Texas Books

Mr. Myers wrote this book in 1948, and based it on careful research into the facts as they were known at the time. THE ALAMO is a story of heroic men, dedicated to the cause of freedom, sacrificing their lives willingly for that cause. Bowie, Crockett, Travis, and all the others with them, were the stuff of legends, and as such we should remember them. This is a story to rival THE ILLIAD in its nobility of character and cause. Sadly, later research has shown that these giants were, like the Trojans, at least partialy the product of myth, and their cause was not quite so noble. But this in no way detracts from the telling of a great tale, and, if the men of the Alamo were not quite as tall as we imagined them, they were still men deservant of our admiration. They died for what they believed in, and this is their story, from the first man who ever bothered to compile the whole thing in one place.

Although written in 1948, John Myers Myers "The Alamo", proves that he did his homework well way back then. As a result, the factual conclusions he arrived at then, dovetail with those arrived at by other Alamo authors in later years, including Walter Lord. Myers writing presents the subject in a historicly accurate manor, but at the same time with the wit and insight of a newspaper editorial, which brings it to life on a human level.

Although written in 1948, John Myers Myers "The Alamo", proves that he did his homework well way back then. As a result, the factual conclusions he arrived at the time of his writing, dovetail with those arrived at in later years by other Alamo authors, including Walter Lord. Myers writing presents the subject in a historicly accurate manor, but at the same time with the wit and insight of a newspaper editorial, bringing it to life on a human level.

Newer books have been written based on more recently available sources, but this book stands the test of time. It is based on solid research, it doesn't spend entire chapters digressing into, for instance, the ins and outs of the Bowies' business dealings, and it keeps speculation on the motivations of Travis, Crockett, Bowie and Santa Anna to a couple of paragraphs each. Any speculation is just the author's guesswork, and I find Myers guesses to be kept more brief - and more to my personal taste - than, say, William C. Davis' in "Three Roads to the Alamo". It has been said that a revisionist is one who, lacking the notion of honor in his/her own character, cannot understand it when encountered in others. While Myers examines the actions of the three main personalities in a journalistic manner, the enormity of their patriotic sacrifice is never deprecated as is the fashion in modern, revisionist historical writing.

This book remains not only the best single volume on the siege, it provides a great introduction to the historic and social melieu of the era for those seeking to understand the background of the Mexican-American War. -

John Myers Myers, in the last sentences of his book, The Alamo, perfectly captures the essence of what this story means to America. He writes, "The Alamo isn't a structure now; it is a symbol of valor in the minds of men. It can never fall again." Though he closes with that thought, it is obvious that he wrote this history with the knowledge that this particular event is just as important as myth as it is as history, and that it presents unique challenges to the historian to distinguish between the two. In the forward, he addresses the issue of how hard it is to find solid, historical evidence about the Alamo. The combatants were killed to a man, and as for the non-combatants who survived to tell their tales, none were professional writers, and no historian bothered to interviewed any of them during their lifetimes. He explains in some detail how he decided the veracity of the various surviving source materials: letters, journals, official orders of the Mexican officers, and interviews of survivors. He then launches into the tale.
Myers divides his book into three sections. The first third is devoted to the history of the structure of the Alamo, from mission to military outpost, and to the history of the roots of the conflict between the Texians and Mexico. This is vital information to understanding what happened at Bexar during those fateful twelve days in 1836. The fact that Myers devotes so many pages to explaining this background and placing the story in its proper historical context is one of the books strongest points.
In the second third of the book, Myers introduces the principal players who history associates with the Alamo - Bowie, Travis, Crockett, and Santa Anna. A chapter is devoted to each of them, and Myers does an admirable job of placing each within the context of their own personal histories without resorting to what later became so controversial as detracting "revisionism". He notes that while Bowie and Crockett were already legends in their own time, that Travis' fame is tied exclusively to his participation in the Texian revolution. He solidly establishes who they were as flesh and blood men, rather than the demigods of myth that they became, yet does so respectfully. Likewise, he paints a balanced portrait of Santa Anna rather than simply demonizing him.
In the book's final section, Myers writes skillfully of the siege and storming of the Alamo. It is a tale that comes with its own in-built drama, which requires only an expert storyteller to assure its success, and Myers is indeed an outstanding storyteller. He has an idiosyncratic style of writing that lends itself perfectly to the telling of this particular tale. Throughout, he is generally faithful to the more traditional interpretations of what happened at Bexar, but does acknowledge some of the elements that smack more of legend than of historical fact (such as Travis' saber-drawn line in the sand).
Myers has written a fine history of an event that has become an indispensable part of our national mythology. His research is firm, his writing style captivating, and his tone respectful to both the history and the legend. I heartily recommend it.

