Consultants Books

I enjoyed this book immensely. Tye chronicles Bernay's life and times well. Bernay's is presented as a genius and a demon and the facts support that he was both! If you disagree, read this book; it reveals how there are no real heroes, just good/bad/indifferent PR!

Larry Tye attempts an ambitious view of Edward Bernays but falls short. While his stories are entertaining he fails to draw a connection between his ideas and the results. Frankly, I found Michael Levine's Guerilla PR Wired to be a much better and useful read.

Larry Tye takes on a subject that few journalists would regard of savory: the biography of a PR man. One might dismiss PR people as not meriting attention or even toleration. But Tye walks a fine line here because the life of Eddie Bernays has some tension and complexity, and the book makes that clear. He is a worthwhile character study, not just for people in the communications industry, but also those in business more generally, politics, or interested in consumer and opinion issues. As Freud's nephew, Bernays carried around more heritage than most, and how he shoulders that burden creates interest. Bernays also placed himself at the forefront of an industry's development, and that creates another set of issues. The book is fraught with the same conflict that many deal with in communications: are they adding egocentric bias to information, or warping it for vested powers? Lastly, Bernays had a role in helping leaders develop their visibility, but does he stand as a peer at their shoulders? Tye does a great job at making us reflect on these issues in this highly readable book.

The book is entertaining in parts and provides interesting information to someone who has no prior knowledge on Bernays. But considering the impact Bernay's ideas & work made on PR and spin and consequently the American way of life, I found the writing style to be rather flippant; and the book, as a whole, skimpy. From the research material available and the interviews which he had conducted, Tye could have written a more substantial if not a scholarly piece, irrespective of his sentiments for Bernays the person. Perhaps, that was not his intention. However, Tye did make a bold claim with his title, and I naturally expected more from his book.

Bernays is generally acknowledged as the Father of PR. But, is he also the Father of Spin?

Tye writes a fascinating biography of this key communications individual, filled with the key episodes that earned Bernays his moniker. From getting women to smoke to getting people to eat bacon, Bernays always seemed to figure out a way.

But, Tye focuses heavily on these episodes and gives short shift to the implictions and consequences of Bernays's actions beyond fattening the bottom line. While it is true Bernays could not have fully appreciated all the consequences, his relentless drive to serve his clients reveals a man who forgot that public relations means being the conduit between the public and the client, not being another salesman, no matter how clever.

If you're interested in seeing the modern fruition of Bernays's tactics, then I suggest Michael Levine's Guerilla PR: Wired, which updates Bernays's ideas into the digital age.

Overall, this book is well-worth reading if you're interested in a man's actions. But, if you're interested in seeing how a man's actions can affect the world, then you might be better off with another book.

Make no mistake: "Dummies" books are strictly for beginners, and "Consulting for Dummies" is no different. Despite their elementary approach to subject matter, the series is a wonderful introduction to many topics, including the wide world of consulting. Start here for an overview, and move on to bigger and better books after you understand the basics.

I highly recommend this book. It is so practical and will give you everything you need to get started in the consulting world, except for your experience. It is a book you will use as a reference tool again and again.

I've run into some rather useful book in the series "For Dummies" but this book almost does honor to its name! And, honestly, what could you expect from Bob Nelson, the author of the "1001 Ways..." series of books? This book is not terrible, actually, but it really doesn't go into much depth. There are better titles to assist you in your pursuit of a self-employed career in consulting (just a simple search of the term "consulting" in Amazon will list a host of them), if you want to go beyond a casual reading sitting at a Barnes and Noble or Border's store, which is what I did with this title, to draw the conclusion that I now share with you. Beginning consultants of the world: consult elsewhere is my piece of advice!

Update: One place where you could look into is "Getting Started in Consulting, Second Edition" by Alan Weiss.

As an experienced consultant, I was surprised to find the amount of useful information in this book that I did. As a "...For Dummies" book, I expected that the information would be too basic for anyone with any real experience. Certainly, the book is geared toward beginners; however, I felt that the initial client interview checklist, suggestions for creating an implemenation plan, post-implementation impact study, and information on interim and final reports were really solid (although they could/should all be addressed in more detail). My one real complaint about this book is the lack of any meaningful discussion on proposals. All professionals new to consulting should know that proposals are an important marketing tool. Sure, there are a lot of consultants who avoid writing them, but the purpose of the proposal is not only to market the current project but A CHAIN OF PROJECTS. Proposals don't have to be overly complex. In fact, 65-85% of the material can be standard boilerplate. However, when you are long gone and your presentation is all but forgotten, your proposal and final reports will likely still be around. Believe me, the proposal is a powerful marketing device (if done correctly). Unfortunately, this book provides zero insight into how to craft a winning proposal. Otherwise, this is a good little guide for new consultants. However, two far better choices would be Alan Weiss' "Million Dollar Consulting" and/or his "Getting Started in Consulting." Overall grade: B/B+

