Owen Books

What a charming, great read, especially for boys. Good descriptive setting, in the woods, every boys dream to have a fort in the woods. Enjoyable humor with the revenge on the bullies in the book. Simple yet charming text.

I read this book to my 8-year-old son and my 6-year-old daughter. both of them stared in rapture from the time i opened the book to when i said the last word. I personally also was awed at the fluency and the description with which Stephanie Greene wrote this book. I could see how my children could relate to the problems that Owen and his best friend faced. We have read the previous books, and all of us hope that another one is going to come out soon. When I finished reading my daughter frowned and said, "Awww I wish it weren't over already!" Thank you Ms. Greene, and Ms. Weston- for creating such a terrific chapter book for children of all ages.

This book is Great!! Because it`s about two kids that have a tree house in the forest. They take a nature book, a compass, a canteen, pepper flakes, and a hat.But two other kids are in their tree house and wreck it. So the two kids set traps to scare the other boys. I like it because I like Owen Foote books.

This book, Owen Foote, Frontiersman, was an enjoyable book because of the different events that Owen faced. These events allowed me to connect with some of the things that he encountered. Most young readers would be able to connect to having a friend like Joseph and the what Owen and Joseph encounters as frontiersman. The organization of the book was easy to follow and the sentences were easy to read and understand. There are a few pictures in black and white throughout the book, but these are not necessary but are handy for readers to connect with the event taking place. Young readers, boy or girls, that were interested in the outdoors would take a great liking to this book.

This book was FANTASTIC! I have three children aged 4-10. They all read it and loved it, including me. My nine year old son liked it the most. Stephanie Greene is and exeptional author and she writes so fluidly and perfectly for kids. I encourage her to write even more books because we have enjoyed this one and the others so much. Thanks!

Reviewed by Cayden (age 3-1/2), Max (age 19-months) Aures and Mom for Reader Views (4/08)

In "Owen's Marshmallow Chick" the main character Owen is a mouse who loves candy! On Easter morning he wakes up to a basket full of jelly beans, gumdrops, buttercream eggs, a chocolate bunny and a marshmallow chick. He proceeds to eat everything in the basket proclaiming each item to be his "favorite" as he is wolfing it down. When he gets to the marshmallow chick he hesitates and instead of eating it decides to play with it all day instead. At bedtime he carefully places the chick up on his toy shelf with all of his other favorite things.

Cayden: "He is jumping up and down because he is so happy he got all of that candy in his Easter basket from the Easter bunny!"
Max: "Chocolate!"

Cayden: "He dropped some of his candy on the floor."
Max: "Fall! Fall!"

Cayden: "Why is he eating everything? His tummy is going to hurt from all that sugar!"

Cayden: "He should have eaten some healthy food too and only had one candy from his basket every day."

Cayden: "Why is he playing with that chick? It is candy, not a toy."

Parent's comments:

"Owen's Marshmallow Chick" is a fun Easter board book. Max made a game out of pointing out the marshmallow chick on each page before we could continue reading the book. The text is very simple and has a lot of repetition which is perfect for a young child. The illustrations are very engaging and did a great job at conveying the emotions that Owen was feeling. This book would be a great surprise to stick in any young child's Easter basket!

This is the type of book that little ones will fall in love with. It is a simple and sweet story. The pictures are simple yet colorful enough to hold their attention. I highly recommend this book!

This is a very cute boardbook for small children. It is great for Easter but can be enjoyed all year.

Anyone who grew up finding marshmallow chicks in their Easter basket can relate to this story. When i was a kid they were yellow. Now these chicks come in all colors. I am a kindergarten teacher. My students loved this book. Now, one child takes it home with an Owen plush and a plastic egg with a marshmallow chick inside. They don't know what color their chick is until they get home. I provide a journal for them to document the color, write a story about their visit with Owen and draw a picture. They LOVE it!

This story is a perfect read for Easter or any time of the year! While my child loves to bite the head off of his marshmallow chicks, he could understand Owen's attachment to the treat. Owen projects his emotional attachment of his favorite blanket onto the marshmallow chick (that is the same color as his blanket)and doesn't gobble it up like his other holiday treats. This ending is absolutely priceless and we read this story at least once a week. Since there is no focus on spirituality or religion in this board book, it would be appropriate in a home of any faith (especially with those who are fans of marshmallow chicks!). Highly recommended!

I was knocked out by My Brother Michael and immediately turned to The Schooling of Claybird Catts for more of Janis Owens' literary enchantment. I wasn't disappointed. Like Faulkner revealing life's complexity through multiple viewpoints in The Sound and the Fury, this book returns to the mesmerizing events of her first novel, only this time as seen through the eyes of young Claybird. The reader comes away from this story again as if emerging from a dream or spell, with a deep feeling for the humanity of these characters and something of the tragedy, the comedy, the sheer mind-boggling dimensionality and the bittersweet mystery and wonder of human experience. Claybird Catts is a revelation and a delight. While so much literature coming out of the South these days seems self-indulgent, self-parodying, as memorable as a trip to Walmart, Janis Owens is the most engaging and deeply satisfying writer of Southern fiction I have come across in decades. Every word she writes rings true, including "a", "an" and "the."

