Zebras Books

I love this book! When I read Eve Silver's first book, I was thrilled to find a "gothic" type story with spice. Each successive book of hers has gotten better, and she's now an automatic buy for me. The plot has been described in other reviews, so I'll just say that the story definitely holds your interest, the romance is very satisfying, and there are some very emotional scenes. I LIKED the hero and heroine. (That is SO important.) And the damaged child tugged at my heart. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and can't wait for her next one!

In 1828 Yorkshire, impoverished Elizabeth "Beth" Canham arrives at a remote site awaiting the coach to take her to Burndale Academy where she is the new teacher. Griffin Fairfax offers her a ride although he admits he is not from the academy. She accepts. In front of Beth at the academy he asks a servant if she (not the servant) will come to him; the servant says she refused. Upset he leaves abruptly for his nearby home at Wickham Hall; while Beth ponders her attraction to him. Griffin is upset that Isobel would not come with him. His housekeeper tells him her niece Sarah is missing and assumed murdered by the serial killer who is stalking the area. Griffin thinks back to his late wife Amelia.

Beth senses that someone evil is watching her. It reminds her of her youth when she feared so much. She fears the dark and small closed spaces, but tries to hide it. She sees Griffin and tells him to go play with his daughter, but he refuses as he says she blames him for her mother's death. Griffin is attracted to Beth not just because she is pretty, but because he feels she knows his soul and still wants him though he believes he is unworthy of her and asks if she heard of the rumors that he killed his wife. Soon she will know all the answers, but may not live long to tell anyone else like the father and daughter she loves.

The serial killer subplot is cleverly designed so that the hero looks guilty and ties everything together while the romance between the lead couple is fun to follow. Historical romantic suspense readers who like a gothic feel to their tales will enjoy Eve Silver's fine late Regency.

Harriet Klausner

It's been a long time since I've picked up a Gothic and with the paranormal load I've been hefting lately, it was a refreshing read, yet not too off the dark and deadly path from said paranormals. In that I mean the ill wind/foreboding tone that unfurls from the moment this book starts. It was great! This author knows how to set an eerie mood and keep a reader in suspense. And bonus, it came with some of the most hauntingly beautiful prose I've read in a while too.

In Yorkshire, at the Burndale school for young girls, residents are menaced by an unseen evil, one that sets its sights on the pretty teachers there. A series of murders has haunted them and it's this unwelcoming atmosphere that heralds Elizabeth Canham's arrival. Set to take a teaching position herself, she feels the not-quite-right air about the school. More importantly, she endeavors to contain the memories it rouses, of a time of pain and fear. Even as she struggles to control the ghosts of her past, they're coming to life again, right before her very eyes.

Griffin Fairfax can't help but be fascinated by the woman that is somehow able to get through to his troubled daughter. Elizabeth has no doubt been through something terrible herself, yet he admires her quiet fortitude and haunted strength. When more murders crop up, his disreputable younger days come back to haunt him. He can see the new young miss is wary of him, as she should be. For Griffin is a terrible man, capable of dire things and culpable in so many ways. The most terrible of all, that for which he can never forgive himself has even torn a chasm between him and his daughter. There's something in her new teacher though, something that gives him hope...and a desire he cannot deny.

His Wicked Sins drew me right in from the very first page, as we travel with Elizabeth, or Beth as she's called for most of the book, on her way to her new life as a teacher. Beth has within herself an innate sense of self, though it is somewhat buried too beneath those memories that haunt her. It's almost as if we're getting to watch that sense of self unfold and blossom into a spirited and strong young woman. Her past has made her observant and careful, instilled within her traits that will actually save her in the long run. It wasn't hard at all for me to admire her for her compassion with Griffin's daughter, Isobel, or for her determination to make her own opinions about him rather than relying on rumor. His was a woman I could very well see all the things within that Griffin does.

Griffin himself is not without his secrets and silent self-condemnations. In fact, I loved and loved how he's drawn out as this unapologetically depraved man, seemingly capable of horrible misdeeds and travesties. Granted, a lot of the rumors about him are encouraged by his mocking silence whenever the subject is brought up, but Griffin's reasons aren't without merit; he truly feels responsible for the very things these rumors accuse him of. Throw in the strained relationship with his daughter and the man is someone I felt immense sympathy for, yet at the same time wondering if I was sympathizing with a murderer. I simply did not know and loved the on my toes reading this book had me in.