Theo Logos

Was the battle of the Alamo a stragetic blunder? Did Davy Crockett wear a coonskin cap? How did the Alamo's "Holy Trinity" really die? How many duels did famed knife-fighter James Bowie take part in?

These are only some of the questions answered in what must surely be the ultimate history of the Alamo--as a mission, a fortress and a shrine. Edmondson's writing is colorful and fact-crammed, carrying the reader forward with the breathless pace of a novel. Above all, he portrays history through the actions of the men who made it--James Bowie's quest for adventure and wealth; David Crockett's failures as a Congressman; William Travis' burning ambition for ever-lasting fame.

Edmondson has brilliantly captured the often harsh realities of life on the Texas frontier. Among these: the ineffective and lethal "treatment" for venereal disease--mercury; the support of many "freedom-loving" Texans for slavery; and the conflicts faced by Tejanos trying to remain loyal to their native Mexico while opposing the dictatorship of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna.

The climax of the narrative arrives in his full-length and dramatic account of the siege and fall of the mission. Edmondson presents all possible sides to every controversey, and allows the reader to reach his own conclusions. For example, on the death of James Bowie: Edmondson notes that Bowie was deathly ill at the time of the final assault, and thus highly unlikely to have piled corpses around his sickbed. Yet he also states that Bowie had proven a hard man to kill in the past--and thus makes the convincing case that if Bowie had had the strength to hold weapons, he would have used them.

Edmondson has taken a subject well-trodden by historians and novelists and re-created it for a new generation. In doing so, he has rendered scenes of stirring drama while emphasizing the shared humanity of the combatants on both sides.

This book was recommended to me by Alamo historian and artist, Michael Schreck. It is a good read. J.R. Edmundson obviously knows his subject. The narrative flows smoothly and avoids the tedium so often occuring in historical works. Not only is it a spirited and accurate telling of an oft-told story, but he is not afraid to challenge the views of the revisionist historicans that are now in fashion. I highly recommend this book to both the layman and scholar.

This book reads like a novel, but contains the facts of the historical event. Too bad Edmondson isn't writing for the school book market. History would be a favorite subject for kids.

Most people know about the battle at the Alamo, but don't know why this mission-turned-fort became the focal point of the confrontation between the Mexicans and Texians (yep, that's spelled right, read the book). Edmondson starts from the beginning to bring the reader up to the moment of siege and sacrific. The book begins as a fascinating read about Spain's early attempts to colonize the territory that would be come Texas. It moves into a fun read about favorite and familiar characters like Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and William Travis. Then the book takes the reader into the final 13 days that sealed the fate of those in the Alamo and set the course for Texas' separation from Mexico. Mark out a whole evening to read the last 212 pages, you won't be able to put it down. I sincerely hope Edmondson will be writing more history about Texas and the southwest. I for one, am waiting for his next book.

J.R. Edmondson's "The Alamo Story" eclipses Walter Lord's groundbreaking "A Time to Stand" as the finest narrative history of the Alamo available.
Written in an engaging, highly accessible style, Edmondson's book is a first rate introduction to Alamo history, but provides enough detail to capture the interest of even the most knowledgable Alamo scholar.
Highly recommended.

Jack Edmondson has done an exceptional job retelling the Alamo story. Students of James Bowie will be in for a real treat, since Jack devotes quite a bit to "that knife fighting adventurer" (as he was called in several movies). Edmondson never engages in "hero worship" which all-to-often clouds serious historical study.Nor does he indulge in "bashing" like Jeff Long did in "Duel of Eagles". Edmondson touches on the Crockett death controversey, but if you write about the Alamo, it's inevitable. If you are a serious researcher, Jack's book belongs on your shelf!