Janis Owens goes to the heart of teenage vulnerabilities and self doubts in telling the Catts-Sims story from a young boy's point of view. That she does this is admirable, that she does it so well is truly miraculous. Claybird's painful, self-imposed estrangement from his family eventually heals, through their loving patience and his bittersweet maturation. More than just a coming of age tale, the gentle, honest portrayal of the heartaches and wonders of a dyslexic child provide insight and encouragement of this little understood reading difficulty. Ms. Owens' writing style is enchanted and her characters are so real the reader will know them personally, but perhaps that insight and encouragement is the ultimate compliment of this story.

Our club found this on our library booksite and fell in love. It's about Clayton Catts who is a young man who is dealing with his father's death and his unknown uncle. Book book is not tragic but funny,southern but not too southern, and most of all just touching. Men even liked this book and we never agree on that!!

Had no idea what to expect when I picked up this novel - and was hooked by the end of the first chapter. A marvelous tale, and told so well - Janis Owens is a wonderful fresh voice, another great Southern writer who has the kind of story-telling ability that draws the reader in without guile or the predictable plot twists and turns that have become the norm these days. Such a satisfying read, one that left me wanting more. A great book. Looking forward to reading her other books, and the next one she comes out with.

I've read all of this author's books and her writing has matured with this latest. It's my favorite of all three. Highly recommended. I loved it.

This is the autobiography of John Bunyon and his life. It is about his life before and after Christ and the grace of God upon his life. John wrote this classic while in prison. He went to prison for preaching the gospel.

I've been looking forward to reading this book for years ever since I read Bunyan's classis Pilgrim's Progress, I've wanted to read Grace Abounding to learn more about his incredible man of faith. I also recently read The Hidden Smile of God by John Piper who introduces the reader to three incredible men of God including Bunyan. So actually reading the journey of Bunyan himself in his own words was thrilled...but difficult at the same time. Bunyan struggled greatly with the concept of grace; he wrestled with understanding how God's grace could be sufficient to save a sinner as great as he. Grace Abounding is a peering into the soul of Bunyan as he goes through this deep personal battle wanting to believe that God was able to cleanse him of all unrighteousness, but constantly confronted with the holiness of the divine.

Just over half way through the book, Bunyan surrenders to the will of God in his life. He finally and fully grasp that the grace of God was truly sufficient. Then his heart is set aflame to share this grace with others and he becomes one of the great preachers and writers of all time, even though he goes on to spend a dozen years confined to prison for preaching contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Personally, it was interesting to see the cultural battle Bunyan faced at the time looking back from my vantage 500 years later to see that America is the beneficiary of his great struggles with the prevailing church of the day. As Bunyan sat in prison, he wrote about the great journey from a metal worker to a pastor of the gospel of Christ - in allegory form for the Pilgrim's Progress and in autobiographical form in Grace Abounding.

I can understand why many believe this book is a classic - the thoughts and insights that Bunyan has into the Word of God were profound and significant. It was amazing to read how Scripture flowed through his mind irrigating every thought so that his life bore much fruit. I wouldn't recommend the book to a younger reader, it is a difficult read, but well worth the effort.

Grace Abounding....is an excellent autobiography of John Bunyan and his spiritual struggle to obtain assurance of his salvation in light if his belief that he had committed the unpardonable sin. Recommended to anyone who may be facing the same struggle with this question. Each paragraph of the text is numbered and, thus, it is easy to put the book down at any point and pick it back up later without losing train of thought. Since the book was written over 300 years ago, it is interesting to have insight into the thoughts of a Christian who lived during that time and to compare with current Christian thinking.

A lot of us are familiar with John Bunyan as the author of The Pilgrim's Progress, whose influence in Christendom is second to the Bible. Bunyan was a preacher, a prolific writer and a shining saint for God. However when we read this book we find out that he was an atheist and infidel in his youth, enjoying sin and rebellious towards God. Inwardly he suffered from tormented nightmares of demons and judgment, but outwardly he went on pretty much as any other sinner, taking delight in sin and being the ringleader of mischief. Several times he nearly lost his life, and even though there were several close calls, still he did not turn to God. After his marriage, he participated in religious activities, went through the motions of attending church and generally lived as he pleased, each time successfully shrugging off pangs of guilt. One day, after church, while playing a sport, a voice seemed to call out to him from heaven to his soul, which said, "Wilt thou leave thy sins and go to heaven, or have thy sins and go to hell?" Bunyan was convinced it was the Lord Jesus looking down on him in displeasure. What follows details his sinking into despair, his desparate attempts at working his way into God's good graces, and his struggles with temptation and doubt. In a strange sort of way, it is comforting to read about Bunyan's struggles and identify with them because you can see how he turned out so greatly used by God. He rationalized, made excuses and tried every way to justify himself. Bunyan did not try to gloss over his motivations but gave an honest account of his struggles from avowed sinner, to religious hypocrite before he was finally converted. He describes in great detail his doubts and despair, his yearning to be converted to Jesus Christ, and then being assured of his salvation by reading the Bible and praying. Reading this book will help you realize how God's grace can abound and save even the most wretched of sinners and gives us abounding hope.

