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The Red Badge of Courage is told through the perspective of a young man from the North named Henry Fleming or "the youth" as Crane calls him often. Reluctantly sent on his way from a small farm in the North, Henry excitedly signs up for the army and is eager to fight his first battle against the South. Henry finds out a lot about himself and matures quite a bit from the first battle. During the first battle, Henry flees the fight and is ashamed of himself for a while. Henry then gathers up the strength to once again give it his all, this time heroically undertaking a great role of leadership in the final battle that would indeed earn him the "Red Badge of Courage".

I liked this book for a few reasons. For one, it's so nice to actually see a character develop and have very human flaws as Henry did and go to possible redemption at the end. In addition, the novel as others have said is a short, but surprisingly accurate depiction of war and not just a rosy outlook in which the main character is flawless from start to finish as well as the war in general for the North. Lastly, the length makes it a very enjoyable novel that you can finish in a day or so.

For having never read the book in school, I definitely would recommend this to anyone who has done the same.

The book was in good condition and well wrapped but was so late arriving it was a bit ridiculous.

Don't be deceived by this book's length - although The Red Badge of Courage is a short book (written by Stephen Crane in ten days), the depth it goes into easily surpasses novels of greater lengths. Crane fills this novel with ironies and color symbolisms throughout the course of the war, which can be easily overlooked. At 129 pages, this novel covers young Henry Fleming's enlistment, training, desertion, and three days of battle. Despite the short span of time the book records, it depicts Henry entering the war as a naïve young man who later matures into a brave soldier. This goes to say that one of the book's major topics includes the coming of age. All young recruits seek to emerge as men at the end of war, but later realize that the war is not the glorious affair described in Greek mythology. Although only Henry's thoughts are known, it is heavily implied in the book that other young soldiers are having conflicted feelings just like him. This in turn contributes to shaping the novel's focus more on the psychology of war than the history.
The novel is a chronologically organized series of episodes as seen through Henry's eyes; although the 304th regiment was fabricated, the battle described in the novel is the real-life Battle of Chancellorsville. . By keeping the characters nameless, Crane universalizes the novel and makes the lessons applicable to any person at any given situation. Although the war is implied to be the Civil War, it is never mentioned in order to achieve the same purpose of promoting the novel's universality.
Overall, the book does a so-so job at keeping the reader's interest at bay. Although events are fast-paced, the novel itself is not a page-turner - there is just never enough to capture the readers' attention. To me, Crane's technique of not using names is frustrating at times to remember who is who. If you are seeking for an exciting read, look elsewhere.

Crane has a weird, impressionist writing style showing the battle fields of the American Civil War as seen through the eyes of Pvt. Henry Flemming. Unlike all the other editions, Crane's story is fully restored here in this W. W. NORTON edition, republished for the first time since 1889, with Crane's complete exploration of why a person acts courageously in war. This is the only edition of the complete novel before editors got their hands on it.

What can one truly say about an American Classic. It would be presumptuous on my part, at the very least, to analyze Mr. Crane's masterpiece after so many literary giants have already poked and prodded this novel of youth and war to ad nauseam. As a young boy in the early 1950s, I first read this novel and enjoyed the superficial battle narratives. Later as a college student in the 1960s, I again was treated to an analysis of this great work by a distinguished university professor. Needless to say he dug deep into the meaning of this and that and what Mr. Crane was "really" saying. Academia arrogance always amuses me. As I grew older, and not necessarily wiser, I grew to enjoy reading about the American Civil War more and more. Today in my 60s I guess you could say I am a Civil War buff as I have read about and visited most civil war battlefields and sites. The one thing that keeps coming back, and to me grows more interesting with each passing year, is the life and views of the common soldier. When the smoke clears away, and the generals have gone, it is the essence of the common soldier that remains. It is he, or she, that was the spirit of the battles. In this light Mr. Crane captured that elusive spirit.
Today, I periodically reread The Red Badge of Courage to feel and taste what those common soldiers saw and felt. Although Mr. Crane did not actually serve in the Civil War, he was not born until 1871, his narrative nevertheless captures the flavor of those horrific times.
It is a simple book about a young boy growing up during a terrible war. As the pure, innocent young boy leaves his mom and trudges off to find glory in war, he soon discovers that war is anything but glory. It is dirty, messy, bloody, lonely, and at times, most times, terrifying. He must confront his demons as the guns roar and find out who he really is. During his first encounter of battle, the boy simply runs away terrified. He agonizes over his cowardice. He longs to return to his unit but is afraid of what his mates will think of his running away. Then he is struck in the head by a rifle from another soldier and realizes he can return and claim a battle injury. So he returns and is hailed a hero. In his heart he sadly knows the truth and during a second battle redeems himself in glory. The story concludes with his realization that there is no glory in war or death and sadness. Despite this he rejoices to be among his comrades.
A simple story that brings home the horrors of war and the truth of glory. Again, an American classic and a must read.

