Baker Books

This is a must-read for any Christian questioning his/her faith or wanting to know more about the church "fathers." Great book for crossing lines of denominationalism.

Eberhard Arnold begins with a brief history of the gradual institutionalizing of simple discipleship into ecclesiastical Christianity. His understood intent, througout the book, is to bring believers back to the basic lifestyle of Christ that was so resplendent in the early disciples. Chapters on martyrs, description of early church life and worship, and the beliefs of the early Christians concerning prophecy, persecution, and the return of Jesus are especially beneficial. A MUST read for anyone who wants to "walk as Jesus did" (1 Jn. 2:6) and follow the examples of the early believers. I heartily recommend this stirring and passionate treatment of "authentic discipleship" by disciple Arnold.

Eberhard Arnold's book is one of the most profound that I have read on early church history. In his attempt to recreate a communal society which was as close to that of the early church as possible (the Bruderhof in Germany and, later, the Hutterites in England), Arnold researched all the early sources which he could find, whether written by Jews, Christians, Romans, or others from the ancient world. His massive volume contains everything he found in his attempt to get to the spirit of that early community. He quotes from Tertullian, Justin, Cicero, Ignatius, Jerome, Theophilus of Antioch, Polycarp, and others. He does not draw conclusions but lets those to his readers to ascertain from the evidence of early believers.

The book is heavy laden with hundreds, perhaps thousands, of translated selections from the original Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. It is a rare edition which enlightens at every turn and, in some ways, reminds one of all the evidence on both sides of the fence which emerge in court proceedings. One reads the martyrdoms of many an early Christian and wonders whence their courage emerged. Much information abounds on early catecomb worship practices in Rome. The book is a marvel, and I can't recommend it highly enough.

Jeanne Smith McPherson, KS.

Eberhard Arnold's book is one of the most profound that I have read on early church history. In his attempt to recreate a communal society which was as close to that of the early church as possible (the Bruderhof in Germany and, later, the Hutterites in England), Arnold researched all the early sources which he could find, whether written by Jews, Christians, Romans, or others from the ancient world. His massive volume contains everything he found in his attempt to get to the spirit of that early community. He quotes from Tertullian, Justin, Cicero, Ignatius, Jerome, Theophilus of Antioch, Polycarp, and others. He does not draw conclusions but lets those to his readers to ascertain from the evidence of early believers.

The book is heavy laden with hundreds, perhaps thousands, of translated selections from the original Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. It is a rare edition which enlightens at every turn and, in some ways, reminds one of all the evidence on both sides of the fence which emerge in court proceedings. One reads the martyrdoms of many an early Christian and wonders whence their courage emerged. Much information abounds on early catecomb worship practices in Rome. The book is a marvel, and I can't recommend it highly enough.

Jeanne Smith McPherson, KS.

Eberhard Arnold's work on "The Early Christians," is an excellent source for understanding the beliefs and doctrines of the early christians in context of their own testimony and time. Arnold begins with a comprehensive introduction to shed light upon the social aspects of church society contrasted with its remarkable spread throughout the Pagan world. In other words, Arnold does a good job describing the initial steps of primative Christianity that would eventually leed to the well-structured and ecclesiastical institution that has prevailed to this very day. The testimonies recorded of these champions of faith, are composed with skill, and fit the criteria for which they were purposed in this work and in their time. Unfortunately, early christians didn't write that much, so we are indebted to work with what has existed from either oral tradition or scholarly manuscripts. There are no 'real' drawbacks to this work except the fact that the actual testimonies are few and emanate only from the scholarly retinue of the sencond century. Overall, this book gets four stars; the benefits range from quick reference to quotes(etc.), and to a broad spectrum of the personality and character of the early church itself.

We just wanted to add our voices in support of this excellent children's book. My son and daughter (3 and 5) really enjoy this beautiful and heartwarming story, and we highly recommend it.

Great for entertaining, and for teaching toddlers and preschoolers positional prepositions! Well worth the price.

This is probably one of my top 3 favorite childrens books ever. I could sit and look at the illustrations for hours. It has a fun story using very few words. I have purchased many copies as baby presents and gifts and they are always greeted with delight.

