E Books

I remember reading all of the Beverly Cleary books as a child, and now I've bought these to read to my children. All of Cleary's books are literary gems, easy to read, and keep kids entertained with plots that they can relate to.

I clearly recall the 1950's style illustrations by Louis Darling in the books I used to read, which have since been replaced in these modern editions. At first I was dubious about the change because the Darling illustrations were so charming, but upon seeing these new illustrations and relating them to the content (which has NOT changed), it's clear that the new illustrator made a real effort to stay close to the original drawings. Additionally, Cleary's words in relation to the new, 'modern' illustrations, suprisingly still apply very well (aside from the 1950's prices and brand names). Regardless, it's easy to envision Henry, Beezus, and Ramona as children living in 2008 or 1950. What does that tell me about Beverly Cleary's books? They're absolutely timeless, and I hope that future generations continue to read and enjoy them as I have.

This is the second-to-last book in the "Henry Huggins" series (if you count "Ribsy," the solo story of his dog, and set aside the Ramona and Beezus books...)

In this volume, once again Henry shows his determination and pluck as he sets a goal and works hard, very hard, to attain it. Actually, he pursues two goals: to save enough money from his new paper route so that he can buy a sleeping bag, and to build a clubhouse with his friends Robert and Murph. Henry learns to balance work and play, and wins the respect of the adults in his world. He also has to contend with the ever-annoying Ramona, as well as her sister Beezus (whose feelings he hurts when he agrees to make the clubhouse a "no girls allowed" zone).

Once again, Beverly Cleary gives a glimpse into the world of children that is both entertaining and emotionally honest. The innocent, white-picket fence world of the Kennedy-era early '60s may be a far cry from what life is like now, but these stories are still fun to read and pleasantly free of a lot of the violence and other baggage that define more modern kid's fiction. Wholesome and all-American, also funny and human, these are timeless stories that can help open the world of literature to inquiring young minds. (ReadThatAgain children's book reviews)

Looking for books that will challenge an 8 year old boy that is a good reader but doesn't like fiction. The Henry Huggins series is just the ticket. Although the stories are somewhat dated, nevertheless they are well written. The stories have humor in them and they contain object lessons for their readers. I can say that a boy for sure will find them interesting.

I think Beverly Cleary did a good job writing Henry and the Club House. Henry and the Club House is part of a series of books. This book is about a 11 year old boy who has a paper route. But, some times he forgets his paper route. One day he forgets his route and his mother has to do it. He has lots of problems but his biggest problem his Ramona. Ramona is a four year old girl. Every day Ramona is upto something. Henry has to get an idea to get rid of Ramona. In Henry and the Club House Henry has to deal with Ramona and a clubhouse that he is working on with his two friends Robert and Murph. I think every one from 7-11 should read this book.

Another fine Henry Huggins book...and sadly we only have two left about Henry before we have exhausted this series. We simply love these books, my daughter is anxiously waiting until we get to the library tomorrow to pick up Henry and the Paper Route and we'll top off the series with Ribsy. Like other Henry Huggins books, this one is divided into chapters (7 to be exact) and each chapter is practically a short story in and of itself...the chapters build up to an overall theme/goal for Henry. In this particular book, it's building a clubhouse and buying a sleeping bag so he and his friends can sleep in the clubhouse.

The chapters start out with Henry forgetting about his paper route and winding up riding through town in a bathtub, then Henry and Ribsy making the acquaintance of the new neighborhood dog, we follow them on Halloween night, on a day of collection for his newspaper route, through his building of the clubhouse (with a strict No Girls policy) and his run in with Beezus and Ramona as a result (hilarious), Henry's clever "solution" to Ramona's pestering, and how he wound up with a little shadow! Overall the stories are clever and humorous in a way that I think kids genuinely appreciate and relate to!