What a disappointment. After a successful 30 year career, I needed advice on how to start working for myself. I already know my field, potential customers, how to set deadlines, do the work, be organized, and what services I can sell. What I don't know is anything about working for myself, out from under the umbrella of a large corporation. What do I need to know re taxes, licenses, permits, assets, depreciation. How to incorporate, anticipate and bill for incidental expenses, anticipate other legal and business needs. Note that it is already 8 years old. Books on business have a very limited life. If you are just dreaming of what it would take to be a consultant, then buy this book. Maybe you will find the authors tips and recommendations very profound. If you are already there, don't buy this book thinking it will answer any of your immediate questions on the mechanics of consulting -- it won't.

"Pulling into the lot behind the Transition Headquarters, I was startled to see several black SUVs parked with their motors running and earnest looking men peering out the open windows - my introduction to the United States Secret Service. My first glimpse of the Secret Service agents drove home the point that I was about to embark on a journey that, if successful, would put me in close proximity to some of the most powerful and important people in the world. Great, I thought, no pressure at all."

Thus began Ron Christie's interview process for a position as a Deputy Assistant for domestic policy to Vice President-Elect Cheney. Throughout his page-turning book, Black in the White House, he weaves stories together from his three and one half year tenure in the White House that make it read more like a novel than a narrative. He provides a unique view of the Vice President, President and their respective staffs that is seldom, if ever, reported by the media. This book paints a portrait that reveals the true personalities of the leaders of the United States and the tremendous responsibilities they have.

Although sometimes sophomoric, maudlin and perhaps even pandering, Christie tells his stories as if he were a child marveling in awe at the world's leaders for whom he was asked to work instead of as a trained attorney who had important work to do. As a Deputy Policy Advisor to Senator George Allen (son of Redskin's coach Allen) for eight years, he was asked by the Republican Committee in December of 2000 to be an observer of the Presidential recount vote in Jacksonville, Florida. Shortly after flying to Florida, the Supreme Court ruled in George Bush's favor, George Bush became Presidential-Elect Bush and Ron Christie was asked to interview as a Deputy Assistant for domestic policy for Vice President-Elect Cheney.

During the waiting process after his interview, Christie candidly reveals his feelings of nervousness and uncertainty regarding his appointment. Waiting for the phone to ring, not sleeping at night, unable to think lucidly, he is no more than an average person waiting to hear the decision about their interview. Throughout the book he demonstrates his role as a normal person who is honored to serve the Vice President, President and his country by easily blending his responsibilities with his humbleness. He also makes it clear that the principals of President Bush's transition team (who would later become the cabinet and advisors after the inauguration) are extremely intelligent individuals who espouse a tremendous work ethnic in serving the Vice-President and President. Concurrently he also divulges their human and compassionate sides that few are privileged to see.

Christie worked intimately with Vice President Cheney's staff including Chief of Staff Scooter Libby, Dan McGrath, Mary Matalin and even Vice President Cheney himself. He tells tales of their dedication, character and wit. In one instance Christie was asked to attend a meeting with Vice President Cheney and noted historian Stephen Ambrose, who

was attempting to restore the Missouri River to resemble its appearance in time to celebrate the bicentennial of Lewis and Clark's expedition. Ambrose indicated that his plan to dam the river was supported in Missouri and in several states downstream. Christie knew that Ambrose's assertion was erroneous and the Vice President, always with razor sharp perception, realized that Christie was uncomfortable and asked him if he had any questions. Christie questioned Ambrose why the Missouri House of Representatives voted 138-0 to denounce the plans and why Governor Bob Holden joined several other governors to write a letter to President Bush voicing their opposition. Not accustomed to being questioned, Ambrose probably expected VP Cheney to chastise Christie. Instead, Cheney asked Christie to draft a letter to Ambrose in which the VP would "express his inability to advocate Ambrose' plan to President Bush".

September 11, 2001 was a day that most Americans will never forget. For Christie and the White House staff it was a day of horror. Not only was the horror expressed for the victims in the World Trade Center and the Pentagon but it also extended to the White House staff that was literally in the direct line of fire. After it was clear that the crashes were an attack and not an accident, the White House staff was immediately escorted out of the building by the Secret Service and told to leave. Unfortunately most of them could not return to their homes since Washington was in pandemonium and all roads were completely blocked; many stayed at friends within the city. Two days later when it was safe to enter the White House the horror was repeated when they again had to be evacuated, this time due to a bomb scare. In essence, the security and comfort that was indicative of the White House had been indelibly shattered. Although terrified to return to the White House, the staff was reminded by Andy Card that they represented the President and now was the time to fight back by going about their business and not being intimidated by fear. Indeed, the urgency at hand changed the course of President Bush's presidency. Christie relates how difficult it was for all the members of the White House to continue to run the country.