Anybody who has enjoyed other writings by Alexander Skutch on the subject of neotropical birds will also appreciate this book. After all, where else can you find interesting and informative writing about these two large and important families of neotropical birds? Not only is there a wealth of data concerning behavior, habitat, etc - but it is all presented in Skutch's very personal style, and intermingled with intimate anecdotes that really put you right there in the forest with that Bicolored Antbird, etc. Read this book before birding in lowland rainforest in Central or South America, and you will be rewarded with a much greater understanding of what you are witnessing. If you haven't yet, also read "A Birdwatcher's Adventures in Central America", and "A Naturalist in Costa Rica", as well as "Birds Asleep" - all by Alexander Skutch.

Anybody who has enjoyed other writings by Alexander Skutch on the subject of neotropical birds will also appreciate this book. After all, where else can you find interesting and informative writing about these two large and important families of neotropical birds? Not only is there a wealth of data concerning behavior, habitat, etc - but it is all presented in Skutch's very personal style, and intermingled with intimate anecdotes that really put you right there in the forest with that Bicolored Antbird, etc. Read this book before birding in lowland rainforest in Central or South America, and you will be rewarded with a much greater understanding of what you are witnessing. If you haven't yet, also read "A Birdwatcher's Adventures in Central America", and "A Naturalist in Costa Rica", as well as "Birds Asleep" - all by Alexander Skutch.

Anybody who has enjoyed other writings by Alexander Skutch on the subject of neotropical birds will also appreciate this book. After all, where else can you find interesting and informative writing about these two large and important families of neotropical birds? Not only is there a wealth of data concerning behavior, habitat, etc - but it is all presented in Skutch's very personal style, and intermingled with intimate anecdotes that really put you right there in the forest with that Bicolored Antbird, etc. Read this book before birding in lowland rainforest in Central or South America, and you will be rewarded with a much greater understanding of what you are witnessing. If you haven't yet, also read "A Birdwatcher's Adventures in Central America", and "A Naturalist in Costa Rica", as well as "Birds Asleep" - all by Alexander Skutch.

Anybody who has enjoyed other writings by Alexander Skutch on the subject of neotropical birds will also appreciate this book. After all, where else can you find interesting and informative writing about these two large and important families of neotropical birds? Not only is there a wealth of data concerning behavior, habitat, etc - but it is all presented in Skutch's very personal style, and intermingled with intimate anecdotes that really put you right there in the forest with that Bicolored Antbird, etc. Read this book before birding in lowland rainforest in Central or South America, and you will be rewarded with a much greater understanding of what you are witnessing. If you haven't yet, also read "A Birdwatcher's Adventures in Central America", and "A Naturalist in Costa Rica", as well as "Birds Asleep" - all by Alexander Skutch.

Anybody who has enjoyed other writings by Alexander Skutch on the subject of neotropical birds will also appreciate this book. After all, where else can you find interesting and informative writing about these two large and important families of neotropical birds? Not only is there a wealth of data concerning behavior, habitat, etc - but it is all presented in Skutch's very personal style, and intermingled with intimate anecdotes that really put you right there in the forest with that Bicolored Antbird, etc. Read this book before birding in lowland rainforest in Central or South America, and you will be rewarded with a much greater understanding of what you are witnessing. If you haven't yet, also read "A Birdwatcher's Adventures in Central America", and "A Naturalist in Costa Rica", as well as "Birds Asleep" - all by Alexander Skutch.

This book is one I have wanted for years. I have used it several times, successfully. Her tartar sauce can't be surpassed. A wonderful gift for anyone.

I seem to enjoy reading cookbooks in the same way other read novels. I found that this book had super recipes. I have been after the Neiman Marcus carrot cake recipe for years and years. Every-time I go to the cafe I just have to have the carrot cake it is my favorite. I always asked where I could get the recipe no one could tell me. I looked inside the Neiman Marcus Cookbook and they only had a picture of the carrot cake, no carrot cake recipe. I tried making the one in this book and it is fabulous. I think it tops the one at Neiman Marcus because it is homemade and fresh. I made it in a rectangle large brownie type baking dish (not a bundt) and added 1/2 cup raisins. It was fabulous. Next I am going to try making the monkey bread in my pop over molds. That sound super too. There are really many many great recipes in this book. I am very happy with my purchase.

This is such a great book. No matter what you want to cook, Helen has a recipe for it. All of the recipes are so good.

I will pass this book on to my children.

