Characters Books

it is very easy to read. i love that it gives you bible verses and the real application in parenting. it will enlighten your path and fill you with blessings. i wish i had read it while i was a mom, but i will definetely apply it as a grandmother. an excellent gift for young christians parents.

The author has taken the idea of constructing a house and has used each segment such as building a firm foundation, proper framing, placing a sturdy roof overhead, etc. to illustrate in short chapters how to build wise qualities of character into a child. This book is so practical in teaching the various desirable character traits to children as well as, I have found, to students in a classroom environment. The author frequently includes in each 1-4 page chapter, a short story from real life which very clearly illustrates the concept being communicated. I find it inviting, entertaining, and very useful, and I can clearly see the wisdom of the concepts throughout the pages of the book. I would love to have had the opportunity to learn these character traits as I was growing up in the way the author shares them. I am finding it is not too late, however, as in reading the book, I am learning new ways, for example, of forgiving, how not to quit, and having integrity through the compelling stories and the "what parents can do" segment in each chapter. I plan to use the wisdom of the book in teaching my upcoming classes and expect to see some changes in students (and in myself!) because of that.

After reading Oregon author, Jeannie St. John Taylor's new book on how to raise children I wish I could nominate it book of the year. Her focus comes from Psalm 127:1 "Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builder is wasted." The analogy points to God as the Master Builder, the Bible his instruction book that instructs parents in partnership with Him to build their families on a foundation of rock (God) instead of sand, (material values).

Most everyone agrees character is forged in the home. With that in mind, Taylor continues the analogy in one hundred thirty-one short chapters organized into eight sections. Some include:
* Set a Foundation of Godly Principles
* Follow the Architect's Plan
* Frame with Strong Values
* Build a Sturdy Floor
* Install locks and an Alarm
Short, to the point topics are formatted under headings related to framing a house, such as framing materials--values, to installing locks and alarms--how to cope with peer pressure and exposure to media. She encourages parents to set a good example by starting each day with Scripture and prayer to strengthen faith, seek God's will, and become a good role model. The responsibility to build moral values lies with the parent, and can be accomplished in single parent as well as two-parent homes, if parents partner with the Lord and pray.

Chapters open with Scripture that re-enforce each topic followed by a brief incident or personal illustration from Taylor's life that leads to "What Parents Can Do." This section includes biblical principles, practical tips, and specific suggestions.

Chapters conclude with examples of "Prayer for Myself," and "Prayer for My Children." For example, from the chapter about love as a goal she writes, "Lord, sometimes I am not as loving as I should be. I think negative thoughts and I hold a lot of wrong attitudes. Heal me by letting me experience your love. Teach me how to communicate your love to my kids."

The prayer for children states, "Help them understand that I love them deeply even when I fail to show it as I should."

This book encourages parents to enlist God's help to raise children of character, because, as the author notes, "If you parent well, the rewards are immense..." for you and for them. Taylor's book spells out how to raise godly children in today's culture of mixed messages and equip them with strong Christian character. I feel this book was inspired by the Holy Spirit and I rate this as a must read for every parent, grandparent, or those becoming a parent.

This is a very important book. Many parents are confused and concerned about raising their children in today's culture. Experts are giving them multitudes of mixed messages. Mrs. Taylor's book spells out the foundations for raising kids that are able to get along in today's world.
I highly recommend the book for parents, those thinking of becoming parents, and grandparents. It will guide you in dealing with your children, helping them to become the adults you hope for them to be.

Jeannie St. John Taylor's "Culture-proof Kids" offers parents practical pointers for building character into their children. These suggestions are presented in easily adapted steps for easy assimilation and application.

The book is formatted in short topical subjects classified under headings related to following an architect's plans for building a house. It begins by emphasizing the need for a solid foundation. The concluding chapters deal with providing locks and a security system. Each chapter opens with Scripture verses setting the pace for building "Culture-proof Kids." A brief incident from the author's life, a story from one of her family members experiences, or an application illustrating the principle being developed leads into the section called "What Parents Can Do."

These practical "how to" suggestions for parents are rich in positive Biblically based, time tested, principles. Each chapter concludes with a reflective "Prayer for Myself", seeking wisdom, strength, and guidance, and an intercessory "Prayer for My Children."

A favorite example of Taylor's sage advice is, "Give them abundant physical affection. If you aren't a hugger, take hugging lessons from them. And smooching lessons . Kids need affection."

Jeannie St. John Taylor is a natural communicator. She articulates well and demonstrates a genuine concern for problems of Christian parenting in today's culture.