I could scarcely imagine why this book turned up first on my page of recommendations from amazon. I checked the reasoning, using the convenient little clicker, and found that Bunyan was expected to appeal to me because I had reviewed "Gosta Berling's Saga." That, my friends, is firm evidence that computers are still short on intuition.

Fascinated, however, I read the eight reviews of this fairly obscure title, and found that they were all written by sincere believers in the strict Calvinist theology preached by John Bunyan in his lifetime, according to which we are all "sinners in the hands of an angry God" whose judgment passes our apprehension. According the Calvin and Bunyan, our 'works' and even our eagerness to be 'saved' is of no fundamnetal importance; as one reviewer writes, "we do not choose God; God chooses us." That's not a system of belief I find appealing, though I ought to be consoled by the idea that God might 'choose' me whether I like it or not.

Bunyan was a cogent writer, though his style takes acclimatization. This biography is a major document of English history, as sure a way to get a feel for bookish English Puritanism as the masques of Henry Purcell are for the other side, the party of the theater-loving Cavaliers. As such, it belongs on the shelf with other profound self-exposures - Augustine's, Cellini's, Rousseau's - but don't expect the man to be any more attractive than his fanatical faith. He was truly "an angry sinner in hands he thought were God's."

Once again, Marvin Wilson shows his remarkable insight into the heart and soul of the "spiritually lost." Owen Fiddler is, indeed, a lost soul, as brought to painfully honest light in the pages of this book. All of Mr. Wilson's characters are thoughtfully well-developed, and represent people we can all relate to in our own lives (and ourselves, in some instances!). Without being preachy, Mr. Wilson teaches a valuable spiritual lesson through his story of Owen Fiddler and his family. This is a very well written, enjoyable, thought-provoking book.
-Deb Harris, Editor-in-Chief, All Things That Matter Press

Author Marvin D. Wilson presents the man Owen Fiddler as average. So average, in fact, that the "one unique aspect of him is his absolute average-ness." But, in fact, Owen Fiddler, in the book Owen Fiddler, represents the extremes of man. He reaches the lowest of lows, attains the highest of highs, and, like most of mankind, searches for redemption.

In Owen Fiddler, Marvin D. Wilson has written a modern-day religious allegory, a story of rejecting grace, walking God's path, and accepting responsibility for one's sins in order to be saved and returned to grace. Owen Fiddler's life is not necessarily one that all people can relate to, but his struggles are. Until he reaches the bottom, he is happy to wallow in his life, not caring how it affects others. When the worst that can happy to Owen Fiddler does indeed happen, the question becomes can the best that ever happened to him show Owen the way out of his misery? And will he follow?

Marvin D. Wilson describes himself as a "spiritualist with a zeal for sharing inspirations and insights ...." In Owen Fiddler, he shares a story of opposites, of good and evil, of rejecting God and accepting grace ... and he does it with zeal.

Owen Fiddler is a most entertaining read. Best of all, author Wilson delivers spiritual truths usually found only in self-help books. Everyone can identify with dysfunctional Owen - he's a part of us that's buried beneath our good side. As I read his misadventures, I found myself thinking how easy it is for anyone to stray off their life paths because of fear and ego. This book should be made into a movie - the message is that empowering! Five stars!

Marvin Wilson is a "tell it like it is" writer. Owen, the main character in the book, thinks the world is against him; he is the victim of life, circumstance, government, the environment and just about everything else. He takes no responsibility for his actions or his life. We all have an Owen in us. But Mr. Wilson shows us all is not lost, there is hope. Winner of an AVATAR AWARD for SPIRITUAL EXCELLENCE, you owe it to yourself to read this book, "before" your tab must be paid.

Owen Fiddler was an engaging and entertaining read. While Owen is definitely a character one may easily despise, he is also one that readers can connect with. He shows the selfishness that can overtake the human spirit in times of trouble, but his story also reveals a light at the end of the tunnel.

I would recommend this book to anyone who has lived through, or is going through, things in their life that they feel are beyond their own control. It was a great read!

"Darrin Owens is a wise mystic living in a young man's body. His book is an excellent guide for the next generation of modern-day prophets."

~ Echo Bodine
Author of Echoes of the Soul and The Gift


"Darrin Owens has tapped into the mystic stream, an unbroken chain of wisdom since earliest times. His fascinating book is a glowing example that spirituality is a natural aspect of the human condition, and why we should honor it if we are to achieve our fullest potential."

~ Larry Dossey, MD
Author of The Extraordinary Healing Power of Ordinary Things


"Darrin Owens has distilled a wealth of experience onto the pages of this book. I highly recommend Reader of Hearts to those wanting to tap into a deeper understanding of their psychic nature."

~ Susan Taylor, PH.D.
Author of The Vital Energy Program &
and Producer of The Healing Power of Meditation CD Series


"Astral, Magical and Miracle - Darrin Owens is a force of psychic talent and it shows in this wonderful book of story and spiritual exercises."

~ Jane Olivor
Academy Award Nominated Recording Artist


"Informative and practical, this book is full of inspiration and the steps for helping us in all facets of life. Reader of Hearts is a helpful guide for all those walking the path of love, forgiveness and the Divine truth."