Where does he find materials for his clubhouse? How does it turn out? What's up with that huge stuffed owl? What's it like to ride through town in a bathtub? How hard is a paper route? Will Henry ever get that sleeping bag? If you want to know you simply must read Henry and the Clubhouse, you won't be disappointed! These stories were written in the 1950's and 60's, so money matters are a bit off, but the rest is charming and the overall themes, humor, and childhood joys, frustrations and embarrassments have held up so wonderfully over the years...these books are great for girls and boys! I give this one an A+, another fine Henry Huggins adventure!

This was the fourth book I've read on selling on ebay and it easily outshines the other three. It actually delivers what the title says and is very well written.

I bought several books when I was first starting my ebay store, but this one proved the most helpful. It is just packed with actual websites, actual seller testamonials, actual examples of everything. It covers everything I could have asked for, and then alot more!

If you are starting an eBay store and don't know what to sell or how to do it, this book is a must. It is well-written and gives you many helpful hints. Your mind will race with possibilities as you read each chapter. With all the sellers on eBay, this gives you realistic information on how to compete in the huge marketplace.

If you are contemplating on starting an eBay business or are looking at expanding an existing one, this book is for you. After reading this book, you will never have to wonder where to find things to sell on eBay. You will still need to do your homework, but this book points you in the right direction.

The authors cover almost all possible areas in which to locate merchandise to sell, from local to international. (I say almost, because they don't mention about shopping local clearance sales, off-price stores, or merchandise outlets, which is where a lot of eBay sellers I know get their items). I thought I had heard it all, but even I learned a lot about product sourcing. Who knew about the Chatujak Market in Bangkok, Thailand, where you can find the most unusual items you can think of for real cheap?

Not only do the authors reveal where to purchase merchandise, but just as importantly, they give you the strategies on how to get the most out of your product sources. Another great thing is that they help put your eBay business in the proper perspective, by emphasizing how you can compete, even with the big box merchandisers, like WalMart, with great customer service and/or by finding your niche and specializing in it. Every seller, no matter how small, can find a place in the marketplace. It just takes a little more creativity.

My only quibble with this book is the authors' suggestion to save on shipping costs by forgoing purchasing delivery confirmation when shipping via the US postal service. As an eBay seller myself, I know how important it is to keep your costs down, but not shipping with any type of tracking is actually against eBay rules, and some buyers will insist on getting a tracking number of some sort. The only bad advice in an otherwise fantastic, informative book.

This book leaves no stone unturned. If you are truly thinking about having an eBay business, or you already have one that needs spicing up with fresh ideas, you need this book. "How and Where to Locate the Merchandise to Sell on eBay" by Michael P. Lujanac and Dan W. Blacharski is much more than just a few tips on locating merchandise. This book offers creative advice on what kind of merchandise works and when, how to maximize your profits on eBay, and pitfalls and traps to avoid. The ideas for finding merchandise are quite extensive and a directory of contacts is even thrown in. All this information is not just from someone who has done a little research. It is evident that this is insider information from people who have been there. The book is riddled with tips and tricks from eBay Power Sellers and is organized very well. In summary, get this book.

These tales evoke a poetical kind of realism. "Hunters in the Snow" is a tragic but comic portrayal of three bumbling hunters acting dumb but believable: so in character with themselves yet slightly bizarre. Everything in these tales is real. There is no trumped up language or superfluous prose. The narratives sweep along with a good balance of dialogue, description and action, and are never boring. "Face to Face" is another good one--tragic again and emotional; you come away with a real sense of pathos. And none of it is asked for. The author doesn't beg our emotions. It's very real and very human. "Worldly Goods" is a hilarious tale but again with sober touch. "Maiden Voyage" is spot on in its portrayal of the bondage and meaning of marriage, and the allure of new love. "Passengers" is a terrific tale about a road warrior girl picked up by a straight-laced guy, the adventures they have and the effect she has on him--it makes you think, and it's all our doing. We never get pandered to or have our feelings played with. And it seems so effortless!

