Fletcher Books

The Daisy Dalrymple series is one of my favorites. Great for a quick escape and entertaining read.

The Honorable Daisy Dalrymple Fletcher is at the manor house of the Earl of Haverhill to provide support to her best friend Lucy, who is marrying Lord Gerald Bincombe in a few days. Daisy's husband Detective Chief Inspector Alec Fletcher is to meet her just before the wedding, but when someone murders Lady Eve, Haverhill uses his clout to have Alec assigned to investigate instead of the local constabulary.

Daisy informs her spouse that the victim collected gossip on aristocrats over the years, which means that just about everyone attending the wedding had a motive. Before Alex gets very far, Lord Farthingay, the heir dies most likely by poison. The next day Lucy's fiancée is found bleeding from a blow to the head and the doctor is not sure whether he will recover from the trauma. Alec and Daisy are under pressure to solve the case before the killer strikes again.

A MOURNING WEDDING is a complex entertaining mystery that followers of the series will enjoy as Daisy is the pregnant amateur sleuth mingling with the aristocracy in a way her spouse cannot in order to aid the official investigation. The married couple is a fine sleuthing team working together to solve the case while adding ardor to their unique relationship that fans of Carola Dunn will appreciate.

Harriet Klausner

A wedding in the country, a country manor full of gossipy aristocratic relatives with scandalous secrets to hide, and murder -- it could only be the latest installment in the charming and light hearted Daisy Dalrymple mystery series. In "Mourning Wedding," Daisy's good friend, Lucy Fotheringay, is about to be married to her patient and loving longtime beau, Gerald. The wedding is to take place at Lucy's grandfather's palatial manor in the country, and Daisy has agreed to come down ahead of the guests in order to give her friend some much needed moral support. What she finds is Lucy in two minds about whether or not she actually wants to marry Gerald, and a house full of eccentric relatives -- some nice and some rather poisonous. And while Daisy is rather troubled about Lucy's frame of mind, her worries about her friend soon fly out the window when Lucy's grandaunt Eva, a collector of family gossip, is found strangled in bed. Soon, Daisy is trying to figure which one of Lucy's relatives is guilty of murder even as she battles morning sickness. Was grandaunt Eva murdered because of her penchant for collecting scandal? Or is there some mad murderer bent on decimating the Fotheringay family? Fortunately for Daisy, her husband, Chief Inspector Alec Fletcher of Scotland Yard has been assigned to the case, and together they're bound to discover who the murderer is before (s)he can strike again...

If you're in the mood for a nice, well written, lighthearted murder mystery set in the roaring twenties, "A Mourning Wedding" will definitely please. While not a very "deep" mystery novel that is full of cunning twists and turns, "A Mourning Wedding" was such a pleasant and enjoyable read, and Daisy (the detecting heroine) was such a nice and engaging character, that one soon finds oneself deeply immersed in the goings-on in the book. Charming, engaging and thoroughly enjoyable, "A Mourning Wedding" proved to be an all around pleasing read.

This is one great book. It ranks up there with "a palette for murder. The characters are three dimensional and exciting. The descriptions of New Orleans are rich and vivid. You will learn things, like what wax records are. A great book for a loyal fan or a beginer of this series.

Most of the book has twists and turns that the reader will find surprising. But some of the chapters are far-fetched. At least, the last couple of chapters. The plot becomes irrelevent, as do the characters. Although I enjoyed the book, the writing gets sloppy. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to "Provence--To Die For," which hits bookstores in April 2002. I am a Murder, She Wrote "fan," but the better mysteries are in the past. Maybe the next murder mystery will have more substance than the last five books.

Late night music and dancing, streets packed with tourists, the bizarre crossing of Southern etiquette, Voodoo practice, and jazz music, the sultry weather - chapter by chapter, the city of New Orleans during Jazz Fest sets the mood in Murder, She Wrote: Murder in a Minor Key. This book is a sweet note in the series, full of the usual twists and devices that both inform the plot and educate the reader (who has ever heard of a "cylinder" recording?). I personally can't wait to get myself to New Orleans for a chicory coffee, a plate of beignets, and a signed copy of this book. Bravo, Fletcher and Bain.