~ Gary Quinn
Author of May The Angels Be With You and Living in the Spiritual Zone


"In Reader of Hearts Darrin Owens extends a personal invitation to all to explore, embrace, and live a spirit guided life. This manual is witty, user friendly, and grounded in common sense. Enjoy it!"

~ Sonia Choquette, Ph.D.
Author of Trust Your Vibes, Your Hearts Desire and Diary of A Psychic


"Hang onto your seat and get ready for a Mystical Joy Ride. With humor and humility, and practical everyday advice, Darrin Owens will take you into the soul of the mystical experience."

~ Denise Linn
Author of Sacred Space

In the many years of my personal spiritual path I have read many books and learned a great deal. This book was written from a place honesty and spirit. For those of you who are intuitives like myself, you will find comfort and more validation of your path. Anyone can gain from these insights, experiences, and exercises. This book was written with down to earth humor and complete realness. This was my birthday present to myself this year. I don't suggest, however, waiting for your next special occasion. Two thumbs up to Darrin

Wow. This book felt like an authentic and sincere gift from Darrin Owen's heart directly into my own...I was fortunate enough to see Darrin speak several times while he was on tour in San Francisco and there is no denying that the holy spirit is working through this wonderful man in special ways!! His style is entertaining and uplifting, his readings were spot on, and I walked away with tons of spiritual wisdom I was able to directly apply to my life.

Buy the book....and google his website so you can see when/if he is going to be in speaking in your area! He's fabulous and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Go check out his work and decide for yourself. You won't be sorry.

I haven't ever read a spiritual book that delivered itself with such candor. This book gives you a good understanding on how to look towards a more fulfilled life, and makes you want to learn more. I have read the book cover to cover many times and often find myself looking over different chapters so that I can gain a better perspective on life's ups and downs.

What to do while waiting on the path?
Darrin clearly defines stages of the psychic journey. He also demonstrates where one can obtain the fuel to accomplish the journey remaining. "In other words,divine guidance keeps you manifesting the destiny that is all your own."
The cover design caught my attention. The content spoke wisely to my heart.
With eternity as the background, why should we feel rushed.

Highly recommended for anyone wanting to troubleshoot and take care of their Mac themselves. It covers in detail the set up, administration and daily care and feeding of OSX.

If you are studying for the ACHDS exam, this book is all you need. I just got back from taking my exam and received a 96% score. Everything from this book with prepare you for the exam. I would of gotten a perfect score but I think my nerves got in the way.

Get this book, you won't regret it.

The book is very well written with clear explanations, and detailed lessons. Because you read about it and then go through an excersize, you retain the information better. I would recommend this book because it really does almost feel like you are in a class when you are reading.

I needed this book to study for my Apple Certs, and found it to be very concise and all of the sections were explained well. It was more of a review for me, but once in a while, I found a tidbit of information that I did not know. I was kind of exciting finding little "secrets" about an OS that I have been working with and developing on for years.

I recommend this book if you are looking to study on your own or if you just need, or want, more insight into the way Mac OS X works. The information is fairly complete and when it is not exhaustive, I found that the authors had placed direct URLs to many of the great resource web sites.

If it is Apple certification you want, you can choose to use the web based Applecare technician training or this book. To do a great job on your cert tests, I recommend both. The book allows you to learn and study when you are not in front of a screen. Completely web-based programs require me to print out a lot, and I found I did not have to with the book in hand.

Glyer's book provides valuable insight for fans and scholars of The Inklings collective works. She has a fresh slant on material that most Tolkien and Lewis readers have seen in other formats. Her agenda, though, presents the idea of "influence" in a changing light. I think that she opens doors of critcical opportunity that will allow much more fruitful sorts of investigations of Lewis, Tolkien, and William's work.

The Company They Keep is scholarly writing at it's best. I used it with gifted high schoolers with excellent results. The students became excited about how Glyer did such extensive research and then wrote about it in such an interesting and readable way.

The fantasy literature of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkein is so imaginative and idiosyncratic that one accepts that they wrote such lasting works somewhat obstinately and mainly privately almost as a hobby with little hope they would ever be published, much less popular. The picture of J. R. Rowling writing the beginnings of the first Harry Potter book sitting along at a table in an English shop comes to mind with this image of the earlier authors. Lewis and Tolkein are known to be good friends as well as professional colleagues at Oxford University. But as professor of English at Azusa Pacific U. in California Glyer puts forward, Lewis and Tolkein were part of a circle of academics and writers who had a large, discernible, and often documented influence on their works. From diaries, memoirs, letters, and other sources, Glyer finds that this influence is most evident with Tolkein. This circle which acquired the name "The Inklings," "modeled the behavior of poets and storytellers, provided feedback on his drafts, helped him develop his own critical faculties, recommended reading material that supported and shaped his imagination, and suggested that certain pieces be started, reworked, completed, or submitted for publication." Glyer continues, "It is no small matter that all of this early influence took place within a highly interactive group setting." What the author says with respect to Tolkein applies as well to Lewis, though not quite so overtly recognizably. In their turn, Tolkein and Lewis were active participants in the group offering the same support and suggestions to its other members. Shortly after arriving at Oxford as a student, Tolkein founded the literary society named the "Apolausticks."