In early 2002 Christie was asked to be the Special Assistant to the President to help run the USA Freedom Corps. Although honored to work directly for the President, Christie was torn by the thought of accepting the offer due to his loyalty to Vice President Cheney and also to his aversion of governmental programs, particularly those initiated by former President Clinton. However, after numerous discussions with the staffs of both the Vice President and the President, he learned that the President was a genuine supporter of the volunteerism movement in America after 9/11 and wanted to capitalize on the spirit running through the country during that time. He therefore accepted the commission. Thus began his association with the President of the United States. From Christie's vantage point, in opposition to the media, he saw the President as the leader of staff meetings who utilized the expertise of his cabinet, including the Vice President, for advice. The bottom line was that President Bush was the man in charge of the White House, not Vice President Cheney or anyone else. Period.




Christie did not turn his back on his black heritage and in fact almost resigned due to an incident by Mississippi Senator Trent Lott during Thanksgiving in 2002. While Christie was at his brother's home, Senator Lott was featured on CNN at Senator Strom Thurmond's one-hundredth birthday party. Lott was recalling Thurmond's unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 1948 and lamented that Mississippi, which was opposed to integration, was only one of four states that supported him. Lott went on to say, "We're proud of it. And if the rest of the country followed our lead, we wouldn't have had all these problems over all these years, either". Christie and his family were stunned. During the next few days in which the White House said nothing, Christie's parents asked him how could he work at the White House for a man who had refused to repudiate Lott's statement. Christie, wrestling with his admiration for President Bush and his agenda, could not sit by silently. Knowing it could cost him his job, he wrote a note to Andy Card expressing his dismay that the comment was not rebuked by the White House. Card, the Chief of Staff to President Bush and known in the White House for both his intense intelligence and hilarious practical jokes, invited Christie to a private meeting to discuss the relationship between blacks and the Republican Party. When asked to present his thoughts, Christie proposed that Republicans "should not be traveling to black neighborhoods and talking about crime, welfare reform and drugs" but should talk about "tax reform, school choice and home ownership". Rather that "bringing in the gospel choir to sing and sway in the East Wing during Black History month can't we do more than pander to those folks who then start criticizing us the second they leave the building"? Christie suggested that the President "should visit with small business leaders, doctors and investors who support his vision and happen to be black". Andy Card, displaying his honesty and sincerity, became an active participant and devoted significant amounts of his time to find ways in which the President's agenda could resonate with those who were skeptical about his policies.

Black in the White House made me feel that I was actually observing the leaders of the country on a personal level without the critical remonstrations of the media promoting their anti-Bush rhetoric. I was able to see, through Christie's eyes, the leaders in President Bush's cabinet as thoughtful, intelligent and sincere individuals who are honored to spend a few years of their lives dedicated to the President and the country. Although not intended to be an historical document, the book represents a view of the White House and the Presidency that is seldom revealed. It was refreshing to observe the White House from the perspective of someone who loves to be there rather than from someone who is there to condemn it.

This book is one of my favorites. Ron Christie's persective of the White House workings kept my attention from cover to cover. I have to tell you...his thoughts on some things made me laugh out loud and others made me cry. Thank you for the book Mr. Christie--and you are definitely not a "wart on history's nose". :-)

I suppose that if you are a guileless, hard-core reactionary, then you'll really love Ron Christie's no-fault treatise on everything good about W's Whitehouse.

While I am an AA (African-American) with moderate political views, there is something simultaneously self-satisfied and self-hating about Mr. Christie's over-the-top conservative tome in which he anecdotes countless situations in which he is the only person of color in the room (one would not count Conde Rice). Here he finds few faults with the Bush administration while describing his Horatio Algers' climb to middle management in the Republican Guard.

He breathlessly reports of his adventures in becoming one of the youngest African Americans to navigate his way into the echelons of republican politics, without any self-acknowledgment that he may, in fact, just be a "token".

I'd say it was an interesting read if you want to understand how the Republican Party simultaneously manages to find no real value in diversity, while exploiting - in a nominal way - the value of having a symbolic representative.

This is a smug account of his interactions with politicos in the West Wing and it reads like a report on "What I Did Over my Summer Vacation".

I read Ron Christie's new book as I was looking to find some insight into how the Bush White House works. Having seen the author on a number of tv programs he comes across as earnest, forthright and dedicated to the conservative cause. Unfortunately, he hasn't been in the top echelon of decision-making to warrant a good book. It's too low-level.

I wish Mr. Christie well.....there's nothing more in his book that we already know, would care to know or will find out sooner or later.