My 2 1/2 year old enjoys reading this book, as do my husband and I. The pictures are full of detail, and each page allows for more than one discussion about the preposition word printed on the page. As the saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words" - we have a great time discussing each picture and talking about what is happening.

Apart from being able to create a new story at each reading, Darren (3½-years-old) enjoys playing "Spot-The-Groundnut" on every double-spread. The first person who spots each nut gets a treat - to eat a REAL groundnut! That's where the fun is... Watch out for the last nut!!!!

A preposition is a "function" word that typically combines with a noun phrase to form a phrase which usually expresses a modification or predication. However, in "Elephants Aloft" prepositions like "above," "between," and "below" are not combined with noun phrases but rather with delightful illustrations of elephants in a balloon. Now, if a picture of a pair of elephants in a balloon is worth a thousand words, then there would be reason to believe that in those thousands words there would be at least one noun phrase.

Written by Kathi Appelt and illustrated by Keith Baker with pictures done in Liquitex acrylics on illustration board, "Elephants Aloft" begins before the title page with Auntie Rwanda in Africa sending a letter to her nephew and niece Rama and Raja in Asia. If young readers do not know the different between an African Elephant and an Asian Elephant, then this is an opportunity for them to find out if they pay attention to the differences in the ears of the two traveling elephants and their aunt. Each picture of the journey has a single word, written large, and lots of details (the colorful bird that delivered the letter to Rama and Raja appears in each picture and young readers should enjoy looking for him).

This book is ideal for beginning readers since it emphasizes a single word on each page and kids should be able to make the association between words like "beside" or "around" and the pictures of the elephants in their balloon going by the Taj Mahal or coming around a snow capped mountain. Granted, little kids are not going to understand exactly what a prepositions is (I had to look it up), but they will still pick up the idea that all of the words appearing in "Elephants Aloft" are similar in terms of how they function.

Note: The back flap of "Elephants Aloft" says this was Kathi Appelt's first book. You should check out some of the other ones, not just the picture books intended for kids, but some of her poetry books intended for older kids and (dare I say it) adults as well, such as "Poems From Homeroom" and "My Father's Summers."

Collins' book the "Evangelical Moment" takes the reader on a historical journey of the evangelical movement with some exciting stops along the way. The book provides a reader-friendly discussion of American evangelicals in term of such hot buttons issues as politics, social action and feminism. I especially liked the argument for a leadership role of woman in the church; it is the best I've ever read. The chapter on politics, as Collins skewers some of the reigning shibboleths of the left (I found at times even humorous), is worth the price of the book itself.

The segments on conversion and being born again, so important to American evangelicals, were also challenging to say the least... Collins seems to have a keen sense that grace is liberating, that it sets the captives free--really free. I don't often hear that.

From what I can tell, the book is carefully researched, and the bibliography is extensive. It will chart my way for some future reading. The "Evangelical Moment", however, is a good place to begin. It is a must read for all Christians who would like to understand their evangelical brothers and sister a little better.

The Evangelical Moment is an informative account of a complex and often misunderstood movement known as American evangelicalism. Kenneth Collins traces the roots of evangelicalism beyond its major identifying movements in America to events in the first-century Church. He engages the reader in the evangelical conversations that have defined its theological and sociological positions in a way that is easy to understand and easy to read. The image he presents of the intelligent, well-educated American evangelical is radically different from the ignorant bigot on the lunatic fringe most often portrayed by the media today. His chapter on "Evangelicals and Feminism" is a welcome ray of sunlight for any woman who has ever longed for scriptural community but felt her spirit 'bound and gagged' by oppressive teachings. As Collins points out, not all the problems for American evangelicalism have been solved, but the conversation is ongoing and his prognosis is good. This book is rich in information and inspiring in hope.