I would absolutely recommend this book. I don't usually give full-throttle approvals, but with this book I can find no fault. Read and enjoy!

I am amazed with everything Tobias Wolff writes.


His fiction is as strong and deep as his non-fiction. In Pharoa's Army is the most profoundly human book I've read on the subject of soldiering in Viet nam.

This short story collection from Tobias Wolff is truly just that. Each story gives you enough of the bare essentials to keep you informed and invested, but they never cross the line into anything remotely superfluous. Each story feels very much like you've entered right into the middle of things and you are there for the climax, but not necessarily the introduction or the conclusion.

While I found this book to be an effective exercise in the art of the short story, I was even more moved by the flaws each character in every story displayed. Wolff had grand success in getting down to the heart of who and what people are, and that is, in essence, good people that usually display less than admirable traits. We all have those idiosyncrasies that make us unique and often troubling to our friends and family, and Wolff captures perfectly normal, though certainly troublesome, eccentricities amongst his characters that give us all we need to know about their particular story.

This is a very fast and interesting read, and if you ever wanted to engage in a deep character study in the genre of the short story, this is the collection for you.

~Scott William Foley, author of The Imagination's Provocation: Volume II: A Collection of Short Stories

Tobias Wolff writes short stories pertaining to issues such as spousal abuse, envy, and lying. Wolff understands the conflicts his fiction characters face because he has addressed about those personal situations in his memoirs. His fiction is so real, it reads as nonfiction. Buy this book, buy them all. Wolff is an adventuresome author with adventuresome characters, himself included.

The characters in Tobias Wolff's short stories are typically ordinary people in relatively ordinary circumstances yet he creates through them such vivd glimpses of humanity that we recognize our friends ,relatives,neighbors and ourselves in them.
Powerful writing that is subtle and yet somehow unforgettable.

All of his short fiction collections are equally enjoyable and I would have a hard time recommending one as opposed to any other. This particular book contains several stories that will pull you in and cause you to want to explore more. This is a book that can be opened at random to any of the selections and read with great enjoyment.

I think this book is excellent. It covers every area of product management in just enough detail. One can tell that it was written by a real practitioner with a great experience and track record in product management.
If your organization is a product organization I recommend this book as your product management manual.

With any book regarding Product Development, one will be looking for valuable insight and, most of all, application of knowledge. Marty does an excellent job and both of these.

There are tons of books on marketing, user interface design, business strategy and technology, but this is the first book I've ever heard of that really attempts to codify and describe what good product management is all about. There is shockingly little material that describes even the basics of this vital function, and Mr. Cagan's book covers not only the basics but also some of the more esoteric elements of a product manager's existence. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand product management more effectively as well as to practicioners who need a reference guide. As a product manager myself, I will keep this book right on my desk at work, and over time I imagine it will become well-thumbed!

I just finished reading Inspired by Marty Cagan. Marty runs the SVPG group in Silicon Valley and offers onsite consulting related to product management in software companies. In a series of essays, Inspired explains the basics of product management. What's the difference between product management and product marketing? What's the difference between product management and project management? What are personas and when do you use them? How does product management work in an agile environment? What is agile and what is waterfall? These questions and more are addressed in the book. Inspired is a great combination of what to do and examples of how to do it. If you're new to product management, check out this book.

The best recommendation I can give this book is that I've already purchased 4 copies to give to friends and colleagues, in addition to my own copy.

I have known Marty for years, and I leave every encounter with him with a fresh, clear perspective on what I thought was a problem that would take me weeks to unravel. After each of these encounters I think, "Why can't we just bottle Marty? I need a good dose of him more often, and he's in such high demand." And here it is, Marty in a bottle.

In this book, Marty describes roles of the product team, including the PM, and guidelines for deciding what, and IF, to build. His points are so clear and make such good sense they have that special stamp of brilliance--seeming obvious the minute you hear them (and yet, somehow, no one else is able to articulate them). Highly, highly recommended for new product organizations as they lay the groundwork as well as existing organizations looking to improve their products and the way they work.