If you are looking for the proverbial "fly on the wall" perspective of the White House, this might fit the bill nicely. Christie gives a very...accessible account of what it's like to work for the President. Unfortunately, Christie's experiences (as he presents them anyway) come across as though he had about as much impact on meaningful policy as a real fly on the wall. Certain passages made me cringe as the author described being nearly paralyzed with awe every time he met high profile people for the first time.

I surely hope this was an editing error that slipped through but on page 233 Christie describes Karl Rove as being "thought by many to be the most powerful man in the White House other than the VP". If that was supposed to be a dig at Bush it's pretty unbecoming considering the way Christie fawns over W through the rest of the book. I STRONGLY suspect a junior proof-reader at publisher Nelson Current let her political views enter into her work and introduced the error as a prank. Pretty funny.

I wouldn't recommend this for those learning about politics, government and the executive branch either. It is too lean on how various departments and individuals work together to implement policy. Also lacking is any insight on how one gets to such a position.

I found this really interesting to read; however, many of the answers seemed not enough. Filled my head with lots of useless trivia none the less.

This book is a lot of fun and it is possible to actually have some thing in it tat you did not know. However the statements or answers are limited in scope requiring you to do further research to flesh out the answer. The answers are given by contributors, not Davis Feldman. So we must rely of the credibility of the contributor. Again because of the limited answer the contributor does not feel compelled to back you the reason for the statement.

How ever for a quickie answer to questions you might not have asked such as "Why does Coca-Cola from a small bottle taste better than Coca-Cola from a large bottle or can?" this book is fun.

A more appropriate question "When did Coca-Cola substitute corn syrup for sugar and why?" Maybe in the next book

This book was pure pleasure reading. I finished the whole thing in a few hours. Great questions, with clear, easy-to-udnerstand answers. I'd love to read other books by the same author.

The Imponderables book series by David Feldman is the pinnacle of interesting and useful bathroom reading! Since the beginning of the series, Feldman has been highlighting questions that we didn't even know we had (like exactly why is it that a mile is 5,280 feet? and where is Donald Duck's brother?) then he finds "the experts" on any given subject to answer the question. At the end of each question and answer, you are left with a little better insight into the world around you (and you can go out and impress your friends with an expanded catalog of obscure anecdotes).

These books are fantastic overall. They are one part almanac, one part encyclopedia and one part a book form of the show Mythbusters. Many of the questions Feldman seeks the answers to are sent to him by his many readers who want to know about these little-known facts (like why there are 18 holes in a golf course and why tennis balls are fuzzy). Okay, these may not be the most important questions in the world, but these are the things we take for granted in everyday life that we normally don't take the time to stop and think (why is that little finger on our hands called the pinky?).

Feldman has been answering these questions since the first Imponderables in 1986. He has a masters degree in popular culture from Bowling Green State University in Ohio and taught to first ever college course on Soap Operas. If you enjoy trivia, David Feldman is the man for you. He uncovers the hidden meanings and lost history of sports, food, words, science, politics, and everything in between, often in a humorous and insightful way.

So where did Oreos get their name?
What is the difference between Dead End signs and No Outlet signs?
Why does the letter K mean Strike Out in baseball?

You'll have to read the books to find out.

A funny little book, filled with trivia information that will show you how to live a happier and more balanced life.....For instance, you will never again have to go to the psychiatrist to discuss your frustration, about your inability to understand things like: Why have humans lost most of their body hair? Why are hamburger bun-bun bottoms so thin? Why do doughnuts have holes? For a relatively small sum, you will get rid of tranquillizers, since you will not awake anymore in the middle of the night, wondering about: Why don't people get goosebumps on their faces? Why are there eighteen holes on a golf course? What happens with the tread that wears off tires?
Last but not least, this fact filled book, will enable you to settle all those boring, but potentially dangerous arguments with your couple about delicate issues such as: Does putting women's hosiery in the freezer forestall runs? What purpose do wisdom teeth serve? Why does Coca-Cola from a small bottle taste better than Coca-Cola from a large bottle or can?
So, rush now, if you really want to know why clocks run clockwise.Or not, if you have other, existencialistic (real), problems......

Great book and great writer! Love to read all her books. They are
hard to put down and hate for the book to end. This book ties in with
other characters in her other books, like a serial, which is neat so you get to know all the characters. This book has Maggie and Rob trying to prove that Nicholas Janssen is an international killer and fall in love along the way. The suspense holds your attention right up to the very end.

I reviewed "Night's Landing" in which I stressed the importance of reading this series of novels in order. Just in case you didn't read that one, here it is once again. The Winter family series begins with "On the Edge", a short story comprised with two other author's stories. The next book is a full length novel entitled "Cold Ridge" Then comes "Night's Landing", "The Rapids" and "Dark Sky" Reading any of these books alone or out of order is not worth your time or money. It can get a bit confusing, because there are many other novels that were written in between or that is listed out of order. These are the important ones you'll need to read to follow along with the on going plot.