Cannon Flowers
DALLAS, TX

The Zodiac Room, at the top of the legendary Neiman-Marcus Department store, in downtown Dallas was my first real exposure to how wonderful food could be...my Mom was an excellent Texas cook, my Texan grandmothers were wonderful cooks as well. Their repertoire was traditional Texas fare...chili con carne, chicken fried steak with cream gravy,cream pies, fried okra, cheese enchiladas and so on...and I loved their food. I grew up in West Texas surrounded by amazing, delicious food.

But the first time I ate Helen Corbitt's Guinea Hen Madeira,her Crabmeat Chantilly, her Poppy Seed Dressing, my life changed. Her food at the Zodiac Room was amazing...it changed my life.

For the last twenty years I have cooked for a living and Helen Corbitt remains my primary inspiration.

I am so thrilled to see Helen Corbitt's recipes back in print. I place her in the late 20th century Cooks Pantheon next to James Beard, Julia Child, Adelle Davis and Martha Stewart.

Stewart Wise

This cookbook reintroduces Helen Corbitt, though if you have lived in Texas for years you are no doubt familiar with her. She became famous as the head of the restaurants of Neiman-Marcus department stores, and many Texans know her through her texas "caviar", hot fudge pecan balls, retro molded salads, fabulous "potluck" recipes, poppy seed dressing, and other Texas favorites. If you cannot find the original editions, this is certainly one to own. You will find yourself using it over and over again.

If you are from or are familiar with this area of the Texas Hill Country, all the details ring true. If you are a long time fan of Ben Rehder's then you will love this one. The man can't write a bad book!

This is a great light fun read. If you loved this book also check out the author C.J. Box and his Joe Pickett adventures which also follow a game warden based near a hunting culture small town filled with eccentric red necks, corrupt officials and other fun characters, his books are set in Wyoming. Both even have similar author photos complete with dogs and bucket hats or whatever they're called inside the back covers. Open Season (Joe Pickett Novels) is the first novel in that great series, check it out!

Bone Dry the sequel to Reheder's first novel Buck Fever picks up at the start of the next year's deer season from when that novel ended. It is important to note that you do not need to have read Buck Fever to enjoy or get the most out of this novel. Other than a reoccurring main character, game warden John Marlin, as well as other eccentric county residents who appear in each novel such as local rednecks Billy Don and Red. This series of fun adventures set in Blanco County Texas can be read in any order.

New characters who add to the storyline of Bone Dry include Inga, a smart supermodel quality blond Volvo driving conservationist. Inga isn't afraid to fill a hunter's ute with bullets. A nerdy even more extreme environmentalist Thomas Peabody is her travelling companion and determined to win Inga's favour by proving he is dedicated to the cause with even more and more dangerous stunts in the name of the environment.

Witness relocation mafia man Sal and his dim-witted son Vinnie who now run a tree clearing business also add to the fun. Fans of the Hollywood's horse in the head scene will be pleased with a scene created by Vinnie in this book which is the catalyst for a number of events putting this once powerful underworld figure in danger of being discovered. Smedley a morbidly obese US marshall who is a good but lazy and not to bright man assigned to keep tabs on Sal, Sal's housekeeper and poor immigrant Maria who Sal fears has the powers of a witch complicate the situation for this mafia family but add great enjoyment for the reader.

A lazy incompetent former big city cop will learn the hard way that city tactics don't work out in rural Texas nor does trying to force a confession as he investigates the shooting of a local hunter. An of course game warden John Marlin is the glue that holds this fun story together.

Read this series, it's good!

i didn't hesitate to pick up ben rehder's second book when i saw it and was not disappointed.....this book was even more fun than the first one.....peace mary

If you enjoyed the outrageous humor in Buck Fever about cross-species sexuality and good old boys poaching deer, you will be thrilled with Bone Dry. The talented Mr. Rehder has added more targets for his humor, made them funnier and further developed the excellent goofballs, Red O'Brien and Billy Don Craddock.

In Bone Dry, you will find Italian mobsters mixing it up with the local Texas drunks, a supermodel who uses her looks and her scent to save endangered species, lots of brush-busting and scams galore. In the middle of all the resulting mayhem, John Marlin, the Lone Ranger of game wardens, finds himself running the investigation into a hunter's suspicious death.

The book combines a satire of the Godfather, a Carl Hiaasen-type story about Texas, an excellent police procedural, lots of environmental lessons and a love story with enough irony to keep your eyes blinking with surprise for days. It's a remarkable, guffaw-inducing achievement.