I really enjoy Mr. Mayer's stories. His characters kind of seem real and their sense of humor in the face of danger makes for fun reading. I can lose myself in his books and just enjoy the story. I really do enjoy this character and storyline.

Cut-Out had plenty of action and suspense, as well as many plot twists I simply couldn't have imagined. Once again, Bob Mayer demonstrates that he definetly knows his stuff when it comes to special ops, being a former Green Beret himself. The book was a little on the short side, though, at 238 pages

I enjoyed it, devoured it in one night! What can I say? A book simply put and plotted with a natural in-depth touch. The Witness Protection(Security?) Program just made me sick with disgusting taste! Read it, my friends, read all of Mr. Mayer's Riley titled books, you won't be disappointed

Bob Mayer puts together plots that make you squirm with anticipation and revel in their culmination. The obligatory comparisons to clancy and his ilk will come up (doubtedlessly) but Mayer writes a unique book that skips through the grandstanding and posturing typical of the genre. Instead of simply glorifying warfare he tells it like it is: The reader is left satisfied with a hearty, real serving of military thriller without the sugarcoating. His wry digs at government screw-ups are delicious -- and reek of accuracy. I anticipate the (soon to be released) next book to come from this great, and still developing author. This book, Cut-Out, strings a complex, rich plot of corruption in the U.S. Witness Security Program, a topic that hasn't been beaten to death by the other writers in this market. Mayer has a knack for choosing issues that no one has explored, and exploits them to build books you finish, put down, shake your head and grin. --Synbat is a close tie with this for his best work.

The fourth Dave Riley book and well worth the wait. This one has Riley assisting a lady friend from the previous book, a Chicago police detective, with a Mob member who goes into the Witness Security Program. Things go wrong as people are murdered, hired killers pursue Riley and company across the wilderness to a terrific climax. No one can be trusted, phones are tapped, ruthless professional hit men and government agents are using all their skills and power to stop the witness and his wife and whoever they are with. Then Riley enters the picture and with his military skills and courage tries to outwit the killers. Great storyline, the plot is filled with turns and corners. Fresh dialog and smooth action scenes propel the reader into this nebulous and dangerous world. Good stuff, Bob. More Dave Riley. I am currenly waiting for Eternity Base and I cannot locate a copy of Z anywhere. Keep up the great work, Robert, the ending to this one sizzles. Also, check out The Line and The Gate (written as Bob McGuire) for more adventures with a twist.

"Honesty is the best policy" is what we've been taught since childhood. But I would add "it may come with a price." When you read Mark Roberts' latest book it will challenge you in ways you may find surprising!

Perhaps it was the title that lead me to the initial idea that perhaps Dr. Mark Roberts had taken "a little time off" from the theological depth of his earlier books. "Everybody knows what truthfulness is and how to be truthful" was perhaps what I was thinking. Then, as I read I began to see that Truth is not so simple; this book was going to reach me at both the intellectual level and in my heart.

Since you're reading this review, like me you probably see yourself as a "truthful" person. Be prepared to be challenged by the bright light of truth that Mark Roberts' writing will shine on you. That's the "price." But the value is the added freedom that you will discover as you more fully commit to letting God show you truth.

And don't be afraid that you will be attacked by the author's words. This is not some "fire & brimstone" sermon. But gentle words and personal examples as used by Mark can be very powerful. They were for me.

The title is well chosen; this is a "Dare" well worth accepting!

Perhaps, like me, you have often read titles on Christian ethics and felt that the author did not really live in the real world the rest of us face each day. In "Dare to Be True" Roberts has tackled a difficult subject with a healthy balance of scriptural instruction combined with tangible illustrations from everyday life. The world needs more books on practical Christian ethics for the layman, I enjoyed this book greatly, and will recommend it to both my believing and non-believing friends.

Roberts' approach to a difficult topic - being truthfull in all that we do - is refreshing and convicting, and his examination of the components of being a true and honest person are challenging. There is much to be tackled in these pages that bares careful reflection. Roberts also shows candor in relating his own struggle with anger as a parent - insight I find wonderfully refreshing.

I would suggest this book as a fine focal point for Bible study or small groups. In a time when the Church needs to be more introspective toward its (sometimes weak) witness in a watching world, this work provides a catlyst for honest thought.

Finally, in the interest of full disclosure and being truthful, I should add that I have been a good friend of Mark Roberts for almost 20 years, and I should add that he is a faithful pastor, thoughtful theologian, dear friend, and has a great sense of humor. However, his golf game is abysmal. See, I am already doing better at being truthful!