This book should be required reading on college campuses thru-out America. My opinion. I was fortunate enough to meet the General also on the "rock" in '83. I was busy working in the pharmacy(Hospital Corpsman) at the flight-line clinic and turn around to see this tall General standing there. He ask me for some aspirins for his bad hip. I guess he'd just finished flying. I have never forgot that meeting. I could see how he could succeed against any odds, he had a presence that could not be denied. Truly an American treasure.

As a black Marine (1961-1965) I found the book to answer a lot of my questions, and to help me understand what was going on in my world at the time. That's because I had a very good relationship with the others members of my team who were all white. The only person I had a problem with was my Lt. and I know he just didn't like black folk. His book said the things that needed to be said, he told the truth about the times and what he had to do to overcome things. I felt that in many ways his story was mine, although I only spent 4 years in the corps. Again thanks for your work. Once a Marine always a Marine.

INTO THE TIGER'S JAW has been an inspiration to my students and to me. In Lt. General Petersen we met a courageous man who was not afraid to stand up for what he felt was just and honorable---a man of integrity who overcame obstacles that would have defeated a lesser man. We felt shame at the injustices that he often endured and pride in his accomplishments. Thank you General Petersen and J. Alfred Phelps for this magnificent book and for introducing us to another American hero and role model.

Into the Tigers Jaw is a very impressive account of Lt. General Frank Petersen's life in the Marine Corps. J Alfred Phelps does a splendid job here depicting the determination and perserverance of a highly decorated Marine who paved the way for today's generation of Black Marine Officers. Petersen's strong will and devotion to duty enabled him to succeed in a organization at a time when Black American's represented such a minute percentage of the ranks in the Armed Forces. There is never a dull moment in this book, it grips your attention from beginning to end.
I borrowed the book from the library, after reading it I bought it, and today it's part of my private library.

It's one thing to hear about how great someone is; it's something totally different to have met that person and to KNOW how great that person is. Lt. Gen. Petersen was my Wing Commander while I was stationed in Okinawa (Headquarters, G-3) during my '83-'84 tour of "The Rock." Though we chatted briefly on a few occasions after his afternoon workouts (yes, he ran daily with that bad hip), he helped me forge an extremely strong sense of duty and honor, and he has been a very positive influence in my life that carries on even today. What's great about the book is that it grabs you and dives right in, taking you on a spellbinding trip that explores the heart and soul of a true battle-hardened, no-nonsense warrior. It could also serve as a seminal work on the history of race relations in the military over the past 50 years. Readers will be thrilled, fascinated, and even brought to tears as they become one with the words which flow so well that it's almost as if General Petersen has a direct link to your brain. There is high drama on all fronts, whether it's in the cockpit of an F-4 Phantom sustaining 37mm anti-aircraft fire, or in the military courtroom showcasing some of the world's most notorious people. The story of Lt. Gen. Petersen's personal life and his career in the Corps will be very inspirational and highly motivating for anyone who reads it. What else would you expect from a Marine?

Semper Fidelis.

A friend sent us the second edition,before travelling to Rome and Florence in 1999. My husband and I thought the book was far superior to the other travel books we used.It had a real personal touch, plus the suggestions were wonderful. The book was amazing. Every restaurant that Doug recommended was terrific. We are returning to Italy next year, and I just purchased the 5th Edition . Plus, I have emailed the author and he has responded to my questions in a timely manner.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is planning a trip to Italy.

We have been thinking about traveling to Europe. We read the Tuscany & Umbria Guide on Italy and our choice of country was decided.
Since Mr. Morris has lived in Italy, he has the knowledge of the country.
Thanks Mr. Morris for a fantastic book.