I'm a Sidney Sheldon's fan but I was so disappointed with this book. It is so full of contradictions. The characters' actions are illogical. Leslie is supposed to an extremely intelligent woman who has built a press empire for herself (with the help of her husband's money), yet, she makes all important decisions with the aid of an astrologer. She wants revenges but she would not give Oliver Russell any bad press when she had the chance and he wasn't so powerful. Who would want to wait for the guy to become president before trying to bring him down? In the end, she was described as a stupid b**** who just wasted all her time and money to turn reputable publications into cheap tabloids, how did she build an empire being this stupid?

This is a very quick, easy, and fun read for those looking for light entertainment and an escape from reality for a few hours! This is a book that can help pass the time while traveling or on vacation as well.

Nice storyline, that captures your attention at the start of this novel and holds it through the end of this novel. Take one smart advertising executive, Leslie Stewart, with an IQ that places her in the genius category and one suave, ladies man, attorney Oliver Russell, whom is running for governor of Kentucky. The two meet when the advertising firm Leslie Stewart works for decides to do pro bono work in order to help Oliver Russell in his run for Governor of Kentucky. Stewart & Russell fall in love quickly and become engaged to be married. Shortly before they are to be married, Russell flies to Paris on business and marries his former girlfriend. Stewart reads about the marriage in the local paper and is crushed although she takes the news in stride.

From that day forward Stewart vows to take revenge on Russell for breaking her heart. But in a cruel twist of fate, even the best laid plans don't always guarantee the desired outcome and can back fire!

Sometimes a person gets so focused on revenge that they do not realize that the only person they are really hurting is themself. That is what happens to Leslie Stewart when she decides to take down Oliver Russell, the President of the United States. Leslie was suppose to have married Oliver when he was an Attorney in Kentucky. Fortunately he marries the daughter of US Senator and becomes the Governor of Kentucky and then the President of the United States. Leslie cannot forget the humiliation of being dumped so she plots a revenge against Oliver. Meanwhile, a couple of young girls have been found murdered while using Ecstasy and the girls are somehow linked to Oliver. Leslie who recalls Oliver trying to persuade her to use Ecstasy when they were dating begins to think that this might be her big break in her quest to bring down Oliver. But is she on the right track? Read the book and find out. You will also meet Dana Evans, a star reporter for the Washington Tribune which is owned by Leslie. Dana will be key character in exposing the truth. You can also read more about Dana in Sidney Sheldon's "The Sky is Falling".

What an adventure this story was. My heart was pounding at the end when all the action was unfolding. I guessed the villain about three quarters of the way through the story, but that didn't make it any less thrilling. Sidney Sheldon was a master of the arts and this book is just a small example of his talent. It is my first experience reading his works, but I guarantee it won't be my last. The story revolves around several plots, but the basis of the plot is "hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." The woman, in this case, is Leslie Stewart and the man is Oliver Russell, Governor of Kentucky and then later on, President of the United States. Leslie is out to get her revenge for being "left at the altar" and Oliver gives her plenty of ammunition to use against him. The tale twists and turns over the ensuing years, with many characters supporting both parties to get them to the top of their respective careers just for Leslie to bring Russell crashing down at the pinnacle of his term. Sheldon takes us through a journey of the terrible affect of the war in Sarajevo as he introduces first rate television and news reporter, Dana Evans. We also get an insight as to the corruptive and manipulative tactics of the world of politics. Through the eyes of Senator Todd Davis and assistant to the President, Peter Tager, we see what strides are made to protect the office of the most powerful man of our nation.

i've been a huge fan of sheldon
you can never guess what'll happen and his story is different from each novel..
probably one of the greatest story teller of all times

I am a hugh fan of the Drudge Report, but this books seems to have been more of a "cash-in" type thing, it really doesn't offer much of anything unless you enjoy reading AIM conversations, Drudge talking to his cat, and other occasional things of "substance." Reccomended only for die hard fans of Mr. Drudge

Matt Drudge has challenged the mainstream media for over a decade now with his website and he gives a fresh take on what the internet will become in future years.
He's a guy who claims he barely graduated high school, has no college and happened to stumble upon, what was at the time, a niche concept: internet news. Drudge will go down in history as one of the most influential men in 21st century news, because he single handedly has challenged politicians, media big-shots, and corporate conglomerates.
This book gives a recount of his escapades with the Lewinsky scandal, among other experiences up until mid-2000 when it was published. Just as Drudge predicts, the internet is replacing contemporary media faster than expected.
Drudge's writing style is quick and in-your-face. A fun, fast read, I strongly recommend this book to anyone getting involved in web-blogging or who simply wants to find a different source for news than the sour Old Grey Lady and her bratty grandchildren imitators.

Yep, this book needs to be required reading for those Journalism majors/minors. Folks, this is the future of Journalism... the internet, blogging, and digging up dirt before the big networks get to it. Drudge knew the risk when he was going to post the Newsweek/Lewinsky scandal deal. Now, look at him.

I gave this book 3 stars although I could've gave it four. If you're a fan of his site you'll really like this book. The unconventional email style this text follows is really clever.