When together, he and Beth make for a scorching pair. There's some really excellent sexual tension in this book, and Griffin's shadowed exterior only adds to it:

"With actions instinctive and swift, he drew her wrist up, breathed deep. She gasped and twitched but did not pull away.
Pressing his mouth to the soft skin on the inside, he ran his tongue along the crease, tasting her. So sweet. Christ, so sweet.
She froze, trembling in her place. He could feel the pulse at her wrist, pounding wildly.
'Mr. Fairfax,' she whispered. 'You overstep the bounds of polite company.'
Without raising his head, he cut her a glance through his lashes and swirled his tongue over her skin, a luscious taste of her, before offering his reply against her skin.
'Yes, I do overstep. You see, I have little care for the bounds of polite company. Make no mistake about the sort of man I am, Ms. Canham.'"

I'd reveal a bit more following that passage, but this book deserves to be savored slowly and by the individual reader. But you can see quite clearly that Griffin sees himself as a villain. It's nuances, some subtle, others not so much, like this one, that lend a foreboding air to him as well as other characters and the overall plot till I wasn't sure where Griffin's loyalties resided, not till a certain point at least. He was, of course, too sensual for even this reader to resist.

What really tickled my reading fancy though was how the plot is woven throughout so seamlessly. We're treated to flashbacks by another character, ones that tie directly into the current murders at Burndale, and also the inner musings of a truly sick individual, our resident murderer, who really could be any number of characters populating the book. Combined with the inner circle of mystery surrounding Beth and Griffin's relationship, I felt quite kept on my toes and was actually delighted to be surprised who the killer was.

The writing itself is superb. I found myself rereading certain bits and pieces, not because I couldn't understand them, but because they were truly beautiful to read. Even scenes of gruesome malice were so mesmerizing; I couldn't book the book down when I darn well needed to be doing other things. The pacing was good, not too fast, not too slow and the plot was solid. There are no unanswered questions (though I did wonder why the village residents never really questioned the murders very hard) and towards the end, things begin to tie together in such a way that I was able to recall almost instantly where the seeds were originally planted earlier throughout the book. This was one book that I fully enjoyed for everything it offered. While I didn't care for how easily the murderer is taken care of and his part resolved, there was so much to love about this book that it didn't much matter at the end. I will definitely be checking out more of this author's historical work. Four and a half stars. Based on an Advance Review Copy.

Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

Elizabeth Canham desperately needs her new job as a teacher at the Yorkshire boarding school Burndale Academy. Her family desperately needs the income this job will provide. When rumors abound about a serial killer who targets blonde haired woman killed two teachers at the Academy, old fears that have plagued Elizabeth her entire life coming rushing to the forefront ever more frequently. Is it just nerves or does she really have cause to be alarmed?

Griffin Fairfax is a mysterious man who has his own shadows following him. His young daughter, Isobel, is one of Elizabeth's pupils. The child has not spoken a word since her mother died a few years back and Griffin is overwhelmed with guilt over what happened to his late wife. Isobel gives Griffin a reason to come calling at Burndale Academy frequently, but when he meets Elizabeth, he can't help but be drawn to the beautiful teacher with shadows in her eyes.

Now, Elizabeth is stalked by strange occurrences and feelings of being. When it appears the serial killer has targeted Elizabeth, she needs all her strength and the haven of safety and calm Griffin provides. As the passion smoldering between them begins to erupt, danger grows ever closer. Why is Griffin in the middle of it all?

While all of the previous Gothic Romances written by Eve Silver have had dark tones, His Wicked Sins outdoes them all. The mood is pervasive and we can't help but be drawn into the story, feeling the fear of the serial killer's victims, and Elizabeth's panic as she becomes more and more convinced something is after her. The added perspective of the serial killer's thoughts when we get into his head will make goose bumps break out at the pure evil in His Wicked Sins.

Elizabeth suffers from a paralyzing fear of the dark and enclosed spaces after a traumatic event as a child. As her feeling of being stalked grows stronger, so does her terror. Yet she cannot let anyone know what is happening to her since she so desperately needs the income her job provides and is afraid they'd let her go if they knew the truth. Each time her panic rises, she feels the need to escape yet oddly enough, when Griffin is near, he gives her the strength to fight her fears and overcome them. I cheered Elizabeth on as I watched her push back the fear time and again to do what was necessary. There is one particular confrontation scene near the end that really puts into perspective how this fear has affected Elizabeth's life.

Griffin has his own demons to face before he can be deserving of Elizabeth's love. He suffers immense guilt over his wife's death and the role he played in it. This is magnified by the fact he is convinced Isobel hates and blames him for losing her mother. It is only through Elizabeth's steadfastness in her feelings for him, and the special bond she shares with Isobel that Griffin finds is way out of his self-imposed prison. When Griffin and Elizabeth admit to themselves and each other their true feelings, passion ignites, burning away the darkness in his soul.

