Short Stories Books

With the disappointment of the lost books series(which are still good compared to alot of the crap out there) I was afraid this book would just as much of a let down. But after reading all the positive reviews I decided this one may be better. And yes it is better than the lost books, but not better than many of Ted Dekker's previous works (namely the Circle Trilogy, Showdown, Thr3e, Skin). While this is still a good book and worthy of a read, Ted Dekker is losing a bit of his magic. I can't quite seem to pinpoint what it is. Maybe the formula of having a psycho killer that no one can catch is getting old. Or maybe the fact half of the killers seems to have been abused at childhood is getting old too.

Another complaint is sometimes using words like "pig" and "sow" instead of cuss words sometimes just does not fit the tenseness of the situation. Like I saw someone comment before, he needs to let his characters act like real people. Especially when you have a serial killer talking, do you think that he is worried if offensive language is coming out of his mouth? So sometimes this takes away from the seriousness of the situation. Though I do see why Dekker chooses this as he is marketing toward a Christian audience.

The complaints aside though, this is still a good book (though not a masterpiece), even it is a little of the same. Its still Dekker, it still has some twists, and it still keeps you turning the pages. Though maybe Dekker should begin to branch out and try something new next time?

This story is compelling, gripping, fascinating and amazing. It's clear to me that the author spent countless hours on research. I was at the hospital the other day and recommended it to a doctor who saw me reading it. I told him it had a gross autopsy scene with plenty of details and a mysterious illness they were trying to understand. I think he wrote the title down. Anyway, the natural realm and the supernatural converge in this impressive tale about good and evil. Who better to tell this frightening story than Ted Dekker?

Dekker has an impressive imagination, is incredibly intelligent, and writes in terrifying detail. I think this is the scariest Christian fiction story I've ever read. But it's not mere horror for entertainment's sake. There is a pretty profound message in this story that I believe is well worth reading. I don't recommend reading it at night, though. It would give you creepy dreams and you'd be digging in your drawer for duct tape. Trust me on that one. Read the book and you'll see why. However, if the power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you (Romans 8:11) you have nothing to fear by reading this story. Some of the theology is "iffy," but hey, this is fiction! This page turner comes highly recommended. Enjoy!

Ted Dekker is known for writing riveting, suspenseful novels and Adam is perhaps his best yet. Dekker as of late, has been on a streak of serial killers and Adam is no different.
Daniel Clark is a FBI behavioral psychologist who has been tracking the serial killer known as Eve. When he finally sees Eve face to face, Daniel is shot and dies. But then 20 minutes later is resuscitated. Daniel knows he's seen the killer's face, but the trauma of dying has obscured the memory and left him with panic attacks. Daniel becomes obsessed with finding Eve.
Adam is not really about Daniel, although most of it is told from his perspective and he is a likable character, Adam is all about the battle between good and evil, the light and the darkness. Dekker portrays that battle in such a realistic way that he had one of his editors sleeping with the lights on(words straight from Dekker).
Throughout the book there are about nine magazine articles that tell us of Eve's back story and how he became a serial killer. These articles were crucial to the plot development. With the help of these Eve has become yet another great villain created by Dekker.
Adam is an exciting ride from the beginning to the chaotic climax. It's a ride that you'll want to take again and again.

Okay.. I have read every single Ted Dekker novel written. And I have to say that this is one of his very best. It's a break from all of the Circle/Showdown things he's been writing for awhile now, and he is still in great form for the thriller. I wanted to know what was going to happen throughout the whole book. The book is about a serial killer, the man chasing him, and the women that are also obsessed with the case. It has everything you need-- death, twists, character development... basically, I'm saying... read this!

Ted Dekker is my favorite author, and once again he has given me a book that has given me ours of entertainment and some things to think about in life and faith.

In this book, you follow the latest and most career intensive case of an FBI criminal profiler who also, through his studies has come to view religion as one of the driving forces of evil in society (and his serial killers motive), as opposed to an "evil force" itself existing.

Dekker provides us with his normal fast-paced, suspensful story, some excellent research and a plot with some good twists but not so surprising turns and anyone who loves a good mystery or story will read this book quickly and eagerly.

However, having said this, and understand I am one of Dekker's greatest fans, my applauding of the book ends here. Large, crucial and incredibly interesting themes of good/evil, especially evil's reality and the supernatural are addressed in this modern-day thriller. However, Dekker says in an interview about the book that his hope through painting a more real picture of the darkness is to draw people to the light. My biggest disappointment with this book is that in the end, little time or attention or detail for that matter is given to how the Light overcomes the very real darkness. So much time is spent exploring the possibility and then reality of the evil side of the supernatural that you are left to wonder how the light defeated the darkness. Sure you hear the name "Jesus", and Dekker is phenomenal at not being preachy, but when I read the last word of the last chapter, my biggest question was "What? How the...that's it?"

