Knives Books

Mark Rogers writes a heady mix of sword/sorcery, .... and political machinations unlike anything I've found in decades of reading. In Hollywood high-concept parlance, you could say Karl Edward Wagner's Kane meets Machiavelli in the Kama Sutra, mixed with odd religious overtones. I have several of Mark's paintings hanging in my house and they ooze the same tension of .... freedom and impending violence that his writing puts into more specific terms. Other reviews on this page will give more of a plot line; I just want to recommend for the stout of heart, that this is a series worth reading. I only give it four stars because you do need to read the first two books to fully enjoy the ride. Nicely demented!!

To have gotten to this book you hopefully will have read "Blood & Pearls", and "Jagutai & Lilitu" before hand. This book continues where they left off and is the exciting end of the Zancharthus series.

Mark E. Rogers has a style of his own. It blends Dark Fantasy, Horror, and Erotica all into a single hot firebrand of a style. His writing is not for the faint of heart or those easily offended. When he describes love. He does it well. However, when he describes EVIL, INSANITY, LUST, and many other potentially dark emotions he does them exceedingly well. Why? Simply, because he holds nothing back in writing and it is obvious when you read his books that he has a vivid imagination when it comes to describing these things. Some scenes are so vivid it will leave you wondering if he was sitting over in the corner of a room watching the lustful scenes unfold and jotting down notes on a sheet of paper. Seriously, he is VERY good at describing these things.

This book culminates with the scene that starts Zorachus. Zorachus is Zancharthus son and Mark actually wrote Zorachus first. Zorachus is one of my all time favorite books. So, of course I simply had to read the rest.

If you liked the first two books in this series then this book will captivate you just as much and will leave you wondering where you just were when you get done with the book.

So, treat yourself to a good book.

One note these books are intended for a mature audience. I would consider them an NC-17 rating if I were in charge of rating. So, with that in mind. Get ready for a great book!!

Veteran story-teller Mark E. Rogers hits the bullseye again in this Khymerian novel. The book includes black magic, political intrigue, spiders the size of the Titanic (hungry too!), and finally redemption! How could you not like this book? If you've read his other Khymerian novels then you owe it to yourself to find this one with all dispatch and curl up for a good read. One caveat, as a dad, don't leave the book lying in a place the youngsters can pick it up!

It made me cry. And there's a giant spider big enough to capture entire ships. (Sorry, I just finished reading it and am too emotionally wrung-out to go into much detail.^_^)

This is the way a fantasy novel should be. This book pulls no punches and delivers a healthy dose of magic, violence, sex, and even a little humor as well. This is the third book of the Zancharthus series. It is also in my opinion the best of the series. Events from the previous books all play a role in developing the story. They also help to develop the characters and it is very enjoyable to follow their progression over the three books.

i've read all the death dealer books, own all them for several years. they have a special place in my mini-library of roughly 50-75 books. they are one of the series that i continuously reread. like the previous reviews, they are hard to find, but once you acquire them, they (to me) become more precious than gold. i've found all of them in a book store, or have had to order them through this website and barnes and noble. read the books, then you'll look at the new books differently.

This is by far the best epic fantasy I have read since reading Conan thirty years ago. It has everything: It's full of what you'd expect from the old style sword and sorcery novels. It is written well enough to be up there with the best of them, and kept me hooked from beginning to end. After finishing Prisoner of the Horned Helmet, I bought the rest of the books in the series and have never looked back. I envy people with the talent that James Silke has.