In an appendix by a David Bratman, relevant background on 17 members of the Inklings besides Tolkein and Lewis is given. Most became university professors of English or medieval literature or of language studies, with most doing scholarly writings on literary criticism. This work of literary criticism and author biography is obviously timely given the current interest in these authors as evidenced by widely-popular movies made from books of theirs.

This book shows scholarly intellect, hard work, dedication, and insightful thought that I have only achieved in lofty dreams. Diana Glyer presents interesting, insiteful, and inspiring information about the Inklings that you will not find anywhere else. I have never read a book that so skillfully puts scholarship in such an accessable read. For anyone who is a fan of the Inklings, Lewis, Tolkien, Williams, or anyone remotely related to these men do yourself a favor and read this book.

Glyer has put together an incredibly researched study of the relationships of "The Inklings," the social gathering that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien among others. "The Company They Keep" is not a casual read for the Narnia fan; it is a scholarly exposition of the influence that the Inklings had upon one another and the way that that influence appears in their works.

Using a formula for determining influence created by another scholar, Karen Lefevre, Glyer analyzes the way the Inklings served as Resonators (encouraging voices), Opponents (thoughtful critics), Editors, and Collaborators (project teammates) for one another. She then adds her own fifth category, that they were Referents who wrote about one another and promoted one another's books to publishers and the public. Ultimately, Glyer rejects what Inkling scholarship heretofore has asserted: that the Inklings by their own admission did not largely influence each other. Glyer argues that such claims were aimed at acknowledging their independent credibility, but that in fact they had significant roles in shaping one another's works.

So the book is important on two levels. It contributes notably to biographical scholarship on the Inklings. But is also makes thoughtful contributions to literary criticism, which traces and debates the nature of influence. Glyer is immersed in the field and defends her thesis well.

It's a great book; not a "fun" read, but definitely a fascinating one for the serious reader.

James W. Miller is the author of God Scent: A Devotional

Tobias is an upscale veterinarian just entering middle age. For his 41st birthday, he elects to treat himself to an evening at the Club. As a Dominant, Tobias can meet with a submissive companion, in a relaxed atmosphere similar to the traditional British upper class men's club. At the very least, he'll enjoy a fine dinner and excellent wine. Bradford, owner of the club and a former mentor of Tobias, introduces him to Noah, a younger submissive. Noah's need is to learn trust in submission.

Tobias teaches Noah that life means growth, and change, even in one's desires and one's limits; what was good for an individual two years ago may not even work now, because the individual matures. Boundaries stretch with growth, and the work of a trained Dominant such as Tobias is to help the sub discover his boundaries, as well as to fulfill the Dom's own needs. That is a lesson Noah has to discover just as much as he must learn the capacity to trust. Tobias begins to open an entirely new aspect of the D/s lifestyle to Noah, who has been abused by Dominants in the past and is amazed when Tobias opens portions of his life experience to his sub. Noah must learn that control involves giving his emotions to his Master, not just submitting to unnecessary pain.

Deviations: Submission is a long, engrossing story of two men coming to terms with their very different interests and learning to enmesh their separate goals. Chris Owen and Jody Payne are very skillful at illuminating the gay D/s lifestyle, and this story is a learning experience as well as an intriguing tale with well-delineated protagonists.

Annie
reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

I loved all 4 of these books and thought they were well written, not to mention I learned so much from them! Chris you are so good keep those books coming!!

MY FAVORITE BOOK IS BAREBACK BY CHRIS OWEN. AFTER I READ BAREBACK I BEGAN READING ALL OF HIS BOOKS. WITH THE HELP OF JODI PAYNE HE HAS PROVIDED READERS WITH A VERY WELL WRITTEN BOOK. IT INVOLVES TOBIAS A DOM WHO HAS BEEN AWAY FROM THE SCENE FOR SOME MONTHS BECAUSE OF HIS HEARTBREAK OVER HIS INVOLVEMENT WITH HIS THEN SUB PHANTOM. ON HIS 41ST BIRTHDAY HE DECEIDED TO GO BACK TO THE S&M CLUB WHERE HE WAS A MEMBER. THE OWNER WAS A CLOSE FRIEND AND THRILLED TO SEE HIM AGAIN. EVERYONE STARED AT TOBIAS AS HE WAS A WELL KNOW AND WELL LIKED DOM. EVEN HIS OLD LOVER AND SUB. PHAN STILL LOVED HIM. NOT IN LOVE WITH HIM BUT LOVED HIM. TOBIAS FELT THE SAME TOWARD PHAN. BRADFORD INTRODUCED TOBIAS TO NOAH, A GOOD LOOKING MAN IN HIS LATE 20'S. BRADFORD TOLD THEM HE THOUGHT THEY WOULD BE GOOD TOGETHER AND LEFT THEM ALONE. NOAH HAD BEEN WITH A FEW MASTERS BUT THEY NEVER SEEMED TO WORK OUT. HE DEFINITLY WAS NOT INTO DEEP PAIN AND CAGES SCARED HIM. IT WAS UP TO TOBIAS TO FIND OUT WHY. HE NOTICED NOAH HAD A SCAR ON HIS SHOULDER AND DECEIDED TO ASK HIM ABOUT IT LATER ON. YOU'LL ENJOY WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TOBIAS DISCOVERS NOAH'S FIRST DOM IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TORMENT HE FEELS. AFTER STUDYING AND LISTENING TO NOAH HE SAID HE'D TRAIN HIM. NOW ALL NOAH HAD TO DO WAS SIGN A CONTRACT. THROUGH TIME NOAH AND TOBIAS FALL IN LOVE. BECAUSE OF THE CLOSENESS BETWEEN TOBIAS AND PHAN NOAH FEELS THREATENED. HE CALLED PHAN AND ASKED IF THEY COULD MEET. WITHOUT HIS KNOWLEDGE PHAN CALLED TOBIAS TELLING HIM ABOUT NOAH ASKING HIM OUT FOR LUNCH. LATER WHEN NOAH FOUND OUT HE BECAME UPSET. NOAH AND PHAN ENDED UP LIKING EACH OTHER. NOW REMEMBER I SAID LIKED NOT LOVED. I JUST GAVE YOU A SLIGHT INDICATION ABOUT THE CONTENTS OF THIS BOOK. THERE IS SO MANY EXCITING INCIDENTS INSIDE OF THIS MARVELOUS BOOK. I THINK DEVIATIONS: SUBMISSION BY CHRIS OWEN & JODIE PAYNE IS ONE HECK OF A BOOK! AFTER YOU READ THE FIRST IN THIS SERIES YOU'LL FIND YOURSELF BUYING THE SECOND BOOK DEVIATIONS: DOMINATION. YOU'LL ALSO DISCOVER THE SECOND BOOK IS AS ENTERTAINING IF NOT MORE SO THAN THE FIRST. NOW FOR A THIRD BOOK. HUM, NOW THERE'S A GOOD IDEA.