Donna & Mike Lareau, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Concise easy to read guide. Organized by the different regions of Italy. Included are itineraries, maps and most importantly the "sidebars" which are shaded areas of a page with hints and facts that other guide books don't offer. Also a included are blank pages for travel notes. Agreat value for the money.

This book is packed with info. I lived in Italy for four years and was looking for a good reference for a trip I plan to take as soon as I have both the time and the money...yadda yadda. Anyway, parusing this book brings back the memories and offers little "insider" vignettes not only about the different places you can explore, but also about the culture, food, tipping and even explains how to get your car towed... (Hey, you never know...) It's obvious that this writer has spent some time in Italy and has written a comprehensive book. This is not your generic guide book that covers just the basics. This one goes in depth. Note that the author does not have books on any other country... he seems to be a specialist.

As an experienced traveler who has lived all over the world, I am always grateful when I find a travel guide that helps me integrate myself into another country easily. Morris' volume helped me find the best sights, stay in the best hotels, and eat at the restaurants and cafes that the local frequent. Use this book and you will have a great time in Italy.

Tons of sex and violence, wit, very well fleshed out characters, and a completely engaging story, this is my personal favorite of the Zancharthus trilogy. The scene at Froct's mansion alone is worth the price of the book!

Yippee!!! Mark does it again. J&L is another triumph for Mr. Rogers(Hehehe). It continues the story line of Mancdaman Zancharthus, High Priest of Terchnobog, that was started in Blood+Pearls. Full of sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll (okay, substitute magic for rnr). Any free spirit will love this book. It could, in fact, concevebly change you political views

The author hits the mark again in this second book of the Pre-Zorachus trilogy. This book focuses on Jagutai and Lilitu, and how Jagutai is sent back to Khymir by his father, the great Khan.

Mark Rogers takes on "forbidden" themes with such gusto, that the reader cannot help being swept along with the prose. My one caveat is that this is not for the under 18 crowd.

I especially enjoyed the author's explanations for how magic works in his world.

It was a striking blow for women's equality when the pregnant woman in labor protects her husband, defeats the maurauding demons, and delivers a happy, bouncing baby boy.

Buy this book today!

If you have made it to this book then hopefully you have read Blood & Pearls which is the book before this one. This book continues right where that one left off. Our characters are all embroiled in the steaming cesspool that is Khymir. Mark E. Rogers portrays and evil society better than anyone I have ever read. His evil society and the people in it and the depraved things they do make the evil people in contemporary fantasy look tame in comparison. Mr. Rogers will shock you with his style of Dark Fantasy which melds Fantasy, Horror, and Erotica all into a hot and steaming series of books. This book is fantastic and will be difficult to put down without reading it from cover to cover in a single sitting.

So, if you have read Blood & Pearls then you definately want to read this. The story is not finished. You still MUST read the rest of the story. The evil of Khymir still has mysteries which you have yet to have heard.

This book as with the others is intended for mature audiences only. I would rate it an NC-17 rating in terms of who should read it. Aside from that word of caution it is a great read!

Mark E. Rogers, Jagutai and Lilitu (Infinitypublishing.com, 2001)

I knew it had to happen sometime-- Christian high-fantasy porn. And I dreaded that day. But that day is here, and I doubt it's going away any time soon. I wasn't really aware of it when I started Jagutai and Lilitu, but it (the high-fantasy porn bit, at least) became obvious quite early on. The Christian bit pops in later, but I'm getting ahead of myself.

Jagutai and Lilitu begins where the first book in the series, Blood and Pearls, left off. (Full disclosure: I haven't read Blood and Pearls.) Jagutai has fled Khymir, disgusted with the city. Zancharthus has overthrown the rule of the previous despot, Dessicatorius, and ascended to the position himself, while also priming himself to become the high priest of Tchernobog, the subject of one of the city's death cults. Zancharthus, however, doesn't believe Tchernobog exists, and intends to use his power to destroy the cult as part of his efforts to reform the city. Zancharthus sends, again, for Jagutai, who doesn't want to go back. The problem is, he's an ascetic who's fascinated with a temple prostitute, Lilitu, from a rival death cult, that of Tsa Terrathu. Tsa Terrathu's previous high priestess, Torisanna, has left the cult and is now Zancharthus' paramour/wife (depending on how you want to look at it).

