I like the way that you keep me in suspense and then you let everything unfold in a great manner. I love the characters in your books. They all seem like real people instead of charcters in a book. When discussing this book at work with my co-worker people think that we are talking about real people. Keep up the good work!!!

P.S. - Can you try and write like 3-4 books a year???

Drug Related will have U biting your nails and pulling your hair. I am very impressed with Mr. Glenn's writing abilities. He will have U staying up late nights trying to figure out what will happen next. His characters are all unique and very complex, which keeps U wanting more. Make sure U check out MOB..

you will find a picture of me!!!! That's right Mr. Glenn I am now a boni-fide fan of yours... I once thought Roy Glenn was just another street writer (not that there's anything wrong with that) but oh... he is so much more.... the suspense, the intrique... the mystery ...the satisfaction ...the AH-HA moment for me!!!

Mr. Glenn you brought it....

When Gabrielle Childers hires Nick Simmons a resourceful, street-smart, former Army specialist turned Private Invetigator to find her missing scientist brother, Simmmons thinks it's just another missing persons' case, but soon we're taken on a fast ride of intrique and mystery. This story is deep... and you've got to pay attention.

Sure, Nick rarely meets a woman he isn't attracted to, but he's a man's man and I like that... We quickly learn nothing is as it appears with Mrs. Childers as far as her missing brother or her secretive drug lord husband Chilly are concerned, they're all caught up in a scheme to develop synthetic crack turned deadly... but fear not... Nick Simmons is on the case... and I was with him all the way!!!!!

I really enjoyed Simmons' character-he seemed so real.. you know the type, rough around the edges, but good with the ladies.. he's carrying his own burden of betrayal but he's willing to make ammends for walking out on his buddy Black at a crucial time. (who doesn't love a man who's not afraid to show his vulnerability)

I also enjoyed the way Mr. Glenn kept me guessing... Just when I thought Nick and I had it figured out... Mr. Glenn tossed another twist.. without giving anything away, I can just say Nick is telling this story to a woman who has a history with Nick and his buddies... I enjoyed the story, the pacing, the characters-they were all so real-the plot, thick and deep, well thought out.

I'm hungry for more...

This was my first Roy Glenn story, but you can better believe it will not be the last! I'm about to go back and read Is it a Crime and Mob... I can not wait for Payback and anything else Glenn has in store for his fans.. know that I'll be in line come Feb... oh, wait-already pre-ordered mine! I suggest you do the same...

And I know he won't dissapoint!

I enjoyed Drug Related, it makes me want to go back and read other books by Roy Glenn.

Nick Simmons tells the story of his arrest with his attorney Wanda after he's released from jail-the story is told in a dated journal format, which I liked.

The format did require me to pay attention to the story which wasn't a task because I read the book in two days (only b/c I had to work it took so long)

Nick is a former Army specialist who is hired by Gabrielle Childers, the wife of drug dealer Chilly... Gabrielle wants Nick to locate her missing chemist brother, Jake, she believes her husband is involved in his disappearance.

Nick soon discovers Jake and Chilly were working on some kind of synthetic form of crack... without giving the story away.. a bunch of twists and turns and murders later, we discover the mystery behind this street saga.

I liked that the story basically sets the stage for the sequel: Payback... so much so that I've already pre ordered mine.


~*~ Roy Glenn, add me to your growing list of fans ... I want more!!! ~*~

I bought this book when it was first published because I had worked with the author. I expected to find insights but I didn't expect that it would change my life, after all an expert MUST be from at least 50 miles away and I knew the author. Now years after it was published I have realized I need to read it again. Things the book taught me have stuck with me during my changing life and my relationships with my family, and how I view myself as a wife, mother, daughter, co-worker and friend. Since I gave my copy away to someone I knew needed the book, I am coming back home so to speak to read it again and examine myself and love in my Christian life and the love that surrounds us. I am going to recharge my batteries.

This book has totally changed my life. Jim is a great guy with an evident passion for God and the things He is about. Jim speaks straight to the heart though this book. It is a great, fast read but also carries a ton of depth. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone. But fair warning...don't be surprised if Embracing the Love of God completely changes your life!