The thing I like about the author is he is the biggest sh#t stirrer ever and he's devoted to news, dirt, and breaking down the walls of communication. In his book, he details his rise from mediocrity to shaking the walls of the white house. His story is very good. I do enjoy his work though because he shows how lazy and clickish the "real" media is.

Giving a review of this book is kind fruitless - either you get Drudge's vibe or you don't. If you do pick this tome up.

Matt Drudge will be remembered for the role he played in popularizing the revolution brought about by the advent of Internet news. However, when it comes to the world of publishing, he better not quit his day job.

As one of the pioneers of a new form of mass communication, one would expect Drudge Manifesto to be an insightful tome as to his medium's possibilities and strategies on how others might replicate his success. However, on this count Drudge Manifesto falls as short as the New York Times in fulfilling its civic obligation of supplying useful information.

The reader comes away from Drudge Manifesto with the impression that Mr. Drudge is an individual --- not unlike his nemesis Bill Clinton --- too aware of his own place in history. The extent of Drudge's own self-awareness is to such a radical degree that it has led him to use a number of McCluhanesque literary devices bordering on the bizarre and that, ultimately, detract from the text.

For example, there are a number of pages scattered throughout the work filled with nothing but oversized "0"'s or a "1"s. On another is nothing but a single declaration in smaller-than-average size type in the center of the page reading "You're boring".

The only thing boring is wading through Drudge's inane gimmicks. However, those with the stamina to meander through will be rewarded for their troubles with a transcript of the Q & A of Drudge's 1998 address at the National Press Club in which the famed Internet muckraker provides perspective into the nature of this new medium and deflects criticisms of elitist mainstream journalists jealous about sharing the media spotlight with insightful outsiders.

In reading Drudge Manifesto, one is forced to conclude that Matt Drudge has become so intertwined with the medium synonymous with his name that he is nearly unable to rise above its limitations or to provide much of an analytical perspective capable of making the information revolution an even more effective venue for further expanding the freedoms of all mankind.

by Frederick Meekins

I classified this Archer novel as "fun". A story of a lifelong battle between two newspaper tycoons, it is fast paced and entertaining. I enjoyed it immensely.

Another excellent Archer offering. I was well into it before I realised the two main characters are based on Murdoch and Maxwell. It is an excellenty told tale. One wonders what the Dirty Digger thinks of it if he has read it. Archer is a great story teller who keeps the reader gripped.

I'm usually very fond of Archer's novels and particularly liked "Kane and Abel"...in fact, it is probably one of the best books I've ever read and it immediately moved Archer to my list of "favorite authors." He's very much at home in multiple genres, ranging from multi-generation sagas to spy thrillers to political dramas to short stories.

This book opens with nearly the same premise as Kane and Abel...two children born in very different circumstances on opposite sides of the globe who grow to become arch nemises. With expectations that we'd be treated to another K&A, this book fell short in numerous ways...so short that I lost interest partway through and just skipped to the end. For me, the main problem was the characters themselves - like two self-absorbed asteroids hurtling towards each other, I just really didn't care if they obliterated themselves in the end.

For those who know the industry, it isn't too hard to guess who Archer patterned his two media-mogul main characters after. They aren't the most lovable guys in the world, just like the characters in the book. Their business-is-war and take-no-prisoners attitude towards life and career isn't particularly endearing, and as a result, Archer managed to somehow give us two antagonists rather than dual protagonists as in Kane and Abel.

There are other Archer novels that far surpass this one, most notably "As the Crow Flies" and "Kane and Abel." I like much of Archer's work...just not this one.

Not recommended. The story could have been told in far less than 742 pages. The first part was intriguing, as we were introduced to the two main characters -- two children in different parts of the world with vastly different lifestyles, both clever and entrepreneurial. Their devious ways were entertaining. When they became mega-business competitors as adults, it was mildly interesting. But by the time I was half-way through the book, I realized that I didn't care about either of them. There was a great lack of character development. As businessmen, they were ruthless and amoral; as people, they were uncaring and self-centered. There was nothing likeable about either of them. The last 300 pages were nothing but repeated plotting and scheming against each other, ad nauseum. But because I had read other books by this author that were exceptionally good, I plodded on, hoping for an exciting conclusion. Disappointingly, the ending was extremely ho-hum. The only bit of satisfaction for me was tossing this book into my trash can.

Some reviewers state there is no heros in this book - it's about the least objectionable person. They are right. It's thinly disguested Maxwell and Murdoch. It's no wonder they sued to stop publicication of the work.

Each character has their share of sleeze. Both were willing to do whatever it took to come out on top. But neither had the good sense to recognize when they should let it go... and let the other ruin each other.

Indeed, ask yourself before the end - which man deserves to triumph. The best of them, the worst of them, neither, or just one of them. The answer might not be what you think.

Although the plot is somewhat predictable, and certainly not very believable... (why are two city folk solving a murder instead of the police) the story still entertains. It is always fun to follow Evanovich's characters (this time with the obvious assistance of Charlotte Hughes) through their hairbrained trials and tribulations. I listened to this book on CD and thoroughly enjoyed the author interview at the end.