A fast-paced mystery where the conclusion is still a step beyond predictability, but I'm afraid that in my opinion, even though the Light is the victor in the end, the book leaves you wondering, "if the Dark is really so real and powerful, how in the world did the Light overcome it in this story? And if Lights victory is so unplausible at the end of this work of fiction, why would I ever hope in its power in reality?"

Evil is real and powerful, but the Light shatters darkness! However, in this book, you'll find that the light really just kind of wears it down and chases it away to fight another day...

Keep writing Dekker! You are amazing as are your works...but I must responsibly rate this book lower than your others...may your fans forgive me, and remember too that I am a fan.

This is the final volume in the "Ages of Middle-Earth" series and it was actually the first written. Although published in two volumes The Book Of Lost Tales was originally written as one. Tolkien expands in this second volume the stories of Middle-Earth as they unfold during the first four ages. For years Tolkien had been a scholar of mythology and he used his studies to transform ancient Earth mythology into the fantasy we know today. So if you love fantasy, whether you are a Tolkien reader or not, you will love this remarkable first attempt at reshaping modern fantasy.

The Book of Lost Tales 2 is a fantastic continuation to the first, taking place right where it left off this book goes in deeper than the first. The Book of Lost Tales includes 6 tales that where apart of the first but explains it with greater detail. This book was edited by Christopher Tolkien, the author's(J.R.R. Tolkien) son. All of the six stories include many notes that help you with the story, and 4 of them include a commentary that Christopher Tolkien wrote. I found the commentary and notes to be very helpful and enjoyable although he refers a lot to The Simarillion so one who has not read that might not understand some of it, and infact the stories that are in The Book of Lost Tales 2 are briefly in The Simarillion, which is also a very wonderful book. These books can be at sometimes a little difficult to read given the ammount of detail and information that they give you, sometimes it is hard to organize all of it but as you read on more things fall into place.

I highly recommend this book, although suggest reading The Simarllion before hand, J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy world is quite enjoyable and his writings are full of detail. I also found the appendix and index of words quite useful and very nice to have, it tells you where all the names come from and have referances to where you can find them in this book and others. If you have read Lord of The Rings then you will find referances that are from this book and also The Simarillion that you did not get before.

Overall I thought this book was very enjoyable, although some what tedious at some points, and I recommend it to all fantasy and Lord of The Ring fans.

If you like the silmarillion and book of lost tales one, than you cannot wait another day to get this. If you are like me and REALLY LIKE this whole middle earth thing with the trees, music of the ainur. etc, then you absolutely have to read this.

The first lost tales was the first half of the silmarillion, and of course part 2 of lost tales is the rest of the silm. Though a lot of these works are unfinished(certainly the whole tale telling itself with eriol and gilfanon?, yet some seem very finished like the fall of gondolin.

Some people don't think peter jackson did not do a good job with the lord, yet they do admit it was still a pretty good movie. I did not find return of the king NEAR as good as the other 2 movies, but I think that Pete was the best choice as director.

Now the point that I wanna make is that with all of the material from the book of lost tales part 1 AND 2, the silmarillion, unfinished tales, and all the annals I think Peter Jackson could make another epic movie doing 1 of 3 things, or something that I'm not thinking of. It doesn't matter how these are made, I just wanna see them on screen.

1. Make a two-part movie 6-7 hours in total.
2. Make a 3 1/2 hour or 4 hour movie
3. Pick a certain tale like turin or luthien

Any of these things that I have suggested are acceptable to me, but I would be open to any way possiblre to put this on screen.

I honestly feel that with the very strong emotions in these books it could be better than the lord of the rings movies.

`if he could indeed destroy with his cunning the happiness and glory of the Gods and Elves...'

When the hateful god Melko marred the world, the Valar hid within the blessed land of Valinor, abandoning the Elves and Men of Middle Earth to slavery under his terrible rule. This was the time of great heroes who challenged Melko's impossible might. Beren and Lúthien entered Melko's hall to pluck his most prized possession from his crown. Cursed Túrin became a feared enemy of all evil creatures. Tuor fought to save a beleaguered realm. The mighty kingdoms of Gondolin - ruled by King Turgon - and Menegroth - ruled by King Thingol - long provided refuge for the few free people. Finally Eärendel risked all to beseech the Valar for aid. These heroes made terrible sacrifices to rid the world of the greatest evil it has ever known. Ashamedly, as magic faded and the Elves fled from the world, Men forgot these great deeds.