During a previous trip to New Orleans Jessica met and became fast friends with Wayne Copely, a jazz critic for the local paper who took it upon himself to introduce the mystery writer to both jazz and the unique cuisine of New Orleans. This book takes Jessica back to the Big Easy to promote her latest book and to her delight she finds that her visit coincides with a huge jazz festival. Once again Jessica hooks up with the effusive Mr. Copely and he continues to introduce his Yankee friend to the wonders of New Orleans.

This time however Jessica is not the center of Copely's attentions for he is on the trail of one of the early masters of Jazz. Actually, he is on the trail of some very old cylinder recordings that may or may not exist. Not many people believe that the recordings exist or were ever made for that matter but Copely is determined to exhaust every trail for the discovery of these recordings would be a major event in the jazz world. Apparently his efforts take him too far however for Copely turns up dead sitting against the tomb of Marie Laveau, the famous voodoo Queen. Rattlesnake bite says the coroner and the police close the case before poor old Wayne is even in the ground. Everything is just too rushed for Jessica's taste and naturally she begins to investigate on her own, searching both for a possible murderer and also for the elusive recordings.

Some of the characters in this book may come across as a little far-fetched but anyone who has ever visited the Crescent City and especially the French Quarter will find each and every character presented to be perfectly believable. Bain also does an admirable job of describing the atmosphere of New Orleans, from the oppressive heat to the food, and from the lively music to the darker criminal elements. I feel certain that this author has made several trips to New Orleans and he has soaked up the flavor of the city like a sponge.

Despite the numerous possibilities to let the story roam through the mystique of the Quarter, Bain did a good job of keeping the murder at the center of the plot. I must admit that I thought that the story dragged a little at times and that the author got just a little too caught up in some details that had nothing to do with the mystery but overall the story flowed along pretty well. This is also the most elusive mystery that I have found in this series because there are just so many dead ends and red herrings floating about. In truth, there are probably just a few too many false leads and Jessica's ability to sort through them all so quickly is just a tad unbelievable.

In spite of these flaws however, this is another winner from the pen of Donald Bain and is certainly not a book that any fan of this series will want to miss. If you are also a great fan of New Orleans like myself you will want to move this book to the top of your to be read list because this story just oozes New Orleans charm. Combine this book with a good stout Hurricane (the drink) and maybe some crawfish and prepare for an evening "Way Down Yonder in New Orleans."

This was my first REM book and I read it with a vengeance. Back when Automatic had only just come out, I had only just completed my REM music collection and was absolutely into them. At that time they were basically the only group I was into but all I knew was what I could gather from the songs and from those clippings in 'Best Of'. I soon knew every line of those clippings and decided to sought out the book they came from. BANG. I was hooked - completely - every line, every page I wanted to read so much. Packed with information I took up like a sponge with water - I seriously couldn't put in down.

The book is written in short paragraphs wildly spaced over glossy pages, with some great photos and an useful comprehensive list of the standard releases. It's very easy to read - the short paragraphs keeping you interested chapter after chapter. The book's ideal as a starter for REM information and for people who have a more casual interest, rather than heavier, more indepth books such as 'It crawled From The South'. The faults lie in its generalisations and the way it plays up to the fans, giving us what we want - "hey this book's wonderful - it says REM are great". Its so easy for music books to do that and REMarks is no exception. Sometimes Fletcher does sound artificial, but then again, I still read it over and over.

I've only recently become a fan of REM and I picked up this book to read about the band's origins and early history. Fletcher did a great job with describing the early music scene in Georgia and detailing the birth of REM. He never asked you to learn too many details and tidbits about the comprehensive world of music and never went too deep into the motivations of the songwriting. But the band does give input here and there and the rise and success of the band is very well-documented. I'd like to read Fletcher's take on the 2nd decade of REM. He did that good of a job in this book.

Being an REM fan for over a decade, this was the first book of their's that I had ever purchased... this book is chock full of information about the band, and it has some great pictures! If you are into the history of REM... this is a MUST!