If you are looking for another great, quick read I recommend "The Time Keeper" by Kevin Cropp. Although not as light-hearted as "Full Blast" it is still a gratifying, recommended read.

I found this series quite by accident, and it is nothing like the books I usually read. It is light, simple fun. I needed something like this for a break and have thoroughly enjoyed the series. Max, Jamie and of course Muffin are at it again, solving a murder. This series isn't Stephanie Plum and it isn't deep, meaningful literature. But, if you want an afternoon of fun, light reading, then by all means pick up the Full series. Like most series, they are best enjoyed in order.

I enjoy Charlotte Hughes. The combination of Charlotte and Janet is great. I actually did go buy Full House and I enjoyed it as much or even more than Full Tilt. Characters are so enjoyable in both books and am looking forward for the next one.

Jamie Swift is ready for her life to return to normal and predictable, but when the personal's section of her newspaper is the only connection in a series of serial killings, Jamie enlists the help of her commitment phobic lover Max, and a shady psychic Divine.

Though Janet Evanovich's name is on the cover of this novel, it is obvious she did not write it. Nothing, except for 3 scenes altogether, had any resemblance to her writing style. The main characters were different in personality to those in the previous book in the series, and they were different from any character Janet has ever written (which indicates that she didn't write this). In the 300 plus pages of this novel, there was only ONE comical scene, and that wasn't all that funny. The only comical character in the novel (Dee Dee) was actually vary stupid and pathetic. If you're a Janet fan, avoid this book because it wasn't written by her. If you're a Charlotte fan, then you might enjoy this novel and it's lack of Janet's writing. Personally, I read Janet Evanovich's novels for the comedy. No one can make me laugh like she does, and for that reason, this novel disappointed me. I wanted a silly comedy, not a semi-serious romance with a small amount of suspense. When it comes to non-comical romantic suspense, there are better books and authors out there.

Once again Janet Evanovich entertains her readers with a witty story full of fun. She has teamed up with Charlotte Hughes to write the FULL series and the duo continues to produce winning stories that will keep you coming back for the next one.

Jamie and Max once more team up in FULL BLAST to free Beaumont, South Carolina of a villain. For a small town this one sure has more than its share of bad guys. Jamie runs the small newspaper in the town and Max Holt is her silent partner - he's the multi-millionaire hunk that has breezed in and out of Jamie's life for two previous books, or a few months in normal time measuring terms. They both feel fireworks when they are together but until this book those fireworks were always smothered by interruptions.

Jamie decides to add a personal ad section in her newspaper and it unknowingly causes problems. A woman in town is murdered and the chief of police believes it's tied to the personal ads. Jamie calls Max in to help solve the crime... ok so it was an excuse to call Max because she missed him.

Max arrives to save the day and they begin another quest to solve yet another mystery. The mystery isn't much of one as the identity of the villain is obvious from the first appearance. The only difference in this book and the two previous ones is that there are no bullets flying at Jamie nor is she in immediate danger.

The romantic aspects of this book seem to be the focal points. A new lingerie shop is opened in Beaumont by the ex-librarian to the horror of some of the more staid citizens. Also, there is a rumor floating around that the local baker is adding aphrodisiacs to his brownies. It seems as if everyone in Beaumont has their hormones on overdrive and many of these side plots are absolutely hilarious. Even Fleas, Jamie's bloodhound, has a poodle that won't leave the poor thing alone and he has to jump in the bed of the pick-up truck to get away. My favorite was the transformation of Vera, Jamie's assistant editor who has been like a mother to her for years. Vera's beehive hairdo is replaced with a stylish cut, her clothes take on a drastic change to modern attire, and she even gets a pink mustang. Her dating escapades were icing on the cake in this story line.

Max and Jamie finally have some uninterrupted time together (wink, wink) and most of this story has them each trying to figure out the depth of their feelings for each other. It'll be interesting to see what lies ahead for these two with FULL BLOOM - the next book in the series. I'm not sure how much more these two characters can keep the readers entertained and wanting to come back for more - they've done just about everything possible and it would be overkill to continue with them.

Character development is once again excellent. The transformation of Vera into a woman who dates and enjoys life was tremendous. The addition of a psychic was interesting, but Ronnie the spirit who follows her around was priceless. The characters are so vastly different that I wonder if these two authors don't sit down over coffee and come up with outrageous people and see how they would fit in the storyline.

Overall, FULL BLAST is another fun book by Evanovich and Hughes. If you're looking for a mystery that will have your mind working overtime to figure it out, this is not the book for you. But if you're looking for a fun story, with a lot of romance, then pick up a copy soon.

I started reading "Off With Their Heads" today. I got bored with the first long chapter about the leftward bias of the New York Times, so I skipped to the chapter on Hollywood apologists. And after a couple of paragraphs, I realized that although I might agree with the premise of the book, I was just plain bored with it. I mean, who cares?