And that's all in the first five pages.

After the first couple of chapters, I didn't want to like this book. Not because of the prurience, of which I am always a fan, but because the writing in the first pages is deadly dull. I understand the author has to catch things up for those already involved in the series and introduce all the (many, many) plot threads for those who are coming in fresh. But I decided before I threw it against a wall I'd give it until the promised Possessed Pig Harem mentioned on the back cover. (It's not as funny as it sounds, as the back cover also says.) When I got through that section, which contains a reference to events covered in Book Three of the series, and I found myself knowing I was going to read said Book Three, I knew I was in trouble.

(Now the Christian bit shows up, but I'll leave you to read for yourself. Let's just say the symbolism is not disguised in any way.)

Once the book takes off, it really does take off. It took me a full month to read this, and I finished the last two hundred pages in just over a week. (Yes, the first hundred are that bad.) The first bit reads like a bad Beeline porn novel with not as much sex; the last bit reads like what Moorcock's Gloriana might have, if Moorcock had been drunk, stoned on pain medication, and more of an immoral lecher while writing it. (Gloriana, for those of you who've not read it, is the high point of high-fantasy erotica. Go find a copy and read it. Now.) I think the transition is that it starts taking itself a bit more seriously as a novel, as opposed to a work of Christian high-fantasy porn, and so starts reading like a piece of fiction rather than a piece of genre fiction. Some of the characters are still two-dimensional, but some minor ones get fleshed out to the point where you start caring about them, and the whole Tchernobog thing starts becoming more of a compelling point.

That said, there are still some flaws in the latter part of the book. Most notably, Rogers introduces a whole new plotline about three-quarters of the way through with no indication it is in any way tied to anything that has come before (it is, but in the most tenuous of ways; you'll figure it out in the last few pages). Not necessarily an unforgivable sin when working in a series, but Rogers could take a tip from Moorcock, Robert Parker, or any of the other greats where series fiction is concerned on how to structure such things. (I'm assuming here that the events involved in the plotline will become important in the third book, Night of the Long Knives; depending on to whom you listen, NotLK is either the conclusion to the trilogy or the third in a five-book series. I'll report back after I read it. In any case, if said events don't end up playing a major role, I'm going to drop the rating on this one a star.)

Readable, once you get to the meat of the story, and ends up being quite fun. Just give yourself until the Possessed Pig Harem, and if you're still not convinced, feel free to throw it against the wall. ***

This has got to be one of the top chess books . It is superbly written and by that I mean 6 stars . Lasker was world champion for 28 years -- you read his book and you will be champion in your small league for sure!!
I haven't gone through the whole book but already am losing sleep over it --- it is that good !! Do yourself a favor -- pick this up NOW . I am an average player and I do not write good reviews like this . Lasker will show u how and why to play . Will definitely improve your rating to 2000+ -- NO MATTER WHERE YOU START FROM !! If you do not see any improvement , I will say this --- you have not read this book ! It probably stayed on your shelf for too long .

I like this book. It starts off with the basic rules and quickly gets into openings and strategy. I wish they would put it out in "algebraic chess notation" which is the only drawback. Since I get an A in all my classes as a 7th grade student I can understand this book well even with the old form of chess notation.

"Lasker's Manual of Chess" doesn't mess arround. It is absolutely perfect for someone who needs a brief reminder of the basic rules and then is ready to get quickly into the strategic parts of chess. It is a well written book for an adult reader or older teenage reader; younger kids or someone who is a super beginner should start with "Chess For Jrs" or possibly "Learn chess: A complete Course".
This may be an older book but it is very well written and a largely forgotten about classic.