I would highly recommend this book to anyone struggling to understand and receive God's love and forgiveness. This book is written especially for believers who are honest enough to admit they have a problem in this area. James Bryan Smith writes in a way that is simplistic and yet profound based on truths from the Word of God. He shares about his own struggles and how he came to a place of acceptance of God's grace and love for him. If you have a desire to be transformed by the love of God, take the time to read this book.

This book was sooo good...Please don't hesitate to get it! Take your time, and drink in the love of God that comes through the pages...
Nothing can separate us from the LOVE of GOD! That is what James Smith explains so well in this book. I just finished it, and know I will read it again. This book encouraged me and lifted me up. He definitely has a gift from God...to teach, help, and encourage...with references throughout, to the Word of God. I look forward to reading more of his books. As another reader said, this book will probably become a classic.

Embracing the Love of God is thought provoking and is,in my opinion, a potential "spiritual classic". Mr. Smith's extended essay is organized around three topics: Knowing God's Acceptance, Receiving God's Forgiveness and Experiencing God's Care. Read it, and keep it to re-read, when you need encouragement. Embracing the Love of God was a blessing to me, and I recommend you buy it.

I had never heard of Alison Larkin, until I read an outstanding review of her one woman show The English American, in the London Times last May. A week later I read another rave review in The Evening Standard. A few months later, while waiting for an airplane, I picked up Adoptive Families magazine, and read another outstanding review of the same show. As I'm an English man living in America, who always does things when he's told three times, I ordered her cd. I LOVED it. It is much more than a comedy. It is a soul-touching story, that had me laughing one minute and crying the next. I bought ten cd's to give to friends of mine Christmas gifts, and the responses I've had back have been wonderful. I want to know more about this extraordinary performer whose gift for cross-cultural observation is as great as her natural storytelling ability. I definitely want to see her perform live, but until I do, I play The English American whenever I'm feeling homesick, or need a good laugh - and cry. Jamie McKay

When I heard this c.d. was Nancy Ashe's number one adoption gift pick for 2001, on about.com, ahead of 'Secrets and Lies', I thought to myself 'okay, let's give it a go.' . And I was not disappointed.

Alison Larkin is, a fresh, brilliantly talented, razor-sharp comedienne, who just happens to be adopted. An original voice with a compelling tale to tell, Alison Larkin had me hooked from the first line. "Hallo" she says, in beautifully clipped British tones, "My name is Alison Larkin, and I come from Bald Mountain, Tennessee. I am, in fact, an illegitimate daughter of the American revolution."

Adopted at birth by British parents, this creative, appealing personality felt drawn to find her birth mother. Where is she? Bald Mountain, Tennessee. The diammetrical opposite of her adoptive mother, Alison's birth mother wants her daughter back. Loyal to the mother who raised her, but drawn to the American life, The English American is a heartwarming tale that, is, ultimately, a love letter to her adoptive parents. Into this tale, Ms Larkin weaves brilliant observations about her two countries. Belonging to both, yet belonging to neither, this brilliantly talented young woman looks at England and America from the point of view of one who is always destined to be an outsider.

When I heard this c.d. was Nancy Ashe's number one adoption gift pick for 2001, on about.com, ahead of 'Secrets and Lies', I thought to myself 'okay, let's give it a go.' . And I was not disappointed.

Alison Larkin is, a fresh, brilliantly talented, razor-sharp comedienne, who just happens to be adopted. An original voice with a compelling tale to tell, Alison Larkin had me hooked from the first line. "Hallo" she says, in beautifully clipped British tones, "My name is Alison Larkin, and I come from Bald Mountain, Tennessee. I am, in fact, an illegitimate daughter of the American revolution."