I have to say, Isobel is the heart and soul of the story every single time she puts in an appearance. She is cut off from the world, caught in isolation through her silence. My heart bled for Isobel. I felt for her plight and burst out in joyful smiles every single time we saw her make the slightest move back into the world again. It is hard to portray the feelings of the silent characters like Isobel but Eve Silver manages it beautifully. With the lightest of butterfly touches here and a slight brightening of the eyes there, we are given a glimpse into her soul. I challenge anyone not to be moved when her breakthrough finally comes. I couldn't help it, I broke out into tears when we finally get a look at the Isobel trapped in the darkest places of her own heart.

His Wicked Sins is another delightfully eerie Gothic Romance from the incredible Eve Silver. One especially nice touch in this book is that we have two different story lines, occurring fifteen years apart unfolding together. The mystery surrounding part events and current ones is brilliantly done. I knew there had to be a connection between the two storylines other than the obvious one but it took me a long time before I put all the pieces together and figured it out. Tension mounts as the story unfolds and we feel the urgency of our players to track down and stop the serial killer. On more than one occasion I was on the edge of my seat, chilled at the thought of what the villain would do next.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, July 2008. All rights reserved.

This book stands out from others on the subject for several reasons. For one thing, there are two very different children, who are both highly gifted, but in different ways and with contrasting personalities. Many articles focus around one child, so the reader begins to associate that "type" with giftedness. This book shows that giftedness is not tied to a certain personality. And in fact, one child is a girl, and the other a boy, which to me is also important, as gifted girls are more likely to be overlooked or undereducated in comparison to gifted boys. (Skinner was determined not to let her daughter's potential go to waste.)

Another important characteristic of this book is that it is readable for a layperson and told from the heart of a mother. The length is fairly short, the style is conversational, and there are no national statistics or those otherwise omnipresent lists of characteristics. My mother - generally a non-reader - picked up this book and after reading it could finally see through the behavioral and anxiety issues we have always had with my son. In fact, I credit this book with making her want to get to know her grandson and to be as proud of him as I am, and for that I'm so grateful.

Finally, this book is not a kvetch about where public schools fail, nor does it claim to be a how-to book. Skinner simply tells about what worked and what didn't work in their dialog with the school district during both kids' early educational years. Parents may pick up a few tips about maneuvering to find a schooling solution for their child, and educators and other family members gain a better understanding about why this is so important.

The Mom's Choice Awards® honors excellence in family-friendly media, products and services. An esteemed panel of judges includes education, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. A sampling of the panel members includes: Dr. Twila C. Liggett, Ten-time Emmy-winner, professor and founder of Reading Rainbow; Julie Aigner-Clark, Creator of Baby Einstein and The Safe Side Project; Jodee Blanco, New York Times Best-Selling Author; LeAnn Thieman, Motivational speaker and coauthor of seven Chicken Soup For The Soul books; Tara Paterson, Certified Parent Coach, and founder of The Just For Mom Foundation(tm) and the Mom's Choice Awards®. Parents and educators look for the Mom's Choice Awards® seal in selecting quality materials and products for children and families. This book has been honored by this distinguished award.

"Infinity & Zebra Stripes: Life with Gifted Children" by Wendy Skinner is a must read for teachers, parents of gifted learners and school counselors. Skinner's book lets us walk in the shoes of the parents of two highly gifted children as they celebrate and support their children's intellectual and emotional growth in public school settings.

Parents, educators, and counselors will enjoy Infinity & Zebra Stripes for its candor, insight and humor.

Infinity and Zebra Stripes is a very personal account of a family's struggle to find an appropriate educational situation for their two exceptionally gifted children. Mom Wendy Skinner shares her parenting joys and challenges with a candid and often humorous delivery. Topics touched on include intelligence and achievement testing, perfectionism, the reluctant writer, depression and anxiety, sensitivities, intense interests, and social relationships.

The writing is very honest and gifted anecdotes ring true. Seven year old Ben's exploration of the concept of infinity is a wonderful illustration of the profound thoughts that can occupy gifted young minds. Jillian's conversations on God and Santa Claus show extremely high levels of curiosity and inference. A particularly poignant section concerns Wendy's reaction upon hearing that her young son is way beyond the gifted threshold. The professional test administrator discloses where Ben falls on the gifted spectrum, and Wendy reacts physically. She relates, " My eyes and breath were caught and frozen by this statement. It was as if I had a sudden shock. I was aware of a solid thumping beneath my ribs." Many parents of highly to profoundly gifted children seem to share this feeling of panic, with thoughts spinning off into worries about how the child will ever be educated, make friends, or find a compatible mate.