"The Rapids" was a fast read that I read immediately following "Night's Landing" which made it easy to follow what was happening. If I had read this book before any of the others, I would imagine my opinion of the series would be much worse. It is not the best in the series by far, but since "Night's Landing" leaves you hanging a bit, it is good to have a wrap up to at least that book. Unfortunately, this one leaves you hanging for "Dark Sky"

There are no clever twists or turns, no surprise ending and no mystery to unravel. It is simply an average romantic suspense novel.

Is it worth buying?
Only as part of the series. Otherwise, this book falls a bit short as far as my favorites go. If you do decide to buy it, look for it on sale and make sure you have all the books in the series so you don't have to wait to find out what happens next.

U.S. Diplomatic Security Agent Maggie Spencer receives an e-mail from an unknown addressee. One of the US' most wanted Nicholas Janssen can be caught if Maggie can get there soon enough. She has her doubts, but Maggie goes to the rendezvous point anyway, and makes the arrest.

U.S. Marshal Rob Dunnemore finds Maggie to learn more about the anonymous tip she received as the man she arrested almost killed him and several other agents in an ambush a few months ago. During his visit a diplomat is murdered, and Maggie and Rob join forces.

This is a novel written as only Carla Neggers could do. It is intense to say the least. It is a fast paced novel that starts rather quickly and never slows down until the dramatic conclusion. Mrs. Neggars' likeable characters struggle with the task of coping with their personals lives and trying to keep them seperate from work in a way any reader can relate to. Her characters exhibit extrodinary personsalitites we all wish we had while being able to do a difficult job. She is an amazing writer and her talents are obvious in this novel. A must read!

I'm part way into this book, I have about 200 pages left, and I'm already confused. For instance how is everyone in the little unheard of community of Ravenkill right up with the happenings in The Hague? Does world wide news reach little burgs that fast. And what was with Andrew Franconia the innkeeper that he calls the US Marshalls as soon as Maggie registers? I don't get it, everyone seems to know what everyone else is doing faster than they can move about. So I guess I'll have to finish the story to find all the answers if they are revealed.

This was my first Carla Neggers read. I was surfing through on-line reviews (which I am very big on) and came across a recommendation for Dark Sky by Carla Neggers. As I'd never heard of her, I did some more digging and came upon nothing but accolades for the author. So I ran out and purchased Dark Sky and began reading. Before I got too far into the book, I figured out that there was another book that preceded it, and thought I'd be less confused if I stopped and read that one first.

So, obviously I did, and was totaly dissapointed. HORRIBLE. But I did FORCE myself to finish it through shear determination. The writing didn't flow well. There were a lot of errors in my copy, which got under my skin, but might not have if the book had been better. The plot and charachters (not to mention their actions-especially of the inn owners) were unconvincing. There was no build up. The suspense was flat. No chemistry between Rob and Maggie. I MEAN NONE. But yeah, they had sex. But we expect that. GIVE ME STEAM. I want some CHEMISTRY. The only redeaming quality about this book was the interation between Juliet and Ethan. They get the one star. If not for them I would probably never read one of this authors books again. For my interest in them, I'll read Dark Sky. The word "wanderlust" was used ad nauseum. Surely she could have come up with another word or description. Borrow if you must, but don't by. Better yet call me, and you can have my copy.

I am majorly disappointed with this book. I was really shopping around for Case In Point / Vault Guide to Case Interview, but since those books aren't carried by my local bookstore and I need that quickly, I end up choosing this as it has an electronic version. It's no good. FULL STOP. It's like a random summary of a MBA courses, Porter's five forces etc.. But I don't think this book is helping with dealing with case interview at all, rather it's confusing the candidate especially for those non-MBA students who didn't know about those infamous business framework. It's giving them a incomplete and useful illustrations. Disappointed...

I gave a quick read of this. Not sure how to rate it. Motherhood and apple pie. Nothing earth shattering. Basics repeated. Prepare, dont loose cool, practise makes perfect. Now that's the secret sauce for a sucessful case interview according to the book.

This guide provides some very useful case examples and takes some of the mystery out of case interviews! I would definitely recommend this!

I came across WetFeet for the first time in MBA school -- they impressed me back then with their very practice and to the point approach! This book is no exception!

It is very short (100 pages) and well organized (Getting started; successful networking; the interview process; interviewing at your best; gettgin the best offer).

The book does not cover resume writing and cover letter writing, which I consider one of its strengths (so many other resources are available on the subject).