Adopted at birth by British parents, this creative, appealing personality felt drawn to find her birth mother. Where is she? Bald Mountain, Tennessee. The diammetrical opposite of her adoptive mother, Alison's birth mother wants her daughter back. Loyal to the mother who raised her, but drawn to the American life, The English American is a heartwarming tale that, is, ultimately, a love letter to her adoptive parents. Into this tale, Ms Larkin weaves brilliant observations about her two countries. Belonging to both, yet belonging to neither, this brilliantly talented young woman looks at England and America from the point of view of one who is always destined to be an outsider.

This wonderfully gifted English comedian's search for her American birth parents becomes an irresistible odyssey that succeeds in making her story one any listener will take to heart. Her quick changes--especially the many shifts from nurturing adoptive mother to over-the-top southern birth mother--are instantly, effortlessly convincing. All the reviews I've read as I write this one stress how funny and poignant this gifted performer is. She is certainly both, and often at the same time. Although no one can listen to this CD without gaining valuable insight into the feelings of adoptive mothers and their daughters, Larkin's comedy is universal.

Several of my closest friends are adopted, so I was instinctively drawn to this true tale of a witty, intelligent British woman's search for her American birth parents. That she and her fascinating pilgrimage are so damn funny proved an added bonus.

A keen cultural observer, intelligent and witty, Larkin takes her audience on an at times suspenseful, at other time hilarious, journey of discovery, seeking to find her birth parents while still honoring her adopted ones. Playing multiple roles, she moves effortlessly and convincingly from one character's voice to another's, from English lilt to redneck rasp (picture Bridget Jones stepping off the train in Hooterville) -- so much so that one forgets there's but one woman on stage.

Where some comedy CDs can vanish from memory after a listening or two, Larkin gives you out-loud laughs that linger, particularly since she treats you like family, holding little back. Her emotions become your emotions, and you're drawn to know more (like who this mystery father really is). If this is what you get when you cross American nature with British nurture, let's have more of it.

I loved reading this book, it gives an excellent historical overview of the development of gatorade and also gives some lessons learned from what they have done.

I was initially skeptical about a book on this sports drink but it turned out to be a very interesting purchase. It is amazing that one sports drink could control upwards of 85 percent of the market but Gatorade continues to deliver. From the Volkswagen advertising strategy to constant scientific improvement this is an excellent look at marketing and management. For those interested in sports marketing this is a must have for that library. The book is very well written and is the write balance of history, modern strategy and analysis to make this a book you will want to read again.

Rovell takes an inside look at how and the process of gatorade became a house hold name and the marketing it took to get there.

Hands down, this book was one of the best business success story books I have ever read. It was not as dull and boring as one may think, since the author incorporated a great deal of sports trivia into the plot. The history of the Gatorade start-up could not even be told if it was not for the sports behind it. I found the sections on the Sports Science Institute particularly interesting, which is where Gatorade tests the efficacy of their products on actual athletes. Also extremely interesting was the history behind the origination of the traditional "Gatorade dunk" witnessed at the end of every Super Bowl. If you want to know who and when this started, buy this book and read it. You will not be disappointed! It was extremely interesting!

This is such a powerful brand story that you may actually get thirsty reading it. Most people have no idea that sweating creates a huge drink market, but author Darren Rovell tells a well-researched, interesting and compelling story about how a group of Florida doctors concocted a simple drink to prevent dehydration. A combination of good science, luck and efficient marketing helped transform this initially unpalatable drink into the world's most popular sports elixir. Along the way, Gatorade marketers forged relationships with athletes, teams and superstars, and capitalized on the public's fascination with sports. The end result was a sales and marketing bonanza. We recommend this brand building saga to all marketers or to anyone interested in just how a drink built a bridge between sports and popular culture. Even if you don't break a sweat reading Rovell's marketing saga, prepare yourself to buy a bottle of Gatorade - you're going to want to satisfy your thirst to check this out.

The fourth of the Chronicles of Barsetshire, Framley Parsonage (1861) is a gentle novel filled with memorable characters, including many characters from The Warden, Barchester Towers, and Doctor Thorne (Barsetshire Novels). Mark Robarts, a young vicar with a devoted wife, has a comfortable situation at Framley Parsonage on the estate of the indomitable Lady Lufton. Her son, now Lord Lufton, had been a friend of Mark Robarts at school, and it was their friendship which resulted in Mark's position. Mark, though conscientious in his duties and grateful for his situation, is ambitious, however, anxious to expand his horizons beyond Framley.