I loaned REMarks to a "friend". This friend probably never looked at the book, but threw it on the back seat floor/beater -- junked the car with my book still in there. Of all the not-so-nice things this person did, this one sticks in my craw the most... I had my nose in this book all the time... A MUST

The story is everything fluffy, warm, fuzzy and unexciting. If you are a devoted fan of Donna Fletcher, you'll probably love this book. Those of us who have never read her works and was anticipating dramatic escapades, it was surprisingly bland and continually flat. I noted the storyline was heavy into messages against prejudice and preaching how one should look at life. I didn't find the messages overwhelming to the point of reader overload; the book just wasn't what I was expecting from reading the back cover. To give Remember the Magic its due, it did keep my interest. It was a pleasant tale and I enjoyed it, but I doubt I will look for more books by this author as I like my books with a more rousing storyline.

It appears Remember The Magic is a somewhat sequel to Wedding Spell. Just because Remember The Magic wasn't for me, it doesn't mean it wasn't a good book and should pass up.

Five hundred years ago, Sydney Wyrrd made the most difficult choice of her life, leaving her beloved Duncan in the ancient Highlands while she zoomed forward to the future. With him being mortal and her an immortal witch, she feared their love doomed. Now, she has returned. For Duncan, only thirteen years have passed, and while he has not been strictly faithful, he has never truly loved another. Both lovers want another chance, but there are difficulties. Sydney is still a witch, and it's the burning times for witches. Too, she has come to have a fondness for modern conveniences that Duncan's world does not even know of yet. Finally, Duncan's sister has far different matrimonial plans for their clan.

*** With a lot of love, understanding, and some help from Hollywood magic of the future, Sydney and Duncan might just have a chance at happiness. Donna Fletcher's characteristically warm humor and familiar characters from past books will make this a sweet read for her legions of fans. ***
Amanda Killgore.

Five centuries ago the witch Sydney Wyrdd and Scottish clan chief Duncan fell in love, but both know the helplessness of a relationship as he must care for his people above his own needs. She flees into the future for his sake. Sydney helps Tempest the Ancient One regain her lost love. Feeling more than just gratitude, Tempest wants the same for Sydney. Tempest returns Sydney back in time to her beloved.

However, though heartbroken and haunted by Sydney, who vanished thirteen years ago Duncan is expected to marry Eileen of clan Carron. That is until Duncan and Sydney see one another as his future bride arrives at his keep. They realize that they still love one another, but the problems that caused her to leave still remain and are compounded by the alliance the honorable Duncan has made through his upcoming marriage with clan Carron.

REMEMBER THE MAGIC is an entertaining romantic fantasy that stars Sydney, a secondary player in previous tales, one who Donna Fletcher's fans have waited for to get her own chance at love. The interesting story line hooks the audience as it seems impossible for the star-crossed duo to find happiness. The support cast, especially the magical beings (like Beatrice and Tempest) and Duncan's sister Gwen, augment the plot. Though Eileen pales compared to Sydney and Gwen, fans will appreciate Ms. Fletcher's magical charm.

Harriet Klausner

There are times when you can pick up a book and find yourself totally enchanted by the first couple of pages you read, but then it loses something. Let me say this then, that will not happen here as you continue find to your great delight that the enchantment doesn't end and this one will keep you glued throughout the book. With this wonderful story you will find yourself caught up and thoroughly enchanted not only by the magical prose of this author but the very essence of a love that defies time.

Sydney Wyrrd is a seven hundred old witch (who looks to be about 30 something). She fled the Scottish Highlands five hundred years ago, leaving behind her beloved Duncan whom she believed would be in danger if she stayed. Now two of her very good friends, powerful witches themselves, have offered her a chance to travel back through time to see if Duncan's love for her was everlasting. Though since leaving, she has lived five hundred years, she is returned to the Highlands to a time, thirteen years after she'd left.

Duncan, has come to the woods, every day for thirteen years, still dreaming of and remembering Sydney. He sees her, as he's seen her every day for the past thirteen years, yet does not believe she is real --- that she is only a vision, a remembrance of a love he cannot forget. As they both struggle to overcome the anger and distrust of what he felt was her betrayal of his love for her, the same warlock who engineered the deceptions that hastened her earlier departure would feel compelled to try to destroy them again.