Statistics put children like the Skinners in the top tenth of one percent, which means it's very unlikely they will encounter a true peer in their classroom or their neighborhood. It's no wonder that some parents describe coming to terms with the label of highly gifted plus as similar to working through the stages of grief. Children this gifted do indeed have special needs.

Skinner's open manner and focus on educational teamwork eventually lead to successful full grade acceleration for son Ben and daughter Jillian. Parents currently struggling with advocacy for their own gifted learners may find Skinner's example encouraging and informative. Her emphasis seems to be on polite persistence and an assumption that teachers and administrators share the common goal of finding the best situation for each individual student.

The book ends with an up-to-date list of terrific parent resources. Highly recommended!

Set in Memphis, Tennessee, 1862. Charlotte Randolph and her brother, Alexander, had been alone in the home since the men went off to war. But all fell apart when Union soldiers appeared to use their home as a general's headquarters. They managed to escape to her brother, Michael. In stead of safety, Michael sent them back with a sob story so they could remain in the Randolph home, near the enemy, and spy.

Captain Ben Chandler refused to be suckered into believing Charlotte's innocence as all the others in the house obviously had. He believed her nothing more than a spy for the Confederacy. Even when he feels an attraction toward her, he keeps his distance by reminding himself that no lady could ever care for a "cripple" with a prosthesis leg. Besides, he was busy keeping others from finding out how often his superior's mind wandered into the past.

***** Oh Readers, there is so much I am having to keep out of that synopsis! Each and every character has secrets and multiple fears that they must hide. The author was able to make it all so realistic to me that I often felt overwhelmed at all the problems poor Charlotte had to deal with! To invoke that kind of feeling from a reader shows major talent!

Here is a story that you will not want to put down. Dust off your "Keeper" shelf, this one will claim a spot. Simply put, you MUST buy this book! *****

Reviewed by Detra Fitch

Set in Memphis, Tennessee, 1862. Charlotte Randolph and her brother, Alexander, had been alone in the home since the men went off to war. But all fell apart when Union soldiers appeared to use their home as a general's headquarters. They managed to escape to her brother, Michael. In stead of safety, Michael sent them back with a sob story so they could remain in the Randolph home, near the enemy, and spy.

Captain Ben Chandler refused to be suckered into believing Charlotte's innocence as all the others in the house obviously had. He believed her nothing more than a spy for the Confederacy. Even when he feels an attraction toward her, he keeps his distance by reminding himself that no lady could ever care for a "cripple" with a prosthesis leg. Besides, he was busy keeping others from finding out how often his superior's mind wandered into the past.

***** Oh Readers, there is so much I am having to keep out of that synopsis! Each and every character has secrets and multiple fears that they must hide. The author was able to make it all so realistic to me that I often felt overwhelmed at all the problems poor Charlotte had to deal with! To invoke that kind of feeling from a reader shows major talent!

Here is a story that you will not want to put down. Dust off your "Keeper" shelf, this one will claim a spot. Simply put, you MUST buy this book! *****

Set in Memphis, Tennessee, 1862. Charlotte Randolph and her brother, Alexander, had been alone in the home since the men went off to war. But all fell apart when Union soldiers appeared to use their home as a general's headquarters. They managed to escape to her brother, Michael. In stead of safety, Michael sent them back with a sob story so they could remain in the Randolph home, near the enemy, and spy.

Captain Ben Chandler refused to be suckered into believing Charlotte's innocence as all the others in the house obviously had. He believed her nothing more than a spy for the Confederacy. Even when he feels an attraction toward her, he keeps his distance by reminding himself that no lady could ever care for a "cripple" with a prosthesis leg. Besides, he was busy keeping others from finding out how often his superior's mind wandered into the past.

***** Oh Readers, there is so much I am having to keep out of that synopsis! Each and every character has secrets and multiple fears that they must hide. The author was able to make it all so realistic to me that I often felt overwhelmed at all the problems poor Charlotte had to deal with! To invoke that kind of feeling from a reader shows major talent!

Here is a story that you will not want to put down. Dust off your "Keeper" shelf, this one will claim a spot. Simply put, you MUST buy this book! *****

Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.

The summer of 1862 brings Union soldiers to occupy Memphis, Tennessee. With her father and brother off fighting for the south, Charlotte Randolph maintains the family home and cares for six-year-old Alexander. The rabid hatred of her neighbor leads Union soldiers to her doorstep as they confiscate the family mansion. Charlotte startles one soldier on the stairs in her attempt to escape and leaves behind a powerful impression of innocence.