Ages later, the English mariner Eriol sailed to Tol Eressëa, the Lonely Isle, where Elves welcomed him as guest. In grand oral tradition, they recounted to Eriol the tales that should never have been lost.

Anybody who enjoyed The Book of Lost Tales Part 1, which should be read first, will love Part 2. It is also helps to first read The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, Unfinished Tales, and, most importantly, The Silmarillion.

Christopher Tolkien continues to expertly assemble and present his father's works. His precise commentaries are essential to understanding J.R.R. Tolkien's mythos.

Some of the stories in Lost Tales are much more detailed than their final versions in the Silmarillion. Lost Tales is a treasure trove of rejected content that really fleshes out the myths.

The Book of Lost Tales Part 2 has six sections.

`The Tale of Tinúviel', one of Tolkien's most popular stories, tells of the triumphant love between Beren and Lúthien. This version is shockingly different than that found in The Silmarillion, and it contains much more dialogue and plot.

`Turambar and the Foalókë' is the stirring tragedy of Túrin son of Úrin (or Húrin). Cursed as a child, Túrin rages against fate with heroic intensity. This account is wonderfully detailed.

`The Fall of Gondolin' recounts the final days of King Turgon's fair city. Ulmo (the only Valar to intervene in Middle Earth during this period) sends brave Tuor upon a divine quest to bring counsel to the doomed realm. This Lost Tales version is staggeringly well detailed. The final battle for the city (summarized in a few sentences in The Silmarilllion) here receives tremendous attention. This action-heavy scene is definitely a highlight of the book.

In `The Nauglafring', Elves and Dwarves battle over cursed gold. This early-abandoned tale flatly contradicts much of Tolkien's other work.

`The Tale of Eärendel' tells of the legendary mariner who now sails the firmament above Earth as a radiant star, bringing hope to men. J.R.R. Tolkien never wrote this story, so this section consists of outlines, poems, and heavy commentary.

`The History of Eriol or Ælfwine' delves into Eriol's life. It clearly identifies Middle Earth as our Earth; for instance, the origins of England and Ireland are spelled out and Rome is presented as an Elvish enemy. Although enlightening, this thoroughly explained setting lacks the mysterious grandeur of LoTR's Middle Earth. This tale was never finished, and Christopher Tolkien shows superhuman diligence in piecing together jumbled outlines and narrative fragments. It is densely commented and makes a slow, though worthy, read.

The Book of Lost Tales shows the devotion J.R.R. Tolkien had for his craft. It is a perfect choice for any Silmarillion fan.

-Zach Zelmar

`The Book of Lost Tales, Part One and Part Two' by J. R. R. Tolkien, edited by son, Christopher Tolkien, is, according to the editor's Foreword, some of the very earliest works written by Tolkien on the mythology of Middle Earth. Many, it is stated, were drafted in the 1920s, nearly ten years before the start of `The Hobbit'.

This is an important fact, as it means that they were not written to `fill in' details of references made in either `The Hobbit' or `The Lord of the Rings' (LOTR). It means that both of these published novels were narratives of a preexisting world of Middle Earth with a history stretching back thousands of years, to the very creation of the world. This supports the sense of historical depth one has when you read both novels. Early in the Foreword, editor Tolkien addresses this very aspect and the danger that the great depth of history felt in the novels may not transfer to documents that lay out that history. I personally do not sense that danger when I read these works. The intellectual effort required to understand the text and tie it together with all the Tolkienania that has gone before is more than enough to keep me busy. This is the basis of my title for this review, `Fantasy for Grown-ups'.

My experience is that neither `The Hobbit' nor `LOTR' books or movies had a strong appeal to the same audience as the literal and virtual comic book works such as Spiderman, Superman, Batman, Star Wars, Lara Croft (Tomb Raider), or even Indiana Jones. The world in which Middle Earth is set is much more subtly different from our world or the world of `Long ago, and far, far, away...' Even in `The Hobbit' one gets hints that the world of Middle Earth is not our comfortable sphereical planet with a different geography but the same physics, chemistry, and biology. One gets the sense that while the great `Gandalf the Gray' may be called a `wizard', he is not a wizard in the same sense as Merlin or a wizard of `Dungeons and Dragons'.

The most important difference between Middle Earth and our world is that this continent is in the center of a great disk surrounded by seas across which are the undying lands including the Elven island of Eressea and Valinor. The next major difference is that there are beings, primarily elves, which walk the earth and which are literally immortal. That is, they cannot die by natural causes. They can, however, be killed in battle, as seen in `The Two Towers' movie with the death of the elven archer allies helping to defend the Hornburg with Aragorn, Theoden, and the Rohrrim. It is also interesting to see that Gandalf possesses an immortality of an entirely different order, as he survives the great battle with the Balrog in the mines of Moria, a battle that would have killed any ordinary immortal elf.