Kenneth Collins presents a thorough examination of American Evangelicalism in this book, and those with varying degrees of knowledge about Evangelicalism will find it extremely helpful. This is a very readable presentation of the history, challenges, strengths and weaknesses of a movement that encompasses Christians from all denominations. Timely and encouraging is the treatment of Feminism and Evangelicalism. Collins advocates the power of God working through women as well as men to minister for the Lord. He calls for a balanced handling of Scripture through the illumination of the Holy Spirit. He asks probing questions that seek for integrity to Scripture and to the Living Word, Jesus Christ. American Evangelicalism is not just a doctrine but also a way of life. This way of life, through the power of Jesus Christ's atonement, has the power to radically change lives. I am encouraged about the position of evangelicals and their ability to face the challenges of a culture that is swiftly growing more spiritual and less Christian as time goes on.

I vacillated on whether to give this 4 stars or 5--when I first read through it, I recommended it to many, and got through it quickly. I have some minor objections, but he raises a more traditional perspective that, especially within the Methodist tradition (which receives special, though not exclusive, focus in the book) has become more and more neglected among more academic Wesleyans, though starting to make a comeback.

Collins challenges those who favor pushing evangelicalism, and Methodism in particular, more and more away from its distinctly evangelical roots. For example, he calls out Methodist academics who raise questions about fundamental points of Christian orthodoxy, and cites the Methodist Discipline to boldy suggest as that those in authority who do not accept standard doctrine should be kept from communion. Although this may lead to a kneejerk reaction by many, his argument for this is straightforward and fair--what does communion mean, if not an acceptance of the basic tenets of Christian orthodoxy? He also notes that many younger scholars have moved in a conservative direction (my own observations agree with this), because they have been astute enough to apply the hermeneutic of suspicion, or the critical method, back on these
approaches themselves!

It would be a mistake to see this as simply a conservative apologetic. His section on politics shows balance, and he remains aware of the central importance of the "social Gospel" to turn of the century Evangelicalism. He also defends women's ordination. I found his method here to be his main shortcoming, as he relies largely on experiential and anecdotal arguments, and doesn't address the more fundamental points of church tradition, apostolic succession, etc. that would be raised by traditional Catholic or Orthodox readers who would be otherwise sympathetic with his discussion. Speaking of which, he gives a fairly balanced discussion of Catholicism and Orthodoxy (important dialogue partners with Evangelcials these days), while standing once again for the distinctives of evangelicalism, without castigating these other traditions. Those who favor reading Wesley more in light of Anglo-Catholicism may find this to be more of "holiness" read on Methodism than a Wesleyan one, though Collins does give attention to sacramentology, etc. Once again, though, he doesn't address the strongest arguments these traditions make for their own distinctive views of works/grace, ecclesiology, etc. In that sense, he writes with a definite pro-Evangelical slant. In all, though, there is enough there to argue with, and plenty to agree with (if you are a fairminded reader), to make for a stimulating read.

In an age consumed by concepts such as "fair and balanced," partisan politics, and media bias, critiques of Evangelical Christianity seem to pull no punches. More often than not, these critiques go uncriticized, and the object of their scrutiny is either vaguely defined by crude generalizations, misdefined by historical anachronisms, or left undefined by blatant prejudice. In this book, Kenneth J. Collins first defines the multiform concept of Evangelicalism as it plays out in American Christianity and confronts its subsequent critics. In addition, Collins offers that "Evangelicals," a specific subset of Christians present among the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant denominations, are proving to be quite effective in unifying the various communions of the Christian faith.
This promise of the beginnings of a true ecumenism provides a glimpse of hope in amidst the picture of despair that is the seemingly rampant division so prevalent among Cristians of various backgrounds. The question for these communions of believers in Christ is can they "break bread" together, these that "affirm Scripture, the four great ecumenical councils, and the three creeds?" (p.204). Collins' book offers the hope that they can. In time, through the Spirit of love and truth, Christians may understand the importance of their unity, especially in the face of tribulation.
The evangelicals are cautioned against the comfortabilty and prosperity of their American context, and a call to preach the gospel and minister to the poor ever exceeds matters of secondary importance that divide so many Christians. The time is now...the season is ripe..."the night is far spent, the day is at hand" (Romans 13:12). May the reader join with Collins in his vision of hope for Christian unity in this honest, candid, and humble exploration of the evangelical moment in American religion.

Books were everything promised. Delivered in a hurry and well packaged, completely satisfied!