I wouldn't say I am person to read fantasy books nor a ficton reader to begin with. My father has a huge collection of books. I was looking through his books one time I saw four books with really cool covers. I was looking at the books to read one for a High School Book Report. So I picked up the first one because of its awesome cover. Read the book in one day! Couldn't put it down. Then I read the 2nd one the next day and so forth till all four were done. It's a shame the books are not easy to come by any more. I was fortunate my dad had already had all four. This is by far the best series I have ever read or will read!

i am a fantasy buff to the max and have read literally thousands of books in the fantasy sci fi genre. i own quite a bit of money and spend the majority of it on books. but one day while looking in a used book store in san antonio texas i purchesed the death dealer series and have not bought another book since. i feel now that no book will ever compare in shear brillance of imagery and wording. James Silke is a true artist and genius. i would do anything to read more books from him. i have tried to purchase the mint condition set of these books but to no avail. and to this day my original set are my most prized possesions. if Mr Silke is reading this please publish more on the tale of Gath of Baal and Robin Lakehair and Brown John. i would seriously do anything to read more stories. i had thought at one time you may write an off branch of the years Gath left Robin between book 2 and 3. but i am afraid not. to anyone looking for the perfect book this whole series is it

thank you, kyle whiting

I am not an avid reader who spends time reading books. I like to do other things with my time. Then one day i was at the library and saw the cover. I said,"I'll get this one." Before you know it I had finished the book in 2 days, no other fantasy books have ever kept me readin like this except for the dragonlance books and so i looked for the 1st and 3rd books in the series to complete my readin but to no avail. All in all this book is fantastic, so if you are looking for a great fantasy novel this is the one to get. Dont take my word for it, read the other reveiws(and the book)and you'll see what i mean.

this is the most thorough comprehensive clearly written and amusing book that I've seen on all things knife - how to choose what you need, what's the difference between the expensive choices, how to keep a screaming sharp edge, clear guidelines and different chefy cuts and terminology. really excellent. wish I could say I still have it but my son stole it as soon as he saw it.

I read this book cover to cover in a single sitting. I found it easy to read and understand as well as a few laughs along the way. This book will become a permanent resource in my kitchen library for a long time. I highly recommend this book to any one with and interest in kitchen cutlery, cutting boards, knife cuts, maintenance of both knives and cutting boards with even a few recipes included. It is also a great resource for suppliers of various related goods and services.

An excellent resource that is already a reference I keep returning to. It covers all the bases: it contains a buyers guide, a sharpening guide and an overview of essential knife skills.

A good read too -- Mr. Ward has a good sense of humor and a concise writing style. Overall, highly recommended.

With a measured dose of wry humor and thoughtful commentary, Chad Ward debunks the myths and dispels the mysteries of the most essential, yet misunderstood, and under appreciated tool in the kitchen, the humble cook's knife. Whether you're a seasoned home cook, a confused beginner, or a professional cook, you'll undoubtedly benefit from Mr. Ward's comprehensive knowledge which he freely shares in an unintimidating, easily understood style. Bridging the chasm between professional culinary texts and the limited information available to the home cook in various cookbooks, he covers all the critical subjects associated with choosing, using, maintaining, sharpening, and even cleaning up after using a good knife. This book will make a fine, if not essential addition to the reference library of your favorite cook, knife enthusiast, or anyone who simply wants to know more about how to use and maintain the knives in his or her kitchen.

As an amateur cook, I appreciate how the book has been written. Easy enough for an amateur to understand and detailed enough to satisfy the most demanding of knife users. I found it to be informative, interesting, a terrific source of information and an insight into how professional knives are used and cared for.

As a professional butcher block builder, I found his detailed information is right on the money and very detailed.

When you buy the book, be prepared to be informed and educated and be ready to laugh out loud at his wit and humor.

This book is fascinating! To be able to view these knives in full color, and see the old black and white pictures of soldiers of the Civil war is just a delight. I make custom knives, and this book gives me hours of creative enjoyment. A great bargain for the price!!!---Jon

Excellent Pictures and stories. I would like to see more information about the knife makers and markings applicable to each maker.

I purchased this book as a gift for my uncle. It is well worth the money! It is a coffee table-type book with thick heavy pages and LOTS of beautifully detailed photos. His only negative comment when I gave it to him was, "That is a dagger on the cover!" and He knows his knives!! I guess the publisher doesn't know what a bowie knife looks like. If you like bowie knives or know someone who does, this is a perfect book.