I really enjoy M/M erotica and romance. But, I wasn't so sure about gay BDSM. This book totally changed my mind! The characters are engaging, the story is realistic and the sex is hot. But, there is also a deeply felt relationship beginning between Tobias and Noah that makes the reader want more. The BDSM aspects can be a little uncomfortable to someone who isn't involved in that (like me), but no more uncomfortable than stories that have elements of rape, danger or abuse to propel a plot. I devoured this book, and the sequel "Deviations: Dominance" is a couple of days. If you are a fan of gay romance, do yourself a favor and try this. The third book, Deviations: Discipline has been released by Torquere and should be available soon from Amazon.

I really enjoy M/M erotica and romance. But, I wasn't so sure about gay BDSM. This book totally changed my mind! The characters are engaging, the story is realistic and the sex is hot. But, there is also a deeply felt relationship beginning between Tobias and Noah that makes the reader want more. The BDSM aspects can be a little uncomfortable to someone who isn't involved in that (like me), but no more uncomfortable than stories that have elements of rape, danger or abuse to propel a plot. I devoured this book, and the sequel "Deviations: Dominance" is a couple of days. If you are a fan of gay romance, do yourself a favor and try this.

It has been an great pleasure to read this book. I like the charters and the story

............No, I'm not.)----(Learn about the author's "take" on this review title at the three stars {***}, below).

((Here is my approach to obtaining/reading/reviewing Gay romance tales in book form (you could see it as seeking the holy grail of that genre, or as looking for the "Addictive Read"). Selection of read materials is based mainly on purchase of new stories by favorite authors or on comments/reviews by you in these on-line "Book" pages. Re the latter, sometimes I feel correctly steered by you (the "Keepers" filling my shelves), other times mislead---occasionally badly (the "Throwaways"). Rarely, I come across the "Addictive"---- those I can reread at least monthly (see below starred *** area for a list......and for some "near-Addictive" as well). For some reads, I'll share comments with you, as follows below. Thanks for sticking with me so far.))

{{WARNING!! This Book May Be ADDICTIVE To Your Health!!}}

For me, a gay romance set in the diplomatic corps was very much a new experience---one of enjoyment, one of learning. Thank you, Zahra Owens, for inviting us along into this new world you created for us---one to which you've given a timely spin, in several instances relating it to current day events. And kudos to Dreamspinner Press for giving us one of the most truly elegant and memorable book covers I can recall running across. Thanks also, guys, for providing a lesser number of typographical errors than have many similar publishing houses out there.

Now (and in no particular order) some other "pluses" that stand out and for which I'm thankful to Zahra Owens:

- Setting up a marvelous structuring of the book. It is noteworthy that her "transitionings" from one point to the next in the life and the relationship of her two main characters are beautifully and interestingly written. This makes following where she is taking us so easily done......creating great anticipation along the way.

- Giving us Jack's and Lucas's initial and very real seeming physical encounter (in a mens room, interestingly), as one so intense that it almost jumps off the page. Oh, and for creating a beautifully......beautifully done love making scene in a shower (it certainly made this reader want to get wet).

- Providing a big, mirthful hoot to our enjoyment by imaginatively adding some new pages to the reading world's "How-to" book on Sushi dining.