Save this book for the next time you really need a good laugh.

I recommend that you also go on to read the latest book in the series, Flat Crazy, which is even better than Bone Dry.

I listened to the audio edition of this book and my comments pertain to that edition.

I read the first book in Rehder's Blanco County series last year and enjoyed it. When I got the chance to listen to the second on audio, I jumped at it. If possible, I liked the second even more than the first.

If you love the zany Floridian adventures of authors like Tim Dorsey and Carl Hiaasen, you will probably want to take a side trip to Blanco County. As those authors do, Rehder throws a bunch of semi-competent crooked folks (in this case including a Mafia family in hiding), a few well meaning folks (this time around it's a couple of tree-huggin' types trying to save a rare bird from all the brush clearing going on) and in the middle of it, a bemused decent good guy trying to sort out all the events. The center of the Blanco County novels is game warden John Marlin, who does his best to stay sane and sort out the string of bizarre events.

He has his hands full in this second book, as some bodies turn up, others go missing, and that's in between the eco-terrorism, county jail hostage stand-off, Marlin's personal life going to hell, and oh, yeah, opening week of hunting season. Rehder does a fine job of juggling multiple plot lines and a huge cast of supporting characters while keeping all the threads moving toward a neatly wrapped up conclusion. I could often see where the plot was going a few chapters ahead of time but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride nevertheless.

The unabridged audiobook is competently read (I'm sorry I don't have the name of the narrator). While nothing was particularly gained or lost by listening to the book rather than reading it, I didn't have to put the book down to do chores like washing dishes--as long as you aren't listening in places where people will give you strange looks if you occasionally laugh out loud while listening.

I recommend this book and the whole Blanco County series to anyone who likes a light, funny mystery, particularly fans of the Carl Hiaasen style.

I couldn't find this book anywhere!! Books-a-Million said that they could order it and it would have taken 3-7 weeks. I finally found it on Amazon and it was reasonable and here within 5 days. I have also ordered with Amazon before and they have the best service. I love how you can track your item down to the day it arrives.

If you are looking for an excellent translation of Jose Maria Arguedas, "Los Rios Profundos" this is it. The book retains the integrity of the origianl Spanish, and the spirit of the quechuan explanations which are left in quechuan. With a brief introduction by the translator as well as a glossary of terms at the end this English translation has made Arguedas masterful novel available to the English speaking world.

This is a gem of a book. While there are many things to like about it, I am most enamoured of the richness of detail in its naturalistic description. Arguedas, with his Indian upbringing, has a perceptiveness toward nature not often found in modern, Western society. The translation conveys this beautifully, though I've heard that the original Spanish is even more vivid in its descriptions. The characterization is multi-layered: there's even someone highly reminiscent of the Grand Inquisitor in Dostoyevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov"...

Non-western thoughts, beliefs and fears still permeate 20th.century Peru, a cultural heritage of the Inca empire. Arguedas, although white, learned Quechua as an infant, forced by circumstances to spend long periods with Peruvians of indian extraction, an experience which he would forever remember with deep tenderness and affection, and which would transmit surviving elements of Inca thought as well. The problem Arguedas faced as a writer was how to express a non-western state of mind in Spanish, a western language. In "Deep Rivers", he sometimes shifts the structures of sentences, or uses diminutives, to mimic Quechua. Stones can talk, and rivers sing. Big black flies are attracted to persons who are about to die. For Inca thought, the reflections from a pool of blood relate to the reflections from rapids in a stormy river. In "Deep Rivers" Arguedas shares with us the deep undercurrents and contradictions which flow beneath the surface of modern-day Peru. Conflicting cultures related through cruelty and despotism. Deep rivers flow in every culture. Not the superficial, visible elements of a culture, but those intimate fears, obsessions, and dreams which lie at the core of its members.

This subject line is not to diminish the power of this work. Only to convey that, unlike many other "coming-of-age" stories of a youth, Arguedas' semi-autobiographical tale presents a boy already formed even before the events of the bulk of the narrative. A pantheism rushes over his pages, and the Catholicism in whose school he is domiciled for most of the story remains more of a veneer over a pagan and defiant Quechua world refusing to succumb under the oppressive colonial and clerical regimes. The set-pieces of the book, the uprising of the peasant women for salt and waiting in the town as the plague approaches, gain force when (as Vargas Llosa notes in his afterword) placed within a calmer flow of words, at times scraped by harsh reality.