This is one of the best Introductory Chess Books ever written for an adult. The only drawback is that it needs to be written in Algebraic Notation.
The former world champion also covers some more advanced concepts throughout the text.

This wonderful classic is very well written for an adult (would be difficult reading for most kids) who is either a beginner or a player who has aquired basic skills. It provides a good mixture of basics with even some more advanced concepts. Lasker was a great chess teacher.
Then why 3 stars instead of 5? This is because the book requires some serious updating. For the more advanced player the openings are very outdated. The book needs to be written in the more modern and efficient Algebraic form of notation. And, as already mentioned, it is difficult reading for possible use by a young reader.

This book is a MUST read, but be warned: Once you start reading this, you might not be able to put the book down until the very last page is read! I read different genres, and my favorite authors are very different in writing styles and subjects. I enjoy "discovering" new authors, and "Letters to a Secret Lover" is my first Toni Blake novel. I will be reading more of Ms. Blake's novels.

The novel starts with a short Prologue with our heroine, Lindsey, and gives the readers an idea of what Lindsey is all about. The following chapter has Lindsey running away from what she thought was her "ideal" and "perfect" life in Chicago. She decides to visit Moose Falls, Montana, where she visited her Aunt Millie once as a child. Aunt Millie passed away within the last year, and Lindsey thinks Moose Falls will be the perfect place to escape.

Even though in the beginning Lindsey is portrayed as being a bit selfish and self-centered, she has endearing qualities. Once she arrives to Moose Falls, even her suitcase is jammed with high heeled shoes and matching purses, without even one pair of sneakers for the mountains!

Her first night in Moose Falls, Lindsey gets drunk, and meets the hero of the story, Rob Colter. Rob is hot, and Linsdey thinks he is the perfect guy to get her back into the sex game. Even better, Rob is the new owner of Aunt Millie's canoe livery, which Lindsey now wants to buy.

The story progesses as Lindsey tries to convince Rob to sell her the business, and she believes her "charms" will have Rob handing the business over to her. Rob does not fall for Lindsey's "charm", and actually finds her a bit annoying and tries to avoid her.

Rob has a big secret, and yes (not a spoiler), it is a legimate secret, and is very real-to-life. I did not expect Rob's past to be what it was revealed to be, and it changes the dynamics of this love story.

Although the possibility exists for this novel to be only about steamy sex and the couple "falling madly in love" in one day without any "real" obstacles, the author avoids this path by showing that Lindsey and Rob are "real people" with "real" problems and fears. Both characters are far from perfect, and still have a lot of growing to do. Rob is not your typical "hero", but it is difficult not to root for him.

I think the author makes the reader stop and think about some things: Are people limited on what they can forgive others for? Is there certain situations where a person does not deserve a second chance? My own: What would I do if I was in Lindsey's place when Rob revealed his secret to me? How would I have reacted to this type of information? Could I live with someone with this type of past? Lindsey and Rob are both seeking forgiveness, even though both cannot receive forgiveness from the two people they really want it from.

Near the end, Rob's world as he has known it for the last year may come to a crashing end, and the reader is kept on the edge of their seat wondering if Rob and Lindsey can really live "happily ever after", and if people really are forgiving of others.

I picked up this book because I just love the cover. Contemporary is not my normal read as I usually prefer Historical Romance, but this book did not dissapoint. Complex, likable characters and a believable plot kept me reading long into the night. I love a wounded hero and I think this is easier to pull off in a historical, but in Rob Coulter Ms. Blake gave us a convincing wounded hero who captured me from the first moment she introduced him. Lindsey is a likable heroine with her own problems; her bubbly personality the perfect foil for Rob's dark silent hero. And I must mention the wonderful setting and great cast of secondary characters.

I've not read Ms. Blake's work before, but I'm now off to buy another of her books. If you like contemporary romance, I definitely recommend this story.