Many knife collectors will welcome this edition to their bookshelves. The high numbers of high quality knifemakers and eager customers in recent years has created a natural interest in the early beginnings of the uniquely American Bowie knife that needs to be satisfied. Mr.Flayderman has heard the calling and has delivered in abundance. There is something for everybody in this book. The quality of documentary evidence is commendable and I even liked the pictures but don't think of this as a coffee table book. There is more here than can be covered in this humble review. The owner of this edition will return to it again and again and will glean yet another glimpse of our American history when the country was young and wild. If knives are of interest to you this book will serve.

Excellent book. I was a little leary of spending $80 bucks on a book but than remembered the last time, and did't purchase the "Antique Bowie Knife Book" Glad I did purchase this book I think it is everthing the Antique Bowie Book is and more. Wonderful pictures of Bowie knives as well as alot litature on them also. Nice addition is the actual pitures of people and the knives they carried.. If you area Bowie collector and don't own "The Antique Bowie Knife Book" you will be please with this If you do own it you may not think its woth it since alot of thwe same knives are covered

I am fascinated by the book's descriptions of the design-rationale behind each of Spyderco's many knives.

Also, the book describes the management philosophy and practice at the Spyderco company. Fascinating insight into what makes Spyderco knives so good!

A nice feature of the book is that it can be read in bits and pieces. It has lots of glossy photos. It reminds me of reading National Geographic magazine. Parts are nice for casual browsing, other parts have in-depth description.

If I have my pants on, I'm carrying a Spyderco knife! If your Spyderco knife is indispensible, I'm confident you'll like this book!

I bought this book for my knife collecting husband who not only loves Spyderco, but is an avid reader. He immediately read the book from cover to cover and refers to it on what seems to be a daily basis. He routinely reads passages to me when we're discussing his knives and why he prefers Spyderco over all others. If you know someone who likes folding knives at all, BUY THIS BOOK!

If you are looking for the perfect gift for a knife collector/user or anyone interested in knives, THIS IS THE PERFECT GIFT.

As one who has none of these characteristics, I found the book fascinating- an intriguing look at a world I knew nothing about. The final chapter is an unexpected gold mine of ideas and insights into a company, Spyderco, whose philosophy is guided by integrity ... "being good even if no one is watching".

You'll buy this book because it's the definitive book about a great knife company and its products. When you read it, you will get a lot more...you will learn about the company they call "the mouse with a megaphone" and it's no Mickey Mouse either!

I am fascinated by the book's descriptions of the design-rationale behind each of Spyderco's many knives.

Also, the book describes the management philosophy and practice at the Spyderco company. Fascinating insight into what makes Spyderco knives so good!

A nice feature of the book is that it can be read in bits and pieces. It has lots of glossy photos. It reminds me of reading National Geographic magazine. Parts are nice for casual browsing, other parts have in-depth description.

If I have my pants on, I'm carrying a Spyderco knife! If your Spyderco knife is indispensible, I'm confident you'll like this book!

You can buy throwing knives at http://www.yourbestdeals.net/1_s/50.htm .

Throwing Knives

This story collection won the 2001 Oregon Book Award for fiction. Judge Dorothy Allison commented as follows:
"Astute, passionate and unmistakably wonderful, these insightful stories are rendered in language as strong as the characters Tinsley portrays. these are stories of survivors-not victims-and in every instance they make exceptional choices, choices that show us more about what is possible in the stubborn human soul. Prehaps what is most affecting is the way Tinsley's people reach toward each other rather than withdrawing into themselves. It has been years since I have read a collection that so strengthened my own resolve about the ability of the most desperate of us to confront and surmount the awful choices of our lives. this is a powerful writer working at the limits of her talen-great talent and great work."