Charlotte returns to the family mansion at her brother's insistence to act as a spy. Instead of weaving innocent deceptions, however, Charlotte soon begins to feel as though she weaves nothing but wicked lies. While Captain Ben Chandler refuses to fall under the spell of her deceit, the other residents of the household seem all too eager to believe in Charlotte's innocence. Truth and deception cannot dwell in the same place, however, and soon Charlotte will find herself caught in a web of her own weaving.

INNOCENT DECEPTIONS by Gwyneth Atlee captures readers in a web of deception and betrayal as heroine Charlotte Randolph struggles with the most dramatic moral and ethical question of her time. Rarely does a heroine begin a novel believing in slavery and then come to question its morality in such a powerfully convincing narrative. Captain Ben Chandler likewise presents a powerful dilemma as a southerner fighting for the Union. Even his physical handicap comes as a surprise, lending him vulnerability beneath a commanding presence. Secondary characters are likewise vividly realized, including the implications of an aging General who fights increasing senility, and the free black woman serving as his cook. Indeed, Atlee once again demonstrates her consummate skill of balancing a convincing narrative with memorable characterizations. INNOCENT DECEPTIONS comes very highly recommended.

Amy, you did it again! I actually think this book was better than the Irish Princess, which I loved. You found a way to make us all believe in majick. It took a while for Raymond and Fionna to come together, but boy when they did, it was wonderful. The flowers were a great touch also. Boy, was it ever! Wish I could rate this to 10 stars. Keep up the good work and can't wait for the next one.

I really enjoyed reading this novel. The characters came to life on page one and never disappointed throughout the novel. I will definitely add this author's work to my list of top reads! Thank you Amy!

Cursed land, a banished witch, a bit of magic and a skeptical English Knight make for an appealing new tale from a familiar voice in THE IRISH ENCHANTRESS. Amy J Fetzer first introduced Fionna O'Donnel in her richly fascinating drama THE IRISH PRINCESS. Fionna banned from her family for a decade is nearing the end of her banishment but now her past clashes with her future as she claims not only her daughter, her people but is offered the chance for an incredible love, with magic of a most extraordinary kind.

Ms Fetzer has a an engrossing tale here made even more delightful with the appearance of two youthful secondary characters who add much to this sometimes dark tale: Connal and Sinead. Each adds special elements sure to delight the reader helping to enrich the story, certainly readers will demand their story in the future. I sure expect to learn more of this delightful couple in the future. Add to this some very special and often unexpected evil that can only be rendered impotent by Fionna' magic and the reader will not want to turn the last page.

Although not all is perfect in the telling of this tale. I would be remise if I didn't warn the reader they may find at times, especially in the beginning, that something is missing: a back story implied but not known which may cause reader confusion.. Because of this I would highly recommend reading THE IRISH PRINCESS first. Each book in a series can and should stand alone and in all fairness THE IRISH ENCHANTRESS does for the most part stand alone. Yet, reading both books will allow the reader to fully enjoy the unique magic found in Ms Fetzer's medieval Ireland.

Amy J. Fetzer has created a wonderfully rich and distinctive addition to a body of work reflective of what is especially good with historical romantic fiction. Whether the reader likes the location or the time period, THE IRISH ENCHANTRESS is sure to be a favorite amongst her growing fans and those new to her work.

Irish castle folk and English soldiers inhabit GleannTaise Castle once Fionna O'Donnel. English knight Raymond DeClare doesn't know the castle and his king awards him is cursed. It had been a magnificent castle in its day. Now it must be quickly mended before they all freeze to death this winter. To please his king he must also marry an Irish lass. Before his people starve on the land, Raymond must learn that the O'Donnels cursed the land and only magick can lift winter's spell and bring it back to life.

The witch Fionna believes the English only want to rule or slaughter. She is also long accustomed to rejection. Ten years ago her father beat her and banished her from home. If she wishes to forget what happened, the scars on her back serve a perpetual reminder. Now her daughter lives with friends, and she visits only in secret. Despite her banishment, Fionna protects the sacred circle, the fairies, and all else that is sacred. Fionna descends from the ancient ones who tended the earth, their blood running strongly in her veins.

Fionna wants to hate Raymond, blame him for all the atrocities reaped on Ireland. Yet she healed Raymond once, then clouded him mind with herbs so he would forget her. When she sees him again, his horse bears down on three children in the road. Using magic, she pushes the children from harm and causes the stallion to stop -- unintentionally throwing the rider. He refuses her help, blaming her for the accident. When her hood falls aside, her beauty bewitches him.