All I can add to this is that I have never enjoyed a fantasy tale so much as I have this one. The sensual love scenes were amazing, the love story itself so very moving, and the secondary characters fascinating. Beatrice, Sydney's sidekick fairy, whose wings were off kilter and head wreath that would not stay in place was a total delight who always brought a smile to my face and the rest of the characters, I am sure had their own stories and I am on a quest to locate them. This is a book to cherish - pure magical enchantment and one that should not be missed.

I'm traveling to Venice this October, and read this book in preparation for my trip. Although I haven't yet taken the trip, this book enlarged my understanding of the environmental challenges facing this fabled city.

Other books about Venice touch on its art, architecture, naval history, political history, and romance, but this book stepped outside that realm to give me a sense of the practical problems the residents face. One by one, the book explained the challenges with great clarity: the rising average sea level, the high tides, the catastrophic 1966 flood, the historical river diversions, the problem of gathering silt, the changing lagoon floor, the politics, the costly solutions-in-progress, their possibilities of success, and even some really wild speculative solutions, such as pumping seawater under the lagoon to try and raise the whole shebang.

This book is particularly rich in graphics and design, with each photograph, graph, and diagram enlarging the story. In that sense, it's like a science book, but not like the deadly boring ones we got assigned in high school--instead, a really clear and fascinating science text.

Only two criticisms.

First, the prose was fine up until the last several pages, and then seemed to start decaying a bit. Nothing catastrophic, probably just an editor messing it up a bit with the blue pencil.

Second, because it's a straightforward science presentation, it doesn't have the soul of a book like Venice Against the Sea: A City Besieged, by John Keahy. An author like Keahy gives personal impressions and enlarges your feel of the city, whereas this is straight science, policy, and solutions.

But the publisher, which is a foundation devoted to saving this nearly mythical city, deserves a lot of credit. The book is a valuable addition to my library that I will refer to just before my trip, and certainly, afterwards.

It is short but very informative, the pictures are great, the facts are incredible ... I love this book, it made me want to go to Venice before it becomes a history that we try guess where was it located on the map ...

Venice is a city with a glorious history but a very uncertain future. How to even have a future is the subject of this book. It presents a nontechnical description of the problem. Well, multiple problems. One is that buildings continue to subside into the silt. Another is the erosion of the wetlands around Venice. These act as a buffer against storms. Americans will note the resemblence to New Orleans. But the main problem is still hypothetical, though becoming less so with each additional year. Global warming. If sea levels rise by at least 8cm, or as much as 90cm, then we have a sticky wicket.

Various solutions are explored in the book. Barriers help reduce flooding. But the cost can be enormous if sea levels rise and storms worsen in frequency and intensity. Overall, the book cannot be read with optimism.

I have never been to Venice, nor did I manage to visit New Orleans before Katrina almost removed it entirely, but the plight that both of them were doomed to from their birth fascinates my environmental mind. Both cities were founded in wetlands out of some necessity. Both have survived until now because of constant fiddling with nature, although a significant part of each city's population has given up on the difficulties of living there.

Through the years, many attempts to engineer survival have turned out to be disastrous for both cities. The solution to just let them go is not acceptable for all of us who appreciate their influence on world culture. This book tells the story of Venice and its attempts in the past, present and future to save a cultural treasure. Its concepts apply equally well to New Orleans.

The book systematically tells the historical, economic, geological, geographical, biological and meteorological reasons that Venice is slowly sinking into the Adriatic sea. But it also tells about the attempts to save it, some of which have been disastrous, some have yet to be attempted. Certainly those who are planning the rebuilding of New Orleans should consult the scientists who are trying to save Venice.

The authors explain the problems and solutions to the lay reader using more than 100 color illustrations - drawings, artwork, photography and diagrams - and just enough words to explain each concept on a single page spread.

Now I have a great desire to investigate the lagoons around Venice and the city itself before it is lost.

Many of the stories contained in this book warmed my soul and brought tears to my eyes. This is an excellent tool for anyone undertaking a deepening of their spirituality or simply reflecting upon life and the love of humanity. There are lots of warm fuzzies for the soulful being in this book. I will be rereading this book and sharing it with my friends, too!