- Creating great romantic sex scenes---highlighted by a lovingly done and sweetly detailed man-on-man, first anal love making scene (Wow!!) which is written from the point of view of a character who has known only heterosexual intercourse. Owens is also especially good at giving us a multitude of "touchy-feely" moments, and creating in our minds a picture of lyrical love making. This means including the "little things" that you'd expect to occur in the foreplay phase of making love: the touches, the kisses, the disrobing and tossing around of garments, the little whispers of endearment---they're all wonderfully there. Then she goes on to compellingly build up to the very deepest physical aspects of "making love."

- Allowing us to discover that she's created a bit of magic for her couple by giving them their own little "Verbal Connection" {***}, simple phrases involving apologizing, which will carry them through their entire relationship. No, all you readers out there, I won't go on to give this away---find out yourselves. Suffice it to say, it's a sweet and simple device which prompts me to ask: how many authors think to give their couples a special "VC"? Thank you, Zahra, for being that type of person.

- Devising a life threatening crisis into which she immediately pulls us, while at the same time inventively "back-forthing" us between the lead male in trouble and his anxiously aware and waiting lover. It would be near perfect, as written, to serve as a film script.

- Wonderfully pulling off, later in the book, a "reintroduction to our couple" in their new surroundings. It's very beautifully, smartly and "up-to-dately" handled. Bravo! (Although, for suspense purposes, I do wish she'd used a different job title in Liz's description of the person Lucas was going to be meeting/escorting).

- Last, but far from.......well, you know: coming up with some notably refreshing usage of the romance language (e.g., "........feel his breath ghosting across his face."). And there are others.

In closing this review, I'll admit planning to include some grousing about a few minor grammatical problems---most of which I now see are likely due to differences between U.S. and our author's European upbringing, education and language usage. Now I find doing so not to be necessary. Far, far more important than dwelling on those things is celebrating the real Joy this woman's story brings to us.......for Joy, indeed, is here and really deserves to be spelled with that capital "J." Even more, though, there is the feeling of HOPE she gives to us.......hope in the perserverance of our happiness.

PS--***Other "Addictive" reads: "Caught Running" (Madeleine Urban and Abigail Roux) (Caught Running) // "Freshman Pledge: The Magic of Love" (Larry Coles) (Freshman Pledge: The Magic of Love) // "Bareback" (Chris Owen) (Bareback). Some "near-Addictives: "Brokeback Mountain" (Annie Proulx) // "The Dreyfus Affair" (Peter Lefcourt) (The Dreyfus Affair: A Love Story) // "The Carnivorous Lamb" (Agustin Gomez-Arcos) (The Carnivorous Lamb (Little Sister's Classics)) // "Afterlife" (Paul Monette) // "Cowboy Up" (short stories edited by Rob Knight)

****

DIPLOMACY is a story about Jack, an American ambassador, and Lucas, a younger European diplomat. Jack and Lucas meet at a political event in Belgium, and they're instantly attracted to each other. However, Jack is a married man of 15 years and Lucas is engaged to a beautiful young woman. They can't deny their explosive chemistry, but can they risk giving in to their feelings? When their wives go away together for a weekend sightseeing trip, the men decide to explore their attraction. Their passion for each other is undeniable, but is it worth risking their careers and relationships, and hurting the ones that are dear to them?

This is a very adult love story that involves many adult themes, including infidelity, politics, long-term relationships, and parenting. There's plenty of deception, and even a bit of danger.

I absolutely cannot read M/F stories that involve cheating, but for some inexplicable reason in a M/M romance I don't mind the men cheating on their wives.

This is a very entertaining story, and the romance is very real. The angst is realistic and appropriate, not contrived for the sake of drama. The sex is pretty hot, though it is not the focus of the story. DIPLOMACY is a romance, not erotica. I don't care much for politics, so I found the political aspects a bit dry. Fortunately, though, the author focuses more on the relationships in this story than on politics and policy. In quite a few places the book feels very much like the Nicole Kidman movie THE INTERPRETER, and there's even a nod to that movie in the book.

If you like a serious, more grown-up feel to your M/M romance, this is a great read.

............No, I'm not). (Learn about the author's "take" on this review title at the three stars {***}, below).

((Here is my approach to obtaining/reading/reviewing Gay romance tales in book form (you could see it as seeking the holy grail of that genre, or as looking for the "Addictive Read"). Selection of read materials is based mainly on purchase of new stories by favorite authors or on comments/reviews by you in these on-line "Book" pages. Re the latter, sometimes I feel correctly steered by you (the "Keepers" filling my shelves), other times mislead---occasionally badly (the "Throwaways"). Rarely, I come across the "Addictive"---- those I can reread at least monthly (see below starred *** area for a list......and for some "near-Addictive" as well). For some reads, I'll share comments with you, as follows below. Thanks for sticking with me so far.))

{{WARNING!! This Book May Be ADDICTIVE To Your Health!!}}

For me, a gay romance set in the diplomatic corps was very much a new experience---one of enjoyment, one of learning. Thank you, Zahra Owens, for inviting us along into this new world you created for us---one to which you've given a timely spin, in several instances relating it to current day events. And kudos to Dreamspinner Press for giving us one of the most truly elegant and memorable book covers I can recall running across. Thanks also, guys, for providing a lesser number of typographical errors than have many similar publishing houses out there.