The descriptions of the natural world remain moving; however, many of the supporting characters at the youth's boarding school and the girl he courts (from afar it seems more than close up) stay rather diffused and vague. Nearly no details emerge, for example, of the actual schooling he receives, but plenty of cringeworthy accounts of how Rector Linares attempts to manipulate the Gospels to placate insurrectionists. A message, I gather, that subsequent generations in Latin America learned from. The prescience of this work, given the later events in Perú, makes Arguedas all the more compelling a contribution, that even in English (thanks to the abundant Quechua blended in), makes for a bracingly vivid read, with hints of what would become "magic realism" mixed with muted political critique and personal quests for identity for a boy caught between cultures.

We all have a story--usually a bittersweet blend of angst and elation. When loss comes, whether through death or separation from someone we love, our hearts must wade through the complexity of emotion remaining.

There are many ways we can tell our stories...flanked with humor and shrowded by denial...cloaked with bitterness and oppressed by hatred...or creatively open and inspired by redemption.

This is the brilliant balance Scott Sawyer achieved in his own story. In choosing to share this story, he could have opted for denial or for bitterness. Instead, he chose a delicate blend of humor, creativity and redemption. He allows us a unique glimpse into his contemplation, his desire and his pursuit to comprehend what bearing loss has had on his life.

The focus encompasses much more than loss, however, and delightfully depicts sibling rivalry, a boy's adoration for his mother and his family, wonder at not one but two fathers, the pursuit of passion and dreams, as well as life-altering spiritual discoveries. And revelations about a Heavenly Father.

I was rapt with the flowing rhythmn of humor, contemplation, angst, passion, peace and JOY (you'll see the significance of this adjective when you read the book).

Scott was brave to bear his heart, was artful in how he did so, and gracious not to air unnecessary dirty laundry.

This is a story that will make you laugh out loud and bring tears to your eyes. And it will cause you to contemplate your own soul...journeys left midway...pain left untended...discovery still to be made.

This is a warm, and honest portrayal of a man living through time by capturing and re-evaluating his past. When the famous psychologist Alfred Adler was exploring how our identity is formed he made the following interesting and counter-intuitive claim: Our present effects our past to a greater degree than our past effects our present. This book, a journey through a lifetime of memories experienced again and bonds established for the first time, demonstrates that Alder's claim is often true. The perspective we have today influences how we view the events and feelings of the past. The author, Scott Sawyer, uses his present perspective to unearth a beautiful retrospective of his family and his fathers.

This book contains a wonderful journey, and those reading it will be blessed by the opportunity to experience it with him. I was moved and touched, and the depictions and images involved me as a member of this family for a fleeting few moments. I cried, I laughed, and I was humbled by the love that radiates off the pages.

The style of the book is more poetic than narrative. I would normally have given 4 stars on this review, because I am usually more drawn to a narrative style, in this case however, the events, images and emotions of this family and his life captured me so completely that I quickly adapted to the many transitions and sound bites of thought.

Please read this book. I found that once I settled into the story, my efforts were rewarded, and the images and emotions came to life. I had the pleasure of attending a reading of the book by the author at a local bookstore and can tell you first-hand that the emotion that went into this project is real. The scene was similar to the experience of reading the book. We all laughed out loud at the comic depictions of his childhood, and cried at the emotion of meeting and losing his father again. Highly recommended to everyone.

This is a haunting and touching memoir unlike any others I've read. It brought tears to my eyes but reminded me of the love our Heavenly Father has for us even as we struggle to make a life here on earth. Beautifully written and inspiring!

This is the true story of one young man's search for identity as he grew up in a small Texas town in the shadow of an older brother, both having lost their real father as very young children. Their stepfather was the only father figure Scott knew, yet he was acutely aware that they were not the same flesh and blood. It is also the story of his family coping with the death of Scott's older brother from cancer when he was only sixteen. His ongoing relationship with two fathers-the one he never knew and the only one he did know-ultimately helped him find his identity in the heavenly Father as well.