Dare To Be True: Living In The Freedom Of Complete Honesty by Mark D. Roberts (Senior Pastor of Irvine Presbyterian Church, Irvine, California), is a spiritual self-help guide especially appropriate for Christians struggling to remain truthful in a spin-saturated world that punishes honesty and rewards well-crafted lies. Offering a plan to cultivate an honest credo in relationships (including the one shared with God, improve one's feelings of self-worth and straighten one's character), Dare To Be True draws upon the wisdom of scripture to encourage improvement in one's life and soul.

"Dare to Be True" tackles tough issues in relation to the practice of speaking the truth and living the truth. Drawing on the encouragement and insight of the Scriptures, this readable volume offers plenty of vivid illustrations and real-world examples of what commitment to truth looks like in today's world. As one of Mark's former students at Fuller, I have always appreciated his academic ability but this book offers much more. "Dare to Be True" reveals the tender heart of a pastor who is committed to living according to the example of Jesus who came to us "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). This book will help all who hope to live in the same way.

I could hardly put this book down until I had finished it. This is a deep but accessible book containing the truth about truth. I read it hoping to gain insight about others in my life who aren't so truthful, and found more applications to my own life than I expected. Mark Roberts is an excellent, gifted writer. His tone is gentle and confessional, but he holds nothing back about the biblical imperative for truth with God, with others and with ourselves. He shares wonderful, pertinent examples from his own life and the lives of others about how God has honored their truth-telling and truth-living.

This book has made a difference in my life and has prompted me to go back and make some things right--to live a life of truth and transparency before God and in the world. It would be excellent for a Sunday school class or Bible study group as well as for individuals. The concepts Roberts presents are foundational to our freedom in Christ. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to experience more of that freedom.

Elizabeth L.Hamilton's "Date with Responsibility" is a rivetting and compelling true story of 17 year old Valeta's rise from a popular student with few responsibilities to a life and death struggle that afflicts her with many responsibilities, without her high school diploma,loss of her dreams and friendships. Every teenager should be required to read a "Date with Responsibility".

Madeline Frank, Ph.D. author of "The Secret of Teaching Science and Math Through Music", how to have brighter children through music and "Musical Notes On Math", teaching fractions and decimals through the rhythm of music. www.madelinefrankviola.com

I just wanted to write you and thank you for the book. I loved it!! I just couldn't put it down! I read it in about 3 days. It was so good, and it was full of adventure and drama. I love those kind of books.

Although I am older than the targeted reader for this book and typically not a reader of fiction, I found it to be a very enjoyable. Elizabeth has done a excellent job of weaving historical information as well as strong practical lessons on responsibility within a suspenseful, (have to find out what happens next) story. The main character, Valeta is your typical teenage girl whose world is violently changed, forcing her to deal with huge adult issues. I highly recommend parents with teenage daughters to get this book into their hands. Your daughter will thoroughly enjoy the story and inadvertently learn valuable lessons regarding responsibility. This book is truly edutaining ( entertaining AND educational).

In the latest book in her Character-in-Action series for teens, _Date with Responsibility_, author Elizabeth Hamilton again delivers an exciting novel filled with emotion and drama, lessons and morals. _Date with Responsibility_, inspired by the true story of a friend of the author, tells the story of Valeta, a popular high school senior, and her boyfriend Edwin, a young Marine. In the opening paragraphs, readers meet Valeta as she prepares for a high school dance and daydreams about a future filled with lots of fun and few responsibilities. Quickly, however, those daydreams fall apart and Valeta wakes up to a reality she never could have imagined. Through tragic circumstances beyond their control, Valeta and Edwin find themselves thrown into a chaotic situation of intrigue, broken dreams, and deep disappointments. They are forced to learn the true meaning of responsibility and make heart-rending decisions, such as whether there is a future for them as a couple, as they grapple with such difficult moral issues as pre-marital sex and the sanctity of life.

While the subject matter of _Date with Responsibility_ is serious and sometimes heart-breaking to read, the themes of purpose, hope, and friendship run throughout the story. The lovable McKean family, last seen in _Passport to Courage_, is back, offering Valeta friendship and inspiration, and several other new friends provide hope and love to Valeta as she struggles with her new life and builds new dreams.

Hamilton weaves a fast-paced, deeply emotional, and thought-provoking tale while dispensing plenty of biblical wisdom and practical advice. As in Hamilton's previous teen novel, _Passport to Courage_, _Date with Responsibility_ delivers a gripping storyline interlaced with important life lessons. The story will keep the reader riveted while Hamilton gently, and without preaching, offers up subtle advice on topics ranging from pre-marital sex and abortion to financial prudence and commitment, all of which underscores the main theme of responsibility in all areas of one's life.