I might as well read a 200-page book called "The Earth is Round (and Other Really Obvious Truths)."

Dick Morris is a man of God, as he tells us on page 16 of his new book, "Off With Their Heads: Liberal Bastard Commie Traitors, and Their Ilk." He tells us that when he worked for the Democrats, he was asked to help them win elections, and it seemed he was working for the democrats, but in hindsight, clearly Dick wasn't helping.

But the heart of this book is Chapter 7, "The Liberals are Running Amok in the Zoo." And it's true, too, as I know a few liberals, and I've seen them at the zoo. But it may be that the Zoo is a metaphor for Congress, and I was misunderstanding Dick. So in that case, I haven't actually seen the liberals running amok there, since I don't get C-Span. Well, OK, I get C-Span, but I don't watch it - do you? It's very boring. But maybe if the liberals are running amok there, it's not as boring as I thought, so maybe I should go watch some. Hold on....

Nope, it's as boring as I thought, no liberals running amok there, just Rick Santorum ranting about farm animal subsidies.

So Dick's book is good. So good, it found a publisher. Even though the liberals running the media tried to get this book silenced. But they didn't succeed. And for that we can thank George W. Bush. Yes, that's right, the President of the United States personally called publishers on Dick's behalf and got this very important book published. So thank you George, and thank you Dick too.

I know this was not one of my more normal reviews, but I hope it was helpful to you anyway. It was helpful to me.
-bobdavisart

This is an excellent book.I don't know too much about Morris.This isn't surprising since we can't get FOX News here in Canada.He does a great job of showing the reasons for much that is wrong in America,and Canada,today.The left wing bias of Newspapers like NY Times,TV Network News like ABC,NBC,CBS and CNN is rampant He reveals the failures to take action against Terrorism for years preceeding 9/11,the assinine pronouncements of the entertainment community,France,gerrymandering,corporate corruption,and a few other things.
In Canada,our political spectrum runs from socialist to liberal with little room for anything center or conservative thinking.There is talk of changing the balance;they may start allowing Al-Jazerra in,but I hold little hope for FOX News.
Morris has done a good job of showing how these problems have developed and brings back to memory many things.I find it hard to fault what he says;he's only stating the facts.Though there are many very negative reviews here,I don't see many disputing what he says.Instead, they attack him.
Personally, it's very sad for me to see the Anti-Americanism of so many in my country,particularly that on the part of the Government.Our government continues to snub the requests of the best friend our country has ever had while pandering up to France.Like they'll be there when we need them.
This left-wing thinking has proven wrong for over 70 years,and a failure everywhere embraced.That is not my opinion,the facts speak for themselves.This is what is what Morris is showing in the book.If you don't agree,just look where it has been tried and you'll see where this anti- americanism comes from.The one thing leftists can't stand is success;it negates their reason for being.
America has got to stay the course and be the becon for freedom everywhere.The UN,ACLU,Appeasement,Apologists and Leftists are part of the problem and thus cannot be the hope for the future.
God Bless America!

Dick Morris' "Off With Their Heads" is a collection of chapters that are more actually opinion columns that belong on a blog (but a blog worth browsing) than a hardcover book. The writing is less sophisticated than Morris' New York Post entries, and by far the weakest parts are those dedicated to combining the chapters into a common theme. That includes the insipid title and awful book cover.

Few of the writers that criticize either Bush or Clinton have the insider's perspective like Dick Morris. As noted before, the best bits come from anecdotes inside the Clinton White House (Clinton's unwillingness to confront Sandy Berger, veto-but-not-a-veto of the Dodd bill, and to top it all, Jimmy Carter's absurd takeover of the talks with North Korea). Morris gives us the impression that Clinton had his strengths, but his scandals and lapses in moral conviction caught to him and handicapped his authority.

To Morris' credit, the only direct comparison made between Bush (43) and Clinton is the willingness of Bush to confront the enemies of America. Other comparisons, I'm sure will be the topic of future books.

Dick Morris' book on the crimes of the 1990's seems a little dated and reads like it was written for less than sophisticated readers (like Goldberg's "Bias"). Hence, the three stars. I still recommend it for those curious about how the events (and non-events) of the Nineties led to the world of 2005 (not to mention 2001).

I enjoyed reading this book. I think Morris has a number of good points to make. I didn't always agree with the author, but I still like this book.

Morris starts by pointing out that the New York Times is untrustworthy. Did he just now realize this? Anyway, he shows that its polling methods are biased, confusing people on all sides of issues. And worse, that it pays for interviews and scoops by pulling punches.

Now, we were attacked by terrorists on 9/11. Why do the terrorists hate us? Morris says it is simple. We have freedom of religion and speech. And we have rights for women, Jews, and other minorities.

I think that we need to admit that there are people who say that we're forgetting poverty, despair, and American support for foreign despots. Obviously, poverty is bad. Despair is bad. We ought not promote either. And we aren't helping matters when we support dictators in an attempt to have "stability." But I feel these are not the main reasons for why we were attacked. I think that our perceived support for Israel proves it. Israel is not a dictatorship. I think complaints about our support for Israel tend to make Morris' point.