After reading the story of Scott Sawyer and his journey with his family of origin I am struck with the honesty, the fairness, the love that would move a man to write such a book. Obviously the events in his life have molded a grateful,tender, forgiving heart and a man who has passion for his walk with his heavenly Father. I suspect most mothers would give anything to have such a man marry their own daughters. He is truly a brilliant writer and more importantly for me, a real 'Keeper'. He is my son-in-law.

Great mystery from beginning to end. Can't wait to read more about Corie McKenna

Smooth reading, realistic characters (at least in Texas their realistic!)and enough twists, turns and surprises to keep you going. Story ends great - because it not only raps up all your questions it also leaves you ready for more. Watch out Sue Grafton !

Author has a delightful style that has you engrossed from beginning to end. Can't wait to read more about Corie McKenna !!!!

Great mystery from beginning to end. Can't wait to read more about Corie McKenna

I was totally surprised at the ending. Final Decree has a very complex plot, woven very well. The characters are very real and I'm sure Corie and I will become good friends. I highly recommend this book.

The first story was okay, and these books are generally a lot of fun to read. The author really cares about her characters, and she is able to make the reader care about them. Despite the fact that the male and female protagonists behave like really immature 12 year olds, the books are a nice read when you need escapism and entertainment and they won't tax your brain much. The plots are always waving away at you, and if you can't figure them out from the first chapter or two, you aren't paying attention. That being said, I really didn't like Lone Star Baby much. I made it half way through before throwing the book across the room. It's a given that the denizens of Promise are an interfering bunch of gossiping but affectionate goody two shoes, but they really pulled out all the stops on this one. I found it totally unbelievable that the good citizens were determined to make a match between the genial, hapless pastor and the unwed mother. It just wouldn't and couldn't happen. Most of her stories read like fairy tales, but this one read like a joke. I found myself disliking the characters a lot when I actually read the story. Before I started, I was amused by the concept, but the execution left a lot to be desired. This could have been much better than it was, but it was poorly written, a real disappointment. Forester once said that for fiction to succeed, it required a willing suspension of disbelief. With all the will in the world I couldn't muster up even a shred of belief in this silly and childish story. With a better writer, or better writing, the story could have succeeded. Instead, it came off as juvenile and tasteless. I enjoy the Cedar Cove stories, and find that the characters, even with all their faults, are more believable than these sweet but clueless frauds. It is a given that Debbie's fans don't expect great literature, but we do expect not to be insulted with silliness at every turn.

I just discovered Debbie Macomber as an author when I read her more recent book, "Twenty Wishes". After reading it, I found the earlier books of her'Blossom Street'series and then couldnt find enough of her work to read. I have thoroughly enjoyed all her series and her Heart of Texas series is no exception. The men and women of Promise, Texas are all ordinary people, in the best sense of the word. It is a study in what happens when bad things happen to good people. The running mystery in the series is the 'ghost town', Bitter End. It seems to strike fear in all their hearts, even though the truth of its desolation is buried with their grandparents. The mystery of the deserted town even begins to intrigue the new residents to the town and for all the 'oppressive' feelings of grief and sadness it seems to eminate, the town seems to bring a number of people to a deeper understanding of each other, as well. This is a good book from a very good series.

Another wonderful story by Debbie Macomber. She is such a talented author and always has a great story to tell. I thought the first two volumes were just a little better than this one.

This series is wonderful. I can't wait until her next one comes out in September. NICE CLEAN READING!!!!

I love Macomber's stories about real people with individual attitudes and personalities--people we would like as friends. She never disappoints with her themes of friendship, hope, personal growth, and always happy endings. Thankfully, her stories and characters are so engrossing she has no need to "spice up" her books with unwelcome intimate details. I recommend this book along with a non-fiction one -- [[ASIN:097974590X THE 3:00 PM SECRET: Live Slim and Strong, Live Your Dreams]], which has motivated me to get in shape and reclaim my life so I can be like one of Debbie's heroines.

The exiciting adventures of little Jennie continues in Book 2 with Jeannie growing into a frontier teen. The fun continues with Jeannie and her friend Helga learning to do women's work. Jeannie still longs for her own horse ranch and there is a good chance that her dream may come true, but you'll have to read the book to find out how.

Horan is a fromer teacher and counselor who has spun a good story, including some "faction" from her family history about frontier life. She has managed to create characters that jump off the page and demand that you remember them. You simply cannot get Jeannie out of your head. Now that's writing!