I have finally been fortunate in coming across a book of short stories that I can read to children at bedtime. Morales, ethics, and just the right thing to do are a few of the ingredients that I have found in this great book. The stories are fascinating and absorbing-perfect for keeping the attention of all. This book is a must read again and again.

In the busy and hectic life that many of us lead, it was wonderfully refreshing to be able to read these captivating short stories while waiting in airports or while having just enough energy at the end of the day to get through a few pages. But the messages and thought provoking tales brought much more enjoyment and reflection than just the time it took to read the few pages that Mr. Fletcher artfully crafted volumes of heartful thoughts into each and every story. Highly recommend for the busy exec needing to remember why he/she is working so hard or perfect for "family night" or after dinner read for the entire family.

Take a break from today's stress-filled world...

Still Reflections, Stories of the Heart takes me away from the everyday pressures of life. I recommend this book for both children and adults. The stories have subtle, positive messages that appeal to any person who believes in the basic goodness of people. People of all faiths, all ethnicities and all parts of the world appear in these gentle stories. Truly enjoyable.

After the fourth time my son insisted upon borrowing this book from the library, I've decided it's definitely a keeper. He obviously loves the book - it's entertaining and informative.

I love the book for its concise presentation of some very, very big concepts. Not for the creationist crowd, this book covers important theories such as the Big Bang, evolution and the extinction of the dinosaurs (and even mentions the fact that these are, in fact, still debated).

Highly recommended. I'll buy it and give it as gifts for years to come.

This is one of the best books I have ever bought my son who is three years old - and he has a lot of books. It's entertaining and full of surprises!!!

Most of the action on these pages depended on sliding tabs along a slot. Very often, this did not work smoothly, and the action was not impressive when it did work properly. My collection of pop-up books was not enhanced by this book, so I sent it back. The narrative story that goes with the action is clever written and instructive for young children.

This is a cute and informative way to show people how life has progressed on our planet and how the planet itself is developing within the universe. It reminds me of Larry Gonick's books on science.

Burke Longton a wealthy American has come to Scotland to find a brother he's never met. Unfortunately before he's made any progress, he's thrown into prison on a trumped up charge. Luckily, before Burke has arranged an escape for himself he and other prisoners are rescued by a ragtag bunch led by a tiny virago female with attitude! Accustomed to giving orders, Burke is noticeably annoyed to be told to obey HER commands without question.

Going by the name of Storm, she is a self-appointed angel fighting against the injustices perpetuated against the innocent and poor who out of necessity must steal food in order to survive. Having been too late to save her husband from the terrors of Scottish justice, she vowed to never let that happen and rescued as many as she could. She's walled her heart off vowing to never love again, but the arrogant American Burke Longton is doing his best to change her mind with gentle protective embraces and fevered kisses that Storm is finding harder and harder to resist.

*** Storm and Burke were both compelling and likeable characters in this non-stop action page turner. The story was well written and though it portrays Storm as a `Scottish lass' her dialogs were not written with any of the Scottish pronunciations that are more customary for these historicals. However, the dialogs were sharp, witty, and the foreplay banter between the protagonists was amusing and sensual. In the quest to locate Burke's long-lost brother the author kept the pace perfectly adequate right up to the rather surprise ending while masterfully setting up the sequel for another quest in finding a missing child. Fletcher gives an enjoyable read in a very tender love story that shoots straight to the heart as Storm is finally able to acknowledge that it's okay to both love and live again. This should score well with fans and leave them all in high anticipation for Cullen's quest.

Marilyn Rondeau, RIO - Reviewers International Organization

Wealthy American Burke Longton has come to Scotland for his deceased father, in order to find the brother his father had to leave behind, and who has been lost to them ever since. Once there, he soon finds himself in jail, falsely accused, where he is taken by Storm-a female rebel and outlaw against the Scottish government-from the prison to safety.

Storm rescues those wrongly imprisoned for stealing food and like crimes, driven by the death of her own husband, whom she saw die in similar circumstances. His death has made her a strong crusader against such injustice, but she has walled herself off from any intimate ties or feelings-a wall which Burke soon determines to tear down.