Of course, Morris has plenty to say about these issues in this book. And he discusses at length claims by others that the war on terror is racist and an excuse to grab Iraqi oil. And that we should change our policy, and appease the United Nations and support Arab terror when it is against Israel. Morris replies that the issue is not racism, but terrorism, and some profiling is indeed needed. As well as that Israel clearly wants to be left in peace, and Arabs are the ones initiating the violence in the Levant.

The author discusses France and its reaction to terror. France strongly favors appeasement, and Morris says that this is likely in response to the terrible casualties it suffered in World War I.

What about the United Nations? Morris simply wants us to avoid it at least as long as France has a veto. I certainly would not say this myself. I'd get rid of the UN entirely.

There is an interesting chapter on Enron and its significance. And one on nursing homes. And one on reducing tobacco sales. And there is one on how a couple of states (Iowa and Arizona) are no longer gerrymandering their congressional districts! If all states did that, it would refranchise us voters.

I recommend this book.

I seem to find myself in political stories lately. This story is about murder, conspiracy, cover up and trying to figure out who is telling the true story. A daughter accuses her father of leading a secret unit of men from Vietnam and after in killing people. She was a witness to one killing and the killer appeared to be her boyfriend from high school. Her story is too far fetched to be true and her father has her committed to a sanitarium for a year.

This is an interesting read. I enjoyed it from the first few pages and although I thought I figured out how it would end, I couldn't wait to finish once I got close to the end. There were still a few twists that I was not expecting.

Not a top rated book perhaps, but a book worthy of reading.

I give this one 3 stars because I thought the overall story was a good idea. However, Mr. Margolin may want to leave the tales of espionage to Nelson Demille in the future.
It seemed like everytime you turned the page, one characther was telling another character about what was going on and re-telling the entire plot. When I finished it was like I had read it four or five times. If you want a real espionage novel, try Nelson Demille, he's the best that there is.

I am not a critical book reader, I read for entertainment, so I don't judge a book if it is realistic or not, it fast paced and exciting.

When packing for a long road trip I always like to take authors like Philip Margolin along for the ride. His books on CD keep you alert and engaged and Lost Lake is no exception.

While there is a crime committed in Lost Lake (several in fact) there is no mystery to solve because you already know who-dunnit. The underlying question is why was the crime committed, and are the stories being told by the chief protagonists (Carl Rice and Vanessa Kohler) the real deal or just the delusions of a couple of paranoiac personalities.

It's up to their lawyer Ami Vergano to try to separate fact from fiction and determine the truth behind the story that began 20 years earlier with the brutal torture murder of a Congressman.

Deborah Hazlett is a talented reader and she deftly breathes life into Margolin's characters and keeps the story moving along at a lively pace. You find yourself pulling for Carl and Vanessa while still wondering if perhaps they really are crazy and you've been sucked into their deluded world.

If you enjoy a story that delves into the arenas of political and military cover-ups and is laced with tension and a touch of uncertainty you'll relish your journey to LOST LAKE.

I've read better, but this was a nice change of pace from what I was reading at the time. It was different and entertaining, and well written. Good character development.

Hunter S. Thompson is my absolute favorite author hands down and he is fascinating to me. I am sorry he is no longer with us, but what a LIFE he led; He crammed more LIFE than most people can imagine. This is a MUST for HST fans.

Make no mistake the late, lamented Hunter Thompson was always something of a muse for me going way back to the early 1970's when I first read his seminal work on California outlaw bikers, The Hell's Angels. Since then I have devoured, and re-devoured virtually everything that he has written. However the present book leaves me cold. This is a case where `greed' (on whose part I do not know, although the proliferating pile of remembrances of Thompson may give a hint) got the better of literary wisdom. This compilation of articles started life as commentary on the [...], part of the cable sports network. And perhaps that is where the project should have ended. Hey, this stuff has a half-life in cyberspace so not all would have been lost.

So what is the basis for my objection? Part of Hunter's attraction always has been a fine sense of the hypocrisy of American politics. Although we march to different drummers politically I have always appreciated his ability to skewer the latest political heavyweight- in- chief, friend or foe. That is missing here although he does get a few whacks in on the current child-president George W. Bush. But this is not enough. What this screed is really about is the whys and wherefores of his life long addiction to sports betting and particularly professional football, the NLF.

A run through the ups and downs of Thompson's previous seasons' (2000-2003) gambling wins and loses, however, does not date well. Hell, I can barely remember last week's bets. But the real problem is that, as in politics, we listen to different drummers. I am a long time fan of `pristine and pure' big time college football and would not sully my hands to bet on the NFL so his whining about the San Francisco 49'ers or the Denver Broncos is so much hot air. However, I will take Ohio State and 3 points against LSU in the 2007 college championship game. That's the ticket. I miss Hunter and his wild and wacky writing that made me laugh many a time when I was down and needed a boost but not here. Enough said.