The real strength of the book is in it practical guidence to specific steps that can be taken in the interpersonal (netwroking, interviewing) aspects of a job search. Recommended read for all career activists!

Definitely worth the money. I bought this one as well as Ace II (just heard there's now an Ace III), and used it to prepare for my consulting interviews. No matter what case got thrown at me, I kept my wits about me since i'd seen it all before while working through the WF guides. And now I'm going to work for one of my top picks in consulting. woohoo!

The author substituted Elvis trivia for character development and made EVERY major character spout said trivia at the drop of a hat. Maybe having one avid fan pop in with some tidbits now and again would have been bearable, but this felt almost like a lecture with a few murders thrown in. The lack of susbtance shows.

I've read all the Louie mysteries up through this one (awaiting my copy of "Kiwi Con") and this one was, as another reader said, much more of a chore to finish than the others.

IMO, all the Elvis trivia and the sheer amount of time spent on the Elvis con/competition/hotel opening was filler for what was a thin plot to begin with. I normally enjoy spending a few hours with Temple, Louie, Matt, et al, but this time there was none of the internal dialogue or the conversations that really make each of these people "spark". Temple seemed to be there just to help move point A to point B or ask the pertinent question that would let the Elvis information pour forth. Matt was much too one note; his sole purpose seemed to be to show up, wonder about being a local media star for a few moments and then disappear again. It was like reading a book where all the main characters were reduced to cameo appearances by an unwieldy, boring plot that forced its way to center stage like a 300 pound diva.

One of the things I've really enjoyed about the series is the way Douglas lets us into Matt's, Temple's and C.R. Molina's minds. It makes them much more well-rounded as characters and I feel I "know" them. This book was incredibly short on that aspect as compared to the other novels in the series.

I'm also very tired of Max/Matt/Temple triangle. I suppose the main reason is I don't care for the Mundane Max very much. I find him more a convenient plot point than anything else. Need something that might be a little extralegal? Max shows up! Need to remind everyone there's a romantic triangle? Max pops up out of nowhere! *yawn* I find him to be the weakest character in the series because I have very little to base him on in my mind. I don't know whether it's Douglas' intention to make him appear mysterious or what, but one or two glimpses into what Max is thinking other than "Kinsella thought that he had the upper hand" type stuff or appearing to be jealous when Temple seems to have Matt foremost on the mind would go a long way towards filling him out as a character and making him seem more like a real person than simply someone invented for those times when you need someone with extralegal access to the info needed to move the plot along. The background she gives him doesn't ring very true to me for several reasons too long to go into here. I will say that it just ended up feeling like another smokescreen. I generally end up skimming the Max chapters for the necessary info and then jumping back into the story.

All in all, I enjoy the Louie series immensely. They may not be entirely logical at times or gritty and real, but they're (for the most part) well-written, fun, full of people with very individual voices (including Louie), and I think Douglas has done a fantastic job with the character of Matt and showing what it might be like for someone to try and become part of a world that he never really knew. But after such great previous novels, I found "Cat in a Jeweled Jumpsuit" to be below the standard of the other Louie books.

I have read all the books in the Midnite Louie series, and this one was definitely my least favorite. Maybe because I was never an Elvis fan, but I just didn't find all the Elvis trivia and impersonator stuff interesting. Like several other readers, finishing the book was a chore, not really a pleasure like usual. I hope the next book gets back on track.

Great book for Louie lovers & Elvis fans. And for those who aren't Elvis fans or too young, there's something to be learned. Another fun adventure for Louie, Temple & you.

I returned home from a recent trip to Memphis, where we toured Graceland, to find "Cat in a Jeweled Jumpsuit" in the mail awaiting my arrival. The coincidence was amazing. Finished reading it last night and think it is one of the best books I have ever read. The author's thought process gets deeper with each book and her exploration of the never-ending Elvis mystique casts an accurate eye on the sociology of the 50's and 60's and the perception of those times having been so innocent. Having been a teenager in the 1950's, I could also totally relate to the Electra character. The author's use of words gets cleverer and funnier with each book. As with any "whodunit," you have to keep reading to find out who was the perp, but you finish the book with sadness because there will be no more show-stoppers on each page. Thank you, Carole, so much for Temple and Louie and Chatter and all the rest of them!

After completing a series of interviews where I'm pretty sure I crashed and burned, I decided I needed some professional help. The overview drew me in immediately by describing a typical nerve-wracked interview candidate anticipating an interview "train wreck." That's me! I thought. This guide provided a thorough description of the case interview, from beginning to end, with a lot of examples. I feel much more prepared for my next round of interviews, now that I understand the process. Now I can go into my interviews as a raging bull, instead of a scared rabbit. I STRONGLY recommend this guide to everyone facing the dreaded case interview. Good luck!