If you enjoy great, romantic stories that are also sexy & hot, this is your book. The story is engaging and moving -- the characters very likeable and interesting. The romance wonderful and the sex hot. I read this in 2 days which is a record for me. I've read many Toni Blake books and she never disappoints. Enjoy!

Letters to a Secret Lover is a great summer read. It is full of "I wonder what is going to happen next?" thoughts as you turn the pages. It starts out with a bang and ends with a very satisfying conclusion. The book is filled with great descriptions of location and secondary characters who surround the main couple with support in times of conflict. You will be surprised to find out the name of "the secret lover".

After suffering a humiliating break up that garnered tabloid attention, advice columnist Lindsey Brooks travels to the wilds of Montana to visit the ranch that was almost her inheritance from a distant aunt. After sunning Aunt Millie's offer when she was alive, Lindsey attempts to purchase the land, home, and canoe livery from the new owner, but he has no interest. As Lindsey decides to remain in Moose Falls and get to know that interesting woman she barely knew, she realizes that she had quite a bit in common with her aunt. And soon finds that she is falling for a man with another woman's name tattooed on his heart - the surly owner of Millie's property, carpenter Rob Colter. Rob is hoping that it is just a convenience thing, but has gotten used to having Lindsey (or as he likes to affectionately call her, "Abby") around. But Rob is a quiet man with a past that he doesn't share too easily, and Lindsey tends to reveal a bit too much in her blog, bringing danger and his past to his door.

Blake is the rare author that can combine a plotline with ultra spicy romance. She takes both her lead characters on personal journeys that force them to confront their greatest fears and become better people because of it. Despite their obvious differences, the two are soul mates in more ways than one. Her secondary characters were also well developed and vivid, making readers want to visit the little town in the mountains again.

I'm a big fan of motivational literature. However, this book is a little tepid. It might be because the material is pretty old and the writing style and anecdotes reflect the era in which it was written.

It does have some classic principles and it's not a very long book so it's not a total waster of money. I would look for it at a flea market, though. In fact, I bought it used through an Amazon store and it came to me all yellowed and very old looking. It might not even be available new anymore. I'm not sure.

Excellent book, easy read, full of life lessons and wisdom. Great book to share with others.

This book is one of the most powerful, yet easy to read books on the market and it's principles are timeless! It's truly a "SIB KIS" work of art. I have had the pleasure of hearing the author speak and most recently a 90 minute private tour of his business where he personally directed me to classics by Oswald Chambers, Spurgeon and could quote passages and find their location from memory. This visit was unannounced and Charlie had just returned from a chemo treatment! Charlie is living proof of his claims and if any one doubts the connection he makes with our creator to these principles needs to spend just five minutes with him to understand their validity. Charlie is "suffering" with terminal prostate cancer. Yet to see him, be hugged by him and hear the energy in his soul would put most young people to shame. Charlie has no fear of his future and actually is looking forward to this next phase of his "journey". I have read many books that "tell" people how to live. Charlie actually lives his philosophy and tells them to stop trying to be perfect and enjoy the one who is! If you read this book years ago and found it helpful, read it again as odds are you situation in life has changed, but fortunately these principles have not. Even better purchase several books and share them with your friends, family and business associates, it's a great way to pass on the powerful message that can benefit anyone who dares to take them to heart.

I have heard Charlie Jones speak many times. His program designed to turn his kids into readers worked in my family too. This little book is a real gem. It can be a lifesaver on days when there seems no place to turn to for encouragement. His persaonal responsibility attitude is much needed today. Rather than looking for the most fulfilling job or purpose in life it is far more useful to be responsible and turn our lives into positive and purposful examples for others. Life truly can be tremendous if one has the right perspective. Charlie can help you there!

This is a great book that is simple, to the point, and something that you can pick up for a quick read almost every day. Highly recommend.