Awarded Ohio State's Sandstone Prize in Short Fiction, these finely crafted short stories are precise and concise explorations of character. Molly Best Tinsley has assembled an assortment of individuals, then strategically moved them through situations that feel familiar, yet are driven by intense psychological undercurrents. These are characters whom the reader comes to know intimately, with each sentence containing essential clues that increasingly build suspense and the keen desire to know how the many tensions and ambiguities play out. In "Zoe," a precocious adolescent, largely self-defined by a fragile vanity and contempt for her mother's array of lovers, struggles with the chaos of her home life and sexual awakening, poised at the edge of an emotional abyss before an unlikely relationship subtly illuminates the nature of her distress. In "Square Zero," another vulnerable adolescent, framed by an array of characters nervously trying to achieve normalcy at a holiday dinner, buckles under the uncertainty of where and with whom she belongs. And in five interrelated stories that give the collection its name, a preadolescent girl struggles to survive the dislocation that her father's Navy career demands. This life, which nearly claims the health and spirit of her mother, serves as a backdrop for the girl's acquaintance with dark secrets leading to friendship and forces that gradually erode her innocence. In "Figure Drawing," an older woman on her honeymoon with a man who habitually confronts and conquers senseless hardship and risk witnesses the emergence of her husband's true character when true, but meaningful risk presents itself. And, surprisingly, it is she -- whose instinct is to deal with transience and unpredictability by accepting and briefly embracing them through art -- who is better equipped to survive. In many of these stories, people act in ways that often are surprising, even alarming. Some chose dark paths. Yet -- ultimately resourceful, driven to explore their options, and intent upon realizing personal truths that will allow them to experience life more fully and honestly -- they prove that their choices were not necessarily wrong. For many of this author's older characters, difficult decisions and discoveries arise from a sense that time is running out, that they are not doing what they want to be doing, are not who they thought they would be, or are not with the people who give them what they need. A gradually blossoming self-awareness is the key to many of these studies of character, rendered with economical prose, clarity, fresh, tactile images and nuanced humor. This collection is too good to be read once. Rereading is an opportunity to dig deeper, sifting through the ironies and complexities of the human heart.

These stories cling to you and won't let go; reading the book over a period of several days, I felt as though Tinsley's characters - quirky, vulnerable, ironic, and compellingly human - were lodged in my mind. Tinsley's writing manages to both accessible and alluringly elliptical; she has the short story writer's gift for suggesting a whole world with a few deft strokes. Perhaps most haunting are the five linked stories that trace the fortunes of a Navy family posted in California

and then Sweden. Cynthia, the oldest child and narrator of the stories, finds herself a social outcast - unable to communicate with her Swedish peers and mocked for her inability to pick up French at L'Ecole Francaise Internationale. By default she develops a friendship with "the persistent Pia," as Cynthia's father dubs her, an intense and eccentric girl who draws Cynthia into strange games of pretend violence. Meanwhile, Cynthia's brittle mother, temperamentally ill- suited to the part of Navy wife, succumbs first to a debilitating case of pneumonia and then to the thrall of the scrupulously vegetarian Dr. Ramaswami; when she mows down the beloved stand of iris Cynthia has discovered, in order to use it as a centerpiece for the dinner to which Dr. Ramaswami is invited, Cynthia experiences it as a personal violation. Sex is lurking around the edges of these stories, and indeed brackets them: from the innocent quasi-sexual encounter the younger Cynthia stumbles into in the first of these five stories ("Throwing Knives"), to her more deliberate - although still ambivalent - venture into sexual experimentation in the last ("Everyone Catch on Love").

The relationship between parents and children - mothers and daughters in particular - figures in several other stories in the collection. A precocious young girl subtly betrays her laissez-faire mother by forging an alliance with the mother's latest boyfriend, a fix-it man who decides it's time to rout the starlings from under the eaves of the house. A divorced mother hosts a Christmas dinner that includes a kind of surrogate family - the gay couple next door and their two unruly dogs - only to discover that her troubled grown daughter won't let go of the resentments she harbors. A widow whose adult children "both stick to the West Coast and change addresses often" tries to make a connection with a surly but talented young woman in her art class.