I thought ace your case was a practical guide and helps relax you a little for your interview. Also try the Vault Guide to the Case Interview and the harvard guide to consulting. Good luck.

This guide has several good frameworks for attacking a case interview and some good examples. Also recommended: The Vault Guide to the Case Interview and the Vault Guide to the Top 50 Consulting Firms.

After completing a series of interviews where I'm pretty sure I crashed and burned, I decided I needed some professional help. The overview drew me in immediately by describing a typical nerve-wracked interview candidate anticipating an interview "train wreck." That's me! I thought. This guide provided a thorough description of the case interview, from beginning to end, with a lot of examples. I feel much more prepared for my next round of interviews, now that I understand the process. Now I can go into my interviews as a raging bull, instead of a scared rabbit. I STRONGLY recommend this guide to everyone facing the dreaded case interview. Good luck!

I found this report was disappointing and out of date. A more useful report on case interviews is the Vault.com 2002 Guide to the Case Interview or the harvard guide to consulting.

I personal like all Diana Palmers books. Even though some of them are almost alike, I still read them.I have most of her books published under the Palmer name.
I trade books with three friends and we all enjoy Palmer.
After Midnight is very very good.

Back cover reads:
A POWERFUL MAN CAN MAKE A WOMAN STRONGER...
OR BREAK HER HEART.
Nicole Seymour had lost at love before--a first marriage that was such a fiasco she never even had a proper wedding night. The Kane Lombard strolled down a South Carolina beach and into her heart. Here their pasts seemed very far away, and all that mattered was discovering was how much they cared for each other. But both were keeping secrets. "Beach bum" Kane was actually a wealthy Houston oil man, whose family owned the tabloid newspaper that was digging up dirt of Nikki's U.S. Congressman brother. Nikki, the laughing, innocent woman of Kane's dreams, was really the elegant, glittering Charleston socialite sister of his bitterest enemy. All too soon lies and political intrigue made them angry opponents. Their passion would become a two edged sword-a hunger that brought them together and a searing pain that drove them apart. And Nikki Seymour would become a woman in love with the one man she should never trust.

I think this book was originally written under DP's other pen name, Susan Kyle. (SPOILER ALERT!!) Typical to DP's books, the heroine is a virgin (even though she has been married in the past) and the hero is older and more experienced. It is a great story about love overcoming some pretty big obstacles. I highly recommend this one as well.

The plot was ok but Ms. Palmer nees to look at a map if she's never been to the area she is writitng about. They were going to take the jet from Charleston to Seabrook Island? Ummmm you can drive to the island itself in about 15-20 minutes from downtown Charleston. It would take you 30 minutes to get to an airport that would be completely out of the way.

Pakmer's books usaly don't have to much depth so I usaly don;t consider them among my favoirt books. But I do enjoy her plots and they are easy reads so I won't deny reading them. After Midnight though is just my kind of book, so despite there nt being that pull on my emotions I still can honestly say it is among my favoits. I am reffering though to the original, not the new reprint. And there is a huge difference.

Clayton Seymor's sister meets and falls for a man she met on her island get away and she is not all to excited about this because he happens to be her brothers biggest enemy.

Nicki Seymor knows that Kane Lambord is Clay's foe, the man who is funding his opponents bid for congress and whos father owners a tabloid that could expose the scandelous marriage between his sister and his political ally. But Kane does not know Niki is Clay's sister. Its the whole forbiden love thing, meets her brother is destroying him, and yet he still loves her and everyone thinks they should hate each othet but they don't.

But beware, the second version of the story is absolutly horrible. Clay and Niki and Cortez are pretty much the same charectors in both, but in the newer one Palmer turned Kane into a total jerk and so there realy is more reason to dislike him than anything. The relationship between he and Niki consistes of three enconters on the island before he decideds to try and seduce her and a realy creepy situation in his bed while she's sick. I read this first and because of the teaser in the begining of the book, which gives a scene that is not in the book, I decided that I had to read the origianl because as bad as the second book was I felt like there was obviously a lot a stuff changed, and in fact there was. If you've already read the second one and thought Kane was a jerk you'll think he's much better origialy, he does not push her to be his mistress and he legitamatly shows normal feelings for her, plus he doesn't go so far when she's sick, and she's also not as sick and weak. Of you can't find the now out pf print version try the newer one and pretend he's not so bad.

I love the Bombshell line and Michele Hauf is one of my favorite authors!

The premise is good. When Rachel Anderson was a teenager on the run from the last of several foster homes she's been in since her parents left her an orphan when she meets with Christian who whisks her off to France and a new life. There he moulds her into a thief, a thief under his control. However she takes an opportunity to escape and tries to find her own life. Using the skills he trained for as a security consultant.

Then a job goes wrong and brings her back to France following a jewel. Then she finds out that she never was really independent of Christian. Who can she trust and can he master her again?