"I just finished this book. It was very intriguing. I loved how Hamilton told a story about responsibility from all different angles. It was also 'nice' to read a rape story that didn't end in the girl being abandoned ... At first I thought it was going to be another love-sick perfect girl romance story. But it helped me to see though the 'bad apples' that have given me my judgment. Even the 'perfect' cheerleader has problems, not just those below her in the school caste system. ... Hamilton also kept the suspense going right to the end."

...as a followup for Deadroll. It extends the previous book which seemed to end abruptly without proper ending. The writing style of Greg Moody is very natural, so the book reads very fast. So read the Dead Air and learn bomber's fate.

This review is long over due. I read Dead Air many months ago. I'm just now coming down from the exhilaration of another fine Moody murder mystery novel. Moody once again blends the two things he knows best...cycling and TV. He has written one of the finest and most exciting fight scenes I've ever read. If you think you know how this one ends....think again.

Greg Moody's books are a fun habit. If you have any interest whatsoever in professional cycling (and who doesn't after Lance Armstrong's feats) read Greg's books. You'll get an inside, albeit wild and crazy look at the peloton. You definitely should read the books in the order written (this is the fifth in the series), to understand the history of Will Ross, a washed-up bike racer who has years of European pro cycling under his belt, but always manages to get in one last ride, or one last season, in each of the books. In the latest, he is on staff at a Denver TV news station, and is sent to cover a ride through the Rockies. Mayhem predictably follows, and Will must try to clear his name, find and outwit a mad-bomber, get along with his mobster in-laws, and take yet another ride-of-his-life. Hang on to your cycling shorts!

Fans of Will Ross will not be disappointed with this much anticipated followup to Deadroll. My only problem is I read the book too fast. I guess I'll have to start over with book 1 and read the whole series. Long live Will Ross!

Dead Air is another challenging mystery by Greg Moody. I so enjoyed getting to know new characters as Moody peels away the layers of their personalities, but I was also glad to encounter familiar old characters from his previous novels. The book flows with glimpses into the insanity of the villain and the T.V. Station! Along with the prose are gritty descriptions of life on a bike. Reading a book by Greg Moody is like choosing between plain vanilla ice cream or a hot fudge sundae... he makes you work a little harder than a "canned formula" mystery, but the satisfaction is well worth the effort!!! This is a great read and should be added to your summer book list!

Forensic anthropologist Dr. Diane Fallon is back with another twisted adventure involving her beloved RiverTrail Museum of Natural History, of which she is the director. Right now there is a lot keeping her busy - most prominent is the lead story in the local paper about one of her employees - assistant director Kendel Williams - dealing in stolen antiquities through museum channels. But in the middle of that fire is an incarcerated felon (Clymene O'Reily) asking Diane, who helped ensure Clymene's conviction, to help save the life of a prison guard - a felon who is convicted of killing her husband and suspected of much worse. When Clymene escapes prison shortly after Diane's visit, all eyes turn to Diane - did she help the serial killer, or is she about to become her next victim?

Though small, the museum is teeming with activities from the employees - museum and crime lab. Yes, crime lab. Diane is also the director of the crime scene unit for the area, whose labs are housed within the museum, as well. While her specialty is bones, her reputation for detective work has preceded her, and this time she's teaming up with FBI profiler Ross Kingsley in the search for Clymene's past - a past that the chameleon-like criminal has managed to keep under wraps. Using her know-how in forensics and anthropology, Diane and Ross managed to dig up more than a few secrets - but can they do it without ending up like the fossils in the museum?

Diane should take up juggling, because it seems that is all she does in this book - and she does it well. Handling the FBI concerning the lost felon while dealing with the FBI agents investigating the stolen artifacts is confusing enough - but add apartment troubles and secret poisonings into the mix with several irate and outspoken members of the museum board, one is never sure where the story is heading next.

I had forgotten how much I enjoyed Connor's work, and I hope that won't happen next time. Fallon is an excellent, well-rounded protagonist whose life is somewhat on the hectic side, but never dull. There seems to be some stretching to get the small museum in on the crimes, but Connor has created something of a unique situation to keep the series alive. This is a great mystery with suspense, a little romance, and forensics all between the pages.

This book was a great follow-on to the series. I wasn't disappointed and can't wait for the next one!