Throughout, Tinsley's stories shimmer with humor and memorable detail. One minor character, an immunologist at NIH, ostentatiously puts a spoon back into a pot of soup after sticking it in his mouth: "He is always ready to deliver his losing-battle speech on microbes-their power and numbers versus the frail and futile dream of antisepsis (`picture the Kennedy Center packed with cockroaches, and you've got one can of Raid')." And Tinsley's endings resist the temptation to tie up all loose ends. They suggest more than they say, and leave you pondering the possibilities.

TOP QUALITY BOOK WITH EXCELLENT PHOTOS AND ARTICLES. A MUST FOR ALL REAL ENTHUSIASTIC KNIVE MAKERS AND COLLECTORS.

As a custom knifemaker I'm always excited to see new publications related to the collected works of knifemaking. Of very special interest to me are those books which focus on the art and ingenuity of custom art knives; books which explore the art not only with good photography of quality knives but also with accompanying text providing insight into the methods and intent of the maker. Truly this area of artistic endeavor has been but scarcely examined and over the years I've found only a few books which approach these criteria and which, for the most part, now sit on my bookshelves. There have, however, been two books I've come to treasure above the others; Art and Design in Modern Custom Fixed-Blade Knives and Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives, both by Dr. David Darom.

In these books can be found not only the exquisite photography which occurs occasionally in other collective works but also a depth of writing exploring the knifemaker and his focus on the knives being regarded. With his writing Dr. Darom provides rare and wonderful insight into the world of knives which transports the reader, both those experienced as well as novice, to a higher level of understanding the unique experience of knifemaking. His critical selection of art knives and insistence on only the highest quality of photographs reproduced using top quality printing methods and materials have created the finest art knife books I have ever owned. Coupled with Darom's focus on quality is Amazon.com's ability to bring this treasure to the public for an amazingly low price. I applaud Dr. Darom's efforts and welcome the long awaited USA release of Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives. It is my hope Dr. Darom continues to explore the rich and diverse field of custom knifemaking and finds it worthy of producing future volumes not unlike this one.

In short; Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives is without a doubt indispensable to both professional and the enthusiast alike. This book is of such fine quality I truly must wonder at the ability to offer it for so low a price and advance the suggestion this serves to make it the perfect unique table book or addition to any fine art book collection.

-Charles Kain

I want to say right up front that I am David Darom's partner in his third knife book, "The Art of Modern Custom Knifemaking, 100 Custom Knife Related Projects in the Making" (soon to be released). I very much wanted to write this review, but because of my current relationship with David I was concerned that some might question my motives. But I can tell you that I would not have even met David had it not been for this incredible book.

I first heard about "Art & Design in Modern Custom Folders" a couple of months prior to its release. I am a part-time knifemaker, and a member of a group of online forums that are devoted to custom knifemaking. David had "teased" us with sample photos from his soon-to-be-released book. And the preliminary taste worked...Like most of our 7000+ members, I was more than a little bit intrigued.

Hard bound, printed in Italy, 260 full-color pages filled with breathtaking photos of the some of the most exquisite knives in the world... The book sounded incredible and I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy. And so with the single-minded goal of acquiring my own copy, when the book had its world premier at New York's annual East Coast Custom Knife Show, I drove up with a few friends.

When we arrived I made a beeline for David's table...I was fortunate enough to meet him, if only for a few minutes (he was swamped with fellow enthusiasts trying to get their own copies). The meeting was brief but enjoyable...and I got what I came for...my own signed copy of the exciting new book.

As soon as I got home I dove in...Every page was a delight and I spent hours and hours fully immersed. David's love for his subject matter was apparent...Never before had we seen such a collection of photos...no props, no distracting backgrounds, just page after page of beautifully-done, world class photography, that showed off the knives in all of their glorious detail.

Needless-to-say, I couldn't wait to tell all of my online friends about this wonderful new book and I posted my own review, followed by much discussion. This ultimately led to an ongoing, long-distance correspondence with David. We became good friends. Several months later he asked me to write an article for his second knife book,"Art and Design in Modern Custom Fixed-Blade knives"...and that experience eventually led to our partnership in the 3rd book.