It would have been interesting to see Tolkien deal with immortality in the same way that John Boorman did in his script for the movie `Zardoz', an easily underestimated movie. (Oddly enough, Gandalf is most like the characterization of Merlin in Boorman's movie, `Excalibur').

Another big difference is that the physics of this world is different from our world. Light, for example, simply does not behave like our notions of light. It is much more like a liquid that can be captured in the Silmarils or in the vial give by Galadrial to Frodo in Lorien. This is part of the reason neither Gandalf nor any other character, even Sauron, seems to use much `magic'. What may appear to us as magic is simply bending the different laws of physics to the will of the magician, as Sauron does in creating the One Ring.

These two books are yet another step removed from the `popular fiction' of `LOTR'. `The Silmarillion' was one step removed in being much more like Hesiod's mythology than Homer's epics. The `Unfinished Tales' were another step removed in that they were close to being stories with extensive editorial annotations. These two volumes, which are really one work in two books are reconstructions of even cruder material. Reading them may be about as much fun as reading Frazier's `The Golden Bough'.

Now, reading `The Golden Bough' can be fun for a particularly intellectual interest, but it takes just a bit extra to gain the same pleasure from these works, as they are not stories from a historical mythology which may explain genuine primitive thought and beliefs. They are make believe! They just happen to be of a type of make believe which is more different than just about any other fiction you can imagine.

The greatest insight I get from these myths on the early history of Middle Earth is on the origins of Tom Bombadil and the Ents. While neither is mentioned, there are ample hints that both are beings who sprung up from the bones of Middle Earth itself, independent of any efforts by the Valar. This explains the total difference between Bombadil and every other character in `LOTR' aside from Treebeard and the Ents. The Elves, the Wizards, Sauron, dragons, and probably dwarves, hobbits, and men all arose out of immigrants from `The Undying Lands' or were created by the Valar.

I find the single most interesting character in these pre `LOTR' stories to be the Noldor (elven) leader Feanor. He seems to have the air of Prometheus about him in that he defies the gods (the Valar) without being an evil force like Melkor / Morgoth or Sauron. When Feanor is not on the stage, my interest drops several notches.

These are the first two volumes of the twelve volume `The History of Middle Earth'. While several of the volumes seem independent, I would not venture to read any of them without having read `The Silmarillion'. They will make very little sense without this background in hand.

I was going to buy the softcover edition of Austen's complete works, but after seeing this hardcover edition, I decided it's a better buy. It's not that much heavier compared to the softcover (surprising as that was one of my concerns), it's beautifully gilded, with ribbon marker attached. The 'leather' covers make it less susceptible to stains. The print is a comfortable size and the paper is thicker than I normally find in these collector type editions so they won't tear or wrinkle easily. The only negative for me is that the novels are not broken down by volumes. Each of Austen's novels was originally published in 3 volumes. This book bypass that and has continuous chapters instead. Not a big deal really unless you're a purist.

What a DELIGHTFUL anthology of all Jane Austen's novels! I was especially impressed with the beautifully embossed midnight blue and gold leather binding of this edition, gilded pages, and the sewn in ribbon book mark. This certainly is a worthwhile addition to anyone's library. In fact, I've already recommended it highly to several other people. (This is precisely the new volume Grigg purchased in the hit film "The Jane Austen Book Club"!)

Included as a bonus are the original pen and ink illustrations charmingly rendered by Hugh Thomson, which are both witty and expertly drawn. They capture the essence of the time period and the stories superbly. In addition to all six well-loved Jane Austen novels, the lesser-known "Lady Susan" is also present in this comprehensive volume. To purchase this entire edition, with high quality paper and such a beautiful binding for under $20.00 is unbelievable! By all means, purchase a copy immediately for any Jane Austen lover you know. They will treasure this volume forever!Jane Austen: The Complete Novels, Deluxe Edition (Library of Literary Classics)!

This book can't be beat for price (you'll pay more for the individual paperbacks) and the binding looks like a much more expensive edition.

Jane Austen: The Complete Novels, Deluxe Edition (Library of Literary Classics)
This is a beautiful book. Since it contains all the novels it is a handful but nicely bound with a leather cover and edge gilded pages. Since it is a weighty volume it has to be well made to stay together. I am half way through the book and it still looks like new. An incredible bargain at this price.