Fletcher has written an endearing and interesting tale of love on the wrong side of the law, with a gentle and masculine hero and a strong-willed and vulnerable heroine. As they set out together to find Burke's long lost brother, Burke sets out to conquer a Storm, and slowly overcomes her fears with his wooing and talk of the wonders of America and its freedoms.

A tale as much of the times as of the two lovers, this book has the kind of depth that brings to life both the characters and the times, as we are swept along with the lovers' trek to solve the mystery surrounding a man being held prisoner who may be Burke's lost brother, to a surprising ending that will leave you ready for the next tale the book obviously sets us up for. Recommended.



Reviewed by Lee M



Copyright © 2006 CK2S Kwips and Kritiques. All rights reserved.

In the historical romance Taken By Storm, the dashing and brave American Burke Longton is in Scotland on a mission to save his imprisoned brother when, unfortunately, he also finds himself wrongly imprisoned. He is amazed when he is freed from the prison by a ragtag band of outlaws led by the beautiful and courageous Storm. When Storm and her men agree to help him locate and free his brother Burke joins the outlaws and finds he cannot resist his attraction to Storm. Burke is challenged to break the walls that Storm has built around her heart as she is determined to never love again. Even though Burke declares his love for Storm and is the first to touch her heart in years she knows that they can have no future as their destinies lie in separate lands.

***** Donna Fletcher's Taken By Storm is an adventurous romance set in the wild Scottish Highlands. It was exciting to read about a stubborn and courageous woman who leads a band of outlaws and who goes head to head with an obstinate American. This was the first historical romance I have read in many years, and it was a very enjoyable read with a surprisingly bittersweet ending. *****

Reviewed by Barbara Stabler for Huntress Reviews.

Locked in a Scottish prison, American Burke Longstan is rescued by outlaw woman Storm. She tells him to follow her men out, but he disobeys her order and instead follows her to insure she remains safe. He explains to her he is on a mission for his late dad to find his brother Cullen lost as an infant when his father fled Scotland leaving the child with his sister-in-law who died shortly after he departed. His dad never found his other son. Burke offers his help and money when his ship arrives. She agrees with the stipulation he follows her orders.

Burke and Storm learn that a man is reportedly being held prisoner at Glencurry, home of the abusive Earl of Balford. In the forest haven they talk strategy until Burke cannot resist kissing Storm. Though she liked the kiss Storm is a bit shook by the pushy American. No man has reached her like Burke has since her spouse was killed three years ago. They continue to work together to rescue the prisoner they assume is his brother while falling in love, but he has a future waiting for him in America while she has the gallows waiting for her.

Readers will root for the lead couple and her outlaw band to free his brother while wondering why there is a shroud of secrecy surrounding the prisoner. The story line is loaded with action from the moment that Storm and her band of merry outlaws free the stubborn Scottish-American and never slows down until the final confrontation. Though the heroine too often allows the hero to get away with disobeying direct orders from her even though she warns him of the consequences, the fine mystery of the prisoner and the delightful outlaws in love romance provide plenty of enjoyment to readers of great historical romances.

Harriet Klausner

Turning the pages of ALWAYS MEANS FOREVER by Deborah Fletcher Mello, we come face to face with Chef Darwin Tolliver, his player attitude, and his secret. Delving further into the pages we met smart, sexy, no nonsense attorney Bridget Hinton. She also has a secret. Darwin has major legal problems and he needs a first class, first-rate attorney; the best his money can afford. After speaking with Darwin, Bridget's instinct as an attorney kicks in. Scrutinizing the people he keeps in his company tells her his producers are devious.

ALWAYS MEANS FOREVER is a stand-alone book, but I enjoyed the revisit with the characters from The Right Side of Love. Mello captivates us as she blends the daily stress of life, working with unsavory characters and insecurities. She demonstrates that trust, respect, communication and loyalty are the major keys to solving life's problems, real or imaginary.

Reviewed by Toni Bonita
for The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Bridget Hinton has had a thing for Darwin Tolliver for years but his reputation as a love them and leave them kind man kept her from trying to get next to him. He has had a crush on her for years too and when he needs legal advice, she is the one he asks for help. Just as things start to heat up for them in the romance department, he has developed a medical problem that he is trying to deal with and his producer schemes to be a big name in television and sets him up in a very uncompromising position. Will Bridget believe that he was set up or will her love for him allow her to believe in him and stand by her man health problems and all? Interesting story with an explosive ending.