Lady Lufton, who rules with an iron hand, is appalled when Mark decides to spend a weekend with a "fast" crowd, one which he believes can advance his career. Young and naïve, he becomes the dupe of an aristocratic "con-man," an MP named Nathaniel Sowerby, who persuades him to help him out of a financial jam by signing a note for five hundred pounds (more than half Robarts's yearly salary), allowing Sowerby to draw funds on Robarts's name. In the meantime, Robarts's sister Lucy arrives at Framley Parsonage upon the death of their father. Lucy, a sweet ingénue in mourning, soon comes to the attention of Lord Lufton, but Lady Lufton has many more "significant" matrimonial prospects in mind for her son. As Robarts's financial miseries become more pressing, and as Lucy's disappointment in love increases, the scene is set for a final showdown.

Numerous peripheral characters, many of them known to readers of the series, add to the drama of the primary action. The implacable dowager Lady Lufton, wishing to maintain her family's social position, pushes Griselda Grantly, daughter of Archdeacon Grantly, as the Duke's suitor. The competition between the (Archdeacon) Grantlys and the (Bishop) Proudies for suitors for their daughters adds great comic relief to the story, and the internecine manipulations among the clergy provide gentle satire in a novel which seems to be remarkably domestic in its focus.

Trollope provides a full picture of Victorian life, representing many aspects of society, and though his view of the clergy has in earlier novels been a bit jaded, he is sympathetic to many of its representatives in this novel, seeing them as humans, rather than as types. A sweet novel, part love story and part social commentary, Framley Parsonage is charming, memorable for its characters and picture of Victorian England. Mary Whipple

Anthony Trollope is a favorite author of mine, and this audio CD version of Framley Parsonage, read by Simon Vance, is well worth the investment. Deft use of language and a keen sense of human motivation, time, and place characterize all Trollope's writing, and those who enjoy period literature will be more than satisfied with this book. It starts slowly, as Trollope's stories often do, but once the background information is given, there are many interesting social, political, financial, and romantic plot developments to engage the reader and listener. Simon Vance's reading is superb, as always. The only caveat is that his rendering of the voice and character of young women is not as good as his pitch, tone, and inflection when narrating the voices of mature women and all men. His skill in rendering different dialects for different social classes and geographical regions is matchless. By all means, listen to this book.

The fourth of the Chronicles of Barsetshire, Framley Parsonage (1861) is a gentle novel filled with memorable characters, including many characters from The Warden, Barchester Towers, and Dr. Thorne. Mark Robarts, a young vicar with a devoted wife, has a comfortable situation at Framley Parsonage on the estate of the indomitable Lady Lufton. Her son, now Lord Lufton, had been a friend of Mark Robarts at school, and it was their friendship which resulted in Mark's position. Mark, though conscientious in his duties and grateful for his situation, is ambitious, however, anxious to expand his horizons beyond Framley.

Lady Lufton, who rules with an iron hand, is appalled when Mark decides to spend a weekend with a "fast" crowd, one which he believes can advance his career. Young and naïve, he becomes the dupe of an aristocratic "con-man," an MP named Nathaniel Sowerby, who persuades him to help him out of a financial jam by signing a note for five hundred pounds (more than half Robarts's yearly salary), allowing Sowerby to draw funds on Robarts's name. Though Sowerby swears he will resolve the problem within weeks, he needs an additional four hundred pounds when the note comes due.

In the meantime, Robarts's sister Lucy arrives at Framley Parsonage upon the death of their father. Lucy, a sweet ingénue in mourning, soon comes to the attention of Lord Lufton, who is fascinated by her naivete, a marked contrast with the women he has known to date. Though Lady Lufton has much more "significant" matrimonial prospects in mind for her son, the courtship begins, and though Lucy declines Lord Lufton's initial proposal, she remains in love with him. As Robarts's financial miseries become more pressing, and as Lucy's misery at having turned down Lord Lufton increases, the scene is set for a final showdown.