Raymond's soul screams recognition, but he knows not why. Then in a moment he remembers that she once saved his life. She reminds him what he must know, that she is a witch. All the while Raymond denies the power of incantations and spells, refusing the truth. Indeed, the law dictates that he takes her life if she persists in her claim. As he looks at her with rage and disgust, Fionna walks away. Like the villagers, Raymond makes her feel shunned and rejected. He vows she'll never know that she's the reason he left Ireland six years ago. Nor admit her eyes have haunted him all this time. And neither can deny the connection that burns between them.

Amy J. Fetzer writes with knowledge and respect for the old ways, understanding elements, fairies, and those who call themselves witches. With a creative flair for storytelling, she weaves an extraordinary tale of magick and love, creating an absolutely memorable tale novel. Her secondary characters, especially the fairie, are absolutely delightful! THE IRISH ENCHANRESS held me spell bound, beginning to end! Very highly recommended.

I originally purchased this book in a sales bin at Barnes and Nobles and I have to say once I started it, it was a fight to put it down, even to eat. The first story, Galaway Bay, was so touching to me I cried all night. The other stories were written with talent and grace. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants emotion from a book.

This book will not appeal to everyone and is reviewed in the context of the intended audience. It is a collection of four novelettes by master storytellers. The first story, "Galway Bay" by Morgan Llywelan, is a change of pace for readers familiar with her full length historical novels. It is set in modern times, and concerns a part-Irish woman on vacation in Galway, Ireland, who encounters the underlying realities of Irish folklore and discovers romance in an unexpected place. The second story, "The Harpers's Daughter" by Barbara Samuel, is set in ancient Ireland and concerns Deirdre, destined to be the bride of a king, but she loves another. Expressed in Deirdre's thoughts (about other women in the king's court), "One of them, one day, would have the warrior who'd snared her heart, while she would lie with the fat, old king. It wasn't fair." Deirdre is cursed with extraordinary beauty that creates uncontrolled lust in the minds of any men who see her. Can she find a refuge with the man she loves, and will magic protect them? The third and fourth stories deal with connections to the spirit world in an ancient Irish setting. The third, "The Trysting Hour" by Susan Wiggs, is about a spirit that can assume a mortal man's shape, and who desires a woman meant to be a king's wife. Can he win her hand while he prevents the king from consumating the marriage? And is she really an ordinary mortal woman? The fourth, "Rarer than a White Crow" by Roberta Gellis, has a man placed under a spell by a shape-changing witch with her own agenda (which can only be guessed at). People are at an interface between the spirit world and the mortal world. Angus must win the hand of Caer and love her til the end of her days in order to be free from the spell, but that is easier said than done. Can they thwart the real agenda of the witch? The book contains explicit sex and violence. It is an excellent set of stories for those interested in this type of fantasy romance.

Wonderful stories of magic, romance, and irish lore. If you like to curl up at night with a short story, this is a great book for you. I was delighted with this book and with Irish Magic II.

when you're in the mood for some short whistful escapist romantic stories in a celtic setting, pick up this one. good for a rainy sunday afternoon.

Jim Brown is a true Icon on so many levels beyond sports. on the field in college and NFL He is One of the best who ever did it. socially He has done alot of great things. he has always spoken out and been his own man.this book was very detailed and a must have. he speaks on such a wide range of topics and pulls no punches.

As I write this, football great Jim Brown's autobiography, OUT OF BOUNDS, is out of print. While I have not ready every autobiography or sports bio, I can't imagine one more engrossing than the Cleveland Brown's OUT OF BOUNDS. Two reasons: 1)It's the story of possibly the best football player to date, in his own words. 2)Jim Brown's own words are dead honest. If you think he's kidding about anything you read in OUT OF BOUNDS, I'd like to see you tell him to his face. Don't give up the search to find OUT OF BOUNDS!

This book was an excellent biography abput sports legend Jim
Brown. He covers his outstanding football career at Syracuse
University. He is also able to give adequate coverage to his
outstanding career as a professional football player. He covers the women who have been a part of his life. He also discusses the football coaches that he dealt with during his football
career. Brown also openly discusses his role in many social issues of the time. He is still even today a hero to many Americans. This book gives an outstanding coverage of his life.
You will not be dissapointed. Buy it.