This is the best commentary set I have ever read! D. Martyn Lloyd Jones has a wonderful grasp of God's Word, and his passion and love for the Lord bleeds through every page!
I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to understand more about God and who we are.

Dr. M Lloyd-Jones' books are the standard in Christian literature. None has so inspired men and women to authentic and genuine Christianity. Lloyd-Jones does a masterful job in stating the heart of the Christian faith. What I love about his books is, he always inspires a person to drive deeper into the greatest book of all time, the bible. He is so biblical, so percise, and so careful in expositing word by word, verse by verse that you'll find charismatics, arminians, cavinists, fundamentalists, and even Christian liberals nodding their heads at the clear truths in these books. If you read any of his reviews, you'll hardly find anyone that give him lower than 5 stars. Considering that some of his out of print books sell for well over $100 a piece, this is a treasure and a bargain!

After reading this 8 volumn series of Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones' exposition of the Epistle to the Ephesians, I have been encouraged with a number of convictions that the Dr and I share: 1. The Church of Christ needs a renewal of Bible Exposition; passage upon passage and through entire books of the written Word of God. The Dr. masterfully builds upon the great truths contained in this letter. 2. Truth transforms as a person begins with their mind being taught these Great Truths. These truths (as all truth) set free and transform the total person as it is applied by the Spirit. Truth changes ones character, ones social context, and arms him/her for spiritual conflict. 3. The postional truths of who we are in Christ(as individuals and as a church),develop "Spirit-Filled" churches. I know that this term has been hijacked by certain segments of the Evangelical Church. But this Exposition of Ephesians demonstrates that being Spirit-Filled has to do with transformation not only in worship but in those places where everyone sees our Christianity. (our marriages, family relationships, and work) Being Spirit-Filled means that you really are different and these vitally areas are changed. Those are the evidences of being "Spirit-Filled." 4. The Church is where the wisdom of God is demonstrated to the Spiritual forces of this world System. (3:10-12) Christ has conquered these forces through His death and resurrection (1:20-22) Now we can stand (individually and as the Church) against those forces and move steadily to the victory He has won. (6:10-20) Lloyd Jones warns us against seeing our spiritual warfare in merely human terms (a reak problem with those influenced by liberal theology) but in spiritual ones. He also warns against taking on God's enemy, the Devil, in a Cavalier manner (a problem all too prevelant among many extremeist in Charismatic movement)But to stand and learn what it means to arm oneself for conflict.
These volumns are not for those who want quick,easy, pleasing to the ears messages. These are faithful, thourough expositions of the passages. He takes on the tough passages and concepts of this epistle. This reading speaks to todays consumer oriented, and consumer pleasing "Bible Lite" mentality that is destroying Western Evangelicalism. Lloyd Jones teaches who we are in Christ, who we are as the Church in Christ, and always keeps the demands of the Gospel front and center. Lord, give us preachers like this man again. Our times surely need them.

I very much like the clarity and easy reading style the books are writen in. It is great that some profound truths are carried across in language that can easily be understood and followed. He spends long enough on a point to let it sink in without becoming repetative. Very much enjoyed the read.

I started reading Pink about 5 years ago and hav'nt found anything bad yet. I believe his treatment of Hebrews was Exceptional but before you start you may want to finish up any books you have already started. Very indepth!

Just the book I need for a thorough study of Hebrews. Binding and printing great, shipping prompt.

This exposition is Arthur Pink at his best. There is no such thing as a bad commentary by Pink. I own 90% of his published writings and in my opinion this is his best work. The Hebrew writer (which Pink makes the best argument I've heard for Paul's authorship) intended for this epistle to show the physical things of the Old Testament as a shadow of the spiritual things in the New Testament. Pink masterfully follows this theme! Mission accomplished! This is definitely written at a college-reading level and a "must read" for every minister who has put his faith in Jesus the Christ.

This commentary is a must for any serious student of the book of Hebrews. Pink is peerless in his insights and thoroughness.

anyone who wants to gain a better grasp of Hebrews would do well to at least leaf through this tome. He well handles the tricky sections like ch's 6 and 10, et al.