Postscript: May 15, 2008. Needless to say there is a strong difference between my uncanny powers of political prognosis and the rather mundane ability to pick college football champions. Obviously, only a fool would have bet on the Buckeyes of Ohio State against a real SEC team like those Cajun boys from LSU. Right?

4.5 stars

I didn't read much of Hunter's ESPN stuff at the time, so it was a great surprise and pleasure to see that he lost none of his edge before calling it a life.
It's sweet that he was given full rein to delve into sports writing as much as he always wanted to but rarely could on a regular basis (his old Ali pieces still reign supreme in the genre). But what really makes this book work is HST's refusal to ignore the insanity and fraud of the War On Freedom, sorry, Terror, of Bush and Cheney and friends. As if he could!
Thompson links sports and politics together in a number of memorably and typically inimitable essays that hit home hard, and will be seen as very prescient in a decade or two.
The seceret of Hunter S Thompson's writing is that while it looks like he's having a big old party and being a wiseass, he's also hitting the nail so damn straight on the head that most of America is still quite a few years from understanding how sadly accurate he usually is.
There's some very fine writing here; while not up to his best 70s work (Shark Hunt is still THE HST tome, methinks), much of Hey Rube is excellent, and anyone who's ever made a sports bet or three will identify, laughingly, with Hunter's oft hilarious tales of wagering.
The kicker is that the HST attitude and bite was still fully intact forty years on, and that's pretty impressive in a world of sellouts.

This book (2004) and "Kingdom of Fear" (2003) appear to be the last of HST's books. While "Hey Rube" contains lengthy discussions of gambling on professional football and basketball (including "March Madness"), "Kingdom of Fear" is more far-ranging, containing everything from Thompson's reminiscences of his youth to his (highly negative) thoughts on George W. Bush.

The quality of the writing of the recent pieces in both books is not quite up to that of his best from the past, but is still infinitely better than the mindless slop produced by other contemporary "writers." The man was an artist.

As always, one of the disturbing things about Thompson is his ability to assess politics correctly in real time. Reading back, you think "Why didn't people take this man seriously at the time?"

"Indeed," as Doc would say.

I'm heartbroken. I admit it. I'm not a year around sports nut. I don't watch games all the time. I don't even get ESPN. And I've never allowed myself to get sucked into the uber-geeky world of fantasy leagues. But the Bears are special for me. And if you let yourself care enough, you'll get hurt. It's unavoidable. You can't experience the thrills without being vulnerable to the pain. Especially the way it happened. With the Bears jumping to a lead within the first 14 seconds, and having a nice action-packed first quarter, I couldn't help but believe. But the Colts managed to dominate. And what hurts the most, what's got me down, is that the Colts won by out Bearing the Bears. They played good hard-nosed defense and then wore down the Bears defense with a relentless running attack. Oh well. I still think Peyton's a bit of a goober but the Indiana coach seems to be a real class act, so I'll try and be happy for them. And I know it's just a game. There are bigger crises in the world. There are bigger crises in my life for that matter. Still, it hurts. This goes down in my top five for losses that hurt, along with the Bears of the late 80's being eliminated in the playoffs by the Redskins and then the Niners, and maybe along with some of those Nebraska victories over Colorado. Particularly those real close ones in that painful, smarmy Neuheisal era.

So when the soul is truly in pain, where else would I go for comfort but Hunter S? I didn't even know about this book until recently. I didn't know he was writing a regular column for ESPN's web site. But he was and these columns are among the last writings we'll have for him. And what better a topic for Mr. Thomson than gambling? Hunter was at his best when writing about those little vices, those things that can be wonderful, even enlightening, in the right doses, but much more entertaining to read about when they are pushed to and beyond the limits of self-destruction. Great stuff.

By the chance of timing, almost a twisted kind of serendipity, this collection contains a generous allotment of Mr. Thomson's political writings as well. The collection spans a period of time containing the Presidential coup in which Bush stole the election from Al Gore and then 9-11 and its aftermath as well. There is an essay written by Thomson dated September 11th, 2001, written that evening following the attack, with classic Thomson vitriol, filled with his trademark fear and loathing, as well as some paranoia that history reveals to be more prescient than delusional, warning that the power that be would use the tragedy of the terrorist attacks to justify further tragedy of an even grander scale. That may be near universal sentiment in hindsight but remember back to that time to realize how deranged and treacherous that would have sounded to the average citizen. Certainly to the chattering hens in the mainstream news media, who couldn't give the American public credit for anything more sophisticated than black and white thinking.

A great voice is gone. I suspect he may have been trying to commit suicide by lifestyle for decades, but when that repeatedly failed, he finally had to take more direct action. And the Chicago Bears are not the world champions. Maybe I should admit that the NFC really is a weak division this year. Or maybe the Bears got what they deserve for playing the entire game with their safeties twenty yards back, trying to win by being the more conservative team. With that mentality, not even the point spread could help Bears benefactors. What would Hunter have said?