Read this 4 or 5 years ago, but I can still remember things JB mentioned. This is easily the best sports bio I've read. Usually these things are complete fluff, but JB is a man of substance and he speaks out with intelligence and experience on a number of things (race relations, gangs, etc.) In many ways he is the anti-OJ; he has never gone out of his way to fit in with whites while turning his back on the meanstreets. Rather, he has dedicated much of his life to helping young blacks improve themselves and get out of the gangster life. He does a lot of honorable things, that's why it saddens me when I hear about his repeated run ins w/the law for beating his wife/girlfriend. In any case, this book gives great insight into the complex mind of the greatest football player to ever play the game.

Klassic Koalas: Vegetarian Delights Too Cute to Eat is a visual feast filled with inventive recipes centered around a Koala inspiration. Inventive, adorable, and completely heart warming; the themed recipes have fun projects for the child chef in ones' house as well as the adult who enjoys the fun aspects of food. I enjoyed the book so much that I picked up another one, as well as the aboriginal stories by the same publishing house, and gave them as gifts to my friends' children who are fascinated by Koala's and their world. This book is definitely a keeper.

Delightful, colorful, and tasteful these recipes not only adhere to the vegetarian population but also with children and best of all, those who share the love of Koalas. What a creative way to entertain and impress the guests!

This original collection of imaginative, fanciful and whimsical recipes should be a must for all mothers, teacher and leaders of children's group - especially preschools. Each inventive recipe uses the koala as its theme. Colorful photographs of each completed creation will pique the interest of children, whatever the age. Easy to follow step-by-step instructions will enable even a unskilled cook to prepare delightful edibles for guests, friends and family. These recipes are just too much fun to overlook!

Vegetarian Delights Too Cute to Eat is literally unbearable! Indeed it is hard to resist this superbly illustrated book of recipes. Enjoy cooking while expressing your love for these creatures.

From the back cover-

Man Of Honor
It was a point of honor with the Earl of Argyle never to take advantage of the "lower orders". The Earl was a rake -but a discriminating one, who only succumbed to the charms of his own kind. But there was something about his new maid Megan that made the Earl yearn to break his own rule. With her blue eyes smiling up at him, even the most honorable gentleman might yield to temptation.

Maid To Order
For six months Lady Margaret "Megan" Linton had to serve as a maid in a noble household, of forfeit her grandfather's fortune. It was a shocking condition, but the resourceful Megan was determined to fulfill her grandfather's last wish. Because the Earl of Argyle prided himself on never abusing his maids, she thought she would be safe from him. But she never expected that danger would lurk in her own undeniable passion for the handsome lord of the manor!

Fantastic book! An extremely amusing regency romance even though (and I agree with Laura here) its totally far fetched, but thats what makes it such a fun read. Justin is the delicious rakish Earl who is completed dumbfounded by his attraction to the lovely outspoken maid Meggy. And likewise the independent and strong-willed masquerading Lady Linton desperately denies her love for the adorable rogue. They are two fantastic well-matched characters. Its worth reading the entire book just for the ending when they come face to face as Earl and Lady. LOL! Fireworks!

Highly recommended to those looking for a funny historical romance read along with The Country Gentleman.

***minor spoiler***
The reason for the less than perfect rating is a personal one. I don't like my hero's having sex with any other woman other than the heroine once they meet. Its a mood killer for me. So the descriptions of Justin's bawdy house romps after Meggy left dropped him down a notch in my estimation. And to know that he even called some of the women Meggy during the act brought on the Ick-factor. Other than that the book is excellent.

the other reviewers have pretty much summed up the storyline so let me just add a few points:

First and foremost-if you are like me, an avid Regency Romance reader-be forewarned. To truly enjoy this comical story, you must seriously employ your suspension of disbelief and temporarily forget what you already know of the moires' of ton society to enjoy this book. The author has every character in the book behaving quite implausibly for the period. If you are a Regency accuracy purist, you may have a tough time getting through this book. But, if you can put that aside, I think you will enjoy what is an otherwise funny, sweet and smart story.

I loved the characterizations in this book and Miss Holbrook must be commended for her use and knowledge of so much Regency vocabulary and slang. She wrote several things I've never even read in my many years of reading Regencies, but I do not doubt their accuracy.

If you like a strong, funny and intelligent heroine, then you'll love Megan. No simpering Miss here. This book is lighthearted, enjoyable and a fast read. I recommend it and look forward to trying other books by this author.

4.5 stars.

Charming story with an unusual twist. In order to gain her vast inheritance, Lady Margaret "Megan" must abide by her late grandfather's wishes and go into 'service' for 6 months. The lawyer is aghast - but Megan's affection for her lovingly eccentric grandfather, was reason enough for her to carry through with the masquerade.