Probably nothing or no one else has ever been the subject of more artwork or literature than Jesus of Nazareth. And if you look through this book you'll understand why. The amazing artwork and beautiful poetry and prose contained in these pages will do nothing less than uplift and inspire. I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone, Christian or not. It truly captures the gentle meekness and unfathomable love of the Savior in a Spirit of genuine devotion.

Greg Olsen is my favorite current artist of Christ. His exquisite paintings offer a picture of Christ which embodies both his mortal/human side and his immortal being. This particular book was a much appreciated gift. Olsen uses the warm colors of the palette to bring a sense of peace and concern, that emanates from the person we see in the pictures of Christ and the time period in which he lived. Of course, none of us can know what He truly looked like, but the readings and poems present in this book illustrate the compassionate Person he was, and that we all should try to be.

These are the books that I leave out for others to see. These are the books I look through to find guidance and peace when the daily happenings of life get me down. The art and the writings remind me of what is truly important...the service and the love that we give to others.

I hope to see more of Olsen's work in the future.

Karen Sadler

Christian worship is a difficult thing to describe. But it must look an awful lot like this book. Buy it. Actually, buy two. If you enjoy communion with the Lord, you'll probably wear one out.

Greg Olsen has a talent that seems to cross the bridges of time. In his book "Expressions of Faith" readers may feel that they are actually living during the time of Christ. His paintings have the ability to pull you into the scene, and you feel that pehaps it is you who the Savior is reaching out to save.

Greg Olsen, has chosen some excellent poetry and has written some beautiful prose which complements his art. In my opinion, poetry is the art work of the mind, and art work is the poerty of the eye. Prose, is the heart that describes what the mind and the eye see. That is the secret of this book; it appeals to the heart, mind, and the eye.

M.D. Cummings

This is truly one of the most beautiful books I have seen in a long time. It would make a wonderful gift - one that should be out on a coffee table for all to see!

The book is written in an easy to follow style and the desserts come out perfect every time. There is also a chapter on bake sales. (This book brings back happy childhood memories.) Every parent should have a copy. It will become cherished for generations

If there was ever a cookbook to get you in the kitchen this one is it! The first recipe I tried was Gladys Martin's Sour Cream Coffee Cake. It alone is worth buying the book. I own many other baking books but I can already tell this will be the first one I reach for! If there were more stars to rate this book-I would have used them all.

I can't say enough about this book. Each recipe reminds you of the baked goods you had as a child when family got together. They are all easy to make and come out fabulous. I own many baking books but this is the best one! Try the Swedish Almond Butter Cake it is amazing.

As I flipped through this book, the recipes sounded yummy! I have tried a few and each has been better than the one I just made! The oatmeal cookies are outstanding! I will keep trying more out!

Many cookbooks on baking expect that we, the reader, either have culinary degrees or have plenty of time to create masterpieces worthy of a magazine spread. They seem to think we prefer the laboriously intensive creations that run $10 a plate at the finest restaurants. If that were truly the case why are our fondest memories of the baked goods created by our mothers (and fathers)?

In Susan Purdy's "The Family Baker", Mrs. Purdy takes us into her kitchen and shows us how to recreate those childhood delights, with all the guesswork tossed out. This is a no-nonsense cookbook. That is, there is very little idle chatter and lots of good information.

At first glance, recipes seem very long and involved. What you are actually seeing is the abundance of the information she provides to make sure that the results "never-let-you down". Beyond the usual ingredient list and steps, a list of any special equipment needed, advanced preparation options, the necessary temperature and cooking time to be used, and the expected yield are provided. A "For Good Measure" box appears in many of the recipes, providing specific tips or possible adjustments to further enhance the recipe. Some recipes also end with a list of alternate versions to increase your options. Mom's Apple Pie can become an Apple-Cranberry Pie, Kentucky Bourbon Pie, Apple-Raisin Pie, or Apple-Dried Cherry Pie if the mood struck you.

One of the first recipes tried was for Pumpkin `n' Spice Muffins. If you have a small can of plain pumpkin puree, you probably have everything to make these tasty muffins. This recipe was easy to prepare and resulted in a flavorful muffin. These are not dessert muffins. As stated in the description, they would be great for breakfast or served along side a bowl of soup. They are highly addictive.