Now (and in no particular order) some other "standout pluses" for which I'm thankful to Zahra Owens:

- Setting up a marvelous structuring of the book. In this regard it should be noted that her "transitionings" from one point to the next in the life and the relationship of her two main characters are beautifully---but even more importantly---interestingly done. This makes following where she is taking us so easily done......creating great anticipation along the way.

- Giving us Jack's and Lucas's initial, very real and physical (mens room) encounter, one so intense that it almost jumps off the page. Oh, and for creating a beautifully......beautifully done love making scene in a shower (it certainly made this reader want to get wet).

- Providing a big hoot to our enjoyment by imaginatively adding some new pages to the reading world's "How-to" book on Sushi dining.

- Besides all the great sex---highlighted by a lovingly done and sweetly detailed man-on-man, first anal love making scene (Wow!!), written from the point of view of one having known only heterosexual intercourse---(Owens is especially good at) giving us a multitude of "touchy-feely" moments, and creating in our minds a picture of "romantic" love making. This means not leaving out the "little things" that you'd expect to occur in the foreplay phase of making love: the touches, the kisses, the disrobing and tossing around of garments, the little whispers of endearment---they're all wonderfully there. Then she goes on to compellingly build up to the very deepest physical aspects of "making love."

- Allowing us to discover that she's created a bit of magic for her couple by giving them their own little "Verbal Connection" {***}, simple phrases involving apologizing, which will carry them through their entire relationship. No, readers, I won't go on to give this all away---find out yourselves. Suffice it to say, it's a sweet and simple device which prompts me to ask: how many authors think to give their couples a special "VC"? Thank you, Zahra, for being that type of person.

- Devising a life threatening crisis into which she immediately pulls us, while at the same time inventively "back-forthing" us between the lead male in trouble and his anxiously aware and waiting lover. It would be near perfect, as written, to serve as a film script.

- Wonderfully pulling off, later in the book, a "reintroduction to our couple" in their new surroundings. It's very beautifully, smartly and "up-to-dately" handled. Bravo! (Although, for suspense purposes, I do wish she'd used a different job title in Liz's description of the person Lucas was going to be meeting/escorting).

- Last, but far from.......well, you know: coming up with some notably refreshing usage of the romance language (e.g., "........feel his breath ghosting across his face."). And there are others.

In closing this review, I'll admit planning to include some grousing about a few minor grammatical problems---most of which I now see are likely due to differences between U.S. and European upbringing, education and language usage. Now I find that not to be so necessary. Far, far more important than dwelling on those things is celebrating the real Joy this woman's story brings to us.......for it is here and really deserves to be spelled with that capital "J." Even more, though, there is HOPE.......hope in the perserverance of our happiness.

PS--***Other "Addictive" reads: "Caught Running" (Madeleine Urban and Abigail Roux) (Caught Running) // "Freshman Pledge: The Magic of Love" (Larry Coles) (Freshman Pledge: The Magic of Love) // "Bareback" (Chris Owen) (Bareback). Some "near-Addictives: "Brokeback Mountain" (Annie Proulx) // "The Dreyfus Affair" (Peter Lefcourt) (The Dreyfus Affair: A Love Story) // "The Carnivorous Lamb" (Agustin Gomez-Arcos) (The Carnivorous Lamb (Little Sister's Classics)) // "Afterlife" (Paul Monette) // "Cowboy Up" (short stories edited by Rob Knight)

****

Jack Christenson is living the perfect life with the perfect wife. He has recently been appointed the youngest Ambassador for the United States in Belgium. The evening following a State Banquet there is a reception for US citizens to meet the President and the Ambassador and it is there that Jack meets Lucas Carlton, a junior Information Officer with the British Consulate and his fiancée, Lucy Marsh. One look into Luke's eyes awakens feelings that Jack, who is deep in the closet, thought he had buried over 20 years ago.

Things heat up quickly and Luke and Jack go away for a very passionate weekend together when their women are on a weekend shopping trip, and they continue the relationship after they return home. They realize that they are playing a very risky game and Jack knows that the slightest hint of scandal could result in him being recalled as Ambassador and most likely his marriage will be over. For Luke it will mean the end of his career in the Foreign Service if his sexual orientation and affair with the Ambassador were revealed. Will Jack and Luke have the courage to stay together and take the heat and all the negative consequences that their affair will have on their careers and their personal lives? You will have to read the book to find out.

Diplomacy has everything - danger, intrigue, high stakes and a whole lot of sex as Jack and Luke can't keep their attraction under wraps. The sex is erotic, sensuous, hot, combustible and above all, loving. Zahra Owens paints a picture of two wonderful men whose love has to withstand a kidnapping, the glare of living in the spotlight, the tabloids and betrayal. At times the story is bittersweet as they separate but try to find a way back together.

This is Ms Owens' first novel and what a treat it was for me read it. The two main characters are believable and three dimensional and the supporting characters add breadth to a very complicated plot. Although English is not her first language the author has done a great job of mastering it, and her prose has a European flavour which only adds to the dialogue. This is a wonderful novel with lots of plot twists and turns and the right amount of conflict to make it extremely interesting. Based on this story I'm confident Ms. Owens has a long career as a writer ahead of her and I highly recommend this book.