The Jane Austen collection is a complete volume of her novels that are being presented this season by Public Television stations across the USA. I like this book because it provides me with the actual novel from which the TV productions were derived. The only problem with the book is that it is a bit heavy to hold.

This was the best book I have read in a while. C-Murder is a great writer and I am looking forward to more. I have a 15 year old cousin that is captivated by the street life and I will be purchasing another book for him to read.

This book was interesting but at first a little confusing since I thought the book was about C-Murder. This book goes into the life of a boy playing a man's game in a grown up world. I found myself wanting to know what was
going to happen with the character in the book. I find that I would recommend this book to my friends. It's a must read.

A Letter to My Sisters: The Way Out
I must say I was very reluctant to read this book when it was suggested by my book club president. I was surprised at the content and life lessons shown. I had difficulty wading through the language, but I was not so narrow minded that I failed to see that there was dissapointment, intrigue, love, family failures and many societal failures taking place in the life of the characters.I realize that obcenity and profanity are very prevalent in the life of certain segments of society. I so much wanted the influence of the grandmother to dominate more, but that didn't happen. There was definitely a battle between evil and good taking place. I felt Daquan's pain as he attempted to struggle with the issues life threw at him. The book came to an inevitable end.

I cannot believe that I slept on this book for so long. From the first to the last page it grips you. C-Murder has some serious talent in the writing game, I can not wait to see what he has in store for us next and with his new publishing label. I will be buying anything he drops. This book deserves more than five stars. ONE of the best books I have ever read! Pick this book up you will not be disappointed!

In an instant, young Daquan Watson's world was turned upside down. One act of violence has shattered the family life he once knew. Now living with Grandma Mama in The Calliope Projects, Third Ward, a notorious, drug-infested housing projects, it's just a matter of time before the lure of the streets is too much to resist. With death around every corner, will Daquan escape?

And with that, DEATH AROUND THE CORNER heads off into a violent, complicated, gritty and fascinating storyline. Books about the hood appear in a steady flow today and the flow just seems to continue to increase. However, quantity does not make up for quality. DEATH AROUND THE CORNER beats the odds. C-Murder's gripping account of one young man's experiences adds immeasurably to one's understanding of the challenges faced by many of our black youth. Its setting is rich in local color and local characters. DEATH AROUND THE CORNER proves to be exciting, with a jaw-dropping climax. Multi-platinum rapper C-Murder takes a gamble and wins, so does the reader. Maybe he can do for New Orleans literary what his brother Master P has done for New Orleans ' rap scene. Highly recommend. Looking forward to Tru Publishing.

Reviewed by: Toni

All of James Herriot's books are great. This is another one. All dogs are unconditional love on four legs.

Stephen Richey author of The Galley

I drive an hour each way to and from work, and this enjoyable book made the time go by quickly.

This is an exceptional book of true stories from the author's actual experiences... a heart-warming book that will bring laughter, tears, and a thorough enjoyment for readers of all ages.

I read his books as a teen and loved them. Bought the whole set for my grandsons, [teens]. They laughed until they cried. [so did I].

This book has many heartwarming stories. It really discribes the way veterinary work was handled years ago. Mr. Herriot is a great story teller.

After reading "The Summer Guest" by Justin Cronin I couldn't wait to read something else by this wonderful author. That's when I bought "Mary and O'Neill". His first novel, "Mary and O'Neill" is just as enjoyable as "The Summer Guest", if in a somewhat different way. Don't let the fact that this is a novel in short store put you off. Even if you don't usually enjoy this type of book (and I don't) you will be glad you read "Mary and O'Neill". I cannot wait to see what else Mr. Cronin has in store for us. Believe the excellent reader reviews and buy this book!

Justin's Cronin's first novel is broken up into a collection of eight short stories about the love between parents, siblings, children and lovers.

The book doesn't begin with the title characters, but rather with O'Neil's parents, Arthur and Miriam. The entirety of the book is balanced on the early revelation of the sweet complexity of their love in life and death. Their death in the first story sets the tone for the rest of the stories, providing their children with both answers and more questions about love and loss.

Mary and O'Neil's love affair is one brought about by just these questions. Mary lives with the ghost of a child she aborted early on in the book, while O'Neil's parents live in his memory with such vitality that he actually tries to call them after the birth of his first child--only to unexpectedly have a sad and beautiful conversation with a lonely stranger. Cronin creates Mary and O'Neil as the answers to each other's questions. Even the names that Cronin picks for them overflow with a sense of completeness: "Mary" and "O'Neil," sound more like a first name and surname than two separate characters.