Experienced cooks will appreciate the wide variety of recipes provide. Beginning cooks and those who want to increase their skills will love the tons of information packed into this cookbook.

Some might say nothing can equal Middlemarch as Eliot's greatest work but I think that even if Felix Holt doesn't rank alongside it in literature, it should be given at least an equal status.

The novel deals with provincial politics in nineteenth century England through the mouthpiece of one of the best male protagonists ever drwan in literature by a female writer. As in all her books, Eliot is sharp in her details, the satire is poignant and she doesn't miss out on humor. Feminism takes a different turn here, with telling criticisms on the way females were brought up at that time and in many third world countries, still are brought up.

Eliot is never bitter, never hopeless, yet always realistic and idealistic with this difference: she doesn't let it get out of control. Fear not: mawkish is the last thing this book is. Some details might seem to be superfluous but it adds up to showing the literary prowess of this great woman, and is very helpful in letting you understand the real stuff going on at that time. A good, very well-written socio-political novel, that depicts the atmosphere of its time with more accuracy than many other books I've read.

Eliot does have the most amazing ability to get into her characters' minds. although this book is an all rounder in the sense that it comments on most social issues, the two main intimate themes of the books are personal to the central character, Felix, the most "alive" hero of nineteenth century literature: his politics and his love interest, in herself a very compelling and subtly drwan character.

Worth reading for all Eliot, Dickens, and Hardy fans. Will definitely give you two or three new opinions: even if the time period is different, much of the philosophy of the book is still very relevant.

This is my 4th novel by George Eliot (after "Adam Bede", "Middlemarch" and "The Mill on the Floss") and it has become my favourite along with "Middlemarch". "Felix Holt" is so marvelously written and gave me many hours of reading pleasure - I can't understand why it's not as highly acclaimed or well-known as Eliot's other novels.

If you're a fan of Victorian literature, then you mustn't miss this brilliant work. The story's set in the 1830s and is 1/3 focused on politics (i.e. a fascinating insight into the electioneering process and the fight for a Parliamentary seat between the Torys and the Radicals), 1/3 on family and sensational issues (e.g. illegitimacy, dispute over who has the legitimate claim on the wealthy estates of the Transome family and plenty of blackmail, manipulation and betrayals) and 1/3 devoted to a love triangle.

George Eliot wrote so eloquently and beautifully that many times I find myself re-reading a particular phrase in order to saviour its beautiful words. Each chapter also starts with either a beautiful poem or some well-chosen lines from Shakespeare/the Classics. Here's a favourite of mine from Chapter 45 (a poem by Eliot):

"We may not make this world a paradise
By walking it together with clasped hands
And eyes that meeting feed a double strength.
We must be only joined by pains divine,
Of spirits blent in mutual memories".

I confess that above all, it is the suspense over the touching love story that kept me turning the pages very quickly. The hero is Felix Holt, a passionate, idealistic young man who studies medicine but chooses to quit midway and forgo a comfortable future as a doctor in favour of leading the more righteous life (in his opinion) of an ordinary, poor workingman because of his scorn for wealth and its corrupting powers. Felix is described as honest, brusque, generous and highly intelligent. He's got "wild hair", dresses simple and to his own liking e.g. not wearing a cravat "like all the other gentlemen", and sometimes looks like a "barbarian". He patronizes no one and is rather unpopular in the town of Treby Magna where the story takes place. His political views are Radical (i.e. more severe than the Liberals) but his main concerns are for the well-being of the working class and especially the future of their children. (Read the excellent "Address to Working Men by Felix Holt" which comes after the Epilogue). Felix's good intentions land him in great trouble with the law later on when a massive riot breaks out among the drunk working class directly after the election and Felix is wrongly accused of being the leader of the mob.