Although it's an interesting premise it just didn't flow for me, I kept being jarred out of the story and my eyebrow spent a fair amount of time near my hairline as one more unbelievable thing happened. While I've given it a 3* rating it's a low three stars, readable but not great.

This is probably one of the most unusual romance books I've ever read and I mean that in a good way. You won't find a virginal and innocent heroine within these pages. And you won't find an honest and selfless hero ready to sweep her off her feet. What you will find is an unusual woman named Rachel. At the age of 14, Rachel ran away from her last of many foster homes toward what she believed was her savior. Instead, Christian Lazar took away any remnants of her childhood, any joy, any pleasure out of life and turned her into a deadly weapon, an expert thief, or a machine as he called her.

Ten years later, Rachel finally jumps at a desperate chance to escape and creates a new life for herself in the U.S. She lives in relative solitude, learning how to live her life away from the man she had loved and hated for years. While working as a security expert for a museum, an expensive ruby is stolen and Rachel chases after the thief before she herself is blamed for its loss and her new life is ruined. While struggling to recover the ruby, Rachel must confront Lazar and reclaim some sort of peace for her life. In a moment of desperation, she turns to the only man she has ever kissed, a master thief named Jason. For Rachel, any intimacy is new after a childhood where sex was a tool and love was a prison. They've both lived hard lives and their romance isn't cute or funny. It's a fascinating struggle between two seemingly tough but vulnerable people whose feelings for the other run very deep.

Once a Thief certainly isn't your typical romance. It's better.

Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

*Note: this review is of the audio download version, but except for one paragraph, can pertain to any version.*

A life of crime has prepared Rachel Blu for all possibilities, except one... being framed for a crime she did not commit. How is a girl to get through it when she's not sure who to trust?

Rachel Blu Anderson has escaped the thief's world, yet it provided her with talents unique in her chosen field of... security expert? She helps people assess their security systems by breaking in to find their weak spots. She is on a job for a Midwest museum when she actually interrupts a real burglary in action. Now she is chasing a thief across the ocean to France to regain the multimillion dollar ruby she was supposed to prevent being stolen!

Her arrival in France throws her right back in to the clutches of the one man she thought she had escaped... and presumed to be dead! Christian Lazar is a mastermind, who was once Rachel's partner, teacher, lover. He had trained her to be a ruthless machine, a cunning thief, using all manner of methods to train her, some which were torturous. Thrown back in to the life she detested, her only chance to regain the priceless gem, clear her name, and escape Christian once more is to turn the tables on him, and prove that now she is the master!

Michele Hauf has written a tense thriller with Once a Thief. The action is non stop throughout the entire novel, providing many taut, suspense-filled moments. We are given a glimpse in to a society many of us can't even begin to imagine, as secrets are revealed about the tight-knit yet highly competitive ring of thieves where members will guard others with their lives, only to turn around and stab them in the back the next moment. Rachel's shock at learning about "The Network" sets the precedent for more stories to follow about this intriguing but dangerous world.

This novel is by no means easily classified as a romance, though it does have some leanings in that direction by the end of the story. Rachel is one tough broad without being a bitch, who can seduce the unwary with one move or dish out a beating one won't soon forget. On the flip side, these very same things can happen to her, and do, more than once. She may pack a healthy punch, but she receives far more than her share in some fast paced fight scenes. Sydney Bristow move over, Rachel Blu is on the job.

I've never listened to an audio book performed by Debbie Irwin before, so was pleasantly surprised at her skill. She has the coveted talent of story-telling down to an art. She knows just when to draw out the lines for maximum shock value and when to speed them up to match the hurtling pace of the action she's portraying with her voice. There was never any doubt as to who was speaking when, for Debbie Irwin makes each character distinct enough to follow along, even when several are involved in one scene. I look forward to listening to more narrations she's performed.

In short, whether reading for yourself, or following along with the narrator, Once a Thief is full of pulse pounding adventure sure to get the adrenalin pumping and leave readers eager for more exciting tales from author Michele Hauf.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, June 2006. All rights reserved.

I usually like these sort of stories.. Kick butt female hero confronts the world. But I confess Rachel Blu left me cold. As a heroine I just had no empathy for her. I know she was raised to be an uber-thief, have no emotions, be self-sufficient etc. But somehow all this training left me with a heroine I just didn't care about. Likewise I'm not a big fan of stories involving thievery an occupation. Perhaps if Blu had been several years into her new career and developed some humanity I could be interested in her. But, her lack of emotional development, actual age, and inexperience in human relations made her sexual encounters uninteresting and virginal.

I do think Hauf's writing is technically quite good. She does a great job with description and plot... But her characters seem to be emotionless mannequins, of the James Bond variety.

2 Stars.