In less then a month I devoured all of the Chandler Brother books and what fun it was! These books aren't meant to stir deep thoughts or cause some major emotional melt down. They are fun and easy to read, the characters are personable and the mother is a trip! In any event, if you are looking for a good book say to read at the beach or by the fire, these are it!

I really like Carly Phillips as a writer. She has nice flow from one book to another. Looking forward to getting some more of her series. The Bachelor, The Player, and The Heartbreaker, follow the three Chandler brothers, not looking for love, but ultimately finding it. Thanks in part to their mother. All three of these are fast and light reading. If you are looking for a laugh, go get this series.

First of all, this book was horribly written. All the lines coming out of the characters mouths were cheesy and predictable. This woman is not a writer. Next, the whole premise for the book is unrealistic. The big secret a presidential candidate had to hide was that he'd adopted a child... Wow, what a horrible thing to do. The idea that the politician's staff would then try and kill the biological father to erase the problem is stupid. After many books read, this is the first time I've felt compelled to write a review. This is how bad this book is.

Concluding the trilogy with the oldest Chandler brother was an eventful read.

Chase was the brother I was most looking forward to. So since I like going in order, needless to say, I was a little impatient to get to the Heartbreaker. While I can't say it was worth the wait, it wasn't a complete disappointment.

Chase was as I expected plus a lot more. As in the first book with the hero, I found I could not like the heroine that well, Sloane. Although I enjoyed her story, I didn't like her too much, and could not see her with Chase at all. Again it seemed more sex than substance. While I could tell he cared for her, I thought she would be better suited for another type of guy.

All in all it was a good story with a great hero.

Newspaper publisher Chase Chandler had to grow up fast. When his father passed away, Chase gave up his dreams to become a foreign correspondent so that he could help raise his brothers and run the family paper. While Chase is in DC visiting his brother and sister-in-law, he heads into a bar for a nightcap, There he spots a sexy vision in pink and after a torrid night of sex, she has left him without a trace, but with plenty of memories...

That vision happens to be Sloane Carlisle - the privileged daughter of Senator Michael Carlisle - who has just found out that he's not her biological father. She flees to her mother's home town in search of answers. Chase is asked by the senator's current wife to keep an eye on Sloane since she will be in his neck of the woods; if he agrees, Carlisle will promise him an exclusive. Imagine his surprise when Chase discovers that his siren and the senator's daughter is the same woman. But someone does not want Sloane to dig into her background, and Chase must protect the woman he lusts from evil-doing.

Phillips conclusion to the Chandler brothers trilogy has plenty of steam, and a sexy hero, but the heroine is kind of flat, and the story contains such trite and unrealistic dialogue, resulting in an uneven and disappointing end to the series.

Taylor is back in fine form.


After an introductory altercation at Walker's request, with a man with a powerful artefact, John Taylor is put on the trail of a man who apparently has a DVD of evidence of the afterlife.

After this, Taylor (and succubus reporter sidekick from the Nightside tabloid that is employing him) go out and do what Taylor does best.

Green continues to come up with new and bizarre Nightside residents and visitors with cages for John to rattle.

As long as he can make it past the Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Another good entry in the series.


3.5 out of 5

Hi,
I love Simon Green's Nightside series because he comes up with something ne all the time. This series is original and captivating, bring you head first into a place of crazy, creepy people. There are always suprises and John Taylor(aka the main character) is Wonderful and mysterious. Everything tends to connect during his books in the weirdest of ways and, sometimes, the good guy wins! :)
Hope you all enjoy!

This was a good read, but like the rest of the series some what short. Nice for a good quick fun and exciting read. The romance was funny and entertaining.

Green is always entretaining, but the last two books of the nightside felt like they were written at the same time and he just changed a few things. Basically the same plot, just the thing he was looking for changed. It is a shame because I have always enjoyed his books, hopefully he will give us something fresh next time.

THE UNNATURAL INQUIRER (Para. Mystery-John Taylor-Nightside) - G
Green, Simon R - 8th in series
Ace, 2008, US Hardcover - ISBN: 9780441015580

First Sentence: One of the many problems with working as a private eye, not counting all the many people who want to kill you, often for perfectly good reasons, is that you have to wait for the work to come to you.

PI John Taylor has been hired by Nightside's gossip newpaper, The Unnatural Inquirer. Pen Donavon, who claims to have received a television broadcast showing evidence of the Afterlife. Pen burned the broadcast to DVD, offered exclusive rights to the newspaper, and then disappeared. Taylor, with Inquirer reporter Bettie Divine by his side, is to find Donavon and the DVD.

There are a lot of other very dangerous and ugly beings after the disk and out to stop Taylor along the way.

There is a lot of very descriptive violence in this book. There is also humor and Green's outrageous imagination that keeps me coming back to the Nightside.

This was not my favorite of the series. Bettie is too mild a character to make her really interesting. Shotgun Susie only has a minor role and the other characters come and go so quickly, the book lacks the element of suspense and real horror which makes the offsetting humor work so well.

Even so, I shall still return to the Nightside.