Early on in the novel, Felix is introduced to the heroine, Esther Lyon (the beautiful daughter of a poor chapel minister) whose vanity and high-bred manner he scorns. He rebukes and lectures her constantly in that straight-forward and honest manner of his because he cares to improve her views on what are truly the important things in life. Esther dislikes him utterly at first... she cannot understand why Felix doesn't admire her beauty and graceful manners like other young men do. Esther is vain and proud (at least, initially) and has always dreamed of leading a better life, with fineries and beautiful clothes and servants to do her bidding. And Felix Holt is definitely not her idea of a lover! But Esther is not unkind or ungenerous - she loves her father dearly and treats everyone well. Gradually, she begins to see the true nature of Felix's character and noble aims, and holds him in great esteem, despite his outward looks and manners. But Felix has declared never to marry and if he were ever to fall in love, he would just "bear it and not marry" (preferring to "wed poverty"). Later in the novel, Esther is courted by the rich and handsome Harold Transome whose initial reason for wooing her is to save his family estates. But he doesn't count on falling in love with her subsequently.

Who does Esther ends up with finally: Felix or Harold? But take it from me that the romantic scenes between Felix and Esther are the most passionate and heart-wrenching I've ever come across in a classic literature - with many kisses and hugs amidst pure longing and despair, and scenes filled with beautifully spoken words of affection which brought tears to my eyes.

For many, many reasons, "Felix Holt" makes for a most brilliant read. I urge you not to miss it.

George Eliot is an acquired taste. If one were to pick up only one of her books it would probably be "The Mill on the Floss", "Silas Marner" or "Middlemarch" and with any one of those might come frustration with Eliot's myriad of plots (not to mention her tendency for being a bit wordy). But I found "Felix Holt", for all its political twists and turns, to be the most accessible of Eliot's books. This accessibility can be attributed to two of the finest characters ever created: Mrs. Transome and Ester Lyon. I would say that the character of Mrs. Transome ranks up there with Emma Bovary in terms of literary creation and chapters 42 and 49 (I don't want to give away the story) are absolutely cinematic. I truly love this book.

George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) was a great English novelist of
the Victorian period. Her list of classics is impressive:
"Scenes from Clerical Life'; "Adam Bede"; "The Mill on the Floss"
Middlemarch" and "Daniel Deronda" are among the greatest novels
ever written in the English Language.
Felix Holt tells the story of a radical candidate for Parliament. He has become a watchmaker; cares for his mother
and courts Esther Lyon the sophisticated daughter of a poor
minister. Esther is also courted by Harold Transome who like
Holt is also a Radical candidate for Parliament. Harold is rich, 35, a widower with a young son. Holt is young, fiery and idealistic.
The most interesting character in the novel is Mrs. Transome who has secrets to keep. She is well drawn by Eliot.
In addition to the love story is the tale of an inheritance.
This tangled delve into old documents is complex and may lose
some readers.
The tale climaxes with a working man's revolt and other suprises for the interested reader. The book is not as long as
some of her novels but does hold one's interest.
This is not Eliot's best novel but it is worth reading.

Felix Holt occupies a middle-tier in the critical estimation of Eliot's novels. It is often disparaged as the "political novel," or alternatively "the one where the legal subplot is way too complicated."

At first, this seems unfair. The early introduction of Mrs. Transome is a showstopper, heroine Esther Lyon fascinates, and the detailed evocation of 19th century rural politics is through Eliot's narrative magic made riveting.

But things do go awry in the second half. A big problem is Felix himself: an idealization of a political view rather than a detailed character, the reader loves him rather less than Eliot seems to intend. The legal schenanigans are intriguing, but the tortuous plot machinations through which Felix comes to be imprisoned are near ridiculous. And finally, Esther experiences her moral conversion rather too quickly and tidily, coming to seem just a sketch for Gwendolyn Harleth in the later Daniel Deronda. Indeed, by book's end the most compelling plot thread standing is that of the unfortunate Mrs. Transome.

But to say a book isn't as good as Daniel Deronda isn't much of a criticism. For all its faults, Felix Holt is filled with excellent characters, a strong story, and unparalled insight into both 19th century England and the more universal collisions of morality and politics.

I loved this book. I have yet to read another book whose story line is like this one. Could not put it down once I started it!

Normally I hate romance novels and consider them trashy, but this one was a glowing exception. It had as much action and history in it as it did romance. The romance when it was going on was a romance of love, not just lust. The commitment between Brianna and Shunkaha was palpable and real. Though they were from different worlds, their love overcame all the trials and hardships life could throw at them.