She becomes a maid in the Earl of Arglye country home - believing that she is safe not only because it's well known the Earl doesn't dally with the 'lower orders' but because the estate was usually deserted!

Needlesstosay, the family chooses this time to visit and uncharacteristically Maid 'Meggy' becomes a companion to the Earl's scatterbrained mother, friend to his younger brother and...the Earl's greatest temptation!

This is an excellent read if you can find a copy of it!

As a part of her "eccentric" grandfather's will Lady Megan must spend six months as a servant in someone's home. Not one to back down from a challenge, especially one that promises to be fun, "Meggy" enters the Earl of Argyle's rarely visited country estate as a maid. And then Justin and his town friends descend on the house along with his flighty mother, rascal bother, and crazy uncle. A spunky, intelligent, hoyden and a stuffed shirt of a Nobleman! Whatta combination! She can't (and won't) help who she is and he can't help but fall in love. A pleasure to read!

Away from the confines of the ton's rigid rules the characters break out in true form: real, funny, sometimes vunerable, always human. Meggy is truly ahead of her times and Justin tries (poor man) so hard not to give in to himself. CH's writing of the different relationships in the story is also flawless and touching. The personalities of the main and supporting characters are seamless and indentifiable.

One author I will be following. A definite keeper!

The author was very visionary considering that global warming wasn't even an issue at the time this book was published. Unlike Holywood (no that's not a typo), the author spreads the story out over enough time to make it realistic. And still manages to make the story interesting to the end. The only thing I would have done differently myself was the ending, but it does fit into the story line very neatly.

If anyone is curious about the various ways that climate change will affect our planet should read this book. I won't say it's all there, but what is there has been carefully researched.

A changed political climate has an effect on the plot today, but it's still an incredible read. A very strong sleeper among books. If it had been published a decade later, it would most likely have already made it to the screen.

I read this book in the 80s when it was published and it also gave me the chills. This book is very relevant to today as we experience more climatic changes and I thought of this book when I read a series in the Los Angeles Times last summer concerning our sick oceans. The link is posted below. I believe that anybody who has concerns about the environment should read this book, even though it is fictional.

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I first read this book almost 20 years ago, and every time I think about it, I get the chills. So many of the issues Mr. Hoyle addressed (even though fictionalised) have come to pass. I have seen in my life time the world change -- climate wise, geographically, etc. This book made me aware of the environment, and brought home to me just how destructive and selfish mankind can be in its blind pursuit of progress and exploitation of natural resources. Any one who reads this will go to bed every night with a sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach. Why? Because the fiction in the book is becoming fact in our lifetime today...

trevor hoyle has asked some very serious enviro questions which seem to be more in the line of prediction or long term forecasting. A really thought provoking bit of fiction with a bit of everything. From still relevant enviro issues and info tech society to socio economic questions that the whole of the global village will ultimately have to face. A truly great book.

This book is a great historical saga not a romance. The book is a very good fast paced read with more than 700 pages of love, hate, love lost and pain. It is by far more of a saga than a romance. There is romance in the story but it is more a story of the trying and sometimes very depressing lives wealthy women were expected to live in the late 19th century. A VERY GOOD READ that will keep you up a night. I highly recommend it!!

I love this book and have re-read it many times. A good book to curl up with.

Romance? There is not much of it in this historical novel.

This is a good book, but definitely not as romantically inclined as the title, back cover description and sensual sketch suggests. It is about the life saga of two girls from the teenage years through the twilight years of affluent beautiful Isabel and plain impoverished Marian. They are forever linked together by the death of Marian's brother and their story is told through the eyes of Marian. This lengthy and well detailed saga describes the trials, tribulations and little happiness of these women and the people closely associated with them. The storyline is good and easy to follow but I feel it's rather bleak and generally unhappy, if not outright depressing in some of the scenarios. If I had realized this book is not as romantically inclined and mostly cheery as I prefer to read, I would not have chosen it. Though it is not what I anticipated, it is a five star read.

Set against the glittering Boston of the 1880s and the opulent society of turn-of-the-century Newport, this is the story of Isabel January-a debutante of wealth, breeding, and rare beauty, whose poised smile and cool eyes hid the wild yearning of her heart. And this is the story of Marian Childs-plain, impoverished, without prospects, yet destined to blossom into a woman of style and substance. Of different worlds, these two indomitable women are inextricably linked through fortune and fate, through tragedy and triumph, through the one man whose ruthless passion will forever alter the course of both their lives.

Author of "A Woman of Independent Means" and "Life Sentences".