Dead Hunt was my first experience with author Beverly Connor. I decided to give her a try in part because of some of the positive reviews of her books here, and I must say, I'm sold! Immediately upon finishing Dead Hunt, I went on line and ordered a copy of Dead Past, the book in the Diane Fallon series just prior to this one.

First of all, Dead Hunt is very well written and was a joy to read! Also, Diane Fallon isn't your typical heroine. She's a forensic anthropologist with a fascinating career, working both as Director of the Rosewood Crime Lab and Director of the RiverTrail Museum of Natural History (which owns and houses the lab). Her dual hats make for some interesting plot possibilities!

In this installment, Diane has received a letter from Clymene O'Riley, a woman in prison for murdering her husband - convicted on evidence found by Diane herself. The letter requests Diane's presence at the prison. While Diane has no intention of meeting with the woman she believes is a serial killer, Ross Kingsley, the FBI profiler connected to the case, requests that Diane comply with the request. At their meeting, Clymene tells Diane a strange but worrisome story involving a prison guard, something that Diane can't ignore.

In addition, Diane finds herself embroiled smack dab in the middle of a scandal involving the museum which places her in an exasperating and career-threatening situation that diverts her attention from the meeting with Clymene - that is, until she learns that Clymene has escaped from prison and crime scenes start to pile up, with Diane herself in danger.

Diane Fallon is surrounded by top-notch, loyal individuals, both in the crime lab and the museum, and they work together diligently and relentlessly to get to the bottom of everything that is going on. The science is fascinating, and the characters, both good and bad, interesting. I recommend this book highly, and fully intend to read more novels by Beverly Connor - especially the next Diane Fallon Forensic Investigation book!

Carol Ann Hopkins 4/27/2008

It's amazing that every Beverly Connor book doesn't immediately rush to the top of the best seller lists. Her books are among the most readable and consistently interesting I've ever encountered. DEAD HUNT, the fifth in the Diane Fallon mystery series, is no exception.

This series is set in a natural history museum in a small town near Atlanta and is full of small town politics, gossip and a modern version of southern charm that is tempered by life in a major metropolitan area. The recurring characters are well developed and just quirky enough to avoid some of the common cliches seen in so many series. Ms. Connor has concocted a mix of police procedural, forensic magic, historical detail, romance and violence to appeal to nearly any taste. I guarantee that you will learn something new in each of her books; in some it's the inner workings of museums, in others it's forensic details that would make Kathy Reiches or Patricia Cornwell proud, in DEAD HUNT you'll find some fascinating details about DNA profiling and some pretty darn spiffy computer work. You'll also find one of the most interesting villains you're likely to encounter, one with a background that is somehow both totally outlandish and yet totally believable. There is a lot going on in DEAD HUNT including an escaped serial killer, suspicious goings on involving Egyptian antiquities, unexplained attacks and large amounts of money that can't be explained but Ms. Connor manages to keep all the balls in the air at all times and neatly fields them all at the end of her act.

DEAD HUNT is one of the strongest entries in this series and is just different enough from it's predecessors to keep things interesting while staying true to the established characters and settings. This isn't one of those "well it's time for another book" series entries, it's original and very entertaining.

I strongly recommend all of Beverly Connor's works especially her sadly out of print Lindsey Chamberlain series (well worth scouring the used book stores for!). The only problem is that there just aren't enough of them!

The term `black widow' is sometimes used to describe a woman who has killed one or more of her husbands, usually for profit. Black widow fits Clymene O'Riley. She murdered her latest husband in the most ingenious way, and would have gotten away with it had it not been for Diane Fallon. Diane, head of the Rosewood, Georgia crime lab, forensic anthropologist, and director of the local natural history museum, found the tiny piece of evidence that convicted Clymene and sent her to prison for life. Unfortunately the brilliant Clymene doesn't intend to accept the role of lifetime inmate. She possesses a unique ability to manipulate people and an amazingly sharp intellect. She has a plan to regain her freedom and extract some revenge along the way.

Clymene isn't Diane's only current problem. An anonymous source has informed the local newspapers that her museum has knowingly purchased stolen artifacts. The rumors spread like fire and when the smoke clears, the reputation of the museum and its employees are likely to be in ruins.

Meanwhile, the board of directors engages in a political power struggle and seems willing to sacrifice Diane and her assistant to mitigate the artifact scandal. Finding the source and the motive for these rumors isn't going to be easy, but it will be vital if she hopes to save the museum and defend her reputation.

Deadly surprises wait behind every closed door. Fast paced, well thought out and wonderfully entertaining. Beverly Connor gives us another excellent mystery.