This is definitely one of the very few romance novels I'd ever recommend because of the history in it such as the Battle of Wounded Knee and the massacre of the Lakota.

I love all Madeline Baker books and one is no exception. Shukaha Luta and Brianna have a wonderful friendship from the start. Though Shukaha is 30 years old and Brianna or Ishna Wi as he calls her(which means Sun Woman) is 17 Shukaha soon realizes that she is all woman. After Brianna rescues Shukaha from a chain gang Shukaha rescues Brianna from her abusive aunt and uncle. Shukaha takes her to his people where after many trials they eventually come back to Brainna's Aunt and Uncles house to find the uncle has died and left everything to Brianna. The two have many things in store for them before they get their ever after. I definatly recomend this book to anyone who wants a romantic adventure.

This was the first romance novel that I ever read. It was way back in 7th grade and at that age I probably shouldn't have been reading these kinds of books. But I fell in love with this writer and this story. I felt like I was there with the characters as an eye witness. It will be hard for me to give away the story since it has been a long long time since I read it last, but I do remember that it was a wonderful book. If telling you that this book helped start me out on reading Indian romance novels than that should be good enough for anyone.

This was my first Madeline Baker book, and it got me hooked. The love story between Shukaha Luta and Brianna was one of the sweetest and most romantic I've read in a long time, and really has stood up to be the best after countless other romances I've read. Brianna is an innocent 17 years old girl when she meets her Indian brave, who is a grown man of 30. But, he is imprisoned, and Brianna soon risks everything to free him. They fall in love almost from first sight, but it takes a few chapters for Shunkaha to look past her young age and realize she could be all women for him! After he makes the decision, he commits to her totally. Even after separations they remain true to each other, even after he is feared dead. They always reunite happily. Even after Shunkaha realizes the Lakota can no longer live as they once did and he has to adapt, they remain devoted. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and needs to believe that love does conquer all barriers.
Cyndi

I'm a longtime fan of Ms. Jacobs and hope that
"Flashpoint" is the start of a new series.
This novel is just the right blend of mystery,
suspense, and social commentary.

Be sure to read Ms. Jacobs' other recent novels,
"Star Struck" and "Double or Nothing".

Nancy Baker Jacobs's savvy arson investigator, Susan Kim Delaney, is a welcome new voice in mystery and suspense. Intelligent and tough, with a dry wit and wise heart, she more than proves her mettle in the face of danger. Well-drawn characters and a solid plot help to make FLASH POINT an unforgettable reading experience. This one will have you reading through the night!

in this fast-paced page turner. Ms. Jacobs manages to make every word count in Flash Point, her latest mystery entry. Thanks to the author's keen eye for detail, the reader sees the characters come to life on the page. And what charming characters they are---it's a pleasure spending time with Susan Kim Delancey as she tracks down the serial arsonist. Well researched, the author sets the scene so realistically I have a new-found respect for the men and women who fight fires daily.

Not only does Susan Kim Delancy, California's first arson czar, have to race to find a killer who targets new mothers; she also has to prove the value of her new office to politicians, the press, and fire professionals. I could not put this book down, and I look forward to Nancy Baker Jacobs's next book featuring this complex, caring, courageous Asian-American single mother.

Susan Kim Delancey is the Governor's Special Assistant for Arson Investigations, a political appointment that has her serve as liaison with all the counties in California. Right now she is investigating a series of arson homicides that have taken place in Sausalito, San Francisco, Daily City and San Vincente. She is trying to find out if the same person is responsible for the four incidents.

In each case the victim was a single mother who recently gave birth to a baby girl. No trace of the babies is found leading the press to dub the crimes the "Baby Snatcher Murders". Susan and her understaffed overworked team find a common thread even as the killer targets someone Susan loves more than life itself.

Nancy Baker Jacobs has a winning new series if FLASH POINT is any indication. The heroine is impossible not to like as she races from one horrific crime scene to another to find some answers that will stop a killer before he strikes again. There are enough twists and turns to keep the reader turning the pages until they find out who the perp is and why he is doing such terrible things.

Harriet Klausner