This is the first novel I've read by Mrs. Deborah Fletcher Mello. I can't say it was my favorite romance but it had a very interesting plot. This romance touched on quite a few social issues, such as a woman not wanting to have children, a man with erectile dysfunction disorder, and another woman with mental illness, with all these issues the author was still able to pull the storyline together quite well. The characters were well developed and with all their issues you thought this would have been an oh, so very serious novel, but it was quite humorous at times and I must admit LOL at some of Darwin's comments and antics throughout this story, especially surrounding his own problems. I thought the romance between Darwin and Bridget was sweet and endearing considering they were still able to engage in heated passion despite his penile problems. The brotha knew how to please his woman, what more could a woman ask for! Again, although it wasn't the best romance I've ever read, I still found it to be an intriguing and interesting read.

Fletcher Pratt makes history come alive in these short, challenging chapters. He gives many counterintuitive explanations, which always makes it an exciting read. He explains how life would be much different if the outcomes were different.

Like A SHORT HISTORY OF THE CIVIL WAR, Pratt's BATTLES THAT CHANGED HISTORY is a terrific entry-level volume, especially for the young reader. He combines a snappy, thrilling writing style with a keen ability to explain complex historical situations and an original thesis about the role of military power in world history.

The key to this book is the phrase "Changed History" in the title. In his introduction, Pratt takes pains to distinguish his list of battles from those of the progenitor of the genre, Sir Edward Creasy, whose "Fifteen Decisive Battles" provided the inspiration for Pratt's work. Pratt notes that so many famous Western battles (e.g. Hastings or Tours) actually played a defensive or reinforcing role in history rather than "changing history." This insight leads Pratt to choose some battles that many might view as eccentric (e.g. Beneventum, the original "Pyrrhic victory", rather than, say, Zama, which ended the Second Punic War). It is Pratt's rationale for these choices, expressed in clear, crisp prose, that makes this book so valuable for younger readers in need of a boost in their motivation to read history.

I loved this book as a teenager, and read it several times. But ongoing reflection, as well as teaching and graduate study in history, leads me to offer a more qualified recommendation. Pratt's core idea, that warfare can decisively affect the course of history, is quite sound. But his rather offhand view of war outside the Western world is not supportable. Pratt asserts that truly decisive battles influencing history occurred only in the West; elsewhere, victories changed nothing, and usually victors were simply absorbed by the societies they subjected.

This notion sadly reinforces an ethnocentric view that non-Western peoples somehow stand outside history, and that nothing ever really changes for them. Like many specialists in US and European history glancing at the whole world, Pratt proceeds from inattention and/or ignorance in generalizing, even stereotyping, on topics beyond his expertise. Such an assertion plainly overlooks many examples of the decisive character of warfare in Asia and Africa, with or without European participation---the conquests of Jinghiz Khan and his successors, Japan's conquest of Singapore in 1942, Ethiopia's 1896 triumph over Italy at Adowa, the effects of slaving wars in Africa, etc.

Pratt renders persuasive accounts of decisive Western battles in clear, lively prose. But misjudging the miltary experience of the rest of the world weakens his case, which through fuller research could be extended fruitfully to encompass the globe. The whole subject requires further examination; there's plenty of work for numerous scholars to tackle, and this should ultimately show that Pratt's thesis is indeed applicable on a worldwide scale. Ultimately, military historians have moved beyond the Alexandrian/Napoleonic conception of decisive battlefield victory to an appreciation of the total process of war in winning conflicts.

For more on the nonhistorical "nature" of non-Western societies and the processes which integrated them into a European-dominated global system, read Eric Wolf, "Europe and the People Without History" and Chinweizu, "The West and the Rest of Us." For Asians' and Africans' encounter with Western military technology, strategy and tactics, see Geoffrey Parker, "The Military Revolution" and Daniel Headrick, "The Tools of Empire." M. Saul & P. Royer, "West African Challenge To Empire" & J. Thornton, "Warfare in Atlantic Africa" show how African wars were actually fought.