This is a great read, set a present-day thriller in the delta of California's Sacramento River. Russell gives us a powerful sense of place, confjures up a whole new breed of creey bad guys, and raises our environmental awareness without sounding like Al Gore on a bad day.

The first thing I did when I finished the book was to make a reservation for brunch at the Ryde Hotel--mentioned twice in Dead Game--so I could head out to the delta and experience again the sights, sounds and smells Russell evokes in his book.

This one's a keeper--clearly Kirk Russell's best novel yet. Among many evolutions that take place in this third story of what I hope will someday be a dozen John Marquez mysteries, we finally get the full measure of the hero himself. Yes, Marquez is a tough guy with a tender streak, a hopeful cynic--he's all these contradictions and complexities. But there's more. In this story, Marquez reveals a lot more about his fears and sense of unrealized potential, uncertainty about his capacity as a husband and father, worries about his own future, so intertwined with the Fish & Game's Special Ops Unit. In short, he reveals himself to be a lot like us.

Disclosure: as a long-time San Francisco Bay environmental advocate, I confess to a certain and unabashed bias for Russell's yarns, and Deadgame especially. He's gotten it right about the plight of the Delta sturgeon (and frankly, the whole Delta). His descriptions of the dichotomous beauty and fragility of the Delta are evocative, well-researched and compelling. Reading this book, I kept flashing back to an earlier SF Bay champion who told us of "another world there among the Bay's brackish reaches"...Jack London himself.

Bravo! Memo to Kirk Russell: send us more, and soon.

While in the midst of an undercover operation delving into the illegal capture and exploitation of California sturgeon, Fish and Game Warden receives a frantic call from Russian informant Anna Burdovsky, who tells him that two suspicious men have pulled up alongside her parked car. Trying to reassure her, he tells her to sit tight while he makes his way towards her location. The men, however, act while Marquez is in transit; the game warden listens helplessly on his cell phone as Anna is forced into their car.

Anna's apparent kidnapping and the fact that Marquez's funding runs out soon lends a new urgency to the investigation, causing the warden to push harder for answers. Marquez's actions begin to catch people's attention, including that of his target and of the FBI. Now presiding over an investigation that's threatening to spin out of his control, Marquez is forced to make some difficult and life altering decisions.

Intricate, suspenseful and engaging, Dead Game is Russell's third novel (following 2003's Shell Games and 2004's Night Game) to feature stolid ex-DEA agent John Marquez, a man whose sense of duty is only outweighed by his disdain for those who would squander the natural resources entrusted to his care-readers quickly learn to trust his steady voice, and to sympathize with it, as Russell increase the odds against his protagonist's success with each successive plot twist. Marquez and his crew strive mightily to prove equal to the task, however, making for thoroughly gripping reading.

If you have enjoyed reading the other Marquez novels you will certainly not want to miss this read. Author Russell has brought the tension level to a new level in this story. No wasted moments spent reading this book, in fact it was hard to put it down at all. If you arent familiar with the Marquez books any will stand alone but this is my personal favorite with it's sharp delivery and fast paced action.

California Fish & Game Special Operations Unit Warden John Marquez is concerned with the poaching of sturgeon in the Sacramento/San Joaquin River delta. Someone was killing the sturgeon to "extract" the eggs to make caviar and is unconcerned about collateral damage to other fish. However, Marquez does not have the manpower to stop the poachers as his unit has shrunk down to three while the criminals have gotten smarter, bigger, and more energetic, and the FBI steps in and out looking for sound byte poser cases only.

Still he tries using informants to help him catch the crooks such as former sturgeon poacher Abe Raburn who Marquez pressures into testifying against former KGB agent Nikolai Ludovna, who came to the states allegedly as a realtor, but is the caviar poaching kingpin. Abe proves uninformative perhaps out of fear of retaliation. Russian-born field guide Anna Burdovsky agrees to help, but she vanishes without a trace following a meeting with specialty food storeowner Don August, who Marquez believes sells illegal caviar. With potential problems at home, Marquez concentrates on expediting Anna from danger though he fears he is too late.

The key to this fine fish and wildlife police procedural is the different personalities that make up the sturgeon poaching crowd as readers will understand the economic motivations of poachers, sellers, storeowners, users, law enforcement officials, and informants. The story line is somewhat typical of the undermanned and under-equipped cops struggling to defeat superior forces while knowing a victory today just means a new criminal takes over the territory. DEAD GAME is a fabulous tale that entertains the audience while also educating readers with how complex the environmental-economic issues are.