The surname as name only makes more sense when one considers O'Neil's presence in the book as father figure. It is O'Neil who develops as a source of strength for several characters in the book, anointing him the ultimate patriarch of this novel. Cronin is poetic and beautifully subtle when he baptizes O'Neil's relationship with the woman who completes him and gives him a first name. The baptism is complete when Mary is ready to walk down the aisle and it begins to rain. O'Neil looks at her and all the guests at their wedding and, Cronin writes, "in his heart he marries each one of them."

Cronin's style is delicate and full of purpose, just like all of the relationships between his characters. It is hard not to relate to this book in some way if you've ever loved someone, harder still to not find Cronin's prose captivating in its wisdom and sincerity.

Mary and O'neil was so poignant with paragraphs I read and re-read numerous times because they struck a chord of something lost yet familiar to me. I cannot wait for more from this author; he has my heart!

Just finished reading Mary and O'Neil, and I know that it will stay with me for a long time. I laughed and cried, sighed and nodded my head as I read. This a very well crafted novel comprised of short stories, reminding me of the chapters of our lives. The relationships between parents and children, siblings, spouses and friends are realistically portrayed. Thanks to the author for a special experience. I look forward to reading his novel, The Summer Guest soon.

I read this book after finishing (right after!) The Summer Guest, also by Cronin. I loved both books. THe story line in each is poignant and moving and the characterizations are fleshed out brilliantly - with depth, eloquence and humor. The beauty of Cronin's writing is in his seemingly effortless ability to turn a phrase that just sings with its purity. He is able to capture, and describe emotions and events like no other author I've encountered in recent years. This is a lovely if odd story that jumps through the decades with poignant prose, the building of relationships, and the pain of loss. In reading Cronin's work you are left with a mystical and magical feeling. I did not want this book to be over as the emotions it evoked were much more powerful than those we typically feel in everyday life (unless you are 13). I found it hard to re-enter my own life - as if I were somehow changed by reading the words of this writer. Highly recommended!

This gorgeously written debut novel is comprised of brief chapters written with beautiful precision, stirring imagery, emotional depth and a sense of imminent tragedy (opens with the main character in a burn ward, both parents dead). Isa has a remote mathematical father, beautiful and expressive--although critical--mother, a tragic younger brother, a hippie family as friends, and an albino boyfriend who makes her feel less "other." Her story charts the silences in a death-quieted household, and the resulting isolation of the family members. I had trouble believing that a 16-17 year old girl would engage in such extroverted raucous sex (parents and teachers take note: graphic descriptions of sex); the albinism aspect felt somewhat contrived to me; and events revealed at the end also seemed somewhat unbelievable, as if it was created to fit characterization and fulfill a psychological plot device, rather than being a realistic act that would reveal character. Impressive first novel.

Secondhand World
Katherine Min

Katherine Min beckons us to accompany Isadora Myung Hee Sohn on her search for identity, her journey of teenage discovery as a Korean American. We stride, we stumble on a trail beset with family tension and cultural clash set in a mosaic of shifting relationships, of friendships done and undone, of a father's hidden quest for meaning in life.

Isa's father, entangled in his adherence to the accuracy of scientific proof, is unable to appreciate his daughter's and wife's appreciation for poetry. "Poetry," he said. "No substance. Anybody can write a poem. It's just words."

But words in the hands of a gifted writer do have substance. So magnificently evident in the volume before us.

The author's detailed phrases, allegories, and contemplative passages form the tone and substance that distinguish extraordinary writing. Her words vibrate as they pass into our memory bank.

Ms. Min's feeling for words may be best described in Isa's own explanation of why she enjoyed reading the dictionary: The words "...seemed to float in my brain, words - lovely and sinuous, devious and clever - surprising me with their specificity, their shadings, and their oddness."

As readers, we grudgingly reach journey's end, exhausted in a way, yet exhilarated in having had this opportunity to experience the debut of a gifted writer.

Glen W. Swanson and Annagreta Swanson, Peterborough, NH

Here's a case where the words "haunting debut" really do ring true. "Secondhand World" is genuinely moving, and the ache that you'll feel while reading it (and after) is the result of an immensely skillful writer using language to evoke a whole world of feeling. What a fine balance Katherine Min strikes in getting us to recognize the longing and isolation her characters feel. It's never heavy-handed. The book's insights are so precisely rendered they feel like real discoveries. Isadora and her struggle for acceptance may be front and foremost in many readers' minds (it may just be the most universal and therefore accessible aspect of the novel to talk about), but behind her lurks the story of her parents and their struggle is more harrowing, sadder, wiser. I won't forget them or this terrific book.