--jcpinkerton

In Book Two of 'Jeannie, A Texas Frontier Girl,' only good things can be said about it! A very simple story involving a very complicated girl; Jeannie!

Turning fourteen, Jeannie is getting to be a mature, young lady. Many things are in store for her this year. Her best friend, Helga, also turned fourteen and has a a young male caller, Billy Joe. Jeannie can't be troubled by boys and kissing, she's only interested in having a farm ranch and raising horses.

All winter and summer, the girls learn to cook, sew, crochet and take care of Helga's new baby brother. These new skills will help them in the future. Living in the 1880's is hard work. You learn to grow up fast.

Jeannie's wish might be coming true soon enough. She has always dreamed of having her own farm ranch. Her mother just inherited some money from a relative so Jeannie has a sizable amount in her savings. Will she be old enough next year to have a ranch? Who will she want to work on her farm with her? She might have someone in mind!

Look for Book Three, coming soon!

I just finished Book Two. It was great and very adventurous. I am in the third grade at a Christian school Mrs. Horan visited. I also read Book One. I want to get Book Three when it is published. I want to say God bless you to Mrs. Horan.
Love,
Victoria

Evelyn Horan is not only a talented writer but she is a delightful and charming woman to boot. A true talent in her chosen genre of books and me (a grown man) loving every word she writes! I have ordered copies of her books for my own nieces and nephews. Her stories are well-written and educational. Her school teaching experience apparent with each book she writes. I look forward to the remaining books in her charming series!

John Savoy

"With Morning Star trotting along behind, the girls guided their horses to the wooded, north pasture. In a small clearing near a stream, they dismounted and walked toward a white picket fence enclosure surrounded by yellow sunflowers and a cluster of brightly colored Indian paintbrushes. A few baby blue eyes lingered among the shady cedars and live oaks." pg. 15

Evelyn Horan is a native Texan who has spent many years as a teacher-counselor. Over 200 of her children's articles have appeared in over 80 periodicals and publications. Her grandparents told her many stories about their adventures, traditions and customs in an earlier time. Evelyn wanted to write about these memories so children would know what life was like in the 1880s.

This is the second book in a four book series set in the Texas frontier. Books 1-4 were written for children and grown-ups who love to read about the Texas Frontier.

In Jeannie, A Texas Frontier Girl, Book Two, we find Jeannie and her friend are now 13 and 14. (In Book three they are 15 and by book four they are 20 years of age. The content remains appropriate for younger readers.)

The second book is a continuing tale of friendship and adventure. Jeannie has two new playful puppies to look after and the start of the book presents a cute situation where "Princess" and "Junior" play near a braided rug by the stone hearth as Pa, Ma and Jeannie enjoy the puppies antics.

The reader is immediately drawn into the story as we read about Jeannie's brother and her parents. Jeannie wishes she could be more like her mother because she is such a great cook and is a real frontier woman who knows how to make a delicious aromatic vegetable soup. She can't wait for Helga to visit and together they remember Jeannie's experience when she met a mountain lion.

Henry, Billy Joe, Helga and Jeannie go fishing and catch a catfish and Ma shows Jeannie how to fry the filets in a black iron skillet. Ma also makes a blackberry cobbler. You can just imagine a table filled with food as the aroma of freshly baked cobbler mingles with the crisp evening air.

There are stories about visiting Mr. Wasserman's store, piano lessons, drinking punch at a party and a Christmas Eve Nativity play. This was a time when people made strings of popcorn for their Christmas trees. One of my first memories of Christmas was making a string of colored popcorn for a tree, so this book brought back some memories of my own more recent childhood. Evelyn also writes about childhood memories from the 1800s, like "Alice in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll, published in 1865.

In this book you will find out:
1. How the girls help a family in need.
2. How Eagle Feather changes Jeannie's ideas about the Comanche Indians

There is a West Texas Map from the 1800s and this shows where Jeannie and Helga live. The locations of the Church, school, creek and Trading post are all on the map.

Evelyn Horan is today's " Laura Ingalls Wilder" and she has created unique books that not only capture the excitement of living on a frontier, she also focuses on daily life and has a flair for writing about cooking! Her descriptive writing is something I look forward to and I can't wait for the third book!

In Jeannie, A Texas Frontier Girl, Book Three, Helga trains Morning Star and Jeannie's dreams of her horse ranch start coming true.

~The Rebecca Review