Harriet Klausner

Jud Wilhite rocks! He leads Central Christian, one of the largest churches in Las Vegas. It's not easy being a Christian in Las Vegas. Jud does God's work in a city of broken people. This new book is fascinating. Truly enjoyed it. You are a good man Jud Wilhite.

This book was handed to me by a trusted warrior and teacher. The thought of radical integrity in the Christian experience is nothing new but I must admit I fear it without radical grace. This book delivers a well-balanced and visual picture of a life that draws from both experiences.

As a Christian I found this book relevant and rooted deep in the ways of the Lord. However, what intrigued me the most was the authors approach to the subject. As I read this book I could see that it transcends more than just ministry life, it jumps right into the business community as well. It's practical and applicable to teams leading organizations upward.

In my opinion this book is ready to leap into the hands of the most courageous business leaders in our community. Christian or not I can highly recommend this to anyone wishing to radically transform our communities and our companies by opening up our hearts to a lifestyle of radical integrity and grace.

A superb read and the graphics, interviews and examples are eye opening and challenging. Be prepared to think, reflect and act...it's a book in motion.

Deadly Viper is a great little book that reminds us of the things in life we should guard against and be aware of as we grow as leaders, friends, and neighbors.

Not only is this book good for the individual but would be a great study for a group or team on the verge of greatness.

This excellent little book is full of practical advice for anyone, not just leaders or christians, on the issues of character development and integrity. The authors use lots of analogies from kung fu (and hey, who doesn't love ninjas?) and real life stories to drive their points home. If you don't mind the creative, "cute" (although I hesitate to use the word cute on a book clearly written for men) format of the book (almost every page is different, lots of different pictures, colors, fonts, etc), you will love this book. Seems ideally suited (as their website points out) for group study.
Best of all? I received this book for free at Catalyst. I probably would have balked at the price if I had just seen it in a store, but after reading it, it is worth it!

This book is outstanding. I immediately was intrigued and purchased the book because of its design. The design is outstanding. Creative, fresh and always complimentary with the message...never distracting from the message.

The design alone would have made me feel that it was money well spent.

WELL

Then I began to read the book.

Mike & Jud honestly, convincingly, and cleverly draw you into their ideas, personal stories and wisdom learned from their own lives and the lives of other extrodinary leaders.

I don't write many book reviews, I figure other people will do that. But I had to take action and speak out on this book.

What can I say, another great book in the Irene Kelly series! Jan Burke once again wrote a unique and page-turning novel that I couldn't put down. Throwing in a bit of mythology made this book even more entertaining and thought-provoking. And once again, the romance between Irene and Frank is a wonderful addition to the storyline. I'm ready to read the next book.

Another riveting and intelligent mystery by Jan Burke. All of her books maintain the same quality level (excellent)! Reading her is always a pleasure. I highly recommend her to anyone who likes a really well written modern mystery.

Fiesty newspaper reporter Irene Kelly (recovering from her last adventure) starts getting cryptic letters from a serial killer whose creepy fascination with her increases with each murder. Sound familiar? Well, yes, but that doesn't make it a bad plot.

In this case the variation is classical. The letters are from Thanatos, Greek for death, and address Irene as Cassandra, the seer who's fated never to be believed until too late. Thanatos describes his victims and methods in terms of Greek and Roman mythology and taunts Irene with the possibility that if she's quick enough she might save a victim and catch the killer. And if she's not, she may be his final victim.

Burke keeps the pace moving. With ingenuity, police work and investigative skills that ring true, Irene and her fiance, police detective Frank Harriman, find a link between the victims that reaches back 40 years. Still the mystery is far from solved and people keep dying while Irene finds strange tokens from Thanatos in her locked car.

A good, suspenseful story with plenty of meat in the plot, a bang-up finish and just a little too much wise-cracking banter from Irene.

If y'all haven't read the first two books featuring Irene Kelly, fearless reporter ... well, I recommend getting & reading them soon!

In this 3rd installment, Irene is recovering from the physical and psychological injuries she incurred in "Sweet Dreams, Irene" (definitely an ironic title, I'd say!) and is trying to recover her natural (feisty) courage to deal with a new threat: someone sending her mail, calling her his "Cassandra" and giving her "hints" about future horrific murders defined/described by mythology ... implying that SHE must solve the murders to stop them.

Besides dealing with the frustrations of her physical limitations from previous injuries (leg cast, sore hand, painful shoulder), Irene must conquer the unwelcome fears her previous experiences had inflicted upon her ... and recapture the fearless curiosity that made her such a great reporter ... so she can keep more people from getting killed and bring the killer to justice.