Numerous peripheral characters, many of them known to readers of the series, add to the drama of the primary action. The implacable dowager Lady Lufton, wishing to maintain her family's social position, staunchly opposes the Duke's relationship with Lucy Robarts, pushing Griselda Grantly, daughter of Archdeacon Grantly, as the Duke's suitor. The competition between the (Archdeacon) Grantlys and the (Bishop) Proudies for suitors for their daughters adds great comic relief to the story, and the internecine manipulations among the clergy provide gentle satire in a novel which seems to be remarkably domestic in its focus.

Trollope provides a full picture of Victorian life, representing many aspects of society, and though his view of the clergy has in earlier novels been a bit jaded, he is sympathetic to many of its representatives in this novel, seeing them as humans, rather than as types. A sweet novel, part love story and part social commentary, Framley Parsonage is charming, memorable for its characters and picture of Victorian England. n Mary Whipple

The Warden
Barchester Towers
Doctor Thorne (Barsetshire Novels)

In this novel we find one Mark Robarts, clergyman and parson of Framley. He is an ambitious young man desirous of rising in society. He is friends since childhood with Lord Lufton who makes an unfortunate introduction in the person of Sowerby who seduces poor Mark into signing his name to a debt which the parson cannot afford.

Mark Robarts's father passes away early on and his sister Lucy joins Mark and his wife at Framley Parsonage where Lord Lufton falls in love with her. Two more couples form and while I won't reveal how any of these relationships work out it wouldn't really matter if I did. Trollope's plots usually vary from bad to good but they are hardly ever of any importance anyway. What is important in a Trollope novel isn't what the plot is or how it concludes, it's how it works itself out and how Trollope paints his characters.

The characters in Framley Parsonage are a little whiter and blacker than those of the previous novels in the Barsetshire series. Sowerby is by far and away the blackest and Trollope was so effective in painting him black that towards the end he clumsily appeals directly to the reader and assures us Sowerby isn't really as bad a fellow as he seems.

Dr. Thorne and his niece Mary Gresham appear (from Doctor Thorne) as do the Grantlys and the Proudies (from Barchester Towers). Lucy Robarts is a fascinating woman even more headstrong here than Mary Gresham was in Doctor Thorne, but my favourite character in this novel is Lady Lufton. She opposes her son's desire to court and marry Lucy but does so politely and with consideration. At the same time, Lucy behaves in way Lady Lufton can only find irreproachable. So of course, not having anything with which to reproach Lucy, Lady Lufton has nothing with which to oppose her son's suit. And yet she does. How will this three-sided battle of wills, pitting Lord Lufton against his mother against Lucy against her suitor, resolve itself?

Well, that would be telling, wouldn't it? Let's just say that Lady Lufton has painted herself into a corner and let us leave it at that.

All in all, another fine example of Trollope's mastery of moral calculus.