Secondhand World opens with a quote from the Orpheus Variations: "Of all the tricks of memory, the cruelest / Is accuracy." This sentiment is, I believe, the key to appreciating the savage beauty of this novel. The world that Isadora Myung Hee Sohn inhabits during her senior year in high school pulsates with an energy that is just beyond our capacity to understand. The minutiae of what is seen and felt every day becomes ominous not because of what happens, but because of what is observed.

There is no sepia-toned sentimentality. Isa's sloppy sexual awakening, her righteousness about her parents' flaws, the distance that grows between her and her closest friends from sharing too great a level of intimacy---the narrator bridges the gaps in our selective memories, reminding us of how painful and wondrous life at that age truly is.

The seemingly simple, layered narrative; the fires that bookend the pregnant silences in Isa's household; the irreversible consequences of being human----a person could reflect endlessly on the images, the language, and the emotional depth of this novel. How is it that we survivors (all of us) can fail to see or fail to understand even those closest to us? How can the fleeting and mundane make life sublime? This is not a plot-driven novel, yet it is almost impossible to put down.

Seattle was recently pummeled by 70 mph winds that brought down trees and power lines. Our lights went out at midnight, when I still had twenty pages left to go. I scrambled around for the flashlight so that I could finish the novel, ignoring the howling wind, the flapping of a neighbor's roof, and a passing emergency vehicle until I was done. Then I lay awake thinking not about the dipping temperature but about the story.

Secondhand World is a remarkable novel. I highly recommend it.

Read it for the flawless sentences or the unexpected turns: a coming-of-age novel in which loss is more than the vanity of innocence, a familial and cultural clash whose darker side inexorably turns into the light and the reader's full view, a first-person point-of-view that conveys the stuff of a world as well as an individual consciousness, a look at how American life is so richly imagined and so blankly played out, including wonderful coming-of-sexual age road trip that combines Henry Millerian exuberance with Nabokovian irony. The four main characters - the teenage Korean-American heroine, her immigrant parents, and her not-quite-blind boyfriend - deepen and come more alive on the page the more pages you turn. This is a deftly put-together novel that makes good on its promise and then some.

Being a huge Cartel Publications fan, this book did not let me done at all. Jason Poole did his thing with this book. Victoria's Secret(s) were truly shown in this book. I was on the edge of my sit waiting for more. CARTEL PUBLICATIONS IS WHATS IT!!!!

In this fast paced tale you are introdued to Victoria -aka- Vic, who proves to be a princess from the start. Conflict in the home between her hard working father and her alcoholic mother soon finds Victoria in foster care where she meets Penny and Liddy, her sisters for life. It's not until she is "rescued" from foster care and put into an even deeper compromisng position that she meets her savior, Babyface, that she shows what she's capable of.
Victoria and babyface learn the ropes of how the pimp/ho game works as they jump over hurtles always having each others back. Amongst them are other colorful characters that will have you on the edge of your seat dying to know what happens next.
Jason took me back and had me ready to pull out my old Donald Goines and Iceberg Slim novels. As with these late greats, he created a tale of how gritty the underworld of pimping is, and what it truly meant to be a bottom b*#ch.

Good job, Jason! I'll be looking for your next novel.

Damm. is all i can say.this book had my mouth wide open. jason poole you have done something good.Keep up the good work. please hurry up with part2.

WOW!!!! This book was off the chain. I loved it. If you want a page turner...this is the book to read. I would recommend this book to anyone who reads urban fiction. Great job Jason Poole!!! Looking forward to your next book.

Jason Poole has a hit in the urban fiction arena with his novel, Victoria's Secret. Within its pages, readers journey into the tumultuous lives of Babyface James and Victoria Grey. Babyface and Victoria bore scars from tragic childhoods, but that was not what made them a force to be reckoned with. This dynamic duo put Bonnie and Clyde to shame as they explored different area codes with one plan; to pimp harder. Fresh faces meant new booty and new booty meant more cash in this underworld Babyface and Victoria took by storm. From possibly being crowned `Pimp of the Year' at the legendary Playa's Ball to learning the pimp definition of southern hospitality, Babyface stacked cash and stashed bodies in his tracks with the essential ride-or-die chick. On the flip side, Victoria's secrets could dismantle their stable and disable their pimp, but how could she help when she was barely alive?

Poole's potentially classic tale is a glimpse into Pimpdom; a world most find irrational and comical simultaneously. From gaudy-garmented pimps and their dialect, to hosistahs and their intricate relationships, no detail was spared unless you count the grammatical burps. Also, under the circumstances of which Victoria's secrets were uncovered, I expected more consistency in the story being told from her point of view. With its solid plot and good use of supporting characters, Victoria's Secret is undeniably an entertaining read. It is guaranteed to grace literary charts, but why settle for fifth place when it could be number one? Regardless, it is a must read for urban fiction enthusiasts.