Not a week goes by when I don't refer to my copy of "Art & Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives"...The pages are now quite dog-eared. I have a sizeable collection of knife-related books and magazines, but this is easily my single, most often used resource for inspiration and ideas.

Am I prejudiced? Absolutely! But I can say without reservation that for overall production value and presentation, David has set the bar high with this book. Nothing else out there comes close. The skill and love that went into the making of this magnificent "coffee table" book of museum quality, folding art knives is unequaled. This masterpiece led me to David...And I am honored to have become his friend and associate.

It is impossible to glance at even one page of this book without being completely drawn in. If you are a knife enthusiast, or if you simply appreciate any form of extraordinary art and craftsmanship, this book is a joy to own.

Dennis Greenbaum

the book gives concise information on all aspects of the pattern welded blade. A great how to on billet building, forging the pattern, and completing to finished blade.

This book is not intended for a novice at forge work. But if you have already hammered hot steel, and want to try something more challenging this book gives you all the information you will ever need about making forge welded blades. This book is an absolute must have for anyone who wants to start making pattered blades. The third of Dr. Hrisoulas' books, buy the other two as well (although if you're experienced enough to want this book, you've probably already got the others) and you won't need to ever buy another book on blade forging again. Buy this book. Buy it right now.

If you've read the author's previous books you will find some repetition (e.g., workshop, materials, weights, measures, compounds) yet this book really delves in-depth into the art of pattern-welding like no other I've read. It's his shortest book too, for that matter, but it really delivers on topic. You will learn everything you need to know to begin making stunning, functional Damascus creations. Well written, well illustrated, and very well done!

Lawrence Kane
Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction

This is another book that the custom knife collector must have in their library. Except for magazines, there is no other series of books that I've seen that will get the collector drooling.

Jim's photography is first rate.

I love every picture in this book series! If you can only purchase one book on custom knives this would be it. Beautifully photographed by master cutlery photographer Jim Weyer. Each page brings out the knife artistry with wonderful color, detailed settings and perfect lighting. This is a excellent book to have in your personal 'Knife Library' or as a table book to show friends the beauty of custom knives. Stunning!

The Knives-Points Of Interest series is an example of how good a picture book can be. All the displaid knives are perfect in their form. Most of the knives are made by US-knivemakers. The photographs are very good.A must for the knife-enthusiast. Only drawback: Very very poor binding.

The author of this book is a shining light and her words bring love and healing. The story teaches children to trust in their inner resources and to know that they are always loved and protected wherever they are. When I first read it to my five year old daughter she said it was her favourite story. She looked at the photo on the back and recognized the dog from the story. She decided she knew the dog and loved her. Its a favourite for us at bedtime and it is helping me teach my daughter to trust her own heart and to feel safe in the world.

As an adult reading this book, I am so touched by it. It warms my heart. It is a wonderful picture book that I have also given as a gift to a dear friend, whose daughter is 24 months old. She so loves to have it read to her! And she loves to follow along with the colorful artwork.

Is a wonderful story to all those who want to introduce a love and appreciation of Nature and the Love of Spirit to their young children....is a lesson to older children of the Love and caring a Mother provides, yet how they can find their own way when necessary....and to young and old alike, a reminder of the Spirit of Nature in all things and how we are a part of it All.

Perfect as a gift for your children and friends! Opens discussions about Nature and Love and things "a Mother would do"!

What a Mother Would Do is a delightful book about the inner spirit and the discovery of Trust and Hope. Although written as a children's book, the story within these pages, is a book for the child within all of us. Ms. Rivers helps us to find that place of safety within each of us, that place of a mother's heart, which keeps us going when we feel lost. Reading this simple, lyrical story of a little girl lost and then found, reminds us of the sweetness of inner truths that are so easily ignored during our hectic everyday lives.