Vincent Poirier, Dublin

Framley Parsonage is the fourth in Trollope's Barsetshire novels. Trollope (1815-1882) wrote the novel as a serial in the influential Cornhill magazine in 186-61, This novel along with the others in the series: The Warden; Dr. Thorne, The Small House at Allington, Barchester Towers and the Last Chronicle of Barset is a delightful return to mid-Victorian middle class society in a rural mythical county named Barsetshire.
In this long novel of over 600 pages there are several stories. The main character is the Rev. Mark Robarts, a
doctor's son, who at a young age becomes the vicar of Framley Parsonage. He has children and a kind wife Fanny. Mark has visions of grandeur in his head. He lends money to the unscrupulous Member of Parliament Mr. Sowerby. As a result of this fatuity Mark falls into debt. His friends rally to his aid.
Mark's sister Lucy Robarts is novel's heroine. She falls in love with the wealthy Lord Lufton who lives at Eustace Court with his formidable mother Lady Lufton. Lady Lufton wants her son Ludovic to wed Griselda Grantley the statuesque but dull as dishwater and cold as a cucumber daughter of Archdeacon Grantley. Lufton is torn between these two women. We see Lady Lufton overcome her prejudice against Lucy. Lucy is a kind girl who minister to the family of the poor clergyman Josiah Crawley. She wins over the heart of Lady Lufton and the reader.
Secondary plots concern the midlife romance of Miss Dunstable and good Doctor Thorne. Olivia Proudie daughter of the fussy busybody and scold Mrs. Proudie and the uxorious Bishop Proudie weds a clergyman Mr. Tickler who is a widower. Griselda Grantley is courted by the stupid Lord Dumbello who possesses a name and title to the Hartletop lands and fortune. Will she win Lord Lufton or choose Dumbello?
All's well that ends well in this classic Trollopian tale. Long before Jan Karon, Anthony Trollope wrote humorous, moving and plot driven tales of the lives of the clergy dealing with real life problems, romance and challenges. In my opinion, an Anthony Trollope novel is a good way to spend a quiet evening before the fireplace. Enjoy this wonderful author and the world he created.

I bought this book because I am a huge fan of Mr. Nylund's Halo books, and a huge fan of his altogether. And boy am I glad that I bought it.

I would say that most people generally consider science fiction and fantasy to be "low" art. Most people think that those genres went out of style after H.G. Wells and Jules Verne and Tolkien and C.S. Lewis bit the dust. Generally I would agree with this. I mean, really, go to your local bookstore and walk in the sci-fi/fantasy section. Most of what you see are derivative crappy paperbacks with stitched together plots and characters so flimsy that my most shallow breath could knock them over so they couldn't get back up.

Mr. Nylund, I would say, is a breath of fresh air. Every single one of his novels is filled to the brim with fantastically developed characters, innovative and original conceptions of technology, fantastic action sequences, a great plot, and wonderfully written and even addictive prose. I truly think he is one of the greatest writers alive today, and his science fiction and fantasy works are, I think, comparable to some of the best out there. They are truly fantastic novels in the midst of a sea of crappy schlock, the stuff that critics and reviewers tend only to see when they look at the genres.

This novel, which follows Germain, an assassin with multiple personalities inside his head, is absolutely amazing. The story, which I would say is one of the most original I have read in years, is fantastically written, with vivid and fascinating characters, interesting spatial and technological concepts, and fast paced action that is really truly a joy to read. I could honestly go on practically forever, but right now I'll just say that if you are at all a fan of Mr. Nylund's other books than you need to read this one. It is amazing and you most definitely will not be disappointed.

I thought A Game of Universe was a great book, and I'm certain my wife hated it. Every free moment I had I had my nose in the book. The author does a great job merging fantasy and science fiction. The two genres are blended wonderfully in this work, and it is easy to envision the world(s) in the novel. The action in the book was continuous, which is why it was so hard to put down. The last few pages where you get to find out about the great battle between good and evil and a third player wrap the book up splendedly. I highly recommend this book, but only pick it up if you have time to read it continuously!

rich blend of Science Fiction and fantasy. This excellent and entertaining novel never falls into the trap of taking itself too seriously. Here are all the elements of a classic quest story, riches beyond our dreams of avarice, beautiful maidens to be rescued, vile villains to be dispatched (or more likely run away from) and technical wonders galore! The hero Germain is not all powerful, he has numerous flaws and a terrible childhood holding him back. He has to overcome all this to seek one of the most powerful artefacts known to our civilisation, the Holy Grail. Realistically Germain has no chance of achieving his goal but remember 'the journey IS the destination' and Germain's journey is a worthy one. This overlooked gem is good stuff and makes me want to read other books by the author. Its a lot more entertaining than recent Grail Quest novels!

A Game of Universe is the first work of Nylund's I've ever read. Having picked it up in FLorida on a whim several years ago, I've used my copy so much that it's literally worn out! This is the only book I've given out to several of my friends and co-workers (even my mother!) and every single one of them have loved it. All of us are now trying to hunt down a copy in better condition than mine!