Reviewed by Darnetta Frazier
APOOO BookClub

"Wild Sweet Love" is the first historical novel of Ms. Jenkins that I've read and I'm really looking forward to reading the others. Teresa July, Madison Nance and all the other characters plus the storyline made reading this novel worthwhile.

It's a really good read. The few that I've read by this author all have been good reads. However, I've noticed that with each storyline, the character's hit the homerun before they are married. Call me old fashioned, but I'd like to see the ladies get married before the man gets the prize.

I highly recommend this book. This was my first time reading anything from this author and I must say that I will now try to find any other titles that she's written. It was a hard to put down page-turner. I felt a real connection with all of the characters and felt as though I knew them all. Great read!

Another excellent read from Beverly Jenkins, I looked forward to Teresa's story after reading Something Like Love, good to catch up with the rest of her family and hope to read her other single brothers romance tales.
BJ is The Expert when it comes to historical African American romances.
Add this to your Jenkins collection.

I loved this book. I started reading this book at 9 PM and did not put the book down until I was finished at 1:45 AM. I really liked the fact that Teresa July was imperfect. The chemistry between Madison and July leaped off the pages. I also enjoy catching up with the July brothers. While this book is a sequel, it certainly can stand on its own.

I was recently introduced to Beverly Jenkins a month ago, since then I have ordered and read 7 of her books. It's so hard to even pick a favorite. "Night Song" will always have a special place in my heart; it was the ultimate love story.

Challenging, reflective and motivating, delivered with panache.

The Last Panther Speaks to us through poetry, lyrics and short stories that does much more than just touch your life.

"Don't live behind the walls that guilt built
The longer you stay incased in that tomb
The harder it becomes to break free
And write a new and different story
With the pen
That is your life"

Love it!

"True love is the bridge
That covers the gaps
Left by
Misunderstandings
And like wise
Understanding
Is the passage way
Through which
True love
Enters our lives"

"Your Chance To Hear The Last Panther Speak" is a huge asset to the literary world as well as anyone, from any background, who takes the time to read it. I specifically suggest it to young adults and teenagers on a path to figure themselves out and too unsure of how to surpass the labels instilled within their life through the ignorance of society.

One thing that impressed me most is that Chase Von does not only help people surpass their label but also leads by example. A tough feat for anyone, but especially someone who lived within the label of a strong, unemotional gangster.
No matter what I face in life I can always find a write that I can relate to. He has the ability to put what other people are thinking but can't always articulate, into words. Beyond that, his writing style is versatile (Which is a talent few writers have) but the content always remain powerful!
I was reluctant to pick up the book, reading the words 'Black Panther" within the title I made an incorrect assumption that the book was aimed towards an audience interested in reading the message of the group The Black Panthers.

"Don't judge this book by its cover"

The works are moving (sometimes to the point of tears) and will teach you life long lessons.

Audrey Michelle

From the first poem "my silence" posted on my page and through every stories and poems, it resonnated in my heart... this book will not leave you indifferent, it will challenge you for some, comfort you in your views for others, in a way or another, if it's by the beauty of the writting or by the meaning of his content,with certainty , i assure you that it will expand your heart and soul.

Thank you Chase for shining and being you.

"Where in today's world

Are those that truly carry on

The torch

That he so brilliantly lit our world with?"

You are one of them my friend.
Sincerely,
Flavia

Despite being a poet myself, most poetry does not impress me.
With few exceptions, I was impressed by the passionate and compassionate poems in this book. His myspace revealed a perspective I appreciate and identify with, and indicated a talent for poetry. Intrigued, and based only on this, I bought the book... and was grateful to discover that Chase von really is a talented poet. Grateful not only to have not wasted my money, but to have the opportunity to experience this remarkable book. His poetic work expresses and encourages the essense of a good man.
Each entry meaningful and socially relevent; the tone and themes are optimistic, insightful, conscientous, loving and inspirational.

If you enjoy great poetry, you won't regret reading this.
Don't miss your chance to hear the Last Panther speak.

i really enjoyed. this book. it clearly identifies the problems that our society faces today in a fresh approach. i heard the compassion and concern for this generation and generations to come.

the book is a pleasant book of poems and short stories. a variety that communicates to the reader in a very interesting fashion, the authors life. i enjoied each different subject and his interesting way of describing the knowledge into images that just flow as you read.
very captivating read.
i would definately recomend this book!