I enjoyed "watching" Irene follow the clues (and her instincts)to investigate & solve the mystery, even while dealing with the "conflicts" of reporter vs. police (confidential questions/informers) and conflict of interest (being engaged to a detective!)*AND* trying to deal with overly sympathetic friends, family and "suspects" who want to help.

Did I say I had to read the whole book in one sitting?

Pat, looking forward to the next Irene adventure!

Irene Kelly, reporter for the Las Piernas Express and newly engaged to boyfriend, Frank Harriman, has received her share of crank mail and calls. But nothing like this. The first letter from "Thanatos" (Greek God of death) details the death of Clio (Greek Muse of history) using the hammer of Hephaestus, saying the eyes of Argus (Hera took the 100 eyes of Argus and put them in a peacocks tail) will be upon her remains. And that night, history professor Edna Blaylock, was bludgeoned to death and her body was thrown into the peacock exhibit at the zoo. Unfortunately, this is only the first letter from Thanatos. It looks like Las Piernas has a serial killer on its hands who will only communicate with Irene. No matter how fast Irene and the police solve the riddles in these mythological letters, they're always a step behind the killer. As the body count rises, Irene digs into the background of Thanatos' victims trying to find a link and a motive to these senseless murders, hoping next time, she won't be too late..... Jan Burke has done it again. Another great Irene Kelly mystery that will put you on the edge of your seat and keep you turning pages to the end. This story has it all...smart, crisp writing and witty dialogue, a terrific plot line full of twists, turns and surprises, great characters and suspenseful scenes. Ms Burke has a real talent for scaring you one moment and making you laugh out loud, the next. Dear Irene is pure entertainment and a joy to read. If you're new to the series, go back and start at the beginning with Goodnight Irene. If you're already a fan, this mystery won't disappoint.

Have you made the acquaintance of Dido Hoare? If not, I highly recommend you do so straightaway. You won't regret it. Dido is a modern young woman, newly divorced, daughter of a former academic at Oxford (who seems to have had other assorted former careers, as well) who now owns an antiquarian bookshop in London's Islington area.

Coming home late at night after having purchased a privately-owned library some eighty miles from her home, she is menaced by a white car. Eventually, however, the other driver loses interest, and Dido arrives home, nerve-wracked but otherwise unharmed.

The next day, her father, Barnabas, recovering from serious heart surgery, receives an anonymous letter, and from then on, the pace never lets up. We meet several of London's other antiquarian book dealers, plus Dido's former husband Davey. Briefly, that is, for in just a few days time, Davey and the white car fall victim to a bomb.

The police officer assigned to the bombing, Paul Grant, bids fair to becoming an important part of Dido's life, if only she can figure out why Davey had to die. What does she have that she doesn't realize she has? Neither Davey's new friend, Ilona, nor his mother, Sally, are much help either.

One clue is a book about a possible forger. Or has the forger been forged? This is a wonderfully well-written book that works on several levels. I cannot recommend it highly enough to those who enjoy truly intelligent books. How can you not love a book that includes this line "She continued to watch her drink as closely as though she were waiting for it to change colour and play the National Anthem." You won't regret the acquaintance, I promise.

Maranne MacDonald's Dido and her father are terrific characters, and the reader is happy to follow them anyplace. Especially back to Dido's really interesting antiquarian bookstore. The crimes could be more tightly developed, but MM is finding her way and you can only wish her luck. Might as well come along for the ride; the authors' characters are so good.

This first Dido Hoare mystery is the most complex of the four so far; but just as interesting and intriguing.

This novel starts when a mysterious white car follows Dido on her way back home from a book buying trip, late at night through the deserted M40 highway. Soon after Barnabas, her father, receives a mysterious postcard alluding to the incident. Next, Dido's ne'er-do-well ex-husband, Davy, turns up and tries to persuade her that she needs his help to maintain the bookstore. Then her store is burglarised. Barnabas is sure that Davy is somehow responsible for all these events but Dido refuses to consider that possibility. And then Davy's car is blown up with him in it. The police seemed stumped and cannot quite see the connection between all these events. However Dido comes to the reluctant conclusion that Davy was involved in some way. But how? And what can all this possibly mean?

This book is intriguing and complex and I think that if you have the patience to follow all twists and turns of the plot you will be more than amply rewarded. An amazing first installment of an equally amazing series.

A truly enjoyable peek into the world of antiquarian bookselling with the added extra of murder. Dido & her dad are great characters and I look forward to reading the entire series!

Well written mystery that will appeal to all mystery fans, especially those who are book collectors.