Germain is a complex and hilarious character, with very real-to-life thoughts and actions. His various "personas" and his innner struggles have thrilled everyone I've known who has read this amazing work. The romance between Virgina and Germain was just enough to please the girl in me but not overly so so that I wanted to strangle them both. Virgina was a lovable female lead, easily identifable to and a strong female. Lilian, however, was not my favorite character at all and was rather grating on the nerves. Stebos was an amazing concept and Quilp was annoying, but quite brilliant. The theories introduced were interesting but not overly confusing. All of Germain's personas made the story quirky and adoringly eccentric.

This sotry has a bit of everything in it, satisfying even the pickiest reader. Romance, action, history, adventure, science fiction, betrayal, psychology, even gambling! This futuristic Grail adventure (featuring an ultimate but unseen battle between Heaven and Hell) is satsfying down to the very last sentence!

Nylund's writing is addictive, yet not at all hard to follow. However, the details involved are sparkling! I HIGHLY recommend this work, as it is an easy, interesting read and worth every cent you spend. Eric S. Nylund's A Game of Universe makes everyone want to go on their own personal quest for the Grail and be involved in the battle between Heaven and Hell. It's a shame it's out of print!

This book was the first I read by Eric Nylund, and it had me searching all of the used book stores for more. I was enthralled from page one, and never put it down. I'm frankly not that much into sci-fi any more, but this was a rare find and a fun read.

If you like military SciFi then Dan Abnett is a good choice. Darker than John Ringo or David Weber, his books are intriguing, riviting, and exciting. I would recomend them to anyone who enjoys the military SciFi genre.

Gaunt's Ghosts is the tale of the Imperial Guard from the viewpoint of the Imperial Guard. Dan Abnett throws the reader into the fray immediately, with no remorse or apologies, just the way war really is.

To get the experience of 40K in the thick of front line combat, look no further!

This is the first in the series but I read it second. It was backwards, but it was a great read. You learn were the Ghosts come from, how Gaunt got them, etc. It is a great set of books about people you will care about. Hell, I had a lump in my throat more than once after an especially emotional turn of events.

A collection of the first books in the Gaunt's Ghost's series, it is great book for any Warhammer 40K fan. It is also a great book for anyone who has an interest in the series but hasn't picked the right book out yet.

FIRST AND ONLY
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The first book in the Ghost's series, it tells the story of the Ghost's fight against an army of heretical troops. But along with the enemy facing them across the trenches, the Ghost's face an even greater threat: an ignorant military leader who is more than willing to throw troops to the meat grinder that is this war.

GHOSTMAKER
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A sequel-prequel-connector story, Ghostmaker works to tie the reader in to the story of the Ghost's current position. Fighting on a forest world against a dug in enemy, some Ghosts remember life before this fight. A collection of short fights and battles, along with some non combat situations, really flesh out who the Ghosts are. Whether they're fighting in city streets, dropping into Normandy-like beach fights, or just gambling with a group of rowdy soldiers, the Ghost's really start to grow on you.

NECROPOLIS
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Necropolis is the first of what I call "epic" fights in the Ghost's series. The Ghosts have been sent to stop a civil war between two giant industrial cities. The city is easy to defend, but treachery and back stabbing among bring down its shields and walls. The Ghost's fight enemies on all sides, and when the hour is dark, heroes will rise, and the fate of the city will be decided.

I started this book before being a fan of Warhammer 40K or the Black Library and it was still interesting and fun to read. You don't have to be a 40K expert to enjoy the story and the interesting characters. Dan Abnett is also great at keeping a series interesting and different by keeping the same characters and ideas, but writing with very different plots and styles. One thing I hate in a series is when it seems like the author follows a specific plot outline with every book and just adds new places and storys. The Dan Abnett books do not do this, and this keeps the books very interesting.
The characters are the best part of the books, they are not archetype characters that are either purely good or completely evil. The characters have depths and shades of gray.
Overall I would say this book is a great read, and I highly reccomend the other works by Dan Abnett.